Material supply device

Abstract

To provide an item supply device that can meet the needs of consumers. [Solution] This is an article supply device capable of supplying articles randomly. The article supply device comprises a first display unit that displays first identification information on the front of the article supply device, a storage unit for storing articles, a supply unit for supplying articles stored in the storage unit, a control unit that controls the supply unit to supply articles, and a settlement means for settling the payment. When payment is made in cash, it is not necessary to obtain the first identification information, but when payment is made by electronic means, it is necessary to obtain the first identification information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an article supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been an article supply device that obtains an article of a capsule toy stored in a device body by operating a handle or the like on the condition of paying a price (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such an article supply device, not only the form of setting only the payment of the price as the condition for supplying the article, but also the number of consumers who desire the supply of articles in other forms is increasing.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an article supply device, an article supply system, and a management device that can meet the needs of consumers who desire the supply of articles in various forms.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an article supply device capable of supplying articles, comprising: a display unit that displays first identification information; a storage unit that stores articles; a supply unit that supplies the articles stored in the storage unit; and a control unit that controls the supply unit to be able to supply articles on the conditions that the first identification information has been acquired, the second identification information has been acquired, and the price of the article has been settled.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is an article supply system capable of supplying articles, comprising an article supply device and a terminal, wherein the article supply device comprises a display unit for displaying first identification information, a storage unit for storing articles, a supply unit for supplying articles stored in the storage unit, and a control unit for controlling the supply unit to supply articles, wherein the terminal comprises a first acquisition unit capable of acquiring the first identification information and a second acquisition unit capable of acquiring the second identification information, and the control unit of the article supply device enables the supply unit to supply articles on the condition that the first identification information has been acquired by the terminal, the second identification information has been acquired by the terminal, and payment has been settled.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is a management device for managing the supply of articles from an article supply device, comprising: a first identification information acquisition unit for acquiring first identification information displayed on the article supply device; an article supply device identification unit for identifying the article supply device based on the first identification information; a second identification information acquisition unit for acquiring second identification information different from the first identification information; an authentication unit for authenticating the second identification information; and a control unit that, on the condition that the article supply device has been identified and the second identification information has been authenticated, controls the identified article supply device to a state in which the price of the articles can be settled in cash.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is a management device for managing the supply of articles from an article supply device, comprising: a first identification information acquisition unit for acquiring first identification information displayed on the article supply device; an article supply device identification unit for identifying the article supply device using the first identification information; a second identification information acquisition unit for acquiring second identification information different from the first identification information; an authentication unit for authenticating the second identification information; a settlement unit for processing the settlement of the price of articles supplied from the article supply device; and a control unit for identifying the article supply device, authenticating the second identification information, and controlling the identified article supply device to a state where articles can be supplied, provided that the settlement of the price of the articles by electronic payment has been completed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an article supply device, an article supply system, and a management device that can meet the needs of consumers. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the article supply system in this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the article supply system in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of a device configuration for a smartphone, which is an example of terminal 3. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a front view of an example of an article supply device 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an example of the article supply device 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a functional block diagram of the article supply device 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of terminal 3. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control device 5. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the item supply device data D1. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of serial code data D2. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram of the article supply system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart of the control device 5 in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart of the article supply device 1 in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of photographing the information display element of the first identification information 11 of the article supply device 1 by the imaging unit 302 of terminal 3. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of the serial code input screen displayed on terminal 3. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an example of the guidance information displayed on terminal 3. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of error guidance information. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an example of an error screen notifying that the serial code authentication has failed. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the terminal 3 in a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the management device 5 in a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of user management data D3. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram of the article supply system in a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is an example of a payment input screen displayed on the terminal 3. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a flowchart of the article supply device 1 in a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a front view of an example of the article supply device 1 in a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of supply article data D4. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a sequence diagram of the article supply system of the second embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in the second embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in the second embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of error guidance information. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a sequence diagram of the article supply system of the first modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 33]Figure 33 is a flowchart of the control device 5 in Modification 1 of the second embodiment. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a sequence diagram of an article supply system of a modified example 2 of the second embodiment. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a flowchart of the control device 5 in a modified example 2 of the second embodiment. [Figure 36] Figure 36 is a diagram illustrating the article supply device 1 of the third embodiment. [Figure 37] Figure 37 shows an example of the article supply device data D1 of the third embodiment. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a diagram illustrating the article supply device 1 of the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] <Outline of Embodiments of the Invention> An outline of embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0013] In this embodiment, goods are supplied from the goods supply device to users who have obtained the right to purchase goods (limited purchase right) exclusively for them, provided that their actions meet predetermined conditions, and only to users who have paid a price. The acquisition of a limited purchase right by a user includes, but is not limited to, the purchase of goods other than those supplied to the user, participation in an event, or winning a lottery through the user's application. In other words, any action by the user that meets the predetermined conditions is sufficient. Here, the limited purchase right acquired when a user's actions meet the predetermined conditions must be verifiable in some form. Typical examples include identification information that proves the limited purchase right. For example, identification information granted when a user purchases goods other than those supplied, identification information granted when a user participates in an event, or identification information granted when a user wins a lottery.

[0014] On the other hand, while companies supplying goods provide them to users with limited purchase rights, it is preferable to supply the goods to users from a goods supply device rather than by mail or other means. This is because having users visit the location where the goods supply device is installed allows them to become familiar with the device and learn about the wide variety of goods that can be supplied. This is beneficial for the companies supplying goods and provides users with an opportunity to learn about a wide range of products.

[0015] However, many supply devices exist at the installation site, and it is necessary to identify the supply device that will supply goods to the user. To identify a single supply device, identification information assigned to the supply device can be used.

[0016] However, even if an item supply device can be identified to supply goods to a user based on the identification information assigned to the item supply device, this does not necessarily mean that the user has a legitimate limited purchase right. By linking the identified item supply device with the user's limited purchase right and authenticating them, it becomes possible to accept payment for goods from users who have a legitimate limited purchase right, and to supply goods from the item supply device on the condition that payment is received. Therefore, the first important thing is to obtain the identification information of the item supply device and the identification information that authenticates the user's limited purchase right at the location where the item supply device is installed, and the second important thing is the settlement of payment.

[0017] Therefore, the embodiment of the present invention is configured as follows. To make the explanation more concrete, we will explain using as an example a collaboration project between company X and company Y in which the user's action is considered to be the user's purchase of company Y's goods, and payment is accepted only from users who have obtained the limited right to purchase company X's goods by purchasing the goods, and the goods are supplied to them.

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the goods supply system in this embodiment. In Figure 1, 1 is the goods supply device of company X, 2 is the goods supplied by goods supply device 1, 3 is the user's terminal, and 4 is the goods of company Y.

[0019] The item supply device 1 is a device that supplies item 2 to the user. The item supply device 1 is installed indoors or outdoors, and usually multiple item supply devices 1 are installed, each supplying different items. Among these installed item supply devices 1, there is an item supply device 1 that supplies item 2, which is the subject of a collaboration between company X and company Y. The item supply device 1 that supplies item 2 displays first identification information 11. This first identification information 11 contains unique identification information that can identify each item supply device 1. For example, the first identification information 11 is the serial number of the item supply device 1. For the convenience of the user, it is desirable that the first identification information 11 be an information display that can be read by terminal 2. For example, the information display may be a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (QR code: registered trademark), etc.

[0020] Terminal 3 has the functions of a reader for information displays and communication with other devices. Terminal 3 can be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or a mobile phone.

[0021] Product 4 is a product supplied by company Y to the user. The type of product is not limited. Examples of products include books such as magazines, food products such as beverages, and stationery. In this embodiment, the product will be described as a magazine. When a user purchases a magazine (product 4), they obtain the exclusive right to purchase item 2. The magazine (product 4) displays second identification information 12. This second identification information 12 is information used to authenticate the exclusive purchase right of the user who purchased the magazine (product 4). For example, the second identification information 12 is a unique serial code that differs for each magazine. The second identification information 12 may be displayed as letters or numbers, or as a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (QR code: registered trademark).

[0022] In order for a user who has purchased a magazine (product 4) to obtain item 2, they must go to the location where the item supply device 1 is installed, identify the item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2 at a location where multiple item supply devices 1 are installed, have their limited purchase right for item 2 authenticated, and pay the price for item 2. Under these conditions, the item supply device 1 is made ready to supply items.

[0023] Therefore, this embodiment has the following features. (1) The first identification information 11 for identifying the item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2 to the user is displayed on the item supply device 1. (2) At the location where the goods supply device 1 is installed, the user's terminal 3 is used to obtain the first identification information 11 of the goods supply device 1, thereby identifying the goods supply device 1 from which the user is seeking to receive goods 2. (3) Obtain the second identification information 12 from the user and authenticate the user's limited purchase right for item 2. If the second identification information 12 has an expiration date, authenticate the expiration date as well. (4) Settle the price for item 2.

[0024] If conditions (2), (3), and (4) are met, the terminal 3 will be able to supply goods to the user from the goods supply device 1 of the first identification information 11 acquired by the terminal 3.

[0025] Here, the order of (2), (3), and (4) does not matter, but (4) is preferable to be done after (2) and (3). If any of the above processes (2), (3), and (4) are to be canceled midway, it is necessary to return to the state before the process began. However, the process of canceling (4) (the process of canceling payment) is complicated because it requires refunding the amount that has already been paid, so it is better to do it after (2) and (3) have been processed without any problems.

[0026] In order to supply item 2 to users who have legitimate limited purchase rights, it is necessary for the first identification information 11 and the second identification information 12 to be linked. The following methods can be used for linking them.

[0027] The first identification information 11 includes, in addition to the unique identification information of the item supply device 1, link information that links to a means for acquiring the second identification information 12 (for example, an input screen for entering the second identification information 12). This allows the first identification information 11 read by the terminal 3 to be passed to a means for authenticating the second identification information 12, thereby linking the first identification information 11 and the second identification information 12. If the magazine (product 4) is an e-book, terminal 3 can act as an e-book reader. In such cases, if the e-book itself includes the second identification information 12 and is equipped with a function to read the first identification information 11, the first identification information 11 and the second identification information 12 can be linked.

[0028] Regarding the determination of conditions (2) and (3), a typical example is a management device that can communicate with terminal 3, acquires first identification information 11 and second identification information 12, and performs a determination of whether or not the item supply device 1 can supply item 2 based on the first identification information 11 (including the identification of the item supply device 1), and authentication of the second identification information 12.

[0029] (4) The payment for the goods can be made in cash or electronically. Cash payment means paying for the goods with cash such as coins or banknotes. Electronic payment means paying for the goods by sending and receiving data of electronic monetary value. The type of electronic payment is not limited, but there are access-type payments such as credit cards and stored-value types such as electronic money. In the case of cash payment, the cash receiving unit installed in the goods supply device 1 receives the cash (coins) and processes the payment. In the case of payment by electronic payment, the terminal 3 and the management device 5 communicate in response to the user's payment operation and process the payment by settling the amount from the user's credit card or the user's electronic money and updating the payment.

[0030] In the supply of goods by the goods supply device 1, if payment is made by cash, the management device, which has performed the determination of the first identification information 11 and the authentication of the second identification information 12, transmits a supply permission signal to the goods supply device 1 identified by the first identification information 11. Upon receiving the supply permission signal, the cash receiving unit of the goods supply device 1 activates the function of the coin sorting unit of the goods supply device 1, enabling cash payment. Once the cash payment is completed, the supply unit enables the supply of goods. If payment is made by electronic payment, the management device performs the determination of the first identification information 11, the authentication of the second identification information 12, and electronic payment, and transmits a lock release signal to the goods supply device 1 identified by the first identification information 11. Upon receiving the lock release signal, the supply unit of the goods supply device 1 unlocks the supply of goods, making it possible to supply goods 2 to the user. The management device may be located on a network that can communicate with the goods supply device 1, or it may be located within the goods supply device 1 itself. Furthermore, if the item supply device 1 and the terminal 3 can communicate via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, the terminal 3 may receive confirmation of the completion of the determination and authentication from the management device, and the terminal 3 may send an unlock signal to the item supply device 1.

[0031] Thus, this embodiment can supply goods to users in various forms resulting from the user's actions, and can meet the needs of various demanders, such as users who receive goods and companies that intend to use the goods supply device. The following describes specific embodiments.

[0032] <First Embodiment of the Invention> A first embodiment of the present invention will now be described. The goods supply system in the first embodiment is a system that realizes mutually beneficial collaboration (joint planning) between company X, which supplies goods to users, and company Y, which supplies products to users.

[0033] One example of a collaboration project is one in which a specific item from company X is sold exclusively to users who have purchased products from company Y. In this case, the collaboration between company X and company Y must be beneficial to both companies.

[0034] Company Y benefits from having many users purchase its products. Therefore, if users are attracted to Company X's products and purchase Company Y's products in order to obtain those products, it will result in many users purchasing Company Y's products, which is beneficial for Company Y.

[0035] On the other hand, company X benefits from making users aware of not only specific items offered by company X, but also other items it provides, and from encouraging them to purchase those other items. To achieve this, it is necessary to guide users to locations where supply devices that provide a wide variety of goods are installed, and to make users aware of the wide variety of goods that are available. Therefore, it is desirable that items sold exclusively to users who have purchased company Y's products be supplied to users from an actual supply device rather than being sold online and delivered to users via methods such as an online shop. Accordingly, the first embodiment is configured as follows. In this embodiment, payment will be made in cash.

[0036] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the article supply system in the first embodiment. Note that components in Figure 2 that have the same configuration as those in Figure 1 are given the same numbers.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the goods supply device 1, the user terminal 3, and the management device 5 are connected to a communication network 6 and can communicate with each other. The communication network 6 refers to a communication path capable of data communication. In other words, the communication network 6 includes not only LANs using dedicated lines (dedicated cables) or Ethernet (registered trademark) for connection, but also communication networks such as telephone networks, cable networks, and the Internet, and the communication method can be wired or wireless.

[0038] The item supply device 1 is a device that supplies item 2. Item 2 is an item that is supplied exclusively to users who have purchased magazine 4.

[0039] Terminal 3 can be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or a mobile phone. Figure 3 shows an example of the device configuration of a smartphone, which is an example of terminal 3. As shown in Figure 3, terminal 3 comprises a display 31, a touch operation panel 32 integrated with the display 31, and a built-in speaker 33 and camera 34. Terminal 3 also includes a control board, a built-in battery, a power button, volume control buttons, etc., which are not shown. The control board is equipped with various microprocessors such as a CPU, GPU, and DSP, ASICs, various IC memories such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a wireless communication module for wireless communication with a mobile phone base station. The control board is also equipped with so-called I / F circuits (interface circuits), such as the driver circuit for the touch operation panel 32. Each of these elements mounted on the control board is electrically connected via a bus circuit, etc., enabling data reading and writing and signal transmission and reception.

[0040] Magazine 4 is a product supplied (sold) to users by company Y. Magazine 4 contains a serial code that authenticates the user's right to acquire item 2 (limited purchase right), so that item 2 can be sold (supplied) exclusively to users who purchase Magazine 4. This serial code is unique to each copy of Magazine 4. Such serial codes can be generated using check digits, etc. Furthermore, there is not limited to one serial code per copy of Magazine 4; multiple serial codes may be included. Multiple serial codes may be separated by the type of item, or multiple serial codes may be provided that can be used for all items subject to limited purchase, regardless of the type of item. If a user has multiple serial codes that can be used for all items subject to limited purchase, each serial code grants the right to purchase one item, so the user can purchase as many items as the number of serial codes. In this case, the user may purchase multiple copies of the same item, or purchase different types of items for which they have limited purchase rights.

[0041] The management device 5 is a server system comprising one or more server devices, storage devices, etc. The management device 5 performs processing such as identifying the item supply device 1 that supplies items and authenticating the second identification information 12.

[0042] Next, we will explain the configuration of each device. Figure 4 is a front view of an example of the article supply device 1, Figure 5 is a perspective view of an example of the article supply device 1, and Figure 6 is a functional block diagram of the article supply device 1.

[0043] Article supply device 1 is a device that supplies article 2.

[0044] Item 2 is an item that is the subject of a collaboration between Company X and Company Y. By purchasing Company Y's magazine 4, users can obtain the exclusive right to purchase Item 2 supplied by Company X. Item 2 includes, for example, toys contained in a divisible spherical capsule, or toys and capsules integrated into one unit. Item 2 is not limited to just one type of item; there may be multiple types of items. In this case, multiple types of items will be stored together as items belonging to a single series (category) in the item storage section 20 of the item supply device 1, which will be described later.

[0045] The front of the item supply device 1 is provided with a display 13 showing the contents of item 2, a coin slot 14 for inserting coins to be paid for item 2, a handle 15 as an operating part, a dispensing opening 16 from which item 2 is supplied, and a coin return slot 17. By viewing the display 13, the user can know that the item supply device 1 is capable of supplying item 2, which is the subject of a collaboration between company X and company Y.

[0046] The front of the item supply device 1 displays the first identification information 11 (information display element: QR code). The first identification information 11 includes at least a unique item supply device identification information (device ID) that identifies the item supply device 1, and a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) which is link information to a page for authenticating the second identification information 12 described in the magazine 4. In addition to the above, the first identification information 11 may also include other information, such as location information and store name that identify the location where the item supply device 1 is installed, item identification information (item ID) that identifies the item, information such as the price of the item, and management information necessary for managing the item supply device 1. Furthermore, regarding the method of displaying the first identification information 11, in this example, a method of displaying it by attaching a QR code as an information display element to the front of the item supply device 1 is adopted, but it is not limited to this. For example, if the item supply device 1 is equipped with a display unit such as an LCD, the information display element of the first identification information 11 may be displayed on that display unit. Moreover, the position where the first identification information 11 is displayed is not limited to the front of the item supply device 1. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the bottom surface of the return slot 17 may be clearly visible near the return slot 17.

[0047] The item supply device 1 comprises an item storage unit 20, an item supply unit 21, a locking unit 22, an operation unit 23, a control unit 24, a cash receiving unit 25, and a communication unit 26. The article storage section 20 stores a large number of articles 2. Articles can be easily stored by pulling the article storage section 20 forward and inserting the articles 2 from the front of the article supply device 1. An article supply section 21 is installed in the lower part of the article storage section 20, which is equipped with a rotating disc having a hole large enough for one article 2 to pass through.

[0048] The operating unit 23 transmits the operation of the handle 15 to the rotating disc of the article supply unit 21. The operating unit 23 is locked by the locking unit 22, and when the lock is released, the handle 15 becomes rotatable by the user. As a mechanism for releasing the lock, for example, a lock release mechanism using a solenoid lock is used. In this case, the solenoid lock is used to make the handle 15 unable to rotate (locked state), and the lock is released by energizing the solenoid, making the handle 15 rotatable. Note that the lock release mechanism is not limited to a solenoid lock, and other lock release mechanisms may be used. When the locking unit 22 is in the unlocked state, the rotating disc rotates in conjunction with the handle 15 when it is rotated by a predetermined angle, and when the hole in the rotating disc and the drop opening provided at the bottom of the article storage unit 20 face each other, one article 2 is supplied from the drop opening to the drop opening 16 through a passage that communicates with the drop opening 16.

[0049] The control unit 24 controls the locking and unlocking of the locking unit 22. The locking unit 22 is unlocked by the control unit 24 in response to an unlock signal from the cash receiving unit 25. The control unit 24 also locks the locking unit 22 after detecting the discharge of the item 2 to the dispensing port 16, or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the lock was released. Furthermore, the control unit 24 may also lock the locking unit 22 in response to an externally controlled lock signal.

[0050] The cash receiving unit 25 accepts cash. When the cash receiving unit 25 receives a supply permission signal from the management device 5, it switches the function of the coin sorting unit (not shown), which sorts the inserted coins, from its initial disabled state (off state) to an enabled state (on state). The passage for coins inserted from the input slot 14 is divided into two paths: one that goes to the return slot 17 via the internal coin sorting unit (not shown), and another that goes to the storage unit (not shown) where the coins are stored. When the coin sorting unit is disabled, the inserted coins pass straight through the coin sorting unit and are discharged from the return slot 17. When the coin sorting unit is enabled, the coin sorting unit sorts the coins, sending usable coins to the storage unit (not shown) and discharging unsuitable coins from the return slot 17. The coin sorting unit also separates usable coins by type. The cash receiving unit 25 counts the number of coins of each type separated by the coin sorting unit using sensors and obtains the amount of money inserted. When the amount of money inserted reaches the price of the set item 2, the cash receiving unit 25 sends a lock release signal to the control unit 24. The price (amount) of the item is set in the cash receiving unit 25 either by the management device 5 or manually. The communication unit 26 can communicate with the management device 5 via the communication network 6.

[0051] Next, we will explain the configuration of terminal 3.

[0052] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of terminal 3. As shown in Figure 7, terminal 3 comprises an operation input unit 301, a shooting unit 302, a processing unit 303, an image display unit 304, an audio output unit 305, a communication unit 306, and a storage unit 307.

[0053] The operation input unit 301 is for inputting various user operations and outputs an operation input signal to the processing unit 303 according to the operation input. The functions of the operation input unit 301 can be realized not only by elements that the user directly operates with their fingers, such as a touch operation pad, home button, button switch, joystick, and trackball, but also by elements that detect movement and posture, such as an accelerometer, angular velocity sensor, tilt sensor, and geomagnetic sensor. In Figure 3, the touch operation panel 32 is an example of this.

[0054] The imaging unit 302 processes the information display element (QR code) of the first identification information 11 and outputs the captured image to the processing unit 303. The imaging unit 302 comprises a lens, an image sensor, and a controller that controls them. In Figure 3, this corresponds to the camera 34.

[0055] The processing unit 303 comprehensively controls the operation of the terminal 3 based on programs and data stored in the memory unit 307, operation input signals from the operation input unit 301, etc. The functions of the processing unit 303 can be realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, an ASIC, or an IC memory. The processing unit 303 mainly comprises an arithmetic unit 51, an image generation unit 52, a sound generation unit 53, and a communication control unit 54.

[0056] The calculation unit 51 outputs to the image generation unit 52, the sound generation unit 53, and the communication control unit 54. The calculation unit 51 includes an information display unit 510, a serial code acquisition unit 511, and a supply information guidance unit 512.

[0057] The information display acquisition unit 510 reads the information display of the article supply device 1 photographed by the imaging unit 302 and acquires the first identification information 11.

[0058] The serial code acquisition unit 511 sends a request to the management device 5 to send an input screen for the serial code, which includes the acquired device ID, based on the first identification information 11 acquired by the information display unit 510. In this embodiment, the destination (link destination) of this request is the management device 5. The management device 5 receives the serial code input screen and displays it on the image display unit 304 via the image generation unit 52. The serial code entered on the serial code input screen is also sent to the management device 5.

[0059] The supply information guidance unit 512 displays the authentication result of the serial code from the management device 5, information about the supply of goods, and error (supply impossible) information on the image display unit 304 via the image generation unit 52.

[0060] Furthermore, the functions of the information display unit 510, the serial code acquisition unit 511, and the supply information guidance unit 512 can be implemented using the web browser installed on the terminal 3, or they can also be implemented using a dedicated application.

[0061] The image generation unit 52 generates one image per frame time (e.g., 1 / 60th of a second) based on the processing results of the calculation unit 51, and outputs the generated image signal to the image display unit 304. The functions of the image generation unit 52 can be realized by, for example, a processor such as a GPU or digital signal processor (DSP), a program such as a video signal IC or video codec, an IC memory for drawing frames such as a frame buffer, and an IC memory used for unpacking texture data.

[0062] The sound generation unit 53 generates sound signals such as sound effects and various operation sounds based on the processing results of the calculation unit 51 and outputs them to the sound output unit 305. The functions of the sound generation unit 53 can be realized by, for example, a processor such as a digital signal processor (DSP) or a speech synthesis IC, or an audio codec capable of playing audio files.

[0063] The communication control unit 54 performs communication connection and data processing for data communication with the management device 5 and other devices.

[0064] The image display unit 304 displays the screen based on the image signal input from the image generation unit 52. The functions of the image display unit 304 can be realized by display devices such as flat panel displays, cathode ray tubes (CRTs), projectors, and head-mounted displays. In Figure 2, the image display unit 304 corresponds to the display 31.

[0065] The sound output unit 305 is for outputting sound effects and the like based on the sound signal input from the sound generation unit 53. In Figure 2, the sound output unit 203 corresponds to the speaker 33.

[0066] The communication unit 306 connects to the communication line N to enable communication. The functions of the communication unit 306 can be realized by, for example, a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack for a wired communication cable, a control circuit, etc.

[0067] The memory unit 307 pre-stores programs for operating the terminal 3 and realizing its various functions, as well as data used during the execution of these programs, or temporarily stores them each time processing is performed. The memory unit 307 can be implemented using, for example, an IC memory such as RAM, ROM, or flash memory, a magnetic disk such as a hard disk, or an optical disk such as a CD-ROM or DVD. Specifically, the memory unit 307 stores a system program and a control program. The system program is a program for realizing the basic computer functions of the terminal 3. The control program is a program for causing the processing unit 31 to function as the arithmetic unit 51 (information display unit 510, serial code acquisition unit 511, supply information guidance unit 512).

[0068] Next, we will describe the control device 5. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 5. The management device 5 comprises a storage unit 61, a processing unit 62, and a communication unit 63.

[0069] The storage unit 61 is implemented by, for example, IC memory such as RAM, ROM, or flash memory, magnetic disks such as hard disks, or optical disks such as CD-ROMs or DVDs, and stores the system program and the functional program. The system program is a program that realizes the basic functions of the computer. The functional program is a program that causes the processing unit 62 to function as the item supply device determination unit 621, the purchase right authentication unit 622, and the supply control unit 623, which will be described later. It also stores the item supply device data D1 and serial code data D2, which will be described later.

[0070] The goods supply device data D1 stores the device ID of goods supply device 1 capable of supplying goods 2, which are the subject of the collaboration between companies X and Y, as well as the item ID, price, and stock quantity of goods 2 supplied by that goods supply device 1. Figure 9 shows an example of goods supply device data D1. As shown in Figure 9, the goods supply device data D1 stores the device ID of goods supply device 1 capable of supplying goods 2, which are the subject of the collaboration between companies X and Y, as well as the item ID, price, and stock quantity of goods 2 supplied by that goods supply device 1 with that device ID.

[0071] Serial code data D2 stores the serial codes printed on magazine 4 sold by company Y. Each magazine 4 is assigned a unique serial code, and these codes are non-repeating. Such serial codes can be generated using check digits, etc. Figure 10 shows an example of serial code data D2. As shown in Figure 10, serial code data D2 stores a unique serial code and an authentication flag associated with it. As will be described later, the purchase right authentication unit 622 authenticates the user's limited purchase right using the serial code, and after the payment for the goods is completed and the goods 2 are supplied from the goods supply device 1, the authenticated flag is added to the authentication flag field of the serial code to indicate that authentication has been completed.

[0072] The processing unit 62 comprehensively controls the operation of the management device 5 based on the programs and data stored in the memory unit 61. The functions of the processing unit 62 can be realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, an ASIC, or an IC memory. The main functional units of this processing unit 62 include an item supply device determination unit 621, a purchase right authentication unit 622, and a supply control unit 623.

[0073] The item supply device determination unit 621 receives a request for a serial code input screen from terminal 3, obtains the device ID included in the request, and determines whether the obtained device ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If it is included in the item supply device data D1, the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device of the obtained device ID is an item supply device capable of supplying item 2, which is the subject of the collaboration. It then checks the inventory of the item supply device 1 of that device ID, and if there is inventory, it determines that the item supply device 1 of the device ID obtained by the user is an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2, which is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4. The item supply device determination unit 621 then identifies the item supply device 1 to which the supply permission signal will be sent. Once the determination and identification are complete, the item supply device determination unit 621 sends a serial code input screen to terminal 3. On the other hand, if the item supply device determination unit 621 is not included in the item supply device data D1, or if it is included in the item supply device data D1 but there is no inventory, it sends an error screen to terminal 3 informing them that supplying item 2 is not possible. Furthermore, a predetermined period is set during which item 2 can be supplied from item supply device 1. If a request for a serial code input screen is received from terminal 3 after the supply period has elapsed, an error screen informing terminal 3 that item 2 cannot be supplied will be sent.

[0074] The purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the serial code entered on the input screen with the serial code in the serial code data D2. If the serial code entered on the input screen is included in the serial code data D2 and the authentication flag is not set for that serial code, the serial code entered on the input screen is authenticated, and the user's limited purchase right is authenticated. Then, it sends information to the user's terminal 3 regarding the supply of goods. In addition, if the serial code has an expiration date, the purchase right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. On the other hand, if the purchase right authentication unit 622 is unable to authenticate the serial code (including cases where the expiration date has passed and authentication is not possible), it sends an error screen to the terminal 3 informing the user that the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be authenticated.

[0075] The operation of the article supply system of this embodiment will be described.

[0076] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system in this embodiment, Figure 12 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in this embodiment, and Figure 13 is a flowchart of the item supply device 1 in this embodiment. In the following description, the item supply device data D1 is assumed to be the one shown in Figure 9, and the serial code data D2 is assumed to be the one shown in Figure 10.

[0077] First, we will explain the overall flow of the goods supply system using the sequence diagram in Figure 11.

[0078] The user goes to a location where an item supply device 1 capable of supplying items 2, which are exclusively supplied to purchasers of magazine 4, is installed, and obtains the information display of the first identification information 11 displayed on the item supply device 1. The acquisition of the information display is performed using the shooting function of the shooting unit 302 of the terminal 3, in response to the user's operation (Step 1). Figure 14 shows an example of the information display of the first identification information 11 on the item supply device 1 being photographed by the shooting unit 302 of the terminal 3. The user stands in front of the item supply device 1 and operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of the first identification information 11 is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, and then photographs the information display.

[0079] The information acquisition unit 510 of terminal 3 acquires the first identification information 11 from the information display body of the captured first identification information 11. In this example, the acquired first identification information 11 includes the device ID of the goods supply device 1 and is link destination information (e.g., URL) for the means of authenticating the serial code 12 (Step 2). In this example, the acquired device ID is assumed to be "12560", and the link destination is assumed to be the management device 5.

[0080] The serial code acquisition unit 511 of terminal 3 sends a request to the management device 5 requesting the transmission of a serial code input screen based on the link destination including the device ID of the item supply device 1 (Step 3).

[0081] The management device 5 receives a request from terminal 3 and performs a supply determination process (Step 4). Details of the supply determination process will be described later.

[0082] If terminal 3 does not receive an error notification screen from the management device 5, but instead receives a serial code input screen, the serial code acquisition unit 511 of terminal 3 displays the serial code input screen (Step 5). Figure 15 is an example of the serial code input screen displayed on terminal 3. The user enters the serial code into the displayed input screen (Step 6). In this example, the user enters the serial code "1VB3588" into the serial code input screen. The serial code acquisition unit 511 then transmits the serial code to the management device 5 (Step 7).

[0083] The management device 5 receives the serial code and performs a supply determination process (Step 4). Details of the supply determination process will be described later.

[0084] Terminal 3 does not receive an error notification screen from the management device 5, but when it receives notification information from the management device 5, it displays the notification information (Step 8). Figure 16 is an example of the notification information displayed on Terminal 3. The notification information in Figure 16 informs the user that the serial code has been authenticated, to insert cash to pay the price, to operate the handle 15 of the item supply device 1 to receive the item, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute.

[0085] Meanwhile, the goods supply device 1 receives a supply permission signal, settles the payment in cash, and executes the supply process to supply the goods (Step 9). The user pays the price by inserting cash according to the guidance information displayed on terminal 3, and operates the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods. The goods supply device 1 then transmits a supply report to the management device 5. Details of the supply process (Step 9) will be described later.

[0086] The purchase right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives a supply report, and if the supply report indicates that the goods have been successfully supplied, it adds an authenticated flag to the authentication flag field of the corresponding serial code in the serial code data D2, indicating that authentication has been completed, and makes it impossible to reuse the serial code (Step 10). In addition, it reduces the inventory count of the goods supply device 1 that sent the supply report by 1. The above is a description of the overall operation.

[0087] Next, the supply determination process (Step 4) of the control device 5 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 12.

[0088] When the item supply device determination unit 621 of the management device 5 receives a request from terminal 3 (Step 100), it obtains the device ID included in the request (Step 101). In this example, the obtained device ID is "12560".

[0089] The item supply device determination unit 621 determines the device ID using the item supply device data D1 (Step 102). The determination of the device ID is to determine whether the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 103), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 of the device ID acquired by the user is an item supply device 1 capable of supplying the item 2 that is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4, and identifies the item supply device 1 to which a supply permission signal is to be sent. On the other hand, if the acquired device ID is not included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 103), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 of the device ID acquired by the user is not an item supply device 1 capable of supplying the item 2 that is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4, and sends error notification information to the terminal 3 (Step 110). Figure 17 shows an example of error notification information for an item supply device. In this example, the acquired device ID is "12560," and since it is included in the item supply device data D1, it is determined that item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID "12560" is an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2, which is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4.

[0090] Next, the item supply device determination unit 621 checks the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 corresponding to the acquired device ID (Step 104). If the inventory count for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is not "0", the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 corresponding to the acquired device ID is capable of supplying item 2 and identifies the item supply device 1 to which the supply permission signal should be sent. Then, the item supply device determination unit 621 sends a serial code input screen to the terminal 3 (Step 105). On the other hand, if the inventory count for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is "0", the item supply device determination unit 621 sends error notification information to the terminal 3 (Step 110). For example, it sends error notification information as shown in Figure 17 to the terminal 3. In this example, the inventory quantity for item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID "12560" in item supply device data D1 is not "0", so the serial code input screen is sent to terminal 3 (Step 105).

[0091] Next, when the purchase right authentication unit 622 receives the serial code entered on the input screen (Step 106), it performs authentication processing on the acquired serial code (Step 107). In this example, the acquired serial code is "1VB3588", and the serial code "1VB3588" is the target of authentication.

[0092] The purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2. If the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 and the authenticated flag is not set for that serial code, it authenticates the acquired serial code and determines that the user's limited purchase right for item 2 has been authenticated (Step 108). In addition, if the serial code has an expiration date, the purchase right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. If the expiration date of the serial code is valid and the serial code is authenticated, the purchase right authentication unit 622 sends information regarding the supply of the item (Step 109).

[0093] On the other hand, the purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2. If the acquired serial code is not included in the serial code data D2, or if the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 but has an authenticated flag, or if the serial code has an expiration date and that expiration date has passed, the purchase right authentication unit 622 determines that the acquired serial code is inappropriate and does not authenticate it. If the purchase right authentication unit 622 is unable to authenticate the serial code (including cases where the expiration date has passed and authentication is not possible), it sends an error screen to the terminal 3 indicating that the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be authenticated (Step 110). Figure 18 is an example of an error screen indicating that the serial code could not be authenticated.

[0094] In this example, the acquired serial code is "1VB3588," which is included in the serial code data D2 and does not have an authenticated flag. Furthermore, the serial code does not have an expiration date. Therefore, the purchase right authentication unit 622 determines that the acquired serial code "1VB3588" is authenticated and that the user's right to acquire item 2 has been authenticated, and transmits information regarding the supply of the item.

[0095] If the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 with device ID is capable of supplying item 2, and the purchase right authentication unit 622 authenticates the limited purchase right, the supply control unit 623 transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID identified by the item supply device determination unit 621 (Step 111). In this example, the supply control unit 623 transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with device ID "12560". This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process (Step 4) of the control device 5.

[0096] Next, we will explain the supply process (Step 9) of the item supply device 1 using the flowchart in Figure 13. When the control unit 24 of the goods supply device 1 receives a supply permission signal (Step 200), it notifies the cash receiving unit 25, and the cash receiving unit 25 switches the function of the coin sorting unit, which sorts the inserted coins, from the off state to the on state (Step 201). The user inserts the cash equivalent to the payment. The cash receiving unit 25 determines whether the amount inserted has reached the price of the set item (Step 202), and if it has reached the price of the item, it sends a lock release signal to the control unit 24 (Step 203). Upon receiving the lock release signal, the control unit 24 unlocks the lock unit 22 (Step 204). This makes it possible to operate the handle 15. The control unit 24 determines whether the handle 15 of the operating unit 23 has been operated (for example, one rotation) (Step 205). When the handle 15 has been operated (for example, one rotation), one item 2 is supplied from the item supply unit 21 to the dispensing opening 16 (Step 206). Then, the control unit 24 locks the lock unit 22 (Step 207).

[0097] Meanwhile, if the handle 15 is not operated (Step 205), the control unit 24 determines whether a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) has elapsed since the lock was released (Step 208). If the handle 15 has not been operated (Step 205) and a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) has elapsed since the lock was released (Step 208), the control unit 24 discharges coins equivalent to the inserted amount from the discharge unit (Step 209) and locks the lock unit 22 (Step 207).

[0098] Finally, the control unit 24 issues a supply report stating that item 2 was supplied normally if it was supplied normally, and a supply report stating that item 2 was not supplied if it was not supplied (Step 210). This concludes the explanation of the supply process (Step 9) of the item supply device 1.

[0099] Furthermore, if the supply period for supplying item 2 by item supply device 1 is defined, and item 2 is to be acquired after that period, or if the location where item supply device 1 is installed is far from the user, item 2 may be delivered to the user without them having to go to item supply device 1, subject to the user's request, on the condition that the serial code is authenticated and payment is made.

[0100] In this embodiment, the first identification information 11 is displayed on the item supply device 1, which acts as a trigger for the user to acquire item 2. This first identification information includes information that identifies an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2 to the user, and information that provides access to a means for acquiring second identification information. As a result, the user goes to the location where the item supply device 1 displaying the first identification information 11 is installed. Consequently, the user is guided to the location of the item supply device 1 and learns about item supply devices that supply other items. The user can also learn that various items other than the one supplied are available. Furthermore, in this embodiment, authentication of the second identification information 12 described in the magazine 4 and payment for item 2 are also possible at the location where the first identification information 11 is acquired, taking user convenience into consideration. On the other hand, for companies that provide products such as magazines, supplying item 2 exclusively to product purchasers can increase users' willingness to buy the product.

[0101] Therefore, this embodiment enables beneficial collaboration (joint planning) not only for users who are supplied with goods, but also for both the companies that supply goods to users and the companies that supply products to users. As a result, this embodiment can meet the needs of various consumers, including not only users who are supplied with goods, but also companies that intend to use the goods supply device.

[0102] In this embodiment, the user's action in acquiring the limited purchase right is the purchase of magazine 4, and the second identification information 12 is described as an example of a serial code printed on magazine 4. However, it is clear that this is not the only example. For example, the user's action in acquiring the limited purchase right may be participation in an event, and the second identification information 12 may be a serial code given upon participation in the event. Alternatively, the user's action in acquiring the limited purchase right may be entry into a lottery, and the second identification information 12 may be a serial code given upon winning the lottery. Furthermore, there is not limited to one serial code per magazine 4; multiple serial codes may be printed on a single magazine 4. In this case, since each serial code grants the right to purchase one item in limited quantities, the user can purchase an item equal to the number of serial codes.

[0103] <Modified form of the first embodiment> As a modification of the first embodiment, a goods supply system in which the price of goods 2 is settled by electronic payment will be described. In this modified version, the control unit 24 of the goods supply device 1 unlocks the lock based on a lock release signal from the management device, which has confirmed the completion of the electronic payment by determining the first identification information 11 and authenticating the second identification information 12. Figure 19 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of terminal 3 in this modified example. The calculation unit 51 further comprises a payment settlement unit 513. The payment settlement unit 513 performs processing related to the payment settlement of goods 2 through communication with the management device 5. Figure 20 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 5 in this modified example. The processing unit 62 further comprises a payment management unit 624. The payment management unit 624 performs processing related to the payment of goods 2 through communication with the terminal 3. The storage unit 61 further stores user management data D3, which is payment data for each user. As shown in Figure 21, for example, the user management data D3 is stored in association with user identification information (user ID), password, and electronic money balance.

[0104] Figure 22 is a sequence diagram of the article supply system in this modified example. In this modified example, the process up to the point where the management device 5 authenticates the serial code from the terminal 3 in the supply determination process (Figure 11: Step 4, Figure 12: Step 107) is the same as the process described in the above embodiment (Figures 11 and 12), so only the processes after that will be described. When the management device 5 authenticates the serial code from terminal 3, it sends a payment input screen to terminal 3 (supply determination process: Step 4). Details of the supply determination process will be described later. Terminal 3 displays the payment input screen received from the management device 5 (Step 11). Figure 23 is an example of the payment input screen displayed on terminal 3. The user enters their user ID and password on the displayed input screen (Step 12). The payment settlement unit 513 of terminal 3 transmits the entered user ID and password to the management device 5 (Step 13).

[0105] The management device 5 receives the user ID and password and performs a supply determination process (Step 4). Details of the supply determination process will be described later. Here, payment is made using the received user ID and password. Once payment is complete, guidance information is sent to terminal 3. If the payment result is correct, an unlock signal is sent to the goods supply device 1.

[0106] The supply information guidance unit 512 of terminal 3 receives guidance information from the management device 5 and displays the guidance information (Step 14). The guidance information indicates that the serial code has been authenticated, that payment has been completed, that the goods should be received by operating the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1, and that the handle 15 will be locked in one minute.

[0107] When the item supply device 1 receives the unlock signal, it performs the supply process (Step 15). The user operates the item supply device 1 according to the guidance information and receives the items. Details of the supply process will be described later. Furthermore, the processing after the supply process is the same as in the above embodiment.

[0108] The supply determination process in this modified example will be explained using Figure 24. Steps 100 to 107 were explained using the supply determination process of the above embodiment (Figure 12), so the processes from there onward will be explained. Once the serial code is authenticated (Step 108), the payment management unit 624 sends a payment input screen (Figure 23) to the terminal 3 (Step 301). Then, upon receiving the user ID and password entered on the payment input screen (Step 302), the payment management unit 624 uses the received user ID and password, along with the price information for item 2, to settle the payment (Step 303). The price information for item 2 may be obtained from the item supply device data D1, which corresponds to the price information corresponding to the device ID previously received from terminal 3. In the payment process, first, it is determined whether the user ID and password are valid using the user management data D3. If they are valid, the balance corresponding to the received user ID in the user management data D3 is updated with the amount after deducting the received payment. If the payment is completed successfully (Step 304), the payment management unit 624 sends guidance information corresponding to the successful result to the terminal 3 (Step 109). This guidance indicates that the serial code has been authenticated, that payment has been completed, that the terminal should operate the handle 15 of the item supply device 1 to receive the item, and that the handle 15 will lock after one minute. Then, the supply control unit 623 sends an unlock signal to the terminal 3 (Step 305). Furthermore, if an error occurs during payment, the payment management unit 624 sends information to the terminal 3 informing it that the payment could not be completed, along with details of the error (e.g., user ID and password not registered, insufficient balance, etc.) (Step 110). This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process.

[0109] The supply process in this modified example will be explained using Figure 25. In this modified example, the control unit releases the lock on the lock unit 22 (Step 204) when it receives a lock release signal (Step 401), which is different from the supply process in the above embodiment. Furthermore, a difference from the supply process in the above embodiment is that if a predetermined time has elapsed since unlocking (Step 208), the control unit 24 performs predetermined error processing (Step 402) and then locks the lock unit 22 (Step 207). The error processing includes a refund process to refund the settled price. In the refund process, for example, the control unit 24 may send a request to the management device 5 to refund the price of item 2 (including, for example, the device ID), and the management device 5 may identify the most recent settlement using the device ID as a key and perform a process to cancel the settlement (a process to return the electronic money balance of the user ID to the amount before the price was deducted). Alternatively, as another refund process, for example, the user may be refunded by being given coins equivalent to the price of item 2 from the outlet. Other than the differences mentioned above, the processing is the same as the supply processing in the above embodiment. This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process.

[0110] <Second Embodiment> A second embodiment will now be described. The goods supply system in the second embodiment, like the first embodiment, allows the supply of specific goods 2 from company X via the goods supply device 1, limited to users who have purchased goods 4 from company Y, on the condition that payment is made. However, it differs from the first embodiment in that the first identification information 11 consists of two pieces of identification information (first type first identification information 111 and second type first identification information 112).

[0111] Figure 26 is a front view of an example of an item supply device 1. The display 13 of the item supply device 1 displays (prints) first identification information 111 of type 1 (information display element: QR code). The same display 13 is used for item supply devices 1 that supply the same item. The display 13 contains a description of the item to be supplied. The first identification information 111 of type 1 includes at least a URL, which is a link to a page for authenticating the second identification information 12 described in the magazine 4, and item identification information (item ID). In addition to the above, the first identification information 111 of type 1 may also include information such as the price of the item. The surface of the item supply device 1 displays (prints) first identification information 112 of type 2 (information display element: QR code). The first identification information 112 of type 2 includes at least a unique item supply device identification information (device ID) that identifies the item supply device 1. The first identification information 111 of the first type and the first identification information 112 of the second type are located in different positions, with the first identification information 111 of the first type being located at a higher position than the first identification information 112 of the second type.

[0112] The storage unit 61 of the management device 5 further stores the supply item data D4. Figure 27 shows an example of the supply item data D4. The supply item data D4 associates the item ID and price of item 2, which is the subject of the collaboration between company X and company Y. The configuration of the other devices is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0113] The overall flow of the article supply system in the second embodiment will be explained using the sequence diagram in Figure 28.

[0114] The user goes to a location where an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2, which is exclusively supplied to purchasers of magazine 4, is installed, and obtains an information display of the first type of first identification information 111 displayed on the item supply device 1. The acquisition of the information display is performed using the shooting function of the shooting unit 302 of the terminal 3 in response to the user's operation (Step 21). The user operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of the first type of first identification information 111 is displayed on the display 13 of one of the multiple item supply devices 1 capable of supplying item 2, and then photographs the information display.

[0115] The information acquisition unit 510 of terminal 3 acquires the first identification information 111 of the first type from the information display of the first identification information 111 of the first type that has been photographed. In this example, the acquired first identification information 111 of the first type consists of link destination information (e.g., URL) for a means to authenticate the serial code 12 and the item ID of item 2 (Step 22). In this example, the link destination is assumed to be the management device 5.

[0116] The serial code acquisition unit 511 of terminal 3 sends a request to the management device 5, based on the link destination, which includes the item ID and requests the transmission of a serial code input screen (Step 23).

[0117] The management device 5 receives a request from terminal 3 and performs authentication processing (Step 24). Details of the authentication process will be described later.

[0118] When terminal 3 receives the serial code input screen, the serial code acquisition unit 511 of terminal 3 displays the serial code input screen (Step 25). The user enters the serial code into the displayed input screen (Step 26). In this example, the user enters the serial code "1VB3588" into the serial code input screen. The serial code acquisition unit 511 then transmits the serial code to the management device 5 (Step 27).

[0119] The management device 5 receives the serial code and performs authentication (Step 24). Details of the authentication process will be described later.

[0120] If terminal 3 does not receive an error notification screen from management device 5, and instead receives an input screen for the second type of first identification information 112 from management device 5, it displays the received input screen (Step 28). The user operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of the second type of first identification information 112 is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, which is one of the multiple item supply devices 1 capable of supplying item 2 (it may be an item supply device 1 different from the item supply device 1 on which the information display of the first type of first identification information 111 that was read is displayed), and then takes a picture of the information display (Step 29).

[0121] The information acquisition unit 510 of terminal 3 acquires the second type of first identification information 112 from the information display body of the second type of first identification information 112 that has been photographed (Step 30). In this example, the acquired second type of first identification information 112 includes the device ID ("12560") of the item supply device 1 and link destination information (e.g., URL) that links to the management device 5. The information acquisition unit 510 transmits the device ID ("12560") to the management device 5 based on the link destination (Step 31).

[0122] The management device 5 receives the device ID from terminal 3 and performs a supply determination process (Step 32). Details of the supply determination process will be described later.

[0123] When the supply information guidance unit 512 of terminal 3 receives guidance information, it displays the guidance information (Step 33). Figure 16 is an example of guidance information displayed on terminal 3. The guidance information in Figure 16 indicates that the serial code has been authenticated, that cash should be inserted to pay the price, that the goods should be received by operating the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1, and that the handle 15 will be locked in one minute.

[0124] Meanwhile, the goods supply device 1 receives a supply permission signal, settles the payment, and executes a supply process to supply the goods (Step 34). The user pays the price by inserting cash according to the guidance information displayed on the terminal 3, and operates the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods. The goods supply device 1 then transmits a supply report to the management device 5. Note that the supply process (Step 34) is the same as the supply process in the first embodiment (Figure 13).

[0125] The purchase right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives the supply report, and if the supply report indicates that the goods have been successfully supplied, it adds an authenticated flag to the authentication flag field of the corresponding serial code in the serial code data D2, indicating that authentication has been completed, and makes it impossible to reuse the serial code (Step 35). In addition, it reduces the inventory count of the goods supply device 1 that sent the supply report by 1. The above is a description of the overall operation.

[0126] Next, the authentication process (Step 24) of the management device 5 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 29. When the purchase right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives a request from terminal 3 (Step 400), it obtains the item ID included in the request and determines whether the obtained item ID is included in the supply item data D4 (Step 410). If the obtained item ID is not included in the supply item data D4, it sends an error screen displaying a message indicating that the first identification information of the first type is not valid (Step 406). On the other hand, if the obtained item ID is included in the supply item data D4, it determines that the item ID is valid and sends a serial code input screen to terminal 3 (Step 401). Next, when the purchase right authentication unit 622 receives the serial code entered on the input screen (Step 402), it performs authentication processing on the acquired serial code (Step 403). In this example, the acquired serial code is "1VB3588", and the serial code "1VB3588" is the target of authentication. The purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2. If the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 and the authenticated flag is not set for that serial code, it authenticates the acquired serial code and determines that the user's limited purchase right to item 2 has been authenticated (Step 404). In addition, if the serial code has an expiration date, the purchase right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. If the expiration date of the serial code is valid and the serial code is authenticated, the purchase right authentication unit 622 sends the input screen for the second type of first identification information (Step 405).

[0127] On the other hand, if, as a result of comparing the acquired serial code with the serial code in serial code data D2, the acquired serial code is not included in serial code data D2, or even if the acquired serial code is included in serial code data D2, the authenticated flag is attached to that serial code, or if the serial code has an expiration date set and that expiration date has passed, the purchase right authentication unit 622 will determine that the acquired serial code is inappropriate and will not authenticate it. If the purchase right authentication unit 622 is unable to authenticate the serial code (including cases where the expiration date has passed and authentication is not possible), it will send an error screen to the terminal 3 informing it that the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be authenticated (Step 406). Figure 18 is an example of an error screen indicating that the serial code could not be authenticated.

[0128] Next, the supply determination process (Step 32) of the management device 5 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 30. The item supply device determination unit 621 of the management device 5 receives the second type of first identification information from the terminal 3 (Step 500). In this example, the received device ID is "12560". The item supply device determination unit 621 determines the device ID using the item supply device data D1 (Step 501). The determination of the device ID is to determine whether the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 of the device ID acquired by the user is an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2 which is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4, and identifies the item supply device 1 to which a supply permission signal is to be sent. On the other hand, if the acquired device ID is not included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 of the device ID acquired by the user is not an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2 which is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4, and sends error notification information to the terminal 3 (Step 505). Figure 17 shows an example of error notification information for an item supply device. In this example, the acquired device ID is "12560," and since it is included in the item supply device data D1, it is determined that item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID "12560" is an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2, which is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4.

[0129] Next, the item supply device determination unit 621 checks the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 corresponding to the acquired device ID (Step 503). If the inventory count for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is not "0", the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 corresponding to the acquired device ID is capable of supplying item 2 and identifies the item supply device 1 to which the supply permission signal should be sent. Then, the item supply device determination unit 621 transmits guidance information regarding item supply (Step 504). On the other hand, if the inventory count for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is "0", it transmits error guidance information to the terminal 3 (Step 505). For example, it transmits error guidance information as shown in Figure 31 to the terminal 3.

[0130] If the purchase right authentication unit 622 authenticates the limited purchase right and the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 with the specified device ID is capable of supplying item 2, the supply control unit 623 transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID identified by the item supply device determination unit 621 (Step 506). In this example, the supply control unit 623 transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID "12560". This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process (Step 32) of the control device 5.

[0131] The second embodiment has the following effects in addition to the effects of the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, a first identification information of a first type common to all articles and a first identification information of a second type specific to the article supply device are used separately. By doing so, when changing the articles stored in the storage compartment of the article supply device to other articles, only the first identification information of the first type displayed on the display 13 of the article supply device needs to be changed, without changing the first identification information of the second type displayed on the article supply device, thus reducing the workload for the system operator. Furthermore, by separating the authentication of the second identification information (serial code) from the identification of the item supply device, it is possible to prevent one item supply device from being monopolized by one user for an extended period of time.

[0132] <Modification 1 of the second embodiment> As a modification 1 of the second embodiment, we will describe an article supply system in which the order in which the first identification information of the first type, the first identification information of the second type, and the second identification information are acquired is as follows: first, the first identification information of the first type is acquired; then, the first identification information of the second type is acquired; and then, the second identification information is acquired. In this modification 1 of the second embodiment, the first identification information of the first type and the first identification information of the second type are two-dimensional barcodes (QR codes), and the second identification information (serial code) is a one-dimensional barcode displayed on the magazine. The overall flow of the article supply system in Modification 1 of the second embodiment will be explained using the sequence diagram in Figure 32. In Figure 32, the same process (Step) as in the second embodiment is assigned the same Step number as in the sequence diagram in Figure 28.

[0133] The user operates terminal 3 to photograph the information display of the first type of first identification information 111 displayed on the item supply device 1 (Step 21). The information acquisition unit 510 of terminal 3 activates a driver to read a two-dimensional barcode (QR code) and acquires the first type of first identification information 111 from the photographed information display of the first type of first identification information 111. In this example, the acquired first type of first identification information 111 includes link destination information to the management device 5 (e.g., URL) and the item ID of item 2 (Step 22).

[0134] The information acquisition unit 510 of terminal 3 sends a request to the management device 5, based on the link destination, requesting the transmission of an input screen for the first identification information 112 of the second type, which includes the item ID (Step 23).

[0135] The management device 5 receives a request from terminal 3 and performs authentication and supply determination processing (Step 40). Details of the authentication and supply determination processing will be described later.

[0136] When terminal 3 receives the input screen for the second type of first identification information 112, it receives and displays the input screen for the second type of first identification information 112 (Step 28). The user operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of the second type of first identification information 112 of one of the multiple item supply devices 1 capable of supplying item 2 is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, and then takes a photograph of the information display (Step 29).

[0137] The information acquisition unit 510 of terminal 3 acquires the second type of first identification information 112 from the information display of the second type of first identification information 112 that has been photographed, using a two-dimensional barcode (QR code) driver. In this example, the acquired second type of first identification information 111 includes the link destination information to the management device 5 and the device ID. Based on the link destination, the information acquisition unit 510 transmits the device ID to the management device 5 (Step 31). The management device 5 receives the device ID from terminal 3 and performs authentication and supply determination processing (Step 40). At this point, the management device 5 sends a serial code input screen. The serial code acquisition unit 511 of terminal 3 displays a serial code input screen (Step 25). In this example, the serial code is a barcode displayed in a magazine. The user operates terminal 3 so that the serial code barcode displayed in the magazine is displayed on the terminal 3's display 31 and takes a picture of the barcode (Step 26). The serial code acquisition unit 511 activates a driver that reads one-dimensional barcodes, acquires the serial code from the captured image of the barcode, and transmits it to the management device 5 (Step 27).

[0138] The management device 5 receives the serial code and performs authentication and supply processing (Step 40). Here, the management device 5 transmits guidance information based on the authentication result of the serial code.

[0139] When the supply information guidance unit 512 of terminal 3 receives guidance information, it displays the guidance information (Step 33). Figure 16 is an example of guidance information displayed on terminal 3. The guidance information in Figure 16 indicates that the serial code has been authenticated, that cash should be inserted to pay the price, that the goods should be received by operating the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1, and that the handle 15 will be locked in one minute.

[0140] Meanwhile, the goods supply device 1 receives a supply permission signal, settles the payment, and executes a supply process to supply the goods (Step 34). The user pays the price by inserting cash according to the guidance information displayed on the terminal 3, and operates the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods. The goods supply device 1 then transmits a supply report to the management device 5. Note that the supply process (Step 34) is the same as the supply process in the first embodiment (Figure 13).

[0141] The purchase right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives the supply report, and if the supply report indicates that the goods have been successfully supplied, it adds an authenticated flag to the authentication flag field of the corresponding serial code in the serial code data D2, indicating that authentication has been completed, and makes it impossible to reuse the serial code (Step 35). In addition, it reduces the inventory count of the goods supply device 1 that sent the supply report by 1. The above is a description of the overall operation.

[0142] Next, the authentication and supply determination process (Step 40) of the management device 5 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 33. In Figure 33, the same steps (Steps) as those in the authentication process (Figure 29) and supply determination process (Figure 30) of the second embodiment described above are assigned the same Step numbers as in the flowcharts of Figures 29 and 30. When the item supply device determination unit 621 of the management device 5 receives a request from terminal 3 (Step 400), it obtains the item ID included in the request and determines whether the obtained item ID is included in the supplied item data D4 (Step 410). If the obtained item ID is not included in the supplied item data D4, it sends an error screen displaying a message indicating that the first identification information of the first type is not valid (Step 505). On the other hand, if the obtained item ID is included in the supplied item data D4, it determines that the item ID is valid and sends an input screen for the first identification information of the second type to terminal 3 (Step 405).

[0143] Next, when the item supply device determination unit 621 receives the second type of first identification information (device ID) from the terminal 3 (Step 500), it determines the device ID using the item supply device data D1 (Step 501). If the acquired device ID is not included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), the system determines that the item supply device 1 of the device ID acquired by the user is not an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2, which is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4, and sends error information to terminal 3 (Step 505). On the other hand, if the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), the system determines that the item supply device 1 of the device ID acquired by the user is an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2, which is the subject of the collaboration with magazine 4, and checks the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 of the acquired device ID (Step 503). The item supply device determination unit 621 sends error information to terminal 3 if the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in item supply device data D1 is "0" (Step 505). On the other hand, if the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in item supply device data D1 is not "0", it determines that item supply device 1 for the acquired device ID is capable of supplying item 2. It then sends a serial code input screen (including a command to activate the driver that reads the one-dimensional barcode) to terminal 3 (Step 401).

[0144] Next, when the purchase right authentication unit 622 receives the serial code (Step 402), it performs authentication processing on the acquired serial code (Step 403). The purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in serial code data D2. If the acquired serial code is included in serial code data D2 and the authenticated flag is not set for that serial code, it authenticates the acquired serial code and determines that the user's limited purchase right to item 2 has been authenticated (Step 404). In addition, if the serial code has an expiration date, the purchase right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. If the serial code's expiration date is valid and the serial code is authenticated, the purchase right authentication unit 622 sends guidance information regarding the supply of the item (Step 504). It also sends a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID identified by the item supply device determination unit 621 (Step 506).

[0145] On the other hand, if, as a result of comparing the acquired serial code with the serial code in serial code data D2, the acquired serial code is not included in serial code data D2, or even if the acquired serial code is included in serial code data D2, the authenticated flag is attached to that serial code, or if the serial code has an expiration date set and that expiration date has expired, the purchase right authentication unit 622 sends an error screen to terminal 3 indicating that the authentication of the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be performed (Step 406). This concludes the explanation of the authentication and supply determination process (Step 40) of the management device 5.

[0146] A configuration like Modification 1 of the second embodiment is effective when the first identification information of the first type, the first identification information of the second type, and the second identification information are information displays of different formats. For example, when the first identification information of the first type and the first identification information of the second type are two-dimensional barcodes, and the second identification information is a one-dimensional barcode. In such a case, since the drivers of the terminal 3 that can read each barcode are different, it is more efficient to read the identification information that can be read by the same driver in succession. Alternatively, to obtain the serial code, terminal 3 may transmit an image of the serial code barcode to the management device 5, and the management device 5 may obtain the serial code from the image received from terminal 3.

[0147] <Modification 2 of the second embodiment> As a second modification of the second embodiment, a goods supply system in which payment for goods 2 is made by electronic settlement will be described. In this modified version, the control unit 24 of the goods supply device 1 unlocks the lock based on a lock release signal from the management device that has authenticated the second identification information 12 and determined the second type of first identification information 111, and confirmed the completion of the electronic payment. The functional configuration of terminal 3 in this modification is the same as in the modified example of the first embodiment (Figure 19). The calculation unit 51 further includes a payment settlement unit 513. The payment settlement unit 513 performs processing related to the payment settlement of goods 2 through communication with the management device 5. The functional configuration of the management device 5 in this modification is the same as the modified version of the first embodiment (Figure 20). The calculation unit 51 further includes a payment settlement unit 513. The payment management unit 624 performs processing related to the payment settlement of goods 2 through communication with the terminal 3. The storage unit 61 further stores user management data D3, which is payment data for each user. As shown in Figure 21, for example, the user management data D3 is stored in association with user identification information (user ID), password, and electronic money balance.

[0148] Figure 34 is a sequence diagram of the article supply system in this modified example. In this modified example, the process up to the point where the management device 5 checks the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID (Figure 28: Step 32, Figure 30: Step 503) is the same as the process described in the above embodiment (Figures 28 to 30), so only the processes after that will be described. If the management device 5 determines that the inventory quantity of item 2 in the item supply device 1 corresponding to the acquired device ID is not "0", it sends a payment input screen to the terminal 3 (supply determination process: Step 32). Details of the supply determination process will be described later.

[0149] Terminal 3 displays the payment input screen received from the management device 5 (Step 41). Figure 23 is an example of the payment input screen displayed on terminal 3. The user enters their user ID and password on the displayed input screen (Step 42). The payment settlement unit 513 of terminal 3 transmits the entered user ID and password to the management device 5 (Step 43).

[0150] The management device 5 receives the user ID and password and performs a supply determination process (Step 32). Details of the supply determination process will be described later. Here, payment is made using the received user ID and password. Once payment is complete, guidance information is sent to terminal 3. If the payment result is correct, an unlock signal is sent to the goods supply device 1.

[0151] The supply information guidance unit 512 of terminal 3 receives guidance information from the management device 5 and displays the guidance information (Step 44). The guidance information indicates that the serial code has been authenticated, that payment has been completed, that the goods should be received by operating the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1, and that the handle 15 will be locked in one minute.

[0152] When the item supply device 1 receives the unlock signal, it performs the supply process (Step 45). The user operates the item supply device 1 according to the guidance information and receives the items. The supply process in this modified example is the same as the supply process in the modified example of the first embodiment (Figure 25). Furthermore, the processing after the supply process is also the same as in the above embodiment.

[0153] The supply determination process in this modified example will be explained using Figure 35. Steps 500 to 503 were explained using the supply determination process of the above embodiment (Figure 30), so the processes after that will be explained.

[0154] If the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is not "0" (Step 503), it is determined that the item supply device 1 of the acquired device ID is capable of supplying item 2, and the settlement management unit 624 sends a settlement input screen (Figure 23) to terminal 3 (Step 601). Then, upon receiving the user ID and password entered on the payment input screen (Step 602), the payment management unit 624 uses the received user ID and password, along with the price information for item 2, to settle the payment (Step 603). The price information for item 2 is obtained from the item supply device data D1, which contains price information corresponding to the device ID previously received from terminal 3. In the payment process, first, the user management data D3 is used to determine if the user ID and password are valid. If they are valid, the user management data D3 is updated with the balance corresponding to the received user ID, minus the received payment.

[0155] If the payment is completed successfully (Step 604), the payment management unit 624 sends guidance information corresponding to the successful result to the terminal 3 (Step 504). This guidance indicates that the serial code has been authenticated, that payment has been completed, that the goods should be received by operating the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1, and that the handle 15 will be locked in one minute. Then, the supply control unit 623 sends an unlock signal to the terminal 3 (Step 605). Furthermore, if an error occurs during payment, the payment management unit 624 sends information to the terminal 3 indicating that the payment could not be completed, along with details of the error (e.g., user ID and password not registered, insufficient balance, etc.) (Step 505). This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process.

[0156] In the modified versions of the first and second embodiments, the user is prompted to enter their ID and password on the payment input screen for electronic payment. However, the system is not limited to this. For example, the payment input screen may display the price and a payment button, and when the payment button is pressed, the payment application stored on the terminal 3 transmits the user ID and password for payment stored in the storage unit 307 to the management device 5. Furthermore, although the above embodiment described an example using a payment method in which the payment is deducted from the user's electronic money balance, various other cashless payment methods may be used, such as deducting the payment from the user's bank account in real time or in a lump sum for a predetermined period.

[0157] <Third Embodiment> A third embodiment will now be described. Figure 36 is a diagram illustrating the article supply device 1 of the third embodiment.

[0158] The third embodiment describes a case in which the article supply device 1 of the first embodiment functions as a single unit, and a single article supply device 1 is composed of multiple units 70 and one display unit 71.

[0159] Unit 70 is similar to the article supply device 1 described in the first embodiment. The differences from the article supply device 1 described in the first embodiment are as follows. Unit 70 must not display (attach) the first identification information 11. Unit 70 is equipped with a light-emitting element 72, such as an LED, that is visible to the user. When the control unit 24 receives a supply permission signal, it lights up the light-emitting element 72 to inform the user that unit 70 is ready to supply item 2.

[0160] The display unit 71 is installed at the top of the multiple units 70 and displays the first identification information 11. Here, the first identification information 11 is not the device ID of each unit 70, but the device ID of a single item supply device 1 that groups the multiple units 70 together (hereinafter referred to as the group ID). The display unit 71 also displays that, among the multiple units 70, the unit 70 whose light-emitting element 72 is lit is capable of supplying item 2.

[0161] The configuration of the item supply device data D1 and the configuration of the item supply device determination unit 621 are different in the management device 5.

[0162] The item supply device data D1 similarly stores the device ID of unit 70 and the inventory quantity of item 2 for that unit 70, but these are associated with a group ID, which is the ID of a group that groups multiple units 70 together. This group ID is the group ID included in the first identification information 11 displayed on the display unit 71. Figure 37 is an example of the item supply device data D1 of the third embodiment. In the example of Figure 37, multiple device IDs of units 70 are associated with one group ID "101". That is, the multiple device IDs of units 70 belonging to group ID "101" constitute one item supply device 1.

[0163] The item supply device determination unit 621 receives a request for a serial code input screen from terminal 3, obtains the group ID included in the request instead of the device ID, and determines whether the obtained group ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If the group ID is included in the item supply device data D1, it identifies the unit 70 of the device ID that has item 2 in stock among the device IDs belonging to the group ID obtained by the user. The simplest way to identify the unit 70 of the device ID is to search for the stock quantity among the device IDs belonging to the group ID in order of the lowest device ID number, and identify the unit 70 of the device ID that has stock as the unit 70 that can supply item 2. However, this is just one example, and other methods are also possible. For example, the unit 70 of the device ID may be identified in such a way that the stock quantity is uniform.

[0164] If the item supply device determination unit 621 is authenticated in the same manner as in the first embodiment, it transmits a supply permission signal to the unit 70 of the identified device ID. Upon receiving the supply authorization signal, the control unit 24 of unit 70 unlocks the lock unit 22 once payment is completed. In the case of electronic payment, the control unit 24 of unit 70 unlocks the lock unit 22 based on the supply authorization signal from the management device 5. Other configurations and operations are the same as those of the first embodiment and its variations.

[0165] The third embodiment has the following effects in addition to the effects of the first embodiment and its modifications.

[0166] The management device 5 selects a unit 70 with available stock and sends a supply permission signal or a lock release signal. This prevents errors due to lack of stock after the user's initial identification information has been obtained, avoids the user having to obtain the initial identification information again, and enhances user convenience.

[0167] The party managing the goods supply device does not need to display or attach the first identification information to each unit 70; it is sufficient to display one piece of first identification information on the display unit 71, thus reducing the burden on the party managing the goods supply device. Furthermore, the number of first identification information items displayed on the display unit 71 is not necessarily limited to one; there may be multiple items as needed. <Fourth Embodiment> A fourth embodiment will now be described. Figure 38 is a diagram illustrating the article supply device 1 of the fourth embodiment.

[0168] The fourth embodiment describes a case in which the article supply device 1 of the second embodiment functions as a single unit, and a single article supply device 1 is composed of multiple units 70 and one display unit 71.

[0169] Unit 70 is similar to the article supply device 1 described in the second embodiment. The differences from the article supply device 1 described in the second embodiment are as follows. Unit 70 must not display (attach) the first identification information 111 of the first type.

[0170] The display unit 71 is installed on top of multiple units 70 that supply the same item, and displays the first identification information 11 of the first type. The display unit 71 contains descriptions of the items supplied by the multiple units 70. The user goes to a location where an item supply device 1 capable of supplying items 2, which are exclusively supplied to purchasers of magazine 4, is installed, and uses terminal 3 to photograph the information display of the first type of first identification information 111 displayed on the display unit 71. Other configurations and operations are the same as those of the second embodiment and its variations.

[0171] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above embodiments and can be modified and implemented in various ways within the scope of its technical concept. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0172] 1 Goods supply device 2 Goods 3 terminals 4 products 5 Management device 6. Communication Network

Claims

1. An article supply device capable of supplying articles randomly, A first display unit that displays first identification information on the front of the article supply device, A storage compartment for storing items, A supply unit that supplies articles stored in the aforementioned storage unit, A control unit that controls the supply unit to enable the supply of articles, A means of payment for settling the price, Equipped with, When payment is made in cash, obtaining the first identification information is not required, but when payment is made by electronic means, obtaining the first identification information is required. Goods supply device.

2. The first identification information is code information. The article supply device according to claim 1.

3. The payment of the price by the aforementioned electronic means includes the payment of the price by cashless payment. The article supply device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The control unit supplies items from among a plurality of items stored in the storage unit without requiring the user to select an item. The article supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first identification information displayed on the first display unit is acquired by being read by an external terminal. The article supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The control unit will not accept the electronic payment if the first identification information does not meet the predetermined conditions. The article supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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