Payment system

Abstract

The aim is to improve convenience in payment systems. [Solution] The second payment information acquisition unit 101 of the service provider server 1 acquires the second payment information. The value conversion unit 102 performs a process to convert the second value indicated by the second value information into the first value. The third payment information provision unit 103 provides the first payment information, the first value information indicating the use of the first value converted by the value conversion means, and customer information to the QR code (registered trademark) payer server 5 as third payment information. The third payment information acquisition unit 501 of the QR code payer server 5 acquires the third payment information. The payment processing execution unit 502 settles the customer for a predetermined price of goods, etc., using the first value, based on the third payment information.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , , , , , ,

[0003] , , ,

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been a payment system that performs payment by reading a barcode (for example, a QR code (registered trademark), which is an example of a two-dimensional barcode) placed at a store with a customer's terminal.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the payment system using the above-mentioned QR code, each payer who operates the payment system has separately maintained the infrastructure of the payment system. That is, for example, each payer had to construct a payment system and have the store introduce the payment system. At this time, for the store, it was necessary to provide various information of the store itself to the payer and place a QR code at the storefront, which required a considerable cost. In addition, when introducing a payment system with new features, it was necessary to construct a system and introduce it to the store separately from the conventional payment system. As a result, there are currently many payment systems using various QR codes. That is, although convenience in introducing a new payment system is desired, the current situation is not sufficient. As will be explained in more detail later, if it becomes possible to settle payments using a value different from the conventional price of goods, then new service developments can be achieved, resulting in unique features and convenience in payments. However, as mentioned above, introducing a payment system that allows settlements using such new values ​​will require considerable effort.

[0005] This invention has been made in view of these circumstances and aims to improve convenience in payment systems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objective, a payment system according to one aspect of the present invention is: A product transferor terminal operated by a product transferor who transfers specified goods or services to a customer as goods, etc., for a specified price, A settlement terminal operated by a settlement agent who settles the aforementioned goods, etc. at a first value, settles the aforementioned predetermined price to the aforementioned customer, A customer terminal operated by the aforementioned customer, When the customer uses the second value for payment of the aforementioned goods, etc., the payment agent terminal operated by the payment agent that requests the payment agent to make a payment for the first value, A settlement medium held by the transferor of the goods and to which first settlement information is attached, including information necessary to allow the settlement party to settle the matter at the first value, and information that can identify the transferor of the goods; In a payment system equipped with, The aforementioned customer terminal is A means for acquiring a second value that acquires the right to use the second value at least the predetermined consideration, A first payment information acquisition means for acquiring the aforementioned first payment information, A second payment information providing means that provides the first payment information, the second value information indicating the use of the second value corresponding to the predetermined consideration, and the customer information that can identify the customer as the second payment information to the payment agent terminal, Equipped with, The aforementioned payment processing terminal is A second payment information acquisition means for acquiring the aforementioned second payment information, Value conversion means that performs a process of converting the second value indicated by the second value information into the first value, A third payment information providing means that provides the first payment information, the first value information indicating the use of the first value converted by the value conversion means, and the customer information as third payment information to the payer terminal, The aforementioned payment terminal is A third payment information acquisition means for acquiring the aforementioned third payment information, A settlement processing execution means that performs a process to settle the predetermined price of the goods, etc., to the customer at the first value, based on the third settlement information, It is equipped with. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the convenience when introducing a new payment system. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an overview of a service (hereinafter referred to as "the Service") that can be realized by an information processing system of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure shows the configuration of one embodiment of the information processing system of the present invention. [Figure 3] This block diagram shows an example of the hardware configuration of service provider server 1 in the information processing system shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system. [Figure 5] Figure 1 shows an example of a form used for distributing local currency in a local currency campaign, utilizing this service. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the screen of a regional payment app installed on a customer's terminal, using the form shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7]FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen related to local currency in the local PAY app. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen when a charging operation is performed in the local PAY app and local currency is charged from the sheet shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is an example of a menu screen related to the local currency shown in FIG. 7 after charging the local currency. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the state of payment at a store. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the local currency app after payment at the store shown in FIG. 10.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of this service that can be realized by an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] The exchange of information and the like among those who use this service will be described along each step in FIG. 1. This service supports settlement with other values instead of the conventionally used value when providing a predetermined product or service as a product or the like at a predetermined consideration. That is, for example, conventionally, cash and electronic money have a value equivalent to legal tender and function as a means of payment for a predetermined consideration. For example, cash (currency) of legal tender in a certain country circulates at the value of the unit of legal tender (for example, yen) in that country.

[0011] In this service, in addition to the conventional customer C, store S, and QR code payer QP, the local government PE that intends to provide a service that provides other values and the service provider SA of this service exchange various information. In this context, Customer C in this service is a person who intends to purchase a specified product or service as a product or service at a specified price. Customer C uses this service by operating a device such as a smartphone that they own (for example, Customer Terminal 3 in Figure 2). Furthermore, store S is the entity that provides goods, etc., to customer C at a predetermined price. Store S records the payment status at store S by operating a POS system (for example, store terminal 4 in Figure 2). Traditionally, customer C and store S have settled the predetermined price of goods, etc., using cash or electronic money, as described above, and the goods, etc., are provided to customer C in return.

[0012] Here, the QR code payment provider QP is the entity that settles payments to customer C for a predetermined price of goods, etc., using the first value. That is, the QR code payment provider QP conducts its payment business using the value of legal tender units (e.g., yen) as the first value. Specifically, for example, conventionally, the QR code payment provider QP provides its payment system to store S and customer C. Specifically, for example, plates with QR codes prepared by the QR code payment provider QP are placed in store S. Then, store S and customer C make payments using the QR code payment application software (hereinafter referred to as the "QR code payment app") provided by the QR code payment provider QP. However, in the payment system according to one embodiment of the present invention, customer C does not directly use the QR code payment application provided by QR code payer QP, but can use the payment system provided by QR code payer QP via the service provider SA of this service. As a result, service provider SA can offer the service relatively easily without having to solicit store S to use it or install payment terminals or QR codes in store S. Similarly, store S can also easily implement the service compared to introducing a new payment system.

[0013] Furthermore, local government entities (PEs) may conduct campaigns to encourage the use of retail stores (stores S) within the specific area under their jurisdiction (for example, at the prefectural or municipal level). The following explanation assumes that a local government PE conducts a campaign to issue a currency usable only at stores S within that specific area. In other words, a local government public entity (PE) uses its own budget as a source to either transfer local currency for a fee to residents of that specific area (for example, selling local currency worth 12,000 yen for 10,000 yen) or to transfer it free of charge to those staying in that specific area (for example, distributing coupons to guests that can be used at nearby stores for 3,000 yen). Traditionally, tickets usable only in specific regions were often distributed in the form of physical tickets. This type of distribution, however, made ticket management cumbersome for stores and local governments, and was incompatible with the cashless payment systems (such as QR code payments) that have become increasingly common in recent years. Unlike the first type of value, this service utilizes a second type of value—availability only in specific regions—to provide a highly convenient payment system usable at stores S within those specific regions.

[0014] In other words, this service offers the following advantages: First, this service can help local government public entities (PEs) reduce costs. Specifically, distributing local currency involved many costs such as issuing and selling tickets, managing tickets, cashing in tickets collected at stores S, and managing stores S. This service eliminates many of these costs by using a payment system with QR code payers (QPs).

[0015] Furthermore, this service has the potential to continuously benefit local communities. Specifically, as will be explained in more detail later, by using this service to utilize the local currency of a particular region, points usable only in that region can be redistributed. This can potentially improve the circulation of money within that region beyond the face value of the local currency.

[0016] Furthermore, this service is designed to be easily accessible to retailers (Store S). Specifically, Store S is freed from the complexities of managing local currency tickets, etc., and does not need to register account information for a new cashless payment service or install equipment (terminals, QR codes, etc.) for a new cashless payment service. In other words, Store S can easily participate in local currency campaigns and other related activities.

[0017] Furthermore, this service can improve customer C's satisfaction with contributing to the local community. Specifically, as mentioned above, the ease with which stores S can participate increases the number of stores S that can use the service. As a result, customer C will have access to more stores S that accept the local currency, further enhancing their sense of contributing to the local community.

[0018] The following explains the flow of using this service, using Figure 1. First, as a prerequisite, as shown in step ST11, the QR code payer QP installs the QR code payment system at store S. That is, store S is equipped with plates bearing the QR code provided by the QR code payer QP, and the payment system becomes available for use. At this time, store S's account information is also provided to the QR code payer QP and managed as appropriate.

[0019] Next, as shown in step ST12, store S registers with the local government PE to participate in the local currency campaign. The local government PE verifies that store S is a store in a specific area and manages store S as a participating store in the campaign.

[0020] Next, as shown in step ST13, store S participates in the service provided by service provider SA. Specifically, for example, assuming that local government PE will use the service for the campaign, store S provides service provider SA with store information, including store S's information and information including QR codes provided by QR code payer QP. Service provider SA manages store information as eligible store information if store S is an eligible store for the campaign based on information provided by the local government PE. At this time, service provider SA obtains and manages the QR code assigned to store S by QR code payer QP.

[0021] Next, as shown in step ST21, the local government PE transfers the local currency to customer C. Specifically, for example, the local government PE may transfer the local currency for a fee to residents of a particular area (for example, selling local currency that can be used for purchases worth 12,000 yen for 10,000 yen) or transfer it free of charge to those staying in that particular area (for example, distributing coupons to guests that can be used at nearby stores for 3,000 yen).

[0022] Next, as shown in step ST22, customer C registers for the service provided by service provider SA and manages local currency (secondary value). Here, the form labeled "Local Currency Campaign" has two QR codes printed on it. The first QR code contains information such as a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) for installing dedicated application software (hereinafter referred to as "dedicated app") for using this service. Customer C installs the dedicated app on their device by scanning the first QR code. Furthermore, through the My Page registration function provided by the service provider SA, customer C can create their own My Page and manage their own user information (customer information).

[0023] Furthermore, the second QR code is used to reflect the local currency transferred via the dedicated app. Specifically, the second QR code contains information such as the amount of local currency (the size of the second value) and a unique serial code. Customer C can manage the transferred local currency on the dedicated app by scanning the second QR code using the dedicated app. Specifically, local currency can be charged using the charge function provided by service provider SA. In other words, the local currency (second value) is associated with and managed in customer information for customer C. In addition to local currency (second value), this service also allows you to charge regular currency (first value) and make payments using both first and second value simultaneously. However, for the sake of simplicity, the following explanation will assume that only second value is charged and that purchases are made using only second value.

[0024] Next, as shown in step ST31, when customer C purchases goods at store S, they launch a dedicated app and have the QR code paymenter QP scan the QR code placed at store S. This provides customer C with information that identifies store S.

[0025] Next, as shown in step ST32, customer C enters the price of the goods, etc. (first value) on the dedicated app. Then, the information of the QR code placed in store S, provided in step ST31, along with the price of the goods, etc., and information identifying customer C, is provided to the service provider SA.

[0026] Next, as shown in step ST33, the service provider SA checks whether customer C possesses local currency (secondary value) in excess of the price of goods, etc. (firstary value), and whether store S is designated as a campaign-eligible store by the local government PE. If customer C possesses local currency (secondary value) that exceeds the price of the goods or services (firstary value), and store S is designated as a participating store in the campaign by the local government's PE, the verification will determine that payment is permitted.

[0027] If it is determined that payment is permitted, as shown in step ST34, the service provider SA will make a payment to the QR code payer QP using the QR code placed in store S by the QR code payer QP at the price of the goods, etc. (first value). Next, as shown in step ST35, the QR code payer QP sends a notification that the payment has been completed.

[0028] Next, as shown in step ST36, the service provider SA deducts an amount equivalent to the price of the goods used for payment (first value) from the local currency (second value) of customer C associated with the customer information. Then, as shown in step ST37, the service provider SA notifies customer C that the payment has been completed and the amount of local currency (second value) after the payment has been completed. As a result, customer C has completed payment of the prescribed price for the goods, etc., to store S.

[0029] Furthermore, as shown in step ST41, local government PEs can check the usage status of local currency and other information by accessing the service provider SA's system via a web browser or the like when necessary. Furthermore, as shown in step ST42, the QR code payer QP will, as appropriate, transfer the predetermined payment (in some cases, the amount minus the QR code payment fee) to the store S. Thus, for store S, there is no difference in payment whether the service provided by QR code payer QP is used directly or this service is used, so the convenience of fund management and other aspects is not compromised.

[0030] Although not shown in the diagram, the funds to be paid by the QR code payer QP to the store S may be transferred at any point in time. Specifically, for example, in step ST34, the service provider SA or local government PE may process the transfer of funds electronically when providing them to the QR code payer. Alternatively, for example, the funds may be totaled on a predetermined date, and the service provider SA or local government PE may process the transfer of funds electronically to the QR code payer QP.

[0031] The overview of this service was explained above using Figure 1. The configuration of the information processing system related to the provision of this service will be explained below using Figures 2 to 4.

[0032] Figure 2 shows the configuration of one embodiment of the information processing system of the present invention. The information processing system shown in Figure 3 is configured to include a service provider server 1, a local government terminal 2, a customer terminal 3, a store terminal 4, and a QR code payment server 5.

[0033] The service provider server 1, the local government terminal 2, the customer terminal 3, the store terminal 4, and the QR code payment server 5 are all interconnected via a predetermined network NW such as the Internet.

[0034] The service provider server 1 is an information processing device managed by the service provider SA. The service provider server 1 performs various processes necessary to realize this service while communicating as needed with the local government terminal 2, the customer terminal 3, the store terminal 4, and the QR code payment server 5.

[0035] Service provider server 1 is managed by service provider SA and is responsible for managing and exchanging various information related to the provision of this service. In other words, the exchange of various information that was previously done via service provider SA in Figure 1 is now done via service provider server 1.

[0036] Local government terminal 2 is an information processing device used by local government personnel (PEs) and other relevant personnel. Customer terminal 3 is an information processing device such as a smartphone used by customer C. Store terminal 4 is an information processing device used by staff members of store S. For example, staff members of store S can use store terminal 4 to register for this service or to check sales in local currency.

[0037] The QR code payer server 5 is an information processing device managed by the QR code payer QP. In other words, the QR code payer server 5 is a server related to the QR code payment system operated by the QR code payer QP. Furthermore, the exchange of information between the parties in the explanation of Figure 1 is basically carried out through the information processing equipment owned by each party.

[0038] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of service provider server 1 in the information processing system shown in Figure 2.

[0039] The service provider server 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0040] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the program recorded in the ROM 12 or the program loaded into the RAM 13 from the storage unit 18. RAM13 also stores data necessary for the CPU11 to perform various processes.

[0041] The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14. An output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20 are connected to the input / output interface 15.

[0042] The output unit 16 is composed of a display such as an LCD and displays various images. The input unit 17 consists of various hardware buttons and the like, and inputs various information according to the operator's instructions and operations.

[0043] The memory unit 18 is composed of DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and stores various types of data. The communications unit 19 controls communication with other devices via a network NW, including the Internet.

[0044] A drive 20 is provided as needed. A removable media 41, consisting of a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory, is appropriately mounted on the drive 20. Programs read from the removable media 41 by the drive 20 are installed in the storage unit 28 as needed. The removable media 41 can also store various data stored in the storage unit 28, just like the storage unit 28.

[0045] Although not shown in the diagram, the local government terminal 2, customer terminal 3, store terminal 4, and QR code payment server 5 in the information processing system of Figure 3 also have the hardware configuration shown in Figure 3. The customer terminal 3 and store terminal 4 may be smartphones or similar devices equipped with a touch panel integrating the output unit 16 and input unit 17.

[0046] Through the collaboration of various hardware and software components of the service provider server 1, local government terminal 2, customer terminal 3, store terminal 4, and QR code payment server 5 as shown in Figure 3, various processes can be executed on the service provider server 1, local government terminal 2, customer terminal 3, store terminal 4, and QR code payment server 5. As a result, the service provider SA can provide the aforementioned service to user company UC and customer C.

[0047] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system shown in Figure 3.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4, the service provider server 1 has at least a second payment information acquisition unit 101, a value conversion unit 102, and a third payment information provision unit 103 in operation. Furthermore, one area of ​​the storage unit 18 of the service provider server 1 is equipped with a store information DB 151 and a customer information DB 152. Furthermore, in the customer terminal 3, at least the second value acquisition unit 301, the first payment information acquisition unit 302, and the second payment information provision unit 303 are functional. Furthermore, in the QR code payment server 5, at least the third payment information acquisition unit 501 and the payment processing execution unit 502 are functional.

[0049] In steps ST11 to ST13 of Figure 1, the service provider server 1 acquires store information for the store S that is the target of this service. The acquired store information is stored and managed in advance in the store information DB 151.

[0050] Furthermore, in steps ST21 and ST22 of Figure 1, the service provider server 1 acquires customer information about customer C. The acquired customer information is stored and managed in the customer information DB 152 in advance. Customer information includes various details about customer C, such as their name, and information such as the balance of their local currency (secondary value). The following describes the functions performed by each functional block in steps ST31 to ST37 of Figure 1.

[0051] The second value acquisition unit 301 of the customer terminal 3 acquires the right to use local currency (second value) equal to or greater than the predetermined price of the goods, etc. That is, the second value acquisition unit 301 acquires the right to use local currency equal to or greater than the predetermined price of the goods, etc. that customer C is trying to pay for. Specifically, the second value acquisition unit 301 stores, for example, the second QR code printed on the local currency campaign form read by customer C's operation as customer information managed by the service provider server 1. The second value acquisition unit 301 can also acquire, based on the customer information managed by the service provider server 1, that customer C currently has the right to use local currency equal to or greater than the predetermined price of the goods, etc.

[0052] The first payment information acquisition unit 302 acquires the QR code placed in the store S where the payment is to be made as the first payment information.

[0053] The second payment information provision unit 303 provides the QR code payment server 5 with the first payment information, the second value information indicating the use of the second value corresponding to the predetermined consideration, and customer information that can identify customer C as the second payment information. The second payment information is provided to the QR code payment server 5 via the service provider server 1. At this time, the service provider server 1 determines whether or not the payment based on the second payment information is valid (step ST33 in Figure 1). The following explanation will continue assuming that the payment based on the second payment information is deemed valid.

[0054] The second payment information acquisition unit 101 of the service provider server 1 acquires the second payment information.

[0055] The value conversion unit 102 performs a process to convert the second value, indicated by the second value information, into the first value. That is, the value conversion unit 102 uses the first value, which corresponds to the second value such as local currency, to make a settlement with store S.

[0056] The third payment information provision unit 103 provides the QR code payment server 5 with the first payment information, the first value information indicating the use of the first value converted by the value conversion means, and customer information as third payment information. Specifically, the third payment information provision unit 103 provides the QR code payment server 5 with information for making a payment to store S using the first value for customer C identified by the customer information.

[0057] The third payment information acquisition unit 501 of the QR code payment server 5 acquires the third payment information. The settlement processing unit 502 executes a process to settle the predetermined price of goods, etc., for customer C at the first value, based on the third settlement information.

[0058] In this way, the local currency (second value) is managed on the service provider server 1, and a conversion from the second value to the first value is performed, and payment is made in the first value using the QR code payment server 5.

[0059] The configuration of the information processing system related to the provision of this service has been explained above using Figures 2 to 4. The following describes the flow of operations performed by customer C on customer terminal 3 when using this service, using Figures 5 to 12.

[0060] Figure 5 shows an example of a form used for distributing local currency in a local currency campaign, utilizing the service shown in Figure 1. The paper in Figure 5 has a first QR code (on the left side of the paper) and a second QR code (on the right side of the paper) printed on it. Customer C operates customer terminal 3 to scan the first QR code and installs a dedicated application (referred to as the "Regional PAY App" in the explanations of Figures 5 to 12). As will be explained in more detail later, customer C can acquire local currency by scanning a second QR code using a local payment app. Note that the name "XX" shown in the example in Figure 5 is a regional name (city, town, or village name, etc.). In other words, the form in the example in Figure 5 is for the "Welcome to XX Campaign 2021," in which local currency is distributed.

[0061] Figure 6 shows an example of the screen of a regional payment app installed on a customer's terminal using the form shown in Figure 5.

[0062] When customer C installs the regional PAY app on customer terminal 3, the screen shown in Figure 6 is displayed. In the screen shown in Figure 6, the regional currency (a second value, with the unit here being points) is zero. Above the balance, it is displayed as XXPAY, indicating that it is the regional currency for region XX.

[0063] Figure 7 shows an example of a menu screen related to local currency in the local payment app shown in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 7, the local PAY app allows payments and top-ups using local currency. Initially, the balance is zero points. Therefore, customer C taps the top-up button or performs other actions.

[0064] Figure 8 shows an example of the screen when a top-up operation is performed in the regional PAY app shown in Figure 7, and regional currency is topped up using the paper form shown in Figure 5. When customer C taps the charge button on the screen shown in Figure 7 and has customer terminal 3 scan the second QR code on the paper shown in Figure 5, the local currency is reflected in customer C's customer information based on the second QR code. As a result, as shown in Figure 8, for example, it is displayed that customer C possesses 3000 points of local currency (secondary value).

[0065] Figure 9 is an example of the menu screen related to the local currency shown in Figure 7, after the local currency has been charged as shown in Figure 8. As shown in Figure 9, Customer C is aware that they possess 3000 points of local currency (secondary value) and can make a payment by tapping the pay button or performing other actions.

[0066] Figure 10 shows the payment process at a store. As shown in Figure 10, in store S, 2,200 yen is displayed on the store terminal 4 (in this case, the POS terminal) as regular currency (first value). Customer C operates customer terminal 3 and scans the payment QR code of the QR code payer QP (in this case, the company that operates YYPAY, etc.) placed in store S. At this time, customer terminal 3 scans the QR code using XXPAY (the local currency usage screen for region name XX), a regional payment app for this service, rather than the YYPAY application software. In this way, it becomes possible to use the YYPAY QR code set up by the QR code payment provider QP to purchase goods and services using XXPAY's local currency (secondary value) that would normally be purchased with regular currency (first value).

[0067] Figure 11 shows an example of the screen of the local payment app after payment at the store shown in Figure 10. As shown in Figure 11, when the payment system provided by the QR code payer QP is used and the payment is completed, a payment completion screen is displayed in the regional PAY app via the service provider server 1. In addition, 800 points is displayed as the balance of the regional currency (second value). In this way, customer C's local currency (secondary value) is managed.

[0068] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and any modifications, improvements, etc. that can achieve the objectives of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0069] Herein, we will describe a gift system between store S, customer C, service provider SA, etc., separate from the embodiments described above. A gift select card is a card that contains information indicating that the recipient is entitled to receive a gift. Store S sells a gift selection card to customer C. Customer C can then use the information on the gift card to receive one of the following items (items 1 through 3). For example, customer C can also transfer the gift selection card to another person (such as an acquaintance) to allow that person to use it. In other words, customer C, who purchased the gift selection card, can transfer the right to receive one of the following items (gifts) to another person in the form of the gift selection card. Furthermore, the other person can choose the item that is most suitable for them from among the items 1 through 3.

[0070] In other words, A media pool (e.g., a card holder) has multiple types of media (e.g., gift cards) that can be used to claim one or more gifts. A management system for managing the aforementioned media pool, A selection acceptance means that accepts the selection of one or more types of media, A means of sending a gift that has been accepted by the selected acceptance method or that has been posted on the said medium, By providing this, the above-mentioned effects can be achieved.

[0071] Furthermore, the above-mentioned effect can also be achieved not only by a gift select card that allows the recipient to choose one item from multiple items, but also by the following solution that uses multiple types of gift cards that grant the recipient the right to receive a single item. In other words, A media pool is provided that has multiple types of media (e.g., gift cards) that can be used to claim one or more types of gifts. This is a management system for managing media pools. A selection acceptance means that accepts the selection of one or more types of media, A means of sending a gift that has been accepted by the selected acceptance method or that has been posted on the said medium, Having that will suffice.

[0072] Furthermore, in the above gift provision system, An adjustment means for adjusting the number of gift types that can be selected in a single medium (gift card) and the number of medium types that can be selected in a medium pool, wherein the adjustment means increases or decreases the number of gift types as the number of medium types increases. It is preferable to have the following:

[0073] For example, gift cards can take the following forms: In other words, for example, if there are stores offering various goods within a designated mall, a gift card is introduced that grants the right to receive one or more of the designated goods from among those goods. Furthermore, if a car dealership or similar establishment exists within the designated mall, and certain conditions related to car sales are met (for example, a car purchase agreement is finalized or a quote is requested), the gift card may be transferred to that customer. As a result, customers can receive gifts such as items from other stores within the mall when they purchase a car. Furthermore, car dealerships can easily manage inventory and other tasks by providing mall gifts in the form of cards. This can be applied not only to shopping malls but also to local supermarkets and other similar establishments. In other words, A sales location that offers services or products, a means of providing a medium (card) that displays gifts associated with the services or products offered at that sales location, In assigning gifts to gift-providing locations that offer gifts listed on the aforementioned medium (card), a means for appropriately assigning products as gifts, taking into consideration the market value of existing products at the gift-providing locations, in order to assign gifts corresponding to the services and products offered at the aforementioned sales locations, A gift provision system that includes these features would suffice.

[0074] In other words, points awarded to a user of the QR code payment system (in this case, customer C) by the QR code payer QP may be managed again by the service provider SA (service provider server 1). In other words, the QR code payment provider QP may distribute points usable within the QR code payment system to users of the QR code payment system (in this case, customer C) (so-called point rewards). In other words, conventionally, such QR code payment systems are based on a rebate of primary value payments, and therefore the rebate is also in primary value. As a result, there was a possibility that they could be used at stores S, etc., outside the jurisdiction of local government PEs. However, in this service, the rebate from the QR code payment user QP can be made to the service provider SA. The service provider SA can then convert the rebated first value into a second value and give it to the customer C. In this way, this service makes it possible to ensure that the first value, which is returned as the first value, is used at stores S, etc., in a value greater than the funds provided by the local government PE, by again granting the first value to customer C as the second value. In other words, it may be possible to improve the circulation of money in the region beyond the face value of the local currency.

[0075] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the first value is assumed to be the value of a unit of legal tender (e.g., yen), and the second value is assumed to be the value of a local currency, but the invention is not limited to these two cases. In other words, the first and second values ​​do not need to be identical; they can have different scopes of application or different units (for example, yen and points convertible at a predetermined rate). This allows the service to manage the scope of application and rates.

[0076] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the second value was assumed to be a local currency, but it is sufficient if it is a value that is valid within a predetermined range. That is, for example, the second value may be a currency that is valid only within a predetermined range, such as a union of stores S (e.g., a shopping street). In this case, the operator of the shopping district, etc., can use this service instead of the local government PE.

[0077] Furthermore, although the above embodiments were described as using QR codes (registered trademark), the system is not limited to this. That is, any barcode, such as any one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode, may be used. Moreover, the above embodiments are not limited to barcodes and can be applied to payment systems that identify stores, etc., using any image, etc.

[0078] The hardware configuration of the service provider server 1 shown in Figure 3 is merely an example for achieving the objectives of the present invention and is not particularly limited.

[0079] Furthermore, the functional block diagram shown in Figure 4 is merely illustrative and not particularly limiting. In other words, it is sufficient for the information processing system to have the functionality to execute the series of processes described above as a whole, and the functional blocks used to realize this functionality are not particularly limited to the example in Figure 4.

[0080] Furthermore, the location of the functional block is not limited to Figure 4, but can be any location. Furthermore, a single functional block may consist of hardware alone, software alone, or a combination of both.

[0081] When the processing of each functional block is to be executed by software, the programs that make up that software are installed on a computer or other device from a network or storage medium. A computer may be a computer built into dedicated hardware. Alternatively, a computer may be a computer capable of performing various functions by installing various programs, such as a platform server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0082] Recording media containing such programs consist not only of removable media distributed separately from the main unit to provide programs to each user, but also of recording media provided to each user in a state where they are pre-installed in the main unit.

[0083] In this specification, the step of describing a program to be recorded on a recording medium includes not only processes that are performed chronologically in that order, but also processes that are not necessarily performed chronologically, but are executed in parallel or individually.

[0084] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "system" refers to an overall system composed of multiple devices, means, etc.

[0085] In summary, the information processing system to which the present invention is applied only needs to have the following configuration, and various embodiments can be adopted. In other words, the information processing apparatus to which the present invention is applied is: A product transferor terminal (e.g., store terminal 4 in Figure 4) operated by a product transferor (e.g., store S in Figure 1) that transfers specified goods or services as goods, etc., to a customer (e.g., customer C in Figure 1) for a specified price, A settlement terminal (e.g., QR code settler server 5 in Figure 4) operated by a settler (e.g., QR code settler in the specification) who settles the predetermined price of the aforementioned goods, etc. to the aforementioned customer in a first value (e.g., legal tender in the specification), A customer terminal operated by the aforementioned customer (for example, customer terminal 3 in Figure 4), When the customer uses a second value (for example, local currency in the statement) as payment for the aforementioned goods, the payment agent terminal (for example, service provider server 1 in Figure 4) operated by the payment agent that requests the payer to make a payment for the first value, A payment medium (for example, a plate with a QR code as described in the specification) that is held by the transferor of the goods and to which first payment information is attached, including information necessary to allow the settlement party to settle at the first value, and information that can identify the transferor of the goods, In a payment system equipped with, The aforementioned customer terminal is A second value acquisition means (for example, the second value acquisition unit 301 in Figure 4) that acquires the right to use the second value at least the predetermined consideration, A first payment information acquisition means (for example, the first payment information acquisition unit 302 in Figure 4) for acquiring the first payment information, A second payment information providing means (for example, the second payment information acquisition unit 303 in Figure 4) provides the first payment information, the second value information indicating the use of the second value corresponding to the predetermined consideration, and customer information that can identify the customer as second payment information to the payment agent terminal, Equipped with, The aforementioned payment processing terminal is A second payment information acquisition means (for example, the second payment information acquisition unit 101 in Figure 4) for acquiring the second payment information, A value conversion means (for example, the value conversion unit 102 in Figure 4) that performs a process of converting the second value indicated by the second value information into the first value, A third payment information providing means (for example, the third payment information providing unit 103 in Figure 4) provides the first payment information, the first value information indicating the use of the first value converted by the value conversion means, and the customer information as third payment information to the payer terminal, The aforementioned payment terminal is A third payment information acquisition means for acquiring the third payment information (for example, the third payment information acquisition 501 in Figure 4), A settlement processing execution means (for example, the settlement processing execution unit 502 in Figure 4) executes a process to settle the predetermined price of the goods, etc., to the customer at the first value, based on the third settlement information, Having that will suffice. This will improve the convenience of introducing new payment systems. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0086] 1...Service provider server, 2...Local government terminal, 3...Customer terminal, 4...Store terminal, 5...Code payment server, 11...CPU, 20...Drive, 28...Storage unit, 41...Removable media, 101...Second payment information acquisition unit, 102...Value conversion unit, 103...Third payment information provision unit, 151...Store information DB, 152...Customer information DB, 301...Second value acquisition unit, 302...First payment information acquisition unit, 303...Second payment information provision unit, 501...Third payment information acquisition unit, 502...Payment processing execution unit

Claims

1. A management system for managing a media pool that has multiple types of media on which one or more types of gifts can be claimed, A selection acceptance means for accepting the selection of one or more of the aforementioned media from the user, A delivery means for sending the media received by the selection / reception means, or the gift posted on said media, to the user, A management system equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned medium is a gift select card that allows the user to choose and request one of several types of gifts. The management system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned medium is a gift card that can claim a single gift. The management system according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned means of delivery is to deliver the medium in a form that allows the user of the medium to transfer the medium to another person. The management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. An adjustment means for adjusting the number of types of media included in the media pool and the number of types of gifts that can be selected in one of the media, wherein the adjustment means increases or decreases the number of types of gifts as the number of types of media increases. The management system according to claim 1, further comprising:

6. A means of providing the media pool containing the media on which the gifts associated with the services or products offered at the sales location are posted, A means for assigning gifts to gift-providing locations that offer gifts listed in the aforementioned medium, taking into consideration the market value of goods already available at the gift-providing locations, The management system according to claim 1, further comprising:

7. An information processing method performed by a computer that manages a media pool having multiple types of media on which one or more types of gifts can be claimed, A selection acceptance step that accepts the selection of one or more of the aforementioned media from the user, A sending step which involves sending the media accepted in the selection acceptance step, or the gift published on said media, to the user, Information processing methods including

8. A computer that manages a media pool containing multiple types of media that can be used to claim one or more gifts, A selection acceptance step that accepts the selection of one or more of the aforementioned media from the user, A sending step which involves sending the media accepted in the selection acceptance step, or the gift published on said media, to the user, A program that executes the command.

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