Information processing device and information processing program

Abstract

To provide a technique for improving the convenience of shopping by a plurality of people.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes a grouping processing unit, a communication unit, and a setting unit. The grouping processing unit groups a plurality of terminals including a first terminal and a second terminal capable of registering products into one group on the basis of user settings. The communication unit acquires a point based on a user operation on the second terminal from the second terminal. The setting unit sets discount information for a user of the first terminal on the basis of the point.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing device and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] POS (Point of Sales) systems are known in stores such as commercial facilities, where customers register products using terminals and then pay for them themselves at cash registers. Such POS systems are expected to improve the convenience of shopping for customers.

[0003] POS systems are also used when shopping with multiple people, such as children, but when shopping with children, if the children get bored, the parents have to look after them while shopping, which still poses the problem of inefficient shopping. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-153088 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that improves the convenience of shopping for multiple people. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the information processing device includes a grouping processing unit, a communication unit, and a setting unit. The grouping processing unit groups a plurality of terminals, including a first terminal and a second terminal, into one group based on user settings. The communication unit acquires points from the second terminal based on user operations on the second terminal. The setting unit sets discount information for the user of the first terminal based on the points. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a product sales system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of product management data according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of terminal management data according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of a registration list according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of grouping processing by the server according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a display process of registered products on a user terminal by the server according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a display process of a product list on a user terminal by a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a transaction-related display process on a user terminal by a server according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing another example of the transaction-related display process performed by the server according to the embodiment on the user terminal. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a point conversion process by the server according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a shopping start setting image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first grouping setting image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a second grouping setting image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a grouping completion image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a pairing in progress image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a pairing completion image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a registered product image displayed on a user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transaction image displayed on a user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of an end image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of an accounting object setting image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of an event image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals whenever possible, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0009] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a product sales system S. The product sales system S is a system related to the sale of products in a store. The product sales system S is a system that enables a user to register a product using a user terminal 5 and to make a payment using a payment machine 2.

[0010] The product sales system S includes a server 1, multiple payment machines 2, an access point 3, an attendant terminal 4, and multiple user terminals 5. The server 1, the multiple payment machines 2, and the access point 3 are communicatively connected to one another via a network 6. For example, the network 6 is a local area network (LAN). Although FIG. 1 illustrates multiple payment machines 2, the product sales system S may include only one payment machine 2. Although FIG. 1 illustrates only one access point 3, the product sales system S may include multiple access points 3. Although FIG. 1 illustrates only one attendant terminal 4, the product sales system S may include multiple attendant terminals 4. The product sales system S may also refer to a system including at least two electronic devices. The product sales system S is an example of an information processing system.

[0011] The server 1 is an electronic device capable of processing information that manages the product sales system S. An example of the configuration of the server 1 will be described later. The server 1 is an example of an information processing device.

[0012] The payment machine 2 is an electronic device that can process payments for registered products using a user terminal 5.

[0013] The access point 3 is an electronic device that can communicate with the attendant terminal 4 or the user terminal 5.

[0014] The attendant terminal 4 is a terminal capable of processing information used by an attendant. The attendant terminal 4 may be, but is not limited to, a personal computer (PC), a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like. The attendant may be a store staff member such as a sales clerk.

[0015] The user terminal 5 is an electronic device capable of processing information that is used by a user in a store. The user terminal 5 may be a terminal capable of registering products. The user terminal 5 is a terminal that can be moved as the user moves. The user terminal 5 may be a terminal that is mounted on a shopping cart C and used, or may be a terminal that is not mounted on a shopping cart C and used. The user terminal 5 may be a terminal rented out by the store, or may be a terminal owned by the user. The user terminal 5 may be a tablet terminal or a smartphone, or may be a combination of a tablet terminal or a smartphone and an external device. The user includes a customer. The user terminal 5 is an example of a terminal. The user terminal 5 is an example of an information processing terminal.

[0016] The multiple user terminals 5-1 are some of the multiple user terminals 5 used in the store. The multiple user terminals 5-1 are multiple user terminals selected to form one group from the multiple user terminals 5 based on user settings through a grouping process described below. All of the multiple user terminals 5-1 may be user terminals capable of product registration, or some of the user terminals 5-1 may be user terminals capable of product registration. Hereinafter, a group consisting of multiple user terminals 5-1 will also be referred to as a first group. The multiple user terminals 5-1 include a first user terminal 5-1-1. Hereinafter, the user of the first user terminal 5-1-1 will also be referred to as a first user. The multiple user terminals 5-1 include a second user terminal 5-1-2 as another user terminal different from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The second user terminal 5-1-2 is an example of another user terminal from the perspective of the first user terminal 5-1-1. In the following, the user of the second user terminal 5-1-2 will also be referred to as the “second user.” Unless otherwise specified, the following description will be given assuming that the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2 are user terminals belonging to one group.

[0017] An example of the configuration of the server 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the server 1. As shown in FIG.

[0018] The server 1 includes a processor 10, a main memory 11, an auxiliary storage device 12, and a communication interface 13. In Fig. 2, the interface is indicated as "I / F".

[0019] The processor 10 corresponds to the central part of the server 1. The processor 10 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. For example, the processor 10 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but is not limited to this. The processor 10 may be composed of various circuits. The processor 10 loads a program stored in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program is a program that causes the processor 10 of the server 1 to realize each unit described below and to execute the processing of each unit. The processor 10 executes various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 11.

[0020] The main memory 11 corresponds to the main storage portion of the server 1. The main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 11 stores an operating system or a program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 10 as appropriate. For example, the main memory 11 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 11 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0021] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the server 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processor 10 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processor 10. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an example of a storage unit.

[0022] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a product management data storage area 121. The product management data storage area 121 stores product management data. The product management data includes product data related to each product sold in the store. For example, the product data includes data such as a product ID, product name, and price. The product ID is a unique code assigned to each product to individually identify each product. The product ID is an example of product identification information. The product name is the name of the product associated with the product ID. The price is the selling price per unit of the product associated with the product ID. The product data is an example of product information. An example of the configuration of product management data will be described later.

[0023] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a terminal management data storage area 122. The terminal management data storage area 122 stores terminal management data. The terminal management data includes user terminal data related to each user terminal used in the store. The user terminal data includes data such as a terminal ID, a member ID, a transaction ID, a registration list, and a terminal type. The user terminal data does not necessarily include a member ID. A terminal ID is a unique code assigned to each user terminal to individually identify each user terminal. A terminal ID is an example of terminal identification information. A member ID is a unique code assigned to each user to individually identify each user. A member ID is an example of member identification information. A member ID is the member ID of the logged-in user. A transaction ID is a unique code assigned to each transaction to identify the transaction. A transaction is a commercial transaction for completing the delivery of a product between a user and a store. A transaction includes product registration. Product registration includes obtaining a product ID of the product to be traded using the user terminal 5. A transaction includes checkout of the registered product using the user terminal 5. Hereinafter, products registered using a user terminal 5 are also referred to as registered products. The transaction ID is an example of transaction identification information. The registration list is data that lists registered product data for each registered product registered using a user terminal 5 identified by the terminal ID.

[0024] The terminal type is information for performing different controls depending on the terminal type. The terminal type includes a first type and a second type. For example, the first type is information indicating that the user terminal 5 is used by an adult, and the second type is information indicating that the user terminal 5 is used by a child. The first type and the second type are not limited to these. The terminal type may be set in advance. The terminal type may be set based on an input via a user terminal 5 identified by the terminal ID. The terminal type may be set based on an input via a user terminal 5 different from the user terminal 5 identified by the terminal ID. An example of the configuration of terminal management data will be described later.

[0025] For example, registered product data includes data such as registered product ID, registered product name, points, and price. The registered product ID is the above-mentioned product ID for the registered product. The registered product ID is an example of registered product identification information. The registered product name is the name of the registered product associated with the registered product ID. The points is the number of registered products identified by the same registered product ID. The price is the total price of the registered products identified by the same registered product ID. The price is a value calculated by multiplying the price of the registered product identified by the registered product ID by the points. The registered product data is an example of information about registered products. An example of the configuration of a registration list will be described later.

[0026] The communication interface 13 includes various interfaces that connect the server 1 to other electronic devices via the network 6 in a manner that allows communication therebetween in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0027] The hardware configuration of the server 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and the server 1 allows the omission or modification of the above components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0028] Each unit implemented in the above-mentioned processor 10 will now be described. The processor 10 implements a communication unit 101, a grouping processing unit 102, a storage control unit 103, a display control unit 104, a restriction processing unit 105, and a setting unit 106. Each unit implemented in the processor 10 can also be referred to as a function. Each unit implemented in the processor 10 can also be referred to as being implemented in a control unit including the processor 10 and the main memory 11.

[0029] The communication unit 101 acquires information from a plurality of user terminals 5 via the network 6 .

[0030] The grouping processing unit 102 groups multiple user terminals into one group based on user settings. A group is a collection of multiple user terminals for treating each product registered using each of the multiple user terminals as a single transaction. For example, a group may be formed for multiple family members who visit a store, or for multiple friends who visit a store. The expression "multiple user terminals" without a reference symbol refers to any multiple user terminals among the multiple user terminals 5. For example, the grouping processing unit 102 groups multiple user terminals 5-1 into one group based on user settings. The multiple user terminals 5-1 include a first user terminal 5-1-1 and a second user terminal 5-1-2 as described above. The first user terminal 5-1-1 is a user terminal capable of product registration. The terminal type of the first user terminal 5-1-1 is the first type. The second user terminal 5-1-2 may be a user terminal capable of product registration or a user terminal incapable of product registration. The terminal type of the second user terminal 5-1-2 is the second type.

[0031] The storage control unit 103 stores registered product data of products registered using the user terminal 5 in the auxiliary storage device 12. For example, the storage control unit 103 stores registered product data of products registered using any one of the multiple user terminals 5-1 in the auxiliary storage device 12 in association with transactions of a first group.

[0032] The display control unit 104 outputs data or information for display on the attendant terminal 4 or the user terminal 5 via the network 6.

[0033] The restriction processing unit 105 restricts product registration using the user terminal 5.

[0034] The setting unit 106 sets discount information for the user. The discount information is information about incentives related to the purchase of a product. For example, the discount information is discount points. The discount points indicate the amount discounted from the total price of the product. Here, discount points will be used as an example of discount information, but the discount information is not limited to discount points.

[0035] An example of the structure of the product management data stored in the product management data storage area 121 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the product management data. The product management data includes product data for each product, which associates a product ID, product name, price, and the like with each other.

[0036] An example of the configuration of the terminal management data stored in the terminal management data storage area 122 will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the terminal management data. The terminal management data includes user terminal data for each user terminal 5, which associates a terminal ID, a member ID, a transaction ID, a registration list, a terminal type, and the like with one another.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of a registration list included in the user terminal data. The registration list includes registered product data for each registered product, which associates the registered product ID, registered product name, number of items, price, etc. with each other.

[0038] An example of the configuration of the user terminal 5 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the user terminal 5. As shown in FIG.

[0039] The user terminal 5 includes a processor 50, a main memory 51, an auxiliary storage device 52, a communication interface 53, a display device 54, an input device 55, a speaker 56, a microphone 57, a camera 58, and a scanner 59. The components constituting the user terminal 5 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Fig. 6, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0040] The processor 50 corresponds to the central part of the user terminal 5. The processor 50 is an element that constitutes the computer of the user terminal 5. The processor 50 may have the same hardware configuration as the processor 10 described above. The processor 50 loads a program stored in the main memory 51 or the auxiliary storage device 52 into the main memory 51. The program is a program that causes the processor 50 of the user terminal 5 to realize each unit described below and to execute the processing of each unit. The processor 50 executes various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 51.

[0041] The main memory 51 corresponds to the main storage portion of the user terminal 5. The main memory 51 is an element that constitutes the computer of the user terminal 5. The main memory 51 may have the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned main memory 11. The main memory 51 stores the above-mentioned programs.

[0042] The auxiliary storage device 52 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the user terminal 5. The auxiliary storage device 52 is an element that constitutes the computer of the user terminal 5. The auxiliary storage device 52 may have the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned auxiliary storage device 12. The auxiliary storage device 52 stores the above-mentioned programs.

[0043] The communication interface 53 includes various interfaces that connect the user terminal 5 to other electronic devices so that they can communicate with each other in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0044] The display device 54 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processor 50. The display device 54 is a liquid crystal display, an EL (Electroluminescence) display, or the like. The display device 54 includes a touch panel. The display device 54 is an example of a display. The display device 54 is an example of a display unit.

[0045] The input device 55 is a device that can input instructions based on user operations. The input device 55 may include button-type input keys. The input device 55 may also include a touch panel that can implement input keys.

[0046] The speaker 56 is a device that can output sound under the control of the user terminal 5 .

[0047] The microphone 57 is a device that can input voice.

[0048] The camera 58 is an electronic device that has a photographing function and acquires photographed image data by photographing. For example, the camera 58 is a device that can acquire data from a photographed code symbol. The code symbol is a two-dimensional code symbol such as a barcode symbol or a QR code (registered trademark). The code symbol may be a code symbol of a product that stores a product ID. For example, the camera 58 reads a code symbol attached to a product and acquires the product ID from the code symbol. The code symbol may be a code symbol of a member that stores a member ID. For example, the camera 58 reads a code symbol attached to a membership card or a code symbol displayed on a terminal and acquires the member ID from the code symbol. The camera 58 is an example of a sensing device that acquires data.

[0049] The scanner 59 is a device that can optically read various code symbols and acquire data from the code symbols. For example, the scanner 59 reads a code symbol attached to a product and acquires a product ID from the code symbol. For example, the scanner 59 reads a code symbol attached to a membership card or a code symbol displayed on a terminal and acquires a membership ID from the code symbol. The scanner 59 is an example of a sensing device that acquires data.

[0050] The hardware configuration of the user terminal 5 is not limited to the above-described configuration. The user terminal 5 allows for the omission or modification of the above-described components and the addition of new components as appropriate. The user terminal 5 is not limited to being configured with a single electronic device. The user terminal 5 may be configured with multiple electronic devices. For example, at least one of the display device 54, input device 55, speaker 56, microphone 57, camera 58, and scanner 59 may be separate from the electronic device including the processor 50, etc.

[0051] (Example of operation) Next, an example of the operation of the product sales system S configured as above will be described. The processing procedures described below are merely examples, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, steps may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate depending on the embodiment.

[0052] The grouping process performed by the server 1 will now be described. Here, the user settings in the first user terminal 5-1-1 will be described as an example. Note that the user settings in any of the multiple user terminals 5-1 are the same as the user settings in the first user terminal 5-1-1.

[0053] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the grouping process by the server 1. Here, an example is shown in which the server 1 groups a plurality of user terminals 5-1 into a first group based on the user settings in the first user terminal 5-1-1.

[0054] The display control unit 104 outputs the shopping start setting image data to the first user terminal 5-1-1. (ACT1). The shopping start setting image is an image in which a shopping start instruction can be input. The shopping start instruction is an instruction to start shopping using the first user terminal 5-1-1. Examples of the shopping start setting image will be described later.

[0055] In ACT1, for example, the display control unit 104 generates data for a shopping start setting image. The display control unit 104 outputs the generated data for the shopping start setting image to the first user terminal 5-1-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires the data for the shopping start setting image from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the shopping start setting image on the display device 54 based on the data for the shopping start setting image acquired from the server 1.

[0056] The display control unit 104 outputs data of the first grouping setting image to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the shopping start instruction input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT2). The first grouping setting image is an image into which an instruction to set a group or an instruction not to set a group can be input. The instruction to set a group is an instruction to set a first group. The instruction not to set a group is an instruction not to set a first group. Examples of the first grouping setting image will be described later.

[0057] In ACT2, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires a start request from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The start request is a request output from the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on a shopping start instruction input by the first user via the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display control unit 104 generates data of a first grouping setting image based on the start request acquired by the communication unit 101. The display control unit 104 outputs the generated data of the first grouping setting image to the first user terminal 5-1-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires the data of the first grouping setting image from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the first grouping setting image on the display device 54 based on the data of the first grouping setting image acquired from the server 1.

[0058] The display control unit 104 determines whether the first user has input a group setting instruction or a group non-setting instruction via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT 3). In ACT 3, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires a group setting request from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The group setting request is a request output from the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the group setting instruction. The communication unit 101 acquires a group non-setting request from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The group non-setting request is a request output from the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the group non-setting instruction. The display control unit 104 determines that the group setting instruction has been input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the group non-setting request acquired by the communication unit 101. The display control unit 104 determines that the group non-setting instruction has been input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the group non-setting request acquired by the communication unit 101. If a group setting instruction is input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT3, YES), the process transitions from ACT3 to ACT4. If a group non-setting instruction is input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT3, NO), the process ends.

[0059] The display control unit 104 outputs data of the second grouping setting image to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the group setting instruction input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT4). The second grouping setting image is an image into which setting instructions for the multiple user terminals 5-1 constituting the first group can be input. An example of the second grouping setting image will be described later.

[0060] In ACT4, for example, the display control unit 104 generates data of a second grouping setting image based on a group setting request acquired by the communication unit 101. The display control unit 104 outputs the generated data of the second grouping setting image to the first user terminal 5-1-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires the data of the second grouping setting image from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the second grouping setting image on the display device 54 based on the data of the second grouping setting image acquired from the server 1.

[0061] The grouping processing unit 102 groups the multiple user terminals 5-1 into a first group based on user settings (ACT5). In ACT5, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires multiple terminal IDs of the multiple user terminals 5-1 constituting the first group from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The multiple terminal IDs of the multiple user terminals 5-1 are information output from the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on setting instructions for the multiple user terminals 5-1 input by the first user via the first user terminal 5-1-1. The grouping processing unit 102 sets a common transaction ID for the multiple terminal IDs of the multiple user terminals 5-1 acquired by the communication unit 101. Hereinafter, the transaction ID set in common to the multiple terminal IDs of the multiple user terminals is also referred to as a common transaction ID. The transaction ID set in common to the multiple terminal IDs of the multiple user terminals 5-1 is also referred to as a first common transaction ID. The grouping processing unit 102 groups the multiple user terminals 5-1 into a first group by setting a first common transaction ID for the terminal ID of each of the multiple user terminals 5-1. The grouping processing unit 102 associates the first common transaction ID with the terminal ID of each of the multiple user terminals 5-1 and stores the first common transaction ID in the terminal management data storage area 122. The grouping processing unit 102 updates the user terminal data based on the storage of the first common transaction ID.

[0062] The display control unit 104 outputs data of the grouping completion image to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the grouping of the multiple user terminals 5-1 by the grouping processing unit 102 (ACT6). The grouping completion image is an image that indicates the completion of grouping of the multiple user terminals 5-1. Examples of the grouping completion image will be described later.

[0063] In ACT6, for example, the display control unit 104 generates data of a grouped image based on grouping of multiple user terminals 5-1 by the grouping processing unit 102. The display control unit 104 outputs the generated data of the grouped image to the first user terminal 5-1-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires the data of the grouped image from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the grouped image on the display device 54 based on the data of the grouped image acquired from the server 1.

[0064] Note that if multiple user terminals 5-1 can communicate directly via Bluetooth (registered trademark) or the like, the processing of ACT4 may be omitted. In this example, the first user terminal 5-1-1 may acquire the terminal IDs of the other user terminals 5-1 by completing pairing with the other user terminals 5-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 may output the acquired terminal IDs of the multiple user terminals 5-1 to the server 1.

[0065] The display process performed by the server 1 on the user terminal 5-1 will now be described. First, the process of displaying registered products on the user terminal 5-1 by the server 1 will be described.

[0066] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the server 1 to display registered products on the user terminal 5-1. Here, an example is shown in which the server 1 outputs registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID to a plurality of user terminals 5-1 so as to be displayable.

[0067] The communication unit 101 acquires the product ID of a product registered using any one of the multiple user terminals 5-1 from the user terminal 5-1 used for product registration (ACT11). In ACT11, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires the product ID acquired by the user terminal 5-1 from the user terminal 5-1 based on the product registration using the user terminal 5-1.

[0068] The storage control unit 103 stores the registered product data of the product registered using the user terminal 5-1 in the auxiliary storage device 12 in association with the terminal ID identifying the user terminal 5-1 that registered the product and the transaction of the first group (ACT12). In ACT12, for example, the storage control unit 103 updates the registration list associated with the terminal ID of the user terminal 5-1 used to register the product based on the product ID acquired by the communication unit 101. If the registration list does not include registered product data for the product ID acquired by the communication unit 101, the storage control unit 103 stores the new registered product data in the registration list. The registered product data includes the product ID acquired by the communication unit 101 as the registered product ID. The registered product data includes the product name associated with the product ID acquired by the communication unit 101 in the product data. The registered product data includes a score. The score may be incremented by one each time a product is registered, or may be a value input via the user terminal 5-1 used to register the product. The registered product data includes an amount obtained based on the price and points associated with the product ID acquired by the communication unit 101 in the product data. If the registration list includes registered product data for the product ID acquired by the communication unit 101, the storage control unit 103 saves the updated registered product data in the registration list. The storage control unit 103 updates the points and price included in the registered product data. The registered product data for the product registered using the user terminal 5-1 is associated with a first common transaction ID in the user terminal data. As a result, the registered product data for the product registered using the user terminal 5-1 is associated with one transaction of a first group consisting of multiple user terminals 5-1. In this way, the storage control unit 103 saves the registered product data of the product stored in association with the first common transaction ID in the auxiliary storage device 12, in association with the terminal ID that identifies the user terminal 5-1 that registered the product. The storage control unit 103 updates the terminal management data based on the update of the registration list.

[0069] The display control unit 104 outputs the registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID to the grouped multiple user terminals 5-1 in a displayable manner based on the update of the terminal management data (ACT13). In ACT13, for example, the display control unit 104 outputs the registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID to all or some of the multiple user terminals 5-1 in a displayable manner. Here, an example will be described in which the display control unit 104 outputs the registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID to the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a displayable manner.

[0070] The display control unit 104 acquires registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID from the terminal management data. The registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID is registered product data of each product registered using any one of the multiple user terminals 5-1. The registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID is registered product data of all registered products associated with the first common transaction ID. All registered products associated with the first common transaction ID are all registered products registered using the multiple user terminals 5-1. Being associated with a common transaction ID is an example of being associated with a transaction of one group consisting of multiple user terminals. Being associated with a common transaction ID is an example of being associated with one group. Being associated with the first common transaction ID is an example of being associated with a transaction of a first group consisting of multiple user terminals 5-1. Being associated with the first common transaction ID is an example of being associated with a first group.

[0071] The display control unit 104 outputs registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID to the first user terminal 5-1-1 so as to be displayable. The registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID includes registered product data of each product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1. The registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID includes registered product data of each product registered using a user terminal 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 among the multiple user terminals 5-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays registered product images on the display device 54 based on the registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID acquired from the server 1. The registered product images are images showing registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID. Examples of registered product images will be described later.

[0072] The display control unit 104 may output the registered product data of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID so as to be displayable on the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a manner that allows the user terminal 5-1 used for product registration to be recognized. The recognizable manner may be a manner that allows recognition by characters, marks, colors, or the like. The recognizable manner includes a manner in which the registered product data of each registered product can be distinguished from each user terminal 5-1 used for product registration.

[0073] The processing of ACT13 will be described using the relationship between the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2 as an example. The display control unit 104 outputs registered product data of each product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 to the first user terminal 5-1-1 so as to be displayable. The display control unit 104 outputs registered product data of each product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2 to the first user terminal 5-1-1 so as to be displayable. The display control unit 104 outputs registered product data of each product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 to the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a manner that allows the first user terminal 5-1-1 to be recognized as the user terminal 5-1 used to register the product. The display control unit 104 outputs the registered product data of each product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2 to the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a displayable manner so that the second user terminal 5-1-2 can be recognized as the user terminal 5-1 used to register the product. Here, the output of registered product data from the server 1 to the first user terminal 5-1-1 has been described as an example, but the same applies to the output of registered product data from the server 1 to the second user terminal 5-1-2. The display control unit 104 may output the registered product data of each product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a displayable manner so that the first user terminal 5-1-1 can be recognized as the user terminal 5-1 used to register the product.

[0074] Next, a process of displaying a product list on the user terminal 5-1 by the server 1 will be described. A product list is electronic data of a memo indicating one or more products to be purchased and to be registered in the registration list. Product lists are created by users so that they can be shared among multiple users to efficiently register products while shopping.

[0075] For example, the product list is a list showing one or more products to be purchased. The product list may be input via any one of the multiple user terminals 5-1. The product list may be sent to all of the multiple user terminals 5-1. The product list may be sent to one or more user terminals 5-1 set in the user terminal 5-1 into which the product list was input.

[0076] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the server 1 to display a product list on the user terminal 5-1. Here, an example is shown in which the server 1 outputs product list data input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 to the second user terminal 5-1-2.

[0077] The communication unit 101 acquires the product list data input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 from the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT21).

[0078] The display control unit 104 outputs the product list data acquired by the communication unit 101 to the second user terminal 5-1-2 (ACT22). In ACT22, for example, the display control unit 104 outputs the product list data to the second user terminal 5-1-2. The second user terminal 5-1-2 acquires the product list data from the server 1. The second user terminal 5-1-2 displays an image of the product list on the display device 54 based on the product list data acquired from the server 1.

[0079] Next, the process by which the server 1 displays information about a transaction on the user terminal 5-1 will be described. Here, a transaction using the first user terminal 5-1-1 will be described as an example. Note that a transaction using any of the multiple user terminals 5-1 is the same as a transaction using the first user terminal 5-1-1.

[0080] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the display process performed by the server 1 on the user terminal 5-1 regarding a transaction. Here, an example is shown in which the server 1 outputs accounting image data to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on accounting instructions input via the first user terminal 5-1-1.

[0081] The display control unit 104 determines whether a checkout instruction has been input by the first user via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT31). The checkout instruction is an instruction to checkout a registered product associated with the first common transaction ID. The checkout instruction may be input using a registered product image. In ACT32, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires a checkout request from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The checkout request is a request output from the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the checkout instruction. The display control unit 104 determines that a checkout instruction has been input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the acquisition of the checkout request by the communication unit 101.

[0082] If a billing instruction is input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT31, YES), the process transitions from ACT31 to ACT 32. If a billing instruction is not input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT31, NO), the display control unit 104 continues the process of ACT31.

[0083] The display control unit 104 outputs data of a transaction image identifying the first group of transactions to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the transaction instruction input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT32). The transaction image identifying the first group of transactions is an image for identifying the first common transaction ID and for executing the transaction process for each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID. The total price of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID is the sum of the respective prices of all registered products associated with the first common transaction ID. The transaction image identifying the first group of transactions includes a code symbol for use in the transaction machine 2 to process the total price of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID. The first user can process all registered products associated with the first common transaction ID by having the transaction machine 2 read the code symbol included in the transaction image identifying the first group of transactions. Examples of transaction images are described below.

[0084] In ACT32, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires a transaction request from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The transaction request is a request output from the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on a transaction instruction input by the first user via the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display control unit 104 generates transaction image data identifying the first group of transactions based on the terminal management data and the transaction request acquired by the communication unit 101. The display control unit 104 outputs the generated transaction image data identifying the first group of transactions to the first user terminal 5-1-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires the transaction image data identifying the first group of transactions from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the transaction image identifying the first group of transactions on the display device 54 based on the transaction image data identifying the first group of transactions acquired from the server 1.

[0085] When transaction processing for a first group of transactions associated with the first common transaction ID is initiated via the first user terminal 5-1-1, the display control unit 104 outputs data of an end image to all user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 among the multiple user terminals 5-1 (ACT33). Transaction processing for a first group of transactions is initiated by having the transaction machine 2 read a code symbol. The end image is an image containing a notification that product registration is being terminated. For example, the end image is an image containing a notification that product registration for the first group of transactions is being terminated. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the end image may be an image containing a notification that transaction processing has begun or that transaction processing is in progress. Examples of end images are described below.

[0086] In ACT33, for example, the communication unit 501 obtains information regarding the start of the transaction via the first user terminal 5-1-1 from the payment machine 2. Based on the start of the transaction via the first user terminal 5-1-1, the display control unit 104 outputs data of the end image to the user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 among the multiple user terminals 5-1. For example, the user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 include all user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1, such as the second user terminal 5-1-2. The user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 obtain data of the end image from the server 1. The user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 display the end image on the display device 54 based on the data of the end image obtained from the server 1.

[0087] When the restriction processing unit 105 receives a checkout instruction for each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID via the first user terminal 5-1-1, it restricts product registration using user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 among the multiple user terminals 5-1 (ACT 34). In ACT 34, for example, the restriction processing unit 105 outputs a control signal to user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 to prevent product registration or checkout operations for treating the first group as a single transaction. Based on the control signal from the server 1, the user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 are controlled to prevent product registration or checkout operations for treating the first group as a single transaction. The user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 may be controlled to prevent product registration or checkout operations for treating the first group as a single transaction by not displaying the end image. The control method for preventing product registration is not limited.

[0088] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing another example of the transaction-related display process performed by the server 1 on the user terminal 5-1. Here, an example is shown in which the server 1 outputs data of the accounting object setting image to the first user terminal 5-1-1 before outputting data of the accounting image based on accounting instructions input via the first user terminal 5-1-1.

[0089] The display control unit 104 determines whether a billing instruction has been input by the first user via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT41). The processing in ACT41 may be the same as ACT31. If a billing instruction has been input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT41, YES), the processing transitions from ACT41 to ACT42. If a billing instruction has not been input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT41, NO), the display control unit 104 continues the processing in ACT41.

[0090] The display control unit 104 outputs data of the transaction object setting image to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the transaction instruction input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT42). The transaction object setting image is an image for setting transaction objects among the registered products associated with the first common transaction ID on a per-user terminal basis. The transaction objects are registered products registered using at least one user terminal 5-1 of the multiple user terminals 5-1 that make up the first group. The transaction objects may also be registered products registered using some of the multiple user terminals 5-1. The some user terminals 5-1 may be one user terminal 5-1, or two or more user terminals 5-1. The transaction objects may also be registered products registered using all of the multiple user terminals 5-1. Examples of transaction object setting images will be described later.

[0091] In ACT42, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires a transaction request from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display control unit 104 generates transaction object setting image data based on the transaction request acquired by the communication unit 101. The display control unit 104 outputs the generated transaction object setting image data to the first user terminal 5-1-1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires the transaction object setting image data from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the transaction object setting image on the display device 54 based on the transaction object setting image data acquired from the server 1.

[0092] The display control unit 104 outputs data of a transaction image of the transaction object to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the transaction object input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 (ACT43). The transaction image of the transaction object is an image used to perform transaction processing for each registered item of the transaction object. The total price of each registered item of the transaction object is the sum of the respective prices of all registered items of the transaction object. If the transaction object is registered items registered using some of the user terminals 5-1, the total price of the transaction object is the sum of the respective prices of each registered item registered using some of the user terminals 5-1. The total price of each registered item registered using some of the user terminals 5-1 is the sum of the respective prices of all registered items associated with the terminal IDs of some of the user terminals 5-1. If the transaction object is registered items registered using all user terminals 5-1, the total price of the transaction object is the sum of the respective prices of each registered item registered using all of the user terminals 5-1. The total price of each registered product registered using all user terminals 5-1 is the sum of the respective prices of all registered products associated with the terminal IDs of all user terminals 5-1. The transaction image of the transaction item includes a code symbol for calculating the total price of the transaction item on the transaction machine 2. The first user can complete the transaction for the transaction item by having the transaction machine 2 read the code symbol included in the transaction image of the transaction item.

[0093] In ACT43, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires information indicating a transaction item from the first user terminal 5-1-1. The information indicating the transaction item is information output from the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the transaction item input by the first user via the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display control unit 104 outputs transaction image data for the transaction item to the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the information indicating the transaction item acquired by the communication unit 101. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires transaction image data for the transaction item from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the transaction image for the transaction item on the display device 54 based on the transaction image data for the transaction item acquired from the server 1.

[0094] The point conversion process performed by the server 1 will be described.

[0095] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the point conversion process by the server 1. Here, the point conversion process in the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2 will be described as an example. Note that the server 1 may perform the same process for a plurality of second user terminals 5-1-2.

[0096] The server 1 performs the following information processing based on the event start instruction input via the user terminal 5-1. The event start instruction is an instruction related to starting an event in the second user terminal 5-1-2. The event start instruction may be input via the first user terminal 5-1-1 or the second user terminal 5-1-2. When the event start instruction is input via the first user terminal 5-1-1, the server 1 communicates with the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the event start instruction. When the event start instruction is input via the second user terminal 5-1-2, the server 1 may output, to the first user terminal 5-1-1, information indicating that the event will be started in the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the event start instruction, so as to be displayable.

[0097] For example, the event may be a game in which event points can be earned on the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on a user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2. The event may also be playback of a video in which event points can be earned on the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on a playback operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2. The user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2 is an operation by the second user via the input device 55 of the second user terminal 5-1-2. Event points are points earned in the event based on the user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2. If the event is a game, the event points are a score earned based on the user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2. The event points are calculated based on the user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2 as the event progresses, based on known technology. The event points are an example of points. The event points may be calculated on the second user terminal 5-1-2 or the server 1.

[0098] The display control unit 104 outputs data of an event image to the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on an event start instruction input via the user terminal 5-1 (ACT51). The event image is an image of an event that can be operated on the second user terminal 5-1-2. The event image may be an AR (Augmented Reality) image superimposed on an image of the store interior captured by the camera 58 of the second user terminal 5-1-2. The event image may be a game image or an image of a video being played.

[0099] In ACT51, for example, the display control unit 104 acquires an event request from the user terminal 5-1. The event request is a request output from the user terminal 5-1 based on an event instruction input via the user terminal 5-1. The display control unit 104 outputs event image data to the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the event request acquired by the communication unit 101. The second user terminal 5-1-2 acquires the event image data from the server 1. The second user terminal 5-1-2 displays the event image on the display device 54 based on the acquired event image data. If the event is a game, the display control unit 104 outputs game image data to the second user terminal 5-1-2.

[0100] The communication unit 101 acquires event points based on a user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2 from the second user terminal 5-1-2 via the communication interface 13 (ACT 52). In ACT 52, for example, the communication unit 101 acquires event points from the second user terminal 5-1-2 each time the event points acquired on the second user terminal 5-1-2 are updated in response to a user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2. The communication unit 101 may acquire event points based on a user operation on the second user terminal 5-1-2 from the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the event being ended by the second user terminal 5-1-2. If the multiple user terminals 5-1 include multiple second user terminals 5-1-2, the communication unit 101 may acquire event points from each of the multiple second user terminals 5-1-2. The communication unit 101 may store the event points in the terminal management data storage area 122.

[0101] The communication unit 101 may set an upper limit on the number of event points that can be acquired by the second user terminal 5-1-2. For example, the communication unit 101 may set an upper limit on the number of event points that can be acquired by the second user terminal 5-1-2 in a single event. The communication unit 101 may set an upper limit on the number of event points that can be acquired by the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the total price of the registered products associated with the first common transaction ID. In this example, the upper limit on the number of event points that can be acquired by the second user terminal 5-1-2 may increase as the total price of the registered products associated with the first common transaction ID increases. For example, the upper limit on the number of event points that can be acquired by the second user terminal 5-1-2 is higher when the total price of the registered products associated with the first common transaction ID is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount than when it is less than the predetermined amount.

[0102] When the event points acquired in the second user terminal 5-1-2 reach the upper limit of the event points that can be acquired, the communication unit 101 may output a notification to the second user terminal 5-1-2. For example, the notification may be a notification indicating that the upper limit of the event points has been reached, or a notification indicating that the event is ending.

[0103] The setting unit 106 sets discount points for the first user of the first user terminal 5-1-1 based on the event points of the second user terminal 5-1-2 (ACT 53). In ACT 53, for example, the setting unit 106 calculates discount points from the event points based on a predetermined point conversion method. The predetermined point conversion method may be set in advance, or may be set or updated as appropriate by an administrator or the like.

[0104] The predetermined point conversion method may be changed based on the user information of the first user. For example, the user information includes information on membership rank. The membership rank is a rank based on purchase history, etc. The terminal management data storage area 122 may store the user information of the first user in association with the first user terminal 5-1-1. In this example, the point conversion rate may increase as the first user's membership rank increases. For example, the point conversion rate is higher when the first user's membership rank is equal to or higher than a predetermined rank than when the first user's membership rank is lower than the predetermined rank.

[0105] The predetermined point conversion method may be changed based on the total price of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID. In this example, the point conversion rate may be higher as the total price of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID increases. For example, the point conversion rate may be higher when the total price of each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount than when it is less than the predetermined amount.

[0106] The setting unit 106 may calculate discount points from the updated event points every time the event points acquired in the second user terminal 5-1-2 are updated. In this example, the setting unit 106 updates the discount points based on the updated event points. The setting unit 106 may calculate discount points from the event points acquired in the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the event being ended by the second user terminal 5-1-2. If the multiple user terminals 5-1 include multiple second user terminals 5-1-2, the setting unit 106 may calculate discount points from multiple event points acquired in each of the multiple second user terminals 5-1-2. In this example, the setting unit 106 may calculate discount points based on the event points obtained by adding up the multiple event points. The setting unit 106 sets the calculated discount points for the first user. The setting unit 106 may store the calculated discount points in the terminal management data storage area 122 in association with the first user.

[0107] The display control unit 104 outputs the discount point information to the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a displayable manner (ACT54). In ACT54, for example, the display control unit 104 outputs the discount point information set by the setting unit 106 to the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a displayable manner. The first user terminal 5-1-1 acquires the discount point information from the server 1. The first user terminal 5-1-1 displays the acquired discount point information on the display device 54. The display control unit 104 may output the discount point information updated based on the update of the event points to the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a displayable manner. In this example, the display control unit 104 may output the updated discount point information to the first user terminal 5-1-1 every time the event points are updated. The display control unit 104 may output the discount point information to the first user terminal 5-1-1 in a displayable manner based on the event being ended by the second user terminal 5-1-2.

[0108] The display control unit 104 may output information about the discount points to the first user terminal 5-1-1 so that the information can be displayed on the registered product image. Every time the setting unit 106 updates the discount points, the display control unit 104 may output information about the updated discount points as a pop-up notification to the first user terminal 5-1-1 so that the information can be displayed. The display control unit 104 may output information about the discount points to the second user terminal 5-1-2 so that the information can be displayed. Every time the setting unit 106 updates the discount points, the display control unit 104 may output information about the updated discount points as a pop-up notification to the second user terminal 5-1-2 so that the information can be displayed.

[0109] When a user registers as a member of the second user terminal 5-1-2 and logs in, and an event start instruction is input, the display control unit 104 may output event image data to the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the user information of the second user. In this example, the user information includes history information of events executed on the second user terminal 5-1-2. For example, the event history information includes information on games previously played by the second user on the second user terminal 5-1-2. The terminal management data storage area 122 may store the user information of the second user in association with the second user terminal 5-1-2. The display control unit 104 may output event image data of a game different from the previously played game to the second user terminal 5-1-2 based on the event history information. The display control unit 104 may change the difficulty level of the game based on the event history information. This allows the second user to enjoy the event without getting bored, thereby increasing the interest of the event.

[0110] (Display example) An example of an image displayed on the user terminal 5-1 will be described. Here, the image display on the first user terminal 5-1-1 will be mainly described as an example. Note that the image display on any of the multiple user terminals 5-1 is the same as the image display on the first user terminal 5-1-1.

[0111] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a shopping start setting image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a shopping start setting image 701. The shopping start setting image 701 includes an object 801 into which a shopping start instruction can be input. The object 801 may be a touch button.

[0112] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the first grouping setting image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a first grouping setting image 702. The first grouping setting image 702 includes an object 802 through which a group setting instruction can be input and an object 803 through which a group non-setting instruction can be input. The object 802 may be a touch button. The object 803 may be a touch button.

[0113] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the second grouping setting image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a second grouping setting image 703. The second grouping setting image 703 includes a plurality of objects 804 into which setting instructions for the plurality of user terminals 5-1 can be input. The objects 804 may be touch buttons. The second grouping setting image 703 includes an object 805 into which a confirmation instruction to group the plurality of user terminals 5-1 into the first group can be input after input of setting instructions for the plurality of user terminals 5-1. The object 805 may be a touch button.

[0114] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a grouping completion image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a grouping completion image 704. The grouping completion image 704 indicates the completion of grouping of the multiple user terminals 5-1.

[0115] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a pairing in progress image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a pairing in progress image 705. The pairing in progress image 705 is an image indicating that the first user terminal 5-1-1 is in the process of pairing with another user terminal 5-1.

[0116] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a pairing completion image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a pairing completion image 706. The pairing completion image 706 is an image indicating that pairing between the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the other user terminal 5-1 has been completed.

[0117] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a registered product image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a registered product image 707. The registered product image 707 includes a notification 901 indicating the number of user terminals 5-1 constituting the first group. In this example, the notification 901 indicates that the first group is composed of two user terminals: the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2. The registered product image 707 includes a mark 902 that clearly indicates the user terminal 5-1 used to register the product. In this example, the "1" indicated by the mark 902 indicates the first user terminal 5-1-1. The "2" indicated by the mark 902 indicates the second user terminal 5-1-2. The mark 902 is displayed for each registered product so that it is clear which user terminal 5-1 registered each product. The mark 902 may also indicate the number of the shopping cart C in which the user terminal 5-1 is installed. Note that the registered product image 707 may display, for each user terminal 5-1, the total points of each registered product registered using the user terminal 5-1. In this example, a mark 902 is displayed for each point so that it is clear which user terminal 5-1 registered the product using each point. For example, the registered product image 707 displays the total points of each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the total points of each registered product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2. The "1" indicated by the mark 902 is displayed in association with the total points of each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1. The "2" indicated by the mark 902 is displayed in association with the total points of each registered product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2.

[0118] The registered product image 707 includes a registered product information display area 903 that displays registered product data for each registered product associated with the first common transaction ID. The registered product information display area 903 is an area that displays the registered product name, number of items, price, etc. for each registered product. The registered product information display area 903 displays the registered product data for each registered product in chronological order, but is not limited to this. The registered product information display area 903 may display the registered product data for each registered product for each user terminal 5-1 in a consolidated manner. The registered product information display area 903 may display the registered product data for each registered product registered using the user's own user terminal 5-1 at the top. For example, the registered product information display area 903 may display a group of registered product data for each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 and a group of registered product data for each registered product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2 separately. The registered product information display area 903 may display a group of registered product data for each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 above a group of registered product data for each registered product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2. The display order of the registered product data for each registered product as described above may be changeable based on an instruction to change the display order input via the input device 55.

[0119] The registered product image 707 includes a point display area 904. The point display area 904 is an area that displays information on discount points based on event points. The point display area 904 may also be an area that displays information on event points acquired by a second user. For example, a case will be described in which "10 points" of event points are converted into "10 yen" discount points. The point display area 904 displays information on event points such as "30 points" and information on discount points based on the event points such as "30 yen discount." The discount point information is not limited to being displayed in "yen," and may also be information such as "xx percent discount" that indicates the discount rate.

[0120] The price display area 905 displays the total points "X" obtained by adding up the prices of all registered products associated with the first common transaction ID and the total price "¥xxxxx" obtained by adding up the prices of all registered products associated with the first common transaction ID. The total price may be the price after discount points have been applied or the price before discount points have been applied. The price display area 905 displays the total points of all registered products registered using the user terminal 5-1 for each user terminal 5-1 as a breakdown of the total points. For example, the price display area 905 displays the total points "Y" obtained by adding up the prices of all registered products registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the total points "Z" obtained by adding up the prices of all registered products registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2 as a breakdown of the total points "X" (X = Y + Z). Note that when the price display area 905 displays the breakdown of the total points, the registered product image 707 does not need to display the points for each user terminal 5-1 in association with the mark 902, as described above. The registered product image 707 includes an object 806 into which payment instructions can be input. The object 806 may be a touch button.

[0121] FIG. 20 shows an example of a transaction image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the user terminal 5-1 displays a transaction image 708. The transaction image 708 includes a transaction barcode, which is a code symbol for calculating the total amount at the transaction machine 2. The transaction barcode is information for identifying the transaction registered for the product at the user terminal 5. The transaction barcode includes, for example, a transaction ID or a common transaction ID.

[0122] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a final image displayed on the user terminal 5-1. The display device 54 of the user terminal 5-1 displays an end image 709. The end image 709 indicates the end of product registration. When the first user uses the first user terminal 5-1-1 to have the payment machine 2 read the payment barcode included in the payment image that identifies the transaction of the first group, the user terminals 5-1 other than the first user terminal 5-1-1 display the end image 709.

[0123] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a transaction object setting image displayed on the first user terminal 5-1-1. The display device 54 of the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a transaction object setting image 710. Here, the first group is assumed to consist of two users: the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2. The transaction object setting image 710 includes an object 807 that allows input of settings for specifying each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 as a transaction object. When the first user presses the object 807, the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays a transaction image on the display device 54, showing each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 as a transaction object. The first user can complete the transaction for each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 by having the transaction machine 2 read the transaction barcode included in the transaction image for that transaction object. The transaction object setting image 710 also includes an object 808 that allows input of settings for specifying each registered product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2 as a transaction object. When the first user presses object 808, the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays on the display device 54 a transaction image showing each registered product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2 as the transaction object. The first user can complete the transaction for each registered product registered using the second user terminal 5-1-2 by having the transaction machine 2 read the transaction barcode included in the transaction image for that transaction object. The transaction object setting image 710 includes an object 809 that can be used to input settings for specifying each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2 as the transaction object. When the first user presses object 809, the first user terminal 5-1-1 displays on the display device 54 a transaction image showing each registered product registered using the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2 as the transaction object. The first user can pay for each registered product using the first user terminal 5-1-1 and the second user terminal 5-1-2 by having the payment machine 2 read the payment barcode included in the payment image of the payment item. Objects 807, 808, and 809 may be touch buttons.

[0124] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of an event image displayed on the second user terminal 5-1-2. FIG. 23 shows an example in which the event image is a game image. The game involves finding animals hidden in an image of a store interior. Event points increase each time an animal is found. For example, 10 event points are added for each animal found. The event image includes a message display area 906, a point display area 907, and multiple objects 908. The message display area 906 is an area for displaying a message indicating the content of the event. For example, the message is text data such as "Find the animals!" The point display area 907 is an area for displaying information about the event points obtained at the second user terminal 5-1-2. For example, the point display area 907 displays text data such as "I found three animals" or "30 points." The multiple objects 908 are objects related to the event. For example, the multiple objects 908 are animal objects.

[0125] The second user can play the game in accordance with the event image and earn event points. The additional points added to the event points based on a user operation may be set based on the user information of the first user. In this example, the additional points may be higher as the first user's membership rank increases. For example, the additional points may be higher when the first user's membership rank is equal to or higher than a predetermined rank than when the first user's membership rank is lower than the predetermined rank. The additional points may be set based on the user information of the second user. In this example, the user information includes information on event points previously acquired by the second user on the second user terminal 5-1-2. The additional points may be higher as the event points previously acquired by the second user increase. For example, the additional points may be higher when the event points previously acquired by the second user are equal to or higher than a predetermined point than when the event points are lower than the predetermined point.

[0126] (effect) The information processing device according to the embodiment groups multiple terminals, including a first terminal and a second terminal, into one group, on which products can be registered based on user settings, obtains points based on user operations on the second terminal from the second terminal, and sets discount information for the user of the first terminal based on the points. As a result, the information processing device can convert points acquired at the second terminal into discount information and apply it to the first user. For example, if the second terminal is a terminal used by a child and the first terminal is a terminal used by a parent, the child can enjoy an event such as a game while the parent is shopping. Therefore, when parent and child go shopping together, the child does not get bored and the parent can shop efficiently, improving the convenience of shopping. In this way, the information processing device can improve the convenience of shopping for multiple people.

[0127] The information processing device according to the embodiment can output discount information so as to be displayable on the first terminal. This allows the information processing device to allow the user of the first terminal to recognize the discount information. In the above example, the parent can recognize the points that the child has earned through the event and the discount information based on those points. The parent can also understand the child's behavior related to the event. Because the parent can easily recognize the child's behavior and the discount information obtained based on that behavior, the parent can shop efficiently. In this way, the information processing device can improve the convenience of shopping with multiple people.

[0128] The information processing device according to the embodiment can display updated discount information on the first terminal based on the updated points. This allows the information processing device to make the user of the first terminal aware of the updated discount information. In the above example, the parent can be aware of the updated discount information based on the update of the points the child has earned through the event. The parent can keep track of the child's event-related behavior in a timely manner. The parent can easily recognize the child's behavior and the discount information obtained based on it, allowing the parent to shop efficiently. In this way, the information processing device can improve the convenience of shopping with multiple people.

[0129] [Other embodiments] The information processing device may be realized by one electronic device such as the server 1, or may be realized by a plurality of electronic devices with distributed functions.

[0130] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in an electronic device, or in a state where it is not stored in an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it is a medium that can store the program and is computer-readable, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card.

[0131] 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 scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0132] 1...server, 2...accounting machine, 3...access point, 4...attendant terminal, 5...user terminal, 5-1...user terminal, 5-1-1...first user terminal, 5-1-2...second user terminal, 6...network, 10...processor, 11...main memory, 12...auxiliary storage device, 13...communication interface, 50...processor, 51...main memory, 52...auxiliary storage device, 53...communication interface, 54...display device, 55...input device, 56...speaker, 57...microphone, 58...camera, 59...scanner, 101...communication unit, 102...grouping processing unit, 103...storage control unit, 104...display control unit, 105...restriction processing unit, 106...setting unit, 121...product management data storage area, 122...terminal management data storage area, 701...shopping start setting image, 702...first grouping setting image, 703...second grouping setting image, 704...grouping completion image, 705...pairing in progress image, 706...pairing completion image, 707...registered product image, 708...checkout image, 709...end image, 801-809...object, 901...notification, 902...mark, 903...registered product information display area, 904...point display area, 905...amount display area, 906...message display area, 907...point display area, 908...object, C...shopping cart.

Claims

1. a grouping processing unit that groups a plurality of terminals, including a first terminal capable of registering a product and a second terminal capable of operating a game, into one group based on user settings; a display control unit that outputs game image data to the second terminal; a communication unit that acquires, from the second terminal, a game score obtained based on a user operation on the second terminal; a setting unit that sets discount information converted based on the score to the user of the first terminal; An information processing device comprising:

2. a display control unit that outputs the discount information so that the discount information can be displayed on the first terminal; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The display control unit outputs the updated discount information based on the update of the score to the first terminal so as to be displayable thereon. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. The discount information is points that can be applied to a transaction. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. On the computer, a function of grouping a plurality of terminals, including a first terminal capable of registering products and a second terminal capable of operating a game, into one group based on user settings; a function of outputting game image data to the second terminal; a function of acquiring, from the second terminal, a game score obtained based on a user operation on the second terminal; a function of setting discount information converted based on the score to the user of the first terminal; An information processing program for executing the above.

Images