Information processing systems and novelty items

Abstract

We provide an information processing system and novelty items used with it that enhance advertising effectiveness and increase consumer service utilization rates. [Solution] In the information processing system, the service user processing device (user terminal device) owned by the service user has a reading unit that reads a code symbol encoding access information for accessing service provision information relating to the service provider, an output unit that outputs service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit into which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input. The service provider processing device (provider terminal device) that has information of the service provider has a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information, and a storage unit that stores the service usage information. The novelty item is attached to a hanger and has a code symbol that encodes access information generated by the generation unit attached to it.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing system that provides services to consumers using novelties, and novelties used therein.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in corporate advertising activities, novelties printed with corporate names and product names have been distributed to consumers. Common novelties include a wide variety such as pens, cups, memo papers, wet tissues, etc. These novelties are considered to be more likely to attract consumers' attention than flyers and pamphlets, and are said to have a high advertising effect.

[0003] On the other hand, simply printing a corporate name or product name on a novelty has a problem that the amount of information that can be transmitted is limited, and it is difficult to progress to the next stage as consumer behavior. Therefore, a method has been adopted in which a two-dimensional code is attached to the packaging of the novelty or the novelty itself, and the consumer's mobile terminal is made to read the two-dimensional code. As a result, consumers can easily access a website on which corporate information and product information are posted and obtain more information.

[0004] For example, in Patent Document 1, a business card-type novelty is disclosed. A two-dimensional code is attached to the novelty, and the two-dimensional code stores the URL of the website of the company to which the novelty distributor belongs, etc. The recipient of the novelty can access the company's website by photographing the two-dimensional code using a camera equipped on a smartphone.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0006] However, the aforementioned promotional items have a problem in that they are either quickly discarded or used infrequently, resulting in little advertising effect. Furthermore, even if they are not immediately discarded, repeated use of the promotional items can cause the printed surface of the QR code to become dirty or faded, rendering the QR code unreadable. For this reason, simply distributing promotional items with QR codes is insufficient as a sales strategy utilizing promotional items.

[0007] This disclosure is made in view of these challenges, and its purpose is to provide an information processing system that can enhance advertising effectiveness and increase consumer service utilization rates, as well as novelty items used therein. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an information processing system is provided comprising: a service user processing device owned by a service user; a service provider processing device having information of a service provider; and a novelty item with a code symbol attached, wherein the service user processing device has a reading unit that reads the code symbol which encodes access information for accessing service provision information relating to the service provider; an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information; and an input unit into which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input; the service provider processing device has a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information; and a storage unit that stores the service usage information; and the novelty item is attached to a hanger.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an information processing system is provided comprising: a service user processing device owned by a service user; a service provider processing device having information of a service provider; and a novelty item with a code symbol attached, wherein the service user processing device has a reading unit that reads the code symbol which encodes access information for accessing service provision information relating to the service provider; an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information; and an input unit into which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input; the service provider processing device has a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information; and a storage unit that stores the service usage information; and the novelty item consists of a sheet material having a deodorizing function.

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a novelty item is provided which is attached to a hanger and is made of a sheet material having a deodorizing function, and is used in an information processing system comprising: a novelty item with a code symbol attached, which is attached to a hanger and is made of a sheet material having a deodorizing function and is used in an information processing system which comprises: a reading unit that reads the code symbol which encodes access information for accessing service provision information relating to a service provider; an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information; and an input unit into which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input; a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information; and a storage unit that stores the service usage information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an information processing system and novelty items used therein that can enhance advertising effectiveness and improve consumer service utilization rates.

[0012] The effects described above are merely illustrative for the sake of explanation, and the effects relating to this disclosure are not limited to those described above. In addition to the effects described above, any other effects described herein may be achieved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the provider terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a user terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This block diagram shows the electrical configuration of the server device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a functional block diagram of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6(a) is a schematic diagram showing the deodorizing sheet according to the first embodiment, and Figure 6(b) is a schematic diagram showing the state of use of the deodorizing sheet according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the information processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a functional block diagram of the information processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a data table stored in the provider terminal device according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, an information processing system according to the present disclosure and a deodorizing sheet which is a novelty used therein will be described in detail. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the content described below, and can be arbitrarily modified and implemented without changing the gist thereof. Also, the drawings used in each embodiment schematically show the information processing system according to the present disclosure and the deodorizing sheet which is a novelty used therein, and partial emphasis, enlargement, reduction, or omission, etc. have been performed to deepen the understanding, and there are cases where the scale, shape, etc. of each component part are not accurately represented. Furthermore, some numerical values used in each embodiment are all examples, and can be changed variously as required. And, the same reference numerals are assigned to the common configurations in the drawings.

[0015] <First Embodiment> While referring to FIG. 1, an overview of the information processing system according to the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. In particular, in FIG. 1, various processes and responses when a service user applies for a predetermined service using a novelty distributed by a service provider are shown.

[0016] First, as shown at the top of FIG. 1, a service provider provides a service to a service user and distributes a novelty. The “service provider” refers to a person who provides a predetermined service, and in the present embodiment, a lodging facility is assumed, but it is not limited thereto. The service provider may be, for example, a cleaning shop or a restaurant. Note that the service provider may be simply referred to as the “provider” hereinafter.

[0017] "Service user" refers to a person who receives the service provided by the provider. In this embodiment, it is assumed to be a user of an accommodation facility, but it is not limited to this. The service user may be, for example, a user of a cleaning store or a user of a restaurant. In addition, the service user may be simply referred to as "user" hereinafter.

[0018] "Novelty" refers to an item distributed for free without exchange for consideration. Specific examples of novelty will be described later in FIG. 6. In addition, the distribution method of novelty is not limited to only handing it over from the provider to the user. For example, the provider may pre-install the novelty in the accommodation room used by the user and let the user take the novelty away. That is, in the present disclosure, novelty includes amenities.

[0019] Here, the novelty is attached with a code symbol. The code symbol encodes the access information for accessing the service provision information of the provider, and examples of the method include a two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may be a matrix type such as a QR code (registered trademark), or a stack type such as PDF417.

[0020] In the next step, as shown in the middle of FIG. 1, the user reads the code symbol attached to the novelty using the user terminal device he / she has. Then, based on the acquired access information, the user terminal device accesses the server device in which the service provision information of the provider is stored, and displays the service provision information to the user.

[0021] "Access information" refers to the URL of a specific webpage. "Service provision information" refers to information indicating the content of the services that the provider offers to the user. Service provision information may be the top page of the accommodation facility's (provider's) website, a page where the user selects their next accommodation plan, or even a page where the user makes a reservation for the same accommodation plan they previously used.

[0022] After reviewing the service information, users who wish to use the service again can apply to the provider for service use. In other words, the information processing system described in this disclosure is a system designed to encourage users to "repeat use" of the service.

[0023] (Configuration of the processing unit for the service provider) Referring to Figure 2, the specific configuration of the provider terminal device (service provider processing device) according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the provider terminal device 10 according to this embodiment. Note that the provider terminal device 10 does not need to have all of the components shown in Figure 2; it is possible to omit some components or add other components. Furthermore, the provider terminal device 10 does not need to be housed in a single enclosure as shown in Figure 2; it is possible to distribute each component and processing of the provider terminal device 10 to multiple server devices or cloud server devices.

[0024] In this embodiment, the provider terminal device 10 refers to a terminal device used by the provider. However, the provider terminal device is not limited to this, and any device that contains provider information is sufficient. In other words, the provider terminal device may be owned and used by someone other than the provider (for example, a travel agency or management company). The "provider information" includes not only information about the provider itself, such as the provider's name, address, and telephone number, but also information related to the provider's business, such as a list of guests (users) and room availability.

[0025] Typically, the provider terminal device 10 is a wireless communication-capable terminal device such as a laptop computer or a desktop computer, but it is not limited to such devices. For example, the provider terminal device 10 can be any device capable of executing the program related to this disclosure, such as a feature phone, personal digital assistant, smartphone, tablet, PDA, portable game console, or home game console. Furthermore, when multiple provider terminal devices 10 can communicate with the server device 30 described later, each provider terminal device 10 does not necessarily have to be the same or of the same type; they may be different types of terminal devices. In other words, each provider may use a different type of terminal, and a single provider may even use multiple terminals of different types.

[0026] The provider terminal device 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, a communication processing circuit 13a, a communication unit 13 including an antenna 13b, an input unit 14, an output unit 15, and a generation unit 16. These components are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines.

[0027] The processor 11 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and has the function of controlling other connected components based on various programs stored in the memory 12. Specifically, the processor 11 reads and executes programs for executing information processing related to this disclosure and programs for executing the OS from the memory 12. In this embodiment, the processor 11 performs processing related to the information shown in Figure 5 in particular. The processor 11 may consist of a single CPU or GPU, or it may be composed of a combination of multiple CPUs and GPUs.

[0028] Memory 12 consists of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc., and functions as a storage unit 18, which will be described later. ROM stores instruction commands as programs for executing the application and OS according to this disclosure. RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in ROM is being processed by the processor 11. Non-volatile memory is a memory in which data is written and read by the execution of the program, and the data written therein is saved even after the execution of the program has finished. In this embodiment, memory 12 stores a program for executing processing related to the information shown in Figure 5, as well as various types of received information as shown in Figure 5.

[0029] The communication unit 13 has the function of sending and receiving information to and from a remotely installed user terminal device 20, server device 30, or other terminal device via the communication processing circuit 13a and antenna 13b. The communication unit 13 performs processing to send and receive information from the user terminal device 20, server device 30, or other terminal device, such as programs and various information used in the information processing system 1, as processing progresses. In this embodiment, in particular, service provision information is transmitted to the server device 30, and service usage information is received from the server device 30. Service usage information will be described later.

[0030] The communication processing circuit 13a performs processing based on a wideband wireless communication method such as the LTE method, but it can also perform processing based on a narrowband wireless communication method such as Wi-Fi (e.g., IEEE 802.11) or Bluetooth®, or a contactless wireless communication method. In addition, it is possible to use wired communication instead of or in addition to wireless communication.

[0031] The input unit 14 consists of a mouse, hard keys, etc., and has the function of receiving instruction inputs related to the execution of the program according to this embodiment, as well as operation inputs for registering various information. The input unit 14 may have a touch panel instead of a mouse, and known methods such as resistive touch panels, capacitive coupling touch panels, and ultrasonic surface acoustic wave touch panels can be used.

[0032] The output unit 15 has the function of outputting various displays from the display, which are output by executing the program according to the disclosure in accordance with the instructions of the processor 11. The display may be composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or electronic paper, and may be a separate display from the provider terminal device 10. The output unit 15 may also be a touch panel, in which case the touch panel will have the functions of both the input unit 14 and the output unit 15.

[0033] The generation unit 16 has the function of generating a code symbol that encodes access information for accessing service provision information, in accordance with instructions from the processor 11. Specifically, the generation unit 16 converts the numbers, characters, symbols, and other information of a URL relating to a web page on which service provision information is posted, according to certain rules, and generates a two-dimensional code (QR code®).

[0034] (Configuration of the processing unit for service users) Referring to Figure 3, the specific configuration of the user terminal device (service user processing device) according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the user terminal device 20 according to this embodiment. Note that the user terminal device 20 does not need to have all of the components shown in Figure 3; it is possible to omit some components or add other components.

[0035] Typically, the user terminal device 20 is a wireless communication-enabled terminal device such as a smartphone or tablet, but it is not limited to such devices. For example, the user terminal device 20 can preferably be any device capable of executing the program related to this disclosure, such as a feature phone, personal digital assistant, laptop computer, desktop computer, PDA, portable game console, or home game console. Furthermore, when multiple user terminal devices 20 can communicate with the server device 30 described later, each user terminal device 20 does not necessarily have to be the same or of the same type of terminal device; they may be different types of terminal devices. In other words, each user may use a different type of terminal, and furthermore, one user may use multiple terminals of different types.

[0036] The user terminal device 20 includes a processor 21, a memory 22, a communication processing circuit 23a, a communication unit 23 including an antenna 23b, an input unit 24, an output unit 25, and a reading unit 26. These components are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines.

[0037] The processor 21 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and has the function of controlling other connected components based on various programs stored in the memory 22. Specifically, the processor 21 reads and executes programs for executing information processing related to this disclosure and programs for executing the OS from the memory 22. In this embodiment, the processor 21 particularly executes processing related to the information shown in Figure 5. The processor 21 may consist of a single CPU or GPU, or it may be composed of a combination of multiple CPUs and GPUs.

[0038] Memory 22 consists of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc., and functions as a storage unit. ROM stores instruction commands as programs for executing the application and OS according to this disclosure. RAM is used for writing and reading data while the program stored in ROM is being processed by the processor 21. Non-volatile memory is memory in which data is written and read by the execution of the program, and the data written therein is preserved even after the execution of the program has finished. In this embodiment, memory 22 stores a program for executing processing related to the information shown in Figure 5 in particular.

[0039] The communication unit 23 has the function of sending and receiving information to and from a remotely installed provider terminal device 10, server device 30, or other terminal device via the communication processing circuit 23a and antenna 23b. The communication unit 23 performs processing to send and receive information from the provider terminal device 10, server device 30, or other terminal device, such as programs and various information used in the information processing system 1, as processing progresses. In this embodiment, in particular, access information and service usage information are transmitted to the server device 30, and service provision information is received from the server device 30.

[0040] The communication processing circuit 23a performs processing based on a wideband wireless communication method such as the LTE method, but it can also perform processing based on a narrowband wireless communication method such as Wi-Fi (e.g., IEEE 802.11) or Bluetooth®, or a contactless wireless communication method. In addition, it is possible to use wired communication instead of or in addition to wireless communication.

[0041] The input unit 24 consists of a touch panel and has the function of receiving instruction inputs related to the execution of the program according to this embodiment, as well as operation inputs for registering various information. As the touch panel method, known methods such as resistive touch panel, capacitive coupling touch panel, and ultrasonic surface acoustic wave touch panel can be used. The input unit 24 may also have a mouse or hard keys instead of a touch panel.

[0042] The output unit 25 has the function of outputting various displays from the display as they are generated by executing the program according to the disclosure in accordance with the instructions of the processor 21. The display may be composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or electronic paper, and may be a separate display from the user terminal device 20.

[0043] The reading unit 26 consists of a camera and a code reader, and has the function of optically reading access information encoded as code symbols. Specifically, the reading unit 26 converts the captured code symbols to obtain the URL of the web page on which the service provision information is posted.

[0044] (Server configuration) The specific configuration of the server device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the server device 30 according to this embodiment. Note that the server device 30 does not need to have all of the components shown in Figure 4; it is possible to omit some components or add other components. Furthermore, the server device 30 does not need to be housed in a single enclosure as shown in Figure 4; it is possible to distribute each component and processing of the server device 30 to multiple server devices or cloud server devices.

[0045] The server device 30 is typically a wireless communication terminal device such as a large computer, but it is not limited to such devices. For example, the server device 30 can be any device capable of executing the program related to this disclosure, such as a desktop PC, laptop PC, feature phone, personal digital assistant, smartphone, tablet, PDA, portable game console, or home game console.

[0046] The server device 30 includes a processor 31, memory 32, a communication processing circuit 33a, a communication unit 33 including an antenna 33b, an input unit 34, and an output unit 35. These components are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines.

[0047] The processor 31 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and has the function of controlling other connected components based on various programs stored in the memory 32. Specifically, the processor 31 reads and executes programs for executing information processing related to this disclosure and programs for executing the OS from the memory 32. In this embodiment, the processor 31 performs processing related to the information shown in Figure 5 in particular. The processor 31 may consist of a single CPU or GPU, or it may be composed of a combination of multiple CPUs and GPUs.

[0048] Memory 32 consists of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc., and functions as a management unit 36, which will be described later. ROM stores instruction commands as programs for executing the application and OS related to this disclosure. RAM is used for writing and reading data while the program stored in ROM is being processed by the processor 31. Non-volatile memory is memory in which data is written and read by the execution of the program, and the data written therein is saved even after the execution of the program has finished. In this embodiment, memory 32 stores a program for executing processing related to the information shown in Figure 5, as well as various types of received information as shown in Figure 5.

[0049] The communication unit 33 has the function of sending and receiving information to and from the provider terminal device 10, user terminal device 20, or other terminal devices installed remotely, via the communication processing circuit 33a and antenna 33b. The communication unit 33 performs processing to send and receive information from the provider terminal device 10, user terminal device 20, or other terminal devices as the processing of programs and various information used in the information processing system 1 progresses. In this embodiment, in particular, service provision information is sent from the provider terminal device 10 to the server device 30, and access information and service usage information are sent from the user terminal device 20 to the server device 30. Also, service provision information is sent from the server device 30 to the user terminal device 20, and service usage information is sent from the server device 30 to the provider terminal device 10.

[0050] The communication processing circuit 33a performs processing based on a wideband wireless communication method such as the LTE method, but it can also perform processing based on a narrowband wireless communication method such as Wi-Fi (e.g., IEEE 802.11) or Bluetooth®, or a contactless wireless communication method. In addition, it is possible to use wired communication instead of or in addition to wireless communication.

[0051] The input unit 34 has the function of receiving instruction inputs related to the execution of the program according to this embodiment, and operation inputs for registering various information. The input unit 34 may be composed of, for example, a mouse, hard keys, or a touch panel, and if a touch panel is used, known methods such as resistive touch, capacitive coupling, and ultrasonic surface acoustic wave methods can be used.

[0052] The output unit 35 has the function of outputting various displays, which are produced by executing the program according to this disclosure in accordance with the instructions of the processor 31, to a device such as a display or printer. The display may be composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or electronic paper, and may be a separate display from the server device 30. The output unit 35 may also be a touch panel, in which case the touch panel will have the functions of both the input unit 34 and the output unit 35.

[0053] (Configuration of the information processing system) Referring to Figures 5 to 7, the configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment and specific examples of novelty items used therein will be described. Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of the information processing system according to this embodiment. Figure 6(a) is a schematic diagram showing the deodorizing sheet according to this embodiment, and Figure 6(b) is a schematic diagram showing the usage state of the deodorizing sheet according to this embodiment. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the processing in the information processing system according to this embodiment.

[0054] As shown in Figure 5, the information processing system 1 in this embodiment includes a provider terminal device 10, a user terminal device 20, a server device 30, and novelty items 40. The provider terminal device 10 includes a generation unit 16, a processing unit 17, and a storage unit 18 to perform various processes according to this embodiment. The generation unit 16 and the processing unit 17 function when the processor 11 executes a predetermined program stored in the memory 12. The storage unit 18 functions when the processor 11 writes various information to the memory 12.

[0055] The user terminal device 20 has an input unit 24, an output unit 25, and a reading unit 26 to perform various processes according to this embodiment. The input unit 24 and the output unit 25 function when the processor 21 executes a predetermined program stored in the memory 22 and controls the input unit 24 and the output unit 25. The reading unit 26 function when the processor 21 executes a predetermined program stored in the memory 22 and controls the reading unit 26.

[0056] The server device 30 has a communication unit 33 and a management unit 36 ​​to perform various processes according to this embodiment. The communication unit 33 functions when the processor 31 executes a predetermined program stored in the memory 32 and controls the communication unit 33. The management unit 36 ​​functions when the processor 31 writes various information to the memory 32.

[0057] Furthermore, the components of the provider terminal device 10, user terminal device 20, and server device 30 are not limited to those described above. In other words, the above description merely lists components that are particularly relevant to explaining the processing part of this disclosure, and each device will have other functional configurations to realize various processing and functions.

[0058] As shown in Figure 5, the information flow in the information processing system 1 begins with the provider terminal device 10 transmitting service provision information to the server device 30. Specifically, the service provision information entered into the input unit 14 of the provider terminal device 10 is transmitted to the server device 30 via the communication unit 13 (not shown). Here, an example of service provision information would be, if the provider is an accommodation facility, information related to the accommodation plan (room type, meal contents, accommodation fee, etc.).

[0059] Next, in the server device 30, the management unit 36 ​​receives and stores service provision information via the communication unit 33 (not shown). The management unit 36 ​​is capable of reading the service provision information at the timing required by the reading unit 26 of the user terminal device 20. In this way, the server device 30 acquires service provision information each time and stores it in the management unit 36 ​​so that it can be used at any time. Note that the transmission of service provision information to the management unit 36 ​​may be performed by the input unit 34 of the server device 30 instead of the provider terminal device 10.

[0060] Next, the generation unit 16 generates a code symbol 41 that encodes access information for accessing the service provision information. Specifically, the generation unit 16 converts the URL (access information) of the web page on which the service provision information is posted and generates a two-dimensional code (code symbol). As for how the generation unit 16 obtains the URL, the input unit 14 may accept the input URL and send the input URL to the generation unit 16, or the processing unit 17 may read information related to the web page from the management unit 36, obtain the URL from the HTML tags included in that information and send it to the generation unit 16.

[0061] It is also possible to install the generation unit 16 in an external device instead of making it a component of the provider terminal device 10. For example, the generation unit may be installed in a device owned by a printing company. In this case, access information is transmitted from the provider terminal device 10 to the device owned by the printing company, and the generation unit installed in the device owned by the printing company generates the code symbol 41 from the received access information.

[0062] Next, a code symbol 41 encoding access information is attached to the novelty item 40. The code symbol may be attached by directly printing it onto the novelty item 40 using a printing device, or by printing the code symbol 41 onto a sticker and attaching the sticker to the novelty item 40.

[0063] Next, the reading unit 26 of the user terminal device 20 reads access information from the code symbol 41, reads service provision information from the management unit 36 ​​based on the access information, and outputs it as a web page to the output unit 25. Specifically, the reading unit 26 converts the code symbol 41 into access information and accesses the management unit 36 ​​based on the access information. The management unit 36, upon receiving the access, transmits the web page information (service provision information) corresponding to the access information to the reading unit 26 via the communication unit 33. The reading unit 26, having received the service provision information, outputs the service provision information as a web page to the output unit 25. This allows the user to confirm the service provision information. If the user wishes to receive the service related to the service provision information (wishes to use the service), service usage information is entered into the input unit 24, and this service usage information is transmitted to the provider terminal device 10 via the communication unit 33 of the server device 30.

[0064] "Service usage information" refers to information that users use to apply for the use of a service from the provider, and includes, for example, personal information such as the user's name, address, and telephone number, as well as accommodation information such as accommodation plan, accommodation dates, and number of guests.

[0065] Next, when the processing unit 17 of the provider terminal device 10 receives service usage information, it transmits the service usage information to the storage unit 18. By storing the service usage information in the storage unit 18, the provider can read the service usage information at the time it needs to.

[0066] Furthermore, the processing unit 17 performs processing to allow the user to use the service (the provider to provide the service) based on the received service usage information. Specifically, the processing unit 17 may perform processing to send a notification (reservation confirmation notification) to the user terminal device 20 that the application for use has been accepted, or it may perform processing to display a pop-up on the output unit 15 to notify the provider that an application for use has been made.

[0067] (Novelty item) Here, a specific example of the novelty item 40 used in the information processing system 1 will be described. As shown in Figures 6(a) and (b), in this embodiment, the novelty item 40 is a deodorizing sheet with a code symbol 41 attached to its surface. The deodorizing sheet (novelty item) 40 is provided with holes 43, and the deodorizing sheet 40 can be attached to the hanger H by passing the hook of the hanger H through the holes 43 before assembly. This makes it possible to deodorize clothes from the inside while the clothes are still hanging on the hanger H.

[0068] While paper is primarily intended for the deodorizing sheet 40, any material that can perform deodorizing functions is acceptable. For example, the deodorizing sheet 40 may be made of cloth, leather, synthetic leather, nylon, or rubber. Furthermore, the shape and size of the deodorizing sheet 40 are not limited to those shown in Figures 6(a) and (b). For example, the deodorizing sheet 40 may be rectangular, oval, triangular, or trapezoidal, and may be large enough to cover the entire shoulder portion of the hanger H.

[0069] A known method for manufacturing the deodorizing sheet 40 (method for imparting the deodorizing effect) can also be used. For example, the deodorizing sheet 40 may have activated carbon kneaded into the fibers, or metal ions may be attached to the surface of the deodorizing sheet 40. In addition to its deodorizing function, the deodorizing sheet 40 may also have antibacterial, moisture-absorbing, and insect-repellent functions.

[0070] As described above, the novelty item 40 shown in Figures 6(a) and (b) is a deodorizing sheet that can be attached to a hanger H. In this case, since hangers H are used on a daily basis, the person who acquires the deodorizing sheet 40 (i.e., the user) will see the deodorizing sheet 40 on a daily basis. Also, since the deodorizing sheet 40 is expected to be used mainly inside a closet, there is no risk of the code symbol 41 becoming dirty or faded and deteriorating, and there is no risk of it being lost. Furthermore, since the deodorizing sheet 40 has a deodorizing effect, it can be expected that users will use it for a long period of time. In addition, since the deodorizing sheet 40 can be stored while attached to the hanger H, there is no need to secure a storage place for the deodorizing sheet 40 itself. Therefore, compared to other common novelty items (pens, cups, etc.), it does not get in the way even if the quantity increases, and furthermore, by being attached to multiple hangers H, it becomes more visible. For the reasons above, the deodorizing sheet 40 is less likely to be discarded compared to other common novelty items, and since it is seen by users frequently, it can exert a high advertising effect as a novelty item.

[0071] Furthermore, the novelty item 40 is not limited to the deodorizing sheets shown in Figures 6(a) and (b). In other words, the novelty item 40 is not limited to having a deodorizing function. The novelty item 40 may be, for example, a sheet that can be attached to the hanger H and does not have a deodorizing function. Even in such a case, it is possible to achieve a high advertising effect for the reasons stated above.

[0072] Furthermore, the novelty item 40 is not limited to those that can be attached to the hanger H, as shown in Figures 6(a) and (b). The novelty item 40 may also be a sheet material with a deodorizing function that deodorizes when inserted into shoes or bags. Even in such cases, it is possible to achieve a high advertising effect for the same reasons as described above.

[0073] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(b), the code symbol 41 is positioned in the center of the hanger H when the deodorizing sheet 40 is attached to the hanger H. Therefore, even when clothes are hung on the hanger H, the code symbol 41 is easily exposed without being hidden by the clothes. As a result, users can read the code symbol 41 while clothes are still hanging on the hanger H.

[0074] By using the aforementioned deodorizing sheet as novelty item 40, a cycle of "repeat use" of the provider's service by the user is more likely to occur, as shown in Figure 7. First, a person who does not yet possess novelty item 40 (a user) applies to the provider to use the provider's service, and the provider accepts the application (S1). Next, the provider provides the service to the user and also provides novelty item 40 (S2). Next, the user who has taken novelty item 40 home uses the user terminal device 20 to read the code symbol 41 attached to novelty item 40 (S3) and obtains service provision information (S4). Then, the service usage information is transmitted from the user terminal device 20 to the provider terminal device 10 (S5), and the provider terminal device 10 receives the service usage information and accepts the application for repeat use of the service (S1).

[0075] Generally, when a user reads a code symbol, they would have to search for the novelty item 40 at home or elsewhere. However, in this embodiment, the novelty item 40 is attached to a hanger H used in closets or other indoor spaces, eliminating the need to search for the novelty item 40 itself. Furthermore, as mentioned above, even if a user obtains and uses the novelty item 40 to receive the service, the novelty item 40 itself is not particularly cumbersome, and its deodorizing function or design enhances its value. As a result, users may not only use the service repeatedly if they like the provider's service, but also to collect the novelty item 40, and these synergistic effects will lead to an even higher repeat customer rate. Consequently, the cycle shown in Figure 7 is more likely to occur, further enhancing the advertising effect.

[0076] (Effects of the first embodiment) In this embodiment, a novelty item 40 bearing a code symbol 41 is provided to the user, allowing the user to apply for repeat use of the provider's services via the code symbol 41. Users can apply for service use relatively easily, and providers can encourage users to use their services repeatedly, leading to an increase in the repeat customer rate and ultimately an increase in the number of customers.

[0077] <Second Embodiment> In the first embodiment, when the provider terminal device 10 received service usage information, it performed a process to store the service usage information. In addition to this, it may also acquire and store information to provide additional conveniences to the service user based on the received service usage information. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the service provider and the novelty item distributor were the same person, but these may be different people, and the provider terminal device 10 may acquire and store information to reward the novelty item distributor.

[0078] The above-described case will be explained as a second embodiment with reference to Figures 8 to 10. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the information processing system according to this embodiment. Figure 9 is a functional block diagram of the information processing system according to this embodiment. Figure 10 is a data table stored in the provider terminal device according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be explained in principle, and the explanation of the same parts will be omitted, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0079] As shown in Figure 8, in this embodiment, a process is added in which the service provider (provider) provides additional benefits to the service user (user), and a process is added in which the provider provides compensation to the novelty item distributor.

[0080] "Additional benefits" refer to perks given by the provider to the user in addition to the provision of services related to service usage information. Examples of additional benefits include discounts on service usage fees and the distribution of gifts. By providing additional benefits to users (i.e., repeat customers), it is possible to further increase user satisfaction and purchasing intent, thereby further improving the repeat customer rate.

[0081] "Compensation" refers to incentives or necessary expenses given by the provider to the novelty item distributor. Examples of compensation include money or points. Compensation may also include the production costs of the novelty item 40 or advertising fees paid by the provider to the novelty item distributor. "Novelty item distributor" refers to a person who distributes the novelty item to users on behalf of the provider. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the provider is a restaurant and the novelty item distributor is an accommodation facility. In this case, the novelty item distributor (accommodation facility) distributes novelty items with a code symbol attached that allows access to service information related to the provider (restaurant) (e.g., menu items and prices). In addition, the restaurant provides compensation to the accommodation facility according to the number of novelty items issued and the number of service usage applications (reception of service usage information).

[0082] This arrangement saves providers (restaurants) the trouble of distributing novelty items at their own establishments, and for larger novelty item distributors (accommodations), it can be expected to yield higher advertising and promotional effects than distributing them at their own establishments. On the other hand, novelty item distributors (accommodations) can receive incentives for distributing novelty items, and by providing novelty items (i.e., deodorizing sheets) at their facilities, they can expect to increase the loyalty of novelty item recipients to their establishment and encourage repeat use of their facilities.

[0083] Furthermore, the novelty item distributor could also be a tourism association, in which case local tourist facilities and restaurants would likely be the providers. Access information related to service provision information (such as web pages for tourist information and area maps) summarizing the services offered by each provider would be attached to the novelty item 40 as code symbol 41, and the tourism association would distribute the novelty item 40. In such a case, the novelty item 40 (and by extension, the information processing system) could be used to revitalize the local tourism industry.

[0084] As shown in Figure 9, in the information processing system 101 according to this embodiment, additional convenience information and reward information are added to the information transmitted from the processing unit 17 of the provider terminal device 10 to the storage unit 18.

[0085] As an example of additional convenience information, the data table shown at the top of Figure 10 stores "ID," "User Name," "User Address," "Number of Uses," and "Additional Convenience." "ID" is a unique identification number assigned to identify the user. "User Name" is the user's name, and "User Address" is the user's address. "Number of Uses" is the number of times the user has used the provider's service. "Additional Convenience" is information indicating the content of the additional convenience that the provider gives to the user, and in Figure 10, the discount rate is stored.

[0086] In the provider terminal device 10, when service usage information is received from the user terminal device 20 via the server device 30, additional convenience information is read from the storage unit 18 by the processing unit 17, and it is determined whether the service usage information and the additional convenience information match. Specifically, the processing unit 17 refers to the data table related to the additional convenience information in Figure 10 and determines whether the "user name" and "user address" included in the data table match the user name and user address included in the service usage information.

[0087] If the above determination is found to be a match, the processing unit 17 modifies the data table related to the additional convenience information. For example, the processing unit 17 modifies the number of times user name B has used the service from "5" to "6". Then, the processing unit 17 stores the modified data table in the storage unit 18.

[0088] On the other hand, as an example of reward information, the data table shown at the bottom of Figure 10 stores "ID," "Distributor Name," "Distributor Address," "Number of Items Placed," and "Reward." "ID" is a unique identification number assigned to identify the distributor. "Distributor Name" is the name of the distributor, and "Distributor Address" is the location of the distributor. "Number of Items Placed" is the quantity of novelty items (40) placed by the novelty item distributor. "Number of Uses" is the number of times users have used the provider's service out of the number of items placed. "Reward" is information indicating the content of the reward that the provider will give to the novelty item distributor, and in Figure 10, the reward amount is stored.

[0089] In the provider terminal device 10, when service usage information is received from the user terminal device 20 via the server device 30, the reward grant information is read from the storage unit 18 by the processing unit 17, and it is determined whether the service usage information and the reward grant information match. Specifically, the processing unit 17 refers to the data table related to the reward grant information in Figure 10 and determines whether the "distributor name" and "distributor address" included in the data table match the distributor name and distributor address included in the service usage information. As for how to include the distributor name and distributor address in the service usage information, a typical method is to have the user input the name and address of the novelty distributor when inputting the service usage information, but it is also possible to pre-encode the name and address of the novelty distributor in the code symbol 41, so that the name and address of the novelty distributor are automatically entered when the user inputs the service usage information.

[0090] If the above determination is found to be correct, the processing unit 17 modifies the data table related to the reward granting information. For example, the processing unit 17 modifies the number of uses of distributor name E from "10" to "11". Then, the processing unit 17 stores the modified data table in the storage unit 18.

[0091] Additional convenience information can be viewed by the provider via the output unit 15. This allows them to check the number of repeat uses for each user. In addition, reward information can also be viewed by the provider via the output unit 15. This allows them to check the number of repeat uses for each user for each novelty item distributor, and can be used to consider locations where the novelty item 40 is most effective.

[0092] In this embodiment, both additional convenience information and reward information exist, but it is also possible to handle only the additional convenience information. Alternatively, it is also possible to handle only the reward information, in which case the provider and the novelty item distributor may be the same person, or even if they are different people, no information processing related to the granting of rewards will be performed. Furthermore, when new additional conveniences or rewards are set, the new information is input from the input unit 14 and stored in the storage unit 18.

[0093] Furthermore, the same code symbol is not always used, and the code symbol may be changed at predetermined intervals. For example, the code symbol may be changed seasonally or monthly, and the content of additional benefits or rewards may be changed depending on the code symbol read. This can further increase users' motivation to collect novelty items 40, thereby increasing advertising effectiveness and repeat purchase rates. In this case, it is preferable to link and appropriately manage service information, additional benefit information, and reward information.

[0094] (Effects of the second embodiment) In this embodiment, the provider terminal device 10 processes additional convenience information and reward information. This allows the provider to verify and analyze the additional convenience information and reward information, which in turn further promotes repeat use of the service by users. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 1. Information Processing System 10. Provider terminal device (processing device for service providers) 16 Generation part 17 Processing Unit 18 Memory section 20. User terminal equipment (processing device for service users) 24 Input section 25 Output section 26 Reading section 30 Server Devices 40 Novelty items (deodorizing sheets) 41 Code Symbols H Hanger

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising a service user's processing device owned by a service user, a service provider's processing device holding information about the service provider, and a novelty item with a code symbol attached, The service user processing device includes a reading unit that reads the code symbol which encodes access information for accessing service provision information relating to the service provider, an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit into which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input. The service provider processing device comprises a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information, and a storage unit that stores the service usage information. The aforementioned novelty item is an information processing system that can be attached to a hanger.

2. An information processing system comprising a service user's processing device owned by a service user, a service provider's processing device holding information about the service provider, and a novelty item with a code symbol attached, The service user processing device includes a reading unit that reads the code symbol which encodes access information for accessing service provision information relating to the service provider, an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit into which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input. The service provider processing device comprises a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information, and a storage unit that stores the service usage information. The aforementioned novelty item is an information processing system consisting of a sheet material having deodorizing properties.

3. The service provider processing device further comprises a generation unit, The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the generation unit generates the code symbol.

4. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processing unit, upon receiving the service usage information, performs a process to obtain additional convenience information for providing additional convenience to the service user.

5. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processing unit, upon receiving the service usage information, performs a process to obtain reward granting information for granting a reward to the novelty item distributor who distributed the novelty item.

6. A novelty item bearing a code symbol, Used in an information processing system comprising: a service user processing device having a reading unit that reads a code symbol encoding access information for accessing service provision information relating to a service provider; an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information; and an input unit into which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input; and a service provider processing device having a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information; and a storage unit that stores the service usage information. A novelty item consisting of a sheet material with deodorizing properties, which can be attached to a hanger.

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