Ticket vending device, input screen display method, and program

Abstract

To provide a ticket vending machine capable of easily purchasing a service through a network, an input screen display method and a program.SOLUTION: In a network system in which a system management server, a station management server, a taxi management server, a hotel management server and a rent-a-car company management server are connected communicably through a network, a ticket vending machine 100 includes a touch panel, a storage part for storing input screen information for hierarchically configuring an input screen for purchasing a service obtained by associating a plurality of services provided by an information processing device communicable with the touch panel in each input item, and a control part for displaying, on the touch panel, the input screen in which selected input items are hierarchically configured on the basis of the input screen information in the case that the input items displayed on the touch panel are inputted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments relate to a ticket vending machine, an input screen display method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] A travel plan suggestion device is known that generates a travel plan that is highly beneficial to a user by combining multiple types of services. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-197891 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] To use the aforementioned system, an information processing terminal device such as a smartphone is required. This is because an application program for receiving the service needs to be downloaded to such an information processing terminal device. Therefore, if a user does not have an information processing terminal device, if the user has an information processing terminal device but does not carry it with them, or if the battery is dead even if the user has an information processing terminal device, the user cannot receive the service.

[0005] The embodiments aim to provide a ticket vending machine, an input screen display method, and a program that allow a user to easily purchase a service that links multiple services via a network, even if the user does not have an information processing terminal device, has an information processing terminal device but does not carry it, or has an information processing terminal device but the battery is dead. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, a ticket vending machine includes a touch panel, a storage unit that stores input screen information in which an input screen for purchasing a service that links multiple services provided by an information processing device that can communicate with the touch panel is hierarchically structured for each input item, a control unit that, when an input item displayed on the touch panel is selected, displays an input screen on the touch panel that is hierarchically structured for the selected input item based on the input screen information, a reading unit that reads a two-dimensional code, and a credit card reading unit that reads information from a credit card. Equipped with A system management server that provides the services and the A station management server that manages ticket vending machines are communicatively connected. When the input for purchasing the service is completed, the control unit transmits purchase information including the two-dimensional code read by the reading unit, the passcode input by the user, and the credit card information read by the credit card reading unit to the system management server via the station management server, and links the service to the purchase information and registers it from the system management server to the station management server. to make . [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a network system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a station system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a control configuration of the ticket vending device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase information storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed hierarchically according to the embodiment. [Figure 23] 10 is a timing chart showing the timing of a process for linking a credit card with an IC card according to the embodiment. [Figure 24] 10 is a timing chart showing the timing of a process for linking a credit card with a QR code according to the embodiment. [Figure 25] 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a process when using a train with an IC card according to the embodiment. [Figure 26]10 is a timing chart showing an example of a process when using a taxi using a QR code according to the embodiment. [Figure 27] 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a process when renting a car using a QR code according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the disclosure is merely an example, and the invention is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiments. Modifications that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art are naturally included within the scope of the disclosure. For clearer explanation, the size, shape, etc. of each part may be changed from the actual embodiment and shown schematically in the drawings. In multiple drawings, corresponding elements may be given the same reference numerals, and detailed description may be omitted.

[0009] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network system. As shown in FIG. 1, the network system includes a system management server 10, a station management server 20, a management server (taxi) 30, a management server (hotel) 40, and a management server (car rental company) 50, and the system management server 10, the station management server 20, the management server 30, the management server 40, and the management server 50 are communicatively connected via a network 1. The station management server 20 is communicatively connected to a plurality of in-station systems 20a. Furthermore, the management server 30 is configured to be communicable with a plurality of taxis 31, the management server 40 is communicatively connected to a plurality of terminal devices 41, and the management server 50 is communicatively connected to a plurality of terminal devices 51.

[0010] The system management server 10 is an information processing device including a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, etc., and includes a purchase information storage unit 10a. The purchase information storage unit 10a will be described later. The system management server 10 manages the services provided by the station management server 20 and the management servers 30, 40, and 50 connected via the network 1 to seamlessly integrate them into a single service. Here, seamless refers to a state in which services, systems, software, etc., composed of multiple elements or a combination of multiple different providers, can be used as a single service without the user recognizing or being aware of the differences between them. An example of this service is MaaS (Mobility as a Service). MaaS is a technology that utilizes information and communication technology (ICT) to complete transportation by bus, train, taxi, airplane, etc., with a single service. In this embodiment, the seamless service that integrates the services provided by the station management server 20 and the management servers 30, 40, and 50 includes various services, such as hotels that provide accommodation services and mountain climbing tours, in addition to transportation services. In this embodiment, the network system will be described as including taxis, trains, and rental cars as means of transportation, but this is not limited to these and other transportation services such as the aforementioned buses and airplanes may also be included.

[0011] The station management server 20 is an information processing device including a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, etc. The station management server 20 manages users' train travel, etc., through an in-station system 20a installed at each station on each line. The station management server 20 also allows users to purchase services selected from seamless services provided by the system management server 10 via a ticket vending device 100 installed in the in-station system 20a. How the station management server 20 selects services can be set arbitrarily. For example, it is conceivable to select services for stations where the ticket vending device 100 managed by the station management server 20 is installed and services near the line including the station; more specifically, it is possible to select services for purchase of accommodations, entertainment facilities, mountain climbing tours, etc. along the line. Details of the in-station system 20a will be described later with reference to FIG. 2.

[0012] The management server 30 is an information processing device including a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, etc., and manages the taxi company's services (user transportation) provided to users using multiple taxis 31. The management server 30 manages, for example, taxi dispatch and settlement of usage fees after riding in the taxi. In this embodiment, the taxi 31 is provided with a two-dimensional code reader 21a and an IC card communication unit 21b. The two-dimensional code reader 31a and the IC card communication unit 31b may also be provided in a terminal device installed in the taxi 31. The taxi 31 driver can use the two-dimensional code reader 21a or the IC card communication unit 21b to allow the user to pay the usage fee using, for example, a two-dimensional code displayed on a smartphone or an IC card.

[0013] The management server 40 is an information processing device including a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, etc., and manages the services provided by a hotel or the like via multiple terminal devices 41 installed in the hotel or the like. The management server 40 manages, for example, reservations for hotel accommodations and settlement of fees after use. The terminal devices 41 are provided with a two-dimensional code reader 41a and an IC card communication unit 41b, and hotel staff or the like can use the two-dimensional code reader 41a or the IC card communication unit 41b of the terminal devices 41 to settle the fees paid by users, for example, using a two-dimensional code displayed on a smartphone or an IC card.

[0014] The management server 50 is an information processing device including a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, etc., and manages the services provided by the rental car company via a terminal device 51 installed at the rental car company (including a sales office). The management server 50 manages, for example, rental car reservations and the settlement of usage fees after rental car use. The terminal device 51 is provided with a two-dimensional code reader 51a and an IC card communication unit 51b, and employees of the rental car company can use the two-dimensional code reader 51a or the IC card communication unit 51b to settle the usage fee paid by the user, for example, using a two-dimensional code displayed on a smartphone or an IC card.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the in-station system 20a. As shown in Fig. 2, the in-station system 20a includes a plurality of ticket vending devices 100 and a plurality of automatic ticket gates 21. The plurality of ticket vending devices 100 and the plurality of automatic ticket gates 21 are each installed, for example, near the ticket gates of a station, and are connected to be able to communicate with the station management server 20. Note that in this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, a configuration will be described in which the station management server 20 communicates with the plurality of ticket vending devices 100 and the plurality of automatic ticket gates 21, respectively. However, a server may be provided that manages the plurality of ticket vending devices 100 and the plurality of automatic ticket gates 21 installed in the station, and the plurality of ticket vending devices 100 and the plurality of automatic ticket gates 21 may communicate with the station management server 20 via the server.

[0016] The ticket vending device 100 has a function of selling, for example, train tickets to users. In addition to this function, the ticket vending device 100 of this embodiment sells to users services selected by the station management server 20 from among the services managed by the system management server 10. Details of the ticket vending device 100 will be described later.

[0017] A plurality of automatic ticket gates 21 are installed in parallel at the entrances and exits to a station, for example, and the housings of each automatic ticket gate 21 form a passageway for users to enter and exit. A door (not shown) that can be stored in a storage compartment of the housing is provided on the side of each automatic ticket gate 21, and opening and closing the door restricts users from entering and exiting the station. The automatic ticket gate 21 is also provided with a two-dimensional code reader 21a and an IC card communication unit 21b. Users can enter and exit the station and pay for usage fees using, for example, a two-dimensional code displayed on a smartphone or an IC card. The automatic ticket gate 21 is also equipped with a control unit, a memory unit, a communication unit, etc., and is capable of communicating with the station management server 20.

[0018] Next, the ticket vending machine 100 will be described. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the control configuration of the ticket vending machine 100. As shown in Fig. 3, the ticket vending machine 100 has a control unit 101, a communication unit 102, a money processing unit (including a credit card reading unit) 103, a two-dimensional code reader 101a, an IC card communication unit 101b, a touch panel 104, and a memory unit 107. The touch panel 104 also has a display unit 105 and an input unit 106. The memory unit 107 also has an input screen information memory unit 107a and a map information memory unit 107b.

[0019] The control unit 101 controls the operation of the communication unit 102, the cash processing unit 103, the two-dimensional code reader 101a, the IC card communication unit 101b, the touch panel 104, and the memory unit 107 within the ticket vending device 100. The communication unit 102 controls communication with the station management server 20. The cash processing unit 103 handles the handling of bills, coins, and other bills, and performs payment procedures such as credit card transactions. The two-dimensional code reader 101a reads two-dimensional codes displayed on smartphones and other devices and decodes them. The IC card communication unit 101b wirelessly communicates with IC cards to perform payments. The touch panel 104 is an LCD display with an input device, including the display unit 105 and the input unit 106. The display unit 105 displays predetermined information to the user. In this embodiment, the display includes information for purchasing seamless services provided by the system management server 10. Details of this display will be described later. The input unit 106 is used by the user to input predetermined information. For example, the user touches an input item or the like displayed on the display unit 105 to input information designated by the user.

[0020] The storage unit 107 also stores various programs and data for the operation of the ticket vending device 100. In this embodiment, the storage unit 107 includes an input screen information storage unit 107a and a map information storage unit 107b, as described above. The input screen information storage unit 107a stores input screen information in which an input screen for purchasing a seamless service that links the services provided by the station management server 20 and the management servers 30, 40, and 50 is hierarchically configured for each input item. When an input is entered into an input item displayed on the touch panel 104 under the control of the control unit 101, the display unit 105 displays an input screen hierarchically configured for the selected input item on the touch panel 104 based on the input screen information stored in the input screen information storage unit 107a. Details of the input screen displayed on the display unit 105 will be described later.

[0021] The map information storage unit 107b stores map information that associates a service selected by the station management server 20 that manages the ticket vending device 100 from the services provided by the system management server 10 with the location where the selected service is provided, more specifically, map information that indicates the station where the ticket vending device 100 is installed and accommodation facilities, entertainment facilities, mountain climbing tours, etc. that are located near the line that includes the station. Note that the information stored as map information is not limited to this, but also includes information on the station where the ticket vending device 100 is installed, the line, entertainment facilities, hotels, etc. located near these, and the means of transportation used to travel to these entertainment facilities, hotels, etc.

[0022] Next, the purchase information stored in the system management server 10 will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the purchase information storage unit 10a that stores purchase information. In this embodiment, the purchase information is stored in the purchase information storage unit 10a as purchase information. The user purchases a desired service by hierarchically entering predetermined input items from among multiple input items displayed on an input screen on the touch panel 104 of the ticket vending machine 100. Once the purchase procedure is complete, the purchase information is registered in the purchase information storage unit 10a. As shown in FIG. 4, the purchase information is configured by associating a purchase number with purchase content information. The purchase number is a number that identifies the purchased service. The purchase content information includes the content of the purchased service, specifically, the departure point, arrival point, transportation means from the departure point to the arrival point, whether or not optional services are added, the content of the service if any, and the payment method. In this embodiment, a two-dimensional code or an IC card can be used as the payment method. When payment is made using a two-dimensional code, a passcode is also included in the purchase content information.

[0023] Next, a description will be given of the processing performed when a user purchases a service provided by the system management server 10 using the ticket vending device 100. Figures 5 to 22 are diagrams showing examples of input screens displayed hierarchically on the display unit 105.

[0024] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the display unit 105 that is first displayed when the user purchases a seamless service. In other words, it is an example of an input screen that is positioned at the highest level among input screens that are displayed hierarchically. This input screen may be displayed constantly on the touch panel 104, or may be displayed when the user performs a predetermined operation.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 5, the display unit 105 displays three input items for package selection. These three input items are "Select from Destination" 200, "Select Transportation" 300, and "Select Plan" 400. Near "Select from Destination" 200, a message is displayed indicating that a destination can be selected and purchased. Near "Select Transportation" 300, a message is displayed indicating that a transportation method to be used can be selected and purchased. Near "Select Plan" 400, a message is displayed indicating that a plan (such as an amusement park or sightseeing tour) can be selected and purchased. In this way, the input screen displays input items for purchasing a seamless service in which services provided by multiple management servers (the station management server 20 and management servers 30, 40, and 50) are linked by the system management server 10. These multiple input items 200, 300, and 400 represent different types of packages of services provided by the system management server 10. In this embodiment, the case where three input items 200, 300, and 400 are displayed on the input screen at the highest level will be described, but the number of input items may be two, four, or more.

[0026] (Select from destinations) First, a case where the user selects "Select from destination" 200 from the package selection screen displayed on the display unit 105 as shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 14. FIG.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen 200a that is displayed when a user inputs the input item "Select from Destination" 200 in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 6, "Select from Destination" 210 is displayed in the upper left corner. A navigation N is displayed near the display of "Select from Destination" 210. The navigation N displays hierarchically configured input screens from the top to the bottom, indicating which hierarchical level of the hierarchically displayed input screen the currently displayed input screen is. More specifically, the navigation N displays navigation indicating the order in which the user should input information, and indicates by a "◯" that the user is currently selecting a destination. An input field 211 is also provided as an input field for inputting a destination station. In addition to station names "◯△□" and "△□◯," facilities such as amusement parks and parks can be selected as input candidates 212 for this input field. As described above, the input candidates 212 are displayed as input candidates for purchasing a service selected from the seamless services selected by the station management server 20 based on the line of the station where the ticket vending device 100 is installed. When the user touches one of the input candidates 212, the destination corresponding to the input is entered into the input item 211. If the desired destination is not displayed in the input candidates 212, the user can input the desired destination by touching the input item 211. In addition, an input item "Back" 213 for returning to package selection is displayed in the lower left of the input screen 200a, and an input item "OK" 214 for selecting an option is displayed in the lower right. Note that, since the departure point is the station where the ticket vending device 100 is installed, in this embodiment, no display for inputting the departure point is displayed on the input screen 200a. This saves the user the trouble of having to enter information when purchasing a service.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen displayed when the user inputs "OK" 214 after inputting a destination in FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, "Select an option" 220 is displayed in the upper left. Similar to FIG. 6, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user will input information is displayed near the display of "Select an option" 220. A circle (circle) indicates that the user is currently selecting an option. An input field 221 for inputting an "option" is also displayed. In this embodiment, for inputting this "option," multiple input candidates 222 are displayed. More specifically, four options are displayed: "None" (no options, only travel to the destination), "Amusement park admission ticket (1 day)," "Amusement park admission ticket (1 day) + accommodation (1 night)," and "Amusement park admission ticket (2 days) + accommodation (1 night)." The user can input an option by touching one of the multiple input candidates 222. By inputting a question mark, the user can visually view the details of the option. In this way, the user can easily select from multiple different options without detailed configuration. When selecting this option, the station management server 20 selects and displays an option selected from among the seamless services. For example, the most frequently selected option based on past performance is displayed. The number of options displayed may be set arbitrarily. Also, an input item "Back" 223 for returning to destination selection is displayed at the bottom left, and an input item "OK" 224 for selecting the means of transportation, facilities to be used, and number of people is displayed at the bottom right.

[0029] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 200c that shows details of the options, which is displayed when the user enters a question mark in Fig. 7. In this embodiment, the input is "Amusement park admission ticket (1 day) + accommodation (1 night)," and details 231 of the options selected are displayed. Entering "Close" 232 returns to the input screen 200b of Fig. 7.

[0030] 9 and 10 are diagrams showing an example of an input screen 200d that is displayed when the user enters "OK" 224 after entering an option in FIG. 7. When the user touches and slides the input screen 200d in FIG. 9, the input screen 200e in FIG. 10 is displayed on the display unit 105. As shown in FIG. 9, "Select transportation, facility to be used, and number of people" 240 is displayed in the upper left. As in FIG. 6, a navigation N that indicates the order in which the user should enter information is displayed near this "Select transportation, facility to be used, and number of people" 240, and the illustrated "◯" indicates that the user is currently in the situation of selecting transportation, facility to be used, and number of people. In addition to input fields 241 for entering the number of adults and children, the screen also displays the route from Station XX (the station where the ticket vending device 100 is installed) to Amusement Park Station (R1 in the figure), the route from Amusement Park Station to the Amusement Park (R2 in the figure), and accommodation details (R3 in the figure) 242 corresponding to the option "Amusement Park Admission Ticket (1 Day) + Accommodation (1 Night)" selected as the option. Input candidates 243 corresponding to these details are also displayed (the correspondence is indicated by R1, R2, and R3 in the figure). The user can input their desired transportation and hotel by selecting from the input candidates 243. Furthermore, input screen 200e shown in FIG. 10, which is displayed when the user operates input screen 200d of FIG. 9, displays the input candidate "Admission Ticket (1 Day)" 253 for option "Amusement Park Ticket" 252, and the user can change the input candidate 253 by touching it. In this way, the user simply selects from several options, making input easy. Only means of transportation with fixed fares, such as trains and buses, are eligible for payment at the time of purchase, and if a taxi is selected, the fare will be settled when the taxi is actually used, as it varies depending on the distance traveled, etc. Also, an input item "Back" 244 for returning to option selection is displayed at the bottom left of input screens 200d and 200e, and an input item "OK" 245 for entering payment information is displayed at the bottom right.

[0031] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 200f that is displayed when the user enters "OK" 245 after entering the transportation mode, facility, and number of passengers in FIG. 9 or 10. As shown in FIG. 11, "Payment Information" 260 is displayed in the upper left. As in FIG. 6, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should enter information is displayed near this "Payment Information" 260, and a circle indicates that the user is currently entering payment information. In FIG. 11, purchase details 261, specifically, the destination, options, number of passengers, and fare based on the input so far, are displayed, and a message 262 saying "Please insert your credit card" is also displayed. This allows the user to visually recognize that payment must be made by credit card. The user inserts their credit card into the slot (not shown) of the ticket vending machine 100. Additionally, an input item "Back" 263 for returning to the selection of transportation mode, facility, and number of passengers, and an "OK" 264 for proceeding to selection of a medium are displayed in the lower left of the input screen 200f.

[0032] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 200g displayed when a credit card is inserted in FIG. 11. As shown in FIG. 12, "Select Medium" 270 is displayed in the upper left. Similar to FIG. 6, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should input information is displayed near this "Select Medium" 270, and a circle indicates that the user is currently selecting a medium. In FIG. 12, purchase details 271, such as the destination, options, number of passengers, and usage fee, are displayed based on the inputs made up to that point. Also displayed are an input field 272 for inputting the medium to be used for payment, and an input field 273 for inputting a passcode. The input medium options are "IC card" 274 and "QR code" 275, and the user can enter the information into the input field 272 by touching either one. In the following description, the two-dimensional code will be described as a QR code (registered trademark). If this QR code is selected, the passcode is also entered. The passcode is entered by the user inputting a predetermined number of digits using the numeric buttons 276. After inserting the credit card in this way, the IC card or QR code and passcode are entered, thereby linking the credit card to the selected medium. The selected medium serves as a ticket when receiving services such as trains, taxis, and other means of transportation, or hotel accommodations. Because the credit card and the medium are linked in this way, the user does not need to present a credit card when receiving services such as trains, taxis, and other means of transportation, or hotel accommodations. Therefore, when actually receiving the service, the user can receive the service as long as they have only the medium, even if they do not have a credit card. This is particularly useful when the payer and the user are different. In addition, the input screen 200g displays an input field "Back" 277 at the bottom left to return to inputting payment information, and an input field "OK" 278 at the bottom right to confirm the contents.

[0033] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a bathing screen 200h that is displayed when the user selects "OK" 278 in FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 13, "Confirm Contents" 280 is displayed in the upper left. Similar to FIG. 6, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should input information is displayed near this "Confirm Contents" 280, and a circle indicates that the user is currently confirming the content. In FIG. 13, purchase details 281, such as the destination, options, number of users, and usage fee, are displayed based on the input so far. In addition, a display 282 indicating that a QR code has been selected as the medium and a passcode has been set is displayed in the center. Messages such as "Please confirm the contents" and "Click OK to issue" 283 are displayed in the lower part. From the screen in FIG. 13, the user can visually confirm that the QR code and passcode have been set. If the user selects an IC card as the medium, the IC card is displayed. Furthermore, a "Back" input item 284 for returning to medium input is displayed in the lower left of the input screen 200h, and an "OK" input item 285 for issuing the passcode is displayed in the lower right.

[0034] FIG. 14 shows an example of the input screen 200i displayed when the user confirms the input contents and then selects “OK” 285 in FIG. 13 . As shown in FIG. 14 , “Issue” 290 is displayed in the upper left corner. Similar to FIG. 6 , a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should input information is displayed near the “Issue” 290 display. A circle indicates that the user is currently issuing a confirmation of the purchase of the service. Based on the inputs made up to that point, purchase details 291, such as the destination, options, number of users, and usage fee, are displayed. A central display 292 indicates that a QR code has been selected as the medium and a passcode has been set. Messages such as “Issue Completed” and “Thank You” 293 are displayed at the bottom. This allows the user to visually confirm that the service purchase has been completed. Therefore, purchase information for the service is transmitted to the system management server 10 via the station management server 20 and stored in the purchase information storage unit 10a of the system management server 10.

[0035] (Select your mode of transportation) Next, a case where the user selects "Select transportation" 300 from the package selection screen shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 20. FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 300a that is displayed when the user enters information into the input item "Select Transportation" 200 in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 15, "Select Transportation" 310 is displayed in the upper left. A navigation N indicating the order in which the user should enter information is displayed near the display of "Select Transportation" 310, and a circle indicates that the user is currently selecting a transportation method. Transportation methods 1 to 3 are provided as input items 311, and input is performed for these transportation methods 1 to 3 using tabs 313 displayed at the bottom of FIG. 15. Tabs 313 to 315 are provided for transportation methods 1 to 3, and in FIG. 15, tab 313 for transportation method 1 is selected. The available transportation method input candidates 316 are train, bus, taxi, shared bicycle, and rental car. FIG. 15 shows a state in which the user has not yet selected a transportation method. If the user selects train as their transportation method and then selects tab 314 to select transportation method 2, the input screen 300b shown in FIG. 16 appears. On input screen 300b, railroad is selected as transportation mode 1, and input candidate 326 to be selected as transportation mode 2 is displayed. In this way, the user selects a transportation mode. Also, at the bottom left of input screens 300a and 300b, an input item "Back" 317 for returning to package selection is displayed, and at the bottom right, an input item "OK" 318 for selecting an option is displayed.

[0036] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 300c that is displayed when the user inputs the aforementioned "OK" 318. As shown in FIG. 17, "Options" 330 is displayed in the upper left. As in FIG. 16, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should input is displayed near the display of "Options" 330, and a "circle" indicates that an option is currently being input. Options 1 to 3 are provided as input items 331, and input is performed for these options 1 to 3 using tabs 332 displayed at the bottom of FIG. 17. Tabs 333 to 335 are provided in tab 332 corresponding to options 1 to 3, and in FIG. 17, tab 333 for option 1 is open. "None," "XX Experience," and "XX Hotel" are selectable as input candidates 332. Note that by entering a question mark, the details of the options can be visually confirmed. Also, at the bottom left of the input screen 300c, an input item "Back" 336 for returning to the selection of a means of transportation is displayed, and at the bottom right, an input item "OK" 337 for selecting a place of use is displayed.

[0037] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 300d that is displayed when the user enters "OK" 337 after entering options in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 18, "Select a Place of Use" 340 is displayed in the upper left. As in FIG. 16, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should enter information is displayed near this "Select a Place of Use" 340, and a "circle" indicates that the user is currently entering a place of use. As input items 341, places of use 1 to 3 are provided corresponding to transportation means 1 to 3. In FIG. 18, transportation means 1 is entered as train, transportation means 2 is entered as bus, and transportation means 3 is entered as rental car. Places of use 1 to 3 are entered using tabs 342 displayed at the bottom of FIG. 18. Tabs 342 include a train tab 343, a bus tab 344, and a rental car tab 345, and in FIG. 18, the train tab 343 is open. As input candidates 343, Xyama Station, △△ Station, and X□kawa Station are selectable. As described above, the input candidates 343 display the location of use selected by the station management server 20 from the line of the station where the ticket vending device 100 is installed. In this manner, in this embodiment, the location from which each means of transportation is to be used is set, and the arrival station is not specified. Then, based on the set means of transportation and the location of use, the control unit 101 searches for a route using map information. Also, at the bottom left of the input screen 300d, an input item "Back" 347 for returning to option selection is displayed, and at the bottom right, an input item "OK" 348 for confirming the route is displayed.

[0038] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 300e that is displayed when the user selects a use location in FIG. 18 and then selects "OK" 348. As shown in FIG. 19, "Confirm Route" 350 is displayed in the upper left corner. A navigation N indicating the order in which the user should input information is displayed near "Confirm Route" 350, and a circle indicates that the user is currently checking the route. FIG. 19 also displays a route that the control unit 101 obtains based on map information using the transportation mode and use location selected by the user. In FIG. 19, a message saying "Please confirm the route" is displayed along with a route 351 including △△ Station (use location 1), 〇□ Station, 〇□ Station Front Stop (use location 2), and □△ River Stop (use location 3), as well as transportation modes associated with this route 351, such as "Railway" 352, "Bus" 353, "Rental Car" 354, and "〇△ Experience" (option) 355. The display allows the user to visually confirm their input information and route. Note that when using a rental car or the like, the start time of use is not specified. This simplifies user input. The system management server 10 arranges the start time of use based on the actual time of use by the user. Also, below the tab in Fig. 19, an input item "Back" 356 for returning to input of the means of transportation is displayed, and at the bottom right, an input item "OK" 357 for inputting the number of people is displayed.

[0039] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 300f that is displayed when the user inputs "OK" 357 after confirming the route in FIG. 19. As shown in FIG. 20, "Confirm Number of People" 360 is displayed in the upper left. As in FIG. 16, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should input information is displayed near this "Confirm Number of People" 360, and a "circle" indicates that the user is currently entering the number of people. In FIG. 20, an input field 361 for inputting the number of adults and children is displayed together with a message saying "Please select the number of people." In addition, the fares 362 for the transportation modes 1 to 3 entered by the user are also displayed according to the number of people. In addition, in the lower left of the tab in FIG. 20, an input field "Back" 363 for returning to route confirmation and an "OK" 364 for inputting payment information are displayed.

[0040] When the user inputs "OK" 364, the input screens for payment information, medium selection, content confirmation, and issuance are displayed hierarchically on the display unit 105. However, since these are similar to the input screens 200f to 200i described in Figures 11 to 14, illustrations and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0041] (Choose a plan) Next, a case where the user selects "Plan Selection" 400 from the package selection screen shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen 400a that is displayed when a user inputs information into the input field "Plan Selection" 400 in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 21, "Plan Selection" 410 is displayed in the upper left. A navigation N indicating the order in which the user should input information is displayed near "Plan Selection" 410, and a circle (◯) indicates that the user is currently selecting a plan. An input field 411 for inputting a plan is displayed, and below the input field 411, input candidates 412 are displayed, including □□ Amusement Park, XX Sightseeing (Day Trip), XX Sightseeing (One Night), and Mt. △△ Mountain Climbing. The user touches a desired input field to input the plan into the input field 411. Note that by entering a question mark, the user can view details of the options. Also displayed at the bottom of FIG. 21 are an input field "Back" 413 for returning to package selection and an input field "OK" 414 for selecting the transportation method, facility to be used, and number of people.

[0042] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 400b that is displayed when the user selects a plan in FIG. 21 and then enters "OK" 414. As shown in FIG. 22, "Select transportation, facilities, and number of people" 420 is displayed in the upper left. As in FIG. 21, a navigation N indicating the order in which the user should enter information is displayed near this "Select transportation, facilities, and number of people" 410, and a "circle" indicates that the user is currently entering transportation, facilities, and number of people. In addition to input fields 421 for entering the number of adults and children, input fields 422 for the distance from XX Station to XX Station (R1 in the figure), the distance from XX Station to XX Temple (R2 in the figure), and accommodation details (R3 in the figure) are displayed, and input candidates 423 corresponding to these details are displayed (the correspondence is indicated by R1, R2, and R3 in the figure). By entering these, the user can select a transportation method and a hotel. Also, at the bottom of Fig. 22, an input item "Back" 424 for returning to plan selection and an input item "OK" 425 for entering payment information are displayed. In this way, the user only needs to select from several options, making input easy. Only means of transportation with fixed fares, such as trains and buses, are eligible for payment at the time of purchase. If a taxi is selected, the fare varies depending on factors such as the distance traveled, and so payment is made when the taxi is actually used, just as in the case described above.

[0043] When the user inputs "OK" 425, the input screens for payment information, medium selection, content confirmation, and issuance are displayed hierarchically on the display unit 105. However, since these are similar to the input screens 200f to 200i described in Figures 11 to 14, illustrations and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0044] By inputting information as described above, the user can use the ticket vending device 100 to easily purchase seamless services provided by the system management server 10. The services purchased in this manner are stored as purchase information in the purchase information storage unit 10a of the system management server 10. The system management server 10 also registers the services provided by the station management server 20 and the management servers 30, 40, and 50 based on the purchase information stored in the purchase information storage unit 10a.

[0045] Here, a description will be given of the process of linking a credit card with an IC card when a user purchases a seamless service provided by the system management server 10. Fig. 23 is a timing chart showing the timing of the process of linking a credit card with an IC card.

[0046] First, in response to the message "Please insert your credit card" shown in FIG. 11, the user inserts their credit card into the ticket vending device 100 (ST101), and then inserts their IC card into the ticket vending device 100 (ST102). Next, the ticket vending device 100 acquires the credit card number and IC card identification information (ID) from the inserted credit card and IC card, and transmits the acquired credit card number and IC card identification information to the station management server 20 (ST103). Furthermore, the station management server 20 transmits purchase information to the system management server 10 (ST104). The purchase information includes information related to the reservation of the purchased service, such as the credit card number, IC card identification information, ticket information, hotel reservation information, and taxi dispatch information. As a result, the purchase information is stored in the purchase information storage unit 10a. Next, based on the purchase information, the system management server 10 registers the ticket information in the station management server 20 (ST105), registers the hotel reservation information in the management server (hotel) 40 (ST106), and registers the taxi dispatch information in the management server (taxi company) 30 (ST107). As a result, the service purchased by the user is linked to the credit card and the IC card, and is registered in the station management server 20 and the management servers 30 and 40, respectively.

[0047] Next, a description will be given of the process of linking a credit card with a QR code when a user purchases a seamless service provided by the system management server 10. Fig. 24 is a timing chart showing the timing of the process of linking a credit card with a QR code.

[0048] First, in response to the message "Please insert your credit card" shown in FIG. 11, the user inserts their credit card into the ticket vending device 100 (ST201), and then a QR code is displayed on the ticket vending device 100 (ST202). At this time, the ticket vending device 100 also accepts input of a passcode. Next, the ticket vending device 100 acquires the credit card number from the inserted credit card, and also acquires QR code identification information (including the passcode), and transmits the acquired credit card number and QR code identification information to the station management server 20 (ST203). Furthermore, the station management server 20 transmits purchase information to the system management server 10 (ST204). The purchase information includes the credit card number, QR code identification information (including the passcode), and reservation-related information such as ticket information, hotel reservation information, and taxi dispatch information. Next, based on the purchase information, the system management server 10 registers the ticket information in the station management server 20 (ST205), registers the hotel reservation information in the management server (hotel) 40 (ST206), and registers the taxi dispatch information in the management server (taxi company) 30 (ST207). As a result, the service purchased by the user is registered in the station management server 20 and the management servers 30 and 40, linked with the credit card and the QR code.

[0049] As described with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24, the system management server 10 can store purchase information including information linked to a credit card, an IC card, or a QR code in the purchase information storage unit 10a.

[0050] Below, first, a case where a user travels by train when a credit card and an IC card are linked and purchase information is stored in purchase information storage unit 10a will be described with reference to Fig. 25. Next, a case where a user travels by taxi or rental car when a credit card and a QR code are linked and purchase information is stored in purchase information storage unit 10a will be described with reference to Figs. 26 and 27.

[0051] Fig. 25 is a timing chart showing an example of the processing when a user travels by train using an IC card. As shown in Fig. 25, the user holds the IC card over a predetermined position in the automatic ticket gate 21 (ST301). The automatic ticket gate 21 reads information from the IC card using the IC card communication unit 21b and transmits the read IC card information to the station management server 20 (ST302). The station management server 20 transmits the user information to the system management server 10 (ST303). The user information includes the station name, the time of passage, etc. in addition to the IC card identification information.

[0052] The system management server 10 refers to the purchase information storage unit 10a, identifies IC card identification information that matches the IC card identification information included in the user information, and refers to the purchase information managed in association with the identified IC card identification information. In this embodiment, the case of a user who gets off a train and then takes a taxi will be described. Therefore, the system management server 10 transmits taxi reservation information to the management server (taxi company) 30 to reserve a taxi because the IC card has passed through the automatic ticket gate 21 at the departure station (ST304). Here, the taxi reservation information includes information on the IC card identification information, departure station, passing time, and arrival station.

[0053] When the management server 30 receives the taxi reservation information, it confirms that the service is registered based on the IC card identification information. Then, it predicts the arrival time using a train timetable based on the departure station, passing time, and arrival station included in the taxi reservation information, and predicts the dispatch time for dispatching a taxi to the arrival station based on the arrival time (ST305). The management server 30 then transmits the reservation information to the taxi 31 so that the taxi will be dispatched to the arrival station at the predicted dispatch time (ST306). The reservation information is information registered in the management server 30 by the system management server 10 at the time of the reservation, as described above. This reservation information includes the arrival station, arrival time, IC card identification information, and destination. Thus, the taxi 31 that receives the reservation information can head to the arrival station at the predicted dispatch time. The user can use the taxi 31 simply by holding their IC card over the IC card communication unit 31b of the taxi 31. The driver of the taxi 31 can transport the user to their destination based on the reservation information.

[0054] FIG. 26 is a timing chart showing an example of processing when a user uses a taxi using a QR code. As shown in FIG. 26, the system management server 10 transmits taxi reservation information to the management server (taxi company) 30 (ST401). After predicting the dispatch time (omitted in FIG. 26), the management server 30 distributes the taxi reservation information received from the system management server 10 to the taxi 31 (ST402). The reservation information is information registered by the system management server 10 at the time of reservation as described above. The reservation information includes the arrival station, arrival time, passcode, and destination. The driver of the taxi 31 moves the taxi 31 based on the reservation information so that the taxi can pick up the user at the arrival station at the arrival time.

[0055] When the user gets into the taxi 31, the user holds the QR code over the two-dimensional code reader 31a of the taxi 31 (ST403). The user also inputs a passcode into an input device attached to the two-dimensional code reader 31a (ST404). The QR reader 31a checks whether the input QR code and passcode match the reservation user information (ST405). If they match, that is, if the user is the one who made the reservation, the user begins using the taxi 31 (ST406), and the taxi 31 moves to take the user to the reserved destination.

[0056] When the taxi 31 arrives at the destination, the fare is settled. The taxi 31 calculates the fare based on the travel distance, the fare per unit distance, and the time period (ST407). The calculation result is displayed on a predetermined display unit. The user then holds the QR code over the taxi's two-dimensional code reader 31a (ST408). The user also enters a passcode into the input device described above (ST409). The two-dimensional code reader 31a checks whether the entered QR code and passcode match the reservation information (ST410). If they match, termination processing including payment processing is executed. When this processing is completed, the taxi 31 transmits usage status information to the management server 30 (ST411). The management server 30 also transmits the received usage status information to the system management server 10 (ST412). The usage status information includes the QR code, passcode, and information indicating that the taxi usage has ended. In this way, the system management server 10 can manage the fact that the use of the taxi 31 has ended among the services included in the purchase information purchased by the user.

[0057] Fig. 27 is a timing chart showing an example of the processing when a user rents a car using a QR code. As shown in Fig. 27, the system management server 10 transmits the rental car reservation information to the management server (rental car company) 50 (ST501). The management server 50 transmits the rental car reservation information received from the system management server 10 to the rental car company's terminal device 51 (ST502). The reservation information is information registered by the system management server at the time of reservation as described above. The reservation information includes the arrival station, arrival time, passcode, usage time, and destination.

[0058] When the user arrives at the rental car company, the user holds the QR code over the terminal device 51 of the rental car company (ST503). The user also inputs a passcode into the terminal device 51 (ST504). The terminal device 51 checks whether the input QR code and passcode match the reservation user information (ST505). If they match, that is, if the user is the one who made the reservation, the user begins using the rental service (ST506), and the user can freely use the rental car for a predetermined time.

[0059] The user returns the rental car to the rental car company before the specified usage time has elapsed. At this time, the rental car company's terminal device 51 presents the usage fee to the user based on the operation of a rental car company employee (ST507). The user then holds the QR code over the rental car company's terminal device 51 (ST508). The user also enters a passcode into the terminal device 51 (ST509). The terminal device 51 checks whether the entered QR code and passcode match the reservation information (ST510). If they match, termination processing including payment processing is executed. After this processing, the terminal device 51 transmits usage status information to the management server 50 (ST511). The management server 50 also transmits the received usage status information to the system management server 10 (ST512). The usage status information includes the QR code, passcode, and information indicating that rental car usage has ended. In this way, the system management server 10 can manage the completion of rental car usage, which is one of the services included in the purchase information purchased by the user.

[0060] With the ticket vending device 100 configured as described above, even if a user does not have an information processing terminal device such as a smartphone, has an information processing terminal device but does not carry it with them, or has an information processing terminal device but the battery is dead, seamless services can be easily purchased via the network.

[0061] Furthermore, the ticket vending device 100 can display on the display unit 105 an input screen for purchasing a seamless service in which services provided by the multiple management servers 10, 20, 30, and 40 are linked by the system management server 10. In this way, the input screen displayed on the display unit 105 has multiple input items, and these multiple input items represent different types of packages of services provided by the system management server 10. Furthermore, because an input screen configured hierarchically for the selected input item is displayed on the display unit 105, the user can use the ticket vending device 100 to easily purchase the seamless service provided by the system management server 10.

[0062] Furthermore, the ticket vending device 100 can set the input candidates that can be entered as input items to services provided near the station where the ticket vending device 100 is installed and the line that includes that station. This makes it possible for the ticket vending device 100 to purchase services that are specific to the installation location from all services provided by the system management server 10. In this case, the ticket vending device 100 can omit input of the departure station, allowing the user to input even less.

[0063] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 10...system management server, 10a...purchase information storage unit, 20...station management server 20, 30...management server (taxi company), 31a, 41a, 51a...two-dimensional code reader, 31b, 41b, 51b...IC card communication unit, 40...management server (hotel), 50...management server (rental car company), 100...ticket vending machine, 101...control unit, 101a...two-dimensional code reader, 101b...IC card communication unit, 105...display unit, 200a to 200i, 300a to 300f, 400a, 400b...input screen, 211, 222, 243, 253, 316, 332, 343, 412...input candidates

Claims

1. Touch panel and a storage unit that stores input screen information in which an input screen for purchasing a service that links a plurality of services provided by an information processing device that can communicate with the touch panel is hierarchically configured for each input item; a control unit that, when an input item displayed on the touch panel is selected, displays an input screen hierarchically configured for the selected input item on the touch panel based on the input screen information; a reading unit that reads the two-dimensional code; a credit card reader that reads information from a credit card; A ticket vending machine comprising: A system management server that provides the service and a station management server that manages the ticket vending device are communicably connected to each other, When the input for purchasing the service is completed, the control unit transmits purchase information including the two-dimensional code read by the reading unit, the passcode input by the user, and the credit card information read by the credit card reading unit to the system management server via the station management server, and links the service to the purchase information and registers it in the station management server from the system management server. Ticket vending machine.

2. There are a plurality of input items displayed in the highest hierarchical level of the hierarchically configured input screen, and the plurality of input items are input items that package the service in different types. The ticket vending machine according to claim 1.

3. The input items packaged in different types include an input item for selecting from a destination that is a destination of the service, an input item for selecting from a means of transportation to be used for traveling to receive the service, or an input item for selecting from a plan indicating the content of the service. The ticket vending machine according to claim 2.

4. The input items displayed on the input screen do not include an input item for inputting a departure point. The ticket vending machine according to claim 2.

5. the storage unit stores a service selected from the services provided by the system management server as an input candidate for the input item on the input screen; The ticket vending machine according to claim 2.

6. The input candidates displayed on the input screen are services provided in the vicinity of the station where the ticket vending device is installed and the line including the station. The ticket vending machine according to claim 5.

7. a map information storage unit that stores map information that associates a service selected by the station management server from the services provided by the system management server with a location where the selected service is provided; The control unit selects the input candidate based on the map information. The ticket vending machine according to claim 6.

8. the input screen includes a navigation system for displaying the hierarchically configured input screen from the top layer to the bottom layer, the navigation displays which of all the hierarchical levels of the input screens currently displayed is an input screen of, among the hierarchically displayed input screens; The ticket vending machine according to claim 1.

9. The ticket vending device a communication unit that communicates with the IC card; Equipped with When the input for purchasing the service is completed, the control unit transmits purchase information, which includes identification information for identifying the IC card read by the communication unit and credit card information read by the credit card reading unit, to the system management server via the station management server, and causes the system management server to register the service in the station management server by linking it to the purchase information. The ticket vending machine according to claim 1.

Images