Nodes, processing methods, and programs

Abstract

The purpose is to prevent duplicate issuance when issuing certificates for asset production methods. [Solution] The image processing device 7 (an example of an information processing device) transmits issuance request information to an intermediary system 1000 that mediates the issuance of certificates to the image processing device 7, indicating the type of asset production method and requesting the issuance of a certificate to prove the production method. The image processing device 7 receives certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from the intermediary system 1000 and outputs the received certificate data.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, power produced by renewable energy (referred to as "green power" in Japan) has attracted attention. This power is produced by using resources such as solar power, solar heat, wind power, biomass, geothermal energy, hydropower, and heat in the atmosphere, which are renewable energy resources. Power generation using renewable energy produces almost no CO2, which is a cause of global warming, compared to power generation using fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and liquefied natural gas. Therefore, among the resources used for power production, renewable energy is an environmentally friendly energy source. By operating factories and the like using such environmentally friendly green power, corporate value can be improved. In addition, there is a method of using blockchain for trading power produced by renewable energy and the like (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Here, even when the production methods of assets are different, such as when the types of resources used for producing assets such as power are different, the quality of assets such as electricity finally reaching the user is the same. Therefore, the user does not know whether the received electricity was produced using renewable energy. Therefore, in order to prove the trading of assets such as power produced by renewable energy, a certificate issued by a certification authority such as a certificate-issuing business operator that has obtained approval from a country, a local public body, or the like is used. For example, a company can apply for the issuance of a certificate and use the issued certificate to prove the added value to the environment to improve corporate value. Also, a method of using blockchain in the trading of securities having a similar nature to the certificate is also known (see Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

[0005] However, in order to prevent the misuse of certificates issued by certification authorities, it is necessary to prevent the issuance of the same certificate multiple times. However, conventional methods have the problem that it is not possible to know whether a certificate has been issued or not, and there is a risk of duplicate issuance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention according to claim 1 is an information processing device characterized by having: a transmission means for transmitting issuance request information to an intermediary system that mediates the issuance of a certificate, indicating the type of asset production method and requesting the issuance of a certificate to prove the production method; a receiving means for receiving certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from the intermediary system; and an output means for outputting the received certificate data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] As explained above, the present invention has the effect of preventing duplicate issuance when issuing certificates for asset production methods. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the trading system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a hardware configuration diagram of a smartphone. [Figure 3] This is a hardware configuration diagram of a smart meter. [Figure 4] This is a hardware configuration diagram of the intermediary server, certificate issuing server, and nodes. [Figure 5] It is a hardware configuration diagram of an image processing device. [Figure 6] Among the trading systems, it is a functional block diagram of a smartphone and a smart meter. [Figure 7] Among the trading systems, it is a functional block diagram of an intermediary server, a certificate issuing server, and a node. [Figure 8] Among the trading systems, it is a functional block diagram of an image processing device. [Figure 9A] It is a conceptual diagram showing a user management table. [Figure 9B] It is a conceptual diagram showing a provider management table. [Figure 10A] It is a conceptual diagram of a transaction content management table. [Figure 10B] It is a conceptual diagram of a transaction history management table. [Figure 11A] It is a conceptual diagram of an applicant management table. [Figure 11B] It is a conceptual diagram of a certificate type management table. [Figure 12] It is a sequence diagram showing the registration process of an intermediary. [Figure 13A] It is an example display of an intermediary registration screen. [Figure 13B] It is a diagram showing an example display of an intermediary registration screen. [Figure 14] It is a sequence diagram showing the registration process of the transaction content of an asset. [Figure 15A] It is an example display of a transaction content registration screen before input and selection. [Figure 15B] It is a diagram showing an example display of a transaction content registration screen after input and selection. [Figure 16] It is a sequence diagram showing the process of setting the owner of an asset provided by a provider to an intermediary. [Figure 17] It is a conceptual diagram of transaction information and asset information. [Figure 18] It is a sequence diagram showing the process of setting the owner of an asset mediated by an intermediary to a user. [Figure 19]It is a conceptual diagram of transaction information and asset information when power trading is conducted. [Figure 20] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate. [Figure 21A] It is a diagram showing an example of the certificate issuance screen before input and selection. [Figure 21B] It is a diagram showing an example of the certificate issuance screen after input and selection. [Figure 22] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate. [Figure 23] It is a conceptual diagram of transaction information and asset information when the certificate is issued. [Figure 24] It is a diagram showing an example of the printed production method certificate. [Figure 25] It is a functional block diagram of the mediation server, certificate issuance server, and node in the trading system according to Variation 1. [Figure 26] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate in the trading system according to Variation 1. [Figure 27] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate in the trading system according to Variation 1. [Figure 28] It is a functional block diagram of the image processing device in the trading system according to Variation 2. [Figure 29] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate in the trading system according to Variation 2. [Figure 30] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate in the trading system according to Variation 2. [Figure 31] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate in the trading system according to Variation 3. [Figure 32] It is a sequence diagram showing the issuance process of the asset production method certificate in the trading system according to Variation 3. [Figure 33A]This diagram shows an example of the applicant information input screen. [Figure 33B] This is a diagram showing an example of the certificate issuance screen. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements will be denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0010] [Outline of the system configuration] First, we will explain the general configuration of the trading system (tracking system) 1. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the trading system according to this embodiment. Here, we will explain the case where electricity is handled as an example of an asset. Note that the ownership of the asset and the type of production method of the asset are managed in the asset information described later.

[0011] <Explanation of each vendor> As shown in Figure 1, there are electricity producers Aa and Ab, electricity consumers Ca, intermediary Da, and applicant E. Producer Aa is an example of a provider, and is a company that produces electricity from solar power, which is an example of renewable energy used in the production of electricity produced from renewable energy sources (called "green electricity" in Japan). Producer Ab is an example of a provider, and is a company that produces electricity from petroleum, which is an example of fossil fuels. Providers also include cooperatives that buy assets from producers and resell them. Consumer Ca is an example of a user, and is a company that consumes electricity provided by producers Aa and Ab. Users also include those who acquire ownership of assets such as real estate, where the asset is not consumed like electricity. Intermediary Da is a company that mediates transactions of electricity ownership. Applicant E is a user who makes various applications using production method certificates issued by public institutions such as the national or local government to prove the type of electricity production method. Electricity production methods include those utilizing solar energy, solar thermal energy, wind power, biomass, geothermal energy, hydropower, atmospheric heat, or nuclear power. Of these, solar energy, solar thermal energy, wind power, biomass, geothermal energy, hydropower, and atmospheric heat belong to the broad category of renewable energy sources. Petroleum, coal, and liquefied natural gas belong to the broad category of fossil fuels. Electricity generation using renewable energy sources emits almost no CO2, which is a cause of global warming, compared to electricity generation using fossil fuels, making renewable energy a more environmentally friendly energy source. In this embodiment, solar energy, solar thermal energy, wind power, biomass, geothermal energy, hydropower, or atmospheric heat are used as renewable energy sources. Petroleum, coal, or liquefied natural gas are used as fossil fuels.

[0012] Furthermore, intermediary Da acts as an intermediary for issuing production method certificates by public institutions such as the national and local governments. Intermediary Da mediates the issuance of production method certificates in response to requests from applicant E and provides the issued production method certificates to applicant E. This allows applicant E to use the production method certificate to apply for public subsidies based on, for example, their renewable energy utilization rate (CO2 reduction rate).

[0013] There may be one or more producers. There may also be multiple consumers and intermediaries.

[0014] <Power transmission and distribution network> Substation Bx is the nearest substation to producers Aa and Ab, and substation By is the nearest substation to consumer Ca. The power transmission and distribution network 10 is constructed by substations Bx and By, and transmission and distribution lines, etc. The electricity supplied by producers Aa and Ab is provided to consumer Ca via the power transmission and distribution network 10.

[0015] <Data communication network> Producer Aa owns a smartphone 2a, a smart meter 3a, and a power generator 4a. Producer Ab owns a smartphone 2b, a smart meter 3b, and a power generator 4b. Consumer Ca owns a smartphone 2c, a smart meter 3c, and an electrical device 8. Intermediary Da manages an intermediary system 1000 consisting of an intermediary server 5 and a certificate issuing server 6. This intermediary Da is a corporation or an individual (e.g., a president, director, IT administrator, or other employee). Applicant E owns an image processing device 7.

[0016] The number of smartphones may be two or four or more, depending on the number of producers and consumers. Hereafter, the smartphones 2a, 2b, and 2c will be collectively referred to as Smartphone 2. Similarly, the number of smart meters 3a, 3b, and 3c may be two or four or more, depending on the number of producers and consumers. Hereafter, the smart meters 3a, 3b, and 3c will be collectively referred to as Smart Meter 3. The number of power generation devices 4a and 4b may be one or three or more, depending on the number of producers. Hereafter, the power generation devices 4a and 4b will be collectively referred to as Power Generation Device 4.

[0017] Furthermore, there may be two or more intermediary systems 1000, depending on the number of intermediaries. Also, the intermediary server 5 and the certificate issuance server 6 may each be built on a single computer or on multiple computers. There may be two or more electrical devices 8, depending on the number of consumers.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the transaction system (tracking system) 1, which serves as a data communication network, is constructed by nodes 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, including multiple smartphones 2a, 2b, 2c, multiple smart meters 3a, 3b, 3c, multiple power generation devices 4a, 4b, an image processing device 7, an intermediary system 1000, and computers. Furthermore, the blockchain network 90 is constructed by nodes 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d. The blockchain network 90 is constructed within a communication network 100, such as the internet. The communication network 100 is constructed by the internet, mobile communication networks, LANs (Local Area Networks), etc. Note that the communication network 100 may include not only wired communication but also wireless communication networks such as mobile communication systems (4G, 5G, 6G, etc.) and WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access). Also, while there are actually many nodes 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, only four are shown here due to space limitations. Nodes 9a, 9b, 9c, and 9d are each managed by different companies or entities. In some cases, an intermediary, Da, may be included among these different companies. Hereafter, nodes 9a, 9b, 9c, and 9d will be collectively referred to as Node 9. Node 9 can be, for example, a smartphone, tablet, mobile phone, or PC (Personal Computer).

[0019] Next, we will describe the terminals and equipment of producers Aa and Ab, consumer Ca, intermediary Da, and applicant E.

[0020] (Terminals and equipment of producer Aa) Smartphone 2a can communicate data with smart meter 3a using short-range wireless technologies such as NFC (Near Field Communication) and Bluetooth (registered trademark). Smartphone 2a can also communicate data with intermediary server 5 via communication network 100.

[0021] The smart meter 3a can communicate data with the intermediary server 5 via the communication network 100. The smart meter 3a also measures the amount of electricity supplied by the power generation device 4a at regular intervals (for example, every 30 minutes), and further processes such as requesting the node 9 of the blockchain network 90 to generate asset information indicating the amount of electricity and other assets supplied and the owner.

[0022] The power generation device 4a is a device that generates electricity using sunlight.

[0023] (Terminals and equipment of producer Ab) Smartphone 2b can communicate data with smart meter 3b using near-field wireless technologies such as NFC and Bluetooth®. Smartphone 2b can also communicate data with intermediary server 5 via communication network 100.

[0024] The smart meter 3b can communicate data with the intermediary server 5 via the communication network 100. The smart meter 3b also measures the amount of electricity supplied by the power generation device 4b at regular intervals (for example, every 30 minutes), and further processes such as requesting the node 9 of the blockchain network 90 to generate asset information indicating the amount of electricity supplied and the owner.

[0025] The power generation device 4b is a device that generates electricity using petroleum.

[0026] (Consumer Ca's terminals and devices) Smartphone 2c can communicate data with smart meter 3c using short-range wireless technologies such as NFC and Bluetooth®. Smartphone 2c can also communicate data with intermediary server 5 via communication network 100.

[0027] The smart meter 3c can communicate data with the intermediary server 5 via the communication network 100. The smart meter 3c also measures the amount of electricity used by the electrical device 8 at regular intervals (for example, every 30 minutes) and transmits usage information, such as the amount of electricity used and the usage time, to the intermediary server 5 via the communication network 100. In this embodiment, the intermediary server 5 accesses the blockchain network 90 on behalf of the smart meter 3c, so the smart meter 3c does not need to access the blockchain network 90.

[0028] The electrical device 8 is a device that is driven using electricity provided by consumers Aa and Ab.

[0029] (Intermediary Da's terminal and equipment) The intermediary system 1000 consists of an intermediary server 5 and a certificate issuing server 6. The intermediary server 5 handles the mediation of asset-related transactions, such as the transfer of asset information between providers of assets like electricity and users of those assets. Therefore, the intermediary server 5 can communicate data with each smartphone 2 and each smart meter 3 via the communication network 100. The intermediary server 5 can also access node 9 of the blockchain network 90 and communicate data with node 9. The certificate issuing server 6 handles the mediation of transactions related to the issuance of certificates to prove the production methods of assets like electricity. Therefore, the certificate issuing server 6 can communicate data with the image processing device 7 via the communication network 100. The certificate issuing server 6 can also access node 9 of the blockchain network 90 and communicate data with node 9. Note that the intermediary system 1000 may also be a computer that integrates all or part of the functions of the intermediary server 5 and the certificate issuing server 6.

[0030] (Applicant E's terminal and equipment) The image processing device 7 is, for example, an image forming apparatus equipped with image processing functions and communication functions, such as an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral / Printer / Product), facsimile, scanner, or printer. The image processing device 7 may be a portable handheld printer or scanner, rather than a device installed in a specific location.

[0031] (supplement) Smartphones 2a and 2b are examples of communication terminals provided by the provider. Smartphone 2c is an example of a communication terminal used by the user. Communication terminals also include smartwatches, PCs, smart glasses, etc. Smart meter 3 is an example of a measurement terminal. Image processing device 7 is an example of an information processing device. Furthermore, the image processing device 7 may be configured as a system in which each function is distributed among multiple devices. For example, the functions of inputting and transmitting various types of information and receiving and outputting data transmitted from an external source may be implemented by different devices. Specifically, for example, the input and transmission of various types of information may be performed by a terminal device such as a smartphone, tablet, or PC, and the reception and output of data may be performed by the image processing device 7.

[0032] [Hardware configuration] Next, Figures 2 to 5 will be used to describe the hardware configuration of the smartphone 2, smart meter 3, intermediary server 5, certificate issuing server 6, image processing device 7, and node 9.

[0033] <Smartphone Hardware Configuration> Figure 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a smartphone. As shown in Figure 2, smartphone 2 includes a CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, EEPROM 204, CMOS sensor 205, image sensor I / F 206, accelerometer / compass sensor 207, media I / F 209, and GPS receiver 211.

[0034] Of these, the CPU 201 controls the overall operation of the smartphone 2. The ROM 202 stores programs used to drive the CPU 201, such as the CPU 201 and IPL. The RAM 203 is used as the work area for the CPU 201. The EEPROM 204 reads or writes various data, such as smartphone programs, according to the control of the CPU 201. The CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor 205 is a type of built-in imaging means that captures an image of a subject (mainly a self-portrait) according to the control of the CPU 201 to obtain image data. Note that it may be an imaging means such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor instead of a CMOS sensor. The image sensor I / F 206 is a circuit that controls the driving of the CMOS sensor 205. The acceleration / direction sensor 207 is a type of sensor such as an electronic magnetic compass, gyrocompass, or acceleration sensor that detects the Earth's magnetic field. The media I / F 209 controls the reading or writing (storage) of data to or from the recording medium 208, such as flash memory. The GPS receiver 211 receives GPS signals from GPS satellites.

[0035] Furthermore, the smartphone 2 is equipped with a long-range communication circuit 212, a CMOS sensor 213, an image sensor interface 214, a microphone 215, a speaker 216, an audio input / output interface 217, a display 218, an external device connection interface 219, a short-range communication circuit 220, an antenna 220a for the short-range communication circuit 220, and a touch panel 221.

[0036] Of these, the long-distance communication circuit 212 is a circuit that communicates with other devices via the communication network 100. The CMOS sensor 213 is a type of built-in imaging means that captures an image of a subject and obtains image data according to the control of the CPU 201. The image sensor interface 214 is a circuit that controls the driving of the CMOS sensor 213. The microphone 215 is a built-in circuit that converts sound into electrical signals. The speaker 216 is a built-in circuit that converts electrical signals into physical vibrations to produce sounds such as music and speech. The sound input / output interface 217 is a circuit that processes the input and output of sound signals between the microphone 215 and the speaker 216 according to the control of the CPU 201. The display 218 is a type of display means such as liquid crystal or organic EL (electroluminescence) that displays images of the subject and various icons. The external device connection interface 219 is an interface for connecting various external devices. The short-distance communication circuit 220 is a communication circuit such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The touch panel 221 is a type of input method that allows the user to operate the smartphone 2 by pressing the display 218.

[0037] Furthermore, smartphone 2 is equipped with a bus line 210. The bus line 210 is an address bus, data bus, etc., for electrically connecting each component, such as the CPU 201 shown in Figure 2.

[0038] <Smart meter hardware configuration> Figure 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of the smart meter. As shown in Figure 3, the smart meter 3 is equipped with a computer and includes a CPU 301, ROM 302, RAM 303, NVRAM 304, display 306, measurement sensor 307, switch 308, network I / F 309, keypad 311, touch panel 312, short-range communication circuit 220, and antenna 220a of the short-range communication circuit 220.

[0039] Of these components, the CPU 301 controls the overall operation of the smart meter 3. The ROM 302 stores programs used to drive the CPU 301, such as the IPL. The RAM 303 is used as the work area for the CPU 301. The NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM) 304 is a non-volatile memory that stores and reads various data such as programs. The display 306 displays various information such as cursors, menus, windows, characters, or images.

[0040] The measuring sensor 307 measures the power supplied or used. The switch 308 turns the circuit on (closes) or off (opens) to allow or stop electricity from flowing.

[0041] The network interface 309 is an interface for data communication using a communication network 100, such as the Internet, including the blockchain network 90. ​​The keypad 311 is a type of input device equipped with multiple keys for inputting or selecting characters, numbers, and various instructions. The short-range communication circuit 320 is a communication circuit that realizes short-range wireless technologies such as NFC and Bluetooth (registered trademark). The bus line 310 is an address bus, data bus, etc., for electrically connecting each component, such as the CPU 301 shown in Figure 3.

[0042] <Hardware configuration of the intermediary server> Figure 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of the intermediary server. Each hardware component of the intermediary server 5 is indicated by a code in the 500s. As shown in Figure 4, the intermediary server 5 is built by a computer and includes a CPU 501, ROM 502, RAM 503, HD (Hard Disk) 504, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) controller 505, display 506, external device connection I / F (Interface) 508, network I / F 509, bus line 510, keyboard 511, pointing device 512, DVD-RW (Digital Versatile Disk Rewritable) drive 514, and media I / F 516.

[0043] Of these, the CPU 501 controls the operation of the entire intermediary server 5. The ROM 502 stores programs used to drive the CPU 501, such as IPL. The RAM 503 is used as the work area for the CPU 501. The HD 504 stores various data such as programs. The HDD controller 505 controls the reading or writing of various data to the HD 504 according to the control of the CPU 501. The display 506 displays various information such as cursors, menus, windows, characters, or images. The external device connection I / F 508 is an interface for connecting various external devices. In this case, external devices include, for example, USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and printers. The network I / F 509 is an interface for data communication using the communication network 100. The bus line 510 is an address bus, data bus, etc., for electrically connecting each component such as the CPU 501 shown in Figure 4.

[0044] The keyboard 511 is a type of input means equipped with multiple keys for inputting characters, numbers, and various instructions. The pointing device 512 is a type of input means for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting processing targets, and moving the cursor. The DVD-RW drive 514 controls the reading or writing of various data to the DVD-RW 513, which is an example of a removable recording medium. Note that it is not limited to DVD-RW, but may also be DVD-R or Blu-ray® Disc. The media I / F 516 controls the reading or writing (storage) of data to the recording medium 515, such as flash memory.

[0045] <Hardware configuration of the certificate issuance server> Figure 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of the certificate issuance server. Each hardware component of the certificate issuance server 6 is indicated by a 600-series code in parentheses. As shown in Figure 4, the certificate issuance server 6 is built using a computer and has a configuration similar to that of the intermediary server 5, as shown in Figure 4; therefore, a description of each hardware component is omitted.

[0046] <Node Hardware Configuration> Figure 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of the node. Each hardware component of node 9 is indicated by a 900-series code in parentheses. As shown in Figure 4, node 9 is built by a computer and has a configuration similar to that of intermediary server 5, as shown in Figure 4; therefore, a description of each hardware component is omitted.

[0047] <Hardware configuration of the image processing device> Figure 5 is a hardware configuration diagram of the image processing device. As shown in Figure 5, the image processing device 7 includes a controller 710, a short-range communication unit 720, an engine control unit 730, an operation panel 740, and a network interface 750. Of these, the controller 710 has the main components of the computer: a CPU 701, system memory (MEM-P) 702, a northbridge (NB) 703, a southbridge (SB) 704, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 706, a local memory (MEM-C) 707 which is a storage area, an HDD controller 708, and an HD 709 which is a storage area. The NB 703 and the ASIC 706 are connected by an AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) bus 721.

[0048] Of these, the CPU 701 is a control unit that performs overall control of the image processing device 7. The NB703 is a bridge for connecting the CPU 701 with the MEM-P702, SB704 and AGP bus 721, and has a memory controller that controls reading and writing to the MEM-P702, as well as a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) master and an AGP target. The MEM-P702 consists of a ROM 702a, which is a memory for storing programs and data that realize each function of the controller 710, and a RAM 702b, which is used for expanding programs and data, and as drawing memory when printing to memory. The SB704 is a bridge for connecting the NB703 with the PCI bus 722 and peripheral devices. The ASIC 706 is an IC (Integrated Circuit) for image processing applications that has hardware elements for image processing, and plays the role of a bridge connecting the AGP bus 721, PCI bus 722, HDD controller 708 and MEM-C707, respectively. The ASIC706 consists of a PCI target and an AGP master, an arbiter (ARB) that forms the core of the ASIC706, a memory controller that controls the MEM-C707, multiple DMACs (Direct Memory Access Controllers) that perform image data rotation and other operations using hardware logic, and a PCI unit that performs data transfer between the scanner unit 731 and the printer unit 732 via the PCI bus 722. The ASIC706 may also be configured to have a USB interface or an IEEE 1394 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 1394) interface connected to it.

[0049] Furthermore, MEM-C707 is local memory used as a copy image buffer and code buffer. HD709 is storage for storing image data, font data used during printing, and forms. The HDD controller 708 controls the reading or writing of data to HD709 according to the control of CPU 701. The AGP bus 721 is a bus interface for graphics accelerator cards proposed to speed up graphics processing, and by directly accessing MEM-P702 with high throughput, the graphics accelerator card can be made faster. The near-field communication unit 720 is equipped with a near-field communication circuit 720a and an antenna 720b for the near-field communication circuit 720a. The near-field communication circuit 720a is a communication circuit for near-field wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth (registered trademark), millimeter-wave wireless communication, QR code (registered trademark), visible light, ambient sound, or ultrasound.

[0050] Furthermore, the engine control unit 730 is composed of a scanner unit 731 and a printer unit 732. The scanner unit 731 or the printer unit 732 includes an image processing section such as error diffusion and gamma conversion. The operation panel 740 includes a panel display unit 740a, such as a touch panel, which displays current settings and selection screens and accepts input from the operator, and an operation unit 740b, which consists of a numeric keypad that accepts setting values ​​for image formation conditions such as density settings and a start key that accepts copy start instructions. The panel display unit 740a is a type of display unit. The controller 710 controls the entire image processing device 7, for example, controlling drawing, communication, and input from the operation panel 740. The network I / F 750 is an interface for data communication using the communication network 100. The short-range communication circuit 720a and the network I / F 750 are electrically connected to the ASIC 706 via the PCI bus 722.

[0051] The above programs may be distributed as installable or executable files recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Examples of recording media include CD-R (Compact Disc Recordable), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), Blu-ray Disc, SD card, USB memory, etc. The recording media can also be provided domestically or internationally as a program product. For example, node 9 according to the embodiment implements the processing method according to the present invention by executing the program according to the present invention.

[0052] [Functional Configuration] Next, using Figures 6 through 8, the functional configuration of each terminal and device that make up the trading system 1 will be explained. Figure 6 is a functional block diagram of the smartphone and smart meter within the trading system.

[0053] <Smartphone 2a Functional Configuration> As shown in Figure 6, the smartphone 2a has a transmitting / receiving unit 21a, a receiving unit 22a, a display control unit 24a, a communication unit 28a, and a storage / reading unit 29a. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 2 operating according to instructions from the CPU 201 that follow a smartphone program deployed from the EEPROM 204 onto the RAM 203.

[0054] Furthermore, the smartphone 2a has a storage unit 2000a constructed from ROM 202, RAM 203, and EEPROM 204 as shown in Figure 2.

[0055] (Functional configuration of Smartphone 2a) The transmitting / receiving unit 21a of the smartphone 2a is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 201 on the long-distance communication circuit 212, and transmits and receives various data (or information) with other devices (for example, the intermediary server 5) via the communication network 100.

[0056] The reception unit 22a is primarily implemented by the processing performed by the CPU 201 on the touch panel 221, and accepts various selections or inputs from the user.

[0057] The display control unit 24a is primarily implemented by the CPU 201 and displays various images on the display 218. The display control unit 24a also includes a web browser function.

[0058] The communication unit 28a is primarily implemented by the processing performed by the CPU 201 on the short-range communication circuit 220, and communicates various data with the smart meter 3a's communication unit 38a, which will be described later. In the case of wired communication, data is communicated by connecting the smart meter 3a and the communication cable.

[0059] The memory / read unit 29a is mainly implemented by the CPU 201 and stores various data (or information) in the memory unit 2000a and reads various data (or information) from the memory unit 2000a.

[0060] <Smartphone 2c Functional Configuration> As shown in Figure 6, the smartphone 2c has a transmitting / receiving unit 21c, a receiving unit 22c, a display control unit 24c, a communication unit 28c, and a storage / reading unit 29c. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 2 operating according to instructions from the CPU 201 that follow a smartphone program deployed from the EEPROM 204 onto the RAM 203.

[0061] Furthermore, the smartphone 2c has a storage unit 2000c constructed from ROM 202, RAM 203, and EEPROM 204, as shown in Figure 2.

[0062] Note that the various parts of smartphone 2c (transmit / receive unit 21c, reception unit 22c, display control unit 24c, communication unit 28c, and storage / reading unit 29c) have the same functions as the various parts of smartphone 2a (transmit / receive unit 21a, reception unit 22a, display control unit 24a, communication unit 28a, and storage / reading unit 29a), so their descriptions are omitted. Also, smartphone 2b has the same parts as smartphone 2a as smartphone 2c, but it is omitted from Figure 5 as it will not be explained in the processing described later.

[0063] <Functional Configuration of Smart Meter 3a> As shown in Figure 6, the smart meter 3a includes a transmitting / receiving unit 31a, a measuring unit 33a, a display control unit 34a, a communication unit 38a, and a storage / reading unit 39a. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 3 operating according to instructions from the CPU 301 in accordance with a smart meter program deployed from NVRAM 304 onto RAM 303.

[0064] Furthermore, the smart meter 3a has a storage unit 3000a constructed from a ROM 302, RAM 303, and NVRAM 304, as shown in Figure 3.

[0065] (Functional configuration of smart meter 3a) The transmitting and receiving unit 31a of the smart meter 3a is mainly implemented by the processing of the CPU 301 with respect to the network I / F 309, and transmits and receives various data (or information) with other devices (e.g., the intermediary server 5) via the communication network 100.

[0066] The measurement unit 33a is mainly implemented by the processing of the measurement sensor 307 by the CPU 301, and measures the amount of electricity supplied by the power generation device 4a.

[0067] The display control unit 34a is mainly implemented by the processing of the CPU 301 and displays various images on the display 306.

[0068] The communication unit 38a is primarily implemented by the processing performed by the CPU 301 on the short-range communication circuit 320, and communicates various types of data with the communication unit 28a of the smartphone 2a. In the case of wired communication, data is communicated by connecting a communication cable to the smart meter 3a.

[0069] The memory / read unit 39a is mainly implemented by the CPU 301, and stores various data (or information) in the memory unit 3000a and reads various data (or information) from the memory unit 3000a.

[0070] <Functional Configuration of Smart Meter 3c> As shown in Figure 6, the smart meter 3c has a transmitting / receiving unit 31c, a measuring unit 33c, a display control unit 34c, a communication unit 38c, and a storage / reading unit 39c. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 3 operating according to instructions from the CPU 301 in accordance with a smart meter program deployed from NVRAM 304 onto RAM 303.

[0071] Furthermore, the smart meter 3a has a storage unit 3000c constructed from a ROM 302, RAM 303, and NVRAM 304, as shown in Figure 3.

[0072] Note that the components of smart meter 3c (transmitting / receiving unit 31c, measurement unit 33c, display control unit 34c, communication unit 38c, and storage / reading unit 39c) have the same functions as the components of smart meter 3a (transmitting / receiving unit 31a, measurement unit 33a, display control unit 34a, communication unit 38a, and storage / reading unit 39a), so their descriptions are omitted. Also, smart meter 3b has the same components as smart meter 3a, as well as smart meter 3c, but it is omitted from Figure 6 as it will not be explained in the processing described later.

[0073] <Functional Configuration of Intermediary Server 5> Figure 7 is a functional block diagram of the intermediary server, certificate issuing server, and nodes within the trading system. As shown in Figure 7, the intermediary server 5 has a transmitting / receiving unit 51, a determination unit 53, a display control unit 54, a judgment unit 55, and a storage / reading unit 59. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 4 being deployed from HD 504 onto RAM 503 and operated by instructions from CPU 501 according to a program for the intermediary server.

[0074] Furthermore, the intermediary server 5 has a storage unit 5000 constructed from the ROM 502 and HD 504 shown in Figure 4.

[0075] (User management table) Figure 9A is a conceptual diagram showing the user management table. The user management table is a table used by the intermediary Da to manage each user, such as electricity consumers. The storage unit 5000 has a user management DB 5001 constructed, which consists of the user management table shown in Figure 9A. In this user management table, user ID, user name, user address (or residence), and selectable provider ID are associated and managed.

[0076] Of these, the User ID is an example of user identification information used to identify the user of an asset, such as a consumer of electricity (Ca). The Selectable Provider ID is an example of provider identification information used to identify the producers and other providers that the user indicated by the User ID can select. For example, if the user's address is in Tokyo, the selectable providers are limited to those with addresses in Tokyo and the surrounding areas.

[0077] (Provider Management Table) Figure 9B is a conceptual diagram showing the provider management table. The provider management table is a table used by the intermediary Da to manage each provider, such as electricity producers. The storage unit 5000 has a provider management DB 5002 constructed, which consists of the provider management table shown in Figure 9B. In this provider management table, provider ID, provider name, type of production method for assets such as electricity by the provider, and available quantity are associated and managed.

[0078] Of these, the provider ID is an example of provider identification information used to identify asset providers such as electricity producers. The type of production method indicates the type of energy used in the production of the asset. As mentioned above, the type of production method includes methods that utilize solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, hydroelectric, petroleum, coal, liquefied natural gas, or nuclear power. The type of production method may also be indicated by a broad category such as renewable energy or fossil fuels. The amount that can be provided is the amount of assets that a provider such as a producer can provide over a certain period (or time), for example, the amount of electricity (kWh).

[0079] (Transaction details management table) Figure 10A is a conceptual diagram showing the transaction details management table. The transaction details management table is a table for managing the transaction details of assets set by users such as consumer Ca. The memory unit 5000 has a transaction details management DB 5003 constructed, which consists of the transaction details management table shown in Figure 10A. This transaction details management table manages transaction details information, specifically, the user ID, start date of use, end date of use, planned usage amount, renewable energy utilization rate, provider ID, provider name, and type of production method are managed in association with each other. Note that item names such as user ID that are the same as in Figures 9A and 9B have the same meaning.

[0080] Of these, the start date of use indicates the date on which the user, such as consumer Ca, begins using the asset, such as electricity. The end date of use indicates the date on which the user ends using the asset, such as electricity. The planned usage amount is the amount of asset that the user plans to use for a certain period (or a certain time), for example, the amount of electricity (kWh). The renewable energy utilization rate indicates the percentage (%) of the assets, such as electricity, used by the user, such as consumer Ca, that are produced using renewable energy such as solar power.

[0081] (Transaction history management table) Figure 10B is a conceptual diagram showing the transaction history management table. The transaction history management table is a table for managing the transaction history of transactions that the intermediary server 5 has mediated for assets acquired from providers such as producers, for each user. The memory unit 5000 has a transaction history management DB 5004 constructed, which consists of the transaction history management table shown in Figure 10B. This transaction history management table manages transaction history information, specifically the date and time of mediation, the transaction volume, the type of production method, and the total transaction volume for each production method are managed in association with each other. The type of (energy) resource used to produce the asset is, in other words, the "type of production method" that produces the asset using a predetermined type of resource. For example, if the asset is electricity, the "type of production method" indicates the "power generation method" such as solar power. In addition, while the use of solar power and oil is shown as various production methods here, it is not limited to these, and production methods using wind, coal, etc. may also be managed. Furthermore, a broad classification of production method types indicating renewable energy and fossil fuels may also be managed.

[0082] In the transaction history information, item names that are the same as those in Figures 9A and 9B, such as User ID, have the same meaning. The Intermediation Date and Time indicates the date and time when the intermediary server 5 intermediaried the ownership of an asset by assigning the ownership of the asset acquired from a provider such as a producer to a user such as a consumer Ca. The Transaction Volume indicates the transaction volume of the asset acquired by the intermediary server 5 from the provider and for which the transaction is intermediaried to the user, and is shown, for example, in terms of electricity (kWh). The Total Transaction Volume indicates the total amount of assets produced by a specific type of production method that were allocated to users such as consumer Ca over a certain period (or time), and is shown, for example, in terms of total electricity (kWh). The intermediary server 5 determines the type of production method of the assets to be assigned to users such as consumer Ca by referring to the Transaction History Management DB 5004. For example, if consumer Ca has set the percentage of electricity produced using renewable energy to 40, the intermediary server 5 refers to the Total Transaction Volume in the Transaction History Management DB 5004 to determine the type of production method of the assets to be provided to consumer Ca next. Note that the planned usage shown in Figure 10A (e.g., 20kWh) is the planned usage per hour. Therefore, if asset information is transferred every 30 minutes, the transaction volume will be half of the planned usage (e.g., 10kWh).

[0083] Furthermore, while solar energy and petroleum are shown as examples of various production methods, the system is not limited to these; production methods using wind, coal, etc., may also be managed. Additionally, a broad classification of production methods representing renewable energy and fossil fuels may be managed. Moreover, the types of production methods also include the types of asset production processes. The types of asset production processes indicate cases where the process leading to the production of an asset, such as electricity, differs. For example, even when using the same resource, the sun, this includes methods for producing electricity using sunlight and methods for producing electricity using solar heat. Another example of asset production process types is methods for producing electricity using turbines and methods for producing electricity without using turbines.

[0084] (Functional configuration of intermediary server 5) Next, the functional configuration of the intermediary server 5 will be explained in detail using Figure 7. The transmitting / receiving unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 501 to the network I / F 509, and transmits and receives various data (or information) with other terminals (for example, smartphones 2a, 2c) via the communication network 100. The transmitting / receiving unit 51 also plays the role of a receiving unit that receives transaction details from the smartphone 2c, which will be described later.

[0085] The decision unit 53, which is implemented by the CPU 501, determines asset information indicating ownership of assets to be transferred to the user (for which it mediates transactions). For example, the decision unit 53 determines asset information related to assets produced by a specific type of production method for which it mediates transactions to users such as consumer Ca, based on the "transaction history of assets produced by users using a predetermined type of production method" managed in the transaction history management DB 5004, and the "renewable energy utilization rate" pre-managed in the transaction content management DB 5003. Specifically, if consumer Ca has set the renewable energy utilization rate to 40%, the decision unit 53 refers to the total transaction volume in the transaction history management DB 5004 and decides to change the owner of the asset information related to assets produced by renewable energy from intermediary Da, which manages the intermediary server 5, to consumer Ca, so as to bring the utilization rate closer to 40%.

[0086] The display control unit 54 is primarily implemented by the CPU 501 and either displays various images on the display 506 or displays various images on the smartphone 2's display 218 via the communication network 100. In this case, the smartphone 2 displays the various images using the web browser function of the display control unit 24 of the smartphone 2. Note that the display control unit 24 is a collective term for display control units 24a and 24c.

[0087] The decision unit 55 is implemented by the CPU 501 and performs various decisions.

[0088] The memory / read unit 59 is mainly implemented by the CPU 501, and stores various data (or information) in the memory unit 5000 and reads various data (or information) from the memory unit 5000.

[0089] <Functional Configuration of Certificate Issuance Server 6> As shown in Figure 7, the certificate issuance server 6 includes a transmission / reception unit 61, an authentication unit 62, a generation unit 63, a certificate type management unit 64, a determination unit 65, and a storage / reading unit 69. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 4 being deployed from HD 604 onto RAM 603 and operated by instructions from CPU 601 according to a program for the certificate issuance server.

[0090] Furthermore, the certificate issuing server 6 has a storage unit 6000 constructed from the ROM 602 and HD 604 shown in Figure 4.

[0091] (Applicant management table) Figure 11A is a conceptual diagram showing the applicant management table. The applicant management table is a table used by intermediary Da to manage applicants for production method certificates. The memory unit 6000 has an applicant management DB 6001 constructed, which consists of the applicant management table shown in Figure 11A. In this applicant management table, the user name, applicant ID, password, and selectable user key are associated and managed.

[0092] Of these, the applicant ID and password are examples of applicant identification information used to identify the applicant applying for the issuance of a production method certificate. In the application management table, multiple applicant IDs are associated with a single user name. Here, the applicant is, for example, a user who is a member of a business that is a power producer or consumer and has the authority to apply for a production method certificate. Note that the configuration may also be such that only one applicant ID is associated with a single user name. Furthermore, the user key is key information that the applicant uses to issue a production method certificate using the blockchain network 90.

[0093] (Certificate Type Management Table) Figure 11B is a conceptual diagram showing the certificate type management table. The certificate type management table is a table for managing the format of certificates issued by national and local government agencies. The storage unit 6000 has a certificate type management DB 6002 constructed, which consists of the certificate type management table shown in Figure 11B. In this certificate type management table, the name of the issuing authority of the certificate and the format of the certificate issued by the issuing authority are associated and managed.

[0094] Intermediary Da shall be authorized in advance by the certificate issuing authority, such as a national government. Intermediary Da shall manage the certificate formats authorized by each issuing authority using a certificate type management table.

[0095] (Functional configuration of certificate issuance server 6) Next, the functional configuration of the certificate issuance server 6 will be explained in detail using Figure 7. The transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 601 to the network I / F 609, and transmits and receives various data (or information) with other devices or terminals (for example, the image processing device 7) via the communication network 100. The transmitting / receiving unit 61 also plays the role of a reception unit that receives certificate issuance requests from the image processing device 7, which will be described later.

[0096] The authentication unit 62 is implemented by the CPU 601 and performs authentication processing for applicant E requesting the issuance of a production method certificate based on the issuance request information received by the transmission / reception unit 61.

[0097] The generation unit 63 is implemented by the processing of the CPU 601 and generates a production method certificate to be provided to applicant E based on transaction information and asset information.

[0098] The certificate type management unit 64 is primarily implemented by the CPU 601 and manages the certificate format for each issuing authority that issues production method certificates.

[0099] The decision unit 65 is implemented by the processing of the CPU 601 and performs various decisions.

[0100] The memory / read unit 69 is mainly implemented by the CPU 601, and stores various data (or information) in the memory unit 6000 and reads various data (or information) from the memory unit 6000.

[0101] <Node 9 Functional Configuration> As shown in Figure 7, node 9 has a transmit / receive unit 91, a verification unit 92, a decision unit 93, a transaction processing unit 94, an asset processing unit 95, and a storage / reading unit 99. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 4 being deployed from HD 904 onto RAM 903 and operated by instructions from CPU 901 according to a program for the node.

[0102] Furthermore, node 9 has a storage unit 9000 constructed from ROM 902 and HD 904, as shown in Figure 4. Figure 7 illustrates a state where transaction information is linked together like a chain. Asset information generated based on the transaction information is also stored. Each transaction information and each asset information is held by each node.

[0103] (Functional configuration of each node 9) Next, the functional configuration of node 9 will be explained in detail using Figure 7. The transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 901 to the network I / F 909, and transmits and receives various data (or information) with other nodes of the blockchain network 90 within the communication network 100. The transmitting / receiving unit 91 also transmits and receives various data (or information) with the transmitting / receiving unit 31a of the smart meter 3a and the transmitting / receiving unit 51 of the intermediary server 5. Although the smart meter 3b is not shown in Figure 7, in reality, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 also transmits and receives various data (or information) with the smart meter 3b.

[0104] The verification unit 92 is implemented by the CPU 901 and verifies the certificate and the provided information. Certificate verification is the process of determining whether the certificate belongs to a person who has been pre-registered on node 9. Provided information verification is the process of determining whether all of the predetermined format and content (for example, whether the provider is entered, whether the time of provision is entered, etc.) has been entered.

[0105] The decision unit 93 is implemented by the CPU 901 and performs various decisions.

[0106] The transaction processing unit 94 is implemented by the CPU 901 and performs processing such as generating transaction information used for generating asset information and storing it in the storage unit 9000.

[0107] The asset processing unit 95 is implemented by the CPU 901 and performs processing such as generating asset information and storing it in the storage unit 9000 according to the transaction information.

[0108] The memory / read unit 99 is mainly implemented by the CPU 901, and stores various data (or information) in the memory unit 9000 and reads various data (or information) from the memory unit 9000.

[0109] <Functional configuration of the image processing device 7> Figure 8 is a functional block diagram of the image processing unit within the trading system. As shown in Figure 8, the image processing unit 7 includes a transmitting / receiving unit 71, a receiving unit 72, a display control unit 73, a determination unit 74, a printing processing unit 75, a generation unit 77, and a storage / reading unit 79. Each of these units is a function or means realized by any of the components shown in Figure 5 operating according to instructions from the CPU 701 in accordance with a program for the image processing unit deployed from HD 709 onto RAM 702b.

[0110] Furthermore, the image processing device 7 has a storage unit 7000 constructed from the ROM 702a and HD 709 shown in Figure 5.

[0111] (Functional configuration of the image processing device 7) Next, the functional configuration of the image processing device 7 will be described in detail using Figure 8. The transmitting and receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7 is mainly realized by the processing of the CPU 701 to the network I / F 909, and transmits and receives various data (or information) with the certificate issuing server 6 via the communication network 100.

[0112] The reception unit 72 is primarily implemented by the processing performed by the CPU 701 on the operation panel 740, and accepts various selections or inputs from the user.

[0113] The display control unit 73 is mainly implemented by the processing of the CPU 701 and displays various images on the operation panel 740. The display control unit 73, for example, uses a web browser function to display web pages created with HTML (HyperText Markup Language) or the like on the operation panel 740.

[0114] The decision unit 74 is implemented by the processing of the CPU 701 and performs various decisions.

[0115] The printing processing unit 75 is mainly implemented by the CPU 701 through processing of the engine control unit 730 and performs the printing process of image data. The generation unit 77 is implemented by the CPU 701 and generates issuance request information indicating a request for the issuance of a production method certificate for an asset.

[0116] The memory / read unit 79 is mainly implemented by the CPU 701, and stores various data (or information) in the memory unit 7000 and reads various data (or information) from the memory unit 7000.

[0117] [Processing or operation] Next, the processing or operation of this embodiment will be described using Figures 12 to 24.

[0118] <Intermediary registration process> First, we will explain the intermediary registration process using Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 is a sequence diagram showing the intermediary registration process. Figure 13A shows an example of the intermediary registration screen, and Figure 13B shows an example of the intermediary registration completion screen. Here, we will explain the case where producer Aa registers intermediary Da from among multiple intermediaries. Note that producer Aa has already entered into a contract with intermediary Da, and as described later, producer Aa can select intermediary Da. In addition, an application for intermediary registration is pre-installed on smartphone 2a. This application manages the intermediary ID, intermediary name, and IP address of the intermediary server owned by the intermediary, which are associated with each intermediary to identify them.

[0119] As shown in Figure 12, in the smartphone 2a, the display control unit 24a displays the intermediary registration screen shown in Figure 13A on the display 218 (S21). This intermediary registration screen displays a pull-down menu showing the names of various intermediaries for selecting a specific intermediary. At the bottom of the intermediary registration screen, there are "OK" buttons to confirm the intermediary name selected in the pull-down menu, and "CANCEL" buttons to cancel the selection.

[0120] Then, when producer Aa selects a desired intermediary name from several intermediary names and presses the "OK" button, the reception unit 22a accepts the intermediary selection (S22). Here, we will explain the case where intermediary Da is selected.

[0121] After the reception unit 22a accepts the selection, the communication unit 28a transmits intermediary information to the communication unit 38a of the smart meter 3a via short-range wireless communication (S23). This intermediary information includes an intermediary ID to identify the selected intermediary, and the IP address of the intermediary server owned by the selected intermediary. As a result, the communication unit 38a of the smart meter 3a receives the intermediary information.

[0122] Next, in the smart meter 3a, the memory / reading unit 39a registers the intermediary information in the memory unit 3000a. Then, the communication unit 38a transmits registration completion information to the smartphone 2a indicating that registration is complete. As a result, the communication unit 28a of the smartphone 2a receives the registration completion information.

[0123] Next, on the smartphone 2a, the display control unit 24a displays a registration completion screen on the display 218, as shown in Figure 13B. This registration completion screen displays a comment indicating that the intermediary's registration is complete. This registration completion screen also displays an "OK" button, which is pressed to close the screen. When producer Aa presses this button, the registration completion screen is closed.

[0124] The registration process for the intermediary is now complete.

[0125] <Transaction details registration process> Next, we will explain the process of registering asset transaction details using Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 is a sequence diagram showing the process of registering asset transaction details. Figure 15A shows an example of the transaction details registration screen before input and selection, and Figure 15B shows an example of the transaction details registration screen after input and selection. Here, we will explain the case in which consumer Ca registers the transaction details of electricity as an asset to the intermediary server 5 using smartphone 2c.

[0126] As shown in Figure 14, the transmitting / receiving unit 21c of the smartphone 2c sends a request to the intermediary server 5 via the communication network 100 to display the transaction details registration screen (S41). This display request includes a user ID to identify the consumer Ca, who is the requesting user. The transmitting / receiving unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 receives the display request. Note that the user ID is an example of user identification information. User identification information also includes My Number, which is a number designated by local governments etc. as an individual identification number in Japan, and telephone numbers of individuals or companies.

[0127] Next, in the intermediary server 5, the storage / reading unit 59 searches the user management DB 5001 (see Figure 9A) using the user ID received in step S41 as a search key, and reads all corresponding selectable provider IDs (S42). Furthermore, the storage / reading unit 59 searches the provider management DB 5002 using each provider ID read in step S42 as a check key, and reads the corresponding information (provider name, type of production method information, available quantity) (S43). Then, the display control unit 54 uses the information read in step S43 to create a transaction details registration screen as shown in Figure 15A (S44). As a result, the display control unit 24c uses its web browser function to display the transaction details registration screen shown in Figure 15A, created by the intermediary server 5, on the smartphone 2c's display 218 (S45). This transaction details registration screen displays various input fields (the usage period of the asset (in this case, electricity), the asset's end date, the planned amount of asset usage, and the renewable energy utilization rate), as well as multiple checkboxes for selecting the asset provider. At the bottom of the transaction details registration screen, there is an "OK" button to confirm the transaction details entered in the input fields and checked in the checkboxes, and a "CANCEL" button to cancel the transaction without confirming it.

[0128] Here, consumer Ca operates the touch panel of smartphone 2c to enter the desired values ​​in each input field, and then checks the checkbox for the desired provider and presses the "OK" button, at which point the reception unit 22c accepts the input and selection of the transaction details (S46). The renewable energy utilization rate indicates the percentage of renewable energy used in the production of the electricity that consumer Ca wishes to obtain.

[0129] In this scenario, consumer Ca selects producer Aa, who uses solar energy to produce electricity. However, since electricity is not available at night, producer Ab, who uses oil to produce electricity, is selected as an alternative energy source. The renewable energy utilization rate is set at 40%.

[0130] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 21c of the smartphone 2c transmits transaction details information indicating the input and selected content to the intermediary server 5 via the communication network 100 (S47). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 accepts the transaction details by receiving the transaction details information.

[0131] Next, the intermediary server 5 manages the transaction details by storing the transaction details information received in step S47 together with the user ID received in step S41 in the transaction details management DB 5003 (see Figure 10A) using the storage / reading unit 59 (S48).

[0132] The transaction details registration process is now complete.

[0133] <Process to set the asset owner as an intermediary> Next, we will explain the process of setting the owner of an asset provided by a provider to the intermediary, using Figures 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a sequence diagram showing the process of setting the owner of an asset provided by a provider to the intermediary. Figure 17 is a conceptual diagram of transaction information and asset information. Here, we will explain the case where producer Aa's smart meter 3a sets the owner of the asset to the intermediary for node 9a.

[0134] As shown in Figure 16, the measurement unit 33a measures the power supplied from the power generator 4a to the power transmission and distribution network 10 (S61). The transmitting / receiving unit 31a of the smart meter 3a then sends a request for asset information generation to node 9a of the blockchain network 90 once every predetermined time (for example, every 30 minutes) (S62). This request includes an electronic certificate proving that producer Aa is the provider, and the provided information, so that producer Aa's smartphone 2a can access the blockchain network 90. ​​The provided information includes the provider, the date and time of provision, the (tradable) quantity, the type of production method, and the owner of the asset. As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9a receives the request for asset information generation (S62). This provided information is the information used to generate the transaction information shown in Figure 17. The content of this provided information is predetermined by a blockchain smart contract (automation of contract).

[0135] Next, the verification unit 92 of node 9 verifies the certificate and provided information received in step S62 (S63). The following describes the case where the verification result is satisfactory.

[0136] Next, the transaction processing unit 94 uses the provided information received in step S62 to generate transaction information as shown in Figure 17 and stores it in the storage unit 9000 (S64). In this case, the transaction processing unit 94 assigns a transaction ID and sets the transaction type. The transaction information includes the transaction ID, transaction type information, and provided information (information on the provider, provision date and time, (tradable) quantity, production method, and owner). Of these, the transaction ID is an example of unique identification information for identifying transaction information. The transaction type is information indicating the processing content for the asset information. In Figure 17, since the transaction type is the generation of asset information, the asset processing unit 95 generates the asset information. The provider is information indicating the provider of the asset. The provision date and time is information indicating the date and time the asset was provided by the provider. The (tradable) quantity is information indicating the amount of electricity, etc., that the provider can trade within a predetermined period. The production method type is information indicating the type of production method shown in Figure 10B. The owner is information indicating the owner of the asset, such as ownership of the asset.

[0137] Next, the asset processing unit 95 generates the asset information shown in Figure 17 according to the transaction information shown in Figure 17 and stores it in the storage unit 9000 (S65). In this case, the asset processing unit 95 sets the provision information (provider, provision date and time, (tradable) quantity, production method, and owner information) within the transaction information, as well as the expiration date of the transaction and the transaction status of the asset information. The expiration date of the transaction is set, for example, one month after the provision date. The transaction status is information indicating whether or not the asset information has been traded (assigned) to the user by the intermediary server 5. In Figure 17, it is set to "Not yet," indicating that the asset information has not been traded (assigned) to the user, that is, the intermediary has not yet provided the asset information to the user.

[0138] Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 distributes the transaction information generated in step S64 as a block to multiple other nodes of the blockchain network 90 (S66). Each of the other nodes then verifies the block, adds it to the chain of blocks already stored at that node, and, according to the transaction information, generates asset information in the same manner as in step S65 and stores it in their respective storage units. Note that multiple transaction information entries may be stored in a single block.

[0139] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 sends a response to the request in step S62 to the smart meter 3a (S67). This response indicates whether the generation of asset information was successful or unsuccessful. As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 31a of the smart meter 3a receives the response.

[0140] Next, in the smart meter 3a, the memory / reading unit 39a stores the response content in the memory unit 3000a.

[0141] As a result, asset information indicating details such as the asset owner being set as intermediary Da is managed on the blockchain network 90, and the process of providing asset information from the provider to the intermediary is completed.

[0142] <Process of providing asset information from the intermediary to the user> Next, Figures 18 and 19 will be used to explain the process of setting the owner of the asset mediated by the intermediary to the user. Figure 18 is a sequence diagram showing the process of setting the owner of the asset mediated by the intermediary to the user. Figure 19 is a conceptual diagram of transaction information and asset information when electricity usage is traded.

[0143] First, the transmitting / receiving unit 31c of consumer Ca's smart meter 3c transmits usage information indicating the usage status of electricity as an asset via the communication network 100 once every predetermined time (for example, every 30 minutes) (S81). This usage information includes information indicating the usage status of electricity as an asset, a user ID to identify consumer Ca as the user, the amount of electricity used as an asset, and the usage time of electricity as an asset. As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 receives the usage information. Then, the transmitting / receiving unit 51 sends a request to node 9 of the blockchain network 90 for all asset information owned by intermediary Da, who manages the intermediary server 5 (S82). This request includes an electronic certificate proving the identity of intermediary Da as an intermediary, and information indicating intermediary Da as the owner, so that the intermediary server 5 managed by intermediary Da can access the blockchain network 90. ​​As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 receives the request for all asset information.

[0144] Next, at node 9, the verification unit 92 verifies the certificate received in step S82 (S83). Certificate verification is the process of determining whether the received certificate is a certificate of a server that has been pre-registered at node 9. The following describes the case where the verification result is satisfactory.

[0145] The memory / read unit 99 of node 9 reads all asset information managed by the owner as intermediary Da who manages the intermediary server 5 (S84). Then, the transmit / receive unit 91 transmits all the asset information read in step S84 to the intermediary server 5 (S85). As a result, the transmit / receive unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 receives all the asset information. This allows the intermediary server 5 to receive asset information that can be assigned to users and whose owner is intermediary Da.

[0146] Next, the storage and reading unit 59 of the intermediary server 5 searches the transaction details management DB 5003 using the user ID received in step S81 as a search key, and reads the corresponding transaction details information (S86). Furthermore, the storage and reading unit 59 searches the transaction history management DB 5004 using the user ID received in step S81 as a search key, and reads the corresponding total transaction amounts (S87). In the case of Figure 10B, the total transaction amounts read are 20 (kWh) as the total transaction amount of electricity produced by solar power, and 160 (kWh) as the total transaction amount of electricity produced by oil.

[0147] Next, the decision unit 53 determines the type of production method for the asset related to the asset information to be transferred to consumer Ca as a user, based on the transaction details information read in step S86 and the total transaction volume read in step S87 (S88). For example, if the type of production method is indicated as "solar" and "petroleum" in the transaction details information, the latest total transaction volume is "20" for solar and "160" for petroleum. Therefore, the decision unit 53 determines the type of production method to be "solar" in order to bring it closer to the renewable energy rate of "40".

[0148] Then, the storage and reading unit 59 adds the contents processed in step S88 to the transaction history management DB 5004 by storing them (S89). As a result, for example, the storage and reading unit 59 adds a record to the transaction history management DB 5004 (see Figure 10B) that shows the mediation date and time "2020.1.1 9:00-9:30", transaction quantity "10", production method type "solar power", and total transaction quantity due to solar power "30".

[0149] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 sends a request to change asset information to the node 9 of the blockchain network 90 (S90). This request includes an asset ID to identify the asset information relating to a specific asset produced by a specific type of production method determined in step S88, from among the asset information received in step S85. The request in step S90 also includes information on the new owner and the amount of the asset used. The information indicating the new owner may be the user ID received in step S81, or it may be the owner's name. If there are multiple assets produced by a specific type of production method determined in step 88, the transmitting / receiving unit 51 sends a request to change the specific asset information relating to the asset whose expiration date is closest to the current date and time from among these multiple assets.

[0150] Next, in node 9, the verification unit 92 verifies each piece of information (asset ID, owner, (usage) amount) received in step S90 (S91). This verification is a process to determine whether each piece of information is in a predetermined format and content. The following describes the case where the verification results are satisfactory.

[0151] Next, the transaction processing unit 94 of node 9 generates second transaction information and adds a block containing the second transaction information to the chain of blocks containing the first transaction stored in the storage unit 9000, as shown in Figure 19 (S92). Then, the asset processing unit 95 modifies the contents of the first asset information according to the second transaction information (S93).

[0152] Here, we will explain in detail the processes in steps S92 and S93 using Figure 19. The first transaction information and first asset information on the left side of Figure 19 are the same as the transaction information and asset information in Figure 17, respectively. Here, we will explain the case where, after the smart meter 3a sets the asset owner to intermediary Da (generation of the first asset information based on the first transaction information), the intermediary server 5 changes the asset owner to consumer Ca (modification of the first asset information based on the second transaction information), and intermediary Da then mediates the transaction of asset information (asset ownership).

[0153] In step S92, the transaction processing unit 94 generates second transaction information as shown in Figure 19. This second transaction information includes a unique transaction ID and the transaction type, which is "asset information transaction". The second transaction information also includes the date and time the asset information transaction was mediated, the new owner after the mediated transaction, the asset ID to identify the asset information being transferred (transactioned), and the amount of asset (in this case, electricity) used that was received in step S90.

[0154] Then, in step S93, the asset processing unit 95 makes changes to the first asset information as shown in Figure 19. The asset processing unit 95 changes the "(tradable) quantity" to "(used) quantity" in the first asset information and changes the owner from "intermediary Da" to "consumer Ca". Furthermore, since all of the tradable quantity has been used, no further asset allocation is possible, so the asset processing unit 95 changes the transaction status in the first asset information from "not yet" to "completed". Asset information whose transaction status has been changed to "completed" in this way loses its value as ownership and will be excluded from future transactions. Therefore, the transaction processing unit 94 does not include asset information whose transaction status is set to "completed" as a transaction type for "transaction of asset information". In other words, asset information that has been excluded from transactions will not be transferred again.

[0155] As described above, if the entire tradable quantity of an asset is used, the asset information is changed. Returning to Figure 18, the transmit / receive unit 91 of node 9 sends a response to the request in step S90 to the intermediary server 5 (S94). This response indicates whether the processing of the request in step S90 was successful or unsuccessful. As a result, the transmit / receive unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 receives the response. The transmit / receive unit 51 of the intermediary server 5 sends a response to the transmission in step S81 to the smart meter 3c (S95). As a result, the transmit / receive unit 31c of the smart meter 3c receives the response from the intermediary server 5. The content of this response indicates the content of the response received in step S94 (success or failure) and is managed and displayed by the smart meter 3c. This allows consumer Ca to understand the transaction result of the asset.

[0156] <Processing for issuing production method certificates> Next, we will explain the process of issuing a certificate of production method for an asset using Figures 20 and 22. Figures 20 and 22 are sequence diagrams showing the process of issuing a certificate of production method for an asset. Applicant E requests intermediary Da to issue a certificate of production method to prove that the type of electricity used is renewable energy such as solar power. This will be explained below.

[0157] As shown in Figure 20, when applicant E operates the operation panel 740 of the image processing device 7, the display control unit 73 displays the certificate issuance screen shown in Figure 21A on the operation panel 740 (S201). This certificate issuance screen displays input fields (applicant ID, password, asset usage period date (in this case, electricity), asset usage end date), as well as selection buttons for selecting the asset production method (in this case, power generation type) and the type of certificate to be issued. At the bottom of the certificate issuance screen, there is an "OK" button to confirm the transaction details selected by the input fields and selection buttons, and a "CANCEL" button to cancel the transaction without confirming the transaction details.

[0158] Here, when applicant E operates the control panel 740 of the image processing device 7 to enter the desired content into each input field, and further selects the desired content using the selection buttons and presses the "OK" button, the reception unit 72 accepts the input and selection of transaction details (S202).

[0159] Here, as shown in Figure 21B, applicant E enters their user ID (applicant ID) and password, and enters the transaction period information as January 1, 2020 to January 31, 2020. Applicant E also selects "solar power generation" as the power generation type to prove the production method and "organization A" as the issuing body for the production method certificate. Then, the generation unit 77 generates issuance request information indicating that an issuance of a production method certificate for the asset is requested based on the various information received in step S202.

[0160] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 transmits issuance request information to the certificate issuance server 6 via the communication network 100, indicating that it requests the issuance of a production method certificate for an asset (S203). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 receives the issuance request information transmitted from the image processing device 7. This issuance request information includes the content entered and selected in step S202. Specifically, the issuance request information includes an applicant ID and password to identify applicant E, transaction period information indicating the period for which the asset will be traded, the asset's production method (power generation type), and the certificate type. That is, applicant E requests the issuance of a production method certificate for a specific transaction period from January 1, 2020 to January 31, 2020.

[0161] Next, the authentication unit 62 of the certificate issuance server 6 performs authentication processing on applicant E who sent the issuance request information (S204). Specifically, the authentication unit 62 searches the applicant management table (see Figure 11A) using the applicant ID and password contained in the issuance request information received via the transmission / reception unit 61 as search keys. The authentication unit 62 also reads the username and user key associated with the applicant ID and password if the combination of applicant ID and password contained in the issuance request information is managed in the applicant management table. If the combination of applicant ID and password contained in the issuance request information is managed in the applicant management table, the processing from step S205 onwards is executed.

[0162] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 sends issuance request information to node 9 of the blockchain network 90 indicating a request for the issuance of a production method certificate (S205). This issuance request information includes an electronic certificate proving the identity of intermediary Da as the intermediary, the user key and user name (in this case, consumer Ca) read in step S204, transaction period information, and power generation type. The intermediary's certificate may be the same as the certificate of the intermediary server 5, as it is the server certificate assigned to intermediary Da. The transaction period information and power generation type are the transaction period information and power generation type received in step S203. As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 receives the issuance request information sent from the certificate issuance server 6.

[0163] Next, the verification unit 92 of node 9 verifies the certificate and user key received in step S205 (S206). Certificate verification is the process of determining whether the received certificate is a server certificate that has been pre-registered in node 9. User key verification is the process of determining whether the received user key is the key information of a user (applicant) that has been pre-registered in node 9. Next, we will explain the case where there are no problems with the verification results.

[0164] Next, the storage / reading unit 99 reads out transaction information and asset information in which consumer Ca is set as the owner within a predetermined transaction period indicated by the transaction period information received in step S205 (S207). In this case, the storage / reading unit 99 reads out specific transaction information in which the mediation date and time included within the above transaction period is indicated and the new owner is indicated as consumer Ca. The storage / reading unit 99 also reads out asset information based on the asset ID indicated in the specific transaction information that it has read out.

[0165] In Figure 22, the determination unit 93 of node 9 determines the issuance status of the certificate of the asset indicated in the asset information read in step S207 (step S208). Specifically, it determines whether the issuance status indicated in the asset information read in step S207 is "not issued" or "issued". If the determination unit 93 determines that the issuance status is "not issued", node 9 executes the process from step S209a onwards. On the other hand, if the determination unit 93 determines that the issuance status is "issued", node 9 executes the process from step S209b onwards. First, we will explain the case where the issuance status is determined to be "not issued".

[0166] The transaction processing unit 94 of node 9 generates the nth transaction information and adds the block containing the nth transaction information to the chain of blocks containing the first transaction stored in the storage unit 9000, as shown in Figure 23 (S209a). Then, the asset processing unit 95 modifies the contents of the first asset information according to the nth transaction information (S210a).

[0167] Here, we will explain in detail the processing in steps S209a and S210a using Figure 23. The first transaction information and first asset information on the left side of Figure 23 are the same as the transaction information and asset information in Figures 17 and 19, respectively.

[0168] In step S209a, the transaction processing unit 94 generates the nth transaction information as shown in Figure 23. This nth transaction information includes a unique transaction ID and "Certificate Issuance" as the transaction type. The nth transaction information also includes the issuance date and time when the production method certificate was issued, the amount of asset (in this case, electricity) issued as a certificate, the type of production method for the asset for which the certificate is issued, the asset ID to identify the asset information to which the certificate is issued, and the provider and owner of the asset.

[0169] Then, in step S210a, the asset processing unit 95 modifies the first asset information as shown in Figure 23. Since the asset processing unit 95 has issued a production method certificate for the asset, it updates the issuance status of the production method certificate in the first asset information from "Not yet issued" to "Completed (Issued)".

[0170] Thus, when a production method certificate is issued, the issuance status shown in the asset information is changed. Furthermore, if the amount of assets to be issued as certificates is insufficient to be used in the usage amount shown in one asset information, Node 9 and the transaction processing unit 94 will perform a transaction using multiple asset information. In this case, the asset processing unit 95 will change (update) not only the first asset information but also multiple asset information.

[0171] Returning to Figure 22, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 sends an update notification to the certificate issuance server 6 indicating that the issuance status has been updated (S211a). This update notification includes the transaction information generated in step S209a (the nth transaction information) and the asset information changed in step S210a (the first asset information). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 receives the update notification sent from node 9.

[0172] Next, the generation unit 63 of the certificate issuance server 6 generates a production method certificate (S212a) based on the transaction information and asset information contained in the update notification received by the transmission / reception unit 61. Specifically, the generation unit 63 searches the certificate type management table (see Figure 11B) using the certificate type contained in the transaction request information received in step 203 as the search key. The generation unit 63 also reads the certificate format associated with the institution name, which is the certificate type contained in the transaction request information. Then, the generation unit 63 generates the production method certificate by describing the contents shown in the transaction information and asset information received in step S211a to the read format.

[0173] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 transmits the certificate data relating to the production method certificate generated by the generation unit 63 to the image processing device 7, which sent the issuance request information in step S203 (S213a). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7 receives the certificate data transmitted from the certificate issuance server 6.

[0174] Then, the image processing device 7 outputs the certificate data received in step S212 (S214a). Specifically, when applicant E operates the operation panel 740 of the image processing device 7, the image processing device 7 and the printing processing unit 75 perform the printing process of the certificate data. Figure 24 shows an example of a printed production method certificate. The production method certificate shown in Figure 24 is a power certificate that proves the method of producing electricity, which is an example of an asset used by the applicant (user). A power certificate is sometimes called a green power certificate. The production method certificate shows the amount of electricity generated corresponding to the amount issued as a certificate, the generation period corresponding to the transaction period information on which the certificate was issued, the power generation method which is the method of producing the asset (in this case, electricity) issued as a certificate, the date of issuance of the certificate, and the issuing authority of the certificate. The production method certificate also shows a transaction identification image to confirm that the contents of the certificate are identical to the transaction history (transaction information) of the blockchain network 90.

[0175] The transaction identification image is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark) as shown in Figure 24. This transaction identification image contains a transaction ID for matching with the transaction history of the blockchain network 90. ​​For example, a business that has received an application from applicant E using a production method certificate can verify the authenticity of the certificate by reading the transaction identification image shown on the production method certificate.

[0176] This transaction identification image is generated by the generation unit 63 of the certificate issuing server 6 during the processing of step S212a. The generation unit 63 generates the transaction identification image using the transaction information ID (transaction ID) contained in the update notification received in step S211a. The transaction identification image is not limited to a QR code; for example, it may be a one-dimensional code such as a barcode, a two-dimensional code such as DataMatrix (DataCode), MaxiCode or PDF417, or any information (or image) that can be read by a reader such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). Furthermore, the transaction identification image may be an image on which the transaction ID is directly written so that it can be identified by visual inspection.

[0177] In step S214a, the image processing device 7 was described as outputting certificate data through printing by the printing processing device 75. However, the image processing device 7 may also be configured to output certificate data by displaying a display image related to the certificate data on the operation panel 740 using the display control device 73. In this case, when outputting certificate data by displaying it, the image processing device 7 may be a terminal or device that does not have a printing function. In this case, the image processing device 7 may be, for example, a smartphone, tablet terminal, PC, smartwatch, or smart glasses equipped with a display unit. Furthermore, if applicant E is in the same environment as consumer Ca, consumer Ca's smartphone 2c may be configured to have the functions of the image processing device 7.

[0178] With the above steps completed, the mediation process by intermediary Da for the issuance of the production method certificate is finished. As a result, applicant E can use the issued production method certificate to enhance their company's image or to apply for government subsidies for the use of renewable energy.

[0179] On the other hand, let's explain the case where the issuance status is determined to be "issued" in step S208 of Figure 22. The transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 sends an issuance notification to the certificate issuance server 6 indicating that the production method certificate for the asset corresponding to the issuance request information received in step S203 has been issued (S209b). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 receives the issuance notification sent from node 9. Then, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 sends the issuance notification received in step S209b to the image processing device 7, which sent the issuance request information in step S203 (S210b). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7 receives the issuance notification sent from the certificate issuance server 6.

[0180] Therefore, if the issuance status shown in the asset information is "Completed," Node 9 will not issue a certificate for the asset whose issuance status is "Completed," even if it receives issuance request information. This prevents Node 9 from issuing duplicate production method certificates for the same asset.

[0181] [Main effects of the embodiment] As described above, according to this embodiment, the transaction system 1 performs the procedure for issuing a production method certificate using the image processing device 7 by the applicant E via the certificate issuance server 6 of the intermediary Da. When the certificate issuance server 6 receives a certificate issuance request from the image processing device 7, it sends the certificate issuance request to the node 9 that constitutes the blockchain network 90. ​​If the certificate issuance status of the asset to which the certificate is to be issued is not yet issued, the node 9 updates the issuance status to issued. Then, when the issuance status is updated to issued by the node 9, the certificate issuance server 6 generates certificate data and provides it to the image processing device 7. On the other hand, if the issuance status of the asset to which the certificate is to be issued is already issued, the node 9 sends an issuance notification to the image processing device 7 via the certificate issuance server 6. As a result, the transaction system 1 can prevent duplicate issuance of certificates because, once a certificate is issued at node 9, the issuance status shown in the asset information is updated.

[0182] Furthermore, the certificate issuance server 6 of intermediary Da, which is authorized by the certificate issuing authority, provides applicant E with a production method certificate generated using transaction information and asset information obtained from the blockchain network 90, thereby reducing the burden on applicant E, such as the exchange of documents with the issuing authority until the certificate is issued.

[0183] Furthermore, applicant E can easily obtain the production method certificates required for various applications by displaying or printing the production method certificate obtained from the certificate issuance server 6 on the image processing device 7. In addition, since the production method certificate is accompanied by a transaction identification image that identifies the transaction history on the blockchain network 90, businesses that accept applications using the production method certificate can verify the legitimacy of the transaction.

[0184] Furthermore, since the quality of assets such as electricity provided to users is constant, even if the type of asset production method is unknown, Node 9 of the blockchain network 90 can reliably prove the type of production method by managing asset information that indicates the type of asset production method and the asset owner, as well as the transaction information used to generate this asset information.

[0185] Furthermore, in order to ensure stable use of electricity, it is necessary to adjust the amount of electricity consumed and produced in real time (simultaneous and equal supply). However, because blockchain is a distributed ledger, it takes a certain amount of time to verify the consistency of each ledger information via the network, making it unsuitable for applications such as immediate trading of assets that require real time. In contrast, in this embodiment, the intermediary server 5 sends a change request to the blockchain network 90 to change the owner indicated in the asset information managed on the blockchain network 90 from the original owner to the user (consumer Ca), not at the time when consumer Ca starts using the asset such as electricity, but after consumer Ca has used the asset. This makes it possible to manage asset ownership using blockchain even for applications such as immediate trading of assets that require real time. Moreover, because the intermediary server 5 changes the asset information managed on the blockchain network 90 on behalf of the provider (producer Aa, etc.) and user (consumer Ca, etc.), the provider (producer Aa, etc.) and user (consumer Ca, etc.) can trade electricity without worrying about changes to the asset information.

[0186] Furthermore, by changing the ownership of specific types of asset production methods, the intermediary server 5 can also be used for purposes such as the immediate trading of assets such as electricity produced using renewable energy sources like solar power.

[0187] [Modification of the embodiment] Here, a modified example of this embodiment will be described using Figures 25 to 30. First, in the transaction system 1A according to Modified Example 1, when the mediation process for the production method certificate is performed by the mediation system 1000, node 9 performs the certificate generation process. This will be described below. Note that components and functions identical to those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0188] Figure 25 is a functional block diagram of the intermediary server, certificate issuing server, and node in the transaction system according to Modification 1. Node 9A of the transaction system 1A shown in Figure 25 includes a generation unit 96 and a certificate type management unit 97 in addition to the configuration of node 9 described in the above embodiment. Furthermore, the storage unit 9000 of node 9A has a certificate type management DB 9001 constructed, which is composed of a certificate type management table as shown in Figure 11B.

[0189] The generation unit 96 is mainly implemented by the processing of the CPU 901 and generates a production method certificate to be provided to applicant E based on transaction information and asset information.

[0190] The certificate type management unit 97 is primarily implemented by the CPU 901 and manages the certificate format for each issuing authority that issues production method certificates.

[0191] Figures 26 and 27 are sequence diagrams showing the issuance process of an asset production method certificate in the trading system according to Modification 1. Note that the processes in steps S301 to 307 are the same as the processes in steps S201 to S207 shown in Figures 20 and 22, so their explanation is omitted. Here, in step S305, the issuance request information transmitted from the transmission / reception unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 includes the certificate type received in step S303, in addition to the information transmitted in step S205.

[0192] In Figure 27, the determination unit 93 of node 9A determines the issuance status of the certificate of the asset indicated in the asset information read in step 307 (step S308), similar to the process in step S208 in Figure 22. If the determination unit 93 determines that the issuance status is "not issued", node 9A executes the process from step S309a onwards. On the other hand, if the determination unit 93 determines that the issuance status is "issued", node 9A executes the process from step S309b onwards. First, we will explain the case where the issuance status is determined to be "not issued".

[0193] The transaction processing unit 94 of node 9A generates the nth transaction information, similar to the process in step S209a of Figure 22, and adds the block containing the nth transaction information to the chain of blocks containing the first transaction stored in the storage unit 9000 (S309a). Then, the asset processing unit 95 modifies the contents of the first asset information according to the nth transaction information, similar to the process in step S210a of Figure 22 (S310a).

[0194] The generation unit 96 of node 9A generates a production method certificate (S311a) based on the transaction information generated in step S309a and the asset information modified in step S310a. Specifically, the generation unit 96 searches the certificate type management table (see Figure 11B) using the certificate type included in the issuance request information received in step 305 as the search key. The generation unit 96 also reads the certificate format associated with the organization name, which is the certificate type included in the issuance request information. Then, the generation unit 96 generates the production method certificate by describing the contents shown in the transaction information generated in step S309a and the asset information modified in step S310a to the read format.

[0195] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9A transmits certificate data relating to the production method certificate generated by the generation unit 96 to the certificate issuance server 6 (S312a). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 receives the certificate data transmitted from node 9A. Then, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 transmits the certificate data transmitted from node 9A to the image processing device 7, which sent the issuance request information in step S303 (S313a). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7 receives the certificate data transmitted from the certificate issuance server 6.

[0196] Then, the image processing device 7 outputs the certificate data received in step S313a (S313). The method for outputting the certificate data in the image processing device 7 is the same as described in step S214a above.

[0197] On the other hand, the case where the issuance status is determined to be "issued" in step S308 of Figure 27 will be explained. The transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9A sends an issuance notification to the certificate issuance server 6 indicating that the production method certificate for the asset corresponding to the issuance request information received in step S305 has been issued (S309b). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 receives the issuance notification sent from node 9A. Then, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 sends the issuance notification received in step S309b to the image processing device 7, which sent the issuance request information in step S303 (S310b). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7 receives the issuance notification sent from the certificate issuance server 6.

[0198] As described above, in the transaction system 1A according to Modification 1, in the process of issuing asset production method certificates via the certificate issuing server 6, the node 9A constituting the blockchain network 9 performs the production method certificate generation process. In this case, the certificate issuing server 6 only performs the authentication process of the applicant E and the data mediation process between the image processing device 7 and node 9A, thus reducing the processing burden on the mediator Da side.

[0199] Next, the configuration of the transaction system 1B according to Modified Example 2 will be described using Figures 28 to 30. In addition to the configuration of the transaction system 1A of Modified Example 1, the transaction system 1B according to Modified Example 2 includes an image processing device 7A that provides authentication and communication functions with the blockchain network 90. ​​The image processing device 7A has a dedicated application installed and exchanges information with the blockchain network 90. ​​This will be explained below. Components and functions identical to those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0200] Figure 28 is a functional block diagram of the image processing device in the transaction system according to Modification 2. The image processing device 7A of the transaction system 1B shown in Figure 25 includes an authentication unit 76 in addition to the configuration of the image processing device 7 described in the above embodiment. Furthermore, the storage unit 7000 of the image processing device 7A has an applicant management DB 7001 constructed, which is composed of an applicant management table as shown in Figure 11A.

[0201] The authentication unit 76 is implemented by the processing of the CPU 701 and performs authentication processing for applicant E who requests the issuance of a production method certificate, based on the applicant identification information received by the reception unit 72.

[0202] Figures 29 and 30 are sequence diagrams showing the process of issuing asset production method certificates in the trading system according to Modification 2. Note that the processes of steps S401 to 402 are the same as the processes of steps S201 to S202 shown in Figure 20, so their explanation is omitted.

[0203] The authentication unit 76 of the image processing device 7A performs authentication processing for applicant E (S403). Specifically, the authentication unit 76 searches the applicant management table (see Figure 11A) using the applicant ID and password entered in step S402 as search keys. If the combination of the entered applicant ID and password is managed in the applicant management table, the authentication unit 76 reads the user name and user key associated with the applicant ID and password. If the combination of the entered applicant ID and password is managed in the applicant management table, the processing from step S404 onwards is executed.

[0204] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 transmits issuance request information to node 9A via the communication network 100, indicating that it requests the issuance of a certificate of the asset's production method (S404). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9A receives the issuance request information transmitted from the image processing device 7. This issuance request information includes the user key and user name (in this case, consumer Ca) read in step S403, transaction period information indicating the period for which the asset will be traded, entered in step S402, and the asset's production method (power generation type) and certificate type selected in step S402.

[0205] Next, the verification unit 92 of node 9A verifies the user key received in step S404 (S405). User key verification is the process of determining whether the received user key is the key information of a user (applicant) that has been pre-registered in node 9. Next, we will explain the case where there are no problems with the verification result. The storage and reading unit 99 reads out the transaction information and asset information in which consumer Ca is set as the owner within a predetermined transaction period indicated by the transaction period information received in step S405, similar to the process in step S207 of Figure 20 (S406).

[0206] In Figure 30, the determination unit 93 of node 9A determines the issuance status of the certificate of the asset indicated in the asset information read in step 406 (step S407), similar to the process in step S208 of Figure 22. If the determination unit 93 determines that the issuance status is "not issued", node 9A executes the process from step S408a onwards. On the other hand, if the determination unit 93 determines that the issuance status is "issued", node 9A executes the process from step S408b onwards. First, we will explain the case where the issuance status is determined to be "not issued".

[0207] The transaction processing unit 94 of node 9A generates the nth transaction information, similar to the process in step S209a of Figure 22, and adds the block containing the nth transaction information to the chain of blocks containing the first transaction stored in the storage unit 9000 (S408a). Then, the asset processing unit 95 modifies the contents of the first asset information according to the nth transaction information, similar to the process in step S210a of Figure 22 (S409a).

[0208] The generation unit 96 of node 9A generates a production method certificate (S410a) based on the transaction information generated in step S408a and the asset information modified in step S409a. Specifically, the generation unit 96 searches the certificate type management table (see Figure 11B) using the certificate type included in the issuance request information received in step 404 as the search key. The generation unit 96 also reads the certificate format associated with the organization name, which is the certificate type included in the issuance request information. Then, the generation unit 96 generates the production method certificate by describing the contents shown in the transaction information generated in step S408a and the asset information modified in step S409a to the read format.

[0209] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9A transmits certificate data relating to the production method certificate generated by the generation unit 96 to the image processing device 7A, which sent the issuance request information in step S404 (S411a). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7A receives the certificate data transmitted from node 9A.

[0210] Then, the image processing device 7A outputs the certificate data received in step S410 (S412a). The method for outputting the certificate data in the image processing device 7A is the same as described in step S213 above.

[0211] On the other hand, the case in step S407 of Figure 30 where the issuance status is determined to be "issued" will be explained. The transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9A sends an issuance notification to the image processing device 7A, which sent the issuance request information in step S404, indicating that the production method certificate for the asset corresponding to the issuance request information received in step S404 has been issued (S408b). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7A receives the issuance notification sent from node 9A.

[0212] As described above, the transaction system 1B according to modified example 2 allows applicant E to refer to the transaction history of the blockchain network 90 without requiring any other system or device other than the image processing device 7A when outputting a production method certificate using the image processing device 7A.

[0213] Next, the configuration of the trading system 1C according to Modified Example 3 will be described using Figures 31 to 33. The trading system 1C according to Modified Example 3 differs from the embodiment described above in the applicant's operation when issuing a certificate of asset production method. This will be explained below. Components and functions identical to those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0214] Figures 31 and 32 are sequence diagrams showing the process of issuing a certificate of production method for an asset in the trading system according to Modification 3. Applicant E requests intermediary Da to issue a certificate of production method to prove that the type of electricity used is renewable energy such as solar power.

[0215] As shown in Figure 31, when applicant E operates the operation panel 740 of the image processing device 7, the display control unit 73 displays the applicant information input screen shown in Figure 33A on the operation panel 740 (S501). This applicant input screen displays input fields for entering the applicant ID and password, an "OK" button to confirm the input, and a "CANCEL" button to cancel without confirming the input.

[0216] Here, when applicant E operates the control panel 740 of the image processing device 7 to enter the desired content into each input field and presses the "OK" button, the reception unit 72 accepts the input of applicant information (S502).

[0217] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 transmits the applicant information entered in step S502 to the certificate issuance server 6 via the communication network 100 (S503). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 receives the applicant information transmitted from the image processing device 7.

[0218] Next, the authentication unit 62 of the certificate issuance server 6 performs authentication processing for applicant E who sent the applicant information (S504). Specifically, the authentication unit 62 searches the applicant management table (see Figure 11A) using the applicant ID and password contained in the applicant information received via the transmission / reception unit 61 as search keys. The authentication unit 62 also reads the username and user key associated with the applicant ID and password if the combination of applicant ID and password contained in the applicant information is managed in the applicant management table. If the combination of applicant ID and password contained in the applicant information is managed in the applicant management table, the processing from step S505 onwards is executed.

[0219] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 sends a data acquisition request to node 9 of the blockchain network 90 indicating that it is requesting transaction data to be provided to applicant E (S505). This data acquisition request includes an electronic certificate proving that intermediary Da is the real person, the user key read in step S504, and the user name (in this case, consumer Ca). The intermediary's certificate may be the same as the certificate of the intermediary server 5, as it is the server certificate assigned to intermediary Da. As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 receives the data acquisition request sent from the certificate issuing server 6.

[0220] Next, the verification unit 92 of node 9 verifies the certificate and user key received in step S505 (S506). Certificate verification is the process of determining whether the received certificate is a server certificate that has been pre-registered in node 9. User key verification is the process of determining whether the received user key is the key information of a user (applicant) that has been pre-registered in node 9. Next, we will explain the case where there are no problems with the verification results.

[0221] Next, the storage / reading unit 99 reads transaction data indicating the transaction details of consumer Ca based on the transaction information and asset information in which consumer Ca, as indicated in the data acquisition request received in step S505, is set as the owner (S507). In this case, the storage / reading unit 99 reads specific transaction information in which consumer Ca is indicated as the owner. The storage / reading unit 99 also reads asset information based on the asset ID indicated in the specific transaction information that it has read. Then, the storage / reading unit 99 reads the information indicating the date and time of provision, usage amount, type of production method, and issuance status indicated in the asset information that it has read as transaction data.

[0222] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 transmits the transaction data read in step S507 to the certificate issuance server 6 (S508). This transaction data includes the user name (consumer Ca) received in step S505, transaction period information based on the provision date and time read in step S507, transaction volume based on usage read in step S507, and information on the type of production method (in this case, power generation type) and issuance status read in step S507. The transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 also transmits (transfers) the transaction data sent from node 9 to the image processing device 7 (S509). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 of the image processing device 7 receives the transaction data sent from node 9.

[0223] In Figure 32, the display control unit 73 displays the certificate issuance screen shown in Figure 33B on the operation panel 740 (S510). This certificate issuance screen displays a list of transaction data showing the transaction details of consumer Ca received in step S509. Each transaction data displayed in the list includes information on the start and end dates of the asset (in this case, electricity), the asset's production method (in this case, power generation type), and the transaction volume. Each transaction data displayed in the list is displayed as selectable on the operation panel 740. The example shown in Figure 33B shows the state where the top transaction data in the list is selected. In addition, if the received issuance status indicates "Completed (Issued)", the transaction data in the list is displayed in grayscale, for example, so that applicant E cannot select the corresponding transaction data. The example shown in Figure 33B shows the state where the certificate corresponding to the third transaction data from the top in the list has been issued. Transaction data that is "Completed (Issued)" may not be displayed on the list. Additionally, at the bottom of the certificate issuance screen, there are selection buttons to choose the type of certificate to issue, a list of transaction data, an "OK" button to confirm the selected transaction details, and a "CANCEL" button to cancel the transaction without confirming the details.

[0224] Here, when applicant E operates the operation panel 740 of the image processing device 7, selects the desired content using the list and selection buttons, and presses the "OK" button, the reception unit 72 accepts the selection of transaction data (S511). Then, the generation unit 77 generates issuance request information indicating that the applicant requests the issuance of a certificate of production method for the asset, based on the various information received in step S511.

[0225] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 71 transmits issuance request information to the certificate issuance server 6 via the communication network 100, indicating that it requests the issuance of a certificate of the asset's production method (S512). As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 of the certificate issuance server 6 receives the issuance request information transmitted from the image processing device 7. This issuance request information includes the content selected in step S511. Specifically, the issuance request information includes applicant information (applicant ID and password) to identify applicant E, the user name (consumer Ca) received in step S509, and the information and certificate type shown in the transaction data selected in step S511. The information shown in the transaction data is, for example, transaction period information indicating the period for which the asset is traded and the asset's production method (power generation type).

[0226] Next, the transmitting / receiving unit 61 transmits issuance request information to node 9 of the blockchain network 90, indicating that it is requesting the issuance of a production method certificate (S513). This issuance request information includes the user name (consumer Ca), transaction period information, and power generation type. As a result, the transmitting / receiving unit 91 of node 9 receives the issuance request information transmitted from the certificate issuance server 6.

[0227] Next, the storage / reading unit 99 reads out transaction information and asset information in which consumer Ca is set as the owner within a predetermined transaction period indicated by the transaction period information received in step S513 (S514). In this case, the storage / reading unit 99 reads out specific transaction information in which the mediation date and time included within the above transaction period is indicated and the new owner is indicated as consumer Ca. The storage / reading unit 99 also reads out asset information based on the asset ID indicated in the specific transaction information that it has read out.

[0228] The transaction processing unit 94 generates the nth transaction information and adds the block containing the nth transaction information to the chain of blocks containing the first transaction stored in the storage unit 9000, as shown in Figure 23 (S515). Then, the asset processing unit 95 modifies the contents of the first asset information according to the nth transaction information (S516). The processing in steps S515 and S517 is the same as the processing in steps S209a and S210a in Figure 22. Also, the processing in steps S517 to S520 is the same as the processing in steps 211a to S214a in Figure 22, so the explanation is omitted.

[0229] As described above, the transaction system 1C according to Modification 3 allows applicant E to display a list of transaction data for which a certificate can be issued on the image processing device 7, and to allow applicant E to select the desired transaction details. Therefore, compared to the above embodiment, the burden on applicant E in issuing a certificate can be reduced.

[0230] In step S508, node 9 may be configured not to send transaction data with an issuance status of "Completed (Issued)". Also, in the certificate issuance screen displayed in step S510, transaction data with an issuance status of "Completed (Issued)" may be displayed in a selectable state. If transaction data with an issuance status of "Completed (Issued)" is selected in step S511, node 9, having received the issuance request information, determines the certificate issuance status in the same way as in step S208 in Figure 22, and sends an issuance notification to the image processing device 7 via the certificate issuance server 6, in the same way as in steps S209b and S210b in Figure 22.

[0231] Furthermore, although Modification 3 was described as a modification of the process shown in Figures 20 and 22, it is also applicable to the process shown in Figures 26 and 27 (Modification 1), or Figures 29 and 30 (Modification 2).

[0232] 〔summary〕 As described above, the nodes according to one embodiment of the present invention are nodes 9,9A in the blockchain network 90, which store asset information indicating the type of asset production method and the issuance status of certificates to prove the asset production method. Nodes 9,9A also receive issuance request information from an intermediary system 1000 that mediates the issuance of certificates to image processing devices 7,7A (an example of an information processing device), indicating a request for the issuance of a certificate for a predetermined asset. If the issuance status of the asset corresponding to the received issuance request information is not yet issued, nodes 9,9A update the issuance status shown in the stored asset information to issued. If the issuance status of the asset corresponding to the received issuance request information is already issued, nodes 9,9A send an issuance notification to the image processing devices 7,7A indicating that the certificate has been issued. This allows nodes 9,9A to prevent duplicate issuance when issuing certificates for asset production methods.

[0233] Furthermore, in nodes 9 and 9A according to one embodiment of the present invention, asset information indicates the owner of the asset, and nodes 9 and 9A update the issuance status of asset information indicating the owner corresponding to the identification information (e.g., user name) shown in the issuance request information. Nodes 9 and 9A also update the issuance status of asset information indicating the asset corresponding to the production method shown in the issuance request information. As a result, nodes 9 and 9A can reliably verify the type of production method by managing asset information indicating the type of production method, the issuance status of certificates to prove the production method, and the owner of the asset.

[0234] Furthermore, the transaction system 1,1A according to one embodiment of the present invention includes nodes 9,9A in the blockchain network 90 and an image processing device 7 (an example of an information processing device). The image processing device 7 transmits issuance request information indicating a request for the issuance of a certificate to the intermediary system 1000, receives certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from the intermediary system 1000, and outputs the received certificate data. As a result, the transaction system 1,1A can easily allow applicant E to obtain the production method certificate necessary for various applications by displaying or printing the production method certificate obtained from the certificate issuance server 6 (intermediary system 1000) on the image processing device 7.

[0235] Furthermore, the transaction system 1B according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a node 9A in the blockchain network 90 and an image processing device 7A (an example of an information processing device). The image processing device 7A transmits issuance request information indicating a request for the issuance of a certificate to node 9A, receives certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from node 9A, and outputs the received certificate data. As a result, when applicant E outputs a production method certificate using the image processing device 7A, the transaction system 1B can refer to the transaction history of the blockchain network 90 without requiring any other system or device other than the image processing device 7A.

[0236] Furthermore, in the transaction system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the certificate data includes a transaction identification image for identifying the transaction for which the certificate related to the certificate data was issued. As a result, the transaction system 1 can refer to the transaction history of the blockchain network 90 using the transaction identification image contained in the issued production method certificate, thereby verifying the legitimacy of the transaction.

[0237] 〔others〕 In the above embodiment, the asset information includes information indicating the owner of the asset, but in some cases, it may be possible to omit information indicating the owner. For example, if the user is also a producer and is self-sufficient, there is no need to transfer the asset to another person (another company), so it is sufficient to prove the type of production method.

[0238] Furthermore, while electricity was shown as an example of an asset in the above embodiment, it is not limited to this, and includes both physically existing (or actually existing) assets and assets that do not physically (or actually exist), as described below.

[0239] Examples of physically existing (or actually existing) assets include food products such as grains, vegetables, fruits, meat, seafood, or processed foods. If the asset is grains, vegetables, or fruits, the asset information includes supplementary information such as whether or not pesticides were used, or information indicating the producer or place of production. If the asset is meat, the asset information includes supplementary information such as whether or not the animal was raised using genetically modified crops, or information indicating the producer or place of production. If the asset is seafood such as fish or shellfish, the asset information includes supplementary information such as whether or not it is wild-caught or farmed, or information indicating the producer (fisherman) or production area (fishing area). If the asset is processed food, the asset information includes supplementary information such as information indicating allergens, whether or not it was processed using genetically modified crops, or information indicating the processor or location of the processing plant.

[0240] Furthermore, assets that exist physically (or in reality) include real estate such as land and buildings, and movable property such as goods or the quantity of goods. When the asset is real estate, the asset information is incidental information such as ownership. When the asset is movable property, the asset information is incidental information such as ownership.

[0241] On the other hand, assets that do not physically (or actually exist) include tokens (cryptocurrencies) or the quantity of tokens, carbon emission rights, intellectual property rights and other rights, and contracts. If the asset is a token, the asset information is ancillary information such as ownership. If the asset is a carbon emission right, the asset information is ancillary information such as ownership. If the asset is an intellectual property right or other right, the asset information is ancillary information such as the owner of the right, the transferee of the right, and the licensee. If the asset is a contract, the asset information is ancillary information such as the contract terms and the status of performance. Note that treaties, agreements, promises, memoranda, memos, etc., are treated similarly to contracts.

[0242] Furthermore, in cases such as deferred payment processing, assets include not only electricity, but also gas, tap water, telephone services, etc. In the case of gas, tap water, and telephone services, the asset information is supplementary information such as ownership.

[0243] Each component, such as CPU201, 301, 501, 601, 701, 901, etc., may be single or multiple. Furthermore, each function of the embodiment described above can be realized by one or more processing circuits. Here, "processing circuit" in this embodiment includes processors programmed to execute each function by software, such as processors implemented by electronic circuits, as well as devices such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), DSPs (digital signal processors), FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays), SOCs (System on a chip), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), and conventional circuit modules designed to execute each of the functions described above.

[0244] In addition, the various tables of the embodiments described above may be generated by the learning effect of machine learning, and the data of each related item may be classified by machine learning, so that the tables may not be used. Here, machine learning is a technology for enabling a computer to acquire learning ability like a human. That is, the computer autonomously generates an algorithm necessary for judgment such as data identification from learning data taken in advance, and applies this to new data to make a prediction. The learning method for machine learning may be any one of supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, reinforcement learning, and deep learning. Further, a learning method combining these learning methods may also be used, and any learning method for machine learning may be used.

[0245] So far, the node, transaction system, processing method, program, and blockchain network according to an embodiment of the present invention have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be changed within the scope that those skilled in the art can conceive, such as addition, change, or deletion of other embodiments. As long as the effects of the present invention can be achieved in any aspect, it is included in the scope of the present invention.

Explanation of Signs

[0246] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C Transaction system 2 Smartphone (an example of a communication terminal) 3 Smart meter (an example of a measurement terminal) 4 Power generation device 5 Mediation server 6 Certificate management server 7, 7A Image processing device (an example of an information processing device) 8 Electric device 9, 9A Node 10 Transmission and distribution network 61 Transmission and reception unit 63 Generation unit 71 Transmission and reception unit (an example of transmission means, an example of reception means) 72 Reception unit (an example of reception means) 73 Display control unit (an example of output means, an example of display control means) 75 Printing control unit (an example of output means) 77 Generation unit (an example of generation means) 90 Blockchain network 91 Transmission / reception unit 93 Judgment unit 94 Transaction processing unit 95 Asset processing unit 96 Generation unit 100 Communication network 1000 Mediation system 9000 Storage unit

Claims

1. A transmission means that transmits issuance request information to an intermediary system that mediates the issuance of the said certificate, indicating the type of asset production method and requesting the issuance of a certificate to prove the said production method, A receiving means for receiving certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from the intermediary system, An output means for outputting the received certificate data, An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the receiving means receives the certificate data from the intermediary system if the issuance status of the asset corresponding to the transmitted issuance request information is not yet issued, and receives an issuance notification from the intermediary system indicating that the certificate has been issued if the issuance status of the asset corresponding to the transmitted issuance request information is already issued.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the receiving means receives certificate data generated by the intermediary system based on the issuance status of the certificate stored in the nodes of the blockchain network from the intermediary system.

4. The information processing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the receiving means receives certificate data generated by a node based on the certificate issuance status stored in the node in the blockchain network from the intermediary system.

5. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further, A reception means for receiving input of applicant information that identifies the applicant applying for the issuance of the aforementioned certificate, The system comprises a generation means for generating the issuance request information including the applicant information including the applicant information for which the input has been received, The transmission means is an information processing device that transmits the generated issuance request information to the intermediary system.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, further, The system includes a display control means that displays a list of transaction data that the applicant can issue, The receiving means accepts the selection of the transaction data from the displayed list, The transmission means is an information processing device that generates the issuance request information indicating that the selection is requesting the issuance of the certificate corresponding to the transaction data for which the selection has been accepted.

7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the certificate data includes a transaction identification image for identifying the transaction for which the certificate relating to the certificate data was issued.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the output means outputs the certificate data by performing a printing process.

9. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the output means displays a display image showing the certificate data.

10. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the asset is electricity, and the type of production method is a production method utilizing renewable energy, a production method utilizing fossil fuels, or a production method utilizing nuclear power.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the renewable energy is solar energy, solar thermal energy, wind power, biomass, geothermal energy, hydropower, or heat from the atmosphere.

12. A transmission means that transmits issuance request information to an intermediary system that mediates the issuance of the said certificate, indicating the type of asset production method and requesting the issuance of a certificate to prove the said production method, A receiving means for receiving certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from the intermediary system, An output means for outputting the received certificate data, A system characterized by having the following features.

13. A processing method executed by an information processing device, A transmission step of sending issuance request information to an intermediary system that mediates the issuance of the said certificate to the said information processing device, which indicates the type of production method of the asset and indicates a request for the issuance of a certificate to prove the said production method, A receiving step of receiving certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from the intermediary system, An output step that outputs the received certificate data, A method for executing this process.

14. A program to be executed by an information processing device, A transmission step of sending issuance request information to an intermediary system that mediates the issuance of the said certificate to the said information processing device, which indicates the type of production method of the asset and indicates a request for the issuance of a certificate to prove the said production method, A receiving step of receiving certificate data generated based on the transmitted issuance request information from the intermediary system, An output step that outputs the received certificate data, A program that executes the command.

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