Voting system

Abstract

To improve services for users at publicly operated sports facilities. [Solution] The first voting terminal issues a command ticket 2 when accepting a vote for public sports. The second voting terminal, when accepting a vote for public sports, accepts the insertion of a command ticket 2 and rewards the user who inserted the command ticket 2. The management device 10 collects the operation history of the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... Based on the operation history, the management device 10 determines which voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... will be operated as the first voting terminal and which will be operated as the second voting terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a voting system.

Background Art

[0002] In public competitions such as horse racing, motorcycle racing, boat racing, and auto racing, services that provide benefits to visitors may be offered to improve sales. For example, in a point-giving service, points are given to users who visit a public competition venue and meet certain conditions.

[0003] As a technology related to public competition services, for example, a voting device has been proposed that accepts responses to questionnaires, determines the face value of gift vouchers according to the responses, and issues gift vouchers with the determined face value. Also, as a technology related to services, for example, a server system has been proposed that provides technology for realizing new interests in realizing content such as games with the real space as a playing field.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the point-giving service, it takes time to register personal information to provide benefits. Also, in the point-giving service, since users who visit a public competition venue less frequently have fewer opportunities to receive points, the benefits received by new users are reduced.

[0006] In one aspect, the present case aims to improve services for users at public competition venues. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One proposal provides a voting system comprising multiple voting terminals and a management device. The multiple voting terminals include a first voting terminal that issues instruction tickets when accepting votes for public sports betting, and a second voting terminal that, when accepting votes for public sports betting, accepts the insertion of an instruction ticket and awards a reward to the user who inserted the instruction ticket. The management device collects the operational history of the multiple voting terminals and, based on the operational history, determines which voting terminals will be operated as the first voting terminal and which will be operated as the second voting terminal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one embodiment, it is possible to improve services for users at public sports venues. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a voting system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of a voting system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 3] This diagram shows an example of the hardware configuration of a management PC. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of a voting terminal. [Figure 5] This block diagram shows examples of the functions of the management PC and voting terminal. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of an electronic journal. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of fund aggregation information. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of vote counting information by time period. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of vote counting information by voting method. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of operational status information. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of instruction content data. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing an example of an instruction ticket. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing an example of a service ticket. [Figure 14] This is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of the display screen of an instruction ticket issuing terminal. [Figure 15] This is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the display screen of an instruction ticket issuing terminal. [Figure 16] This is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of the display screen of an instruction ticket receiving terminal. [Figure 17] This is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the display screen of an instruction ticket receiving terminal. [Figure 18] This is a diagram (part 3) showing an example of the display screen of an instruction ticket receiving terminal. [Figure 19] This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for aggregation processing. [Figure 20] This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for instruction setting processing. [Figure 21] This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for vote reception processing by an instruction ticket issuing terminal. [Figure 22] This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for vote reception processing by an instruction ticket receiving terminal.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that multiple embodiments can be combined and implemented within a non - conflicting range. 〔First Embodiment〕 First, the first embodiment will be described.

[0011] Figure 1 shows an example of a voting system according to the first embodiment. The voting system of the first embodiment provides benefits to users who visit public sports venues such as horse racing, bicycle racing, boat racing, and auto racing. The voting system of the first embodiment includes voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... and a management device 10. The voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... and the management device 10 are each connected so as to be accessible via a network. The network to which the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... and the management device 10 are connected may be a wired network or a wireless network.

[0012] Voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... are devices installed at public sports venues that accept votes for public sports. When the voting details are entered using mark cards, etc., and the voting amount is deposited, voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... accept the vote based on the entered voting details. Voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... notify the host server that manages voting for public sports of the received votes.

[0013] The management device 10 is a computer that manages the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... The management device 10 has a processing unit 11. The processing unit 11 can control the management device 10 and execute the required processing. The processing unit 11 is, for example, a processor or arithmetic circuit in the management device 10.

[0014] The processing unit 11 collects the operational history of the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... The operational history of the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... records the time of receipt of each vote, the content of the vote, the payment method, etc. The operational history of the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... is, for example, an electronic journal issued by the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ...

[0015] The processing unit 11 determines, based on the operational history, which voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... will be operated as the first voting terminal and which will be operated as the second voting terminal. For example, the processing unit 11 determines, based on the amount of votes received by each voting terminal 1a, 1b, ..., which voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... will be operated as the first voting terminal and which will be operated as the second voting terminal. The processing unit 11 may also determine that two or more voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... will be operated as the first voting terminal, or that two or more voting terminals will be operated as the second voting terminal.

[0016] As an example, the processing unit 11 aggregates the operational history and calculates the total amount of votes received the previous day by each voting terminal 1a, 1b, ... The processing unit 11 decides to operate the voting terminal with the highest total amount of votes as the first voting terminal, and the voting terminal with the lowest total amount of votes as the second voting terminal. In the following, it will be assumed that the processing unit 11 has decided to operate voting terminal 1a as the first voting terminal and voting terminal 1b as the second voting terminal.

[0017] The voting terminal 1a, operating as the first voting terminal, issues an instruction ticket 2 when accepting votes for public sports betting. The instruction ticket 2 is a ticket that has been set to instruct the voter to cast a vote at the second voting terminal. For example, the voting terminal 1a prints the instruction ticket 2 on paper for printing voting tickets using a voting ticket processing unit that prints and reads voting tickets.

[0018] When the voting terminal 1b, which operates as a second voting terminal, accepts a vote for public sports betting, it grants a reward to the user who inserted the instruction ticket 2. For example, the voting terminal 1b reads information from the inserted instruction ticket 2 using the voting ticket processing unit. Then, when the voting terminal 1b confirms that the instruction ticket 2 is set to a command to vote at the voting terminal 1b, it uses the voting ticket processing unit to print and dispense a service ticket of the type set on the instruction ticket 2.

[0019] According to the first embodiment, the first voting terminal issues a command ticket 2 when accepting a vote for public sports. When the second voting terminal accepts a vote for public sports, it accepts the insertion of the command ticket 2 and provides a reward to the user who inserted the command ticket 2. The management device 10 collects the operating history of the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... Based on the operating history, the management device 10 determines which voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... will be operated as the first voting terminal and which will be operated as the second voting terminal.

[0020] As a result, the voting system of the first embodiment can provide an event in which users can earn rewards by voting using a second voting terminal in accordance with the instruction ticket 2. Such an event using the instruction ticket 2 can also improve the satisfaction of infrequent users. Therefore, the voting system of the first embodiment can improve services for users at public sports venues.

[0021] Furthermore, the management device 10 determines, based on the amount of votes received by each voting terminal 1a, 1b, ..., which voting terminal will be operated as the first voting terminal and which will be operated as the second voting terminal. As a result, the voting system of the first embodiment can encourage users to vote at voting terminals with low usage, thereby alleviating congestion.

[0022] Furthermore, the management device 10 may notify the first voting terminal of the frequency of issuing the instruction ticket 2, and the first voting terminal may decide whether or not to issue an instruction ticket 2 according to the frequency of issuance when accepting votes for public sports. In this way, the voting system of the first embodiment can appropriately control the number of times rewards are given to the user by the instruction ticket 2.

[0023] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment provides an event using instruction tickets that encourage users visiting a horse racing stadium to vote at a designated voting terminal.

[0024] Figure 2 shows an example of a voting system according to the second embodiment. The voting system of the second embodiment includes a management PC (Personal Computer) 100, voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ..., and a host server 300. The management PC 100 and voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... are installed in the stadium 50, which is the venue for horse racing. The management PC 100 and voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... are connected to a network 30. Network 30 is, for example, the LAN (Local Area Network) of the stadium 50. Network 30 is also connected to the host server 300 via network 40. Network 40 is a wide-area network such as the Internet.

[0025] The management PC 100 is a computer operated by staff at Stadium 50. The management PC 100 collects electronic journals from voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... that record the status of vote acceptance processing. From the collected electronic journals, the management PC 100 compiles the voting amounts for each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, ... Based on the past compilation results of voting amounts, etc. (for example, the compilation results of voting amounts, etc. from the previous day), the management PC 100 determines which terminals will issue instruction tickets and which will receive instruction tickets from voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ...

[0026] Voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... are terminals that accept bets on horse racing. Voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... accept bets via mark cards, QR (Quick Response) codes (registered trademark), manual input on a touch panel, etc. Voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... accept bet amounts included in the bets via cash deposit or payment from a cashless account. Voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... accept bets based on the entered bets and notify the host server 300 of the accepted bets.

[0027] A voting terminal designated as a command ticket issuing terminal by the management PC 100 (for example, voting terminal 200-1) issues a command ticket when accepting a vote. For example, when voting terminal 200-1 accepts a vote, it displays a screen asking whether or not the user will participate in an event using a command ticket. If voting terminal 200-1 accepts the user's selection to participate in an event using a command ticket, it issues a command ticket prompting the user to vote at a receiving terminal and releases it along with the voting ticket.

[0028] A voting terminal (for example, voting terminal 200-2) designated as a command ticket receiving terminal by the management PC 100 accepts the insertion of a command ticket when accepting a vote. Upon receiving the insertion of a command ticket, voting terminal 200-2 determines whether the receiving terminal set on the inserted command ticket is voting terminal 200-2. If voting terminal 200-2 determines that the receiving terminal set on the command ticket is voting terminal 200-2, it issues the service ticket set on the inserted command ticket and dispenses it together with the voting ticket.

[0029] Host server 300 is a server computer that manages horse racing betting. Host server 300 collects betting information from betting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... and calculates odds and payout amounts, etc.

[0030] Figure 3 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a management PC. The entire device of the management PC 100 is controlled by a processor 101. The processor 101 is connected to memory 102 and several peripheral devices via a bus 109. The processor 101 may be a multiprocessor. The processor 101 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). At least some of the functions that the processor 101 implements by executing a program may be implemented by electronic circuits such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or a PLD (Programmable Logic Device).

[0031] Memory 102 is used as the main memory of the management PC 100. Memory 102 temporarily stores at least a portion of the OS (Operating System) program and application programs to be executed by the processor 101. Memory 102 also stores various data used for processing by the processor 101. For memory 102, a volatile semiconductor memory device such as RAM (Random Access Memory) is used.

[0032] Peripheral devices connected to bus 109 include a storage device 103, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) 104, an input interface 105, an optical drive device 106, a device connection interface 107, and a network interface 108.

[0033] The storage device 103 electrically or magnetically writes and reads data from its built-in recording medium. The storage device 103 is used as an auxiliary storage device for a computer. The storage device 103 stores the OS program, application programs, and various data. For example, the storage device 103 can be an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0034] A monitor 31 is connected to the GPU 104. The GPU 104 displays images on the screen of the monitor 31 according to instructions from the processor 101. The monitor 31 can be an OLED (Electroluminescence) display device or a liquid crystal display device, among others.

[0035] The input interface 105 is connected to a keyboard 32 and a mouse 33. The input interface 105 transmits signals from the keyboard 32 and mouse 33 to the processor 101. Note that the mouse 33 is just one example of a pointing device; other pointing devices can also be used. Other pointing devices include touch panels, tablets, touchpads, and trackballs.

[0036] The optical drive device 106 reads data recorded on the optical disc 34 using laser light or the like. The optical disc 34 is a portable recording medium on which data is recorded in a way that makes it readable by the reflection of light. Examples of optical discs 34 include DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), DVD-RAM, CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), and CD-R (Recordable) / RW (ReWritable).

[0037] The device connection interface 107 is a communication interface for connecting peripheral devices to the management PC 100. For example, a memory device 35 and a memory reader / writer 36 can be connected to the device connection interface 107. The memory device 35 is a recording medium equipped with a communication function with the device connection interface 107. The memory reader / writer 36 is a device that writes data to or reads data from the memory card 37. The memory card 37 is a card-type recording medium.

[0038] The network interface 108 is connected to the network 30. The network interface 108 transmits and receives data to and from other computers or communication devices via the network 30.

[0039] The management PC 100 can implement the processing functions of the second embodiment with the hardware configuration described above. The management device 10 shown in the first embodiment can also be implemented with the same hardware as the management PC 100 shown in Figure 3. The host server 300 can also be implemented with the same hardware as the management PC 100. Furthermore, the processor 101 is an example of the processing unit 11 shown in the first embodiment.

[0040] The management PC 100 implements the processing functions of the second embodiment by executing a program recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, for example. The program describing the processing to be executed by the management PC 100 can be recorded on various recording media. For example, the program to be executed by the management PC 100 can be stored in the storage device 103. The processor 101 loads at least a portion of the program in the storage device 103 into the memory 102 and executes the program. Alternatively, the program to be executed by the management PC 100 can be recorded on a portable recording medium such as an optical disc 34, a memory device 35, or a memory card 37. The program stored on the portable recording medium becomes executable after being installed in the storage device 103, for example, under control from the processor 101. The processor 101 can also directly read and execute the program from the portable recording medium.

[0041] Figure 4 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a voting terminal. The voting terminal 200-1 is controlled as a whole by a processor 201. The processor 201 is connected to memory 202 and several peripheral devices via a bus 212. The processor 201 may be a multiprocessor. The processor 201 is, for example, a CPU, MPU, or DSP. At least some of the functions that the processor 201 implements by executing a program may be implemented by electronic circuits such as ASICs and PLDs.

[0042] Memory 202 is used as the main memory of the voting terminal 200-1. Memory 202 temporarily stores at least a portion of the OS program and application programs to be executed by the processor 201. Memory 202 also stores various data used for processing by the processor 201. A volatile semiconductor memory device such as RAM is used as memory 202.

[0043] Peripheral devices connected to bus 212 include a storage device 203, a display device 204, a touch panel 205, a cash handling unit 206, a code reading unit 207, a mark card processing unit 208, a voting ticket processing unit 209, a device connection interface 210, and a network interface 211.

[0044] The storage device 203 electrically or magnetically writes and reads data from its internal recording medium. The storage device 203 is used as an auxiliary storage device for a computer. The storage device 203 stores the OS program, application programs, and various data. For example, an HDD or SSD can be used as the storage device 203.

[0045] The display device 204 displays an image according to instructions from the processor 201. The display device 204 may be an organic EL display device or a liquid crystal display device. The touch panel 205 is located in front of the screen of the display device 204 and detects the position of a press on the screen and sends a signal indicating that position to the processor 201.

[0046] The cash handling unit 206 controls the deposit and withdrawal of coins and banknotes according to the instructions of the processor 201. The cash handling unit 206 reads the type of coins and banknotes deposited and outputs it to the processor 201. The cash handling unit 206 also discharges coins and banknotes of the type instructed by the processor 201.

[0047] The code reading unit 207 reads two-dimensional codes such as QR codes and barcodes, and transmits the read information to the processor 201. The mark card processing unit 208 reads the information marked on mark cards used for betting in public sports and transmits the read information to the processor 201.

[0048] The voting slip processing unit 209 prints and reads voting slips according to instructions from the processor 201. The voting slip processing unit 209 prints voting slips with the voting details printed on them. The voting slip processing unit 209 also reads information from inserted voting slips. Furthermore, the voting slip processing unit 209 prints and reads instruction slips and service slips according to instructions from the processor 201.

[0049] The device connection interface 210 can read data from or write data to the portable recording medium 41. The portable recording medium 41 is, for example, a recording medium such as a DVD or CD.

[0050] The network interface 211 is connected to the network 30. The network interface 211 transmits and receives data to and from other computers or communication devices via the network 30.

[0051] The voting terminal 200-1 can implement the processing functions of the second embodiment with the hardware configuration described above. The voting terminals 200-2, ... and the voting terminals 1a, 1b, ... shown in the first embodiment can also be implemented with the same hardware as the voting terminal 200-1 shown in Figure 4. Next, the functions of the management PC 100 and the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... will be described in detail.

[0052] Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functions of a management PC and voting terminals. In the example shown in Figure 5, the case where voting terminal 200-1 operates as a command ticket issuing terminal and voting terminal 200-2 operates as a command ticket receiving terminal will be explained.

[0053] The management PC 100 includes a storage unit 110, an aggregation unit 120, and a command generation unit 130. The storage unit 110 is implemented using the storage area of ​​memory 102 or storage device 103. The aggregation unit 120 and the command generation unit 130 are implemented by the processor 101 executing a program stored in memory 102.

[0054] The memory unit 110 stores electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ..., fund counting information 112, time-slot voting counting information 113, method-specific voting counting information 114, and operational status information 115. Electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... record the status when the corresponding voting terminal accepted a vote. Fund counting information 112 is information that aggregates the sales amount etc. for each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, ... from the previous day. Time-slot voting counting information 113 is information that aggregates the sales amount for each time slot on the previous day for each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, .... Method-specific voting counting information 114 is information that aggregates the sales amount for each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, ... from the previous day by purchase method and method. Operational status information 115 shows the operational status of each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, ... on the previous day.

[0055] The tabulation unit 120 collects electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... from voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... and compiles data related to voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... The tabulation unit 120 obtains electronic journals from each of the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... that record the status of the vote acceptance processing received the previous day. The tabulation unit 120 stores the obtained electronic journals as electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... in the storage unit 110.

[0056] The aggregation unit 120 aggregates data related to voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... into fund aggregation information 112, time-slot voting aggregation information 113, method-specific voting aggregation information 114, and operational status information 115. The aggregation unit 120 aggregates the increase or decrease in funds for each voting terminal from electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the aggregation results in fund aggregation information 112. The aggregation unit 120 also aggregates the voting amount for each time slot for each voting terminal from electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the aggregation results in time-slot voting aggregation information 113. The aggregation unit 120 also aggregates the number of votes by method for each voting terminal from electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the aggregation results in method-specific voting aggregation information 114. Furthermore, the tabulation unit 120 compiles the operational status of each voting terminal from the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the tabulation results in the operational status information 115.

[0057] The command generation unit 130 determines the command ticket issuing terminal, the command ticket receiving terminal, and the content of the command ticket. The command generation unit 130 refers to the fund totaling information 112, the time-based voting totaling information 113, the method-based voting totaling information 114, and the operational status information 115, and determines the voting terminals with the highest voting amounts, the number of mark cards inserted, and the highest payout amounts to be the command ticket issuing terminals. The command generation unit 130 also refers to the fund totaling information 112, the time-based voting totaling information 113, the method-based voting totaling information 114, and the operational status information 115, and determines the voting terminals with the lowest voting amounts, the number of mark cards inserted, and the lowest payout amounts to be the command ticket receiving terminals. The command generation unit 130 also determines the conditions for achieving the command on the command ticket, the type of service ticket issued by the command ticket receiving terminal, the frequency with which the command ticket issuing terminal issues command tickets, the validity period of the command ticket, etc., based on input from the staff.

[0058] The command generation unit 130 notifies the determined command ticket issuing terminal (for example, voting terminal 200-1) of the contents of the command ticket and instructs it to operate as a command ticket issuing terminal. The command generation unit 130 also notifies the determined command ticket receiving terminal (for example, voting terminal 200-2) of the contents of the command ticket and instructs it to operate as a command ticket receiving terminal.

[0059] The voting terminal 200-1 includes a vote reception unit 220a and a command ticket issuance processing unit 230a. The vote reception unit 220a and the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a are realized by the processor 201 executing a program stored in memory 202.

[0060] The voting reception unit 220a accepts votes according to the user's instructions. The voting reception unit 220a accepts the insertion of cash and the input of vote details. For example, the voting reception unit 220a accepts the insertion of a mark card and reads the vote details indicated on the inserted mark card using the mark card processing unit 208. The voting reception unit 220a accepts the vote based on the vote details read from the mark card and notifies the host server 300 of the accepted vote details.

[0061] The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a issues a command ticket when the vote acceptance unit 220a accepts a vote. The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a counts the number of votes accepted by the vote acceptance unit 220a. When the counted number of votes reaches the number set by the management PC 100 as the frequency for issuing command tickets, the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a displays a screen to confirm whether or not to participate in an event using the command ticket. If the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a receives a selection indicating participation in the event, it issues a command ticket. For example, the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a causes the vote ticket processing unit 209 to print a command ticket with the contents set by the management PC 100.

[0062] The voting terminal 200-2 includes a vote reception unit 220b and a command slip receiving processing unit 230b. The vote reception unit 220b and the command slip receiving processing unit 230b are realized by the execution of a program stored in the memory of the voting terminal 200-2 by the processor of the voting terminal 200-2.

[0063] The voting reception unit 220b accepts votes according to the user's instructions. The voting reception unit 220b accepts the insertion of cash and the input of vote details. The voting reception unit 220b accepts the vote based on the entered vote details and notifies the host server 300 of the accepted vote details.

[0064] When the voting acceptance unit 220b accepts a vote, the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b issues a service ticket upon receiving the instruction ticket. Upon receiving the instruction ticket, the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b reads information from the instruction ticket using the voting ticket processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2. Based on the information read, the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b confirms that the conditions set on the instruction ticket have been met, and then issues a service ticket of the type set on the instruction ticket. For example, the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b causes the voting ticket processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2 to print a service ticket of the type read from the instruction ticket.

[0065] Note that the lines connecting each element shown in Figure 5 represent only a portion of the communication path, and other communication paths besides those shown can also be configured. Next, the information stored in the memory unit 110 will be explained in detail.

[0066] Figure 6 shows an example of an electronic journal. Electronic journal 111-1 is a record of the voting status of one of the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... (for example, voting terminal 200-1). The tabulation unit 120 retrieves electronic journal 111-1 from voting terminal 200-1 and stores it in the storage unit 110. For each vote received by voting terminal 200-1, electronic journal 111-1 records the amount cast, the time of vote acceptance, the voting method, and the content of the vote.

[0067] For example, electronic journal 111-1 includes the time the cash was inserted, indicating the time when customer service for accepting cash bets began, and the amount of cash inserted. Also, for example, electronic journal 111-1 includes the time the card was inserted, indicating that the betting details were entered using a mark card. Also, for example, electronic journal 111-1 includes betting details such as the venue name, race number, type of bet, betting method, combination number, and betting amount. Also, for example, electronic journal 111-1 includes the settlement result of the purchase price of the betting ticket based on the inserted amount. Also, for example, electronic journal 111-1 includes the time the betting ticket was removed, indicating the time when the betting acceptance process was completed.

[0068] Figure 7 shows an example of fund summary information. Fund summary information 112 is information that summarizes the sales amount, etc., for each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, etc. from the previous day. Fund summary information 112 has the polling station name, group number, window number, and machine number set for each voting terminal. The polling station name is the name of the polling station where the corresponding voting terminal is installed. The group number, window number, and machine number are numbers used to identify the corresponding voting terminal.

[0069] Funding summary information 112 contains the aggregated results for each voting terminal, including total amount, sales amount, MC (mark card) / TP (touch panel) voting amount, QR voting amount, refund amount, in-device amount, number of gift certificates, gift usage amount, number of QR payment sales, and QR payment sales amount. Funding summary information 112 also contains subtotals for all voting terminals for total amount, sales amount, MC / TP voting amount, QR voting amount, refund amount, in-device amount, number of gift certificates, gift usage amount, number of QR payment sales, and QR payment sales amount.

[0070] The total amount is the sum of the votes received by the corresponding voting terminal the previous day, taking into account deductions and accident fees. The sales amount is the sum of the votes received by the corresponding voting terminal the previous day. The MC / TP vote amount is the sum of the votes received by the corresponding voting terminal the previous day, for votes entered using mark cards (MC votes) and votes entered using touch panels (TP votes). The QR vote amount is the sum of the votes entered using QR codes received by the corresponding voting terminal the previous day (QR votes). The payout amount is the sum of the payouts made by the corresponding voting terminal for winning tickets the previous day.

[0071] The amount in the device is the amount of cash stored in the corresponding voting terminal the previous day. The number of gift certificates is the total number of gift certificates used at the corresponding voting terminal the previous day. The gift usage amount is the total value of the gift certificates used at the corresponding voting terminal the previous day. The number of QR payment sales is the total number of votes for which the voting amount was paid by QR payment, which were accepted by the corresponding voting terminal the previous day. The QR payment sales amount is the total voting amount for votes for which the voting amount was paid by QR payment, which were accepted by the corresponding voting terminal the previous day. In addition, the fund tally information 112 may also contain deduction amounts, accident amounts, etc.

[0072] Figure 8 shows an example of time-based vote counting information. Time-based vote counting information 113 is information that aggregates the sales amount for each time period on the previous day for each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, etc. Time-based vote counting information 113 has the name of the polling station, group number, window number, and machine number set for each voting terminal. In addition, time-based vote counting information 113 has the amount of votes received for each 10-minute time period on the previous day for each voting terminal. Furthermore, time-based vote counting information 113 has the subtotal of the amount of votes received by all voting terminals for each 10-minute time period on the previous day.

[0073] Figure 9 shows an example of voting tally information by voting method. The voting tally information by voting method 114 is information that aggregates the sales amount from the previous day for each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, ... by voting method and voting method. The voting tally information by voting method 114 is set for each voting terminal, including the name of the polling station, group number, window number, and machine number.

[0074] Furthermore, the voting tally information by method 114 includes the total amount of votes received the previous day for each voting terminal, aggregated by combination of betting method and type. For example, the voting tally information by method 114 aggregates the amount of votes for combinations of regular betting methods and types such as win, place, and exacta bets. Also, for example, the voting tally information by method 114 aggregates the amount of votes for combinations of formation, box, and straight betting methods and types such as exacta and quinella bets that specify multiple combinations of horse numbers. In addition, the voting tally information by method 114 includes a subtotal that is the sum of the amounts of votes received the previous day for all voting terminals, aggregated by combination of betting method and type. Furthermore, the voting tally information by method 114 includes the number of MC votes, TP votes, and QR votes received the previous day and the amount of votes received for each voting terminal.

[0075] Figure 10 shows an example of operational status information. Operational status information 115 shows the operational status of each voting terminal 200-1, 200-2, ... for the previous day. Operational status information 115 is set for each voting terminal as the name of the voting place, group number, window number, and machine number. Operational status information 115 is also set for each voting terminal as the number of cash (banknotes and coins) identified, the number of cash dispensed, the number of cash replenished, and the number of cash collected. Operational status information 115 is also set for each voting terminal as the number of voting cards and winning tickets read, the cumulative number of refunds, and the number of QR code reads. Operational status information 115 is also set as the subtotal for all voting terminals as the number of cash identified, the number of cash dispensed, the number of cash replenished, the number of cash collected, the number of voting cards and winning tickets read, the cumulative number of refunds, and the number of QR code reads.

[0076] Next, we will explain the command content data that the management PC 100 transmits to the command ticket issuing terminal and the command ticket receiving terminal. Figure 11 shows an example of instruction content data. The management PC 100 transmits the instruction content data 61 to the instruction ticket issuing terminal and the instruction ticket receiving terminal. The voting terminal that receives the instruction content data 61 operates as an instruction ticket issuing terminal or an instruction ticket receiving terminal according to the instruction content data 61. The instruction content data 61 contains items such as instruction ID, instruction ticket issuing terminal, instruction ticket receiving terminal, instruction conditions, service ticket type, instruction ticket issuance notification frequency, instruction ticket expiration date, and instruction function occurrence period.

[0077] The Command ID field is set with an ID that identifies the command content data 61. The Command Ticket Issuing Terminal field is set with information that identifies the voting terminal that operates as a command ticket issuing terminal. The Command Ticket Receiving Terminal field is set with information that identifies the voting terminal that operates as a command ticket receiving terminal. In the second embodiment, one command ticket issuing terminal and one command ticket receiving terminal are specified, but multiple command ticket issuing terminals and command ticket receiving terminals may be specified. For example, multiple voting terminals installed at a predetermined polling station may be designated together as a command ticket issuing terminal or a command ticket receiving terminal.

[0078] The command conditions field specifies the conditions under which a service ticket will be issued when the command ticket receiving terminal receives a command ticket. For example, the command conditions field might specify that one vote must be cast at the voting terminal (target terminal) set as the command ticket receiving terminal in the command content data 61. The command conditions field may also specify that a specific betting method or type of bet must be placed at the target terminal.

[0079] Furthermore, the command conditions may include a setting that allows voting multiple times at the target terminal. If the command conditions include a setting that allows voting multiple times at the target terminal, and the number of votes cast at the target terminal after inserting a command ticket has not reached the number specified in the command conditions, the target terminal will issue a new command ticket with information indicating the current number of votes cast. Then, if a command ticket is inserted at the time of vote acceptance, and adding 1 to the number of votes cast on the command ticket brings the total number of votes cast to the number specified in the command conditions, the target terminal will issue a service ticket.

[0080] The "Service Ticket Type" field specifies the type of service ticket issued by the ticket receiving terminal upon receiving a ticket. The "Ticket Issuance Notification Frequency" field specifies how often the ticket issuing terminal notifies users of events using the ticket. The "Ticket Expiration Date" field specifies the deadline by which the ticket receiving terminal must validly accept the ticket issued by the ticket issuing terminal. The "Command Function Occurrence Period" field specifies the period during which the voting terminal that acquired the command content data 61 operates as either a ticket issuing terminal or a ticket receiving terminal.

[0081] Next, we will explain the command tickets issued by the command ticket issuing terminal and the service tickets issued by the command ticket receiving terminal. Figure 12 shows an example of a command ticket. A voting terminal operating as a command ticket issuing terminal (for example, voting terminal 200-1) issues a command ticket 71 when accepting a vote. The command ticket 71 is a ticket on which text and other information are printed by the voting ticket processing unit 209 on the paper used for printing the voting tickets.

[0082] The instruction ticket 71 includes an indication that it is an instruction ticket. The instruction ticket 71 also includes a message indicating an instruction, such as "Vote at the voting terminal at the second polling station window 1!" The instruction ticket 71 also includes an indication of its expiration date. The instruction ticket 71 also includes a QR code indicating the instruction ID, instruction ticket issuing terminal, instruction ticket receiving terminal, instruction conditions, service ticket type, instruction ticket expiration date, etc.

[0083] The display on the instruction slip 71 allows users to understand the content of the instruction slip 71 and its expiration date. Furthermore, the instruction slip receiving terminal can determine whether the instruction slip 71 is a valid instruction slip that has been set to receive the instruction slip by reading the QR code on the instruction slip 71 using the voting slip processing unit.

[0084] Figure 13 shows an example of a service ticket. When a voting terminal (for example, voting terminal 200-2) that operates as a command ticket receiving terminal accepts the insertion of a command ticket 71 when accepting a vote, it issues a service ticket 72. The service ticket 72 is a ticket on which text and other information are printed by the voting ticket processing unit of voting terminal 200-2 on the paper used for printing the voting ticket.

[0085] The service voucher 72 includes an indication of the type of service voucher. For example, the service voucher 72 includes an indication such as "Gift voucher worth 100 yen" to show that the service voucher 72 is a gift voucher worth 100 yen. When a service voucher 72 is inserted when accepting a vote, each voting terminal provides the service set out on the service voucher 72. For example, when a service voucher 72 that is a gift voucher worth 100 yen is inserted, each voting terminal treats the service voucher 72 as 100 yen and accepts payment of the vote amount.

[0086] Next, we will explain the display screens on the ticket issuing terminal and ticket receiving terminal when voting is being accepted. Figure 14 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of the display screen of a command ticket issuing terminal. A voting terminal operating as a command ticket issuing terminal (for example, voting terminal 200-1) displays screen 81 on the display device 204 as a waiting screen for accepting votes. Screen 81 is the vote acceptance waiting screen of the command ticket issuing terminal.

[0087] Screen 81 includes a "Cancel" button. Screen 81 also includes a message prompting the user to begin accepting votes by inserting cash or a winning ticket, such as "Please insert cash or a winning ticket." Screen 81 also displays the race numbers of the races to be held on that day. On screen 81, the race numbers of races that have already been held and for which refunds are being accepted (refunds are being processed) and the race numbers of races that will be held in the future and for which betting is currently being accepted (tickets are on sale) are displayed in different colors. When the betting terminal 200-1 accepts the insertion of cash or a mark card while screen 81 is displayed, it displays screen 82 on the display device 204.

[0088] Screen 82 is a screen for allowing the user to confirm the details of the vote to be accepted. Screen 82 includes a "Settlement" button. Screen 82 also includes a message prompting the user to insert another mark card or press the "Settlement" button, such as "Please insert a voting card or press the 'Settlement' button." Screen 82 also includes a display of the vote details shown on the last inserted mark card. For example, Screen 82 includes a display of the date of the event, venue name, race number, betting method, type of bet, combination number, betting amount for each combination number, and total betting amount shown on the last inserted mark card.

[0089] Furthermore, screen 82 includes a display of the amount of cash inserted. Also, screen 82 includes a display of the total amount of betting (purchase amount) indicated by the mark cards inserted to date. Furthermore, screen 82 includes a display of the remaining funds, which is the difference between the amount of cash inserted and the purchase amount.

[0090] When the voting terminal 200-1 receives a cash payment and / or a mark card insertion while displaying screen 82, it updates screen 82 with the vote indicated on the inserted mark card and displays the updated screen 82 on the display device 204. When the voting terminal 200-1 receives a press of the "Settle" button, it accepts the vote indicated on the mark card inserted up to the time the "Settle" button was pressed and notifies the host server 300 of the accepted vote.

[0091] Figure 15 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the display screen of the command ticket issuing terminal. When the voting terminal 200-1 receives a vote, it determines whether it has received the number of votes set by the command ticket issuance guidance frequency indicated in the command content data 61. If the voting terminal 200-1 determines that it has received the number of votes set by the command ticket issuance guidance frequency, it displays screen 83 on the display device 204.

[0092] Screen 83 is a screen for confirming with the user whether or not to participate in an event using a command ticket. Screen 83 includes a message asking whether or not to participate in an event using a command ticket, such as "Do you want to participate in the command event?". Screen 83 also includes "Participate" and "Do not participate" buttons. When the voting terminal 200-1 receives a press of the "Do not participate" button while Screen 83 is displayed, it dispenses the voting ticket for the received vote and the change, which is the difference between the cash inserted and the amount of the vote received.

[0093] When voting terminal 200-1 receives a press of the "Participate" button while screen 83 is displayed, it issues an instruction ticket with the contents indicated in the instruction data 61. Then, voting terminal 200-1 displays screen 84 on the display device 204 and dispenses the voting ticket, change, and instruction ticket.

[0094] Screen 84 is a screen indicating that the vote has been received. Screen 84 includes a message indicating that the vote, change, and instruction tickets have been issued, such as "Please take your vote, instruction ticket, and change." Screen 84 also includes a display showing the quantity of vote, change, and instruction tickets. Screen 84 also includes a message indicating that the vote has been received, such as "Thank you."

[0095] Figure 16 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of the display screen of a command ticket receiving terminal. A voting terminal operating as a command ticket receiving terminal (for example, voting terminal 200-2) displays screen 91 on the display device of voting terminal 200-2 as a waiting screen for accepting votes. Screen 91 is the vote acceptance waiting screen of the command ticket receiving terminal.

[0096] Screen 91 includes the same display as screen 81. Screen 91 also includes a message prompting the insertion of a command slip, such as "Please insert your command slip if you have one." When voting terminal 200-2 receives a cash deposit and a command slip while screen 91 is displayed, it determines whether the inserted command slip is within its validity period and whether voting terminal 200-2 is the command slip receiving terminal set on the inserted command slip. If voting terminal 200-2 determines that the inserted command slip is within its validity period and that voting terminal 200-2 is the command slip receiving terminal set on the inserted command slip, it displays screen 92 on the display device of voting terminal 200-2.

[0097] Screen 92 is a screen for allowing the user to confirm the contents of the instruction set for the inserted instruction ticket. Screen 92 includes an "End" button and a "Confirm" button. When the voting terminal 200-2 receives a press of the "End" button on screen 92, it returns the inserted instruction ticket. Screen 92 also includes a message prompting the user to press the "Confirm" button after confirming the contents of the instruction set for the inserted instruction ticket, such as "Mission! Please check the contents and press the "Confirm" button." Screen 92 also includes a message indicating the instruction written on the inserted instruction ticket. Screen 92 also includes a display of the expiration date of the inserted instruction ticket.

[0098] Figure 17 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the display screen of the instruction ticket receiving terminal. When the voting terminal 200-2 receives the operation of pressing the "Confirm" button on screen 92, it displays screen 93 on the display device of the voting terminal 200-2. Screen 93 is the screen that accepts the insertion of the mark card.

[0099] Screen 93 includes a "Settlement" button. Screen 93 also includes a message prompting the user to insert a mark card or press the "Settlement" button, such as "Please insert a voting card or press the 'Settlement' button." Screen 93 also displays the amount of cash inserted. Screen 93 also displays that the total amount of votes (purchase amount) indicated by the mark cards inserted so far is 0 yen. Screen 93 also displays the remaining funds, which is the difference between the amount of cash inserted and the purchase amount. When the voting terminal 200-2 accepts the insertion of a mark card, it displays screen 94 on the display device 204. The content of the display on screen 94 is the same as the content of the display on screen 82. When the voting terminal 200-2 accepts the press of the "Settlement" button on screen 94, it accepts the votes indicated by the mark cards inserted up to the time the "Settlement" button was pressed and notifies the host server 300 of the accepted votes.

[0100] Figure 18 is a diagram (part 3) showing an example of the display screen of the command slip receiving terminal. When the voting terminal 200-2 receives a vote, it determines whether or not the command conditions set on the inserted command slip have been met. If the voting terminal 200-2 determines that the command conditions set on the inserted command slip have been met, it displays screen 95 on the display device of the voting terminal 200-2.

[0101] Screen 95 is a screen that allows the user to confirm that they have completed the mission set on the mission ticket. Screen 95 includes an "End" button and a "Confirm" button. Screen 95 also includes a message indicating that the mission set on the inserted mission ticket has been completed, such as "Mission successful! Please check the details and press the "Confirm" button." Screen 95 also includes a message indicating the mission written on the inserted mission ticket. Screen 95 also displays the expiration date of the inserted mission ticket.

[0102] When the voting terminal 200-2 receives the "Confirm" button press on screen 95, it issues a service ticket of the service ticket type indicated on the inserted instruction ticket. The voting terminal 200-2 then displays screen 96 on its display device and dispenses the voting ticket, change, and service ticket.

[0103] Screen 96 is a screen indicating that the vote has been received. Screen 96 includes a message indicating that the vote, change, and service vouchers have been issued, such as "Please take your vote, service voucher, and change." Screen 96 also includes a display showing the quantity of vote, change, and service vouchers. Screen 96 also includes a message indicating that the vote has been received, such as "Thank you."

[0104] Next, we will explain in detail the processes performed by the management PC 100 and the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... First, we will explain the data aggregation process performed by the management PC 100 regarding the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... The aggregation process is performed, for example, every other day before the opening of the stadium 50.

[0105] Figure 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the aggregation process. The process shown in Figure 19 will be explained below according to the step numbers. [Step S11] The tabulation unit 120 obtains electronic journals from each of the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... that record the status of the voting acceptance process received the previous day. The tabulation unit 120 stores the obtained electronic journals as electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... in the storage unit 110.

[0106] [Step S12] The aggregation unit 120 aggregates the increase or decrease in funds for each voting terminal from the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the aggregation results in the fund aggregation information 112. For example, the aggregation unit 120 refers to the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and aggregates the total amount, sales amount, MC / TP voting amount, QR voting amount, refund amount, in-device amount, number of gift certificates, gift usage amount, number of QR payment sales, and QR payment sales amount for each voting terminal. The aggregation unit 120 then stores the aggregation results in the fund aggregation information 112.

[0107] [Step S13] The tabulation unit 120 aggregates the voting amounts for each time period for each voting terminal from the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the aggregated results in the time period voting tabulation information 113. For example, the tabulation unit 120 refers to the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and aggregates the voting amounts for each voting terminal that received votes in each 10-minute time period on the previous day. Then, the tabulation unit 120 stores the aggregated results in the time period voting tabulation information 113.

[0108] [Step S14] The tabulation unit 120 aggregates the number of votes by voting method for each voting terminal from the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the tabulation results in the voting tabulation information by method 114. For example, the tabulation unit 120 refers to the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and aggregates the amount of votes received by each voting terminal the previous day for each combination of buying method and type. The tabulation unit 120 also refers to the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and aggregates the number of MC votes, TP votes, and QR votes received the previous day for each voting terminal. Then, the tabulation unit 120 stores the tabulation results in the voting tabulation information by method 114.

[0109] [Step S15] The aggregation unit 120 aggregates the operational status of each voting terminal from the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and stores the aggregation results in the operational status information 115. For example, the aggregation unit 120 refers to the electronic journals 111-1, 111-2, ... and aggregates the number of cash identified, the number of cash dispensed, the number of cash replenished, the number of cash collected, the number of voting cards and winning tickets read, the cumulative number of refunds, and the number of QR code reads for each voting terminal the previous day. The aggregation unit 120 then stores the aggregation results in the operational status information 115.

[0110] In this way, the management PC 100 aggregates data related to voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... into fund aggregation information 112, time-based voting aggregation information 113, method-based voting aggregation information 114, and operational status information 115. Next, the procedure for the command setting process, in which the contents of the command tickets are set by the management PC 100 and voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... will be described. The command setting process is performed, for example, every other day after the aggregation process is executed.

[0111] Figure 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the command setting process. The process shown in Figure 20 will be explained below according to the step numbers. [Step S21] The command generation unit 130 sets the voting terminal with the highest voting amount, number of mark card insertions, and payout amount among the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... as the command ticket issuing terminal. For example, the command generation unit 130 generates command content data 61 with an unused ID set in the command ID field. The command generation unit 130 refers to the sales amount of each voting terminal in the fund totaling information 112 to identify the voting terminal with the highest sales amount, and sets information indicating the identified voting terminal in the command ticket issuing terminal field of the command content data 61.

[0112] Here, if the command generation unit 130 identifies multiple voting terminals with the highest sales amount, it refers to the voting aggregation information 114 by method and identifies the voting terminal with the highest number of MC votes among the voting terminals with the highest sales amount. The command generation unit 130 then sets the information indicating the identified voting terminal in the command ticket issuing terminal field of the command content data 61. Also, if the command generation unit 130 identifies multiple voting terminals with the highest number of MC votes, it refers to the fund aggregation information 112 and identifies the voting terminal with the highest refund amount among the voting terminals with the highest number of MC votes. The command generation unit 130 then sets the information indicating the identified voting terminal in the command ticket issuing terminal field of the command content data 61.

[0113] The command generation unit 130 may set the voting terminal entered by the staff member as the command ticket issuing terminal, or it may set the command ticket issuing terminal using other data such as the fund counting information 112, the time-slot voting counting information 113, the method-specific voting counting information 114, and the operational status information 115.

[0114] [Step S22] The command generation unit 130 sets the voting terminal with the lowest voting amount, number of mark card insertions, and payout amount among the voting terminals 200-1, 200-2, ... as the command ticket receiving terminal. For example, the command generation unit 130 refers to the sales amount of each voting terminal in the fund tally information 112 to identify the voting terminal with the lowest sales amount, and sets the information indicating the identified voting terminal in the command ticket receiving terminal item of the command content data 61. If the command generation unit 130 identifies multiple voting terminals with the lowest sales amounts, it refers to the voting tally information 114 by method to identify the voting terminal with the fewest MC votes among the voting terminals with the lowest sales amounts. Then, the command generation unit 130 sets the information indicating the identified voting terminal in the command ticket receiving terminal item of the command content data 61.

[0115] Furthermore, if the command generation unit 130 identifies multiple voting terminals with the fewest MC votes, it refers to the fund tally information 112 to identify the voting terminal with the lowest payout among those with the fewest MC votes. The command generation unit 130 then sets the information indicating the identified voting terminal in the command ticket receiving terminal field of the command content data 61. The command generation unit 130 may set the voting terminal entered by the staff as the command ticket receiving terminal, or it may set the command ticket receiving terminal using other data such as the fund tally information 112, time-based voting tally information 113, method-based voting tally information 114, and operational status information 115.

[0116] [Step S23] The command generation unit 130 sets the command conditions, service ticket type, command ticket issuance guidance frequency, command ticket expiration date, and command function activation period. For example, the command generation unit 130 sets the command conditions, service ticket type, command ticket issuance guidance frequency, command ticket expiration date, and command function activation period entered by the staff into each item of the command content data 61. Alternatively, the command generation unit 130 may set the command conditions, service ticket type, command ticket issuance guidance frequency, command ticket expiration date, and command function activation period that have been entered in advance into each item of the command content data 61. Furthermore, the command generation unit 130 may automatically set the command conditions, service ticket type, command ticket issuance guidance frequency, command ticket expiration date, and command function activation period using the data from the fund aggregation information 112, time-based voting aggregation information 113, method-based voting aggregation information 114, and operational status information 115.

[0117] [Step S24] The command generation unit 130 transmits the command content data 61 to the command ticket issuing terminal (for example, the voting terminal 200-1) set in step S21, instructing it to operate as a command ticket issuing terminal.

[0118] [Step S25] The voting terminal 200-1 receives the instruction content data 61 and instructions to operate as an instruction ticket issuing terminal from the management PC 100. [Step S26] Voting terminal 200-1 begins operation as a command ticket issuing terminal. Voting terminal 200-1 will continue to operate as a command ticket issuing terminal until the command function occurrence period set in the command content data 61 ends.

[0119] [Step S27] The command generation unit 130 transmits the command content data 61 to the command ticket receiving terminal (for example, the voting terminal 200-2) set in step S22, instructing it to operate as a command ticket receiving terminal.

[0120] [Step S28] The voting terminal 200-2 receives the instruction content data 61 and instructions to operate as an instruction ticket receiving terminal from the management PC 100. [Step S29] Voting terminal 200-2 begins operation as a command ticket receiving terminal. Voting terminal 200-2 will continue to operate as a command ticket receiving terminal until the command function generation period set in the command content data 61 ends.

[0121] In this way, the management PC 100 sets each item of the command content data 61 and transmits the command content data 61 to the command ticket issuing terminal and the command ticket receiving terminal. Here, the management PC 100 sets the voting terminal with the lowest vote amount, number of mark card insertions, and refund amount as the command ticket receiving terminal. As a result, when the command ticket issuing terminal issues a command ticket, the user is encouraged to vote at a less-used voting terminal. Therefore, the voting system of the second embodiment can alleviate congestion in the stadium 50.

[0122] Next, we will explain the procedure for processing votes received by voting terminal 200-1, which operates as a command ticket issuing terminal. Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure for processing votes received by a ticket issuing terminal. The process shown in Figure 21 will be explained below according to the step numbers.

[0123] [Step S31] The voting reception unit 220a displays a standby screen. For example, the voting reception unit 220a displays screen 81 on the display device 204. [Step S32] The voting reception unit 220a determines whether or not cash has been inserted. The voting reception unit 220a determines that cash has been inserted, for example, if the cash processing unit 206 reads the cash. If the voting reception unit 220a determines that cash has been inserted, it proceeds to step S33. If the voting reception unit 220a determines that no cash has been inserted, it proceeds to step S31.

[0124] [Step S33] The voting reception unit 220a receives the input of the voting content and executes the vote based on the received voting content. For example, the voting reception unit 220a receives the insertion of a mark card and reads the voting content indicated on the inserted mark card using the mark card processing unit 208. The voting reception unit 220a accepts the vote based on the read voting content and notifies the host server 300 of the received voting content.

[0125] [Step S34] The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a counts the number of votes. For example, the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a adds 1 to the currently set number of votes. [Step S35] The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a determines whether the number of votes is equal to or greater than the number set as the command ticket issuance guidance frequency in the command content data 61. If the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a determines that the number of votes is equal to or greater than the number set in the command content data 61, it proceeds to step S36. If the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a also determines that the number of votes is equal to or greater than the number set in the command content data 61, it releases the voting tickets and change received in step S33 and proceeds to step S31.

[0126] [Step S36] The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a displays a screen to confirm whether or not to participate in an event using a command ticket. For example, the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a displays screen 83 on the display device 204.

[0127] [Step S37] The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a determines whether or not it has received a selection indicating participation in the event. For example, if the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a receives a press of the "Participate" button on screen 83, it determines that it has received a selection indicating participation in the event. If the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a determines that it has received a selection indicating participation in the event, it proceeds to step S38. If the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a determines that it has received a selection indicating not to participate in the event, it releases the voting ticket and change received in step S33 and proceeds to step S31.

[0128] [Step S38] The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a issues a command ticket set in the command content data 61. For example, the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a causes the voting ticket processing unit 209 to print a command ticket that includes a message indicating the command set in the command content data 61, and a QR code indicating the command ticket receiving terminal, command conditions, service ticket type, command ticket expiration date, etc. The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a discharges the printed command ticket and the voting tickets for the votes received in step S33 to the voting ticket processing unit 209. The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a also discharges the change to the cash processing unit 206.

[0129] [Step S39] The command ticket issuance processing unit 230a resets the number of votes. For example, the command ticket issuance processing unit 230a sets the number of votes to 0. Then the process proceeds to step S31.

[0130] In this way, the voting terminal 200-1, which operates as a command ticket issuing terminal, issues a command ticket when accepting a vote. When the number of votes reaches the number set as the command ticket issuance guidance frequency set in the command content data 61, the voting terminal 200-1 displays a screen to confirm whether or not to participate in an event using a command ticket, and issues a command ticket. As a result, the voting system of the second embodiment can prevent the issuance of an excessive number of command tickets and can appropriately adjust the amount of service tickets discovered in events using command tickets.

[0131] Next, we will explain the procedure for processing votes received by voting terminal 200-2, which operates as a command slip receiving terminal. Figure 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for processing votes received by a command ticket receiving terminal. The process shown in Figure 22 will be explained below according to the step numbers.

[0132] [Step S41] The voting reception unit 220b displays a standby screen. For example, the voting reception unit 220b displays screen 91 on the display device of the voting terminal 200-2. [Step S42] The vote receiving unit 220b determines whether or not cash has been inserted. For example, if the cash processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2 reads the cash, the vote receiving unit 220b determines that cash has been inserted. If the vote receiving unit 220b determines that cash has been inserted, it proceeds to step S43. If the vote receiving unit 220b determines that no cash has been inserted, it proceeds to step S41.

[0133] [Step S43] The instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines whether or not it has received the insertion of a valid instruction ticket. For example, when an instruction ticket is inserted, the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b reads information from the QR code on the instruction ticket using the voting ticket processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2. The instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines that it has received the insertion of a valid instruction ticket if the current time is within the validity period read from the instruction ticket. The instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b also determines that it has not received the insertion of a valid instruction ticket if no instruction ticket is inserted or if the current time is not within the validity period read. If the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines that it has received the insertion of a valid instruction ticket, it proceeds to step S44. If the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines that it has not received the insertion of a valid instruction ticket, the voting acceptance unit 220a executes the voting acceptance process and proceeds to step S41.

[0134] [Step S44] The command slip receiving processing unit 230b determines whether the command slip receiving terminal set on the command slip inserted in step S43 is its own device (voting terminal 200-2). For example, if the command slip receiving processing unit 230b reads that the command slip receiving terminal is voting terminal 200-2, it determines that the receiving terminal set on the command slip is its own device. If the command slip receiving processing unit 230b determines that the receiving terminal set on the command slip is its own device, it proceeds to step S45. If the command slip receiving processing unit 230b determines that the receiving terminal set on the command slip is not its own device, the vote acceptance unit 220a executes the vote acceptance process and proceeds to step S41.

[0135] [Step S45] The instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b displays a screen for confirming the contents of the instruction. For example, the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b causes the display device of the voting terminal 200-2 to display a screen 92 containing the contents of the instruction read from the instruction ticket.

[0136] [Step S46] The voting reception unit 220b receives the input of the voting content and executes the vote based on the received voting content. For example, the voting reception unit 220b receives the insertion of a mark card and reads the voting content indicated on the inserted mark card using the mark card processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2. The voting reception unit 220b accepts the vote based on the read voting content and notifies the host server 300 of the received voting content.

[0137] [Step S47] The command ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines whether the conditions set on the command ticket have been met. For example, if the command condition read from the command ticket is to cast a vote once at the target terminal, the command ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines that the conditions set on the command ticket have been met. Also, for example, if the command condition read from the command ticket is to cast a vote in a specific way or type at the target terminal, the command ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines whether the vote received in step S46 includes a vote in the corresponding way or type. If the vote received in step S46 includes a vote in the corresponding way or type, the command ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines that the conditions set on the command ticket have been met. If the command ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines that the conditions set on the command ticket have been met, it proceeds to step S48. If the command ticket receiving processing unit 230b determines that the conditions set on the command ticket have not been met, it releases the voting ticket and change and proceeds to step S41.

[0138] [Step S48] The command ticket receiving processing unit 230b issues the service ticket set on the command ticket. For example, the command ticket receiving processing unit 230b causes the voting ticket processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2 to print a service ticket that includes an indication of the service ticket type read from the command ticket. The command ticket receiving processing unit 230b then discharges the printed service ticket and the voting ticket for the vote received in step S46 to the voting ticket processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2. The command ticket receiving processing unit 230b also discharges the change to the cash processing unit of the voting terminal 200-2. Then the process proceeds to step S41.

[0139] In the example above, the instruction ticket receiving processing unit 230b reads information such as the expiration date, instruction ticket receiving terminal, instruction content, instruction conditions, and service ticket type from the instruction ticket, but this information may also be identified from the instruction content data 61 obtained from the management PC 100.

[0140] In this way, when the voting terminal 200-2, which operates as a command ticket receiving terminal, receives a command ticket and determines whether or not the command set on the command ticket has been achieved. If the voting terminal 200-2 determines that the command set on the command ticket has been achieved, it issues the service ticket set on the command ticket. Thus, the voting system of the second embodiment can provide an event in which a service ticket can be obtained by voting using the command ticket receiving terminal in accordance with the command ticket. Such an event using command tickets can also improve the satisfaction of infrequent users. Therefore, the voting system of the second embodiment can improve the service to users at public sports venues.

[0141] Although embodiments have been illustrated above, the configurations of each part shown in the embodiments can be replaced with others having similar functions. Furthermore, other arbitrary components or processes may be added. Moreover, any two or more configurations (features) from the embodiments described above may be combined. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0142] 1a, 1b, ... Voting terminals 2 Command ticket 10 Management device 11 Processing Section

Claims

1. A plurality of voting terminals, including a first voting terminal that issues instruction tickets when accepting votes for public sports, and a second voting terminal that, when accepting votes for the public sports, accepts the insertion of the instruction ticket and provides a reward to the user who inserted the instruction ticket, A management device that collects the operational history of the plurality of voting terminals and, based on the operational history, determines which voting terminal will be operated as the first voting terminal and which voting terminal will be operated as the second voting terminal from among the plurality of voting terminals, A voting system that has [a certain feature].

2. The management device determines, based on the amount of votes received by each of the plurality of voting terminals, which voting terminal will be operated as the first voting terminal and which voting terminal will be operated as the second voting terminal. The voting system according to claim 1.

3. The management device notifies the first voting terminal of the frequency of issuing the instruction tickets, The first voting terminal, when accepting votes for the public sports competition, decides whether or not to issue the instruction ticket according to the ticket issuance frequency. The voting system according to claim 1.

Images