Methods, systems, and methods of using a storage medium that are performed by a system in which a tangible object is used.

Abstract

This invention provides a method, system, and method of using storage media that allows users to leverage the value of blockchain while experiencing the same user experience as with tangible objects. [Solution] A method performed by a system 100 in which a tangible object is used, wherein a reader 11 reads data for identifying the tangible object value recorded in the blockchain 70 from the storage medium of the tangible object 20, and by referring to the blockchain 70 based on the read data, the tangible object value 72 recorded in the blockchain 70 is identified, and a process is performed using the identified tangible object value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method executed by a system in which a physical object is used, a system, and a method of using a storage medium.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a non-fungible token (NFT) of a blockchain.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a game center or a casino, a game is played by inserting a physical coin or medal, and payouts from the game device are also made in coins or medals. In a casino, physical casino chips, poker chips, etc. are used, and winnings are also transferred in chips.

[0005] Thus, in order to enjoy games in the real world, etc., coins and chips, which are physical objects, are essential elements. On the other hand, the value of a blockchain, such as a blockchain token (fungible token (FT) or non-fungible token (NFT)), has an electronic property value, and it is also conceivable to use these for games and casinos. However, since the value of a blockchain is not a physical object, the same feeling of use as that of a physical object such as a coin or chip cannot be obtained. And this problem can similarly occur in other devices that use physical objects other than coins and chips.

[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to obtain the same feeling of use as that of a physical object while using the value of a blockchain.

[0007] Therefore, the problem that this disclosure aims to solve is to enable the use of blockchain value while providing a user experience similar to that of a tangible object.

[0008] In one aspect, the technology of the Disclosure may include reading data for identifying the value of a tangible object recorded on a blockchain from a storage medium possessed by the tangible object using a reader, referring to the blockchain based on the read data to identify the value of the tangible object recorded on the blockchain, and performing processing using the identified value of the tangible object. The technology of the Disclosure may be implemented, for example, as a method, system, or use of a storage medium performed by a system in which the tangible object is used.

[0009] Further details will be described in the embodiments below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of a storage medium in a tangible object according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the server according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the procedure of the method according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a diagram of non-fungible tokens in a blockchain. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a modified example of data stored in the storage medium according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the procedure for referencing the value recorded in a non-fungible token. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the configuration for changing the ownership of non-fungible tokens. [Figure 10] Figure 10 illustrates the change of ownership of non-fungible tokens associated with the sale of tangible goods. [Figure 11] Figure 11 illustrates the change of ownership of non-fungible tokens associated with the use of tangible objects. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] <1. Overview of the methods, systems, and methods of using storage media implemented by systems that utilize tangible objects>

[0012] (1) A method according to an embodiment may be a method performed by a system in which a tangible object is used. A method according to an embodiment may include reading data for identifying the value of a tangible object recorded on a blockchain from a storage medium of the tangible object using a reader, referring to the blockchain based on the read data to identify the value of the tangible object recorded on the blockchain, and performing a process using the identified value of the tangible object.

[0013] According to the embodiment, when a tangible object is used in the system, a reader reads data from the storage medium of the tangible object to identify the tangible object's value recorded on the blockchain. The system then refers to the blockchain based on the read data to identify the tangible object's value recorded on the blockchain and executes a process that uses the identified tangible object's value. In other words, when the tangible object is used in the system, a process that uses the tangible object's value is executed. Thus, according to this embodiment, the system can be used with a tangible object whose value is recorded on the blockchain. Therefore, by using the tangible object, the tangible object's value on the blockchain can be used, and a similar user experience to that of the tangible object can be obtained while utilizing the tangible object's value on the blockchain.

[0014] (2) Preferably, in the blockchain, multiple nonfungible tokens are set up corresponding to each of the multiple tangible objects. Each of the multiple nonfungible tokens may record the tangible object value corresponding to each of the multiple nonfungible tokens. The data may include an identifier for identifying the nonfungible token in the blockchain that corresponds to the tangible object from which the data was read. Identifying the tangible object value may include referring to the blockchain based on the identifier to identify the tangible object value recorded in the nonfungible token identified by the identifier. In this case, the nonfungible tokens of the blockchain are used to record the tangible object value. Therefore, the tangible object value for each individual tangible object can be managed as multiple nonfungible tokens corresponding to each of the multiple tangible objects. Since the nonfungible tokens of the blockchain are unique, the value of each individual tangible object can be easily managed.

[0015] (3) The value of the tangible object may be a fixed-value property value. In this case, the value of the tangible object is a fixed-value property value, not a fluctuating property value, and such a fixed-value property value is recorded on the blockchain as a value identified by an identifier. Thus, the value of the tangible object itself can be fixed.

[0016] (4) In the blockchain, it is preferable that a plurality of non-fungible tokens corresponding to a plurality of physical objects are set. Each of the plurality of non-fungible tokens may record the physical object value corresponding to each of the plurality of non-fungible tokens. The physical object value may be the property value of a fixed value recorded in the non-fungible token. The data may include an identifier for identifying the non-fungible token corresponding to the physical object from which the data is read among the plurality of non-fungible tokens in the blockchain. Identifying the physical object value may include referring to the blockchain based on the identifier to identify the property value of the fixed value recorded in the non-fungible token identified by the identifier. In this case, the non-fungible token of the blockchain is used for recording the physical object value.

[0017] Unlike fungible tokens, non-fungible tokens have uniqueness. And generally, non-fungible tokens may be the subject of transactions and have a property value that varies according to the market value. However, the physical object value here is not such a variable value but a property value of a fixed value, and such a property value of a fixed value is recorded in the non-fungible token as the value identified by the identifier. Therefore, the value of the physical object itself can be fixed, and the physical object value corresponding to each individual physical object can be managed individually.

[0018] (5) The method may further include changing the owner of the non-fungible token corresponding to the physical object used. In this case, the owner of the non-fungible token can be changed according to the change in the possessor of the physical object accompanying the use of the physical object. Since the owner of the non-fungible token is recorded in the blockchain, the possessor of the physical object can be managed through the record of the owner of the non-fungible token.

[0019] (6) The method may further include the reader obtaining the unique identifier of the storage medium from the storage medium and determining whether the obtained unique identifier is a registered unique identifier registered in advance. It is preferable that the process of using the physical object value is executed when it is determined that the obtained unique identifier is the registered unique identifier. In this case, the use of a storage medium having a unique identifier other than the registered unique identifier registered in advance can be restricted or excluded.

[0020] (7) The process of using the physical object value may include a process of advancing the game. In this case, when the physical object is used, the process of advancing the game is executed.

[0021] (8) The system may include a game device in which the physical object is used. The physical object is preferably a game medium. In this case, the user can enjoy the game by using the game medium in the game device.

[0022] (9) The system according to the embodiment may be a system in which a physical object is used. The system according to the embodiment is configured to execute an operation including: the reader reads data for identifying the physical object value recorded in the blockchain from the storage medium of the physical object, and refers to the blockchain based on the read data to identify the physical object value recorded in the blockchain, and executes a process of using the identified physical object value.

[0023] (10) The method according to the embodiment includes providing a physical object having a storage medium storing data for identifying a physical object value recorded in a blockchain to a user by a vending machine, reading the data stored in the storage medium of the physical object provided to the user by a reader included in a device in which the physical object is used, and the device executing a process of using the physical object value identified based on the read data.

[0024] <2. An example of an overview of the methods, systems, and methods of using storage media performed by systems that utilize tangible objects>

[0025] Figure 1 shows a system 100 according to an embodiment. In the system 100 of this embodiment, tangible objects 20, such as coins, on which value is recorded on the blockchain, are used so that the value, which is digital data recorded on the blockchain, can be used using tangible objects in the real world (real tangible objects). The system 100 may, for example, include one or more devices 10 on which the tangible objects 20 are used. Coins on which value is recorded on the blockchain can be called blockchain real coins. Similarly, tangible objects 20 on which value is recorded on the blockchain can be called blockchain real tangible objects.

[0026] The system 100 shown in Figure 1 is, as an example, a game system used in an arcade. In this case, the device 10 may be one or more game machines 10, 10, 10 installed in a store 900 (commercial facility) such as an arcade. The game system 100 is used by a user U1 to play games. The game system 100 is, as an example, a system for arcade games. The system for arcade games is configured to have at least an arcade game machine 10 as the device 10.

[0027] Arcade games are also called arcade video games or commercial games. Arcade games are installed in facilities such as game centers (game arcades). User U1 can play games by operating arcade game machines in facilities such as game centers.

[0028] In the apparatus 10 according to this embodiment, tangible objects 20 for the apparatus 10, such as coins, medals, or casino chips, are used to operate the apparatus 10. Here, the tangible objects 20 are, for example, game media (amusement media) such as coins, medals, or casino chips. When a user uses the tangible objects 20 in the apparatus 10 according to the method of use of the tangible objects 20 appropriate for the apparatus 10 (for example, inserting coins 20 into the apparatus 10), the user U1 can use the apparatus 10 (for example, play a game).

[0029] The system 100, including device 10, is not limited to a system for a game center, but may also be a system for a casino. In this case, device 10 may be casino equipment such as slot machines, roulette machines, poker tables, and other casino game devices.

[0030] Furthermore, the device 10 is not limited to a game or casino device, but may be a device such as a vending machine that dispenses goods when a tangible object 20 such as a coin is inserted. In other words, the device 10 may be a device that provides some kind of goods to user U1, in which case the tangible object 20 may be used by user U1 by inserting it into the device 10 in order to obtain the goods.

[0031] Thus, in this embodiment, the device 10 only needs to be a device that operates when a tangible object 20 is used. The tangible object 20 has value in that it can be used by user U1 in the device 10.

[0032] As shown in Figure 2, in the case of a device 10 into which tangible objects 20 are inserted, the device 10 may be equipped with an input port 12 for the tangible objects 20. The input port 12 may be configured to allow the insertion of tangible objects 20 one at a time, or it may be configured to allow the insertion of multiple tangible objects 20 simultaneously. The method of using the tangible objects 20 in the device 10 is not limited to inserting them into the input port 12, but may also be used in other ways, such as when a user U1 places casino chips 20 on a poker table 10, or by placing the tangible objects 20 on the device 10.

[0033] The device 10 may include a passage 15 formed within the device 10 for the passage of tangible objects 20, and a storage section 16 for storing the tangible objects 20 that have passed through the passage 15 within the device 10. The tangible objects 20 inserted from the input port 12 pass through the passage 15 and are stored in the storage section 16. The stored tangible objects 20 may be provided again from the device 10 to the user U1 as needed, or they may be collected by the store and provided to the user U1 by a vending machine 81 or the like, as described later.

[0034] The device 10 may, for example, include an operation button 13 for receiving input from user U1. A device 10 equipped with an operation button 13 can receive operations from the user for using the device 10, in addition to actions such as inserting a tangible object 20. The operation button 13 may include, for example, a game start operation button in a game device 10. In this case, for example, when the user inserts a tangible object 20 and presses the game start operation button 13, the game device 10 can start executing the process to advance the game. Note that the configuration for receiving input operations is not limited to an operation button 13; it may be any other input interface such as a touch panel, and if a configuration for receiving input from user U1 is not necessary, it may be omitted.

[0035] Device 10 is configured, for example, with a computer. Device 10 is a game device configured, for example, with a computer. The computer in device 10 comprises a processor 10A and a storage device 10B. The storage device 10B is connected to the processor 10A. The processor 10A is, for example, a CPU, GPU, or other type of processor. The storage device 10B comprises, for example, a primary storage device and a secondary storage device. The primary storage device is, for example, RAM. The secondary storage device is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). The storage device 10B contains a computer program 10C executed by the processor 10A. The processor reads and executes the computer program 10C stored in the storage device 10B. The computer program 10C has program code that indicates instructions for causing the computer to perform various processes. The computer program may include instructions for processes 10D (processes using the tangible object value 10D) that are performed when a tangible object 20 is used in device 10.

[0036] A computer program is, for example, a game program. The game program causes the computer to execute processes that advance the game. The processes 10D executed by the use of tangible objects 20 in the device 10 may include processes that advance the game. The processes that advance the game are started when a sufficient number of tangible objects 20 are used in the device 10 (for example, coins 20 are inserted). During gameplay, the game device 10, for example, displays game images on a display provided by the game device 10, accepts game input from user U1, and advances the game.

[0037] A tangible object 20 has a value set for use in the device 10, etc. This value is, for example, the value set for a coin, which is a tangible object 20, and this value is the value required to use the device 10. For example, if the device 10 is a game machine where one game can be played by inserting one coin 20, then one coin 20 has a value equivalent to the cost of one game in the device 10. If the device 10 is a game machine where one game can be played by inserting five coins 20, then one coin 20 has a value equivalent to 1 / 5 of the cost of one game. The magnitude of the tangible object's value can be expressed in an appropriate unit.

[0038] The value of a tangible object can be a fixed value. In other words, the value of a tangible object can be a fixed property value.

[0039] The value set for the tangible object 20 (a fixed value for the tangible object) can be displayed, for example, on the surface of the tangible object 20 in a way that allows a human being to visually identify the magnitude of the value. The value displayed on the surface of the tangible object 20 can be formed, for example, by printing, engraving, or molding. The value displayed on the surface of the tangible object 20 may indicate the magnitude of the value by numbers, or it may indicate the magnitude of the value by the color or shape of the tangible object 20.

[0040] The value set for the tangible object 20 (tangible object value) is identifiable by the device 10 (machine-identifiable). In order for the device 10 to identify the tangible object value, the tangible object 20 has a storage medium 41 on which data is stored. The storage medium 41 may be embedded inside the tangible object 20 or provided on the surface of the tangible object 20.

[0041] Figure 3 shows an example of a storage medium. The storage medium 41 includes, for example, an integrated circuit (IC). The integrated circuit 41 may be, for example, an integrated circuit module (IC module) that includes a memory for storing data and is configured to communicate data with the outside. The integrated circuit module 41 is sometimes called an integrated circuit tag (IC tag).

[0042] The integrated circuit 41 capable of communicating with the outside may be contact-type or non-contact-type. The integrated circuit 41 may be an active type with a built-in battery or a passive type without a built-in battery.

[0043] The integrated circuit 41 includes a memory 414 for storing data. The memory 414 includes a first memory 414A which contains a unique identifier 415. The first memory 414A is, for example, a read-only memory (ROM). Preferably, the unique identifier 415 of the integrated circuit 41 is stored in the read-only memory.

[0044] The unique identifier 415 of the integrated circuit 41 is preferably a non-rewritable unique identifier assigned to the integrated circuit 41 by the manufacturer of the integrated circuit 41. The unique identifier 415 (UID) of the integrated circuit 41 is used to identify the integrated circuit 41 and distinguish it from other integrated circuits. The unique identifier 415 (UID) assigned to the integrated circuit 41 by the manufacturer is written to the memory 414, for example, during the manufacturing of the integrated circuit 41.

[0045] Memory 414 may include a second memory 414B. The second memory 414B may be capable of writing appropriate data. As an example, the second memory 414B shown in Figure 3 contains a tangible object value identifier 71 for identifying the tangible object value described later.

[0046] The aforementioned contactless IC module is also called a radio frequency identification (RFID) device. The storage medium 41 illustrated in Figure 3 is an RFID device. The RFID device transmits the data 415,71 recorded in its memory to an external wireless communication device (reader 11, described later) via wireless communication. The external wireless communication device receives the data transmitted from the RFID device. When the RFID device takes the form of a tag, it is sometimes called an RFID tag.

[0047] A radio frequency identification (RFID) device may also be a near-field communication (NFC) device. Preferably, the NFC communication conforms to the NFC standard. NFC is, for example, a wireless communication using the 13.56 MHz frequency band. Preferably, the communication range of the NFC is 10 cm or less. When a near-field communication (NFC) device takes the form of a tag, it may be called an NFC tag.

[0048] The storage medium 41 is not limited to one equipped with an integrated circuit, but may be other storage media. The storage medium may also be a machine-readable code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code.

[0049] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the device 10 includes a reader 11 for reading data from the storage medium 41. The reader 11 is configured, for example, to include the aforementioned external wireless communication device that reads data wirelessly without contact. The reader 11 for reading data from the storage medium 41 may be provided in a location other than the device 10, if necessary.

[0050] As shown in Figure 2, the reader 11 is positioned at a predetermined reading location within the device 10 to read data from the storage medium 41 of a tangible object 20 as it passes through a passage 15 within the device 10. The tangible object 20, having passed through the passage 15 and reached the reading location, comes into close proximity to the reader 11, and the data contained in the storage medium 41 of the tangible object 20 is read by the reader 11. The read data is provided to the processor 10A. The processor 10A performs processing 10D based on the provided data. After the data has been read by the reader 11, the tangible object 20 is further stored in the storage unit 16, passing through the passage 15.

[0051] The data stored in the storage medium 41 may include data 71 for the device 10, etc., to identify the value 72 (tangible object value) set in the tangible object 20 equipped with the storage medium 41. In this embodiment, the tangible object value 72 of each of the multiple tangible objects 20 is associated with each of the multiple tangible objects 20 and recorded in the blockchain 70 for each individual tangible object 20.

[0052] As shown in Figure 3, the data stored in the storage medium 41 may include the aforementioned tangible object value identifiers 71 (id1, id2 in Figure 2) as data 71 for identifying the tangible object value 72. The identifier 71 stored in the storage medium 41 may be considered as an identifier for identifying each of the multiple tangible object values ​​72 recorded in the blockchain 70 (tangible object value identifier), or as an identifier for identifying each of the multiple tangible objects 20 (tangible object identifier). In other words, the identifier 71 may be an identifier for the tangible object value 72, or an identifier for the tangible object 20. Furthermore, the tangible object value 72 may be considered to be associated with the identifier 71, or as being associated with the tangible object 20.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2, each of the multiple tangible objects 20A and 20B has a different identifier (id1, id2), and the blockchain 70 records the value 72 (v1) of each tangible object 20A and 20B associated with the identifier 71 (id1, id2) assigned to that object.

[0054] The blockchain 70, on which Value 72 and other data are recorded, is comprised of a P2P (Peer to Peer) computer network. Device 10 can access the blockchain via a network 60 such as the internet. In blockchain 70, data is recorded on a distributed ledger. By recording Value 72 data on blockchain 70, tampering with Value 72 and other data becomes virtually impossible, thereby increasing the reliability and transparency of the recorded data.

[0055] As an example, in the blockchain 70 shown in Figure 2, the identifier id1 of a tangible object 20A records v1 as the value, and the identifier id2 of another tangible object 20B records v1 as the value 72. In the blockchain 70, since the value 72 is recorded for each identifier 71 (v1, v2) corresponding to each of the multiple tangible objects 20A and 20B, even if the values ​​72 are of the same size, they can be distinguished as different values ​​72, and each value 72 corresponding to each of the multiple tangible objects can be made unique (non-fungible). Having each value 72 unique (non-fungible) makes it possible to manage which value 72 was used in the device 10, which is preferable.

[0056] Thus, in this embodiment, for example, each tangible object 20 has a unique identifier 71, regardless of whether the tangible object values ​​of each of the multiple tangible objects 20 are the same or different. Therefore, even when multiple tangible objects 20 with the same tangible object value are used in the device 10, it is possible to identify which tangible object 20 was used and which tangible object value 72 was used. Thus, it becomes possible to manage each individual tangible object 20 and tangible object value 72.

[0057] The processor 10A of device 10 uses a reader 11 provided by device 10 to read data (identifier 71) for identifying the value of a tangible object recorded in blockchain 70 from the storage medium 41A of the tangible object 20A. The processor 10A can identify the value of a tangible object 72 (value: v1) recorded in blockchain by referring to blockchain 70 based on the identifier 71 (identifier: id1) read from the tangible object 20A. In addition, device 10 can identify the value of a tangible object 72 (value: v1) recorded in blockchain by referring to blockchain 70 based on the identifier 71 (identifier: id2) read from the storage medium 41B of another tangible object 20B.

[0058] The processor 10A identifies the tangible value 72 of the input tangible object 20, and if it determines that the tangible value 72 is the quantity (a predetermined quantity) required to execute the process 10D in the device 10, it executes the process 10D (for example, the process of advancing the game; the process of using the tangible value).

[0059] As shown in Figure 1, the system 100 may include a vending machine 81 (a device for providing tangible objects 20) that provides tangible objects 20 to user U1. The vending machine 81 is installed, for example, in a store 900 such as an arcade. When user U1 performs a payment operation at the vending machine 81 using an appropriate payment method such as inserting cash, paying with a credit card, or paying with electronic money, the vending machine 81 provides user U1 with tangible objects 20 such as coins.

[0060] The vending machine 81 may be installed as a separate device from the apparatus 10. However, the vending machine 81 may also be provided within the apparatus 10.

[0061] System 100 may include a server 51. Server 51 can communicate with device 10 via network 60. Server 51 can also communicate with vending machine 81 via network 60. Server 51 can also access blockchain 70 via network 60.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4, the server 51 may be composed of a computer comprising a processor 51A and a storage device 51B. The storage device 51B is connected to the processor 51A. The processor 51A is, for example, a CPU, GPU, or other type of processor. The storage device 51B comprises, for example, a primary storage device and a secondary storage device. The primary storage device is, for example, RAM. The secondary storage device is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). The storage device 51B contains a computer program 51C that is executed by the processor 51A. The processor 51A reads and executes the computer program 51C stored in the storage device 51B. The computer program 51C has program code that indicates instructions to cause the computer to perform various processes, such as UID determination 55, which will be described later.

[0063] The storage device 51B may include a unique identifier table 51D. Multiple unique identifiers 415 may be registered in the unique identifier table 51D. The unique identifier table 51D registers the unique identifiers 415 of NFC tags (storage mediums 41) used in the system 100 according to this embodiment. In other words, NFC tags (storage mediums 41) whose unique identifiers 415 are registered in the unique identifier table 51D can be used in the system 100, while other NFC tags (storage mediums 41), even if they have a tangible value identifier, can be made unusable in the system 100 (device 10, etc.). Note that NFC tags (storage mediums 41) whose unique identifiers 415 are not registered in the unique identifier table 51D may also be usable in the system 100.

[0064] The data (tangible object value identifier) ​​stored in the storage medium 41 of a tangible object 20 is digital data and therefore can be duplicated. Consequently, data stored in the storage medium 41 of one tangible object 20 may be duplicated in the storage medium of another tangible object 20, and that other tangible object 20 may be used in system 100. However, there are cases where the use of that other tangible object 20 should be restricted. In such cases, the unique identifier (UID) of the storage medium 41 of the tangible object 20 may be used. System 100 obtains the unique identifier 415 of the storage medium 41 of the tangible object 20 from the storage medium 41 using the reader 11, and determines whether the obtained unique identifier 415 is a registered unique identifier that has been previously registered in system 100. If the obtained unique identifier 415 is not a registered unique identifier, system 100 can restrict the use of that tangible object 20.

[0065] In Figure 4, as an example, five different unique identifiers 415, "00:00:00:00:00:0a", "00:00:00:00:00:0b", "00:00:00:00:00:0c", "00:00:00:00:00:0d", and "00:00:00:00:00:0e", are registered in the unique identifier table 51D.

[0066] Table 51D may, for example, contain tangible object value identifiers associated with unique identifier 415. In Figure 4, identifier "id1" is associated with "00:00:00:00:00:0a". Similarly, identifier "id2" is associated with "00:00:00:00:00:0b". Identifier "id3" is associated with "00:00:00:00:00:0d" is associated with identifier "id4". Identifier "id5" is associated with "00:00:00:00:00:0e".

[0067] Because Table 51D contains the correspondence between the unique identifier 415 and the tangible object value identifier, the system (for example, the server 51 or device 10) can determine whether the combination of the unique identifier 415 and the tangible object value identifier obtained from the NFC tag (storage medium 41) is correct (a valid combination) (UID determination 55).

[0068] In one embodiment, the system 100 can determine whether the combination of the unique identifier 415 and the tangible object value identifier is correct (a valid combination) (UID determination 55). In other words, the system 100 performs a determination (UID determination 55) based on the unique identifier of the tangible object 20 used in the device 10, as needed.

[0069] For example, even if the tangible object value identifier recorded on the storage medium 41 of a legitimate tangible object 20 dedicated to a certain store 900 is copied to the storage medium 41 of a forged, unauthorized tangible object 20, the combination of the unique identifier of the storage medium 41 of the unauthorized tangible object 20 and the copied tangible object value identifier does not exist in table 51D. Therefore, the use of the unauthorized tangible object 20 can be excluded or restricted. Furthermore, even if another tangible object value identifier (for example, an identifier for a higher tangible object value) is illegally written to the storage medium 41 of a legitimate tangible object 20, the use of that tangible object 20 can be excluded or restricted.

[0070] Note that the UID determination step 55 may be omitted.

[0071] Figure 5 shows an example of the procedure from when user U1 puts a tangible object 20 into the device until the device 10 performs the process of using value 72.

[0072] In step S501, user U1 (for example, a user who wants to play a game on device 10) inserts a tangible object 20 into device 10 through the input slot 12. The inserted tangible object 20 moves through the passage 15 inside device 10 to the reading position by the reader 11 (step S511). The reader 11 of device 10 then reads the data stored in the storage medium 41 (step S521). The data to be read is, for example, the unique identifier 415 of the storage medium 41 and the tangible object value identifier 71 (see Figure 3). The tangible object 20, from which the data of the storage medium 41 has been read, is stored in the storage unit 16 (see Figure 2) (step S512).

[0073] When device 10 performs the reading in step S521, it queries server 51 for the tangible value in order to identify the tangible value corresponding to the inserted tangible object 20 (step S522). To query for the tangible value, device 10 sends the data read in step S521 (for example, the unique identifier 415 and the tangible value identifier 71) to server 51.

[0074] When server 51 receives a query for the value of a tangible object, it performs a UID determination 55. For the UID determination, server 51 refers to the unique identifier table 51D based on the tangible identifier 415 obtained from device 10. Server 51 determines whether the unique identifier 415 obtained from device 10 is a registered unique identifier registered in the unique identifier table 51D.

[0075] If Server 51 determines that the acquired unique identifier 415 is a registered unique identifier registered in the unique identifier table 51D (meaning the tangible object 20 is genuine), it proceeds to step S532 to acquire the tangible object value. If Server 51 determines that the acquired unique identifier 415 is not a registered unique identifier registered in the unique identifier table 51D (meaning the tangible object 20 is not genuine), it sends an error notification to Device 10 indicating that the tangible object 20 from which the data was read is a counterfeit product. Upon receiving the error notification, Device 10 does not execute the process 10D that uses the tangible object value, but instead performs error processing such as informing the user that the tangible object 20 cannot be used.

[0076] In addition, in the UID determination 55 of step S531, the server 51 may determine whether the tangible object 20 is a genuine product by referring to the unique identifier table 51D based on the unique identifier 415 and tangible object value identifier 71 obtained from the device 10.

[0077] In step S532, the server 51 refers to the blockchain 70 based on the tangible object value identifier 71 obtained from the device 10 in order to acquire the tangible object value. Through this referencing, the server 51 acquires the tangible object value corresponding to the tangible object 20 from the blockchain 70 (step S533). For example, if the acquired tangible object value identifier 71 is identifier id1 as shown in Figure 2, then v1 is acquired as the tangible object value 72.

[0078] In step S534, the server 51 transmits the acquired tangible object value 72 to the device 10. As a result, the device 10 can obtain the tangible object value corresponding to the tangible object 20 used (step S523).

[0079] The steps from step S531 to step S533 may be performed in the device 10 or another device.

[0080] The device 10, having obtained the tangible object value, accepts an input operation from user U1 to start a process 10D that uses the value, as needed (step S524). The input operation is, for example, the operation of the operation button 13 for starting a game. The device 10 then executes a process 10D that uses the value (for example, a process that advances the game) (step S525). As a result, user U1, using the tangible object 20, can enjoy a game or the like.

[0081] Figures 6 to 8 show the system 100 according to the first modified example. Regarding the first modified example, for points not specifically explained, please refer to Figures 1 to 7 and their explanations.

[0082] In the first modified example, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) of Blockchain 70 are used to record the value of tangible assets. NFTs are a type of token that can be traded on the blockchain. The tokens that can be traded on Blockchain 70 are fungible tokens (FTs) and NFTs. FTs are fungible tokens, while NFTs are non-fungible tokens.

[0083] Each NFT78 has a token identifier (NFT identifier; NFT-ID) to distinguish it from other NFT78s. Figure 6 shows, as an example, NFT78A with token identifier "Nft_id1", NFT78B with token identifier "Nft_id2", NFT78C with token identifier "Nft_id3", NFT78D with token identifier "Nft_id4", and NFT78E with token identifier "Nft_id5".

[0084] The transaction history of NFT78 is recorded on Blockchain 70. The NFT owner recorded on the blockchain changes with each NFT78 transaction (sending an NFT78). Blockchain 70 records the owner and ownership history of NFT78.

[0085] NFT78 is, for example, a token issued in accordance with the Ethereum Request for Comments (ERC)721 standard. NFTs that comply with the ERC721 standard are called ERC721 tokens. Blockchains on which ERC721 tokens can be used are, for example, blockchains that are compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). Blockchains that are compatible with the EVM can also simply be called "blockchains compatible with Ethereum." Blockchains compatible with Ethereum comply with the ERC721 standard, and can conduct transactions involving ERC721 tokens and utilize ERC71 tokens.

[0086] EVM-compatible blockchains include, for example, Ethereum, Polygon, Optimism, Arbitrum, and Celo.

[0087] Blockchain 70 is configured with blockchain addresses 75A, 75B, and 75C, which represent accounts for owning tokens such as NFTs 78. Addresses 75A, 75B, and 75C may be configured, for example, as addresses for a store where device 10 is installed (store addresses). Addresses 75A, 75B, and 75C may also be configured as addresses for user U1 (user addresses). These addresses 75A, 75B, and 75C are, for example, wallet addresses. These addresses 75A, 75B, and 75C are, for example, Externally Owned Accounts (EOAs). These addresses 75A, 75B, and 75C may also be contract addresses.

[0088] NFT78 is recorded on blockchain 70, associated with the addresses 75A, 75B, and 75C of its owners. For example, in the example in Figure 6, the owners of the three NFT78A, NFT78B, and NFT78C are the person with account 75A at wallet address 0x1111. Also, the owners of the two NFT78D and NFT78E are the person with account 75B at wallet address 0x2222. In the example in Figure 6, account 75C at wallet address 0x3333 may also own tokens such as NFT78.

[0089] In one embodiment, for example, in blockchain 70, multiple NFTs 78A, 78B, 78C, 78D, and 78E are set up, each corresponding to a plurality of tangible objects 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, and 20E. In other words, each tangible object 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, and 20E is associated with one NFT 78A, 78B, 78C, 78D, and 78E on a one-to-one basis. Therefore, NFTs 78A, 78B, 78C, 78D, and 78E have the role of recording data (such as the value of the tangible object) related to each tangible object 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, and 20E in the blockchain. By using NFTs 78 to record data (such as the value of the tangible object) related to each tangible object 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, and 20E, it is preferable to utilize the mechanism related to NFTs 78 in blockchain 70.

[0090] As shown in Figure 6, each of the multiple NFT78s records a tangible object value 72 corresponding to each of the multiple NFT78s (the tangible object value of the tangible object 20 corresponding to each NFT78). For example, NFT78A records v1, which is the tangible object value 72 of tangible object 20A. Similarly, NFT78B records v1, which is the tangible object value 72 of tangible object 20B, NFT78C records v2, which is the tangible object value 72 of tangible object 20C, NFT78D records v2, which is the tangible object value 72 of tangible object 20D, NFT78D records v3, which is the tangible object value 72 of tangible object 20D, and NFT78E records v3, which is the tangible object value 72 of tangible object 20E.

[0091] Thus, in this first modified example, NFTs 78 on blockchain 70 are used to record the tangible object value 72. Therefore, the tangible object value 72 of each individual tangible object 20 can be managed by multiple NFTs 78 corresponding to each of the multiple tangible objects 20. Since each NFT 78 is unique and managed by a mechanism for NFTs 78 that is pre-installed in blockchain 70 itself, which is capable of handling NFTs 78, the management of the tangible object value 72 corresponding to each individual tangible object 20 becomes easy.

[0092] If the tangible value 72 is recorded in the NFT 78, the data stored in the storage medium 41 to identify the tangible value 72 (for example, the tangible value identifier 71 in Figure 3) may be an identifier 416 (token identifier; NFT identifier) ​​for identifying the NFT 78 on which the tangible value 72 is recorded.

[0093] Figure 7 shows an example of the memory 414 of the storage medium 41 for the first modified example. Of the memory 414, the first memory 414A records the unique identifier 415 of the storage medium, and the second memory 414B records an identifier 416 (token identifier) ​​for identifying the NFT 78 on which the tangible value 72 is recorded.

[0094] In this case, system 100 can identify the tangible value 72 (fixed property value) recorded in the NFT 78 identified by identifier 416 by referring to blockchain 70 based on identifier 416.

[0095] Here, NFT78 possesses uniqueness but has a fixed property value. Such a fixed property value is recorded in NFT78 as the tangible object value 72. Therefore, the value of the tangible object 20 itself (tangible object value 72) can be fixed, and the tangible object value 72 corresponding to each individual tangible object 20 can be managed individually.

[0096] As shown in Figure 8, in the first modified example, in step S521 (see Figure 5), the unique identifier 415 and the token identifier 416 stored in the storage medium 41 are read from the storage medium 41.

[0097] In step S522, the device 10 sends the unique identifier 415 and the token identifier 416, which were read in step S521, to the server 51 in order to inquire about the tangible object value. The device 10 also sends the address (0x1111) of the store 900 where the device 10 is installed to the server 51. Note that if the server 51 already knows the address (0x1111), the address does not need to be sent to the server 51.

[0098] In step S532, the server 51 identifies and references the NFT78 on which the tangible value 72 corresponding to the tangible object 20 is recorded, based on the token identifier 416 of the NFT78 on which the tangible value 72 is recorded and the blockchain address (0x1111) that owns that NFT78, in order to reference the tangible value 72 recorded on the blockchain 70. By referencing the NFT78, the server 51 retrieves the tangible value recorded on that NFT78 from the blockchain 70.

[0099] In step S534, the server 51 transmits the acquired tangible object value 72 to the device 10. This allows the device 10 to obtain the tangible object value corresponding to the tangible object 20 used.

[0100] Figures 9 to 11 show an example of changing the owner of NFT 78 in the first modified system 100. In this example, the NFT owner recorded in blockchain 70 is changed in accordance with the change in the possessor (or owner) of the corresponding tangible object 20. This allows the possessor of the tangible object 20 and its changes to be recorded in blockchain 70 as the owner and ownership history of NFT 78.

[0101] Changes in the possessor of the tangible object 20 occur, for example, when the tangible object 20 is used in the device 10. Before the use of the tangible object 20, the possessor of the tangible object 20 is user U1, and after the use of the tangible object, the possessor of the tangible object is store 900.

[0102] Furthermore, changes in the possession of a tangible object occur when the tangible object 20 is provided from the store 900 to user U1. The provision of the tangible object 20 from the store 900 to user U1 is carried out, for example, by selling the tangible object 20 through a vending machine 81. Alternatively, the provision of the tangible object 20 from the store 900 to user U1 can also be carried out by dispensing the value that user U1 has earned in the game as the tangible object 20 from the game device 10.

[0103] Before the provision of the tangible object 20, the possessor of the tangible object 20 is store 900, and after the provision of the tangible object 20, the possessor of the tangible object 20 is user U1. Since the tangible object 20 is used repeatedly so that it is provided again to various users U1 after being used by user U1, the possessor of the tangible object 20 may change between user U1 and store 900.

[0104] Figure 10 shows the ownership of NFT78 before and after the provision of tangible objects 20. Here, user U1 has user account 75D with address 0x9999, and store 900 has store account 75A with address 0x1111. Furthermore, before the provision of tangible objects 20, store 900 is assumed to possess multiple tangible objects 20 and own NFT78A, 78B, and 78C corresponding to those tangible objects 20. The provision of tangible objects 20 is carried out, for example, as a sale of tangible objects 20 at a vending machine 81.

[0105] Here, it is assumed that three tangible objects 20 are sold to user U1 by the vending machine 81. When the tangible objects 20 are sold to user U1 by the vending machine 81, the ownership of the NFTs 78A, 78B, and 78C corresponding to the three tangible objects 20 is changed to user U1 (address: 0x9999).

[0106] When the vending machine 81 provides a tangible object 20 to user U1, it reads the token identifier of the provided tangible object 20 using a reader provided by the vending machine 81, and performs an operation on blockchain 70 to send NFTs 78A, 78B, and 78C (NFTs corresponding to the provided tangible object 20) identified by the read token identifier to user U1's address 0x9999. Once NFTs 78A, 78B, and 78C are sent to user U1's address 0x9999, blockchain 70 records 0x9999 as the new NFT owner address. As a result, when the tangible object 20 is provided to user U1, the owner of the NFTs 78 corresponding to those tangible objects 20 changes.

[0107] The address of user U1 (0x9999) is obtained by the vending machine 81 from a user device, such as user U1's terminal 31, via wireless communication or the like. The provision of the tangible object 20 may be performed by device 10. Device 10 can operate in the same way as the vending machine 81. In addition, the operation to transmit the NFT 78 may be performed by another device in the system 100, such as server 51.

[0108] Figure 11 shows the ownership of the NFT78 before and after the use of the tangible object 20. Before the use of the tangible object 20, user U1 is assumed to possess multiple tangible objects 20 and own the NFT78A, 78B, and 78C corresponding to those tangible objects 20. The use of the tangible object 20 is initiated, for example, by inserting the tangible object 20 into the device 10.

[0109] Here, one tangible object 20 is assumed to be used in the device 10. When one tangible object 20 is sold to user U1, the owner of the NFT78A corresponding to that tangible object 20 is changed from user U1 (address: 0x9999) to store 900 (address: 0x1111).

[0110] When a tangible object 20 is placed into the device 10, the device 10 performs an operation on the blockchain 70 to send the NFT 78A corresponding to the tangible object 20 to the address 0x1111 of the store 900. When the NFT 78A is sent to the address 0x1111 of the store 900, the blockchain 70 records 0x1111 as the new NFT owner address. As a result, the owner of the NFT 78 corresponding to the tangible object 20 changes because the tangible object 20 has been used and the store 900 has become the possessor of the tangible object 20.

[0111] The address of user U1 (0x9999) is obtained by device 10, for example, from user device U1's terminal 31 via wireless communication. If an electronic signature using user U1's private key is required for the transmission of NFT78, the electronic signature is performed using user device U1's terminal 31. Furthermore, the operation to transmit NFT78 may be performed by another device in system 100, such as server 51, rather than by device 10.

[0112] In the first modified example, the NFT owner recorded on blockchain 70 may remain fixed and unchangeable even if the possessor (or owner) of the corresponding tangible object 20 changes. In this case, the owner of the NFT 78 could be, for example, the store 900 where the device 10 is installed.

[0113] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0114] 10: Equipment 10A: Processor 10B: Storage device 10C: Computer program 10D: Processing 11: Reader 12: Inlet 13: Operation Buttons 15: Passageway 16: Storage section 20: Tangible objects 20A: Tangible object 20B: Tangible object 20C: Tangible object 20D: Tangible object 20E: Tangible object 31: Terminal 41:Storage medium 41A:Storage medium 41B:Storage medium 51: Server 51A: Processor 51B: Storage device 51C: Computer program 51D: Unique Identifier Table 55:UID determination 60: Network 70: Blockchain 71: Tangible object value identifier 72: Value of tangible objects 75A: Address 75A: Blockchain address 75B: Address 75C: Address 75D: User Account 78: Non-fungible tokens 78A: Non-fungible token 78B: Non-fungible token 78C: Non-fungible token 78D: Non-fungible token 78E: Non-fungible token 81: Vending Machine 100: System 411: Antenna 412: Radio circuit 413: Controller 414: Memory 414A: Memory No. 1 414B: Second memory 415: Unique identifier 416: Token identifier 900: Stores U1: User

Claims

1. A method performed by a system in which a tangible object is used, Data for identifying the value of a tangible object recorded on the blockchain is read from the storage medium of the tangible object by a reader. By referring to the blockchain based on the data read, the tangible value recorded on the blockchain is identified. Perform a process using the identified tangible object value. A method performed by a system in which a tangible object is used, comprising the following:

2. In the aforementioned blockchain, multiple non-fungible tokens are set up, each corresponding to a multiple tangible object. Each of the aforementioned non-fungible tokens has the tangible value corresponding to each of the aforementioned non-fungible tokens recorded on it. The data includes an identifier for identifying the non-fungible token among the plurality of non-fungible tokens in the blockchain that corresponds to the tangible object from which the data was read. Identifying the tangible value includes identifying the tangible value recorded in the non-fungible token identified by the identifier by referring to the blockchain based on the identifier. The method according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned tangible value is a fixed property value. The method according to claim 1.

4. In the aforementioned blockchain, multiple non-fungible tokens are set up, each corresponding to a multiple tangible object. Each of the aforementioned non-fungible tokens has the tangible value corresponding to each of the aforementioned non-fungible tokens recorded on it. The aforementioned tangible value is a fixed property value recorded in the non-fungible token. The data includes an identifier for identifying the non-fungible token among the plurality of non-fungible tokens in the blockchain that corresponds to the tangible object from which the data was read. Identifying the tangible value includes identifying the fixed value of the property recorded in the non-fungible token identified by the identifier by referring to the blockchain based on the identifier. The method according to claim 1.

5. Change the ownership of the non-fungible tokens corresponding to the tangible object used. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the above.

6. The reader obtains the unique identifier of the storage medium from the storage medium, The system further includes determining whether the acquired unique identifier is a registered unique identifier that has been registered in advance. The process using the tangible value is performed when it is determined that the acquired unique identifier is the registered unique identifier. The method according to claim 1.

7. The process using the aforementioned tangible object value includes a process that advances the game, The method according to claim 1.

8. The system includes a game device in which the tangible object is used. The aforementioned tangible object is a game medium. The method according to claim 7.

9. A system in which tangible objects are used, Data for identifying the value of a tangible object recorded on the blockchain is read from the storage medium of the tangible object by a reader. By referring to the blockchain based on the data read, the tangible value recorded on the blockchain is identified. Perform a process using the identified tangible object value. A system configured to perform actions that include the following.

10. We provide users with tangible objects that have a storage medium containing data for identifying the value of tangible objects recorded on the blockchain. The data stored in the storage medium of the tangible object provided to the user is read by a reader provided in the device on which the tangible object is used. The device performs processing using the tangible object value identified based on the data read. A method of using a storage medium that includes the following features.

11. The provision of the tangible object to the user is carried out by a vending machine. A method for using the storage medium described in claim 10.

Images