Electronic money charging machine

Abstract

To provide an electronic money charger that requires less movement of the line of sight and reduces inconvenience caused by blocked hands.SOLUTION: An electronic money charger according to the present invention includes: an enclosure forming a main body; a display unit provided on the enclosure; a concave portion provided in the enclosure and recessed toward the back of a user's standing position; a mobile terminal mounting unit provided on the inner underside of the concave portion, on which a mobile terminal can be placed; an optical reader provided on the inner upper surface of the concave portion and opposite the placement unit; a control unit for controlling the display unit and optical reader. The inner lower surface has a flat surface with an angle that enables stable placement of the mobile terminal in the mobile terminal mounting unit. The concave portion is located below the display unit. The optical reader charges electronic money to a payment application displayed by the mobile terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic money charging machine for charging electronic money to a mobile terminal, a prepaid card, or the like. [Background technology]

[0002] With the recent advancement of a cashless society, non-cash payments are increasingly being used in various places. While there has been an increase in payment processing and settlement using codes on personal digital assistants, credit cards are widely used as a non-cash payment method. Credit cards have been very popular for a long time and are used in various situations as a payment processing alternative to cash and as a means of so-called installment payments.

[0003] In addition to credit cards, there is an increasing variety of payment methods, including prepaid cards issued by specific stores or store groups, prepaid cards issued by a specific issuing institution, payment apps used via mobile devices such as smartphones, and IC cards.

[0004] For consumers, the increase in non-cash payment methods has increased convenience. For example, the ability to use prepaid cards means you can shop at stores without carrying cash. The ability to pay with mobile payment apps means you can shop without cash or a wallet.

[0005] As a result, not only can you carry less luggage, but you can also shop safely. Another benefit is that you can shop easily without needing coins.

[0006] There are also additional benefits, such as earning points when shopping with a credit card or using a payment app. With IC cards and prepaid cards, there are also benefits such as being able to purchase premiums in excess of the amount charged. All of these payments are made using electronic money other than cash.

[0007] Payments using electronic money are becoming more common, and in recent years, they are being used not only for the purchase of high-value items as in the past, but also in everyday situations such as small shops and supermarkets. Also, in places where staff reductions are necessary, such as gas stations, mechanical parking lots, and hotel payment processing, electronic money payments are being processed at mechanical payment machines.

[0008] Additionally, hotels, supermarkets, shopping malls, gas stations, and chain stores may issue their own prepaid cards to attract customers, or may add value or additional functions to existing prepaid cards or IC cards to encourage customers to use them, or may issue dedicated payment apps.

[0009] By issuing such prepaid cards and payment apps, companies can encourage customers to use them by awarding premium purchase amounts or rewarding points. In addition, by giving customers a sense of value, they encourage them to repeatedly use the prepaid cards and payment apps, and to repeatedly visit their own stores. In this way, stores and other businesses can lock in customers.

[0010] In this way, payment methods using electronic money realize both convenience for consumers and market strategies for suppliers. These combined advantages have led to the use of electronic money as a payment method in a variety of situations.

[0011] To use this electronic money, you need to load cash onto a prepaid card, IC card, or mobile payment app. Once cash is loaded, the electronic money can be used on the prepaid card, IC card, or payment app.

[0012] In order to use such payment methods using electronic money, electronic money charging machines must be installed in necessary locations, such as inside stores or near cash registers in supermarkets. Of course, it is also important that they are installed in multiple locations within a shopping mall.

[0013] It is necessary to charge various payment methods such as prepaid cards, IC cards, and payment apps with electronic money. In this situation, technologies related to electronic money charging machines have been proposed.

[0014] In this situation, technology has been proposed for card readers that read payment cards such as credit cards, which are elements that make up payment machines and payment devices that use credit cards (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0015] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-054553 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-117872 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0016] Patent Document 1 is configured to include a common insertion / ejection port 61 for simultaneously inserting or ejecting an electronic money IC card 52 and banknotes 53, 54, and an IC card / banknote discrimination / overlap unit 63 that identifies differences in size between the IC card and banknote inserted into or about to be ejected from the insertion / ejection port and distinguishes them, and simultaneously ejects the banknote and IC card from the common insertion / ejection port while overlapping them. Since users always receive an IC card and banknote at the same time, the charging device discloses a device that reliably prevents users from forgetting to take banknotes (change, etc.).

[0017] As shown in Figure 1 of Patent Document 1, the IC card charging machine of Patent Document 1 has the IC card insertion mechanism, cash insertion mechanism, and display screen on the front. In other words, the user must insert the IC card and cash while looking at the front. This requires the user to hold the IC card and cash in their hands and operate the machine while looking at the display screen on the front. This is extremely inconvenient if one of their hands is occupied, such as holding a bag or umbrella.

[0018] Furthermore, when charging an IC card by touching it, it is inconvenient to have to hold the IC card (or its case) in one hand while touching it and then insert cash with another hand, which means one hand, or in some cases both hands, are occupied with the operation.

[0019] In addition, the display screen is parallel to the front, so there is a possibility that the line of sight and the hand operating the device will not line up, which may lead to operational errors. In some cases, there is also the risk of theft if the eyes move away from the cash or IC card.

[0020] Patent Document 2 discloses a cash handling system including a plurality of cash processing devices, a plurality of mobile terminals, and a management device that transmits first processing information that specifies a first cash processing device that is one of the plurality of cash processing devices and a process for the first cash processing device to at least one of the plurality of mobile terminals, and transmits the first processing information and terminal-related information that is information related to the at least one of the plurality of mobile terminals to the first cash processing device, wherein when the terminal-related information is input to the first cash processing device, the first cash processing device executes the process specified by the first processing information.

[0021] Patent Document 2 has the same problem as Patent Document 1.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3 of Patent Document 2, the device is equipped with a place where an IC card or a mobile device can be placed to charge the payment app on the mobile device. However, even if an IC card or a mobile device is placed on the device when charging, there is a reading section on the bottom. This means that the mobile device must be turned upside down to charge. This means that charging cannot be performed while checking the payment app on the mobile device, and mistakes such as the app or mobile device going into sleep mode during operation can occur. The fact that such mistakes can occur or there is a concern that they may occur, even though the operation is to deposit cash, increases users' anxiety.

[0023] There is a problem of instability in such operations.

[0024] As described above, the conventional electronic money charging machines have the following problems.

[0025] (Problem 1) It was necessary to hold either the mobile terminal, IC card, or prepaid card in one's hand while operating the device, which was inconvenient and troublesome. (Problem 2) The line of sight when looking at the display screen (which in some cases is a touch panel for operation) may differ from the line of sight when looking at the mobile device or IC card, which may pose a risk of danger. (Problem 3) The mobile payment app needs to be placed face down to charge, so it is not possible to operate the mobile device while checking the screen. This can lead to mistakes.

[0026] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic money charging machine that requires less eye movement and reduces the inconvenience of having to use one's hands. [Means for solving the problem]

[0027] In view of the above problems, the electronic money charging machine of the present invention comprises a housing forming a main body part, Built into the housing Vertical A display unit; A recess provided in the housing that is recessed toward the back of the user's standing position, a mobile terminal placement portion provided on the inner lower surface of the recess, on which a mobile terminal can be placed; Concave It is provided on the inside top surface of the part, Mobile devices an optical reading unit provided on a surface facing the placement unit; a control unit that controls the display unit and the optical reading unit, the inner lower surface has a flat surface at an angle on the mobile terminal placement portion so that the mobile terminal can be stably placed thereon; The recess is located below the display unit, The optical reader charges electronic money to the payment app displayed on the mobile device. death, a card placement section provided on the inner lower surface, capable of placing at least one of an IC card and a prepaid card; The card communication unit further comprises a card communication unit for performing communication processing with the IC card and the prepaid card placed on the card placement unit, the card communication unit charges electronic money to at least one of an IC card and a prepaid card; Mobile terminals, IC cards, and prepaid cards can be charged with electronic money while they are placed away from the user's hands. a cash insertion section on the front surface of the housing below the recess; A storage section for bills inserted from the cash insertion section is stored below the recessed section, The inner upper surface of the recess has a slope that slopes downward toward the back, and the inner upper surface of the recess is provided with a human body detection unit, When the human body detection unit detects a user, the display unit starts up and At least one of the mobile terminal placing section and the card placing section emits a frame-shaped guiding light, and if the manner or position of the mobile terminal on the mobile terminal placing section or the manner or position of the IC card on the card placing section is improper during operation, the guiding light warns of this; The display unit displays the advertisement video when the user is not operating the device. do. [Effects of the Invention]

[0028] The electronic money charging machine of the present invention has a recess in the center of the front of the main body, and an IC card or mobile terminal can be placed in the placement area of ​​this recess and operated. This minimizes the need for hands during operation (reducing the amount of hand-use tasks to inserting cash, operating the display screen, etc.), reducing inconvenience and hassle.

[0029] In addition, the display screen is tilted to match the line of sight, and the placement of the display base below it allows for operation with minimal eye movement. In particular, the display screen and display base are within a single line of sight, making operation easier and reducing the risk of theft.

[0030] The top of the platform also has a reader that reads the screen of the mobile device. This allows users to charge their mobile device's payment app while viewing the screen on the platform, enhancing safety and reliability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an electronic money charging machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which an electronic money charging machine is used in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which an electronic money charging machine is used in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a front view of an electronic money charging machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a side view of an electronic money charging machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a front view of an electronic money charging machine including an operation function in a display unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a side view of an electronic money charging machine equipped with a human body detection unit in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an electronic money charging machine that emits a guiding light in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a front view of an electronic money charging machine that functions as a digital signage in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] The electronic money charging machine according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises a housing forming a main body, a display unit provided on the housing; a recess provided in the housing and recessed toward the rear of a user's standing position; a mobile terminal placement portion provided on the inner lower surface of the recess, on which a mobile terminal can be placed; an optical reading unit provided on an inner upper surface of the convex portion and facing the placement portion; a control unit that controls the display unit and the optical reading unit, the inner lower surface has a flat surface at an angle on the mobile terminal placement portion so that the mobile terminal can be stably placed thereon, the recess is located below the display unit, The optical reader charges electronic money to a payment application displayed on the mobile terminal.

[0033] With this configuration, electronic money can be charged to the payment application on the mobile terminal while the mobile terminal is left in place, while minimizing the movement of the line of sight.

[0034] The electronic money charging machine according to a second aspect of the present invention further comprises, in addition to the features of the first aspect, a card placement section provided on the inner lower surface, on which at least one of an IC card and a prepaid card can be placed; a card communication unit that performs communication processing with the IC card and the prepaid card placed on the card placement unit; The card communication unit charges electronic money to at least one of the IC card and the prepaid card.

[0035] This configuration allows the user to charge electronic money to the IC card while keeping the IC card placed on the device, while minimizing the need to move one's line of sight.

[0036] In the electronic money charging machine according to the third invention of the present invention, in addition to the first or second invention, the mobile terminal, the IC card and the prepaid card can be placed away from the user's hands and receive electronic money charging.

[0037] This configuration allows users to charge their electronic money without having to tie up their hands, making charging electronic money easier and safer.

[0038] In addition to any one of the first to third inventions, the electronic money charging machine according to a fourth invention of the present invention is characterized in that the display unit is provided at an inclined angle with respect to a vertical plane, The display unit and the inner lower surface are within the user's line of sight.

[0039] This configuration allows the user to see the mobile terminal or IC card while looking at the display, making operation and visibility uniform, improving reliability and ease of use.

[0040] In the electronic money charging machine according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the fourth aspect, the tilt angle is an angle corresponding to the line of sight of the user.

[0041] This configuration can improve visibility for the user.

[0042] In the electronic money charging machine according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the housing and the display unit differ in either color or brightness.

[0043] This configuration makes it easier to identify electronic money charging machines.

[0044] The electronic money charging machine according to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in addition to any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprises a cash insertion section on the front surface of the housing below the recess.

[0045] This configuration allows users to charge electronic money by inserting cash while keeping the device within their field of vision or minimizing line-of-sight movement, thereby improving safety.

[0046] An eighth aspect of the present invention provides an electronic money charging machine according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the display unit includes an operation function that allows a user to perform an operation.

[0047] This configuration allows users to charge electronic money while viewing and operating the display unit, resulting in improved operability.

[0048] The electronic money charging machine according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is the electronic money charging machine according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, further comprising a human body detection unit on the inner upper surface of the recess, When the human body detection unit detects a user, the display unit is activated.

[0049] This configuration allows users to easily understand and see the electronic money charging machine while saving power.

[0050] In the electronic money charging machine according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the ninth aspect, when the human body detection unit detects a user, at least one of the mobile terminal placement unit and the card placement unit emits an guiding light.

[0051] This configuration allows users to visually and intuitively understand the work procedure and also provides assistance with placement.

[0052] An electronic money charging machine according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to tenth aspects, the inner upper surface of the recess has a slope that slopes downward toward the back.

[0053] This configuration ensures reliable reading by the optical reading unit.

[0054] In the electronic money charging machine according to the 12th invention of the present invention, in addition to any one of the first to 11th inventions, the display unit displays digital signage when no operation is being performed by the user.

[0055] This configuration also serves as an advertising function, which is beneficial for both users and stores.

[0056] The electronic money charging machine according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in addition to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the housing has a weight balance such that the area below the recess is heavier than the area above the recess.

[0057] This configuration increases the overall stability.

[0058] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0059] (Embodiment 1)

[0060] (Overview) First, an overall outline of the electronic money charging machine of the present invention will be described. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the electronic money charging machine in embodiment 1 of the present invention. The electronic money charging machine 1 shown in Fig. 1 is used by being placed on a stand or a support. Electronic money charging machines are also used in stores, restaurants, supermarkets, shopping malls, department stores, gas stations, shopping streets, etc.

[0061] It is used to charge electronic money to payment applications (payment apps) on mobile devices, IC cards (including credit cards), prepaid cards, etc. After charging, the mobile device, IC card, prepaid card, etc. are processed using electronic money in actual payments, so what is charged to these is electronic money. In reality, when charging, these mobile devices may be charged with other electronic money, or electronic money may be charged with cash. Both cash and electronic money can be used for charging, but since electronic money is what is used after being charged, it is described as an electronic money charging machine 1. It is not intended to exclude the use of cash when charging.

[0062] The electronic money charging machine 1 comprises a housing 2, a display unit 3, a recess 4, a mobile terminal mounting unit 5, an optical reading unit 6, a card mounting unit 7, a card communication unit 71, and a control unit 8. At least one of the mobile terminal mounting unit 5 and the card mounting unit 7 is provided. Only one or both may be provided. The control unit 8 is provided inside the housing 2, and is therefore conceptually shown in FIG. 1.

[0063] The housing 2 constitutes the main body, which is the external form of the electronic money charging machine 1. The housing 2 has various elements for operation on its surface, and stores various elements necessary for processing and control inside. The housing 2 stores necessary mechanisms, electronic boards, power supply circuits, a bill storage section, etc.

[0064] The housing 2 may be made of metal, alloy, resin, or a combination thereof.

[0065] The display unit 3 is provided on the surface of the housing 2. The display unit 3 is provided on the front upper part of the housing 2 so that it can be seen by the user. The display unit 3 displays the operation contents. Alternatively, the display unit 3 has a touch panel function and is used by the user for operations such as charging electronic money. Alternatively, the display unit 3 may display images or videos other than those for charging electronic money. For example, it may display store advertisements.

[0066] The display unit 3 is provided at a position corresponding to the user's line of sight. It is provided above the housing 3, above the recessed portion 4 described below. This allows the user to perform tasks in the recessed portion 4 and view the display unit 3 within the same field of vision.

[0067] The recess 4 is provided on the front surface of the housing 2. The recess 4 is recessed toward the back of the user's standing position when using the electronic money charging machine 1. The recess 4 is also provided below the display unit 3. As described above, the user can operate the display unit 3 using the recess 4 below it while looking at it.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 1, the recess 4 is recessed from the front surface of the housing 2 toward the back. The recess 4 has an inner upper surface 41 and an inner lower surface 42 on the inside. Because the recess 4 is recessed toward the back side, an upper surface and a lower surface are formed on the inside. These are the inner upper surface 41 and the inner lower surface 42, respectively.

[0069] The electronic money charging machine 1 of the present invention utilizes the recess 4, the inner upper surface 41, and the inner lower surface 42 to solve the problems of the prior art.

[0070] The mobile terminal placing section 5 is provided on the inner lower surface 42. A mobile terminal can be placed on the mobile terminal placing section 5. The mobile terminal is a terminal equipped with a payment app that allows payments, such as a mobile phone, smartphone, or tablet terminal. The mobile terminal placing section 5 allows the mobile terminal to be placed stably. In other words, after placing the mobile terminal on the mobile terminal placing section 5, the user can charge electronic money to the payment app on the mobile terminal without having to grip or hold the mobile terminal.

[0071] This is because the mobile terminal placing section 5 is provided on the inner lower surface 42, which is a flat surface facing the depth of the housing 3 formed in the recess 4. This allows the mobile terminal to be placed stably. This is because the inner lower surface 42 is a flat surface on the mobile terminal placing section 5 that has an angle that allows the mobile terminal to be placed stably.

[0072] The optical reading unit 6 is provided on the inner upper surface 41, which is the surface facing the mobile terminal placing portion 5. As shown in FIG. 1 , inside the recess 4, the mobile terminal placing portion 5 on the inner lower surface 42 and the optical reading unit 6 on the inner upper surface 41 face each other.

[0073] In this facing state, the mobile terminal placed on the mobile terminal placement unit 5 is optically processed by the optical reading unit 6. This optical processing executes charging of electronic money to the payment app displayed on the mobile terminal.

[0074] The mobile terminal placing section 5 and the optical reading section 6 are positioned opposite each other. As a result, the mobile terminal is placed on the mobile terminal placing section 5 with the display screen facing upward. The display screen displays a payment app that is read by the optical reading section 6. Because the optical reading section 6 is positioned opposite this display screen, it can read and process the data as is and charge electronic money.

[0075] The control unit 8 controls the display unit 3 and the optical reading unit 6. It also controls the processes related to charging electronic money by the optical reading unit 6. This control completes the charging of electronic money to the payment app on the mobile terminal.

[0076] The mobile terminal placing unit 5 and the optical reading unit 6 are positioned facing each other inside the recess 4, so that the electronic money charging operation can be performed with the display screen of the mobile terminal displaying the payment app facing upward. The user can perform the electronic money charging operation while checking that the payment app is correctly displayed on the display screen of the mobile terminal. For example, even when looking at or operating the display unit 3 to perform the operation, the user can perform the operation while checking the display screen of the mobile terminal.

[0077] This also reduces concerns about failing to charge electronic money.

[0078] In the prior art, users had to charge electronic money while holding the mobile terminal, or they had to hold the mobile terminal facing downwards (with the display screen facing downwards). The former was inconvenient for users.

[0079] In the latter case, you cannot operate the mobile device while looking at the display screen. Therefore, you cannot check whether the payment app is displayed correctly. If a different app is displayed or the display screen goes into sleep mode, you may not be able to charge electronic money.

[0080] The electronic money charging machine 1 of the present invention can solve such problems of the prior art.

[0081] (Card placement section) The card placement section 7 is provided on the inner lower surface 42. Like the mobile terminal placement section 5, it is provided inside the recess 4. By being provided on the inner lower surface 42, an IC card or prepaid card can be stably placed. The card placement section 7 can hold at least one of an IC card such as a credit card or a transportation card and a prepaid card (hereinafter collectively referred to as an IC card). In other words, it can hold a card that has a payment function or a function for charging electronic money.

[0082] The user places the IC card they wish to charge electronic money on card placement section 7. Since card placement section 7 is provided on inner bottom surface 42, the IC card can be placed stably. Also, after placing the card, the user does not need to hold it in their hand.

[0083] The device is further provided with a card communication unit 71 that communicates with an IC card or prepaid card placed on the card placement unit 7. The card communication unit 71 communicates with the placed IC card or prepaid card to charge electronic money.

[0084] It is also preferable that the card communication unit 71 is provided inside the bottom of the card placement unit 7. The card communication unit 71 is required to communicate by radio wave with the IC of the IC card placed on the card placement unit 7. The card communication unit 71 is provided with an antenna and signal processing function for communicating with the IC card placement unit 7 while supplying power to the IC. As a result, the card communication unit 71 communicates with the IC card and executes the processing required for charging electronic money.

[0085] At this time, the user operates the device by following the operating procedures displayed on the display unit 3 or the like. If the display unit 3 is a touch panel type, the user can operate it by operating this. Alternatively, the user can operate it via other operating buttons or the like. This is the same whether a mobile terminal is placed on the mobile terminal placement unit 5 or an IC card is placed on the card placement unit 7. This allows the user to operate the device without having to use their hands.

[0086] Furthermore, when inserting cash to charge electronic money, there is no need to hold a mobile device or IC card in your hand, making the process easier. Also, if you are holding cash, both hands are free, which increases safety.

[0087] The IC card can be operated while placed on the card placement section 7, and the payment application for the mobile terminal can be operated while placed on the mobile terminal placement section 5, i.e., electronic money can be charged while the card is away from the user's hands.

[0088] (How to use) The use of the electronic money charging machine of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views showing the electronic money charging machine in use in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figures 2 and 3 show the state as seen from the right and left sides diagonally behind.

[0089] 2 shows a state in which the user 100 charges electronic money to the IC card 70, and FIG. 3 shows a state in which the user 100 charges electronic money to the mobile terminal 50. As shown in FIG.

[0090] (Charging IC cards)

[0091] In Fig. 2, user 100 is attempting to charge electronic money onto an IC card. Electronic money charging machine 1 is placed on support 11. Being placed on support 11 in this manner makes it suitable for the average height of user 100. In other words, when user 100 of average height simply tilts his / her head slightly forward as shown in Fig. 2, display unit 3 and card placement unit 7 (inner lower surface 42 of recess 4) come into view. In particular, by setting the inclination angle of display unit 3 at an angle corresponding to the line of sight of user 100, both display unit 3 and inner lower surface 42 come into the same field of view.

[0092] In this way, it is preferable that the display unit 3 is provided at an inclination angle relative to the vertical plane, and that the inclination angle corresponds to the line of sight of the user. This is because the display unit 3 and the inner lower surface 42 are thereby included in the line of sight of the user 100. In particular, the display unit 3 and the inner lower surface 42 are included in the same field of vision of the user 100.

[0093] The user 100 places the IC card 70 on the card placement unit 7. The IC card 70 may be a credit card that can be charged with electronic money, a transportation card, a prepaid card, etc. Since the IC card 70 is placed on the card placement unit 7, the user 100 does not need to hold the IC card 70 and has free hands.

[0094] In some cases, the display unit 3 is a touch panel type, and electronic money is charged by operating the display unit 3. In other cases, the user 100 presses another operation button, and the operation method or procedure is displayed on the display unit 3. In FIG. 2, the user 100 operates or checks the display unit 3 depending on these cases.

[0095] During these operations and confirmations, IC card 70 remains placed on card placement unit 7, so user 100 does not have to use his or her hands to hold it. In this way, user 100 operates to charge electronic money with his or her free hand, while IC card 70 remains placed on card placement unit 7. Based on this operation, card communication unit 71 charges electronic money to IC card 70 under the control of control unit 8.

[0096] At this time, the user 100 inserts cash into the cash insertion unit 9 as needed. This is to charge electronic money using cash. Even when inserting cash into the cash insertion unit 9, the operation is easy because the user's hands are not blocked by the IC card 70. This ease of operation also increases safety when inserting cash.

[0097] In this manner, the user 100 can complete charging the IC card 70 with electronic money while the IC card 70 is placed on the card placement unit 7.

[0098] (Charging a mobile payment app) FIG. 3 shows a state in which user 100 is charging electronic money to a payment app on mobile terminal 50. Mobile terminal 50 is a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, etc. The payment app is an application with a payment function using a two-dimensional barcode, etc. The payment app is displayed on the display screen of mobile terminal 50.

[0099] The mobile terminal 50 is placed on the mobile terminal placement section 5. The mobile terminal placement section 5 is provided on the inner lower surface 42, and allows the mobile terminal 50 to be placed stably. As shown in FIG. 3, the mobile terminal 50 is placed on the mobile terminal placement section 5. In other words, the user 100 does not need to be holding the mobile terminal 50. Their hands are not occupied.

[0100] The optical reading unit 6 is provided on the inner upper surface 41 facing the mobile terminal placement unit 5. Therefore, the optical reading unit 6 reads the display screens 55 of the mobile terminals 50 from top to bottom.

[0101] 3, the mobile terminal 50 is placed on the mobile terminal holder 5 with the display screen 55 facing upward. In this state, the optical reading unit 6 can read and communicate with the payment app displayed on the display screen 55, and charge electronic money to the payment app.

[0102] Since the mobile terminal 50 is placed with the display screen 55 facing up, the user 100 can operate it while checking (visually checking) it from above. This prevents mistakes and errors caused by problems such as the display screen 55 being in sleep mode or the payment app not being started. In conventional technology, these could not be visually checked when the mobile terminal 50 was placed facing down. This can be solved.

[0103] Furthermore, the user 100 can leave the mobile terminal 50 on the mobile terminal placement unit 5, leaving the user's 100's hands free. Therefore, when operating the mobile terminal 50 while looking at the display unit 3, the user does not need to hold the mobile terminal 50. Furthermore, the display screen 55 of the mobile terminal 50 is located below the display unit 3, and is therefore included in the range of the user's visual field for viewing the display unit 3. The user 100 can operate the mobile terminal 50 while looking at the display screen 55 and viewing the display unit 3.

[0104] This improves operability and safety. Also, both the display unit 3 and the mobile terminal 50 (IC card 70) can easily be placed within the same field of view of the user 100. This makes it easier for the user 100 to check and operate within one field of view. Of course, cash can also be inserted from the cash insertion unit 9 within the same or nearly the same field of view. This not only makes the operation easier, but also increases safety and security.

[0105] The cash insertion section 9 is provided on the front surface of the housing 2, below the recessed section 4. With this structure, the cash insertion section 9 comes into the field of view of the user 100 when the user looks slightly downward at the inclined display section 3. At this time, the mobile terminal 50 (mobile terminal placement section 5) and IC card 70 (card placement section 7) in the recessed section 4 also come into the field of view.

[0106] This allows for safe and easy charging procedures, including inserting cash.

[0107] Furthermore, since the cash insertion unit 9 is located below the mobile terminal placement unit 5, etc., the user 100 can intuitively insert cash.

[0108] Furthermore, this leads to easier operation and a reduction in the time required for the operation, which in turn leads to increased efficiency in charging electronic money for multiple users.

[0109] By using the electronic money charging machine 1 in the above-described manner, the user 100 can operate it easily and reliably to charge the electronic money. The electronic money charging machine 1 also provides a sense of security and is safe.

[0110] (Embodiment 2)

[0111] Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment. In the second embodiment, various variations will be described.

[0112] (Difference between display and housing) 4 is a front view of the electronic money charging machine in the second embodiment of the present invention, showing the electronic money charging machine 1 as seen from the front.

[0113] Here, it is also preferable that the housing 2 and the display unit 3 have different colors or brightnesses. By having either of these different colors or brightnesses, the contrast between the housing 2 and the display unit 3 is increased. This makes it easier for the user 100 to view the display unit 3.

[0114] In particular, the display unit 3 is often in a sleep state when not being operated by the user 100. When this happens, it can be difficult to see the display unit 3, especially from a distance. It is important that the user 100 can reliably see the presence of the electronic money charging machine 1.

[0115] If the display unit 3 and the housing 2 differ in either color or brightness, and there is contrast, the user 100 can easily view the display unit 3. As a result, the electronic money charging machine 1 can be easily viewed.

[0116] For example, if the housing 2 is whitish in color and the display unit 3 is gray, a contrast in color (contrast in chromaticity) occurs, making it easier to see. The user 100 can easily see the electronic money charging machine 1 even from a distance.

[0117] This is a convenient situation for the user 100. Stores and the like can obtain benefits such as improved convenience for customers.

[0118] (Display tilt angle)

[0119] 5 is a side view of the electronic money charging machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, as seen from one side, illustrating the user's line of sight.

[0120] As shown in Figure 5, the display unit 3 has an inclination angle. The inclination is upward. In addition, a recess 4 is provided below the display unit 3, and a mobile terminal mounting section 5 and an IC card mounting section 7 are provided on the inner lower surface 42 of this recess 4. Further below that, a cash insertion section 9 is provided.

[0121] Due to these positional relationships, the user's 100 line of sight includes the display unit 3, mobile terminal placement unit 5, IC card placement unit 7, and cash insertion unit 9 in close proximity, as shown in Figure 5. In other words, these are included in almost the same field of view. Even if they are not in the same field of view, a slight change in line of sight can bring them into the field of view.

[0122] This makes the operation easier for the user 100 and also improves safety.

[0123] (Display operation)

[0124] FIG. 6 is a front view of an electronic money charging machine including an operation function in a display unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] The display unit 3 preferably includes an operation function 31 as shown in FIG. 6. The display unit screen can be operated using a touch panel or the like. This allows the user 100 to perform operations visually and intuitively through the display unit 3. By operating the operation function 31, the required amount of electronic money can be charged to the target IC card 70 or the like.

[0126] You can also check your electronic money balance and perform other necessary operations.

[0127] The inclusion of the operation function 31 in the display unit 3 makes it easier for the user 100 to operate it.

[0128] (Human body detection section)

[0129] FIG. 7 is a side view of an electronic money charging machine equipped with a human body detection unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] A human body detection unit 45 for detecting a human body is provided on the inner upper surface 41 of the recess 4. The human body detection unit 45 has elements such as a human sensor, a temperature sensor, and a motion sensor, and can detect the presence or proximity of a human body.

[0131] 7, a user 100 approaches the electronic money charging machine 1 from the front, side, diagonal, etc. When the human body detection unit 45 detects the user 100, it notifies the display unit 3 of the detection. At this time, it may also notify the control unit 8.

[0132] The display unit 3 receives the detection result and starts up based on it. The display unit 3, which was in sleep mode, starts up by displaying the display screen, etc. The display unit 3 may also be started up by control via the control unit 8.

[0133] Based on this detection, the display unit 3 starts up, which leads to power saving. Of course, it is also convenient for the user, because the display unit 3 starts up the moment you approach and a screen prompting you to operate the device is displayed, making it easier for you to start operating the device.

[0134] Furthermore, when the display unit 3 is started up, it is preferable to start providing guidance with images and text that the device has an electronic money charging function. At this time, it is also preferable to provide guidance with audio as well. That is, audio guidance is also generated at the time of start-up.

[0135] It is also preferable that an initial screen for the operation of charging electronic money is displayed so that the user 100 can immediately start the operation. At this time, an initial screen may be displayed that allows the user 100 to select whether to charge the IC card 70 or the mobile terminal 50.

[0136] (guiding light) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electronic money charging machine that emits guiding light in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] 8 shows that the mobile terminal placing section 5 and the card placing section 7 are equipped with a function to emit guiding light 46. The guiding light 46 is a function provided in at least one of the mobile terminal placing section 5 and the card placing section 7. It may be provided in either one or both.

[0138] The guiding light 46 can visually notify the user 100 that the mobile terminal 50 or the IC card 70 is located at that location. In particular, by having a frame shape as shown in Fig. 8, it can also notify the user that the mobile terminal 50 or the IC card 70 should be placed in line with the frame of the guiding light 46.

[0139] Such guiding light 46 allows the user 100 to easily and reliably place the mobile terminal 50 on the mobile terminal placement section 5 or the IC card 70 on the card placement section 7.

[0140] Here, the human body detection unit 45 may detect a user and then emit the guiding light 46. This is because it is possible to further increase the awareness of the user 100 while saving power.

[0141] The guiding light 46 may also be in a form that repeatedly flashes, thereby increasing the visibility of the user 100. Of course, this also makes it easier for the user 100 to notice the guiding light 46.

[0142] Furthermore, if the manner or position of placing the mobile terminal 50 on the mobile terminal placement section 5 or the manner or position of placing the IC card 70 on the card placement section 7 is improper during operation, the guiding light 46 may warn of this. Alternatively, the guiding light 46 may alert the user 100 to this.

[0143] 7, the inner upper surface 41 of the recess 4 may have a slope that slopes downward toward the back. Such a slope makes it easier for the optical reader 6 to read the display screen of the mobile terminal 50. It also improves the detection accuracy of the human body detector 45.

[0144] (Digital signage) FIG. 9 is a front view of an electronic money charging machine that functions as a digital signage in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] The display unit 3 may display digital signage 33 when not being operated by the user 100. FIG. 9 shows this state. The digital signage 33 may be store advertisements or other advertising images or videos. By displaying advertisements, the electronic money charging machine 1 can be used more effectively.

[0146] It is also advisable to separate the time period during which the digital signage 33 is displayed from the time period during which the digital signage 33 is in sleep mode, in order to strike a balance between saving power and advertising effectiveness.

[0147] Of course, it is also preferable that the digital signage 33 provides audio guidance along with video etc. Also, it is also preferable that the digital signage 33 stops when the human body detection unit 45 detects the user 100.

[0148] (weight balance of the housing) It is also preferable that the housing 2 has a weight balance in which the area below the recess 4 is heavier than the area above the recess 4. In other words, the area below the recess 4 is heavier.

[0149] Such a weight balance increases the overall stability of the machine, which can be achieved, for example, by storing a bill storage section internally at the bottom, or by concentrating electronic boards and mechanisms.

[0150] As described above, the electronic money charging machine 1 in the second embodiment can improve convenience for the user 100 and increase merits for the store or the like where it is installed.

[0151] The electronic money charging machines described in the first and second embodiments are merely examples, and do not exclude any scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 1. Electronic money charging machine 2. Case 3 Display section 31 Operation functions 33 Digital Signage 4 recess 41 Internal top surface 42 Internal lower surface 45 Human body detection unit 46 Guiding light 5 Mobile terminal placement section 50 Mobile Devices 6 Optical reading unit 7 Card placement section 71 Card Communication Department 70 IC cards 8 Control Unit 9 Cash Insertion Section 100 users

Claims

1. An electronic money charging machine, a housing forming a main body; a vertically long display unit provided on the housing; a recess provided in the housing and recessed toward the rear of a user's standing position; a mobile terminal placement portion provided on the inner lower surface of the recess, on which a mobile terminal can be placed; an optical reading unit provided on an inner upper surface of the recess and facing the mobile terminal placement unit; a control unit that controls the display unit and the optical reading unit, the inner lower surface has a flat surface at an angle on the mobile terminal placement portion so that the mobile terminal can be stably placed thereon, the recess is located below the display unit, the optical reading unit charges electronic money to a payment app displayed on the mobile terminal; a card placement section provided on the inner lower surface, on which at least one of an IC card and a prepaid card can be placed; a card communication unit that performs communication processing with the IC card and the prepaid card placed on the card placement unit, the card communication unit charges electronic money to at least one of the IC card and the prepaid card; The mobile terminal, the IC card, and the prepaid card can be charged with electronic money while being placed away from the user's hands, a cash insertion section on the front surface of the housing below the recess, A storage section for storing bills inserted from the cash insertion section is internally stored below the recessed section, The inner upper surface of the recess has a slope that slopes downward toward the back, and a human body detection unit is provided on the inner upper surface of the recess, When the human body detection unit detects a user, the display unit is activated, At least one of the mobile terminal placing section and the card placing section emits a frame-shaped guiding light, and if the manner or position of the mobile terminal on the mobile terminal placing section or the manner or position of the IC card on the card placing section is improper during operation, the guiding light warns of this; The display unit displays an advertisement video when no operation is performed by the user.

2. 2. The electronic money charging machine according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is provided at an angle inclined relative to a vertical plane.

3. 3. The electronic money charging machine according to claim 1, wherein the housing and the display unit are different in either color or brightness.

4. 4. The electronic money charging machine according to claim 1, wherein the display unit includes an operation function that is operated by a user.

Images