Information processing device, method for controlling the information processing device, control program for the information processing device, communication terminal, method for controlling the communication terminal, and control program for the communication terminal

Abstract

To provide a system for the integrated management of facilities used jointly by various companies. [Solution] An information processing device for managing multiple types of facilities located in a building or on the premises of a building where multiple companies are located, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company by consuming points, according to one embodiment of the present invention, comprises: a setting unit that accepts the setting of points necessary for users to use the facilities; an association unit that associates the number of points distributed to users belonging to each of the multiple companies with identification information indicating the user to whom the points were distributed, and stores this information in a predetermined storage unit; and a point update unit that updates the number of points of the recipient user in accordance with the user's use of the facilities.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a control method for the information processing apparatus, a control program for the information processing apparatus, a communication terminal, a control method for the communication terminal, and a control program for the communication terminal.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a service in which unused facilities such as conference rooms and reception rooms owned by a company are shared and utilized by other companies (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 recent years, in a building where multiple companies are located, a new form has emerged for the purpose of differentiating from other buildings and providing added value to users. Specifically, in a new form of building, facilities such as conference rooms and cafeterias that were previously provided as dedicated facilities for each company by each company are now provided as facilities that can be jointly used by each company. Most of the systems for managing the use of facilities in such buildings are premised on use by a single company and are not suitable for use by multiple companies. That is, there is a need for a mechanism to integrally manage the facilities jointly used by each company.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is an information processing device for managing multiple types of facilities located in a building or on the premises of a building where multiple companies are located, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company by consuming points, and comprises: a setting unit that accepts the setting of points necessary for users to use the facilities; an association unit that associates the number of points distributed to users belonging to each of the multiple companies with identification information indicating the user to whom the points were distributed, and stores this information in a predetermined storage unit; and a point update unit that updates the number of points of the recipient user in accordance with the user's use of the facilities.

[0006] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention further comprises a reservation acceptance unit that accepts facility usage reservations from recipient users, and the point update unit may subtract the number of points set for facilities for which usage reservations have been accepted by the reservation acceptance unit from the total number of points of the recipient users.

[0007] In an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the point update unit may update the total number of points of a recipient user in response to a predetermined payment process being completed at the facility by the recipient user.

[0008] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention further comprises a purchase request receiving unit that receives a point purchase request from a recipient user, and a point update unit may add the number of points corresponding to the purchase request to the recipient user's total number of points.

[0009] In an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the setting unit accepts the setting of at least one type of point from among multiple types of points for each of multiple types of facilities, where points are usable only at a predetermined facility among multiple types of facilities, and multiple types of points are distributed to the recipient users, and the point update unit may update the number of points of the type set for the facilities used by the recipient users.

[0010] In an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the setting unit may change a first point, which has been set as a point usable only at a first facility among a plurality of types of facilities, to a point usable only at a second facility different from the first facility, or a point usable at both the first and second facilities, depending on predetermined conditions.

[0011] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a history acquisition unit that stores the usage history of facilities by recipient users in a predetermined storage unit.

[0012] A control method for an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a control method for an information processing device related to the management of multiple types of facilities located in a building or on the premises of a building where multiple companies are located, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company by consuming points, wherein the information processing device performs the steps of: receiving the setting of points necessary for users to use the facilities; associating the number of points distributed to users belonging to each of the multiple companies with identification information indicating the recipient users of the distributed points, and storing this information in a predetermined storage unit; and updating the number of points of the recipient users in accordance with the use of the facilities by the recipient users.

[0013] A control program for an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a control program for an information processing device related to the management of multiple types of facilities located in a building or on the premises of a building where multiple companies are located, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company by consuming points. The information processing device has the following functions: a function to accept the setting of points necessary for users to use the facilities; a function to store in a predetermined storage unit the number of points distributed to users belonging to each company and identification information indicating the recipient users of the points, for each of the multiple companies, in association with a predetermined number of points associated with each company; and a function to update the number of points of recipient users in accordance with the recipient users' use of the facilities.

[0014] A communication terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention is a communication terminal used by a user to communicate with an information processing device for managing multiple types of facilities that can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company in a building where multiple companies are located or on the premises of such a building by consuming points. The terminal comprises a display processing unit that displays a selection screen on a display unit that allows the user to select whether or not to use the points distributed to them when using the facilities, and a transmission unit that transmits a message to the information processing device indicating that the points will be used when the user selects to use the points.

[0015] In a communication terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention, the display processing unit may display a selection screen on the reservation execution screen for executing a facility usage reservation.

[0016] In a communication terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention, the display processing unit may display a point purchase screen on the display unit, which allows the user to execute the purchase of points, and the transmission unit may transmit a point purchase request to the information processing unit in response to the user's operation on the point purchase screen.

[0017] A communication terminal control method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a method for controlling a communication terminal used by a user in which multiple users belonging to multiple companies communicate with an information processing device related to the management of multiple types of facilities that can be jointly used by multiple users by consuming points in a building where multiple companies are located or on the premises of said building, the communication terminal performs the steps of: displaying a selection screen on its display unit that allows the user to select whether or not to use points distributed to the user when using the facilities; and, if the user selects to use the points, transmitting a message to the information processing device indicating that the points will be used.

[0018] A control program for a communication terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention is a control program for a communication terminal used by a user who communicates with an information processing device related to the management of a plurality of types of facilities that can be jointly used by a plurality of users belonging to each company in a building where a plurality of companies are located or on the premises of the building by consuming points. The control program causes the communication terminal to display, on a display unit, a selection screen for allowing the user to select whether to use points distributed to the user when using the facility, and when it is selected by the user to use points, to transmit a message indicating that the points are to be used to the information processing device.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an example of a functional block diagram of a server (information processing device) and a communication terminal (user terminal) in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an example of a table stored in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an example of a table stored in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an example of a table stored in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an example of a table stored in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an example of a table stored in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIGS. 8(a) to (c) are examples of display screens of a user terminal in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIGS. 9(a) to (c) are examples of display screens of a user terminal in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIGS. 10(a) to (c) are examples of display screens of a user terminal in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a server according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the invention according to the present disclosure (also referred to as the present invention) will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to what is shown in the drawings. For example, the number of communication terminals, servers (information processing devices), database servers, owners, users, buildings, dedicated facilities, facilities, etc. illustrated, as well as various names related to data sets (tables), flowcharts, display screens, points, etc. are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0021] <Summary> FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the outline of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The information processing system 600 may be a system that realizes a management service for a plurality of types of facilities that are located in a building in which a plurality of companies are located or on the site of the building and can be jointly used by a plurality of users belonging to each company by consuming points. Here, "can be jointly used" may mean that the facility is not dedicated to a specific user or company. In this specification, a facility that can be jointly used may also be simply referred to as a facility. Hereinafter, as an example of the building, a building 300 as shown in FIG. 1 will be described. However, the building in the present invention is not limited to a building, and may include structures and buildings such as condominiums, commercial facilities, schools, accommodation facilities (hotels, inns, etc.). Also, regardless of the scale of the building, it may include high-rise buildings, complex commercial buildings, station buildings, etc. Further, the site of the building may be the land (area) where the building is located. One or more buildings may be located on the site. Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the "user" may refer to employees such as regular employees and commissioned employees who belong to a company occupying the building 300 and are engaged in the duties of the company.

[0022] Building 300 may house multiple companies (tenants), and each company may have its own exclusive facilities 301 under a lease agreement with the building owner. Exclusive facilities 301 may be, for example, offices or shops. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, Building 300 may have facilities 302 that can be jointly used by users of each company. Facilities 302 may include, for example, work-related facilities such as conference rooms, reception rooms, private booths where one or two to three people can work, and web conferencing booths, as well as facilities for rest and refreshment such as saunas, gyms, shower rooms, nap rooms, recreation rooms, massage parlors, beauty salons, and theater rooms, as well as facilities for creating communication such as cafe spaces, lounges, event spaces, and sound studios, and facilities where goods can be purchased such as restaurants, shops, and vending machines. Facilities 302 are not limited to these. Furthermore, while Figure 1 shows an example in which dedicated facilities 301 are located on the upper floors of building 300 and facilities 302 are located on the lower floors, the layout of dedicated facilities 301 and facilities 302 is not limited to this. Moreover, in this disclosure, facilities 302 are not limited to those located inside building 300, but may also include those located on the site (area) 303 where building 300 is located, which is managed by the owner. In this disclosure, "owner" refers to the entity that owns and manages building 300, and may include natural persons and legal entities.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, the information processing system 600 may realize a point-based economic zone in which multiple companies located in a building 300 can enjoy services using points issued by the owner of the building 300. In one embodiment of the present invention, the owner of the building 300 may grant predetermined points to companies located in the building 300, and these points may be distributed to users who are employees of each company. Users may then use these points to pay for the use of the facilities 302 described above. In this disclosure, "points" may refer to any concept that allows for the enjoyment of services in exchange for the points themselves, and may also be called tickets, coupons, or vouchers. Furthermore, points may be electronic points (electronic data / digital data). That is, points may be digital currency, which is monetary value expressed as electronic data. In addition to the electronic points described above, digital currency may also include electronic money.

[0024] As will be discussed in more detail later, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a user may be able to use a single application to make reservations for each of the multiple types of facilities 302, as well as to check in / out at facilities 302 and purchase points. In other words, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible to provide a management system that can execute various processes from reservation to payment for facilities 302 in an end-to-end manner for multiple companies located in building 300. Furthermore, this may improve the accessibility of facilities 302 in building 300. In addition, the owner may be able to understand the usage status of facilities 302 by looking at the history of points used when using facilities 302. Based on this, the owner may be able to control the use of facilities 302, such as promoting or restricting its use, by adjusting the issuance of points.

[0025] <System Configuration> The explanation of the present invention will continue with Figure 2, along with Figure 1. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] The information processing system 600 may include a server (information processing device) 100, a user terminal (communication terminal) 200, and a database server 101. The server 100 may perform various processes related to the building management services realized by the information processing system 600. The various processes related to the management services may include processes related to the use of facility 302, such as facility 302 reservation processing, start of use (check-in) and end of use (check-out) processing, as well as point processing such as payment and purchase of points by users and distribution of points to users.

[0027] Server 100 may be connected to user terminal 200 via network 500. Network 500 may include wireless networks and wired networks. Specifically, for example, network 500 may be a wireless LAN (WLAN), wide area network (WAN), CDMA (code division multiple access), LTE (long term evolution), LTE-Advanced, 4G, 5G, and 6G or later mobile communication systems. However, network 500 is not limited to these examples and may also be, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), optical fiber, etc. Network 500 may also be a combination of these.

[0028] Although only one server 100 is shown in Figure 2, it is not limited to this. In other words, each function described as being provided by server 100 may be implemented by multiple servers. Furthermore, server 100 may be a distributed server system that operates cooperatively by communicating over a network, for example, or it may be a so-called cloud server. That is, server 100 may include not only physical servers but also virtual servers created by software.

[0029] The user terminal 200 may be a communication terminal for a user that communicates with the server 100 and uses the management services provided by the information processing system 600. The user terminal 200 may have an application installed for using the management services. Alternatively, installation of an application on the user terminal 200 is not required, and the user terminal 200 may access a web page on the server 100 that provides the management services via a web browser or the like.

[0030] In Figures 1 and 2, a smartphone is shown as the user terminal 200. However, the user terminal 200 can be any terminal capable of realizing the functions described in each embodiment described later. For example, the user terminal 200 may be a mobile phone (feature phone), a computer (e.g., tablet, desktop PC, notebook PC), or a wearable device (glasses-type device, watch-type device, etc.). Furthermore, a single user may use multiple communication terminals (e.g., a smartphone and a notebook PC).

[0031] The database server 101 may function as a storage unit that stores various types of information (data) used by the information processing system 600. In Figure 2, only one database server 101 is shown separately from the server 100, but it may be integrated with the server 100. That is, the database server 101 may be the volatile memory or non-volatile memory of the server 100. Furthermore, the database server 101 may consist of multiple storage devices. The database server 101 may be connected to the server 100 via a dedicated internal network different from the network 500, or it may be connected to the server 100 via the network 500.

[0032] <server> Next, using Figure 2, we will describe the hardware configuration and functional configuration of server 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] (1) Server hardware configuration The server 100 may include a control unit 110, a communication unit 120, an input / output unit 130, and a storage unit 170.

[0034] The control unit 110 is typically a processor, and may include a central processing unit (CPU), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a microprocessor, etc., and may be implemented by logic circuits (hardware) or dedicated circuits formed on an integrated circuit chip (IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, LSI (Large Scale Integration)), etc.

[0035] The storage unit 170 may store various programs and data necessary for the operation of the server 100. The storage unit 170 may include, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc. The storage unit 170 may also include memory (RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc.) that provides a working area for the control unit 110.

[0036] The communication unit 120 may be implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, communication software, or a combination thereof. The communication unit 120 may send and receive various data with the user terminal 200 via the network 500. The communication unit 120 may transmit various data to the user terminal 200 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 110. The communication unit 120 may also receive various data transmitted from the user terminal 200 and transmit it to the control unit 110.

[0037] The input / output unit 130 may include an input device for inputting various operations to the server 100, and an output device for outputting processing results processed by the server 100. The input device may include, for example, hardware keys such as a touch panel, touch display, or keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, a camera, or a microphone. The output device may output processing results processed by the control unit 110. The output device may include, for example, a display, touch panel, or speaker.

[0038] (2) Server Functional Configuration The server 100 may include, as functions implemented by the control unit 110, a setting unit 111, a mapping unit 112, a point update unit 113, a usage reservation acceptance unit 114, a reservation setting unit 115, a purchase request acceptance unit 116, and a history acquisition unit 117. Of the functional units shown in Figure 2, those that are not essential in the embodiments described later may be omitted. Furthermore, the functions or processes of each functional unit may be implemented by machine learning or AI (Artificial Intelligence) to the extent that it is feasible. In addition, some of the various processes described later, which are assumed to be performed by the server 100, may be performed by the user terminal 200.

[0039] The setting unit 111 may accept the setting of points required for a user to use the facility 302. Note that the point setting may be done by the owner via a communication terminal owned by the owner. Figure 3 is an example of a table that stores the number of points required to use each facility. Table TB10 may be a dataset that associates a facility ID (IDentifier: an example of identification information) that uniquely identifies each facility with the type of facility, name, type and number of points required to use the facility, and the opening hours of each facility. For example, a facility identified by facility ID "obj_m1" and named "Meeting Room 1" is a meeting room that requires 100 points of type "M points" or 100 points of type "A points" to use, and is available during the time period "6:00-22:00". Furthermore, a facility identified by facility ID "obj_b" and named "Booth" is a web conferencing booth that requires 100 points of type "A points" to use and is available during the time period "9:00-18:00". Points may also have an expiration date. The diagram is just an example, and the table format can be anything as long as it can identify the point information set for each facility. Table TB10 may be stored in the database server 101.

[0040] As mentioned above, there may be multiple types of points. That is, the setting unit 111 may accept the setting of at least one type of point for each of the multiple types of facilities 302, so that it can be used only at a predetermined facility among the multiple types of facilities 302. For example, "M points" that can only be used for meeting rooms, "G points" that can only be used for event spaces, and "S points" that can only be used for theater rooms may be set. Furthermore, a general-purpose "A point" that can be used for multiple facilities may be set. These settings may be made by the owner.

[0041] The mapping unit 112 may issue a predetermined number of points to each of the multiple companies. The number of points issued to each company, i.e., associated with each company, may be determined according to the contract between the owner and the company. The contract may include the number, type, and timing of points distributed to the company by the owner. In one embodiment of the present invention, each company may freely set the recipients of the points issued to it by the owner and the number of points distributed per user. For example, points may be distributed only to full-time employees, or the number and type of points distributed may be changed for each department. The users to whom the points are distributed may be set, for example, on the communication terminal of the person in charge at each company and sent to the server 100. Points may be issued to users at predetermined intervals (for example, every month) in a predetermined number of points. The mapping unit 112 may associate the number of points distributed to users with identification information indicating the users to whom the points were distributed, for each predetermined number of points associated with the multiple companies, and store this information in a predetermined storage unit.

[0042] Figure 4 shows an example of a table storing user information. Table TB20 may include points associated with each user at predetermined intervals. Table TB20 may be a dataset that associates, for example, a user ID that uniquely identifies each user with a company ID that identifies the company to which the user belongs, the user's name, the number of points distributed at predetermined intervals, and contact information (email address in the example shown in the figure). Multiple types of points may be distributed to the recipient user. For example, "User A1" identified by user ID "user_A1" may be issued 500 "A points," and 300 each of "M points," "G points," and "S points." Note that the figure is just an example, and the table format can be anything as long as it can identify information about the points distributed to each user. Furthermore, Table TB20 may store other information about users belonging to a company. For example, Table TB20 may store the user's department and position within the company. Table TB20 may also be stored in the database server 101.

[0043] Figure 5 also shows another example of a table that associates the number of points distributed to a user with identification information indicating the user to whom the points were distributed. As will be explained in detail later, table TB30 may be a table that stores the history of point fluctuations associated with a user. For example, on August 1, 2024, a user identified by user ID "user_A1" was issued 500 "A points," and 300 each of "M points," "G points," and "S points." The total number of points is the sum of the points the user can currently use, with 500 "A points" and 300 each of "M points," "G points," and "S points." Although Figure 5 shows a configuration in which a table exists for each user, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of the table is not limited as long as it is possible to identify the point fluctuations by each user.

[0044] Furthermore, regarding the distribution of points to users, points may be distributed in the form of packages that combine multiple types of points into one. For example, a package may be set up containing a predetermined number of points of a type that can be used at facilities where refreshment can be expected, such as gyms and saunas, or a predetermined number of points of a type that can be used at facilities directly related to work, such as meeting rooms and private booths, and these packages may be distributed to users. Users may also be able to purchase points at the user terminal 200, as shown in Figures 10(a) and (b) described later. By providing purpose-specific packages in this way, it is possible to encourage the use of points in a manner that suits the needs of tenants. The contents of the packages may be set by the building owner. This allows the building owner to encourage the use of facilities that they wish to promote. The distribution form of points and the contents of the packages are not limited to these examples.

[0045] The reservation acceptance unit 114 may accept reservations for the use of facility 302 from the recipient users. The reservation may be sent from the user terminal 200 or from a terminal installed in facility 302.

[0046] The reservation setting unit 115 may register facility 302 usage reservations in response to usage reservations sent from the user terminal 200. Figure 6 is an example of a table storing the reservation status of facility 302. Table TB40 may be a dataset that associates a reservation ID, which identifies each reservation, with the identification information of the reservation target (facility ID), the reservation date, the user ID of the user who made the reservation, the reservation time slot, etc. For example, a reservation identified by reservation ID "rsv_001" indicates that the reservation target is the meeting room "obj_m1", and that a user identified by user ID "user_B2" will use it on "August 8, 2024" from "15:00-16:30". The reservation setting unit 115 may update table TB40 in response to receiving a request for usage reservation from the user terminal 200. Note that the figure is just an example, and the table format can be anything as long as it can identify the reservations set for facility 302. Furthermore, table TB40 may store other information related to reservations. For example, table TB40 may also store information about users who use facility 302 simultaneously, and information indicating whether the reservation is a regularly repeated reservation, such as daily or weekly. Table TB40 may also be stored in the database server 101.

[0047] The purchase request receiving unit 116 may accept purchase requests for points from users who are recipients of the points. As will be described in detail later, according to one embodiment of the present invention, points may not only be distributed by the owner, but users may also purchase additional points at their own expense.

[0048] The point update unit 113 may update the number of points of a recipient user in accordance with the recipient user's use of facility 302. For example, the point update unit 131 may subtract the number of points set for facility 302 for which a reservation has been accepted by the reservation acceptance unit 114 from the total number of points of the recipient user. In this case, the point update unit 113 may update the number of points of the type set for the facility used by the recipient user. In the example in Figure 5, in accordance with the use of facility 302 by user A1, identified by user ID "user_A1", 100 "A points" were consumed on August 2, 2024, and the point update unit 113 may update the total number of "A points" for user A1 from "500" to "400". Note that the point update may be performed when a reservation is accepted and set after being sent from the user terminal 200. Alternatively, if facility 302 is used without prior reservation, the points may be updated in accordance with the predetermined payment processing performed by the user terminal 200 at facility 302 (details will be described later).

[0049] Furthermore, the point update unit 113 may add the number of points corresponding to the purchase request to the total number of points of the recipient user. That is, the point update unit 113 may perform a predetermined settlement process in response to the purchase request sent from the user terminal 200 and update the user's point count. In the example in Figure 5, in response to a purchase request from user A1, identified by user ID "user_A1", 300 "G points" were purchased on August 25, 2024, and the point update unit 113 may update the total number of "G points" for user A1 from "0" to "300". Note that "total number of points for the user" may include points distributed by the building owner and points purchased by the individual. Also, points may include those distributed in the form of the packages described above. Here, the points associated with the user may be of different types, such as points or packages distributed by the owner, or points or packages purchased by the individual, and the point update unit 113 may add (sum up) the points for each type.

[0050] The history acquisition unit 117 may store the usage history of facility 302 by the recipient user in a predetermined storage unit. Figure 7 may be an example of a table storing the usage history of facility 302. Table TB50 may be a table that stores, for each facility, the type of points consumed when using the facility and the total number of points, in predetermined daily units (daily in the example of Figure 7). The types of points may be "owner-distributed" points distributed by the building owner and "personal purchase" points purchased additionally by the user at their own expense. However, the history may be stored in more detail than the above-mentioned "A points," "G points," etc. For example, in the conference room identified by facility ID "obj_m1," on August 1, 2024, "2000" "owner-distributed" points were used, but no "personal purchase" points were used. Note that Figure 7 shows an example of storing consumed points on a daily basis, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be done weekly, monthly, etc. Furthermore, while Figure 7 shows a configuration in which a table exists for each facility, the present invention is not limited to this, and any configuration is acceptable as long as the history of points used at each facility can be identified. Also, table TB50 may be stored in the database server 101.

[0051] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the usage status of facility 302 can be visualized by the history of points used when using facility 302. The owner can adjust the types of points issued according to the usage status of facility 302, and can control the use of facility 302, such as promoting or suppressing its use. For example, if a facility is not used much, the owner can set it to distribute more points of the type used at that facility, or to temporarily reduce the number of points required.

[0052] The setting unit 111 may, depending on predetermined conditions, change the first point, which was initially set to be usable only at the first facility among several types of facilities, to a second facility different from the first facility, or to a second facility usable at both the first and second facilities. For example, depending on predetermined conditions, "M points" that are usable only in meeting rooms may be made usable in saunas as well. The "predetermined conditions" may be any conditions that prevent the first point from being lost without being used. For example, the predetermined conditions may be that a predetermined number of first points held by all users have a predetermined number of days remaining until their expiration date. The second facility may be a facility with high usage. A learning unit (not shown) may learn the point usage history and the attributes of the users who used the points, and determine the timing for changing the usage destination of the first point, or set the second facility to which the change will be made.

[0053] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to promote the use of points of a type that is used infrequently, reduce wasted points, and ensure the interests of both owners and users.

[0054] <User terminal> Next, using Figure 2, the hardware configuration and functional configuration of a user terminal (communication terminal) 200 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0055] (1) Hardware configuration of the user terminal The user terminal 200 may include a control unit 210, a communication unit 220, a display unit 230, an input / output unit 240, and a storage unit 270.

[0056] The control unit 210 is typically a processor and may be implemented by a central processing unit (CPU), MPU, GPU, etc. The control unit 210 may perform the functions and methods shown in each embodiment by reading a program stored in the storage unit 270 and executing code or instructions contained in the program.

[0057] The communication unit 220 may be implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, communication software, or a combination thereof. The communication unit 220 may send and receive various data to and from the server 100 via the network 500 using a predetermined communication protocol. The communication unit 220 may transmit various data to the server 100 according to instructions from the control unit 210. The communication unit 220 may also receive various data transmitted from the server 100 and transmit it to the control unit 210. Note that if the communication unit 220 is composed of a physically structured circuit, it may be referred to as a communication circuit.

[0058] The display unit 230 is a monitor that displays data according to the display data written to the frame buffer, and may be, for example, a touch panel, a touch display, etc.

[0059] The input / output unit 240 may include an input device for inputting various operations to the user terminal 200, and an output device for outputting processing results processed by the user terminal 200. The input device may include, for example, a touch panel, a touch display, a camera, and a microphone, and the output device may include, for example, a display, a touch panel, a speaker, and the like.

[0060] The storage unit 270 may store various programs and data necessary for the operation of the user terminal 200. For example, the storage unit 270 may store application programs for using the management services provided by the information processing system 600. The storage unit 270 may include, for example, flash memory. The storage unit 270 may also include memory (RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc.) that provides a working area for the control unit 210.

[0061] (2) Functional configuration of user terminals The user terminal 200 may include a display processing unit 211, a usage reservation generation unit 212, a purchase request generation unit 213, and a payment request generation unit 214 as functions implemented by the control unit 210. Note that some of the functional units shown in Figure 2 that are not essential in the embodiments described later may be omitted. Furthermore, the functions or processes of each functional unit may be implemented by machine learning or AI to the extent feasible. Note that some of the various processes described later, which are assumed to be performed by the user terminal 200, may be performed by the server 100.

[0062] The display processing unit 211 may control the display of data on the display unit 230. As will be described in detail later, the display processing unit 211 may display a reservation screen for facility 302 on the display unit 230 based on information regarding the reservation status of facility 302 obtained from the server 100. The display processing unit 211 may also display a selection screen on the display unit 230 that allows the user to choose whether or not to use points distributed to them when using the facility. Furthermore, the display processing unit 211 may display a point purchase screen on the display unit 230 that allows the user to purchase points.

[0063] As will be explained in more detail later, the reservation generation unit 212 may send a reservation for the use of facility 302 to the server 100 via the communication unit 220. The purchase request generation unit 213 may send a purchase request for points to the server 100 via the communication unit 220. The payment request generation unit 214 may send a payment request for points indicating that points will be used to the server 100 via the communication unit 220.

[0064] <Display screen> Hereafter, the functional configuration of the user terminal will be further explained using examples of the display screen of the user terminal 200 shown in Figures 8 to 10. Note that the figures are examples, and the present invention is not limited to these.

[0065] Figures 8(a) to 8(c) show examples of reservation screens for facility 302 on the user terminal 200. In screen D1 of Figure 8(a), the user may set the facility to reserve, the date, time slot (start time and end time, etc.), participants, etc. The display processing unit 211 may display a selection screen on the display unit 230 that allows the user to choose whether or not to use points distributed to them when using the facility. For example, in the example of screen D1, a point selection area 11 is displayed, which includes the points required to use the facility selected in the facility selection area 10 (meeting room 1 in the example) (400 points in the example). When the "Change" button is selected in the selection area 11, the display processing unit 211 may transition the display unit 230 to screen D2 of Figure 8(b). In the point selection area 12 on screen D2, the number of points held by the user is displayed for each type, and the user may select the type of points to use when using facility 302. The display processing unit 211 may transition the display unit 230 to screen D3 in Figure 8(c) when the user selects the "OK" button in the point selection area 12 on screen D2. Then, when the user selects the "OK" button in the notification 13 on screen D3, the reservation generation unit 212 may generate the information necessary for the reservation. The information necessary for the reservation may include the facility to be reserved, the date, the time slot (start time and end time, etc.), the type of points used by the user, and information about the participants. The information necessary for use may be transmitted to the server 100 via the communication unit 220.

[0066] The reservation acceptance unit 114 of the server 100 may register the reservation for use of facility 302 in accordance with the information transmitted from the user terminal 200 and update table TB40 in Figure 6. In addition, the point update unit 113 may update the user's point count in accordance with the reservation and update table TB30 in Figure 5.

[0067] Figure 8 illustrates the scenario in which facility 302 is reserved in advance. However, facility 302 may also be available for use by using (paying with) points at the start of use, even without a prior reservation. Figures 9(a) to 9(c) show examples of display screens when using facility 302 with a user terminal 200 and paying with points. In the example in Figure 9, the payment of points is processed by reading predetermined identification information provided near the entrance of facility 302 with the user terminal 200. The predetermined identification information may be, for example, two-dimensional identification information such as a QR code (registered trademark), but is not limited to this.

[0068] The display processing unit 211 may transition the display unit 230 to screen D5 in Figure 9(b) when the user selects the scan icon 20 on, for example, the home screen D4 in Figure 9(a). Screen D5 is an example of a screen for reading predetermined identification information. Then, in response to the QR code installed in facility 302 being read by the camera of the user terminal 200, the display processing unit 211 may transition the display unit 230 to screen D6 in Figure 9(c). Screen D6 is a selection screen for whether or not to use facility 302 using points, and may include a display area 21 for the points required to use the facility to be used (in the example shown, the sound studio) and a selection area 22 for the type of points to be used when using the facility. In response to the selection of the type of points in the selection area 22 of screen D6 and the selection of the "OK" button, the payment request generation unit 214 may send information regarding point payment to the server 100 via the communication unit 220. Information regarding point payment may include the facility to which the points are to be paid, the user paying the points, and the date and time. The methods of point payment are not limited to those described above. For example, a QR code that allows payment of points associated with the user may be displayed on the display unit 230 of the user terminal 200, and point payment may be possible by having a terminal installed in the facility read that QR code.

[0069] Furthermore, the point update unit 113 of the server 100 may update the user's point count and update table TB30 in Figure 5 in response to receiving information regarding point payment transmitted from the user terminal 200 or a terminal installed in the facility.

[0070] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a points-based economic zone can be realized using points distributed by the owner, and these points may be used for the use of various facilities attached to the building. In this case, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible to make reservations for the use of various facilities and process payments using points through a single application. In other words, it is possible to provide a management system that can execute various processes from reservation to payment for facility 302 in an end-to-end manner, thereby improving the accessibility of facility 302 in building 300.

[0071] Figures 10(a) to 10(c) show examples of point purchase screens on the user terminal 200. As shown in screen D7 of Figure 10(a), the display processing unit 211 may display a selection area for the type and number of point packages to be purchased on the display unit 230. For example, in the example of screen D7, a list of available "refresh packs" is displayed. A refresh pack may be a package containing a predetermined number of points of a type that can be used at the facility 302 used for refreshing or resting. When a package is selected by the user on screen D7, the display processing unit 211 may transition the display unit 230 to screen D8 of Figure 10(b). The details of the package selected on screen D7 may be displayed in the point details display area 32 on screen D8. In response to the selection of the "Proceed to Purchase" button in the details display area 32, the display processing unit 211 may transition the display unit 230 to screen D9 of Figure 10(c). The display processing unit 211 may display a notification 33 on screen D9 indicating that the purchase of points will be at the user's personal expense. If the user selects the "OK" button in the notification 33, the purchase request generation unit 213 may generate a purchase request including the number and type of points to be purchased as necessary information for the purchase. The purchase request may be transmitted to the server 100 via the communication unit 220.

[0072] Furthermore, the point update unit 113 of the server 100 may update the user's point count and update the table TB30 in Figure 5 in response to the completion of a predetermined settlement process based on the purchase request.

[0073] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, since users can purchase points themselves, it is possible to prevent delays in facility use due to a shortage of points.

[0074] <Server control method> The control method for the server 100 described above will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 11. The setting unit 111 of the server 100 may accept the setting of points required to use multiple types of facilities that are installed in a building or on the premises of a building where multiple companies are located, and which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company by consuming points (step S11). As a result, the database server 101 stores the table TB10 shown in Figure 3. The mapping unit 112 may associate a predetermined number of points associated with each of the multiple companies with the number of points distributed to users belonging to the company and identification information indicating the user to whom the points were distributed, and store this in a predetermined storage unit (step S12). As a result, the database server 101 stores the table TB20 shown in Figure 4 and the table TB30 shown in Figure 5. The point update unit 113 may update the number of points of the recipient users according to their use of the facilities (step S13).

[0075] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to promote the use of facilities in buildings owned by the owner and realize a highly user-friendly management service.

[0076] <User terminal control method> The control method for the user terminal 200 described above will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 12. The display processing unit 211 of the user terminal 200 may display a selection screen on the display unit 230 that allows the user to choose whether or not to use points when using multiple types of facilities, which are provided in a building or on the premises of a building where multiple companies are located, and which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company by consuming points (step T11). Then, if the user chooses to use points, the control unit 110 may transmit a message to the building management information processing device 100 via the communication unit 220 indicating that the points will be used (step S12).

[0077] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, points are distributed to users for the use of facilities. Users can then complete reservations, check-ins, and point processing with simple operations on a terminal when using the facilities. This can lead to an increase in facility utilization rates, increased user satisfaction, and an improvement in the added value of the building due to the revitalization of the facilities.

[0078] The present invention has been described based on various drawings and embodiments, but it should be noted that those skilled in the art will find it easy to make various modifications and alterations based on this disclosure. Therefore, it should be noted that these modifications and alterations are within the scope of the present invention. For example, the functions included in each component, step, etc., can be rearranged in a way that is logically consistent, and multiple components or steps, etc., can be combined into one or divided. Furthermore, the configurations shown in the above embodiments may be combined as appropriate. Also, the processing described as being performed by the server 100 may be performed by the user terminal 200, and the processing described as being performed by the user terminal 200 may be performed by the server 100.

[0079] For example, the above description explained a configuration in which the destinations for using points are determined by the type of points. However, it is also possible for no types of points to be assigned, and for all facilities to be usable with only one type of point.

[0080] Furthermore, while the above description has focused on the sale of points in package form, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, points may be available for purchase by type.

[0081] Furthermore, while the above describes a system in which the number of points is updated according to the user's reservation, the number of points may also be updated when the user cancels a reservation.

[0082] Furthermore, the above description explains a method in which points are paid when a user uses a facility without making a reservation, by reading identification information installed at the facility with the user terminal 200. However, regardless of whether the user has a reservation, points may be updated when the user checks in to the facility (starts using it). For example, as explained using Figure 9(b), the user's check-in may be transmitted to the server 100 by reading the identification information (QR code) installed at the facility. Then, points may be updated (i.e., points may be deducted) in response to the check-in. Note that the method of check-in is not limited to this, and check-in may also be performed using fingerprint authentication or voiceprint authentication.

[0083] Furthermore, the above described an example of a points-based economic zone being formed by points issued by a building owner. However, points are not limited to consumption within the building and may be usable for services outside the building. For example, points distributed by the building owner may be converted into points or electronic money (including credit cards) that can be used at stores, facilities, or services outside the building. In addition, the above explained that a single application may be able to handle reservations for various facilities, check-ins at facilities, and payment processing using points. However, when using points for services outside the building as described above, it may be necessary to link with different applications. For example, points issued by the building owner may be usable in an application related to food delivery services or an application related to the use of transportation (railways, taxis, shared bicycles, etc.).

[0084] The programs of each embodiment of this disclosure may be provided stored in a storage medium readable by a server, which is an information processing device. The storage medium is a "non-temporary tangible medium" capable of storing programs. The programs include, for example, software programs and information processing device programs. When each functional unit of the server 100 is implemented by software, the server 100 functions as a setting unit 111, a mapping unit 112, a point update unit 113, a usage reservation acceptance unit 114, a reservation setting unit 115, a purchase request acceptance unit 116, and a history acquisition unit 117 by having the processor execute a program loaded into memory. Similarly, when each functional unit of the user terminal 200 is implemented by software, the user terminal 200 functions as a display processing unit 211, a usage reservation generation unit 212, and a purchase request generation unit 213 by having the processor execute a program loaded into memory.

[0085] The storage medium may, where appropriate, include one or more semiconductor-based or other integrated circuits (ICs) (e.g., field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), hard disk drives (HDDs), hybrid hard drives (HHDs), optical disks, optical disk drives (ODDs), magneto-optical disks, magneto-optical drives, floppy diskettes, floppy disk drives (FDDs), magnetic tape, solid-state drives (SSDs), RAM drives, secure digital cards or drives, any other suitable storage medium, or two or more suitable combinations thereof. The storage medium may, where appropriate, be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination of volatile and non-volatile.

[0086] Furthermore, the program disclosed herein may be provided to the server 100 via any transmission medium capable of transmitting the program (such as a communication network or broadcast waves).

[0087] Furthermore, each embodiment of this disclosure can also be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, where the program is embodied by electronic transmission. The programs of this disclosure may be implemented using, for example, scripting languages ​​such as JavaScript® and Python, C language, Go language, Swift®, Koltin®, Java®, etc.

[0088] According to each aspect of this disclosure described above, by providing users with a more user-friendly work environment, we can contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, "Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and inclusive, safe [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 100 Servers (Information Processing Devices) 110 Control Unit 111 Settings Section 112 Correspondence section 113 Point Update Section 114 Reservation Department 115 Reservation Settings Section 116 Purchase Request Reception Department 117 History Acquisition Section 120 Communications Department 130 Display section 170 Storage section 101 Database Server 200 User terminals (communication terminals) 210 Control Unit 211 Display Processing Unit 212 Reservation Generation Unit 213 Purchase request generation section 214 Payment Request Generation Unit 220 Communications Department 230 Display section 240 Input / output section 270 Storage section 300 Buildings 301 Dedicated facilities 302 facilities 500 Networks 600 Information Processing Systems

Claims

1. An information processing device for managing multiple types of facilities located in a building or on the premises of such a building, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each of the companies by consuming points, A setting unit that accepts the setting of points necessary for the user to use the aforementioned facility, A matching unit stores in a predetermined storage unit, the number of points distributed to users belonging to each of the aforementioned multiple companies, and identification information indicating the recipient user to whom the points were distributed, in association with a predetermined number of points associated with each of the aforementioned multiple companies. A point update unit updates the number of points of the recipient users in accordance with their use of the facilities, An information processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The system further includes a reservation acceptance unit that accepts reservations for the use of the facility from users of the distribution destinations, The point update unit subtracts the number of points set for the facility for which a reservation has been accepted by the reservation acceptance unit from the total number of points of the recipient user. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The points update unit updates the total number of points of the recipient user in response to the recipient user completing a predetermined payment process at the facility. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The system further includes a purchase request receiving unit that receives purchase requests for the points from the recipient users. The point update unit adds the number of points corresponding to the purchase request to the total number of points of the recipient user. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The setting unit accepts the setting of at least one type of point from among the multiple types of points for each of the multiple types of facilities, as a point that can be used only at a predetermined facility among the multiple types of facilities. The aforementioned users are distributed with the aforementioned multiple types of points, and the point update unit updates the number of points of the type set for the facilities used by the aforementioned users. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The setting unit, according to predetermined conditions, changes a first point, which was set as a point usable only at the first of the multiple types of facilities, to a point usable only at the second facility, which is different from the first facility, or a point usable at both the first and second facilities. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The system further includes a history acquisition unit that stores the usage history of the facility by the recipient user in the predetermined storage unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. A control method for an information processing device related to the management of multiple types of facilities located in a building or on the premises of such a building, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each of the companies by consuming points, Information processing device, A step of accepting the setting of points necessary for the user to use the aforementioned facility, The steps include: storing in a predetermined storage unit the number of points distributed to users belonging to each of the aforementioned multiple companies, and the identification information indicating the user to whom the points were distributed, for each of the aforementioned multiple companies, a predetermined number of points associated with each company; The steps include updating the number of points for the recipient users in accordance with their use of the facilities, A method for controlling an information processing device to perform the following actions.

9. A control program for an information processing device related to the management of multiple types of facilities located in a building or on the premises of such a building, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each of the companies by consuming points, In an information processing device, A function that accepts the setting of points necessary for the user to use the aforementioned facility, A function to store in a predetermined storage unit, associating a predetermined number of points associated with each of the aforementioned multiple companies with the number of points distributed to users belonging to the said company and identification information indicating the recipient user of the points, A function to update the number of points of the recipient users in accordance with their use of the facilities, A control program for an information processing device that makes this possible.

10. A communication terminal used by multiple users, located in a building or on the premises of a building occupied by multiple companies, to communicate with an information processing device for managing multiple types of facilities, which can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company by consuming points, A display processing unit that displays a selection screen on the display unit allowing the user to choose whether or not to use the points distributed to the user when using the aforementioned facility, If the user chooses to use the points, the transmission unit transmits a message to the information processing device indicating that the points will be used. A communication terminal equipped with the following features.

11. The display processing unit displays the selection screen on the reservation execution screen that executes the reservation for use of the facility. The communication terminal according to claim 10.

12. The display processing unit causes the point purchase screen for executing the point purchase to be displayed on the display unit. The transmission unit transmits a request to purchase the points to the information processing device in response to the user's operation on the points purchase screen. The communication terminal according to claim 10.

13. A method for controlling communication terminals used by multiple users, each belonging to a different company, to communicate with an information processing device for managing multiple types of facilities, which can be jointly used by multiple users by consuming points, in a building or on the premises of such a building where multiple companies are located. The communication terminal, The steps include: displaying a selection screen on the display unit that allows the user to choose whether or not to use the points distributed to them when using the aforementioned facility; If the user chooses to use the points, the information processing device transmits a message indicating that the points will be used. A method for controlling a communication terminal to perform the following actions.

14. A control program for a communication terminal used by a user, which communicates with an information processing device for managing multiple types of facilities that can be jointly used by multiple users belonging to each company in a building or on the premises of such a building, by consuming points, On the communication terminal, The system includes a function to display a selection screen on the display unit that allows the user to choose whether or not to use the points distributed to them when using the aforementioned facility, If the user chooses to use the points, the information processing device has a function to transmit a message indicating that the points will be used. A method for controlling communication terminals to achieve this.

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