Asynchronous entry / exit system, asynchronous entry / exit method, asynchronous entry / exit program, entry / exit control device, entry / exit control method, entry / exit control program, notification server, notification method, and notification program

Abstract

This enables appropriate control of user entry and exit on public transportation systems. [Solution] The entry / exit control device 100 controls the user's entry based on the identification information of the medium obtained when the medium is read by the reader. After the user enters, the entry / exit control device 100 obtains the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value, as a temporary balance of monetary value to be used to control the user's exit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an asynchronous entry / exit system, an asynchronous entry / exit method, an asynchronous entry / exit program, an entry / exit control device, an entry / exit control method, an entry / exit control program, a notification server, a notification method, and a notification program.

Background Art

[0002] When entering a railway or bus by passing through a ticket gate, based on RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology that uses short-range wireless communication such as electromagnetic fields or radio waves from an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip attached to a medium such as an electronic ticket (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as "medium"), ID (Identification) information is read, and an entry process or an exit process of a user (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as "user") who uses a bus, a train, etc. is performed.

[0003] In the conventional user entry / exit management technology using the above RFID technology, ID information and the like obtained from the medium may be managed by an on-premises server. However, in recent years, since the above medium is increasingly used for shopping and the like other than riding on railways and buses, a shift from the operation based on the conventional on-premises server to the operation based on a cloud-type server such as a public cloud server is being considered.

[0004] However, regarding the shift to the operation based on the cloud-type server, there are problems in the processing speed and the like in the entry / exit control as compared with the operation based on the conventional on-premises server. Therefore, as a user entry / exit control technology using a cloud-type server, there is a known prior art in which the ID of a ticket is read, information necessary for the reception process among the information related to the ticket is acquired in advance, and the reception process is performed based on the read ID of the ticket (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-005969 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the conventional technologies described above have challenges in appropriately controlling the entry and exit of users in transportation systems. For example, conventional technologies control user entry and exit based on high-speed processing that uses only the information necessary for entry and exit. However, conventional technologies are only intended for entry and exit management using pre-purchased admission tickets, and it is difficult to achieve appropriate entry and exit management in railways, buses, etc., where fare settlement and other transactions occur. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the objective, the asynchronous entry / exit system of the present invention is characterized by comprising: an entry control unit that controls the entry of a user based on identification information of a medium obtained when a reading device reads the medium; and an acquisition unit that, after the user has entered, acquires the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value as a provisional balance of monetary value used to control the exit of the user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The present invention has the effect of enabling appropriate control of users entering and exiting transportation facilities. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall structure of the entry / exit control process according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of an asynchronous entry / exit system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3]Figure 3 is a table diagram showing an example of media information according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates an example of entry / exit control processing according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of entry / exit control processing according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of entry / exit control processing according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the entry / exit procedure according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of an entry / exit control device according to a modified example. [Figure 9] Figure 9 illustrates an example of entry / exit control processing related to a modified example. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the configuration of an asynchronous entry / exit system according to the second modified example. [Figure 11] Figure 11 illustrates an example of entry / exit control processing related to the second modified example. [Figure 12] Figure 12 illustrates an example of implementation based on the second modified example. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the entry / exit procedure related to the second modified example. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of a computer that implements an entry / exit control device according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of an asynchronous entry / exit system, an asynchronous entry / exit method, an asynchronous entry / exit program, an entry / exit control device, an entry / exit control method, an entry / exit control program, a notification server, a notification method, and a notification program according to the present application will be described in detail. Note that the present invention is not limited by the present embodiments. In the description of the drawings, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0011] <Introduction> (Background) When entering a railway station or a bus, ID information is read from an IC chip attached to a medium such as an electronic ticket based on RFID technology, and the user's entry or exit process is performed. In the usage scenarios of ticket gates in Japan, in order to cope with the rush during commuting hours or school hours, high-speed processing of about 200 msec is required from the reading of ID information to the completion of permission for entry or exit.

[0012] Therefore, conventionally, when performing user entry / exit control, high-speed processing has been realized by managing ID information and the like obtained from the medium based on an on-premises server. However, in recent years, since the medium is increasingly used for shopping and other activities other than riding trains and buses, a shift from the conventional operation using an on-premises server to an operation using a cloud-type server has been considered.

[0013] When using a cloud-type server, considering the arrival time, processing time, etc. from the reading of ID information from the medium to the cloud-type server, there are currently problems in stably realizing high-speed processing. Therefore, a reference technique for efficiently controlling user entry / exit using a cloud-type server is known (for example, refer to Reference 1 described below).

[0014] (Reference 1) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-005969

[0015] For example, in the technology described in Reference 1, after performing the ticket-issuing procedure for the purchased ticket on a cloud-type server, the ticket is displayed on the user's terminal device or the like and read by the ticket gate. As described above, by implementing the ticket-issuing procedure on a cloud-type server and only exchanging the information necessary for entry and exit between the ticket gate and the cloud-type server, the processing speed can be increased.

[0016] However, in the conventional reference technology, there are problems in appropriately controlling the entry and exit of users in transportation facilities. For example, although the reference technology can achieve high-speed processing, since the target is a "pre-purchased ticket", it is not assumed to control the entry and exit of users based on media such as a terminal device or an IC card charged with a monetary value, which is a virtual currency used for paying fares or paying at the time of purchasing goods or services in advance.

[0017] (Overall Outline of Processing by Asynchronous Entry / Exit System 1) Therefore, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 uses the remaining balance of the monetary value obtained asynchronously after the user enters, from the monetary value management system that manages the remaining balance of the monetary value used for paying fares and the like, as a provisional remaining balance of the monetary value to execute control regarding the user's exit, thereby realizing high-speed processing of the processing related to the user's entry and exit.

[0018] In this embodiment, "asynchronous" means any timing except the timing of the user's entry. Also, in this embodiment, the "remaining balance of the monetary value" is the remaining balance of the monetary value recorded on a medium such as an IC card commuter ticket and used for paying fares or purchasing goods or services by the user, and may hereinafter be referred to as the "SF (Stored Fare) remaining balance".

[0019] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the "monetary value management system" is an information processing device such as a server that stores and manages the above-mentioned SF balance for each user. Also, the "provisional monetary value balance" is a provisional SF balance that is asynchronously obtained from the above-mentioned monetary value management system after the user enters the system, and may be referred to as the "provisional SF balance" hereafter.

[0020] Here, we will explain the overall structure of the processing performed by the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall structure of the entry / exit control processing according to the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 1 shows an asynchronous entry / exit system 1 including an entry / exit control device 100, a reader 200 (200a or 200b), and a monetary value management system 300. The entry / exit control device 100 controls the reader 200 (ticket gate, etc.) that controls the entry and exit of users. The reader 200 (200a or 200b) is a device such as a ticket gate that reads the identification information of the medium from the medium presented by the user. The monetary value management system 300 manages the SF balance of the user. The above "medium identification information" may be referred to as "medium ID" hereafter.

[0022] First, the entry / exit control device 100 controls the user's entry (Figure 1(1)). Specifically, the reader 200a reads the media ID from the media presented by the user and transmits the read media ID to the entry / exit control device 100 (Figure 1(1-1)). Then, the entry / exit control device 100 executes control to permit the user's entry based on the transmitted media ID (Figure 1(1-2)).

[0023] The entry / exit control device 100 uses the media ID of the user who has been granted entry to retrieve the SF balance of that user from the monetary value management system 300 after the user has entered (Figure 1 (2-1)). Then, the entry / exit control device 100 uses the retrieved SF balance as the "SF temporary balance (Figure 1 (2-2))" and executes exit control for the user based on the SF temporary balance (Figure 1 (3)).

[0024] Specifically, the entry / exit control device 100 executes control to allow the user to exit if the SF temporary balance is equal to or greater than the fare (Figure 1 (3-1)). On the other hand, if the SF temporary balance is less than the fare, the entry / exit control device 100 executes processing related to the deferral of fare payment, such as urging payment, payment of the fare at the next time of entry, or refusal of entry (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "payment deferral processing"), based on the payment deferral (Figure 1 (3-2)).

[0025] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment can appropriately control the user's entry and exit without considering the processing time in the information processing related to entry and exit control, by using the SF temporary balance acquired asynchronously. Therefore, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 enables appropriate control of user entry and exit in transportation systems, which was difficult to achieve with conventional reference technologies.

[0026] <Explanation of Asynchronous Entry / Exit System 1> From here, the detailed functions of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0027] (Asynchronous entry / exit system 1) As shown in Figure 2, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 includes an entry / exit control device 100, a reader 200, a monetary value management system 300, an account information management system 400, and a notification server 500. The following sections will describe the details of each of these devices.

[0028] (Entry / exit control device 100) The entry / exit control device 100 is a device that controls the operation of a ticket reader 200, such as a ticket gate, which verifies tickets when boarding a train, bus, etc. As shown in Figure 2, the entry / exit control device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0029] Furthermore, the entry / exit control device 100 may have an input unit (not shown) such as a touch panel or keyboard for receiving information input from the outside, and a display unit (not shown) such as a printer or display for displaying information such as the history and results of processing by the entry / exit control device 100.

[0030] (Communications Department 110) The communication unit 110 performs communications related to the input of information regarding the media ID from the reader 200, information regarding the SF balance from the monetary value management system 300, and information regarding the account ID from the account information management system 400, as well as the output of commands to the reader 200, etc., such as commands to open or close the partition door. For example, the communication unit 110 is implemented by a NIC (Network Interface Card), etc., and controls communications related to various types of information exchanged with connected devices.

[0031] (Storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is implemented by a storage device such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or a hard disk. The storage unit 120 stores data and programs necessary for various processes performed by the control unit 130. Specifically, the storage unit 120 has a media information storage unit 121. The storage unit 120 may also be implemented by a storage system installed outside the access control device 100.

[0032] (Media information storage unit 121) The media information storage unit 121 stores various types of information (media information) used when a user enters or exits the premises via a reader 200 (ticket gate), etc. An example of the information stored by the media information storage unit 121 will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a table diagram showing an example of media information according to this embodiment.

[0033] For example, the media information storage unit 121 stores the media ID "A", the SF provisional balance "B", and the payment deferral information "C" in a table format, as shown in Figure 3, in association with "No", which is information that identifies individual pieces of information. The letters "A to C" shown in the table diagram in Figure 3 are information that indicates a legend for the information stored for each item, and may be a combination of one or more of the following: text, numbers, formulas, diagrams, etc.

[0034] The above item "Media ID" includes information combining text, numbers, symbols, etc., as identification information to identify the electronic ticket or other medium used by the user. The above item "SF Provisional Balance" includes information on the SF provisional balance based on the SF balance obtained from the monetary value management system 300, including numbers, etc., that indicate the SF provisional balance. The above item "Payment Deferral Information" includes information on the deferral of payment of the prescribed fare, including the date and time the payment deferral was made, the amount for which payment has been deferred, and the number of times payment has been deferred.

[0035] (Control unit 130) The control unit 130 is implemented using a CPU (Central Processing Unit), NP (Network Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc., and executes the processing program stored in the memory unit 120. The control unit 130 also includes an entry control unit 131, an acquisition unit 132, a determination unit 133, a registration unit 134, and an exit control unit 135.

[0036] (Entry Control Unit 131) The entry control unit 131 controls user entry by controlling the opening and closing of the partition door of the reader 200 (ticket gate) based on the media ID obtained when the reader 200 reads the media.

[0037] For example, the entry control unit 131 controls the reader 200 (ticket gate) to open the partition door if the acquired media ID is stored in the media information storage unit 121 and the user associated with the media ID is a user who is permitted to enter. On the other hand, the entry control unit 131 controls the reader 200 (ticket gate) to close the partition door if the media ID does not exist or the user associated with the media ID is a user who is prohibited from entering.

[0038] (Acquisition part 132) After a user enters, the acquisition unit 132 retrieves the SF balance corresponding to the media ID from the monetary value management system 300 that manages the SF balance, to be used as a temporary SF balance for controlling the user's exit. The acquisition unit 132 then stores the retrieved SF balance in the media information storage unit 121 as a temporary SF balance (the item "Temporary SF Balance" shown in Figure 3).

[0039] For example, the acquisition unit 132 uses the acquired media ID to identify the account ID stored in the account information management system 400. Next, the acquisition unit 132 uses the identified account ID to acquire the "SF balance" associated with that account ID from the monetary value management system 300.

[0040] (Judgment unit 133) The determination unit 133 determines whether the temporary SF balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare when the user exits. If the temporary SF balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare, the determination unit 133 sends a command to the exit control unit 135 (described later) to permit the user to exit, and a command to the registration unit 134 to register the SF balance in the monetary value management system 300.

[0041] On the other hand, if the SF temporary balance is less than a predetermined fare, the determination unit 133 sends a command to the exit control unit 135 to perform a predetermined payment deferral process.

[0042] Furthermore, the processes related to the transmission of a command by the determination unit 133 to permit the user to leave, the transmission of a command to register the SF balance, or the transmission of a command to execute a predetermined payment deferral process will be explained in detail in the section describing Figure 5 below.

[0043] (Registration Section 134) When the user is permitted to exit, the registration unit 134 registers the remaining SF balance, after deducting the prescribed fare, into the monetary value management system 300.

[0044] For example, when the registration unit 134 receives a registration command from the determination unit 133, it subtracts a predetermined fare from the "SF temporary balance" stored in the media information storage unit 121. Next, the registration unit 134 uses the media ID related to the SF temporary balance from which the predetermined fare has been deducted to identify the account ID stored in the account information management system 400. Then, the registration unit 134 uses the identified account ID to register the "SF balance" corresponding to that account ID in the monetary value management system 300.

[0045] (Departure Control Unit 135) The exit control unit 135 controls the system to allow the user to exit if the determination unit 133 determines that the SF temporary balance is equal to or greater than a predetermined fare. For example, when the exit control unit 135 receives a command from the determination unit 133 to allow the user to exit, it controls the system to open the partition door of the reader device 200 (ticket gate).

[0046] On the other hand, if the exit control unit 135 receives a command from the determination unit 133 to execute a predetermined payment deferral process, it will execute the predetermined payment deferral process, such as payment deferral, denial of entry, or denial of exit. For example, if the exit control unit 135 decides to deny entry or denial of exit based on the payment deferral information, it will control the partition door of the reader device 200 (ticket gate) so as not to open. The above predetermined payment deferral processes will be explained in detail in the section describing Figure 5 below.

[0047] (Reading device 200) The reader 200 is a device such as a ticket gate that controls the entry or exit of a user, and acquires information such as a media ID recorded on a medium presented by the user, based on known technology. The reader 200 then transmits the acquired media ID to the entry / exit control device 100.

[0048] (Monetary Value Management System 300) The monetary value management system 300 stores the SF balance held by each user, associated with each user's account ID. The monetary value management system 300 may be configured using, for example, an on-premise server, a cloud server, or other specified information processing device.

[0049] (Account Information Management System 400) The account information management system 400 is a system that manages information such as account IDs associated with each user's media ID (account information). The account information management system 400 may be configured using, for example, a predetermined information processing device such as an on-premise server or a cloud server.

[0050] (Notification server 500) The notification server 500 (notification unit) outputs a push notification or the like to the user when the user's payment deferral status meets predetermined conditions. Based on the information regarding the payment deferral of predetermined fares recorded in the monetary value management system 300, the notification server 500 outputs at least one of the following to the user who has been granted a payment deferral: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment.

[0051] The account information management system 400 may be configured using, for example, a predetermined information processing device such as an on-premise server or a cloud server. Furthermore, notification processing by the notification server 500 may be implemented not only by the notification server 500, but also by the aforementioned monetary value management system 300, the account information management system 400, or a ticket management server that manages the issuance of train tickets, commuter passes, express tickets, etc.

[0052] (An example of processing) From here, an example of processing by the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 will be explained using Figures 4 to 6. Figures 4 to 6 are diagrams illustrating an example of entry / exit control processing according to the embodiment.

[0053] Figure 4 illustrates an example of basic processing by the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 as the first example. Figure 5 illustrates an example of processing related to payment deferral, entry denial, push notifications, etc., by the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 as the second example. Figure 6 illustrates an example of processing related to updating the SF temporary balance by the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 as the third example.

[0054] (Example 1) First, as the first example, we will explain "an example of basic processing" using Figure 4. In the first example, we will show an example of controlling the exit of a user using a temporary SF balance based on the SF balance obtained at any arbitrary time (asynchronously) after the user has entered.

[0055] First, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) performs entry control for users who wish to enter the premises (Figure 4 (1)).

[0056] Specifically, the reader 200a obtains the "Media ID: A" related to the user from the media presented by the user and transmits it to the entry / exit control device 100 (Figure 4 (1-1)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) grants the user entry if it satisfies predetermined conditions, such as the "Media ID: A" transmitted from the reader 200a being stored in the media information storage unit 121 (Figure 4 (1-2)). Note that the above "predetermined conditions" are not particularly limited and may be any conditions set to grant the user entry.

[0057] The entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) acquires the SF balance related to the user as a temporary SF balance at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered (Figure 4 (2)).

[0058] Specifically, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) uses the acquired "media ID: A" (Figure 4 (2-1)) to identify the "account ID: a" corresponding to "media ID: A" recorded in the account information management system 400 (Figure 4 (2-2)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) uses the identified "account ID: a" (Figure 4 (2-3)) to acquire the "SF balance: 500 yen" associated with that "account ID: a" as "SF temporary balance: 500 yen" (Figures 4 (2-4) and (2-5)).

[0059] The entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) performs exit control for users who wish to exit the premises (Figure 4 (3)). Specifically, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) controls the opening of the partition door of the reader 200b to allow the user to exit because the "SF temporary balance: 500 yen (Figure 4 (2-5))" is greater than the fare of "300 yen" (Figure 4 (3-1)).

[0060] Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (registration unit) updates the SF balance recorded in the monetary value management system 300 based on the SF temporary balance after the predetermined fare has been deducted (Figure 4 (4)).

[0061] Specifically, the entry / exit control device 100 (registration unit) subtracts the fare of 300 yen from the temporary SF balance of 500 yen to calculate the temporary SF balance after the fare deduction of 200 yen (Figure 4 (4-1)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (registration unit) performs the same processing as described in Figure 4 (2-1) to (2-3) to identify the target account ID. Then, the entry / exit control device 100 (registration unit) updates the SF balance corresponding to the identified account ID to 200 yen (Figure 4 (4-2)).

[0062] As explained in the first example, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 acquires a temporary SF balance to be used for fare settlement at any time when no high-speed processing other than user entry / exit is required, thereby enabling the entry / exit process, which requires high-speed processing, to be performed appropriately.

[0063] (Second example) Next, as a second example, we will explain "an example of processing related to payment deferral, denial of entry, push notifications, etc." using Figure 5. In this second example, if the temporary SF balance, based on the SF balance obtained at any time (asynchronously) after the user's entry, falls below the predetermined fare, we will implement "payment deferral processing."

[0064] First, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) performs entry control for users who wish to enter the premises (Figure 5(1)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) acquires the SF balance related to the user as a temporary SF balance at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered (Figure 5(2)). Note that the processes shown in Figure 5(1) and (2) are the same as in the first example, so their explanation is omitted.

[0065] The entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) controls the exit of users who wish to exit the premises (Figure 5 (3)). Here, if the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) determines that the SF temporary balance is less than a predetermined fare, it performs a "payment deferral process" which involves recording payment deferral information to the monetary value management system 300 and controlling the user to allow them to exit.

[0066] For example, in the second example shown in Figure 5, since the SF temporary balance of "100 yen" is less than the fare of "300 yen", the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) executes the following "payment deferral processing".

[0067] First, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) controls the partition door of the reading device 200b to open, thereby allowing the user to exit (Figure 5 (3-1)).

[0068] Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) performs a payment deferral information registration process that includes information such as the date and time the payment deferral occurred for the user and the amount of the payment deferral (Figure 5 (4)).

[0069] Specifically, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) performs the same processing as described in (2-1) to (2-3) of Figure 4 to identify the target account ID. Then, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) records payment deferral information, including information such as "Date and time (grace period): 10 / 30", "Amount (total deferred amount): 200 yen", and "Number of times (number of grace periods): 1", in the monetary value management system 300 in association with the identified account ID (Figure 5 (4-1)).

[0070] The entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) then controls the entry of a user who has been granted a payment deferral if the total amount of deferred fares recorded in the payment deferral information in the monetary value management system 300 exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted (Figure 5 (5-1)). Note that the "predetermined value" and "predetermined period" in the above entry prohibition control may be arbitrarily set conditions.

[0071] Furthermore, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) controls the system to prohibit the exit of a user whose payment has been deferred if the total amount of deferred fares included in the payment deferral information recorded in the monetary value management system 300 exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted (Figure 5 (5-2)). Note that the "predetermined value" and "predetermined period" in the above control related to the prohibition of exit may be arbitrary conditions.

[0072] For example, if the specified value for the total grace period for the above fare is "100 yen (or more)", the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) can control the system to prohibit the user's entry because the total grace period shown in Figure 5 is "200 yen". Also, if the specified value for the number of grace periods for the above fare is "1 time (or more)", the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) can control the system to prohibit the user's entry because the number of grace periods for the above fare is "1 time" as shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, if the specified value for the grace period for the above fare is "1 week", the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) can control the system to prohibit the user's entry because the grace period has "more than 1 week elapsed (for example, as of November 30th)".

[0073] Furthermore, the notification server 500 (notification unit) outputs at least one of the following notifications to the terminal device 20 etc. operated by the user who has been granted a payment deferral, based on the payment deferral information recorded in the monetary value management system 300: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment.

[0074] For example, if a payment deferral for fares has occurred (Figure 5 (5-3)), the notification server 500 (notification unit) can output a notification to the user such as "You have an outstanding fare of XX yen. Please settle the outstanding fare immediately" (Figure 5 (5-4)).

[0075] As explained in the second example, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 enables proper collection of debts (recovery of unpaid fares) from users whose fare payment has been deferred by executing a process to prompt them to pay the fare.

[0076] (Third example) Next, as a third example, we will explain "an example of processing related to updating the SF temporary balance" using Figure 6. In this third example, when acquiring the SF temporary balance based on the SF balance acquired at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered the system, if a predetermined action occurs that causes a change in the SF balance, such as a purchase by the user, the SF balance is acquired again and the SF temporary balance is updated.

[0077] First, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) performs entry control for users who wish to enter the premises (Figure 6 (1)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) acquires the SF balance "500 yen" related to the user at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered, as a temporary SF balance "500 yen" (Figure 6 (2) and (2-1)). Note that the processes shown in Figure 6 (1), (2) and (2-1) are the same as those in the first and second examples, so their explanation is omitted.

[0078] Here, if a user performs a predetermined action after entering that causes a change in the SF balance, such as making a purchase, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) uses the media ID to acquire the SF balance at the time the predetermined action causing the change in the SF balance was performed by the user from the monetary value management system 300 as a temporary SF balance (Figure 6 (3)).

[0079] Specifically, when a user makes a purchase of "100 yen" and the SF balance changes from "500 yen" to "400 yen", the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) acquires the SF balance of "400 yen" related to that user as a temporary SF balance of "400 yen" (Figure 6 (3) and (3-1)).

[0080] The entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) uses the acquired SF temporary balance of "400 yen" to perform exit control for the user (Figure 6 (4)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (registration unit) updates the SF balance recorded in the monetary value management system 300 to "100 yen" based on the SF temporary balance of "100 yen" after the predetermined fare has been deducted (Figure 6 (5)).

[0081] As explained in the third example, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 enables the payment of fares using the latest temporary SF balance by reacquiring the SF balance as a temporary SF balance when the SF balance changes due to the user's actions within the premises.

[0082] (Processing procedure) From here, the processing procedure of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the entry / exit processing procedure according to this embodiment.

[0083] The asynchronous entry / exit system 1 waits for processing until the user presents the medium and the medium ID is obtained (No in S101). Then, when the user presents the medium and the medium ID is obtained, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 starts the entry / exit control processing (Yes in S101).

[0084] First, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (entry control unit) controls the user's entry based on the media ID obtained when the media reader reads the media (S102). Next, after the user's entry, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (acquisition unit) obtains the SF balance corresponding to the media ID as a temporary SF balance from the monetary value management system (S103).

[0085] Here, if the SF temporary balance is greater than or equal to the fare (Yes in S104), the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (exit control unit) controls the system to allow the user to exit (S105). Next, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (registration unit) registers the SF balance, after deducting the predetermined fare, into the monetary value management system (S106). Then, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 completes the process.

[0086] On the other hand, if the SF temporary balance is less than the fare (No. in S104), the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (exit control unit) controls the user to allow them to exit (S107). Next, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (exit control unit) records the payment deferral information into the monetary value management system (S108). Next, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 performs the payment deferral process (S109). Then, the entry / exit control device 100 terminates the process.

[0087] (effect) Next, we will explain the effects of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment. Conventionally, when migrating user entry / exit control processing based on on-premise servers to entry / exit control processing based on cloud servers, there are challenges in controlling the appropriate entry and exit of users in transportation facilities.

[0088] Therefore, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit 131) of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment controls the user's entry based on the media ID obtained when the media reader 200 reads the media. After the user enters, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit 132) of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 obtains the SF balance corresponding to the media ID from the monetary value management system 300 that stores the SF balance, as a temporary SF balance used to control the user's exit.

[0089] Therefore, according to the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 of this embodiment, by using a pre-acquired temporary SF balance at any time after the user has entered, when high-speed processing is not required at the time of entry or exit, it becomes unnecessary to acquire the SF balance each time the user enters or exits. In other words, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 achieves faster processing at the time of the user's entry and exit by using a pre-acquired temporary SF balance. As a result, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 has the effect of enabling appropriate control of user entry and exit in transportation facilities.

[0090] The determination unit 133 determines whether the temporary SF balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare when the user exits. The exit control unit 135 controls the user to allow them to exit if the determination unit 133 determines that the temporary SF balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare. The registration unit 134 registers the SF balance, after deducting the predetermined fare, to the monetary value management system 300 when the user's exit is permitted.

[0091] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can speed up the user entry process by obtaining the temporary SF balance after the user enters. Furthermore, if the obtained temporary SF balance is greater than or equal to the fare, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can first allow the user to exit, and then register the latest SF balance in the monetary value management system 300 based on the temporary SF balance after deducting the fare.

[0092] In other words, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 acquires and updates the temporary SF balance at times other than entry and exit, when high-speed processing is required. This has the effect of enabling appropriate control of user entry and exit, even when transitioning to user entry and exit control using a cloud-based server.

[0093] If the determination unit 133 determines that the SF temporary balance is less than the predetermined fare, the exit control unit 135 controls the recording of payment deferral information to the monetary value management system 300 and permits the user to exit.

[0094] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can allow the user to exit after granting a payment deferral, even if the acquired SF temporary balance is insufficient to cover the fare. Furthermore, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can perform appropriate payment deferral processing by recording information such as the date and time, amount, and number of times the payment deferral was granted as payment deferral information in the monetary value management system 300.

[0095] The entry control unit 131 controls the entry of a user who has been granted a payment deferral if the total amount of deferred fares recorded in the payment deferral information in the monetary value management system 300 exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted.

[0096] Furthermore, the exit control unit 135 controls the system to prohibit the exit of a user who has been granted a payment deferral if the total amount of deferred fares included in the payment deferral information recorded in the monetary value management system 300 exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted.

[0097] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can refuse entry or exit to users who have a payment deferral, especially if the amount of the deferral is large or if the number of payment deferrals is high. As a result, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 has the effect of appropriately recovering the deferred fare from users who are subject to payment deferral.

[0098] Furthermore, if a user is prohibited from entering or exiting the premises, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can lift the entry or exit ban for that user if the user takes measures to lift the ban, such as charging their SF balance, linking a valid credit card or bank account to their account, or completing a payment as a result of taking such measures.

[0099] The notification server 500 outputs to the user who has been granted a payment deferral, based on the payment deferral information recorded in the monetary value management system 300, at least one of the following: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment.

[0100] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can notify users who have a payment deferral that payment has been deferred and the amount owed, thereby prompting users to pay the deferred fare. As a result, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 has the effect of appropriately recovering the deferred fare from users who are subject to the payment deferral.

[0101] The acquisition unit 132 uses the media ID to acquire the SF balance at the time a predetermined action that causes a change in the SF balance is performed by the user, as a provisional SF balance from the monetary value management system 300.

[0102] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 can update the temporary SF balance each time the SF balance changes, such as when a user makes a purchase using the SF balance after passing through a reader 200 (ticket gate) within the station. As a result, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 enables the user to exit using the temporary SF balance based on the latest SF balance.

[0103] <Variation> The following describes a modified example implemented by the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0104] (Another form of notification processing) In the second example, it was explained that the "notification server (notification unit)" makes a predetermined push notification, but as will be explained in the following modifications, this may be done by the entry / exit control device 100 or other information processing devices.

[0105] Here, we will describe a different form (modified version) in which the entry / exit control device 100 executes the "push notification" process described in the "second example" above. First, we will use Figure 8 to explain an example of the device configuration of the entry / exit control device 100 according to the modified version. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the entry / exit control device according to the modified version.

[0106] (Entry / exit control device 100) As shown in Figure 8, the modified entry / exit control device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130, similar to the entry / exit control device 100 according to the embodiment described with reference to Figure 2. Hereafter, explanations of parts with overlapping functions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0107] (Notification Department 136) The modified entry / exit control device 100 has a notification unit 136. Based on information regarding the deferral of payment of a predetermined fare recorded in the monetary value management system 300, the notification unit 136 outputs at least one of the following to the user who has been granted a payment deferral: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment.

[0108] (An example of a modified payment deferral process, including notification processing) Here, we will explain "an example of a modified payment deferral process including notification processing" using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of entry / exit control processing related to the modified process.

[0109] Figure 9 illustrates an example in which the entry / exit control device 100 performs "payment deferral processing such as payment deferral, prohibition of entry / exit, and push notification" when the temporary SF balance, based on the SF balance acquired at any time (asynchronously) after the user's entry, falls below a predetermined fare.

[0110] First, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) controls the entry of users who wish to enter the premises (Figure 9 (1)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) acquires the SF balance related to the user as a temporary SF balance at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered (Figure 9 (2)).

[0111] Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) performs exit control for users who wish to exit the premises (Figure 9 (3)). Here, if the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) determines that the SF temporary balance is less than a predetermined fare, it performs a "payment deferral process" which involves recording payment deferral information to the monetary value management system 300 (Figure 9 (4)) and controlling the user to allow them to exit (Figure 9 (5)).

[0112] The processes shown in Figure 9(1) to (5) above are the same as those in the second example according to the embodiment, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0113] The entry / exit control device 100 controls the entry or exit of a user who has been granted a payment deferral if the total amount of deferred fares recorded in the payment deferral information in the monetary value management system 300 exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted (Figure 9 (5-1) or (5-2)).

[0114] Furthermore, the entry / exit control device 100 (notification unit) outputs at least one of the following to the terminal device 20 etc. operated by the user who has been granted a payment deferral, based on the payment deferral information recorded in the monetary value management system 300: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment. (Figure 9 (5-3)).

[0115] For example, if a fare payment deferral has occurred, the entry / exit control device 100 (notification unit) can output a notification to the user such as, "You have an outstanding fare of XX yen. Please settle the outstanding fare immediately."

[0116] As described above, the entry / exit control device 100 enables proper debt collection (recovery of unpaid fares) from users whose fare payment has been deferred by executing a process to prompt them to pay the fare.

[0117] As an example of a modified configuration, we have described an example in which the "entry / exit control device 100" performs notification processing, but of course, it is not limited to the entry / exit control device 100. For example, in addition to the entry / exit control device 100, the monetary value management system 300, the account information management system 400, and other servers and information processing devices may be configured to perform notification processing such as push notifications.

[0118] (Other forms of entry / exit control using ticket information) In the first example, entry and exit control was explained using the SF temporary balance, but "ticket information" may be used instead of the SF temporary balance. The above ticket information refers to an electronic ticket that allows entry or exit within a specified section, and includes, for example, special offer tickets or commuter passes.

[0119] Here, we will describe a second modified example, which is a different embodiment from the "first example" described above. First, we will describe an example of the device configuration of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 related to "entry / exit control using ticket information or SF temporary balance" using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to the second modified example.

[0120] (Asynchronous entry / exit system 1) The asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to the second modified example includes an entry / exit control device 100, a reader 200, a monetary value management system 300, an account information management system 400, and a ticket information management system 600. Hereafter, explanations of overlapping functions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0121] (Entry / exit control device 100) As shown in Figure 10, the entry / exit control device 100 according to the second modified example has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130, similar to the entry / exit control device 100 according to the embodiment described with reference to Figure 2.

[0122] (Judgment unit 133) The determination unit 133 determines whether to allow a user to exit based on ticket information or SF temporary balance when the user attempts to exit. The determination unit 133 then transmits the determination result to the exit control unit 135.

[0123] Specifically, the determination unit 133 determines whether to allow the user to enter or exit based on the ticket information if there is valid ticket information indicating that the user can enter or exit using the ticket information instead of paying the fare for the section used by the user.

[0124] On the other hand, if no valid ticket information exists, the determination unit 133 makes a decision to allow the user to enter or exit based on the SF temporary balance instead of the ticket information. For example, if no ticket information exists, the determination unit 133 determines whether the SF temporary balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare when the user is exiting.

[0125] (Registration Section 134) The registration unit 134 sends an update command to the monetary value management system 300 to update the SF balance by deducting a predetermined fare from the SF balance, and fare information indicating the amount of the fare. As a result, the SF balance registered in the monetary value management system 300 is updated to the latest SF balance after the predetermined fare has been deducted.

[0126] (Departure Control Unit 135) The exit control unit 135 controls the user's exit based on the determination result of the determination unit 133. For example, the exit control unit 135 performs control to permit the user's exit based on at least one of the ticket information and the SF temporary balance.

[0127] The exit control unit 135, if ticket information exists, executes control to allow the user to exit based on the ticket information. For example, if the exit control unit 135 receives a determination result from the determination unit 133 that allows the user to exit based on the ticket information, it executes control to allow the user to exit. On the other hand, if the exit control unit 135 receives a determination result from the determination unit 133 that does not allow the user to exit based on the ticket information, it executes control to deny the user to exit.

[0128] On the other hand, if ticket information does not exist, the exit control unit 135 executes control to allow the user to exit based on the remaining monetary value. For example, the exit control unit 135 controls to allow the user to exit if the determination unit 133 determines that the SF temporary balance is equal to or greater than a predetermined fare. Conversely, the exit control unit 135 executes control to deny the user to exit if the determination unit 133 determines that the SF temporary balance is less than a predetermined fare.

[0129] (Ticket information acquisition section 137) The ticket information acquisition unit 137 acquires ticket information related to railway use provided by the railway operator from the ticket information management system 600. Specifically, the ticket information acquisition unit 137 acquires ticket information corresponding to the media ID received by the admission control unit 131 and transmits it to the determination unit 133.

[0130] (Ticket information management system 600) The ticket information management system 600 is an information processing device that manages ticket information held by a user, associating it with each user's account ID. The ticket information management system 600 may be configured using a predetermined information processing device, such as an on-premise server or a cloud server.

[0131] (Other forms of entry / exit control using ticket information) Here, we will explain "another form of entry / exit control using ticket information" with reference to Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of entry / exit control processing related to the second modified example. Figure 11 illustrates an example in which the entry / exit control device 100 controls the entry and exit of a user based on the SF temporary balance or ticket information acquired at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered.

[0132] First, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) receives the media ID (in the case of Figure 11, "media ID: C") read by the reader 200a (Figure 11 (1)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (determination unit) uses the received media ID to determine whether or not to allow entry to the user who wishes to enter (Figure 11 (2)).

[0133] For example, the entry / exit control device 100 (determination unit) determines that if the received "media ID: C" is stored in the memory unit of the entry / exit control device 100, it will allow the user to enter. On the other hand, if the received "media ID: C" is not stored in the memory unit of the entry / exit control device 100, or is unavailable, the entry / exit control device 100 (determination unit) will not allow the user to enter.

[0134] The entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) executes entry control for users who wish to enter the premises based on the determination result of the determination unit (Figure 11 (3)). For example, in Figure 11, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) executes control to permit the entry of the user (Figure 11 (3-1)).

[0135] The entry / exit control device 100 (ticket information acquisition unit) acquires ticket information relating to the user at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered (Figure 11 (4)).

[0136] Specifically, the entry / exit control device 100 (ticket information acquisition unit) uses the acquired "media ID: C" (Figure 11 (4-1)) to identify the "account ID: c" corresponding to "media ID: C" recorded in the account information management system 400 (Figure 11 (4-2)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (ticket information acquisition unit) uses the identified "account ID: c" (Figure 11 (4-3)) to acquire the "ticket information: α" associated with that "account ID: c" (Figure 11 (4-4)).

[0137] Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) acquires the SF balance related to the user as a temporary SF balance at any time (asynchronously) after the user has entered (Figure 11 (5)). Note that the order of processing between "acquisition of ticket information" and "acquisition of temporary SF balance" described above may be reversed.

[0138] Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) performs exit control for users who wish to exit the premises (Figure 11 (6)). Specifically, if the determination unit determines that valid ticket information exists or that the SF temporary balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) controls the user to allow them to exit.

[0139] For example, in the example shown in Figure 11, the user possesses "ticket information: α" corresponding to "route: α" (i.e., "valid ticket information exists"), so the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) executes control to allow the user to exit (Figure 11 (6-1) and (6-2)). On the other hand, if no valid ticket information exists, the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) can control the user's exit using the SF temporary balance (not shown in Figure 11).

[0140] The entry / exit control device 100 (registration unit) then performs a process to update the SF balance recorded in the monetary value management system 300 (Figure 11 (7)). In the example in Figure 11, valid ticket information exists and there is no change in the temporary SF balance, so the SF balance managed by the monetary value management system 300 does not change.

[0141] As described above, the entry / exit control device 100 enables appropriate exit control according to the presence or absence of the user's ticket information by using the ticket information if valid ticket information exists, and by using the SF temporary balance if valid ticket information does not exist.

[0142] (Access control during network failures) Here, as an example of implementation based on the second modified example described above, "access control during network failure" will be explained using Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of implementation based on the second modified example.

[0143] Figure 12 illustrates an example of how the access control device 100 controls user access when a network failure occurs and communication between the access control device 100 and other devices is interrupted. Note that explanations that overlap with those in Figure 11 are omitted.

[0144] First, the entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) receives the media ID (in the case of Figure 12, "Media ID: C") read by the reader 200a (Figure 12 (1)). Next, the entry / exit control device 100 (determination unit) uses the received media ID to determine whether or not to allow entry to the user who wishes to enter (Figure 12 (2)).

[0145] The entry / exit control device 100 (entry control unit) executes entry control for users who wish to enter the premises based on the determination result of the determination unit (Figure 12 (3) and (3-1)). In the example shown in Figure 12, a case is assumed in which a network failure occurs after the user has entered, and communication between the entry / exit control device 100 and the monetary value management system 300, the account information management system 400, or the ticket information management system 600 is interrupted. Note that the timing of the network failure is not particularly limited and may occur, for example, between the time the user enters and before they exit.

[0146] The entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) performs exit control for users who wish to exit the premises (Figure 12 (5)). Specifically, because the entry / exit control device 100 (exit control unit) has not been able to obtain ticket information or SF temporary balance due to a network failure, it controls the user to exit after deferring fare payment (Figure 12 (5-1)).

[0147] Then, the entry / exit control device 100 (ticket information acquisition unit) acquires the ticket information relating to the user when the network failure is resolved (Figure 12 (6)). The entry / exit control device 100 (acquisition unit) also acquires the SF balance relating to the user as a temporary SF balance (Figure 12 (7)). Note that the order of processing between "acquisition of ticket information" and "acquisition of temporary SF balance" described above may be reversed.

[0148] The entry / exit control device 100 (registration unit) then performs a process to update the SF balance recorded in the monetary value management system 300 (Figure 12 (8)). In the example in Figure 12, valid ticket information α exists (Figure 12 (8-1)), and there is no change in the temporary SF balance, so the SF balance managed by the monetary value management system 300 does not change.

[0149] As described above, even if a network failure or other issue occurs and communication between devices is interrupted, the entry / exit control device 100 enables appropriate exit control according to the presence or absence of the user's ticket information by using the ticket information if valid ticket information exists, based on the payment deferral, and using the SF temporary balance if no valid ticket information exists.

[0150] (Procedure for processing the second modified example) From here, the procedure for processing by the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 related to the second modified example will be explained using Figure 13. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the entry / exit processing procedure related to the second modified example.

[0151] The asynchronous entry / exit system 1 waits for processing until the user presents the medium and the medium ID is obtained (No in S201). Then, when the user presents the medium and the medium ID is obtained, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 starts the entry control process (Yes in S201).

[0152] First, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (entry control unit) receives the media ID obtained when the media is read by the reader (S202). Next, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (acquisition unit or ticket information acquisition unit) acquires the ticket information and SF temporary balance corresponding to the media ID (S203).

[0153] If valid ticket information exists (Yes in S204), the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (exit control unit) controls the user's exit based on the ticket information (S205). On the other hand, if valid ticket information does not exist (No in S204), the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 (exit control unit) controls the user's exit based on the SF temporary balance (S206).

[0154] Next, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 updates the SF balance recorded in the monetary value management system (S208). Then, the entry / exit control device 100 terminates the process.

[0155] (Effects of the second variation) Next, we will explain the effects of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to the second modified example. The ticket information acquisition unit 137 acquires ticket information related to railway use provided by the railway operator. The exit control unit 135 executes control to permit the user to exit based on at least one of the ticket information and the SF temporary balance. Specifically, if ticket information exists, the exit control unit 135 executes control to permit the user to exit based on the ticket information. If ticket information does not exist, the exit control unit 135 executes control to permit the user to exit based on the balance of monetary value.

[0156] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1, when a user possesses both ticket information and a temporary SF balance, not only utilizes the temporary SF balance but also enables the use of transportation services using the ticket information if valid ticket information exists.

[0157] The determination unit 133 determines whether the temporary SF balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare when the user is about to exit, if no ticket information exists. The exit control unit 135 controls the system to allow the user to exit if the determination unit 133 determines that the temporary SF balance is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare.

[0158] Through the process described above, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 allows the user to use transportation services using their SF temporary balance if they do not possess a valid ticket and no valid ticket information exists.

[0159] Furthermore, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to the second modified example, as explained with reference to Figure 12, enables users to enter and exit appropriately even in the event of network failures or other issues. As a result, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 automatically performs payment deferral processing in the event of network failures or other issues, enabling users of public transportation to use public transportation as usual regardless of the occurrence of network failures. In addition, by deferring payments even in the event of network failures or other issues, the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 eliminates the need for refund processing at station ticket windows, etc., thereby reducing the burden on station staff.

[0160] (Data, etc.) The terms used in describing this embodiment, such as SF balance, SF provisional balance, monetary value, media ID (medium identification information), account ID, payment deferral information, payment deferral processing, and the names of the functional parts of each device constituting the asynchronous entry / exit system 1, are merely examples and can be changed at will.

[0161] For example, the media information storage unit 121 is described as storing media ID, user information, SF provisional balance, and payment deferral information in a table format as shown in Figure 3, associated with "No," which is information that identifies individual pieces of information. However, the item names and the information stored associated with those items are not limited.

[0162] (Flowcharts, etc.) The steps in a flowchart may be rearranged as long as they do not contradict each other, and some steps may be omitted. Furthermore, conjunctions such as "next," "continue," "in addition," "at this time," and "on this occasion" in the flowchart's explanation do not limit the order or timing of the processes in the flowchart. Also, the steps, processes, and their names in a flowchart are merely examples and may be changed as desired.

[0163] (Regarding the configuration of each functional part) Each of the functions of the asynchronous entry / exit system 1 according to this embodiment described above may be implemented by any of the entry / exit control device 100, the reader 200, the monetary value management system 300, the account information management system 400, the notification server 500, and the ticket information management system 600.

[0164] <Hardware Configuration> Furthermore, the various devices included in the entry / exit control device 100 according to the above-described embodiment are realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration such as that shown in Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the entry / exit control device 100 according to the embodiment.

[0165] Computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which a central processing unit 1030, memory 1040, storage 1050, output interface 1060, input interface 1070, and communication interface 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0166] The central processing unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the memory 1040 and storage 1050, as well as programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The memory 1040 is a memory device, such as RAM, that temporarily stores data used by the central processing unit 1030 for various calculations. The storage 1050 is a storage device where data used by the central processing unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is implemented using ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, etc.

[0167] Output IF1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to output devices 1010 that output various types of information, such as monitors and printers. It can be implemented using connectors of standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). Input IF1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as mice, keyboards, and cameras. It can be implemented using USB, for example. Input devices 1020 may also be devices that read information from optical recording media, magneto-optical recording media, tape media, magnetic recording media, or semiconductor memory, or external storage media such as USB memory.

[0168] The communication interface 1080 receives data from other devices via the network N and sends it to the central processing unit 1030, and also transmits data generated by the central processing unit 1030 to other devices via the network N. The central processing unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and input IF 1070. For example, the central processing unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or storage 1050 into memory 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0169] For example, if computer 1000 functions as an entry / exit control device 100, the central processing unit 1030 of computer 1000 executes a program loaded onto memory 1040 to realize the functions of the control units of each device.

[0170] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are illustrative examples, and the present invention may be implemented in other forms by various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, starting with the embodiments described in the disclosure section of the invention. Furthermore, the terms "section, module, unit" used above can be read as "means," "circuit," etc. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0171] 1. Asynchronous entry / exit system 100 Entry / Exit Control Device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Media information storage unit 130 Control Unit 131 Entrance Control Unit 132 Acquisition Department 133 Judgment section 134 Registration Department 135 Exit Control Unit 136 Notification Department 137 Ticket Information Acquisition Department 200 Reader 300 Monetary Value Management Systems 400 Account Information Management System 500 Notification Server 600 Ticket Information Management System

Claims

1. An access control unit that controls user entry based on the identification information of the medium obtained when the medium is read by a reader, After the user enters, an acquisition unit acquires the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value, as a provisional balance of monetary value used to control the user's exit. An asynchronous entry / exit system characterized by having the following features.

2. When the user exits, a determination unit determines whether the provisional balance of the monetary value is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare, If the determination unit determines that the provisional balance of monetary value is equal to or greater than a predetermined fare, the exit control unit controls the user to allow them to exit, The system further includes a registration unit that, when the user is permitted to exit, registers the remaining balance of the monetary value after deducting a predetermined fare to the monetary value management system, The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the determination unit determines that the provisional balance of the monetary value is less than the predetermined fare, it will record information regarding the deferral of payment of the predetermined fare into the monetary value management system and control the system to allow the user to exit. The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 2.

4. The aforementioned entry control unit, If the total amount of deferred fares recorded in the information regarding the deferral of payment of predetermined fares in the monetary value management system exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted, the system will control the entry of the user for whom the payment deferral was granted. The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 3.

5. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the total amount of deferred fares recorded in the information regarding the deferral of payment of predetermined fares in the monetary value management system exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted, the system will control the system to prohibit the user who has been granted a payment deferral from exiting the facility. The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 3.

6. The system further includes a notification unit that, based on the information regarding the deferral of payment of the predetermined fare recorded in the monetary value management system, outputs to the user who has been granted a payment deferral at least one of the following: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment. The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 3.

7. The acquisition unit is, Using the identification information of the aforementioned medium, the balance of the aforementioned monetary value at the time when a predetermined action causing a change in the balance of the aforementioned monetary value is performed by the user is obtained from the monetary value management system as a provisional balance of the aforementioned monetary value. The asynchronous entry / exit system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A ticket information acquisition unit that acquires ticket information related to railway use provided by railway operators, The system further comprises: an exit control unit that performs control to permit the user to exit based on at least one of the ticket information and the provisional balance of monetary value; The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 1.

9. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the aforementioned ticket information exists, control is executed to allow the user to exit based on the ticket information. If the aforementioned ticket information does not exist, the system will execute a control to allow the user to exit based on the provisional balance of the monetary value. The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 8.

10. If the aforementioned ticket information does not exist, the system further includes a determination unit that determines whether the provisional balance of the monetary value at the time of the user's exit is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the determination unit determines that the provisional balance of monetary value is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare, the system controls the system to allow the user to exit. The asynchronous entry / exit system according to feature 9.

11. A method for asynchronous entry and exit to be executed by an asynchronous entry and exit system, An entry control process that controls user entry based on identification information of the medium obtained by reading the medium with a reader, After the user enters, the acquisition step involves obtaining the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value, as a provisional balance of monetary value used to control the user's exit. An asynchronous entry / exit method characterized by including the following.

12. An access control procedure that controls user entry based on identification information of a medium obtained by reading the medium with a reader, After the user enters, the acquisition procedure involves obtaining the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value, as a provisional balance of monetary value used to control the user's exit; An asynchronous entry / exit program to cause a computer to execute.

13. An access control unit that controls user entry based on the identification information of the medium obtained when the medium is read by a reader, After the user enters, an acquisition unit acquires the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value, as a provisional balance of monetary value used to control the user's exit. An entry / exit control device characterized by having the following features.

14. When the user exits, a determination unit determines whether the provisional balance of the monetary value is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare, If the determination unit determines that the provisional balance of monetary value is equal to or greater than a predetermined fare, the exit control unit controls the user to allow them to exit, The system further includes a registration unit that, when the user is permitted to exit, registers the remaining balance of the monetary value after deducting a predetermined fare to the monetary value management system, The entry / exit control device according to claim 13.

15. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the determination unit determines that the provisional balance of the monetary value is less than the predetermined fare, it will record information regarding the deferral of payment of the predetermined fare into the monetary value management system and control the system to allow the user to exit. The entry / exit control device according to feature 14.

16. The aforementioned entry control unit, If the total amount of deferred fares recorded in the information regarding the deferral of payment of predetermined fares in the monetary value management system exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted, the system will control the entry of the user for whom the payment deferral was granted. The entry / exit control device according to claim 15.

17. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the total amount of deferred fares recorded in the information regarding the deferral of payment of predetermined fares in the monetary value management system exceeds a predetermined value, or if a predetermined period has elapsed since the payment deferral was granted, the system will control the system to prohibit the user who has been granted a payment deferral from exiting the facility. The entry / exit control device according to claim 15.

18. The system further includes a notification unit that, based on the information regarding the deferral of payment of the predetermined fare recorded in the monetary value management system, outputs to the user who has been granted a payment deferral at least one of the following: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment. The entry / exit control device according to claim 15.

19. The acquisition unit is, Using the identification information of the aforementioned medium, the balance of the aforementioned monetary value at the time when a predetermined action causing a change in the balance of the aforementioned monetary value is performed by the user is obtained from the monetary value management system as a provisional balance of the aforementioned monetary value. An access control device according to any one of claims 13 to 18.

20. A ticket information acquisition unit that acquires ticket information related to railway use provided by railway operators, The system further comprises: an exit control unit that performs control to permit the user to exit based on at least one of the ticket information and the provisional balance of monetary value; The entry / exit control device according to claim 13.

21. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the aforementioned ticket information exists, control is executed to allow the user to exit based on the ticket information. If the aforementioned ticket information does not exist, the system will execute a control to allow the user to exit based on the remaining balance of the monetary value. The entry / exit control device according to claim 20.

22. If the aforementioned ticket information does not exist, the system further includes a determination unit that determines whether the provisional balance of the monetary value at the time of the user's exit is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare. The aforementioned exit control unit, If the determination unit determines that the provisional balance of monetary value is equal to or greater than the predetermined fare, the system controls the system to allow the user to exit. The entry / exit control device according to claim 20.

23. An entry / exit control method to be executed by an entry / exit control device, An entry control process that controls user entry based on identification information of the medium obtained by reading the medium with a reader, After the user enters, the acquisition step involves obtaining the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value, as a provisional balance of monetary value used to control the user's exit. An entry / exit control method characterized by including the following:

24. An access control procedure that controls user entry based on identification information of a medium obtained by reading the medium with a reader, After the user enters, the acquisition procedure involves obtaining the balance of monetary value corresponding to the identification information of the medium from a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value, as a provisional balance of monetary value used to control the user's exit; An entry / exit control program that causes a computer to execute.

25. When it is determined that the provisional balance of monetary value used to control a user's exit is less than the predetermined fare, the system has a notification unit that outputs at least one of the following to the user who has been granted a payment deferral: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment, based on information regarding the payment deferral of the predetermined fare recorded in a monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value. A notification server characterized by the following features.

26. A notification method that is executed by the notification server, If it is determined that the provisional balance of monetary value used to control a user's exit is less than the predetermined fare, a notification process is performed to output at least one of the following to the user who has been granted a payment deferral: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment, based on information regarding the payment deferral of the predetermined fare recorded in the monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value. A notification method characterized by including the following.

27. A notification procedure that, when it is determined that the provisional balance of monetary value used to control a user's exit is less than the predetermined fare, outputs at least one of the following to the user who has been granted a payment deferral: a notification that a payment deferral has occurred, and a notification urging payment, based on information regarding the payment deferral of the predetermined fare recorded in the monetary value management system that stores the balance of monetary value. A notification program that prompts a computer to execute a command.

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