Trading support system, computer program for trading support system, and control method for trading support system

Abstract

To simplify adjustment work for establishing transaction.SOLUTION: A transaction support system 100 for supporting establishment of transaction by defining provision requirements for providing services includes: service setting means 33 setting a service candidate group including a plurality of services capable of being provided to users in association with service information of each service used in service selection; information item setting means 32 for setting information items required by suppliers to define the provision requirements for each service included in the service candidate group; service selection means 33 for selecting, from the service candidate group, services provided according to a user's request, using the service information and selection information acquired on the basis of a user's instruction; request acquisition means 34 for acquiring request information for specifying a user's request for the information items on the basis of a user's instruction; and establishment means 36 for defining the provision requirements on the basis of the request information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a transaction support system that determines service provision requirements and supports the conclusion of a transaction between a supplier and a user, a computer program for the transaction support system, and a control method for the transaction support system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an automatic quotation system. In this automatic quotation system, a shape recognition processing unit recognizes the shape of an item described in shape data input by a user. Then, a display information processing unit acquires selectable manufacturing conditions based on the type of item input by the user and the recognized shape of the item. Furthermore, a display processing unit displays the outline of the recognized item in an item shape display unit on the display screen, and displays the manufacturing conditions in a manufacturing condition selection unit. A user selects any manufacturing condition from the manufacturing conditions displayed in the manufacturing condition selection unit. Then, the user selects an estimate start unit displayed on the display unit to cause the automatic quotation system to start the quotation process. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-062403 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] A user seeking a service goes through a process of obtaining a quote and then concludes a transaction with a supplier that provides the service. In this case, the services that a supplier can provide may not match the service the user is looking for. For example, when a user is looking for a supplier to manufacture a product, the user first presents information such as product specifications to the supplier. The supplier then responds to the user as to whether or not it can manufacture the product according to the presented product specifications. At this time, the supplier may request further information from the user to determine whether or not it can manufacture the product. If the supplier replies that it cannot manufacture the product, the user must search for a new supplier. The user must then repeatedly present information to suppliers until they find a supplier that can provide the desired service. This has required the user to repeat the same process. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A transaction support system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a transaction support system for determining the provision requirements for providing a service between a supplier who provides a service and a user who requests the provision of the service, and for supporting the conclusion of a transaction between the supplier and the user, and is equipped with: a service setting means for setting a group of service candidates including a plurality of services that can be provided to the user in correspondence with service information for each service used in selecting the service; an information item setting means for setting, for each service included in the group of service candidates, information items required by the supplier to determine the provision requirements; a service selection means for selecting the service to be provided at the request of the user from the group of service candidates using the service information and selection information acquired based on the user's instructions; a request acquisition means for acquiring, based on the user's instructions, request information for identifying the user's requirements for the information items set corresponding to the selected service; and a determination means for determining the provision requirements based on the acquired request information.

[0006] A computer program for a transaction support system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a computer program for a transaction support system that includes a computer and determines the provision requirements for providing a service between a supplier that provides a service and a user who requests the provision of the service, thereby supporting the conclusion of a transaction between the supplier and the user. The computer functions as: a service setting means that sets a group of service candidates including a plurality of services that can be provided to the user in correspondence with service information for each service used in selecting the service; an information item setting means that sets, for each service included in the group of service candidates, information items required by the supplier to determine the provision requirements; a service selection means that selects the service to be provided at the request of the user from the group of service candidates using the service information and selection information acquired based on the user's instructions; a request acquisition means that acquires, based on the user's instructions, request information to identify the user's requirements for the information items set corresponding to the selected service; and a determination means that determines the provision requirements based on the acquired request information.

[0007] A control method for a transaction support system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a control method for a transaction support system that includes a computer and determines provision requirements for providing a service between a supplier that provides a service and a user who requests the provision of the service, thereby supporting the conclusion of a transaction between the supplier and the user, and causes the computer to set a group of service candidates including a plurality of services that can be provided to the user in correspondence with service information for each service used in selecting the service, set information items required by the supplier to determine the provision requirements for each service included in the group of service candidates, select the service to be provided at the request of the user from the group of service candidates using the service information and selection information acquired based on the user's instructions, acquire request information based on the user's instructions to identify the user's requirements for the information items set corresponding to the selected service, and determine the provision requirements based on the acquired request information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a transaction support system. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic block diagram of a transaction support system. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a server control unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a service card list screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a service content screen. [Figure 6] Schematic diagram showing a supplier screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a case example screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a project list screen. [Figure 9] Schematic diagram showing a project details screen. [Figure 10] FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a case list screen. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a case details screen. [Figure 13] Schematic diagram showing product specifications. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart of a transaction support flow. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of a transaction support system 100 for supporting the conclusion of a transaction between a supplier and a user. The transaction support system 100 supports the conclusion of a transaction by determining the service provision requirements (e.g., product specifications acceptable to the supplier) for providing the service between a supplier providing a service and a user requesting the service. The transaction includes an agreement to provide a service, such as an agreement to provide a service such as manufacturing, processing, data creation, or measurement. The transaction also includes an agreement to provide other work related to the service provision, such as an agreement to provide an estimate, specification preparation, or introduction.

[0010] When a user concludes a transaction without using the transaction support system 100, the user searches for suppliers who can provide the desired service through methods such as introductions from acquaintances or internet searches. Since the capabilities of each supplier are unknown, the user must spend a lot of time narrowing down the list of suppliers to find one that can provide the desired service. For example, only a few suppliers can mass-produce products in small quantities (e.g., 100 to 10,000 units). Specifically, suppliers offering prototype manufacturing services may not have the equipment to mass-produce products or may be unable to maintain the quality of mass-produced products. Furthermore, suppliers offering mass-production services may incur high unit prices for small-quantity products or may be unable to produce products in a short time. Furthermore, some suppliers may not have the equipment to manufacture products according to the product specifications desired by the user.

[0011] As a result, the user's requirements often do not match the supplier's service capabilities, making it difficult to find a supplier that can provide the service the user desires. Furthermore, when manufacturing a small number of products consisting of multiple parts, or when some parts require special processing, the user must search for a supplier for each part. As a result, the user must spend a lot of time and effort searching for a supplier. In this regard, the transaction support system 100 can match the services the user desires with the services that the supplier can provide through the information items described below. This allows the services that the supplier can provide to match the services the user desires, simplifying the coordination work required to complete the transaction and preventing discrepancies from being discovered after the transaction is completed.

[0012] The transaction support system 100 will be described below with reference to FIG. 1. The transaction support system 100 is configured as a network system or a client-server system. However, the transaction support system 100 may also be configured as a single server device. The transaction support system 100 also includes a transaction support server 20, and a user terminal 40 and a supplier terminal 60 as clients communicably connected to the transaction support server 20 via a network 50. The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 are computer devices capable of connecting to a network. For example, the user terminal 40 includes various devices capable of connecting to a network, such as a stationary computer device 41 or a mobile terminal 42 such as a smartphone. Similarly, the supplier terminal 60 includes a device such as the computer device 61 or the mobile terminal 62.

[0013] The transaction support server 20 is configured as a single logical server device by combining multiple server units 21 as computers. However, the transaction support server 20 may also be configured by a single server unit 21. Alternatively, the transaction support server 20 may be configured logically using cloud computing. The transaction support server 20 may receive user identification information that identifies a user from the user terminal 40 and perform authentication. The transaction support server 20 may also receive supplier identification information that identifies a supplier from the supplier terminal 60 and perform authentication.

[0014] Furthermore, transaction support server 20 may store various data uploaded by authenticated users or suppliers. In this case, transaction support server 20 may provide the stored data to user terminal 40 and supplier terminal 60. Furthermore, transaction support server 20 may perform processes such as arranging for services ordered by the user, delivering products, and billing for the provision of services in response to transactions for which the provision requirements have been confirmed. Transaction support server 20 may then collect fees for the provision of services by suppliers from users. Furthermore, transaction support server 20 may collect fees for using transaction support system 100 from users or suppliers.

[0015] The network 50 is configured to connect the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 to the transaction support server 20. As an example, the network 50 is configured to realize network communication using the TCP / IP protocol. Specifically, a LAN 52 connects the transaction support server 20 to the Internet 51. The Internet 51 and the LAN 52 are connected as a WAN via a router 53. The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 are also configured to be connected to the Internet 51. The network 50 may be a dedicated line, a telephone line, an in-house network, a mobile communication network, other communication lines, or a combination thereof, and may be wired or wireless. The server units 21 of the transaction support server 20 may be connected to each other via the Internet 51 instead of or in addition to the LAN 52.

[0016] The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 can be equipped with various computer software programs, allowing users and suppliers to receive support from the transaction support server 20. The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 are equipped with a display unit such as a display or touch panel, or are connected to the display unit by wire or wirelessly. The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 may also be various types of computer devices, such as a notebook-type personal computer or a portable tablet terminal device.

[0017] The transaction support server 20 guides the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 through various procedures required to conclude a transaction between the supplier and the user. As an example, the transaction support server 20 is configured as a web server that displays various web pages on the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 in response to access from the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60. The following describes an example in which the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 display web pages using a web browser.

[0018] [Outline of the procedure to be guided] As an example, the transaction support server 20 guides the user through the following procedure. First, the user accesses a web page provided by the transaction support server 20 from the user terminal 40. Then, the transaction support server 20 authenticates the user terminal 40 using user information stored for each user, such as previously acquired user identification information and a password. The transaction support server 20 also presents a service candidate group including multiple services that can be provided to the user. Each service constituting the service candidate group is associated with service information for each service used in selecting a service. As an example, the transaction support server 20 displays, side by side on the display unit of the user terminal 40, virtual cards (hereinafter also referred to as "service cards") associated with service information via card identification information that identifies each card, as services constituting the service candidate group.

[0019] The user finds a service card corresponding to the desired service from the displayed group of service candidates. For example, when the user specifies a service card, the transaction assistance server 20 displays at least a portion of the service information. As an example, the service information includes content information indicating the content of the service associated with the service card, supplier information allowing the user to identify suppliers that provide each service, and case information indicating examples of services provided by the suppliers. The user then uses the service information to select a service card corresponding to the desired service. Note that in this specification, user specification includes specification by operation via an input device, such as touching or clicking on an icon, as well as specification by voice input or specification automatically performed by the system in response to some user operation.

[0020] In response to a selection operation by the user, the transaction support server 20 selects a service card and associates it with the user information. As an example, the transaction support server 20 stores card identification information in association with the user identification information. Then, when the user performs an operation to use the selected service card, the transaction support server 20 includes the selected service card in at least one project, which serves as a unit for managing multiple processes (or tasks) that determine the provision requirements. Here, the transaction support server 20 may include the service card in a newly created project, or may include the service card in an already created project.

[0021] When the user selects a project, the transaction support server 20 displays the information items required by the supplier to determine the provision requirements. The information items are set corresponding to each service card included in the selected project, i.e., each selected service. The user inputs required information (e.g., product specifications) to identify the user's requirements for each information item. The user then performs an operation to request a quote from the supplier. The transaction support server 20 also saves the required information and notifies the supplier that a quote has been requested.

[0022] The supplier (including the supplier's staff member) confirms the notification from the transaction support server 20 and accesses the web page provided by the transaction support server 20 from the supplier terminal 60. The transaction support server 20 then authenticates the supplier terminal 60 using supplier information stored for each supplier, such as previously acquired supplier identification information and a password. The transaction support server 20 also displays a list of projects, including the project for which a quote has been requested, on the display unit of the supplier terminal 60. When the supplier selects the project for which a quote has been requested, the transaction support server 20 displays the request information entered by the user. The supplier then confirms the request information, enters a quote, and responds to the user. The transaction support server 20 also stores the quote content and notifies the user that a quote has been sent. If necessary, the user or supplier can contact each other using the communication function described below.

[0023] [Transaction support server] The control system of transaction support server 20 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Transaction support server 20 includes a server control unit 23 that controls transaction support server 20 and a server memory 22, which is an example of storage means that stores support program PG. Server control unit 23 is configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processes and operation control in accordance with a predetermined program with other peripheral devices. Transaction support server 20 also includes a server communication unit 27, which is an example of a communication device that transmits and receives data to and from user terminal 40 and supplier terminal 60. Note that a cloud-based database may function as storage means.

[0024] As an example, the processor of the server control unit 23 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), which controls the entire transaction support server 20 and also centrally controls various processes based on programs stored in the server memory 22. The server memory 22 is a computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium. The storage medium includes RAM (Random Access Memory), which serves as system work memory for the processor's operation, as well as storage devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), and SSD (Solid State Drive) for storing programs and system software. The following description will be given of an example in which the processor performs various processing operations, such as calculations, control, and determination, in accordance with a support program PG, which is an example of a computer program stored in the ROM or HDD. The support program PG causes the server control unit 23, which is an example of a computer, to function as each functional unit.

[0025] An interface including a keyboard or various switches for inputting predetermined commands and data is connected, via wire or wireless, to the server control unit 23. A monitor for displaying the input status, setting status, measurement results, and various information of the device is also connected, via wire or wireless, to the server control unit 23. Furthermore, the server control unit 23 can also perform control according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), CF (Compact Flash) card, or USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, or in an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

[0026] The server control unit 23 will be further described with reference to FIG. 3. The server control unit 23 includes a service setting unit 31, which is an example of a service setting means; an information item setting unit 32, which is an example of an information item setting means; a service selection unit 33, which is an example of a service selection means; a request acquisition unit 34, which is an example of a request acquisition means; and a confirmation unit 36, which is an example of a confirmation means. The request acquisition unit 34 includes an item image presentation unit 34A, which is an example of an item image presentation means; an annotation data generation unit 34B, which is an example of an annotation data generation means; and an annotation data acquisition unit 34C, which is an example of an annotation data acquisition means. The confirmation unit 36 ​​includes a communication unit 36A, which is an example of a communication means; and an annotation image presentation unit 36B, which is an example of an annotation image presentation means. The server control unit 23 also includes a management unit 37, which is an example of a management means; and an information presentation unit 38, which is an example of an information presentation means that presents various information to a user or a supplier.

[0027] The service setting unit 31, information item setting unit 32, service selection unit 33, request acquisition unit 34, item image presentation unit 34A, note data generation unit 34B, note data acquisition unit 34C, confirmation unit 36, communication unit 36A, note image presentation unit 36B, management unit 37, and information presentation unit 38 each function as a functional unit when the server control unit 23 executes the assistance program PG. Each functional unit is a logical device realized by cooperation between computer hardware and software. Note that at least some of the functional units may be provided in the user terminal 40 or the supplier terminal 60. Furthermore, at least some of the functional units may be provided in an external computer device. In this case, the programs of each device cooperate to function as the assistance program PG.

[0028] [Service setting method] The service setting unit 31 sets a service candidate group including multiple services that can be provided to the user in association with the service information of each service used for service selection. For example, the service setting unit 31 sets a service candidate group consisting of services input by a supplier or an administrator of the transaction support server 20 in association with the service information. The user can select a service by referring to the service information. Furthermore, an AI created by machine learning can automatically select a service by referring to the service information based on information acquired from the user (e.g., keywords used for search, past transaction history, etc.).

[0029] The service setting unit 31 also sets information for allowing the user to understand each service as service information. As an example, the supplier sends services to be included in the service candidate group and service information corresponding to the services to the transaction support server 20 via the supplier terminal 60. The service setting unit 31 then associates the services with the received service information and sets them as part of the service candidate group. The service setting unit 31 also sets the service card 11 (FIG. 4) as a medium for displaying information for allowing the user to understand each service. As another example, the information for allowing the user to understand each service may be the service name, an image, or a character string indicating an overview of each service.

[0030] The service selection unit 33 presents at least some of the services included in the service candidate group to the user as options for service selection. As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, the service selection unit 33 presents the user with service cards 11 indicating each service constituting the service candidate group. FIG. 4 shows a service card list screen, which is an example of options presented by the service selection unit 33. However, the service selection unit 33 may present multiple images or service names corresponding to the services as information to help the user understand each service. As an example, the service candidate group includes product-related services that require work by a supplier related to the product, such as manufacturing, processing, data creation, or measurement. Furthermore, the product-related service includes a product manufacturing service that requires the supplier to manufacture the product as work. Furthermore, the service candidate group may include other services, such as specification creation or introduction.

[0031] The service card list screen is displayed on the display unit of the user terminal 40. The service card list screen also has a card column 11A in which multiple service cards 11 are displayed side by side. In the example of FIG. 4, six service cards 11 are arranged three horizontally and two vertically, but five or fewer or seven or more service cards 11 may be displayed. The user can display more service cards 11 by scrolling or the like. The service cards 11 may also be displayed in other arrangements, such as a vertical line, a horizontal line, or a random arrangement. The service card list screen also has a category column 11B in which categories are displayed. In FIG. 4, the category column 11B is displayed to the left of the card column 11A. The category column 11B displays examples of major categories, such as "3D printing (materials)" and "3D printing (construction method)," and examples of medium categories, such as "metal" and "thermal fusion lamination."

[0032] Furthermore, the service card 11 may include an image related to the service, specific information identifying the service (e.g., a service name or service identification information identifying the service), the name of the supplier providing the service, an overview of the service, and a service category. In the example of FIG. 4, an image of a tool, which is an example of an image related to the service, and a character string such as "tool prototyping" as the service name or service category are displayed. In addition, the names of companies A to F are displayed as the names of the suppliers. Note that multiple suppliers may provide a service corresponding to one service card 11. In the example of FIG. 4, it is shown that companies A and C cooperate to provide a jig production service. Also, different suppliers may provide the same or similar services. In the example of FIG. 4, it is shown that companies A and F provide a tool prototyping service.

[0033] Additionally, card data 24, an example of service information, is stored in the server memory 22 (FIG. 2). The card data 24 includes content information 24A indicating the content of the service associated with the service card, supplier information 24B for allowing the user to identify the supplier providing each service, and case information 24C indicating examples of services provided by the supplier. Furthermore, the content information 24A, case information 24C, and supplier information 24B are associated with each other via the service card 11. For example, the content information 24A, case information 24C, and supplier information 24B are stored in association with card identification information. The card data 24 also includes various information necessary for displaying the service card 11, such as images related to the service, the configuration of the service card, and the display position of the service card.

[0034] When the user performs a predetermined operation, the content information 24A is displayed by the information presentation unit 38. For example, when the user performs a click operation to designate the service card 11, the information presentation unit 38 displays a web page corresponding to the operation on the display unit of the user terminal 40. The information presentation unit 38 may display the web page as a new web page, or may display the web page side by side or overlaid on the same screen as the currently displayed web page. As an example, FIG. 5 shows a service content screen, which is an example of the presentation of the content information 24A when the user selects "Tool Prototype (Company A)" in FIG. 4. The service content screen includes a content field 12A that displays details of the service content. In the example of FIG. 5, the content field 12A displays "Main Use" and "Available Sizes," etc. In addition, in FIG. 5, images 12B of prototype tools A to C are displayed below the content field 12A. The service content screen also includes a supplier icon 12C for displaying supplier information 24B and a case example icon 12D for displaying case example information 24C.

[0035] When the user performs a click operation or the like to designate the supplier icon 12C, the information presentation unit 38 displays a supplier screen (FIG. 6). FIG. 6 shows the supplier screen displaying supplier information 24B about Company A. The supplier screen has a company information field 13A that displays company information such as the company name, location, business hours, company overview, number of employees, owned facilities, company structure, representative name, company history, business content, policies, and contact information. Also, in FIG. 6, below the company information field 13A, there are provided a case example icon 13B for displaying case information 24C and a card icon 13C for displaying content information 24A. When the user performs a click operation or the like to designate the card icon 13C, the information presentation unit 38 displays a service content screen (FIG. 5).

[0036] When the user performs a click operation or the like to designate the example icon 13B, the information presenting unit 38 displays the example screen (FIG. 7). Similarly, when the user designates the example icon 12D on the service content screen shown in FIG. 5, the information presenting unit 38 displays the example screen (FIG. 7). FIG. 7 shows the example screen displaying example information 24C about a tool prototype (Company A). The example screen has an example content field 14A that displays the details of the example, such as the processing method and application. Also, in FIG. 7, images 14B of prototype tools A and B are displayed on the left side of the example content field 14A. Furthermore, the example screen has a card icon 14C for displaying the details information 24A and a supplier icon 14D for displaying supplier information 24B. When the user designates the card icon 14C, the information presenting unit 38 displays the example screen (FIG. 7). Also, when the user designates the supplier icon 14D, the information presenting unit 38 displays the supplier screen (FIG. 6).

[0037] [Information item setting means] The information item setting unit 32 sets, for each service included in the service candidate group, information items required by the supplier to determine the provision requirements. For example, the information item setting unit 32 sets the information items based on instructions from the supplier providing the service. Specifically, the information item setting unit 32 sets information items entered by the supplier or the administrator of the transaction support server 20 as items for which the user can upload, input, or select data. For example, the requirement data 26 stored in the server memory 22 includes information item data 26A indicating information items for each service. Each information item is included in the information item data 26A in association with card identification information and supplier identification information. The supplier can determine whether it can meet the provision requirements based on the information entered or selected by the user for each information item. This eliminates the need for the supplier to repeatedly request the user to provide information. This reduces the number of communications between the supplier and the user, simplifies the adjustment work required to complete a transaction, and prevents discrepancies from being discovered after the transaction is completed.

[0038] For example, a supplier sends information items corresponding to a service to the transaction support server 20 via the supplier terminal 60. The information item setting unit 32 then associates the received information items with the card identification information, sets them for each service, and includes them in the information item data 26A. For example, the information items include the user's name, contact information, name of the person in charge, desired price, desired delivery date, size, tolerance, color, shape, quantity, service category, purpose, construction method, material, processing details, whether or not post-processing is required, the details of post-processing, whether or not pre-processing is required, the details of pre-processing, and the equipment used for processing, etc. The user can input or select the desired quantity of the item via a pull-down menu or an input device. Furthermore, the user can upload three-dimensional (3D) model data, two-dimensional (2D) model data, etc. for the information items.

[0039] Furthermore, if the service candidate group includes the above-mentioned product-related service, the information item setting unit 32 sets, as information items required by the supplier for the product-related service, model data for identifying the product and work conditions that specify the conditions for work that the supplier should perform on the product. For example, the information item setting unit 32 sets an information item for uploading model data such as 3D or 2D model data. In this case, the request acquisition unit 34 acquires, as request information, the data uploaded for the information items set by the information item setting unit 32. Furthermore, the information item setting unit 32 sets, as work conditions, items such as the method of manufacturing or processing the product, the measurement method, the material of the product, whether or not post-processing is performed, whether or not post-processing is performed, the equipment used to manufacture or process the product, and the measuring equipment.

[0040] Furthermore, if the service candidate group includes the above-mentioned product manufacturing service, the information item setting unit 32 sets the manufacturing conditions to be instructed for the manufacturing of the product as work conditions. For example, the information item setting unit 32 sets manufacturing conditions such as the method of manufacturing or processing the product, the material of the product, whether or not post-processing is performed, whether or not post-processing is performed, and the equipment used to manufacture or process the product as work condition items.

[0041] The information items will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 illustrates a project list screen displayed when the user has completed selecting the service card 11. The project list screen displays a new project field 15A displaying a newly created project. An upload field 15B is also displayed as an information item set for uploading data. In FIG. 8, the upload field 15B displays text urging the user to upload data, such as "Please upload 3D model data." The user can upload desired data by dragging and dropping, specifying a file, or the like. On the other hand, if the user does not want to upload data, for example, when requesting the creation of 3D model data, the user selects that there is no data to upload by not uploading data. Alternatively, the upload field 15B may not be displayed according to the setting made by the information item setting unit 32.

[0042] The project list screen also displays an existing project field 15C that displays projects that have already been created. The existing project field 15C can display multiple existing projects that make up the past request history, and the user can display the desired project by scrolling or other operations. The existing project field 15C also displays thumbnail images 15D of model data uploaded by the user. Furthermore, the new project field 15A and the existing project field 15C display a selection card field 15E that displays service cards 11 selected by the user and associated with the project.

[0043] In FIG. 8, below the existing project column 15C, a status column 15F is displayed, which indicates the status corresponding to each service card 11 selected in the project. In the example of FIG. 8, the statuses displayed are "specification confirmation in progress," which indicates that the work to finalize the provision requirements is in progress and that a quote has not yet been requested; "quotation in progress," which indicates that a quote is being requested; and "quotation completed," which indicates that the quote has been completed. Furthermore, the status column 15F may display other statuses, such as the status of a service request or the status of the service completion (e.g., the status of received manufactured goods). Each status may be displayed using an image or by a change in the display mode of the service card 11 (e.g., a change in color, density, size, or brightness).

[0044] Also, in FIG. 8, below the status column 15F, a message status column 15G is displayed, which indicates the status of messages sent using a communication function, which will be described later. If there are messages that the user has not yet viewed, the message status column 15G displays the words "unread." If the user has viewed all messages, no words are displayed in the message status column 15G. Alternatively, if the user has viewed all messages, the word "read" may be displayed in the message status column 15G. The message status may be indicated by an image or by a change in the display mode of the service card 11 (for example, a change in color, density, size, or brightness).

[0045] Furthermore, the project list screen provides a project icon 15H for each project. When the user selects a project by designating the project icon 15H, a project details screen as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed. If multiple service cards 11 are selected for the selected project, multiple project details screens may be displayed. Alternatively, the project details screens may be displayed in a switchable manner. FIG. 9 shows the project details screen when project A is selected. The project details screen displays information item columns 16A, and the set information items are included in the information item columns 16A. In FIG. 9, the information item columns 16A display information items such as quantity, service category, purpose, construction method, material, whether post-processing is required, whether post-processing is required, and work conditions such as equipment. Information items other than work conditions include contact information, requester name, work identification information (e.g., management number or work ID) that identifies the requested work, and the model number of the item.

[0046] [Service selection method] The service selection unit 33 selects a service to be provided from a group of service candidates in response to a user request. The service selection unit 33 also selects a service using service information and selection information acquired based on a user instruction. Specifically, the service selection unit 33 presents at least some of the services included in the group of service candidates to the user as options for service selection. At this time, the service selection unit 33 uses the service information so that the service information is presented to the user in association with the presented options. For example, the service selection unit 33 uses the service information so that the service information is displayed in a portion of the service card 11. The service selection unit 33 then presents the service information to the user by displaying the service information in a portion of the service card 11.

[0047] Furthermore, the service selection unit 33 acquires, as the selection information, service identification information that identifies the service selected by the user. As an example, the service identification information is card identification information that identifies the service card 11. For example, when the user designates a service card 11, the service selection unit 33 acquires the card identification information of the designated service card 11 and selects a service. Then, the service selection unit 33 stores the card identification information of the designated service card 11 in the server memory 22. Specifically, on the service card list screen shown in FIG. 4 , the user designates the service card 11 found by referring to the service information. A check box 11F is provided for the service card 11, and when the user designates the service card 11, the check box 11F is checked. Then, the service selection unit 33 displays an image that resembles the selected service card 11 in the selected card field 11C. Then, the service selection unit 33 acquires the card identification information of the service card 11 in the selected card field 11C.

[0048] Furthermore, when the AI ​​automatically selects a service using service information, the service selection unit 33 may select the service according to the service identification information specified by the AI's selection. In this case, the service selection unit 33 may not present the service card 11 to the user as an option. For example, when the service card 11 is not presented, the AI ​​may identify the service based on keywords entered by the user in the search box 11E. Alternatively, when the user logs in to the transaction assistance system 100 and does not present the service card 11, the AI ​​may identify the service using user information (e.g., past transaction history). When the AI ​​identifies the service card 11, the service selection unit 33 displays an image of the selected service card 11 in the selected card field 11C. Then, the service selection unit 33 acquires the card identification information of the service card 11 in the selected card field 11C.

[0049] Once the selection of the service card is complete, the user designates the card confirmation icon 11D on the service card list screen. Then, in response to the designation of the card confirmation icon 11D, the management unit 37 generates a project in association with the service selected by the service selection unit 33. For example, the management unit 37 associates the card identification information with project identification information that identifies the project and stores the associated information in the server memory 22. As a result, the generated project includes the selected service. Note that the management unit 37 may also associate the service selected by the service selection unit 33 with an existing project that has already been created.

[0050] [Request acquisition means] The request acquisition unit 34 acquires request information based on a user instruction. The request information is information for identifying a user request for an information item set corresponding to a service selected by the service selection unit 33. For example, the request information is upload data designated by the user by uploading it on the project list screen (FIG. 8). The request information is also information (e.g., product specifications) designated by the user by selecting or inputting information items on the project details screen (FIG. 9). Note that the user instruction is not limited to instructions made by uploading, selecting, or inputting. The user instruction may also be an instruction made by the user confirming information automatically selected or input by the system or information that has been initially set.

[0051] Furthermore, when an item-related service is selected, the request acquisition unit 34 acquires model data and work conditions based on a user's instruction. For example, the request acquisition unit 34 acquires, as request information, 3D or 2D model data uploaded via the project list screen and work conditions selected or entered via the project details screen. As described above, the work conditions are information specifying the conditions for work that a supplier should perform on an item. For example, when an item manufacturing service is selected, the work conditions are manufacturing conditions such as the manufacturing method.

[0052] [Article image presentation means] The request acquisition unit 34 includes an item image presentation unit 34A that presents an item image that represents an item based on model data to the user. For example, the item image presentation unit 34A displays an item image represented by 2D model data on the display unit of the user terminal 40. Furthermore, when the request acquisition unit 34 acquires three-dimensional model data as model data, the item image presentation unit 34A presents an image of the item observed from a predetermined viewpoint in the 3D model data as the item image.

[0053] As an example, in the project details screen shown in FIG. 9, a model display field 16B is displayed on the left side of the information item field 16A in FIG. 9. A 3D model 16C is displayed in the model display field 16B. The user can change the viewpoint from which the 3D model 16C is observed by specifying a viewpoint icon 16D in the model display field 16B. Alternatively, the viewpoint from which the 3D model 16C is observed may be changed by the user moving the 3D model 16C. The product image presentation unit 34A then presents to the user an product image representing the product observed from a predetermined viewpoint based on the model data. Furthermore, when the viewpoint is changed, the product image presentation unit 34A presents to the user an product image representing the product observed from the changed viewpoint.

[0054] Here, if the user wants to create a note for the supplier, the user designates the image creation icon 16E. The note data generation unit 34B then displays the product image screen shown in FIG. 10. The product image screen includes a note tool 17E as a function provided by the note data generation unit 34B. On the product image screen, the user can also change the viewpoint from which the 3D model 17C is viewed by designating a viewpoint icon 17H. The product image presentation unit 34A then presents the product image viewed from the changed viewpoint to the user. After completing editing, such as adding elements to the product image displayed corresponding to the desired viewpoint, the user operates the note tool 17E (e.g., a capture icon included in the note tool 17E) to capture or extract the note image 17D. The product image presentation unit 34A then saves the note image 17D and displays a thumbnail image 17I of the note image 17D. When the user then designates the thumbnail image 17I of the note image 17D, the product image presentation unit 34A displays the note image 17D.

[0055] [Note data generation means and note data acquisition means] The request acquisition unit 34 includes an annotation data generation unit 34B and an annotation data acquisition unit 34C. The annotation data generation unit 34B generates annotation data for displaying an annotation image 17D in which annotation information is written for the item image presented by the item image presentation unit 34A, based on a user instruction. The annotation information is information indicating a user request regarding at least a portion of the work conditions. Furthermore, the annotation data acquisition unit 34C acquires the annotation data generated by the annotation data generation unit 34B.

[0056] As an example, in the product image screen shown in FIG. 10, an image display field 17B is displayed to the left of the information item field 17A in FIG. 10. A 3D model 17C is displayed in the image display field 17B. The user adds annotation information using an annotation tool 17E and an editing tool 17F, which are functions provided by the annotation data generation unit 34B. Specifically, the annotation data generation unit 34B displays the annotation tool 17E and the editing tool 17F on the product image screen, and the user adds annotation information by specifying each tool icon. The user then captures or extracts the image, and the annotation data generation unit 34B generates annotation data.

[0057] For example, the annotation tool 17E can add rectangular elements, text, circular or elliptical elements, line elements, arrow elements, change colors, delete elements, and capture or extract images. The annotation data generation unit 34B can then assign a title to an annotation image 17D containing an item image and annotation information and store it in the server memory 22. The annotation image 17D may also be attached to a message created using a communication function provided by the communication unit 36A. In this case, when the annotation image 17D is captured or extracted, the annotation data generation unit 34B causes the communication unit 36A to attach the annotation image 17D to the message. The editing tool 17F can also delete design and manufacturing information, toggle display and non-display of design and manufacturing information, add dimensions all at once, add dimensions individually, set an origin, change font size, and create 2D drawings. The design and manufacturing information is information used for design or manufacturing, such as dimensions, origins, and tolerances.

[0058] In the example of Figure 10, a circle element, an arrow element, and text have been added. The user can communicate the location and direction of the load to the supplier using the text "Load is applied in the direction indicated by the arrow" and the arrow element. Furthermore, the user can communicate the location of the surface to be processed to the supplier using the circle element. After presenting the annotation image 17D, the user may be able to change the viewpoint by selecting the viewpoint icon 17H in the image display field 17B. In this case, the product image presenting unit 34A re-presents an image of the product observed from a different viewpoint.

[0059] Once editing of the product image is complete, the user selects the capture icon of the annotation tool 17E. The annotation data generation unit 34B then generates annotation data for displaying the annotation image 17D, including annotation information for each element. At this time, the annotation data generation unit 34B generates the annotation data so that it includes viewpoint information that identifies the viewpoint. Furthermore, the annotation data generation unit 34B stores the generated annotation data in the server memory 22. Because the viewpoint information is included in the annotation data, when a supplier views the annotation image 17D, the annotation image 17D can be displayed from the same viewpoint as the user's viewpoint. Note that in FIG. 10 , a status field 17J is displayed below the image creation icon 17G, displaying the text "Specifications being finalized" as the status corresponding to the service card 11 of the selected project. Also, a request icon 17K for requesting a quote from a supplier is displayed below the status field 17J. The user selects the request icon 17K to request a quote from a supplier.

[0060] Note that a note program separate from the support program PG may cause the user terminal control unit 45 or the server control unit 23 to function as the item image presenting unit 34A or the note data generating unit 34B. Furthermore, the item image presenting unit 34A or the note data generating unit 34B may be provided in an external server separate from the transaction support server 20. In this case, the note data acquiring unit 34C acquires the note data generated by the note data generating unit 34B from the external server.

[0061] [Method of confirmation] The confirmation unit 36 ​​confirms the provision requirements for the supplier to provide the service based on the request information acquired by the request acquisition unit 34. For example, when the user completes input of the request information, the confirmation unit 36 ​​notifies the supplier terminal 60 of the supplier associated with the project via the service card 11 of a confirmation request to confirm the provision requirements. The confirmation request can be notified to the supplier terminal 60 by a message using the communication function provided by the communication unit 36A or by other communication means such as email. The supplier creates the quotation content by referring to the request information and performs an operation to respond to the quotation to the user. The confirmation unit 36 ​​then notifies the user terminal 40 of the quotation response. The user then downloads, for example, a quotation from the transaction support server 20 to the user terminal 40 as a response to the confirmation request and confirms it. Then, when the user confirms the quotation content included in the quotation and performs a confirmation operation such as confirming the requirements or placing an order, the confirmation unit 36 ​​confirms the provision requirements and stores the confirmation information in the server memory 22.

[0062] As an example, when the user designates the request icon 17K and completes input of the request information, the confirmation unit 36 ​​notifies the supplier terminal 60 of a request for quotation as a confirmation request. The confirmation unit 36 ​​may also notify the supplier terminal 60 of project identification information of the project corresponding to the quotation request. Note that when there are multiple suppliers associated with the project, the confirmation unit 36 ​​notifies the supplier terminals 60 of the multiple suppliers of the confirmation request.

[0063] The supplier can check the notification by logging in to the transaction support system 100 via the supplier terminal 60. As an example, FIG. 11 shows a project list screen that is displayed when logging in to the transaction support system 100. The project list screen displays a number of projects column 18A, and a support project column 18B and a quotation project column 18C are displayed below the number of projects column 18A in FIG. 11. The supplier can then check the quotation project column 18C to check the notification. Note that multiple projects may be displayed in the support project column 18B and the quotation project column 18C, and the supplier can display the desired project on the project list screen by scrolling or other operations.

[0064] As an example, the number column 18A displays the number of projects for which suppliers have not yet responded to estimates, the number of projects for which estimate work is in progress, the number of projects for which the delivery requirements have been determined and requests have been received from users, and the number of projects for which requests have been received from users but the delivery date has not yet been determined.

[0065] The support case column 18B displays projects for which support work has occurred after the service has been provided, and case items corresponding to the projects. The case items include project-related information such as the requester's name and the service content, such as "tool prototype." The case items also include the current project status 18D. In the example of FIG. 11, the statuses "Shipped," "Specifications being finalized," "Estimation in progress," and "Estimation completed" are displayed as the status 18D. Also, in FIG. 11, below the status 18D, a supplier chat icon 18E and information indicating whether there are any unread messages (for example, the character "Not yet" is displayed if there are any unread messages) are displayed. The supplier can use the communication function provided by the communication unit 36A by specifying the supplier chat icon 18E.

[0066] Furthermore, the project item includes a data download icon 18F for downloading model data and a specification download icon 18G for downloading specifications. A supplier can select the data download icon 18F to download model data uploaded by a user from the transaction support server 20 to the supplier terminal 60. A supplier can also select the specification download icon 18G to download specifications created by the supplier or the transaction support system 100 from the transaction support server 20 to the supplier terminal 60. In addition, in FIG. 11, a response icon 18H is displayed to the right of each project. A supplier can select the response icon 18H to create a response to a support request.

[0067] The quotation request field 18C also displays a current status 18D, a supplier chat icon 18E, information indicating whether there are any unread messages, a data download icon 18F, a specification download icon 18G, and a response icon 18H. Unlike the support request field 18B, the project items in the quotation request field 18C include the quotation receipt date, the quotation response date, and the elapsed time. The confirmation unit 36 ​​notifies the supplier of a confirmation request by displaying the project in the quotation request field 18C. The confirmation unit 36 ​​may notify the supplier of the confirmation request using another notification method in addition to or instead of the quotation request field 18C. The supplier can create a response to the quotation request as a confirmation request by selecting the response icon 18H.

[0068] As an example, a supplier can create a response on the project details screen shown in FIG. 12. When the response icon 18H is selected, the determination unit 36 ​​displays the project details screen and the request information field 19A on the project details screen. The determination unit 36 ​​then displays the request information acquired by the request acquisition unit 34 to the supplier in the request information field 19A. The user selects or inputs the request information for the information items required by the supplier to determine the provision requirements. Therefore, the supplier can guide the user to select or input the information required by the supplier. This reduces the possibility of the supplier having to make inquiries to the user.

[0069] Also, in the upper right part of Fig. 12, a project content field 19B showing the details of the project is displayed. Suppliers can check the project content field 19B to understand the status of the project, etc. Furthermore, in the center part of Fig. 12, an attachment data download icon 19C is displayed for downloading data attached to the message, such as an item image attached by the communication unit 36A. Suppliers can select the attachment data download icon 19C to download the attached data from the transaction support server 20 to the supplier terminal 60.

[0070] Furthermore, in FIG. 12, an input field 19D is displayed below the project content field 19B, allowing the supplier to enter quotation details. The confirmation unit 36 ​​displays the items for the supplier to enter quotation details in the input field 19D. In the example of FIG. 12, the supplier enters the quotation details, including the unit price of the item, the number of actual work days representing the time required for delivery, and any necessary remarks. The quantity is entered when there is a unit price corresponding to the quantity. For example, the supplier enters the quantity when the unit price differs between 1 to 5 units and 5 or more units. In the example of FIG. 12, the unit price and number of actual work days are entered only for a quantity of 1. However, the input field 19D may be configured to allow the entry of a unit price and number of actual work days for multiple quantity conditions or ranges. The supplier can also enter a string of characters indicating a reply, question, or suggestion to the user in the remarks field 19H.

[0071] In input field 19D, the supplier can input the quantity, unit price, number of working days, etc. in a manner that specifies a range. For example, there may be a range in the estimated time until the number of working days can be provided. In such a case, the supplier can input a range such as 5 to 6 days. This allows the supplier to input an estimate without informing the user of the range, even if the information to be input has a range.

[0072] Also, an icon column 19E is displayed at the bottom of FIG. 12. By designating each icon, the supplier can, for example, preview a quotation on the display unit of the supplier terminal 60. Furthermore, by designating an icon, the supplier can preview a product specification, temporarily save the entered quotation details, and display the quotation details for confirmation. After the quotation details are displayed and final confirmation is completed, the supplier operates the quotation reply to the user on the screen (not shown) displaying the quotation details. Then, the confirmation unit 36 ​​saves the quotation as the quotation details and the product specifications indicating the provision requirements in the server memory 22, and notifies the user terminal 40 of the quotation reply.

[0073] The confirmation unit 36 ​​also confirms the provision requirements based on a requirement confirmation instruction from at least one of the user and the supplier. The confirmation unit 36 ​​then stores confirmation information indicating the confirmed provision requirements in the predetermined server memory 22 so that the user and the supplier can confirm it. For example, to respond to a quotation reply, the user downloads a quotation and product specifications from the transaction support server 20 to the user terminal 40 and confirms them. The user then confirms the quotation and product specifications and performs a confirmation operation as an instruction to confirm the requirements. In response to the confirmation operation, the confirmation unit 36 ​​confirms the provision requirements and stores the product specifications as confirmation information indicating the confirmed provision requirements in the server memory 22 so that the user and the supplier can confirm it. The confirmation unit 36 ​​also stores the quotation together with the product specifications in the server memory 22 so that the user and the supplier can confirm it.

[0074] After confirmation, the user may upload the revised quotation or product specifications as request information or attach them to the message. The request acquisition unit 34 acquires the revised quotation or product specifications, and the confirmation unit 36 ​​presents them to the supplier, just like other request information. The supplier downloads the revised quotation or product specifications from the transaction support server 20 to the supplier terminal 60 and confirms them. The supplier then confirms the revised quotation or product specifications and performs a confirmation operation to instruct the supplier to confirm the requirements. In response to the confirmation operation, the confirmation unit 36 ​​stores the product specifications as confirmed information indicating the confirmed requirements in the server memory 22 so that the user and the supplier can confirm them. The confirmation unit 36 ​​also stores the quotation together with the product specifications in the server memory 22 so that the user and the supplier can confirm them.

[0075] [Method for presenting annotation images] The determination unit 36 ​​includes an annotation image presenting unit 36B that presents to the supplier an annotation image 17D ( FIG. 10 ) based on the acquired annotation data. For example, in FIG. 12 , an annotation data field 19F is displayed below the attached data download icon 19C. The supplier specifies a thumbnail image representing the annotation image 17D displayed in the annotation data field 19F. The annotation image presenting unit 36B then presents the annotation image 17D to the supplier by displaying it on the display unit of the supplier terminal 60. At this time, the annotation image 17D presented by the annotation image presenting unit 36B is displayed in a state in which the user has edited it on the item image screen shown in FIG. 10 and the annotation data generating unit 34B has stored it in the server memory 22.

[0076] That is, the annotation image presenting unit 36B presents to the supplier an annotation image 17D from a viewpoint corresponding to the viewpoint information included in the annotation data stored in the server memory 22. For example, the annotation image presenting unit 36B refers to the viewpoint information of the annotation data and presents the annotation image 17D so as to include an image of the product viewed from the viewpoint specified by the viewpoint information. Note that the annotation image 17D includes information added by the user through editing, such as added elements and text. Therefore, the annotation image presenting unit 36B displays this information simultaneously with the product image.

[0077] The note data field 19F also includes an add icon 19G for adding a note image 17D to the product specification. When the supplier selects the add icon 19G, the confirmation unit 36 ​​adds the note image 17D to the product specification. As an example, the confirmation unit 36 ​​saves the product specification in the server memory 22 so that the note image 17D is included in the note image field 19R at the bottom of the product specification in FIG. 13 . This causes the note image 17D stored in the server memory 22 to be attached to the product specification. In this case, if there are multiple note images 17D, the supplier may select one of the note images 17D to attach to the product specification. Note that the product specification is data indicating work conditions and may be called an item specification, specification, manufacturing specification, processing specification, or the like. In the example of FIG. 13 , the product specification includes a project content field 19S indicating the delivery requirements and project content, and a remarks field 19T. The remarks column 19T shows the contents of the remarks entered by the supplier in the input column 19D of the case details screen (FIG. 12).

[0078] Furthermore, the annotation image presenting unit 36B may be able to change the presentation mode of the annotation image 17D based on instructions from the supplier so that the item is displayed from a viewpoint different from the viewpoint information included in the annotation data. For example, the annotation image presenting unit 36B displays a viewpoint icon 16D as shown in FIG. 9 together with the annotation image 17D. The supplier can change the viewpoint by specifying the viewpoint icon 16D. The annotation image presenting unit 36B displays an item image of the item observed from the changed viewpoint. At this time, the presentation mode of information added by the user through editing may be changed. Specifically, the annotation image presenting unit 36B may change the position or orientation of the element, or hide the element.

[0079] For example, if the supplier changes the viewpoint to one that makes it impossible to observe the part indicated by the arrow element, the annotation image presenting unit 36B may not display the arrow element or may change the position or orientation of the element. In this case, the annotation data generating unit 34B may generate new annotation data and store it in the server memory 22, or may overwrite and store the existing annotation data. The annotation image presenting unit 36B presents the supplier with an annotation image 17D from a viewpoint corresponding to the viewpoint information included in the annotation data.

[0080] [Means of communication] The determination unit 36 ​​has a communication unit 36A that provides a communication function (also referred to as a communication function in this specification) for adjusting the provision requirements based on the request information. The communication unit 36A provides the communication function between the user and the supplier that is set corresponding to the selected service. As an example, the communication function is a function for transmitting text, voice, image, or other data between the user and the supplier.

[0081] For example, a user chat icon 16F is displayed at the bottom of the project details screen shown in FIG. 9. When a user selects the user chat icon 16F, the communication unit 36A displays a user chat area 17L for inputting or uploading data to be sent from the user to the supplier. As an example, the communication unit 36A displays the user chat area 17L as shown in FIG. 10. In the example of FIG. 10, the user chat area 17L includes a user message field 17M, a user chat tool 17N, a user topic tool 17P, and a user send icon 17Q. The user can input a message in the user message field 17M, and the message input by the supplier is displayed in the user message field 17M. This allows the supplier and the user to communicate with each other.

[0082] Additionally, a user can use the user chat tool 17N to select and attach data to a message, capture or extract and save an image of an item, and launch the note tool 17E. Furthermore, a user can create a new topic using the user topic tool 17P. The communication unit 36A displays messages between the user and the supplier for each topic. Therefore, the supplier and the user can communicate with each other through messages for each topic. After creating a message, the user selects the user send icon 17Q, and the communication unit 36A sends the message to the supplier.

[0083] A supplier chat icon 18E is displayed on a screen displayed on the supplier terminal 60, for example, on the project list screen shown in FIG. 11. When the supplier selects the supplier chat icon 18E, the communication unit 36A displays a supplier chat area 19L for inputting or uploading data to be sent from the supplier to the user. As an example, the communication unit 36A displays the supplier chat area 19L as shown in FIG. 12. In the example of FIG. 12, the supplier chat area 19L includes a supplier message field 19M, a supplier chat tool 19N, a supplier topic tool 19P, and a supplier send icon 19Q. The supplier can enter a message in the supplier message field 19M, and the message entered by the user is displayed in the supplier message field 19M. This allows the supplier and the user to communicate with each other.

[0084] In addition, suppliers can use the supplier chat tool 19N to select data and attach it to a message. Furthermore, suppliers can use the supplier topic tool 19P to create new topics. The communication unit 36A displays messages between users and suppliers for each topic. After creating a message, the supplier selects the supplier send icon 19Q, and the communication unit 36A sends the message to the user.

[0085] Furthermore, if the provision requirements include at least one of a delivery date and a quote for the service as the supplier's acceptance conditions, the communication unit 36A provides a communication function to give the supplier an opportunity to present the acceptance conditions to the user. In the example of FIG. 12, a question message regarding the delivery date entered by the user and a reply message entered by the supplier are displayed in the supplier message field 19M. Here, "one week" is the supplier's acceptance condition, and the communication unit 36A sends a message including the acceptance conditions to the user. This allows the communication unit 36A to give the supplier an opportunity to present the acceptance conditions to the user. The delivery date includes the number of working days described above.

[0086] The quotation, which is a condition for acceptance, includes the quantity, unit price, quality, total amount, etc., and the communication unit 36A sends a message including the quotation to the user. Alternatively, the communication unit 36A may send the message to the user by attaching data indicating the delivery date or the quotation to the message. The mutual communication of messages by the communication unit 36A may be performed directly in real time between the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60, or may be performed via the transaction support server 20. A communication program separate from the support program PG may cause the user terminal control unit 45 or the server control unit 23 to function as the communication unit 36A. Furthermore, the communication unit 36A may be provided in an external server separate from the transaction support server 20. In this case, the mutual communication of messages is performed via the external server.

[0087] [Management means] The management unit 37 generates a project in association with the service selection by the service selection unit 33. The management unit 37 also manages communication via the communication unit 36A by project, so that each user and supplier can select a project and communicate. As an example, the management unit 37 generates project data 25 (FIG. 2), assigns project identification information to the project data 25, and stores the project data in the server memory 22. The management unit 37 then includes message data 25E in the project data 25, along with request information 25A, confirmation information 25B, model data 25C, and note data 25D. Furthermore, the management unit 37 includes the above-mentioned case items in the project data 25 as the contents of the project.

[0088] When a user or supplier selects a project and uses the communication function, the communication unit 36A uses the project identification information of the selected project to refer to message data 25E included in the project data 25. This allows the communication unit 36A to present messages created in the selected project to the user and supplier. Furthermore, when the user or supplier creates a new message, the management unit 37 stores the message in the server memory 22 by including it in the message data 25E. This allows the management unit 37 to manage communications separately for each project.

[0089] [Storage means] As shown in Fig. 2, the server memory 22 stores a support program PG, card data 24, project data 25, and requirement data 26. The card data 24 is created by a supplier or an administrator of the transaction support server 20, and in the example of Fig. 2, includes content information 24A, supplier information 24B, and case information 24C. The project data 25 includes requirement information 25A, confirmation information 25B, model data 25C, note data 25D, and message data 25E. The requirement data 26 includes information item data 26A.

[0090] [User terminal and supplier terminal] The user terminal 40 includes a user terminal control unit 45 that controls the user terminal 40, and a user terminal memory 44, which is an example of a user terminal storage unit that stores a control program (not shown). The user terminal control unit 45 is configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control in accordance with a predetermined program, with other peripheral devices. The user terminal 40 also includes a user terminal display 46, which is an example of a display unit that displays web pages generated by the transaction support server 20.

[0091] Furthermore, the user terminal 40 is equipped with a user terminal communication unit 47, which is an example of a communication device that transmits and receives data to and from the transaction support server 20. The user terminal 40 may transmit and receive data directly to and from the supplier terminal 60 via the user terminal communication unit 47. The user terminal 40 is also equipped with an input unit (not shown), which is an example of an input device that includes a keyboard or various switches for inputting commands and data. Note that a display unit such as a touch panel may also function as the input unit.

[0092] The supplier terminal 60 includes a supplier terminal control unit 65 that controls the supplier terminal 60, and a supplier terminal memory 64 that is an example of a supplier terminal storage unit that stores a control program (not shown). The supplier terminal control unit 65 is configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program, and other peripheral devices. The supplier terminal 60 also includes a supplier terminal display 66 that is an example of a display unit that displays web pages generated by the transaction support server 20.

[0093] Furthermore, the supplier terminal 60 is equipped with a supplier terminal communication unit 67, which is an example of a communication device that transmits and receives data to and from the transaction support server 20. The supplier terminal 60 may transmit and receive data directly to and from the user terminal 40 via the supplier terminal communication unit 67. The supplier terminal 60 is also equipped with an input unit (not shown), which is an example of an input device that includes a keyboard or various switches for inputting commands and data. Note that a display unit such as a touch panel may function as the input unit.

[0094] The user terminal control unit 45 and the supplier terminal control unit 65 are similar to the server control unit 23 in that they are configured as computers including a processor such as a CPU. Furthermore, the user terminal memory 44 and the supplier terminal memory 64 are similar to the server memory 22 in that they are configured as computer-readable non-transitory storage media including a ROM or HDD. Therefore, detailed descriptions of the user terminal control unit 45, the supplier terminal control unit 65, and the user terminal memory 44 and the supplier terminal memory 64 will be omitted.

[0095] [Transaction support flow] An example of a transaction support flow by transaction support system 100 will be described with reference to Figure 14. First, a supplier or an administrator of transaction support server 20 inputs services to be included in a service candidate group and service information corresponding to the services into transaction support server 20. Then, service setting unit 31 sets service cards 11, which serve as information for allowing a user to understand the input services, in association with the service information (S101). As a result, service setting unit 31 sets a service candidate group including multiple services in association with the service information for each service.

[0096] Furthermore, the supplier or an administrator of the transaction support server 20 inputs information items for each set service card 11. Then, the information item setting unit 32 sets the input information items as items for which the user can input or select requested information (S102). As a result, the information item setting unit 32 sets information items for each service included in the service candidate group. Next, the service selection unit 33 displays a service candidate group including multiple service cards 11 on the service card list screen (FIG. 4) of the web page accessed by the user (S103). As a result, the service selection unit 33 presents each service included in the service candidate group to the user as an option for service selection.

[0097] The user searches using keywords or specifies a service card 11 and refers to the displayed service content screen (FIG. 5), supplier screen (FIG. 6), or case example screen (FIG. 7). The user then selects a service card 11 corresponding to the desired service from the multiple service cards 11 presented. In response to the selection, the service selection unit 33 acquires service specification information (e.g., card identification information) that specifies the service selected by the user. The service selection unit 33 then selects the service specified by the service specification information from the service candidate group (S104).

[0098] Once the selection of the service card is complete, the user designates the card confirmation icon 11D on the service card list screen. Then, the management unit 37 generates a project in association with the service selection by the service selection unit 33. As a result, the selected service is included in the project. Then, a project list screen (FIG. 8) including the project generated by the management unit 37 is displayed on the user terminal 40. Furthermore, when the user selects a project on the project list screen, a project details screen (FIG. 9) is displayed. The user uploads 3D model data on the project list screen and selects or inputs required information for the information items displayed on the project details screen.

[0099] The request acquisition unit 34 acquires the request information based on the user's instructions by acquiring the 3D model data and the information selected or input by the user (S105). This facilitates communication between the user and the supplier. If the user desires to communicate with the supplier (YES in S106), the user designates the user chat icon 16F on the project details screen. Then, the communication unit 36A activates the communication function (S107) and displays the user chat area 17L (FIG. 10). When the user inputs a message and designates the user send icon 17Q, the communication unit 36A sends the message to the supplier.

[0100] Furthermore, even if the user does not wish to communicate with the supplier (NO in S107), the user may wish to create an annotation image 17D (YES in S108). In this case, the user designates the image creation icon 16E on the project details screen. The product image presentation unit 34A then displays the product image screen (FIG. 10). The product image screen includes an annotation tool 17E as a function provided by the annotation data generation unit 34B. On the product image screen, the user changes the viewpoint from which the 3D model 17C is observed. The product image presentation unit 34A then displays the product image as observed from the changed viewpoint (S109).

[0101] Furthermore, the user adds necessary elements using the annotation tool 17E. After that, the user operates the annotation tool 17E to capture or extract an image, and the annotation data generation unit 34B generates annotation data for displaying the annotation image 17D (S110). Then, the annotation data acquisition unit 34C acquires the generated annotation data (S111). Note that the user can freely communicate with the supplier and create the annotation image 17D. Also, either communication using the communication function or creation of the annotation data can be performed first.

[0102] Thereafter, when the user selects the request icon 17K to complete the input of the request information, the confirmation unit 36 ​​notifies the supplier terminal 60 of the request for quotation as a confirmation request (S112). The supplier identifies the project for which the quotation was requested on the project list screen (FIG. 11). The supplier then selects the reply icon 18H, and the confirmation unit 36 ​​displays the project details screen (FIG. 12). The project details screen displays the request information field 19A, preventing the supplier from requesting further information from the user. This allows the user's accurate requests to be presented to the supplier with minimal processing. Note that when the supplier selects a thumbnail image representing the note image 17D displayed in the note data field 19F on the project details screen, the note image presentation unit 36B presents the note image 17D. The supplier can also communicate with the user using the supplier chat area 19L.

[0103] The supplier inputs the quotation details via the input field 19D. The supplier may also select the add icon 19G to add a note image 17D to the product specifications. Upon completing the quotation, the supplier performs an operation to send a quotation reply to the user. The confirmation unit 36 ​​then stores the quotation as the quotation details and the product specifications indicating the provision requirements in the server memory 22, and notifies the user terminal 40 of the quotation reply (S113). The user downloads the quotation and the product specifications from the transaction support server 20 to the user terminal 40 and checks them. If there are no problems, the user performs a confirmation operation to instruct the requirements to be confirmed. The confirmation unit 36 ​​then confirms the provision requirements (S114), and stores the product specifications as confirmed information indicating the confirmed provision requirements in the server memory 22 so that the user and the supplier can confirm them. This completes the process. The user's confirmation operation may also be an operation to order the provision of a service. This operation can be performed on an order screen (not shown) displayed by the confirmation unit 36.

[0104] The transaction support system 100 according to the embodiment described above can match the services desired by the user with the services that can be provided by the supplier. This allows the services that can be provided by the supplier to match the services desired by the user, simplifying the adjustment work required to conclude a transaction and preventing discrepancies from being discovered after the transaction has been concluded.

[0105] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to each embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The present invention also includes inventions that have been modified without departing from the scope of the present invention, and inventions equivalent to the present invention. Furthermore, each embodiment and each modified form can be combined as appropriate without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0106] For example, some of the functional units of the transaction support server 20 may be provided in at least one of the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60. As one example, the user terminal 40 may be provided with a request acquisition unit 34, and the user terminal 40 may transmit acquired request information to the transaction support server 20 or the supplier terminal 60. As another example, the supplier terminal 60 may be provided with a confirmation unit 36, and the supplier terminal memory 64 may store confirmation information indicating the confirmed provision requirements in the supplier terminal memory 64. In this case, the supplier terminal 60 may transmit the confirmation information to the transaction support server 20 or the supplier terminal 60.

[0107] Furthermore, when some of the functional units of transaction support server 20 are provided in at least one of user terminal 40 and supplier terminal 60, support program PG and a control program of at least one of user terminal 40 and supplier terminal 60 cooperate to function as a computer program of transaction support system 100. Transaction support system 100 is composed of transaction support server 20 and at least one of user terminal 40 and supplier terminal 60.

[0108] Furthermore, transaction support server 20 may further have a function for automatically creating quotation details. Suppliers can check the quotation created by this function, make any necessary corrections, and then submit a quotation response.

[0109] In this specification, the term "article" may refer to an object formed by combining a plurality of parts, or may refer to a single integrated object. The term "article" may also refer to an assembly such as a module or unit that is incorporated into a finished product to perform a function.

[0110] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0111] [Appendix 1] 1. A server device for supporting the establishment of a transaction between a supplier providing a service and a user requesting the provision of the service by determining provision requirements for the service between the supplier and the user, a service setting means for setting a group of service candidates including a plurality of services that can be provided to the user in association with service information of each service used in selecting the service; an information item setting means for setting information items required by the supplier to determine the provision requirements for each of the services included in the service candidate group; a service selection means for selecting the service to be provided in response to a request from the user from the service candidate group by using the service information and selection information acquired based on an instruction from the user; A server device comprising: a request acquisition means for acquiring request information for identifying the user's request for the information item set corresponding to the selected service based on an instruction from the user; and a determination means for determining the provision requirements based on the acquired request information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 22: Server memory (storage means) 23: Server control unit (computer) 31: Service setting unit (service setting means) 32: Information item setting section (information item setting means) 33: Service selection unit (service selection means) 34:Request acquisition unit (request acquisition means) 34A: Article image presentation unit (article image presentation means) 34B: Note data generation unit (note data generation means) 34C: Note data acquisition unit (note data acquisition means) 36: Determining part (determining means) 36A: Communication Department (Means of Communication) 36B: Note image presentation unit (note image presentation means) 37: Management department (management means) 100: Trading support system PG: Support program (computer program)

Claims

1. A transaction support system comprising a computer for supporting the conclusion of a transaction between a supplier that provides a goods-related service that requires work related to goods and a user that requests the provision of said goods-related service, The computer acquiring model data for identifying the item from a user terminal of the user; displaying, on the user terminal, an article image representing the article based on the model data and a user message input field; acquiring, from the user terminal, an instruction to add note information indicating a request from the user to the article image displayed on the user terminal; generating annotation data for displaying an annotation image in which the annotation information is written for the article image; displaying the annotation image based on the annotation data on a supplier terminal of the supplier; acquiring a user message input by the user in the user message input field from the user terminal; The transaction support system displays the user message on the supplier terminal.

2. The computer displaying a supplier message input field together with the user message on the supplier terminal; acquiring a supplier message input by the supplier in the supplier message input field from the supplier terminal; The transaction support system according to claim 1 , wherein the supplier message is displayed on the user terminal.

3. The computer obtaining the supplier message including the supplier's terms of acceptance; The transaction support system according to claim 2 , wherein the supplier message including the acceptance conditions is displayed on the user terminal.

4. The computer displaying, on the user terminal, the product image, the user message input field, and an information item field required by the supplier to determine the product-related service provision requirements; acquiring request information from the user terminal for identifying the user's request for the information item field; 4. The transaction support system according to claim 1, wherein the request information is displayed on the supplier terminal.

5. The information items shown in the information item column include a work condition item for specifying the conditions of the work to be performed by the supplier in relation to the item, The computer 5. A transaction support system according to claim 4, wherein the work conditions inputted in the work condition items are acquired as the request information from the user terminal.

6. A computer program for a transaction support system including a computer, for supporting the conclusion of a transaction between a supplier that provides a product-related service that requires work related to a product and a user that requests the provision of the product-related service, the computer program comprising: The computer, acquiring model data for identifying the item from a user terminal of the user; displaying, on the user terminal, an article image representing the article based on the model data and a user message input field; acquires, from the user terminal, an instruction to add note information indicating a request from the user to the article image displayed on the user terminal; generating annotation data for displaying an annotation image in which the annotation information is written for the article image; displaying the annotation image based on the annotation data on a supplier terminal of the supplier; acquires from the user terminal a user message input by the user in the user message input field; A computer program for a transaction support system that causes the user message to be displayed on the supplier terminal.

7. A method for controlling a transaction support system, the method comprising: providing a computer; and supporting the establishment of a transaction between a supplier that provides a product-related service that requires work related to a product and a user that requests the provision of the product-related service, the method comprising: The computer acquiring model data for identifying the item from a user terminal of the user; displaying, on the user terminal, an article image representing the article based on the model data and a user message input field; acquiring, from the user terminal, an instruction to add note information indicating a request from the user to the article image displayed on the user terminal; generating annotation data for displaying an annotation image in which the annotation information is written for the article image; displaying the annotation image based on the annotation data on a supplier terminal of the supplier; acquiring a user message input by the user in the user message input field from the user terminal; A control method for a transaction support system, which causes the user message to be displayed on the supplier terminal.

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