Program, information processing device, and information processing method

Abstract

The present invention provides a program, an information processing device, and an information processing method that can improve the convenience of payment. [Solution] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer 70 to function as: a management unit 100 that manages to associate a first payment means with a first user; a determination unit 104 that determines a second user different from the first user; an execution reception unit 106 that receives an operation for executing a first payment using the first payment means; and a first payment control unit 108 that, based on the execution reception unit 106 receiving an operation for executing a first payment, controls the first payment so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid based on the first payment means, and controls the first payment so that the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid based on a second payment means associated with the second user.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] ,

[0006] , , , , , ,

[0005] , , , , ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a program, an information processing apparatus, and an information processing method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for electronically performing so-called sharing of expenses has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for smoothly proceeding with processing and management control such as post-settlement and post-collection.

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, with the technique described in Patent Document 1, the convenience regarding settlement cannot be sufficiently improved. For example, there is room for consideration regarding the control of settlement by a plurality of users when an operation regarding the execution of settlement is performed.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a program, an information processing apparatus, and an information processing method capable of improving the convenience regarding settlement.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A program according to one aspect of this disclosure causes a computer to function as: a management unit that manages to associate a first payment method with a first user; a determination unit that determines a second user different from the first user; an execution reception unit that receives operations related to the execution of a first payment using the first payment method; and a first payment control unit that, based on the execution reception unit receiving operations related to the execution of the first payment, controls the first payment so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid based on the first payment method, and controls the first payment so that the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid based on a second payment method associated with the second user.

[0007] An information processing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a computer that performs the following: associates and manages a first payment method with a first user; acquires decision information regarding a decision of a second user different from the first user; acquires execution information regarding the execution of a first payment using the first payment method; and, based on the acquisition of the execution information, controls the first payment so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid by the first payment method, and controls the first payment so that the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid by a second payment method associated with the second user.

[0008] An information processing method relating to another aspect of this disclosure includes a computer associating and managing a first payment method with a first user; acquiring decision information relating to a decision of a second user different from the first user; acquiring execution information relating to the execution of a first payment using the first payment method; and, based on the acquisition of the execution information, controlling the first payment so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid by the first payment method, and controlling the first payment so that the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid by a second payment method associated with the second user.

[0009] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a program, an information processing device, and an information processing method that can improve the convenience of payment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This diagram shows an overview of System 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of System 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the display screen of the first terminal device 3a according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the operation of the system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the display screen of the first terminal device 3a according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the display screen of the first terminal device 3a according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the display screen of the first terminal device 3a according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the display screen of the first terminal device 3a according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the display screen of the first terminal device 3a according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the display screen of the second terminal device 3b according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of the operation of System 1 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the operation of System 1 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of information referenced by the information processing device 2 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of each device in System 1 according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] <1. Overview> Conventionally, application software that can electronically execute a bill split (hereinafter referred to as an "app") and a bill split function on a payment app having a payment function are known. However, in the prior art, payment at a store and the bill split function may be provided independently (for example, Patent Document 1). That is, according to the prior art, after a user makes a payment at a store, it is necessary to settle with other users using the bill split function. Also, in the prior art, bill splitting can only be done between common payment means (for example, a payment app provided by a common organization, a credit card issued by a common credit card company, and a bank account of a common bank, etc.). Due to these problems, the convenience regarding payment was not sufficiently high.

[0012] According to the system 1 according to this embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as "system 1"), such problems can be solved. Note that this is just an example, and according to system 1, various problems regarding enhancing the convenience regarding payment can be solved.

[0013] Referring to FIG. 1, an operation example of system 1 will be described. System 1 includes an information processing device 2, a first terminal device 3a, a second terminal device 3b, a payment device 4, a first server device 5a, and a second server device 5b. The plurality of terminal devices 3 include a first terminal device 3a that outputs an interface for making a payment and a second terminal device 3b that does not output an interface. The first terminal device 3a is used by a first user u1. The second terminal device 3b is used by a second user u2.

[0014] The first terminal device 3a displays an interface for performing a settlement based on the operation of the first user u1 (S1). The interface is, for example, an image code or the like. At this time, it is assumed that the first user u1 has determined the second user u2 as another user who will participate in the bill splitting. Hereinafter, a plurality of users who participate in the bill splitting (in this example, the first user u1 and the second user u2) are referred to as "bill-splitting members". The settlement device 4 reads the interface by means of a camera or the like. At this time, information regarding the bill-splitting members can be transmitted to the settlement device 4 via the interface.

[0015] In response to reading the interface, the settlement device 4 transmits a notification indicating that a settlement is to be performed (hereinafter referred to as a "settlement notification") to the information processing device 2 (S2). The settlement notification may include information regarding the amount related to the settlement (hereinafter referred to as the "settlement amount") and information regarding the bill-splitting members. That is, the information processing device 2 can grasp the settlement amount and the bill-splitting members based on the settlement notification.

[0016] The information processing device 2 that has received the settlement notification transfers the amount corresponding to the settlement amount (hereinafter referred to as the "transfer amount") to the store or the like associated with the settlement device 4 (S3). Note that the transfer amount may be an amount obtained by subtracting a predetermined fee from the settlement amount.

[0017] In addition, the information processing device 2 that has received the settlement notification determines the amount to be paid by the bill-splitting members (hereinafter referred to as the "bill-splitting amount") based on the settlement amount. Thereafter, the information processing device 2 requests the first server device 5a that provides a service by means of the first settlement means associated with the first user u1 to transfer the bill-splitting amount (S4). When the first settlement means is, for example, a credit card, the information processing device 2 may request the server device that executes the settlement process related to the credit card to transfer the bill-splitting amount.

[0018] Next, the information processing device 2 sends a bill-splitting request to the second terminal device 3b (S5). If the second user u2 approves the bill-splitting request sent to the second terminal device 3b (S6), the information processing device 2 requests the second server device 5b, which manages the second payment method associated with the second user u2, to send the bill-splitting amount (S7). If the second payment method is, for example, an image code payment service, the information processing device 2 may request the server device providing the payment service to send the bill-splitting amount.

[0019] Thus, according to one embodiment, the first terminal device 3a controls the payment so that, upon receiving an operation related to the execution of payment, a portion of the payment amount is paid by the first payment means and the other portion of the payment amount is paid by the second payment means. One example of how the first terminal device 3a controls the payment is to display an image code that causes the payment device 4 to send a payment notification to the information processing device 2 (i.e., causes the information processing device 2 to send a split payment request to the second terminal device 3b).

[0020] This configuration allows users to efficiently perform payments and split bills. Furthermore, this configuration enables users who use different payment methods to split bills.

[0021] In this disclosure, when the first payment method and the second payment method are not specifically distinguished, or when they are referred to collectively, they will simply be referred to as "payment method." Similarly, in this disclosure, when the first user u1 and the second user u2 are not specifically distinguished, or when they are referred to collectively, they will simply be referred to as "user."

[0022] The embodiment of System 1 will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 2-14.

[0023] <2. Functional Configuration> Referring to Figure 2, the functional configuration of System 1 will be described. System 1 includes an information processing device 2, a first terminal device 3a, a second terminal device 3b, a payment device 4, a first server device 5a, a second server device 5b, and a communication network 6. Hereinafter, when the first terminal device 3a and the second terminal device 3b are not specifically distinguished, or when they are referred to collectively, they may be referred to as "Terminal Device 3". Similarly, hereafter, when the first server device 5a and the second server device 5b are not specifically distinguished, or when they are referred to collectively, they may be referred to as "Server Device 5". The information processing device 2, terminal devices 3, payment device 4, and server device 5 are configured to communicate with each other via the communication network 6.

[0024] [Information Processing Device 2] Information processing device 2 is a device that performs processing related to splitting the bill among the members splitting the bill. In one embodiment, information processing device 2 is a server device when terminal device 3 is a client device. In one embodiment, information processing device 2 is a cloud server device. Note that information processing device 2 may be a device that includes, for example, one or more virtual or physical web server devices and one or more virtual or physical database server devices.

[0025] In one embodiment, the information processing device 2 receives a payment notification from the payment device 4 (see S2 in Figure 1). In one embodiment, the information processing device 2 sends a remittance request to the server device 5 (see S4 and S7 in Figure 1). In one embodiment, the information processing device 2 sends a split-the-bill request to the terminal device 3 (see S5 in Figure 1). In one embodiment, the information processing device 2 receives an approval notification for the split-the-bill request from the terminal device 3 (see S6 in Figure 1).

[0026] [Payment device 4] The payment device 4 is a device that performs at least a part of the payment processing via the interface of the terminal device 3. The payment device 4 includes, for example, an image code reader, an NFC module, a Bluetooth communication module, and a UWB (Ultra Wide Band) communication module.

[0027] In one embodiment, the payment device 4 reads an image code displayed on the screen of the terminal device 3 and sends a payment notification to the information processing device 2. In another embodiment, the payment device 4 reads an image code displayed on the screen of the terminal device 3 and sends a remittance request to the server device 5.

[0028] In one embodiment, the payment device 4 transmits a payment notification to the information processing device 2 by communicating with the NFC module of the terminal device 3. In another embodiment, the payment device 4 transmits a remittance request to the server device 5 by communicating with the NFC module of the terminal device 3.

[0029] [Server device 5] Server device 5 is a device managed by an organization that provides payment services. In one embodiment, server device 5 receives a remittance request and makes a remittance based on the request. In one example, server device 5 receives a remittance request from payment device 4 and makes a remittance to the store that manages payment device 4. In another example, server device 5 receives a remittance request from information processing device 2 and makes a remittance to the administrator of information processing device 2.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first server device 5a provides services using the first payment means. That is, at least a portion of the processing related to the transfer of money by a user using the first payment means can be performed by the first server device 5a. In one embodiment, the first server device 5a is managed by the first organization. In this case, the first payment means can also be said to be provided by the first organization.

[0031] In one embodiment, the second server device 5b provides services using the second payment method. That is, at least a portion of the processing related to the transfer of money by the user using the second payment method can be performed by the second server device 5b. In one embodiment, the second server device 5b is managed by a second organization different from the first organization. In this case, the second payment method can also be said to be provided by the second organization.

[0032] [First terminal device 3a] The first terminal device 3a is a communication device used by the first user u1. The first terminal device 3a is, for example, a smartphone, a personal computer, a tablet terminal, or a wearable device. The first terminal device 3a includes an input interface, an output interface, and a communication interface.

[0033] The input interface is an interface for the first terminal device 3a to receive input from the user. The input interface may be a touch panel, microphone, camera, keyboard, mouse, etc.

[0034] The output interface is an interface for transmitting information to the user through images, sound, etc. The output interface includes a display (which may also function as a touch panel) and speakers.

[0035] The communication interface is an interface for enabling communication with other devices via the communication network 6. The communication interface may be a wireless communication interface or a wired communication interface.

[0036] The first terminal device 3a may access services provided by the information processing device 2, for example, via a web browser, or it may access such services by installing dedicated software.

[0037] The first terminal device 3a comprises a control unit 10, a storage unit 12, a network interface unit 14, and a bus 16. The control unit 10, the storage unit 12, and the network interface unit 14 are electrically connected via the bus 16.

[0038] (Control Unit 10) The control unit 10 can function as a management unit 100, a setting reception unit 102, a decision unit 104, an execution reception unit 106, a first settlement control unit 108, an acquisition unit 110, and a second settlement control unit 112 by executing various programs stored in the storage unit 12.

[0039] The management unit 100 associates and manages a first payment method with the first user u1. The first payment method may be the source of payment for goods and / or services received by the first user u1 from a service provider. The first payment method may be, for example, a credit card, bank account, electronic money, and points. Associating and managing the first payment method with the first user u1 includes associating and storing information about the first payment method (for example, credit card number, account number, and information about the account in the linked service for electronic money) with the identification information of the first user u1 (for example, user account ID). Associating and managing the first payment method with the first user u1 is not limited to storing the information associating the payment method with the first user u1 in the first terminal device 3a, but may also involve storing the information in the information processing device 2.

[0040] The determination unit 104 determines a second user u2 who is different from the first user u1. The second user u2 is a user who will be included in the split-the-bill group, as explained with reference to Figure 1. In one embodiment, the determination unit 104 determines the second user u2 based on the input (selection, in one example) of the first user u1. Determining the second user u2 may mean determining the second user u2 as an individual, or it may mean determining a group that includes the second user u2. The determination unit 104 may need to obtain prior consent from the second user u2 in order to determine the second user u2.

[0041] The execution reception unit 106 receives an operation related to the execution of a first payment using the first payment means. In one embodiment, the operation related to the execution of the first payment is an operation that transmits information about the first payment means to the payment device 4. In one example, the operation related to the execution of the first payment is pressing a button to display an image code containing information about the first payment means. In another example, the operation related to the execution of the first payment is pressing a button to transmit information about the first payment means to the payment device 4 via NFC.

[0042] The first settlement control unit 108 controls the first settlement so that a portion of the settlement amount related to the first settlement is paid by the first settlement means, based on the fact that the execution reception unit 106 has received an operation related to the execution of the first settlement, and controls the first settlement so that the remaining portion of the settlement amount related to the first settlement is paid by the second settlement means associated with the second user u2. In one embodiment, controlling the first settlement includes determining one or more payers of the first settlement and the amount to be paid by each payer, and transmitting this to the settlement device 4 and / or information processing device 2. In other words, controlling the first settlement so that a portion of the settlement amount related to the first settlement is paid by the first settlement method, and controlling the first settlement so that the other portion of the settlement amount related to the first settlement is paid by the second settlement method, may include transmitting information to the settlement device 4 and / or information processing device 2 that a portion of the settlement amount of the first settlement (for example, 2,000 yen if the settlement amount is 5,000 yen) should be paid by the first settlement method, and the other portion (for example, 3,000 yen if the settlement amount is 5,000 yen) should be paid by the second settlement method.

[0043] In one embodiment, a first payment method is provided to a first user u1 by a first organization, and a second payment method is provided to a second user u2 by a second organization different from the first organization. In one example, the first organization is a credit card company that provides credit card payment services (an example of the first payment method), and the second organization is a fintech company that provides electronic money payment services (an example of the second payment method). In another example, the first organization is a department within a financial company that provides credit card payment services (an example of the first payment method), and the second organization is a department within the same company that provides online banking services (an example of the second payment method).

[0044] This configuration makes it possible to split the bill even when multiple users each use different payment methods.

[0045] In one embodiment, the first settlement control unit 108 controls the first settlement so that the first user u1 does not have to pay the settlement amount upfront, and a portion of the settlement amount is paid based on the first settlement means. In one embodiment, if the first user u1 is required to pay a first percentage of the settlement amount related to the first settlement, and the second user u2 is required to pay a second percentage of the settlement amount related to the first settlement, the first server device 5a managing the first settlement means does not transfer an amount exceeding the first percentage of the settlement amount for the first settlement. Similarly, the second server device 5b managing the second settlement means does not transfer an amount exceeding the second percentage of the settlement amount for the first settlement.

[0046] This configuration eliminates the need for the first user u1 to pay the payment amount upfront, thus improving the convenience of payments.

[0047] For example, if the settlement amount for the first settlement is 5,000 yen, and the first user u1 is required to pay 2,000 yen (an example of the first percentage of the settlement amount for the first settlement), and the second user u2 is required to pay 3,000 yen (the second percentage of the settlement amount for the first settlement), then the information processing device 2 will send 5,000 yen to the store managing the settlement device 4, the first settlement means will send 2,000 yen to the information processing device 2, and the second settlement means will send 3,000 yen to the information processing device 2. Here, the first settlement means sending 2,000 yen to the information processing device 2 is an example of the first settlement means not sending an amount exceeding the first percentage of the settlement amount. Also, the second settlement means sending 3,000 yen to the information processing device 2 is an example of the second settlement means not sending an amount exceeding the second percentage of the settlement amount. Note that the amounts explained as "5000 yen," "2000 yen," and "3000 yen" in this example can be replaced with the amounts after deducting the handling fee.

[0048] In one embodiment, the setting reception unit 102 is configured to accept the setting of a first interface for using a first payment method. In one embodiment, the setting reception unit 102 accepting the setting of a first interface includes accepting the selection of at least one of a plurality of interfaces by a first user u1. In one example, the first user u1 can select a first interface from a plurality of interfaces, which may include image code, NFC, Bluetooth, UWB, and camera.

[0049] This configuration allows the first user u1 to set up an interface they are familiar with. Furthermore, this configuration allows the first user u1 to appropriately configure the available interfaces even if the store only accepts the use of a specific interface (for example, accepting image codes but not NFC).

[0050] In one embodiment, when the setting reception unit 102 receives a setting for the first interface, the first payment control unit 108 controls the first payment by including at least one of the following: (1) displaying the first interface so that the payment device 4 involved in the first payment can read it; (2) reading the information displayed on the payment device 4 via the first interface; and (3) communicating with the payment device 4 via the first interface. In one example, if the first interface is an image code, the first payment control unit 108 displays the image code on the screen so that the payment device 4 can read it (as in (1) above). In another example, if the first interface is a camera, the first payment control unit 108 reads the image code, etc., displayed on the payment device 4 (as in (2) above). In yet another example, if the first interface is NFC, the first payment control unit 108 communicates with the NFC module of the payment device 4 (as in (3) above).

[0051] In one embodiment, the acquisition unit 110 acquires request information regarding the payment of a portion of the settlement amount related to the second settlement using the second settlement means. In one embodiment, the request information includes information that the second terminal device 3b has received an operation regarding the execution of the second settlement. In one embodiment, the request information includes information that the second user u2 has decided on the first user u1 as a split-bill member. In one embodiment, the request information includes information regarding the payment amount imposed on the first user u1 from the settlement amount related to the second settlement. In one embodiment, the request information includes information related to the first settlement (for example, information about the store where the first settlement was made, information about the time when the first settlement was made, and information about the settlement amount related to the first settlement). In one embodiment, the request information may include identification information of the second user u2 (for example, the name of the second user u2). In one embodiment, the request information is displayed on the first terminal device 3a. The split-bill request described with reference to Figure 1 is an example of request information.

[0052] In one embodiment, the second settlement control unit 112 controls the second settlement based on the request information so that a portion of the settlement amount related to the second settlement is paid based on the first settlement means. One example of controlling the second settlement in this way is to authorize the information processing device 2 to send a remittance request to the first server device 5a that provides the first settlement means. Note that authorizing the information processing device 2 to send a remittance request to the first server device 5a may be done based on the approval of the first user u1.

[0053] With this configuration, when the second user u2 makes a second payment, the first user u1 can participate as a splitter.

[0054] In one embodiment, the second settlement control unit 112 controls the second settlement so that a portion of the settlement amount related to the second settlement is paid based on the first settlement means, regardless of whether the setting reception unit 102 has accepted the setting of the first interface. In other words, even if the first interface for using the first settlement means is not set, the first user u1 can participate in splitting the bill as a member of the splitting group.

[0055] With this configuration, even if the first user u1 has not set up an interface to use the first payment method, they can still participate as a splitter in the second payment made by the second user u2.

[0056] In one embodiment, the setting reception unit 102 is configured to further accept settings for a second interface for using the first payment method. In one example, a first user u1 can set up an image code (an example of the first interface) and NFC (the second interface) in order to use a common credit card payment service (an example of the first payment method). In this case, whether an image code or NFC is used, the first payment is controlled based on the common credit card payment service.

[0057] This configuration allows for the setting of multiple interfaces for a common payment method. This makes it easier for the first user u1 to adapt, for example, if a store only accepts the use of a specific interface.

[0058] In one embodiment, the setting reception unit 102 is configured to accept settings for a first interface in order to use a first payment method and other payment methods different from the first payment method. In this example, a first user u1 can set an image code (an example of the first interface) in order to use a credit card payment service (first payment method) and an electronic money payment service (an example of another payment method). In this case, when the first user u1 makes a first payment using the image code, they may choose whether to use a credit card or electronic money as the payment source.

[0059] This configuration allows multiple payment methods to be set up for a common interface. As a result, the first user u1 can use multiple payment methods with a familiar interface.

[0060] In this disclosure, acquiring information includes making that information processable in the control unit 10. Acquiring information may include, for example, receiving the information from another device, obtaining the information through predetermined processing, and reading the information from the storage unit 12.

[0061] In this disclosure, generating information may consist of at least one of the following: making the information obtained by a predetermined process processable in the control unit 10, and storing the information obtained by the predetermined process in the storage unit 12.

[0062] In this disclosure, determining information may involve at least one of selecting at least one piece of information from among several pieces of information, or generating new information.

[0063] In this disclosure, outputting information may mean at least one of transmitting the information to another device and outputting the information in the form of audio or video.

[0064] (Storage unit 12) The memory unit 12 stores various programs executed by the control unit 10. The memory unit 12 can store various information necessary for the operation of the first terminal device 3a.

[0065] (Network interface section 14) The network interface unit 14 enables communication with other devices via the communication network 6. The network interface unit 14 can communicate with the communication network 6 by at least one of wired communication and wireless communication.

[0066] [Second terminal device 3b] The second terminal device 3b is a communication device used by the second user u2. The second terminal device 3b may have the same configuration as the first terminal device 3a.

[0067] [Communication Network 6] Communication network 6 enables communication between each device included in system 1. In one example, communication network 6 enables communication based on the TCP / IP protocol.

[0068] <3.Operation> [First Embodiment] An example of the operation of System 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 11.

[0069] Figure 3 shows an example of the display screen of the first terminal device 3a in its initial state. The example display screen in Figure 3 shows a payment method setting button d100, an interface setting button d102, a split-payment member selection button d104, and a payment control button d106. The payment method setting button d100 is a button that transitions to the screen for setting the first payment method (Figure 5, described later). The interface setting button d102 is a button that transitions to the screen for setting the interface (Figure 6, described later). The split-payment member selection button d104 is a button that transitions to the screen for selecting members to split the payment (Figure 7, described later). The payment control button d106 is a button that transitions to the screen for controlling the payment (Figure 8, described later). A display screen like the one in Figure 3 can also be called a menu screen.

[0070] (Acceptance of application for setting up the first payment method) Figure 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of System 1. First, the first user u1 presses the payment method setting button d100 on the menu screen shown in Figure 3. In response, the first terminal device 3a displays a screen for setting the first payment method and accepts the setting of the first payment method (Figure 4 S100).

[0071] Figure 5 shows an example of a screen for accepting the setting of the first payment method. The example screen in Figure 5 shows a credit card information input area d200, a registered name input field d202, and a completion button d204.

[0072] The credit card information input area d200 is an area for inputting information related to the first payment method. While this example shows inputting credit card information, the input information related to the first payment method may also include information related to electronic money, bank accounts, etc. Accepting input of information related to the first payment method in this way is an example of associating and managing the first payment method with the first user u1.

[0073] The registration name input field d202 is a field for entering a registration name to identify the information entered in the credit card information input area d200. The registration name can be arbitrarily determined by the first user u1. In this example, "Everyday Credit Card" is entered as the registration name.

[0074] The "Complete" button d204 is used to complete the initial payment information setup. In one example, pressing the "Complete" button d204 will transition to the menu screen shown in Figure 3.

[0075] Similarly, the second terminal device 3b accepts the setting of the second payment method (S101).

[0076] (Accepting interface settings) Next, the first user u1 presses the interface setting button d102 on the menu screen shown in Figure 3. In response, the first terminal device 3a displays a screen for setting the interface and accepts the interface setting (Figure 4 S102).

[0077] Figure 6 shows an example of a screen that accepts interface settings. The example screen in Figure 6 displays an image code enable button d300, an NFC enable button d302, a Bluetooth enable button d304, a payment method for use with image codes d306, a payment method for use with NFC d308, a payment method for use with Bluetooth d310, and a complete button d312.

[0078] The image code enable button d300, the NFC enable button d302, and the Bluetooth enable button d304 are buttons for switching whether or not image codes, NFC, and Bluetooth can be used as interfaces, respectively. In the example display screen in Figure 6, check marks are displayed on the image code enable button d300 and the NFC enable button d302, which corresponds to the selection that image codes and NFC can be used as interfaces. Accepting a press of at least one of the image code enable button d300, the NFC enable button d302, and the Bluetooth enable button d304 is an example of accepting the setting of a first interface for using a first payment method, and is also an example of accepting a selection by a first user u1 for at least one of multiple interfaces.

[0079] The payment methods d306 when using image codes, d308 when using NFC, and d310 when using Bluetooth indicate the first payment method that will be used as the payment source when using image codes, NFC, and Bluetooth, respectively. In the example display screen in Figure 6, "Everyday Credit Card" is displayed for both the payment method d306 when using image codes and the payment method d308 when using NFC. This corresponds to the fact that a credit card registered as "Everyday Credit Card" (see Figure 5) will be used as the first payment method regardless of whether image codes or NFC are used as the interface. Setting a common first payment method for both image codes and NFC in this way is an example of accepting the setting of a first interface for using the first payment method, and the setting of a second interface.

[0080] The "Complete" button d312 is used to complete the interface settings. In one example, pressing the "Complete" button d312 will transition to the menu screen shown in Figure 3.

[0081] (Selection of members to split the bill) Next, the first user u1 presses the bill-splitting member selection button d104 on the menu screen shown in Figure 3. In response, the first terminal device 3a displays a screen for selecting the bill-splitting members and accepts the selection (Figure 4 S104).

[0082] Figure 7 shows an example of a screen that accepts the selection of members for splitting the bill. The example screen in Figure 7 displays a user selection button d400, a user selection button d402, a group selection button d404, and a complete button d406.

[0083] User selection buttons d400 and d402 are buttons for selecting "Mr. / Ms. XX" and "Mr. / Ms. YY" as members to split the bill, respectively. First user u1 can select either "Mr. / Ms. XX" or "Mr. / Ms. YY," or both.

[0084] The group selection button d404 is used to select one or more users belonging to "Group G1" as split-the-bill members. In this example, if the first user u1 presses the group selection button d404, "□□-san" and "△△-san," who belong to "Group G1," will be selected as split-the-bill members.

[0085] In this example, the first user u1 selects "Mr. / Ms. XX" as a split-the-bill member by pressing the user selection button d400. In other words, "Mr. / Ms. XX" becomes the second user u2. Thus, accepting a press on at least one of the user selection buttons d400, user selection button d402, and group selection button d404 is one example of determining a second user u2 who is different from the first user u1, and it is also one example of determining the second user u2 based on the input of the first user u1.

[0086] In this example, we will explain that the first user u1 is included in the split-the-bill group by default. However, the first user u1 may not be included in the split-the-bill group by default, and may only be included when the user selection button corresponding to the first user u1 is pressed, similar to "Mr. / Ms. ○○" and "Mr. / Ms. ××".

[0087] The "Complete" button d406 is used to complete the selection of members for splitting the bill. In one example, pressing the "Complete" button d406 will transition to the menu screen shown in Figure 3.

[0088] (Acceptance of selection of interface for using the first payment method) Next, the first user u1 presses the payment control button d106 on the menu screen shown in Figure 3. In response, the first terminal device 3a accepts the selection of an interface for using the first payment method (Figure 4 S106).

[0089] Figure 8 shows an example of a screen that accepts the selection of an interface for using the first payment method. The example screen in Figure 8 shows the image code button d500 and the NFC button d502. Note that the reason why the image code button d500 and the NFC button d502 are displayed in the example screen in Figure 8, but, for example, the Bluetooth button is not displayed, is because in the screen for configuring the interface (Figure 5), the image code enable button d300 and the NFC enable button d302 had check marks, but the Bluetooth enable button d304 did not.

[0090] The image code button d500 and the NFC button d502 are buttons for selecting image code and NFC, respectively, as interfaces for using the first payment method. In this example, the first user u1 presses the image code button d500. Accepting a press of the image code button d500 is an example of accepting an operation related to executing the first payment using the first payment method.

[0091] The first terminal device 3a displays an image code on the screen based on the fact that the image code button d500 has been pressed (Figure 4 S108).

[0092] Figure 9 shows an example of a screen displaying an image code. In the example screen in Figure 9, the image code d600 is displayed. The first user u1 can proceed with the first payment by having the payment device 4 read the image code d600. Displaying the image code d600 in this way is an example of controlling the first payment so that a portion of the payment amount related to the first payment is paid based on the first payment method, and the remaining portion of the payment amount related to the first payment is paid based on the second payment method associated with the second user u2. Displaying the image code d600 in this way is also an example of displaying the first interface so that the payment device 4 involved in the first payment can read it.

[0093] The payment device 4, having read the image code d600, sends a payment notification to the information processing device 2 (Figure 4, S110). The payment notification may include information necessary for the information processing device 2 to perform processing related to the splitting of the first payment by the first user u1 and the second user u2. The payment notification may include, for example, information indicating that the payment device 4 has read the image code d600 displayed on the first terminal device 3a, information related to the first payment method associated with the image code d600, information related to the user account of the first user u1, and information related to the splitting members.

[0094] (Processing related to splitting the bill) The information processing device 2, upon receiving the payment notification, sends money to the store (S112). If the total amount of consideration that the store should receive from the splitting members (first user u1 and second user u2) is, for example, 5,000 yen, the information processing device 2 sends 5,000 yen or 5,000 yen minus the fee to the store.

[0095] Next, the information processing device 2 requests a remittance from the first server device 5a, which provides the first payment method set by the first user u1 (S114). For example, if the amount to be paid by the first user u1 among the members splitting the bill is 2,000 yen, the information processing device 2 requests the first server device 5a to send 2,000 yen or 2,000 yen minus the handling fee to the administrator of the information processing device 2.

[0096] Next, the information processing device 2 sends a bill splitting request (an example of request information) to the second terminal device 3b (S116). Figure 10 shows an example of the display screen of the second terminal device 3b that has received the bill splitting request. The example display screen in Figure 10 shows the message d800, the payment amount d802, the immediate payment button d804, and the delayed payment button d806.

[0097] Message d800 displays, "You have received a request to split the bill from ●●." "●●" refers to the username of the first user, u1.

[0098] The payment amount d802 indicates the amount that the second user u2 should pay among the members splitting the bill. In this example, it indicates that the amount that the second user u2 should pay is 3000 yen.

[0099] The immediate payment button d804 is for sending money in an immediate response to a split payment request. The delayed payment button d806 is for sending money after a period of time has passed in response to a split payment request. If the user presses the delayed payment button d806, the second terminal device 3b may receive input from the second user u2 regarding the timing of the payment.

[0100] Upon receiving the request to split the bill, the second terminal device 3b accepts the approval of the split bill (Figure 4, S118). Accepting the press of the immediate payment button d804 or the delayed payment button d806 in the example display screen of Figure 10 is one example of accepting the approval of the split bill.

[0101] Next, the second terminal device 3b sends an approval notification to the information processing device 2 regarding the approval of splitting the bill (S120). In response, the information processing device 2 requests a remittance from the second server device 5b, which provides the second payment method set by the second user u2 (S122). In one example, the amount to be paid by the second user u2 among the bill-splitting members is 3,000 yen, so the information processing device 2 requests the second server device 5b to send 3,000 yen or 3,000 yen minus the fee to the administrator of the information processing device 2.

[0102] [Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, an example was described in which the first user u1 makes the first payment and the second user u2 participates in the first payment as a splitter. In the second embodiment, an example is described in which the second user u2 makes the second payment and the first user u1 participates in the second payment as a splitter.

[0103] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the operation of System 1. In Figure 11, the second terminal device 3b performs the same processing as the first terminal device 3a, as described with reference to Figure 4. Also in Figure 11, the first terminal device 3a performs the same processing as the second terminal device 3b, as described with reference to Figure 4. That is, the first terminal device 3a may have the same functions as the second terminal device 3b, and the second terminal device 3b may have the same functions as the first terminal device 3a.

[0104] [Third Embodiment] In the first and second embodiments, examples in which the first terminal device 3a and the second terminal device 3b interact with the payment device 4 have been described, but the invention is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the information processing device 2 also performs splitting of the bill with respect to the first payment made by the first user u1 using a credit card. In one embodiment, the information processing device 2 manages to associate a first payment means with the first user u1, obtains decision information regarding the determination of a second user u2 who is different from the first user u1, obtains execution information regarding the execution of the first payment using the first payment means, and, based on the acquisition of the execution information, controls the first payment so that a portion of the payment amount related to the first payment is paid based on the first payment means, and controls the first payment so that the other portion of the payment amount related to the first payment is paid based on the second payment means associated with the second user.

[0105] Figure 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of System 1 according to the third embodiment. First, the payment device 4 accepts the use of a credit card by the first user u1 (S300). The payment device 4 accepts the use of a credit card, for example, by contactless payment.

[0106] Next, the payment device 4 transmits a payment notification to the information processing device 2 (S302). This payment notification may include, for example, information about the credit card used. The information processing device 2 receiving the payment notification is an example of obtaining execution information regarding the execution of the first payment using the first payment method.

[0107] The information processing device 2 makes a transfer to the store based on the payment notification (S303). Next, the information processing device 2 determines whether or not the credit card used is associated with the execution of a split payment process (S304). In this case, the information processing device 2 may make this determination by referring to a database that it can access. This database may record information about the payment method, information about whether or not to execute a split payment process, and, if the split payment process is executed, information about the members who will be splitting the payment.

[0108] Figure 13 shows an example of a database that the information processing device 2 can refer to when determining whether or not a transaction related to splitting the bill is associated with it. This information can be set by the user via the terminal device 3.

[0109] According to the table in Figure 13, the user of the credit card with credit card number "#1" is the first user u1, and when this credit card is used for payment, the system is configured to execute the bill-splitting process with the first user u1 and the second user u2 as bill-splitting members.

[0110] Furthermore, the user of the credit card with credit card number "#2" is the first user u1, and the system is configured not to perform the split-the-bill process when this credit card is used for payment.

[0111] Furthermore, the user of the credit card with credit card number "#3" is the second user u2, and when this credit card is used for payment, it is configured to execute the bill-splitting process with users belonging to group G1 as the bill-splitting members.

[0112] A credit card is an example of a primary payment method. Associating and remembering credit cards with credit card numbers "#1" and "#2" for a first user u1 is an example of associating and managing a primary payment method for a first user u1.

[0113] Based on the credit card number of the credit card used, identifying the members who would split the bill if that credit card were used for payment is one example of obtaining decision information regarding the decision of a second user u2, which is different from that of the first user u1.

[0114] If a credit card used is associated with the execution of a split payment process, the information processing device 2 requests the first server device 5a and the second server device 5b to perform the split payment process (Figure 12 alt, upper panel). This is an example of controlling the first payment so that a portion of the payment amount related to the first payment is paid by the first payment method, and controlling the first payment so that the remaining portion of the payment amount related to the first payment is paid by the second payment method.

[0115] In contrast, if the credit card used is not associated with a transaction related to splitting the bill, the information processing device 2 will send a remittance request only to the first server device 5a so that the full amount is paid using that credit card (Figure 12 alt, bottom panel).

[0116] In the third embodiment, an example of the first payment method was described as a credit card, but it is not limited to this.

[0117] <4. Hardware Configuration> Referring to Figure 14, an example of a hardware configuration when the devices included in System 1 described above are implemented by computer 70 will be explained. Note that the functions of each device can also be implemented by dividing them among multiple devices.

[0118] As shown in Figure 14, the computer 70 includes a processor 700, a storage device 702, an input interface 704, a data interface 706, a communication interface 708, and a display device 710.

[0119] The processor 700 controls various processes in the computer 70 by executing programs stored in the storage device 702. For example, each functional unit of the control unit 10 of the information processing device 2 can be realized by the processor 700 executing programs stored in the storage device 702.

[0120] The storage device 702 is a storage medium such as RAM (Random Access Memory). RAM temporarily stores the program code of the program executed by the processor 700, as well as data required during program execution.

[0121] The storage device 702 can also be a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or flash memory. The storage device 702 stores the operating system and various programs for realizing the above configurations. The storage medium storing these various programs may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In addition, the storage device 702 can also store tables for registering various information and a database for managing those tables. Such programs and data are loaded into the storage device 702 as needed and accessed by the processor 700.

[0122] The input interface 704 is a device for receiving input from the user. Specific examples of the input interface 704 include cameras, buttons, microphones, keyboards, mice, touch panels, various sensors, and wearable devices. The input interface 704 may be connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0123] The data interface 706 is a device for inputting data from outside the computer 70. Specific examples of the data interface 706 include drive devices for reading data stored on various storage media. The data interface 706 may also be located outside the computer 70. In that case, the data interface 706 would be connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as USB.

[0124] The communication interface 708 is a device for communicating data with external devices of the computer 70 via a communication network 6, either wired or wirelessly. The communication interface 708 may also be located outside the computer 70. In that case, the communication interface 708 would be connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as USB.

[0125] The display device 710 is a device for displaying various types of information. Specific examples of the display device 710 include liquid crystal displays, organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) displays, and displays for wearable devices. The display device 710 may be located outside the computer 70. In that case, the display device 710 is connected to the computer 70 via, for example, a display cable. Furthermore, if a touch panel is used as the input I / F 704, the display device 710 can be configured as an integrated unit with the input I / F 704.

[0126] Furthermore, the components of the device included in the System 1 described above are such that a program stored in the storage device 702 is executed by the processor 700, thereby realizing a defined process in cooperation with other hardware. In other words, these components are conceived as both software or firmware, and as corresponding hardware, and in both concepts, they are also described and interpreted as "function," "means," "part," "processing circuit," "unit," or "module," etc.

[0127] <5. Variation> The embodiments described above are provided to facilitate understanding of this disclosure and are not intended to limit it. The configurations that the embodiments may have are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, configurations shown in different embodiments can be partially substituted or combined.

[0128] The flow of information transmission and reception described in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. For example, in the above embodiment, the payment notification transmitted from the payment device 4 to the information processing device 2 was described as potentially including information about the first payment means associated with the interface, information about the user account of the first user u1, and information about the members splitting the bill. However, this information may also be transmitted from the first terminal device 3a to the information processing device 2 (without going through the payment device 4).

[0129] In the above embodiment, the amount each member pays may be an equal division of the total payment amount, a specific amount set by the user, or an amount calculated by dividing the total payment amount based on a percentage set by the user.

[0130] The payment device 4 in the above embodiment is not an electrically operated device, but may be, for example, a plastic plate with an image code attached or printed on it.

[0131] The information processing device 2 described in the above embodiment may be managed by the store, the first organization, or the second organization. In one example, the information processing device 2 may be a device included in the payment device 4, the first server device 5a, or the second server device 5b.

[0132] <6. Example Configuration> This disclosure includes the following technologies:

[0133] [Note 1] A program that causes computer 70 to function as a management unit 100 that manages to associate a first payment method with a first user, a determination unit 104 that determines a second user different from the first user, an execution reception unit 106 that receives operations related to the execution of a first payment using the first payment method, and a first payment control unit 108 that, based on the execution reception unit 106 receiving operations related to the execution of a first payment, controls the first payment so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid using the first payment method, and controls the first payment so that the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid using a second payment method associated with the second user.

[0134] [Note 2] The program described in Appendix 1, wherein the first payment method is provided to the first user by the first organization, and the second payment method is provided to the second user by a second organization different from the first organization.

[0135] [Note 3] The first settlement control unit 108 is a program as described in Appendix 1 or 2, which controls the first settlement so that the first user does not have to pay the amount related to the first settlement upfront, and a portion of the amount is paid based on the first settlement method.

[0136] [Note 4] The computer 70 is further configured to function as a setting reception unit 102 capable of receiving settings for a first interface for using a first payment method, and when the setting reception unit 102 receives the settings for the first interface, the first payment control unit 108 controls the first payment, which includes at least one of the following: displaying the first interface so that a payment device involved in the first payment can read it; reading the information displayed on the payment device via the first interface; and communicating with the payment device via the first interface, as described in any one of the programs in Appendix 1 to 3.

[0137] [Note 5] The program described in Appendix 4, wherein the setting reception unit 102 accepts the setting of the first interface, which includes accepting a selection by the first user for at least one of multiple interfaces.

[0138] [Note 6] The program described in Appendix 4 or 5 further causes the computer 70 to function as an acquisition unit 110 that acquires request information regarding the payment of a portion of the amount related to the second settlement using the second settlement means, and a second settlement control unit 112 that controls the second settlement based on the request information so that a portion of the amount related to the second settlement is paid by the first settlement means.

[0139] [Note 7] The second settlement control unit 112 controls the second settlement so that a portion of the amount related to the second settlement is paid based on the first settlement means, regardless of whether the setting reception unit 102 has accepted the setting of the first interface, as described in Appendix 6.

[0140] [Note 8] The setting reception unit 102 is a program described in any one of appendices 4 to 7, which is configured to further accept settings for a second interface for using the first payment method.

[0141] [Note 9] The setting reception unit 102 is a program described in any one of appendices 4 to 8, which is configured to accept settings for the first interface in order to use a first payment method and other payment methods different from the first payment method.

[0142] [Note 10] The determination unit 104 is a program described in any one of appendices 1 to 9, which determines the second user based on the input of the first user.

[0143] [Note 11] Information processing device 2 includes a computer 70 that performs the following: associating and managing a first payment method with a first user; acquiring decision information regarding decisions of a second user different from the first user; acquiring execution information regarding the execution of a first payment using the first payment method; and, based on the acquisition of the execution information, controlling the first payment so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid using the first payment method, and controlling the first payment so that the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid using a second payment method associated with the second user.

[0144] [Note 12] An information processing method in which a computer 70 performs the following actions: associates and manages a first payment method with a first user; obtains decision information regarding a decision of a second user different from the first user; obtains execution information regarding the execution of a first payment using the first payment method; and, based on the acquisition of the execution information, controls the first payment so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid using the first payment method, and controls the first payment so that another portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid using a second payment method associated with the second user. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0145] 1...System, 2...Information Processing Device, 3a...First Terminal Device, 3b...Second Terminal Device, 4...Payment Device, 5a...First Server Device, 5b...Second Server Device, 10...Control Unit, 12...Storage Unit, 70...Computer, 100...Management Unit, 102...Setting Reception Unit, 104...Decision Unit, 106...Execution Reception Unit, 108...First Payment Control Unit, 110...Acquisition Unit, 112...Second Payment Control Unit, 700...Processor

Claims

1. Computers, A management department that associates and manages the first payment method with the first user, A determination unit that determines a second user different from the first user, An execution reception unit that receives operations related to the execution of a first settlement using the first settlement means, Based on the fact that the execution reception unit has received an operation relating to the execution of the first settlement, the first settlement control unit controls the first settlement so that a portion of the amount relating to the first settlement is paid by the first settlement means, and controls the first settlement so that the remaining portion of the amount relating to the first settlement is paid by the second settlement means associated with the second user, A program that makes something function as such.

2. The first payment method is provided to the first user by the first organization, The program according to claim 1, wherein the second payment means is provided to the second user by a second organization different from the first organization.

3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the first settlement control unit controls the first settlement so that a portion of the amount related to the first settlement is paid based on the first settlement means without the first user having to pay the amount upfront.

4. The aforementioned computer, It is further configured to function as a setting reception unit capable of accepting settings for the first interface for using the first payment method, The program according to claim 1, wherein when the setting reception unit receives the setting of the first interface, the first settlement control unit controls the first settlement by including at least one of: displaying the first interface so that a settlement device involved in the first settlement can read it; reading information displayed on the settlement device via the first interface; and communicating with the settlement device via the first interface.

5. The program according to claim 4, wherein the setting reception unit receiving the setting of the first interface includes receiving a selection by a first user for at least one of a plurality of interfaces.

6. The aforementioned computer, An acquisition unit that acquires request information regarding the payment of a portion of the amount related to the second settlement using the second settlement means, A second settlement control unit controls the second settlement so that a portion of the amount related to the second settlement is paid by the first settlement means based on the request information, The program according to claim 4, which further functions as such.

7. The program according to claim 6, wherein the second settlement control unit controls the second settlement so that a portion of the amount related to the second settlement is paid based on the first settlement means, regardless of whether the setting reception unit has accepted the setting of the first interface.

8. The program according to claim 4, wherein the setting reception unit is configured to further accept settings for a second interface for using the first payment means.

9. The program according to claim 4, wherein the setting reception unit is configured to accept settings for the first interface in order to use the first payment means and other payment means different from the first payment means.

10. The program according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines the second user based on the input of the first user.

11. To associate and manage the first payment method with the first user, To obtain decision information regarding the decisions of a second user, who is different from the first user, To obtain execution information relating to the execution of the first settlement using the first settlement means, Based on the acquisition of the execution information, the first payment is controlled so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid by the first payment method, and the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is controlled so that it is paid by the second payment method associated with the second user. An information processing device equipped with a computer that performs [some action].

12. Computers To associate and manage the first payment method with the first user, To obtain decision information regarding the decisions of a second user, who is different from the first user, To obtain execution information relating to the execution of the first settlement using the first settlement means, Based on the acquisition of the execution information, the first payment is controlled so that a portion of the amount related to the first payment is paid by the first payment method, and the remaining portion of the amount related to the first payment is controlled so that it is paid by the second payment method associated with the second user. An information processing method that performs [this action].

Images