Information processing systems and novelties

Abstract

To provide an information processing system and a novelty item used therein, which can enhance the effect of advertising and publicity and improve the service utilization rate of consumers. [Solution] In an information processing system, a processing device for a service user (user terminal device) held by a service user has a reading unit that reads a code symbol that encodes access information for accessing service provision information related to a service provider, an output unit that outputs service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit that receives service usage information corresponding to the service provision information, and a processing device for a service provider (provider terminal device) that holds information about the service provider has a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information, and a memory unit that stores the service usage information, and a novelty is attached to a hanger and has a code symbol that encodes the access information generated by the generation unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Traditionally, companies have distributed novelties with the company name or product name printed on them to consumers in their advertising activities. Common novelties include a wide range of items such as pens, cups, memo paper, and wet wipes. These novelties are more likely to attract consumers' attention than flyers, pamphlets, etc., and are considered to have a high advertising effect.

[0003] However, simply printing the company name or product name on a novelty item limits the amount of information that can be conveyed, making it difficult to move on to the next stage of consumer behavior. Therefore, a method has been adopted in which a two-dimensional code is attached to the packaging or the novelty item itself, and the consumer's mobile device can read the code. This allows consumers to easily access websites that contain company and product information, enabling them to obtain more information.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a business card-shaped novelty item. The novelty item has a two-dimensional code attached thereto, which stores the URL of the company's webpage to which the novelty distributor belongs. The recipient of the novelty item can access the company's webpage by taking a picture of the two-dimensional code using a camera on their smartphone, for example. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-180160 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, the problem with the above-mentioned novelties is that they are quickly discarded or used infrequently, meaning that they do not have much advertising effect. Even if the novelties are not quickly discarded, repeated use of the novelties can cause the printed surface of the two-dimensional code to become dirty or fade, making the two-dimensional code unreadable. For this reason, simply distributing novelties with two-dimensional codes has been insufficient as a sales strategy utilizing novelties.

[0007] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of such problems, and its purpose is to provide an information processing system that can enhance advertising effectiveness and increase consumer service utilization rates, as well as novelties to be used therewith. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing system including a service user processing device owned by a service user, a service provider processing device having information on a service provider, and a novelty item having a code symbol attached thereto, wherein the service user processing device has a reading unit that reads the code symbol encoding access information for accessing service provision information related to the service provider, an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit that receives service usage information corresponding to the service provision information, and the service provider processing device performs a process related to the service provision information based on the service usage information. and the service provider provides it directly to the service user. The service information storage unit includes a processing unit that performs processing for allowing the service user to use the service, and a storage unit that stores the service use information, and the novelty is attached to a hanger. Assemble Installed the service provision information is a website that accepts reservations for use of the service, the service usage information is information for the service user to apply for a reservation for use of the service to the service provider, and the processing unit transmits the service usage information to the storage unit, performs processing related to the reservation application for use of the service, and transmits a notification to the service user processing device that the reservation for use of the service has been accepted; Information processing system." is provided.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing system including a service user processing device owned by a service user, a service provider processing device having information on a service provider, and a novelty item having a code symbol attached thereto, wherein the service user processing device has a reading unit that reads the code symbol encoding access information for accessing service provision information related to the service provider, an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit that receives service usage information corresponding to the service provision information, and the service provider processing device performs a process related to the service provision information based on the service usage information. and the service provider provides it directly to the service user. The service service includes a processing unit that performs processing for allowing the service user to use the service, and a storage unit that stores the service use information, and the novelty has a deodorizing function. Making the material flexible Sheet material Deodorizing sheet attached to Because the service provision information is a website that accepts reservations for use of the service, the service usage information is information for the service user to apply for a reservation for use of the service to the service provider, and the processing unit transmits the service usage information to the storage unit, performs processing related to the reservation application for use of the service, and transmits a notification to the service user processing device that the reservation for use of the service has been accepted. Information processing system." is provided.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided "a novelty attached with a code symbol, which is used in an information processing system including a processing device for a service user having a reading unit that reads the code symbol, which encodes access information for accessing service provision information related to a service provider, an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit to which service usage information corresponding to the service provision information is input, and a processing device for a service provider having a processing unit that performs processing to allow the service user to use the service related to the service provision information based on the service usage information, and a memory unit that stores the service usage information, and the novelty is made of a sheet member with a deodorizing function and is attached to a hanger." [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an information processing system and a novelty item to be used therewith that can enhance advertising effectiveness and increase the rate at which consumers use services.

[0012] It should be noted that the above effects are merely examples for the sake of convenience of explanation, and the effects of the present disclosure are not limited to these. In addition to the above effects, the present disclosure can achieve any of the effects described herein. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a provider terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the user terminal device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the server device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a functional block diagram of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6(a) is a schematic diagram showing the deodorizing sheet according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 6(b) is a schematic diagram showing the deodorizing sheet according to the first embodiment in use. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing processing in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of an information processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an information processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a data table stored in a provider terminal device according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The information processing system according to the present disclosure and the deodorizing sheet used as a novelty therein will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the content described below and can be implemented with any modifications within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the drawings used in each embodiment are schematic illustrations of the information processing system according to the present disclosure and the deodorizing sheet used as a novelty therein. To facilitate understanding, some parts may be emphasized, enlarged, reduced, or omitted, and the scale and shape of each component may not be accurately represented. Furthermore, some numerical values ​​used in each embodiment are merely examples and can be modified as necessary. The same reference symbols are used to designate common components in the drawings.

[0015] First Embodiment An overview of an information processing system according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. In particular, Fig. 1 shows various processes and responses when a service user applies for use of a predetermined service using a novelty item distributed by a service provider.

[0016] First, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 1, a service provider provides a service to a service user and distributes a novelty item. A "service provider" refers to a person who provides a predetermined service, and in this embodiment, an accommodation facility is assumed, but is not limited to this. A service provider may be, for example, a dry cleaning shop or a restaurant. Note that a service provider may also be simply referred to as a "provider" below.

[0017] A "service user" refers to a person who receives a service from a provider, and in this embodiment, a user of an accommodation facility is assumed, but is not limited to this. A service user may be, for example, a user of a dry cleaning shop or a user of a restaurant. In the following, a service user may also be simply referred to as a "user."

[0018] A "novelty" refers to an item that is distributed free of charge, rather than in exchange for payment. Specific examples of novelties will be described later in FIG. 6. Furthermore, the method of distributing novelties is not limited to handing them over from the provider to the user. For example, the provider may place a novelty item in the user's room in advance and allow the user to take the novelty home. In other words, in this disclosure, novelties include amenities.

[0019] Here, a code symbol is attached to the novelty. The code symbol is an encoded form of access information for accessing the provider's service provision information, and may be a two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may be a matrix type such as QR Code (registered trademark) or a stack type such as PDF417.

[0020] In the next step, as shown in the center of Figure 1, the user reads the code symbol attached to the novelty item using their own user terminal device. Then, based on the obtained access information, the user terminal device accesses the server device storing the provider's service provision information and displays the service provision information to the user.

[0021] "Access information" refers to the URL of a specific web page. "Service provision information" refers to information that indicates the content of the service that the provider provides to the user. The service provision information may be the homepage of the accommodation facility (provider) website, a page that allows users to select their next accommodation plan, or even a page that allows users to make a reservation for the same accommodation plan as the one they used last time.

[0022] If a user who has checked the service provision information wishes to use the service again, the user applies for service use to the provider. In other words, the information processing system in the present disclosure is a system that allows the provider to encourage users to "repeat use" of the service.

[0023] (Configuration of processing device for service provider) With reference to FIG. 2, the specific configuration of the provider terminal device (processing device for a service provider) according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the provider terminal device 10 according to this embodiment. Note that the provider terminal device 10 does not need to have all of the components shown in FIG. 2, and it is possible to adopt a configuration in which some components are omitted, or to add other components. Furthermore, the provider terminal device 10 does not need to have the components shown in FIG. 2 in a single housing, and it is also possible to distribute the components and processing of the provider terminal device 10 to multiple server devices or cloud server devices.

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

[0025] The provider terminal device 10 is typically a wirelessly capable terminal device such as a laptop or desktop computer, but is not limited to such devices. For example, the provider terminal device 10 can be suitably applied to any device capable of executing the program according to the present disclosure, such as a feature phone, a personal digital assistant, a smartphone, a tablet, a PDA, a portable game console, or a home game console. Furthermore, when multiple provider terminal devices 10 are capable of communicating with the server device 30 (described below), the provider terminal devices 10 do not necessarily have to be the same or the same type of terminal device, but may be different types of terminal devices. That is, different providers may use different types of terminals, and one provider may use multiple terminals of different types.

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

[0027] The processor 11 is configured as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and has the function of controlling other connected components based on various programs stored in the memory 12. Specifically, the processor 11 reads and executes programs for executing information processing according to the present disclosure and programs for executing an OS from the memory 12. In this embodiment, the processor 11 particularly executes processing related to the information shown in FIG. 5. The processor 11 may be configured as a single CPU or GPU, or may be configured by combining multiple CPUs and GPUs.

[0028] The memory 12 is composed of a ROM, a RAM, a non-volatile memory, a HDD, etc., and functions as a storage unit 18, which will be described later. The ROM stores instructions and commands for executing the application and OS according to the present disclosure as a program. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the processor 11. The non-volatile memory is a memory into which data is written and read as the program is executed, and the data written therein is saved even after the execution of the program has ended. In this embodiment, the memory 12 stores a program for executing processing relating to the information shown in FIG. 5 in particular, and also stores various received information as shown in FIG. 5.

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

[0030] The communication processing circuit 13a performs processing based on a wideband wireless communication system such as the LTE system, but can also perform processing based on a narrowband wireless communication system or a contactless wireless communication system such as a wireless LAN such as IEEE802.11 or Bluetooth (registered trademark). Also, wired communication can be used instead of or in addition to wireless communication.

[0031] The input unit 14 is composed of a mouse, hard keys, etc., and has the function of accepting input of instructions for executing the program according to this embodiment, operation input for registering various information, etc. The input unit 14 may have a touch panel instead of a mouse, and the touch panel method may be a known method such as a resistive film method, a capacitive coupling method, or an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave method.

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

[0033] The generation unit 16 has a function of generating a code symbol that encodes access information for accessing the service provision information in response to an instruction from the processor 11. Specifically, the generation unit 16 converts the numbers, letters, symbols, and other information of the URL of the web page on which the service provision information is posted according to a certain rule, and generates a two-dimensional code (QR Code (registered trademark)).

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

[0035] Typical examples of user terminal devices 20 include wireless communication-capable terminal devices such as smartphones and tablets, but are not limited to such devices. For example, user terminal devices 20 can be suitably applied to any device capable of executing the program according to the present disclosure, such as a feature phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a PDA, a portable game console, or a home game console. Furthermore, when multiple user terminal devices 20 are capable of communicating with a server device 30 (described below), the user terminal devices 20 do not necessarily have to be the same or the same type of terminal device; they may be different types of terminal devices. That is, different users may use different types of terminals, and even a single user may use multiple terminals of different types.

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

[0037] The processor 21 is configured as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and has the function of controlling other connected components based on various programs stored in the memory 22. Specifically, the processor 21 reads and executes programs for executing information processing according to the present disclosure and programs for executing an OS from the memory 22. In this embodiment, the processor 21 particularly executes processing related to the information shown in FIG. 5. The processor 21 may be configured as a single CPU or GPU, or may be configured by combining multiple CPUs and GPUs.

[0038] The memory 22 is composed of a ROM, a RAM, a non-volatile memory, a HDD, etc., and functions as a storage unit. The ROM stores instructions and commands for executing the application and OS according to the present disclosure as a program. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the processor 21. The non-volatile memory is a memory into which data is written and read as the program is executed, and the data written therein is saved even after the execution of the program has ended. In this embodiment, the memory 22 stores a program for executing processing relating to the information shown in FIG. 5 in particular.

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

[0040] The communication processing circuit 23a performs processing based on a wideband wireless communication system such as the LTE system, but can also perform processing based on a narrowband wireless communication system or a contactless wireless communication system such as a wireless LAN such as IEEE802.11 or Bluetooth (registered trademark). Also, wired communication can be used instead of or in addition to wireless communication.

[0041] The input unit 24 is configured with a touch panel and has the function of accepting input of instructions related to the execution of the program according to this embodiment, operation input for registering various information, etc. As the touch panel type, known types such as a resistive film type, a capacitive coupling type, an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave type, etc. The input unit 24 may have a mouse or hard keys instead of a touch panel.

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

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

[0044] (Server device configuration) A specific configuration of the server device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the server device 30 according to this embodiment. Note that the server device 30 does not need to include all of the components shown in FIG. 4, and it is possible to adopt a configuration in which some components are omitted, or to add other components. Furthermore, the server device 30 does not need to include the components shown in FIG. 4 in a single housing, and it is also possible to distribute the components and processes of the server device 30 to multiple server devices or cloud server devices.

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

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

[0047] The processor 31 is configured as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and has the function of controlling other connected components based on various programs stored in the memory 32. Specifically, the processor 31 reads and executes programs for executing information processing according to the present disclosure and programs for executing an OS from the memory 32. In this embodiment, the processor 31 particularly executes processing related to the information shown in FIG. 5. The processor 31 may be configured as a single CPU or GPU, or may be configured by combining multiple CPUs and GPUs.

[0048] The memory 32 is composed of a ROM, a RAM, a non-volatile memory, a HDD, etc., and functions as a management unit 36, which will be described later. The ROM stores instructions and commands for executing the application and OS according to the present disclosure as a program. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the processor 31. The non-volatile memory is a memory into which data is written and read as the program is executed, and the data written therein is saved even after the execution of the program has ended. In this embodiment, the memory 32 stores a program for executing processing relating to the information shown in FIG. 5 in particular, and also stores various received information as shown in FIG. 5.

[0049] The communication unit 33 has a function of transmitting and receiving information to and from the remotely installed provider terminal device 10, user terminal device 20, or other terminal device via the communication processing circuit 33a and the antenna 33b. The communication unit 33 performs processing for transmitting and receiving information, such as programs and various information used in the information processing system 1, from the provider terminal device 10, user terminal device 20, or other terminal device according to the progress of processing. In this embodiment, in particular, service provision information is transmitted from the provider terminal device 10 to the server device 30, and access information and service usage information are transmitted from the user terminal device 20 to the server device 30. Furthermore, service provision information is transmitted from the server device 30 to the user terminal device 20, and service usage information is transmitted from the server device 30 to the provider terminal device 10.

[0050] The communication processing circuit 33a performs processing based on a wideband wireless communication system such as the LTE system, but can also perform processing based on a narrowband wireless communication system or a contactless wireless communication system such as a wireless LAN such as IEEE802.11 or Bluetooth (registered trademark). Also, wired communication can be used instead of or in addition to wireless communication.

[0051] The input unit 34 has a function of accepting input instructions for executing the program according to this embodiment, operation inputs for registering various information, etc. The input unit 34 may be configured, for example, with a mouse, hard keys, or a touch panel, and when a touch panel is used, known methods such as a resistive film method, a capacitive coupling method, or an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave method can be used.

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

[0053] (Configuration of information processing system) The configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment and specific examples of novelties used therein will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 7. Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of the information processing system according to this embodiment. Figure 6(a) is a schematic diagram showing a deodorizing sheet according to this embodiment, and Figure 6(b) is a schematic diagram showing the deodorizing sheet according to this embodiment in use. Figure 7 is a flow chart showing the processing in the information processing system according to this embodiment.

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

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

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

[0057] Note that the components of the provider terminal device 10, the user terminal device 20, and the server device 30 are not limited to those described above. In other words, the above merely describes functional components that are particularly relevant in explaining the processing of the present disclosure, and each device has other functional configurations to realize various processes and functions.

[0058] 5, the flow of information in the information processing system 1 is as follows: first, the provider terminal device 10 transmits service provision information to the server device 30. Specifically, the service provision information input to the input unit 14 of the provider terminal device 10 is transmitted to the server device 30 via the communication unit 13 (not shown). Here, an example of the service provision information is information related to the accommodation plan (room type, meal contents, accommodation fee, etc.) when the provider is an accommodation facility.

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

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

[0061] It is also possible for the generation unit 16 to be provided in an external device rather than being a component of the provider terminal device 10. As an example, the generation unit may be provided in a device owned by the printing company. In this case, access information is transmitted from the provider terminal device 10 to a device owned by the printing company, and the generation unit provided in the device owned by the printing company generates the code symbol 41 from the received access information.

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

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

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

[0065] Next, upon receiving the service usage information, the processing unit 17 of the provider terminal device 10 transmits the service usage information to the storage unit 18. By storing the service usage information in the storage unit 18, it becomes possible for the provider to read out the service usage information at any time when needed.

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

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

[0068] It is expected that the deodorizing sheet 40 will mainly be made of paper, but any material can be used as long as it can exhibit deodorizing properties. The deodorizing sheet 40 may be made of, for example, cloth, leather, synthetic leather, nylon, or rubber. The shape and size of the deodorizing sheet 40 are not particularly limited to those shown in Figures 6(a) and (b). The shape and size of the deodorizing sheet 40 may be, for example, rectangular or elliptical, or may be triangular or trapezoidal and large enough to cover the entire shoulder portion of the hanger H.

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

[0070] As described above, the novelty item 40 shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) is a deodorizing sheet that can be attached to a hanger H. In this case, because the hanger H is used daily, the acquirer of the deodorizing sheet 40 (i.e., the user) will visually inspect the deodorizing sheet 40 on a daily basis. Furthermore, because the deodorizing sheet 40 is expected to be used primarily in a closet, there is no risk of the code symbol 41 becoming dirty or faded, or being lost. Furthermore, because the deodorizing sheet 40 has a deodorizing effect, it is expected to be used by users for a long period of time. Additionally, because the deodorizing sheet 40 can be stored while attached to the hanger H, there is no need to secure a storage space for the deodorizing sheet 40 itself. Therefore, compared to other common novelties (such as pens or cups), even if there are many of them, they are not a nuisance. Furthermore, by attaching them to multiple hangers H, they are more easily visible. For these reasons, the deodorizing sheet 40 is less likely to be discarded than other common novelties and is more likely to be seen by users, making it a highly effective novelty item for advertising.

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

[0072] Furthermore, the novelty item 40 is not limited to those that can be attached to the hanger H as shown in Figures 6(a) and (b). The novelty item 40 may also be, for example, a sheet material with an odor-eliminating function that eliminates odors when inserted into shoes or a bag. Even in such a case, it is possible to achieve a high advertising effect for the same reasons as above.

[0073] 6(b), the code symbol 41 is positioned in the center of the hanger H when the deodorizing sheet 40 is attached to the hanger H. Therefore, even when clothes are hung on the hanger H, the code symbol 41 is easily exposed without being hidden by the clothes. Therefore, the user can read the code symbol 41 with the clothes still hanging on the hanger H.

[0074] Using the deodorizing sheet described above as the novelty item 40 facilitates a cycle of users "repeatly using" the provider's service, as shown in FIG. 7. First, a person who does not yet possess the novelty item 40 (a potential user) applies to the provider to use the provider's service, and the provider accepts the application (S1). Next, the provider provides the service to the user and also provides the novelty item 40 (S2). Next, the user who takes the novelty item 40 home reads the code symbol 41 attached to the novelty item 40 using the user terminal device 20 (S3) and obtains service provision information (S4). Then, service usage information is transmitted from the user terminal device 20 to the provider terminal device 10 (S5), and the provider terminal device 10 receives the service usage information and accepts the application for repeat use of the service (S1).

[0075] Typically, when a user scans a code symbol, the user searches for the novelty item 40 at home or elsewhere. However, in this embodiment, the novelty item 40 is attached to a hanger H used in a closet or other indoor location, eliminating the need to search for the novelty item 40 itself. Furthermore, as described above, even if a user acquires and uses the novelty item 40 to receive a service, the novelty item 40 itself does not become a nuisance, and its deodorizing function, design, and other features increase its useful value. Therefore, users may repeatedly use the service not only because they like the provider's service, but also because they want to collect the novelty items 40. Furthermore, these synergistic effects further increase the repeat rate. This facilitates the cycle shown in FIG. 7, further enhancing the effectiveness of advertising.

[0076] (Operation and effect of the first embodiment) In this embodiment, a novelty item 40 bearing a code symbol 41 is provided to a user, who can then apply for repeat use of the provider's service using the code symbol 41. For the user, applying for use of a service can be made relatively easily, and for the provider, this can encourage users to use the service repeatedly, leading to an increase in the repeat rate and ultimately an increase in the number of customers.

[0077] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment, when the provider terminal device 10 receives service usage information, it stores the service usage information, but in addition to this, it may acquire and store information for providing additional convenience to the service user based on the received service usage information. Also, in the first embodiment, the service provider and the distributor of the novelty items are the same person, but they may be different persons, and the provider terminal device 10 may acquire and store information for awarding a reward to the distributor of the novelty items.

[0078] The above case will be described as a second embodiment with reference to Figs. 8 to 10. Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of an information processing system according to this embodiment. Fig. 9 is a functional block diagram of the information processing system according to this embodiment. Fig. 10 is a data table stored in a provider terminal device according to this embodiment. Note that in this embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will basically be described, and descriptions of the same contents will be omitted, with the same reference numerals being used in the drawings.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, a flow in which the service provider (provider) provides additional benefits to the service user (user) and a flow in which the provider provides a reward to the novelty distributor are added.

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

[0081] "Reward" refers to an incentive or necessary expenses given by the provider to the novelty distributor. Examples of reward include money or points. Reward may also include the production costs of the novelty 40 or advertising fees paid by the provider to the novelty distributor. "Novelty distributor" refers to a person who distributes novelties to users on behalf of the provider. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the provider is a restaurant and the novelty distributor is an accommodation facility. In this case, novelties bearing a code symbol for accessing service provision information (e.g., menu items, prices, etc.) related to the provider (restaurant) are distributed by the novelty distributor (accommodation facility). Furthermore, a reward is given by the restaurant to the accommodation facility depending on the number of novelties issued, the number of applications for service use (reception of service use information), etc.

[0082] This saves the provider (restaurant) the trouble of not having to distribute the novelties in their own establishment, and if the novelty distributor (accommodation facility) is large, they can expect to achieve a higher advertising effect than if they distributed the novelties in their own establishment. On the other hand, the novelty distributor (accommodation facility) can receive incentives for distributing the novelties, and by providing the novelties (i.e., deodorizing sheets) in their own facility, they can expect to increase the loyalty of those who have received the novelties to their facility, and can also encourage those who have received the novelties to return to their facility.

[0083] The distributor of the novelty items may be a tourist association, in which case local tourist facilities and restaurants are expected to be the providers. Access information relating to service provision information (web pages for tourist information and area maps, etc.) summarizing the services of each provider is attached to the novelty items 40 as a code symbol 41, and the novelty items 40 are distributed by the tourist association. In such cases, the novelty items 40 (and by extension the information processing system) can be used to revitalize the local tourism industry.

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

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

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

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

[0088] On the other hand, as an example of reward granting information, the data table shown at the bottom of Figure 10 stores "ID," "distributor name," "distributor address," "number of copies installed," and "reward." "ID" is a unique identification number assigned to identify the distributor. "Distributor name" is the name of the distributor, and "distributor address" is the distributor's location. "Number of copies installed" is the number of novelties 40 installed by the novelty distributor. "Number of uses" is the number of times a user has used the provider's service out of the number of copies installed. "Reward" is information indicating the content of the reward given by the provider to the novelty distributor, and in Figure 10, the reward amount is stored.

[0089] In the provider terminal device 10, when service usage information is received from the user terminal device 20 via the server device 30, the processing unit 17 reads the reward granting information from the storage unit 18 and determines whether the service usage information matches the reward granting information. Specifically, the processing unit 17 references the data table related to the reward granting information in FIG. 10 and determines whether the "distributor name" and "distributor address" included in the data table match the distributor name and distributor address included in the service usage information. Note that, as a typical method for including the distributor name and distributor address in the service usage information, a method is considered in which the user inputs the name and address of the novelty distributor when entering the service usage information. However, a method may also be adopted in which the name and address of the novelty distributor are encoded in advance in the code symbol 41 so that the name and address of the novelty distributor are automatically entered when the user enters the service usage information.

[0090] If it is determined that there is a match as a result of the above determination, the processing unit 17 modifies the data table related to the reward granting information. For example, the processing unit 17 modifies the number of uses of the distributor name E from "10" to "11." Then, the processing unit 17 stores the modified data table in the storage unit 18.

[0091] The provider can check the additional convenience information via the output unit 15. This allows the number of repeat uses for each user to be confirmed. The provider can also check the reward grant information via the output unit 15. This allows the number of repeat uses for each user to be confirmed for each novelty distributor, which can be used to consider locations where the installation of novelty 40 will be most effective.

[0092] In this embodiment, both additional benefit information and reward information are present, but only the additional benefit information may be handled. Alternatively, only the reward information may be handled. In this case, even if the provider and the novelty distributor are the same person or different persons, information processing related to the granting of rewards is not performed. Furthermore, when new additional benefit or reward information is set, the new information is input from the input unit 14 and stored in the memory unit 18.

[0093] Furthermore, the same code symbol may not always be used, but may be changed at a predetermined timing. For example, the code symbol may be changed according to the season or month, and the additional benefit or reward content may be changed depending on the code symbol that is read. This can further increase users' motivation to collect novelty items 40, further increasing the effectiveness of advertising and the repeat rate. In this case, it is preferable to associate and appropriately manage the service information, additional benefit information, and reward grant information.

[0094] (Operation and effect of the second embodiment) In this embodiment, processing related to the additional convenience information and the reward information is performed in the provider terminal device 10. This allows the provider to check and analyze the additional convenience information and the reward information, which in turn further encourages users to use the service repeatedly. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1. Information Processing Systems 10 Provider terminal device (processing device for service provider) 16 Generation part 17 Processing section 18 Memory section 20 User terminal device (processing device for service users) 24 Input section 25 Output section 26 Reading unit 30 Server device 40 Novelty (Deodorizing Sheet) 41 Chord Symbols H Hanger

Claims

1. An information processing system including a service user processing device owned by a service user, a service provider processing device having information on a service provider, and a novelty item with a code symbol attached thereto, the service user processing device has a reading unit that reads the code symbol that encodes access information for accessing service provision information related to the service provider, an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit that receives service utilization information corresponding to the service provision information; The service provider processing device includes a processing unit that performs processing for allowing the service user to use a service related to the service provision information and that is directly provided to the service user by the service provider based on the service usage information, and a storage unit that stores the service usage information; The novelty is assembled and attached to a hanger; the service provision information is a website that accepts reservations for use of the service, The service usage information is information for the service user to apply to the service provider for a reservation for use of the service, An information processing system in which the processing unit transmits the service usage information to the memory unit, performs processing related to a reservation application for use of the service, and transmits a notification to the processing device for the service user that the reservation for use of the service has been accepted.

2. An information processing system including a service user processing device owned by a service user, a service provider processing device having information on a service provider, and a novelty item with a code symbol attached thereto, the service user processing device has a reading unit that reads the code symbol that encodes access information for accessing service provision information related to the service provider, an output unit that outputs the service provision information corresponding to the access information, and an input unit that receives service utilization information corresponding to the service provision information; The service provider processing device includes a processing unit that performs processing for allowing the service user to use a service related to the service provision information and that is directly provided to the service user by the service provider based on the service usage information, and a storage unit that stores the service usage information; The novelty comprises a deodorizing sheet in which a substance having a deodorizing function is attached to a flexible sheet member, the service provision information is a website that accepts reservations for use of the service, The service usage information is information for the service user to apply to the service provider for a reservation for use of the service, An information processing system in which the processing unit transmits the service usage information to the memory unit, performs processing related to a reservation application for use of the service, and transmits a notification to the processing device for the service user that the reservation for use of the service has been accepted.

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

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

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

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