Terminal-side content distribution program, terminal-side storage medium, terminal-side content distribution method, terminal-side content distribution device, server-side content distribution program, server-side storage medium, server-side content distribution method, and server-side content distribution device

Abstract

To perform processing relating to highly effective content distribution.SOLUTION: A terminal-side content distribution program causes a computer of a terminal device 30 to execute content identification information acquisition processing for acquiring content identification information related to content information of a specific shop from a server together with a distribution condition relating to at least one of a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information, content identification information distribution processing for distributing the content identification information by means of broadcast in the case where a location of an own machine and a time satisfy the distribution condition, and content acquisition processing, in the case where content identification information distributed by the other machine is acquired, for sending the acquired content identification information to a server and acquiring content information related to the content identification information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a terminal-side content distribution program, a terminal-side storage medium, a terminal-side content distribution method, and a terminal-side content distribution device, and also to a server-side content distribution program, a server-side storage medium, a server-side content distribution method, and a server-side content distribution device, related to content distribution. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a technique for acquiring content information of a store or the like distributed for advertising purposes on a terminal device such as a smartphone by transmitting and receiving the information to and from a content server (see, for example, Patent Document 1). With this technique, when a distribution request is issued from the terminal device, the content server selects appropriate content information and distributes it to the terminal device. A user visits a store that they like by referring to the content information distributed from the content server to the terminal device in this way. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-009441 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the above-mentioned technology, appropriate content information is distributed only when the content server is accessible, and there is room for improvement in terms of the effectiveness of content distribution.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide, for example, a terminal-side content distribution program, a terminal-side storage medium, a terminal-side content distribution method, and a terminal-side content distribution device for highly effective content distribution, etc. Another object of the present invention is to provide, for example, a server-side content distribution program, a server-side storage medium, a server-side content distribution method, and a server-side content distribution device for such content distribution, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the terminal-side content distribution program of the present invention causes a computer to execute the following content identification information acquisition process: a content identification information acquisition process for acquiring content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server together with distribution conditions related to both the distribution area and distribution time of the content identification information; a content identification information distribution process for broadcasting the content identification information if the location and time of the own device satisfy the distribution conditions; and a content acquisition process for, when content identification information distributed by another device is acquired, sending the acquired content identification information to the server together with location / time information indicating both the location and time at which the content identification information was acquired, and acquiring content information associated with the content identification information, wherein the server updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the usage status of the specific store using the content information, and the content identification information distribution process is a process for distributing the content identification information based on the distribution conditions updated in the server.

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, a storage medium on the terminal side of the present invention is characterized in that it stores the above-mentioned terminal side content distribution program.

[0008] Furthermore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the terminal-side content distribution method of the present invention comprises: a content identification information acquisition step of acquiring, from a server, content identification information associated with content information of a specific store, together with distribution conditions related to both the distribution area and distribution time of the content identification information; a content identification information distribution step of broadcasting the content identification information if the location and time of the terminal satisfy the distribution conditions; and a content acquisition step of, when content identification information distributed by another terminal has been acquired, sending the acquired content identification information to the server together with location / time information indicating both the location and time at which the content identification information was acquired, and acquiring content information associated with the content identification information, wherein the server updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the usage status of the specific store using the content information, and the content identification information distribution step is a step of distributing the content identification information based on the distribution conditions updated in the server.

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the terminal-side content distribution device of the present invention comprises: a content identification information acquisition unit that acquires content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server, together with distribution conditions related to both the distribution area and distribution time of the content identification information; a content identification information distribution unit that broadcasts the content identification information to other devices when the location and time of the terminal satisfy the distribution conditions; and a content acquisition unit that, when acquiring content identification information distributed by the other devices, sends the content identification information to the server together with location / time information indicating both the location and time at which the content identification information was acquired, and acquires the content information associated with the content identification information, wherein the server updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the usage status of the specific store using the content information, and the content identification information distribution unit is a part that distributes the content identification information based on the distribution conditions updated in the server.

[0010] In addition, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the server-side content distribution program of the present invention causes a computer to execute a condition setting process for setting distribution conditions regarding both a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store; a content identification information sending process for sending the content identification information to a first terminal device together with the distribution conditions; a content sending process for sending the content information associated with the content identification information to a second terminal device when the content identification information is acquired from the second terminal device; a location / time acquisition process for acquiring from the second terminal device location / time information indicating both the location and the time at which the second terminal device acquired the content identification information; and a store visit information acquisition process for acquiring store visit information indicating the visit of a user of the second terminal device from a store terminal device of the specific store, wherein the condition setting process is a process for updating the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information.

[0011] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, a server-side storage medium according to the present invention is characterized in that it stores the above-mentioned server-side content distribution program.

[0012] In addition, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the server-side content distribution method of the present invention comprises a condition setting step of setting distribution conditions regarding both a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store; a content identification information sending step of sending the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device; a content sending step of, upon acquiring the content identification information from a second terminal device, sending content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device; a location / time acquisition step of acquiring from the second terminal device location / time information indicating both the location and the time at which the second terminal device acquired the content identification information; and a store visit information acquisition step of acquiring store visit information indicating a visit of a user of the second terminal device from a store terminal device of the specific store, wherein the condition setting step is a step of updating the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information.

[0013] In addition, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the server-side content distribution device of the present invention comprises: a condition setting unit that sets distribution conditions regarding both the distribution area and distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store; a content identification information sending unit that sends the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device; a content sending unit that, upon acquiring the content identification information from a second terminal device, sends content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device; a location / time acquisition unit that acquires from the second terminal device location / time information indicating both the location and time at which the second terminal device acquired the content identification information; and a store visit information acquisition unit that acquires store visit information indicating the visit of a user of the second terminal device from a store terminal device of the specific store, wherein the condition setting unit is a part that updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information. In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the content distribution system of the present invention comprises: a server-side content distribution device provided in a server, which transmits content identification information associated with content information of a specific store together with distribution conditions related to both a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information; and a terminal-side content distribution device provided in each of a plurality of terminal devices, which acquires the content identification information transmitted from the server-side content distribution device together with the distribution conditions and broadcasts the content identification information to other devices based on the distribution conditions, wherein the server-side content distribution device has a condition setting unit which sets the distribution conditions, a content identification information sending unit which sends the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device of the plurality of terminal devices, a content sending unit which, upon receiving the content identification information from a second terminal device of the plurality of terminal devices, transmits the content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device, and a content sending unit which, upon receiving the content identification information from the second terminal device, transmits the content information to the second terminal device. and a store visit information acquisition unit that acquires store visit information indicating a visit of the user of the second terminal device from the store terminal device of the specific store, wherein the terminal-side content distribution device of each of the plurality of terminal devices comprises: a content identification information acquisition unit that acquires the content identification information together with the distribution conditions from the server, with the terminal device as the first terminal device; a content identification information distribution unit that distributes the content identification information to other devices by broadcast when the location and time of the terminal device satisfy the distribution conditions; and a content acquisition unit that, when acquiring content identification information distributed by the other devices, sends the acquired content identification information to the server, with the terminal device as the second terminal device, attached with the location / time information, and acquires the content information associated with the content identification information, wherein the condition setting unit of the server-side content distribution device is a unit that updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information, and the content identification information distribution unit of the terminal-side content distribution deviceThe content identification information is distributed based on the distribution conditions updated by the condition setting unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an information distribution system for distributing store content information. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of an apparatus constructed by a computer in the server shown in FIG. 1 executing a program. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a primary content ID and a secondary content ID. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of user information. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of store usage history information. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of store information. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of additional information. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing various types of information used to update distribution conditions. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing how distribution conditions are updated based on the various information shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 2 is a schematic block diagram showing functional blocks of a device constructed by a computer in the store terminal device shown in FIG. 1 executing a program. FIG. [Figure 11] 2 is a schematic block diagram showing functional blocks of a device constructed by a computer in the terminal device shown in FIG. 1 executing a program. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing information distribution processing from start to midway. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the information distribution process, continuing from FIG. 12 and continuing to the middle of the flowchart. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the information distribution process, continuing from FIG. 13 and continuing to the middle of the flowchart. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the flow chart illustrating the information distribution process, continuing from FIG. 14 and continuing to the middle of the flow chart. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the information distribution process from the continuation of FIG. 15 to the end. [Figure 17] 2 is a diagram showing a flowchart illustrating processing related to the start of grouping among a plurality of terminal devices in the information distribution system shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a flowchart illustrating grouping from the start to the middle. [Figure 19] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the flow chart illustrating grouping from the continuation of FIG. 18 to the end. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing a group confirmation / exclusion process executed after grouping. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing a grouping signal distribution process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below. A terminal-side content distribution program according to an embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to execute a content identification information acquisition process, a content identification information distribution process, and a content acquisition process. The content identification information acquisition process is a process of acquiring content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server along with distribution conditions related to at least one of a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information. The content identification information distribution process is a process of broadcasting content identification information when the location and time of the device itself satisfy the distribution conditions. The content acquisition process is a process of, when content identification information distributed by another device is acquired, sending the acquired content identification information to a server and acquiring content information associated with the content identification information.

[0016] According to the content distribution program of this embodiment, content identification information associated with content information can be distributed via a terminal device carried by a user who moves around freely. Furthermore, the content identification information is distributed appropriately based on the location and time of the device using distribution conditions previously acquired from the server, allowing for highly effective content distribution on the terminal side. Furthermore, by acquiring content information via such content identification information distributed from another device, highly effective content distribution can be received. Thus, the content distribution program of this embodiment is a program related to highly effective content distribution.

[0017] Here, in this embodiment, the content acquisition process is a process in which, when sending content identification information to the server, location / time information indicating at least one of the location and time at which the content identification information was acquired is attached and sent to the server.

[0018] This configuration is advantageous because it allows the server side to perform an effectiveness evaluation, such as determining at what location and time the content information based on the content identification information acquired on the terminal side was effectively utilized.

[0019] In this embodiment, the server updates the distribution conditions based on the usage status of a specific store using the location / time information and content information. The content identification information distribution process is a process in which the server distributes content identification information based on the updated distribution conditions.

[0020] This configuration is preferable because it allows the terminal side to distribute content identification information based on highly accurate distribution conditions regarding validity.

[0021] Moreover, the terminal-side storage medium according to the embodiment of the present invention stores the above-mentioned terminal-side content distribution program.

[0022] According to the storage medium of this embodiment, by reading out the above-mentioned terminal-side content distribution program and running it on a computer, it is possible to distribute highly effective content on the terminal side. It is also possible to receive highly effective content distribution on the terminal side. In this way, the storage medium of this embodiment is a storage medium related to highly effective content distribution.

[0023] Furthermore, a terminal-side content distribution method according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a content identification information acquisition step, a content identification information distribution step, and a content acquisition step. The content identification information acquisition step is a step of acquiring content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server together with distribution conditions related to at least one of a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information. The content identification information distribution step is a step of broadcasting the content identification information when the location and time of the device itself satisfy the distribution conditions. The content acquisition step is a step of, when content identification information distributed by another device is acquired, sending the acquired content identification information to the server and acquiring content information associated with the content identification information.

[0024] According to the terminal-side content distribution method of this embodiment, content identification information associated with content information can be distributed via a terminal device carried by a user who moves around freely. Furthermore, since the content identification information is distributed appropriately based on the location and time of the device using distribution conditions, highly effective content distribution can be performed on the terminal side. Furthermore, by acquiring content information via such content identification information distributed from another device, highly effective content distribution can be received. Thus, the terminal-side content distribution method of this embodiment is a method for highly effective content distribution.

[0025] Furthermore, a terminal-side content distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a content identification information acquisition unit, a content identification information distribution unit, and a content acquisition unit. The content identification information acquisition unit acquires content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server, along with distribution conditions related to at least one of a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information. The content identification information distribution unit broadcasts the content identification information to other devices when the location and time of the device satisfy the distribution conditions. When the content acquisition unit acquires content identification information distributed by the other device, it sends the content identification information to the server and acquires content information associated with the content identification information.

[0026] According to the terminal-side content distribution device of this embodiment, content identification information associated with content information can be distributed via a terminal device carried by a user who moves around freely. Furthermore, since the content identification information is distributed appropriately based on the location and time of the terminal device using distribution conditions, highly effective content distribution can be performed on the terminal side. Furthermore, by acquiring content information via such content identification information distributed from another device, highly effective content distribution can be received. In this way, the terminal-side content distribution device of this embodiment is a device related to highly effective content distribution.

[0027] Furthermore, a server-side content distribution program according to an embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to execute a condition setting process, a content identification information sending process, and a content sending process. The condition setting process is a process for setting a distribution condition regarding at least one of a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store. The content identification information sending process is a process for sending content identification information together with the distribution condition to a first terminal device. The content sending process is a process for receiving content identification information from a second terminal device and sending content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device.

[0028] According to the server-side content distribution program of this embodiment, content identification information associated with content information can be distributed via a first terminal device carried by a user who moves around freely. Then, distribution conditions for appropriate distribution are set in the first terminal device, which is the distribution source, and sent to the first terminal device. As a result, the first terminal device appropriately distributes the content identification information based on the distribution conditions, and the second terminal device acquires the content information via such content identification information, enabling highly effective content distribution. In this way, the server-side content distribution program of this embodiment is a program related to highly effective content distribution.

[0029] Here, the server-side content distribution program of this embodiment further causes the computer to execute a location / time acquisition process and a store visit information acquisition process. The location / time acquisition process is a process of acquiring, from a second terminal device, location / time information indicating at least one of the location and time at which the second terminal device acquired content identification information. The store visit information acquisition process is a process of acquiring, from a store terminal device of a specific store, store visit information indicating the visit of the user of the second terminal device. In this embodiment, the condition setting process is a process of updating the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information.

[0030] With this configuration, when a user of the second terminal device visits the store and makes effective use of the content information, the location and time at which the content identification information was acquired are reflected in the distribution conditions at any time, thereby enabling even more effective content distribution.

[0031] A server-side storage medium according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that it stores the above-mentioned server-side content distribution program.

[0032] According to the storage medium of this embodiment, by reading out the above-mentioned server-side content distribution program and running it on a computer, highly effective content distribution can be performed on the server side. In this way, the storage medium of this embodiment is a storage medium related to highly effective content distribution.

[0033] Furthermore, a server-side content distribution method according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a condition setting step and a content sending step. The condition setting step is a step of setting distribution conditions related to at least one of a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store. The content sending step is a step of, upon acquiring the content identification information from a second terminal device, sending the content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device.

[0034] According to the server-side content distribution method of this embodiment, content identification information associated with content information can be distributed via a first terminal device carried by a user who moves around freely. Then, distribution conditions for appropriate distribution are set in the first terminal device, which is the source of distribution, and sent to the first terminal device. As a result, the first terminal device appropriately distributes the content identification information based on the distribution conditions, and the second terminal device acquires the content information via such content identification information, thereby enabling highly effective content distribution. In this way, the server-side content distribution method of this embodiment is a method for highly effective content distribution.

[0035] Furthermore, a server-side content distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a condition setting unit, a content identification information sending unit, and a content sending unit. The condition setting unit sets distribution conditions related to a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store. The content identification information sending unit sends the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device. When the content sending unit acquires content identification information from a second terminal device, it sends the content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device.

[0036] According to the server-side content distribution device of this embodiment, content identification information associated with content information can be distributed via a first terminal device carried by a user who moves around freely. Then, distribution conditions for appropriate distribution are set in the first terminal device, which is the distribution source, and sent to the first terminal device. As a result, the first terminal device appropriately distributes the content identification information based on the distribution conditions, and the second terminal device acquires the content information via such content identification information, thereby enabling highly effective content distribution. In this way, the server-side content distribution device of this embodiment is a device related to highly effective content distribution. [Example]

[0037] Hereinafter, an embodiment for solving the problem of performing processing related to highly effective content distribution will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an information distribution system for distributing store content information.

[0039] The information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1 includes a server 10, a store terminal device 20 installed in each of multiple stores SH, multiple terminal devices 30 each carried by a user, and a wireless / wired communication network 40 connecting these devices.

[0040] In the following description, when focusing on one store SH, the multiple stores SH will be referred to as a specific store SH1, and when referring to stores in general, they will be simply referred to as stores SH. Furthermore, when focusing on one terminal device 30, the multiple terminal devices 30 will be referred to as a first terminal device 31 and a second terminal device 32.

[0041] In the information distribution system 1 shown in Fig. 1, a store terminal device 20 broadcasts information for store and product promotions to users inside or outside a store. When a user passes by a store SH, the terminal device 30 receives the information distributed from the store terminal device 20, and after exchanging various types of information with the server 10 via a communication network 40, the terminal device 30 acquires electronic coupons and other items related to store use. Information is also exchanged between multiple terminal devices 30 by broadcast, and electronic coupons and other items can be acquired through the exchange of various types of information between these terminals and with the server 10. Furthermore, the exchange of information by broadcast between terminals enables multiple terminal devices 30 to be grouped together.

[0042] First, the server 10 in this information distribution system 1 configures a device having the following functional blocks by having the computer in the server 10 execute a program.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of an apparatus constructed by a computer in the server shown in FIG. 1 executing a program.

[0044] The server 10 configures a server-side content distribution device 100 having the following functional blocks by having its computer execute a program. The server-side content distribution device 100 includes a secondary content ID sending unit 101, a secondary content sending unit 102, a benefit sending unit 103, a primary content sending unit 104, a determination processing unit 105, and a group benefit generation unit 106. Furthermore, the server-side content distribution device 100 includes a user information storage unit 107, a store usage history storage unit 108, an information memory 109, an update processing unit 110, an additional information generation unit 111, a condition setting unit 112, a position / time acquisition unit 113, and a store visit information acquisition unit 114.

[0045] The computer of the server 10 executes a server-side content distribution program to operate as each functional block of the server-side content distribution device 100. This server-side content distribution program is stored in a storage medium such as a hard disk mounted on the computer of the server 10. Note that the storage medium for storing the server-side content distribution program is not limited to this, and may be a storage medium mounted on another computer or an external storage device connected to the computer of the server 10, or may be any portable storage medium, etc.

[0046] The secondary content ID sending unit 101 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a secondary content ID sending process. The secondary content ID sending process is a process of sending a secondary content ID, which will be described later, to any one of the first terminal devices 31.

[0047] In the following explanation, the term "ID" always represents a code as identification information, but the identification information referred to here is not limited to this ID (code), and any specific form of information is acceptable as long as it is information for identifying an object.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a primary content ID and a secondary content ID.

[0049] The primary content ID 20a is an ID unique to each store SH that is broadcast from the store terminal device 20 of each of the multiple stores SH that make up the information distribution system 1 of Fig. 1 to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30. The primary content ID 20a is associated with content information 20b in each store SH.

[0050] The content information 20b is information that has been pre-registered in the server 10 via the communication network 40 from the store terminal devices 20 of the multiple stores SH that make up the information distribution system 1 of Fig. 1, and is stored in the information memory 109. The content information 20b of each store SH is information that includes advertising information for that store SH, the store genre, coupons that can be used when using the store, and the like.

[0051] A primary content ID 20a is assigned to each of the multiple stores SH, and each primary content ID 20a is associated with content information 20b of each store SH and stored in the information memory 109. The primary content ID 20a is stored together with the content information 20b when it is pre-registered.

[0052] In the information distribution system 1 of Fig. 1, this primary content ID 20a is broadcast from the store terminal device 20 of the store SH. Then, when the primary content ID 20a is received and acquired by the terminal device 30 of a user passing through the distribution area of ​​this broadcast, this terminal device 30 sends the primary content ID 20a to the server 10. The server 10 searches the information memory 109 using the sent primary content ID 20a, and sends content information 20b associated with this primary content ID 20a to the terminal device 30. When the user who has viewed the content information 20b acquired in this way on the terminal device 30 visits the store indicated by the content information 20b, a secondary content ID 101a is sent to the terminal device 30 via the server 10 after determining whether or not a certain condition is met.

[0053] The secondary content ID 101a is associated with the content information 20b and the individual ID 30a that identifies the terminal device 30 involved in the series of information distributions, and is information that is generated during this series of information distributions.

[0054] 2 is a process in which, upon acquiring primary store visit information relating to the visit of the user of the first terminal device 31 from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1, the secondary content ID sending unit 101 sends the secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31. This primary store visit information also indicates whether or not a coupon included in the content information 20b has been used. The acquisition of the primary store visit information by the secondary content ID sending unit 101 is performed via the store visit information acquisition unit 114, which will be described later.

[0055] 1, the first terminal device 31 that has acquired this secondary content ID 101a broadcasts the secondary content ID 101a to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30 while being carried by a user and moving. When any one of the second terminal devices 32 receives and acquires this secondary content ID 101a, the second terminal device 32 sends the secondary content ID 101a to the server 10.

[0056] 2 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a secondary content delivery process. The secondary content delivery process is a process of, when a secondary content ID 101a is acquired from the second terminal device 32, sending content information 20b related to the secondary content ID 101a to the second terminal device 32.

[0057] The secondary content delivery unit 102 also acquires and records, together with the secondary content ID 101a from the second terminal device 32, position / time information indicating both the position and the time when the second terminal device 32 acquired the secondary content ID 101a. The secondary content delivery unit 102 acquires the position / time information via a position / time acquisition unit 113, which will be described later.

[0058] The benefit sending unit 103 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a benefit sending process. The benefit sending process is a process of sending benefit information to the first terminal device 31 when secondary store visit information regarding a visit by the user of the second terminal device 32 to the specific store SH1 indicated by the content information 20b related to the secondary content ID 101a is obtained from the store terminal device 20. Like the above-mentioned primary store visit information, the secondary store visit information also indicates whether or not a coupon has been used. The acquisition of the secondary store visit information by this benefit sending unit 103 is also performed via the store visit information acquisition unit 114, which will be described later.

[0059] The benefit information is information related to benefits such as coupons and points for use of the specific store SH1 that are returned to the first terminal device 31 in return for encouraging the user of the second terminal device 32 to visit or use the specific store SH1 by the distribution of the secondary content ID 101a. This benefit information can be used the next time the first terminal device 31 visits the specific store SH1.

[0060] The primary content sending unit 104 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a primary content sending process. The primary content sending process is a process that is executed when the first terminal device 31 receives and acquires the primary content ID 20a broadcast from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1 and sends the acquired primary content ID 20a to the server 10. The primary content sending process is a process that, when the primary content ID 20a is acquired from the first terminal device 31, sends content information 20b corresponding to the primary content ID 20a to the first terminal device 31.

[0061] The judgment processing unit 105 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a judgment process. The judgment process is a process for determining whether or not the secondary content ID 101a can be sent to the first terminal device 31, which is the sender of the primary content ID 20a. The judgment criteria used for the judgment in this judgment process are set in each of the multiple stores SH and pre-registered in the server 10 together with the content information 20b. Examples of this judgment criteria include a criterion that the number of times the user has visited the store SH is equal to or greater than a threshold, a criterion that the amount of product purchases made by the user at the store SH is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, or a criterion such as the number of times a special benefit has been given to the user.

[0062] When the secondary content ID sending unit 101 acquires the above-mentioned first store visit information, it sends the secondary content ID 101 a to the first terminal device 31 according to the determination result of the determination processing unit 105 .

[0063] 1, as described above, it is possible to form a group of multiple terminal devices 30 through the exchange of information by broadcast between the terminals. When the users of the terminal devices 30 that make up this group visit a store SH together, they can receive benefits such as a group discount.

[0064] The group benefit generation unit 106 shown in Fig. 2 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a group benefit generation process. The group benefit generation process is a process for generating group benefit information when group information is acquired from the terminal device 30 together with the primary content ID 20a or secondary content ID 101a related to the specific store SH1. The group information is information indicating that the terminal device 30 that sent this information forms a group with other terminal devices 30. The group here means that users carrying the terminal device 30 act together. The group benefit information is information related to benefits such as group discounts related to the use of the specific store SH1 by a group.

[0065] The user information storage unit 107 is constructed by executing a user information storage process by the computer of the server 10. The user information storage process is a process for storing user information relating to attributes of any user.

[0066] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of user information.

[0067] The user information 107a shown as an example in FIG. 4 is information relating to the attributes of the user, and indicates the individual ID 30a of the terminal device 30 owned by the user, the sex, and the age.

[0068] 2 acquires such user information 107a and stores it in information memory 109. When a user visits a store SH or registers for a service, this user information 107a is sent from the user's terminal device 30 to the server 10 via the store terminal device 20 or directly, and is stored in information memory 109.

[0069] The store usage history storage unit 108 is constructed by executing a store usage history storage process by the computer of the server 10. The store usage history storage process is a process for storing store usage history information indicating the history of stores SH used by each user.

[0070] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of store usage history information.

[0071] 5 is associated with each user's individual ID 30a and is information indicating the store genre, store name, number of visits, and time of each visit for the store SH that the user has visited. This store usage history information 108a is generated based on store visit information sent to the server 10 in response to information exchange between the store terminal device 20 and the terminal device 30 when the user visits the store, and is stored in the information memory 109.

[0072] In this embodiment, the store usage history storage unit 108 stores the store usage history information 108a described above, as well as the store information described below.

[0073] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of store information.

[0074] 6 is stored for each store SH and includes basic information 108c and update information 108d. The basic information 108c is advertising information that is also used in the content information 20b for the store SH, and information indicating the store genre. The update information 108d is information indicating the individual ID of each customer terminal, the time each customer visited the store, the gender and age group of each customer, and the number of times each customer visited the store, and is updated as appropriate based on the store visit information from the store terminal device 20.

[0075] The information memory 109 shown in FIG. 2 corresponds to a memory area of ​​the storage medium installed in the computer of the server 10 that is used to store various information related to the execution of the server-side content distribution program.

[0076] The update processing unit 110 is constructed by executing an update process by the computer of the server 10. The update process is a process in which, when store visit information indicating the visit of a user of any terminal device 30 and including user information 107a of the user is acquired from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1, the contents stored in the information memory 109 are updated based on the store visit information.

[0077] The additional information generation unit 111 is constructed by the execution of additional information generation processing by the computer of the server 10. The additional information generation processing is processing for generating additional information, which will be described below, when the secondary content ID 101a is acquired from the second terminal device 32.

[0078] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of additional information.

[0079] 7 is information based on at least one of the user information 107a and the store usage history information 108a related to the first terminal device 31 of the individual ID 30a associated with the secondary content ID 101a. The additional information 111a is information indicating the gender and age group of the user of the first terminal device 31 that is the distributor of the secondary content ID 101a, i.e., the distributor, and the number of times the distributor has visited the store SH related to the secondary content ID 101a.

[0080] The additional information generating unit 111 shown in FIG. 2 generates such additional information 111a in response to acquisition of the secondary content ID 101a from the second terminal device 32.

[0081] When the secondary content sending unit 102 sends the content information 20b of the specific store SH1 to the second terminal device 32 in response to the acquisition of the secondary content ID 101a, the secondary content sending unit 102 adds the above-mentioned additional information 111a to the content information 20b and sends it.

[0082] The condition setting unit 112 is constructed by executing a condition setting process by the computer of the server 10. The condition setting process is a process for setting distribution conditions regarding both the distribution area and distribution time of the primary content ID 20a associated with the content information 20b of the specific store SH1.

[0083] The secondary content ID sending unit 101 then sends the secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31 together with the above-mentioned distribution conditions.

[0084] The position / time acquisition unit 113 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a position / time acquisition process. The position / time acquisition process is a process of acquiring, from the second terminal device 32, position / time information indicating both the position and the time at which the second terminal device 32 acquired the secondary content ID 101a from the first terminal device 31. The position / time information acquired by this position / time acquisition unit 113 is passed to the condition setting unit 112 and also to the secondary content delivery unit 102. In this way, the secondary content delivery unit 102 acquires the position / time information via the position / time acquisition unit 113.

[0085] The store visit information acquisition unit 114 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a store visit information acquisition process. The store visit information acquisition process is a process of acquiring secondary store visit information indicating a store visit by the user of the second terminal device 32 from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1. The store visit information acquisition process also serves as a process of acquiring primary store visit information indicating a store visit by the user of the first terminal device 31 from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1. The primary store visit information and secondary store visit information acquired by the store visit information acquisition unit 114 are passed to the condition setting unit 112. The primary store visit information is also passed to the secondary content ID sending unit 101, and the secondary store visit information is also passed to the benefit sending unit 103. In this way, the secondary content ID sending unit 101 acquires the primary store visit information, and the benefit sending unit 103 acquires the secondary store visit information via the store visit information acquisition unit 114.

[0086] The condition setting unit 112 then updates the distribution conditions for the secondary content ID 101a in the first terminal device 31 based on the above-mentioned location / time information and store visit information.

[0087] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing various types of information used to update the distribution conditions, and FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing how the distribution conditions are updated based on the various types of information shown in FIG.

[0088] 8 shows in table form the individual ID 30a of the terminal device 30, the secondary content ID 101a, the location / time information 113a, and the store visit information 114a used to update the distribution conditions. From this information, the location and time at which the user who acquired the secondary content ID 101a visited the store SH associated with that secondary content ID 101a can be determined, and the effectiveness of the distribution can be known. In this embodiment, based on the effectiveness thus determined, at least one of the distribution area 112a and distribution time 112b of the secondary content ID 101a in the distribution conditions is updated as needed, as shown in an example in FIG.

[0089] In the example of Fig. 9, first, a predetermined circular area 112a-1 as the default distribution area 112a and all day as the default distribution time 112b are pre-registered as default distribution conditions from the store terminal device 20 of each store SH. After that, various information shown in Fig. 8 is compiled over a certain period of time, and statistical processing is performed on the compiled information to determine the effectiveness 112c for the distribution area and distribution time. Then, the distribution conditions are updated based on the effectiveness 112c. In the example of Fig. 9, based on the daytime effectiveness 112c, the distribution conditions are updated to daytime distribution conditions consisting of a distribution area 112a-2 corresponding to the daytime distribution time 112b-1 and nighttime distribution conditions consisting of a distribution area 112a-3 corresponding to the nighttime distribution time 112b-2.

[0090] 2 sends the secondary content ID 101a together with the latest distribution conditions updated as described above to the first terminal device 31. Then, the first terminal device 31 broadcasts the secondary content ID 101a with high validity based on the latest distribution conditions.

[0091] FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of the device constructed by the computer in the store terminal device shown in FIG. 1 executing a program.

[0092] 10 shows only the functional blocks related to content distribution, but if the store terminal device 20 is also connected to a payment device, various other functional blocks related to store operation, such as accepting payment, are configured. A store terminal program for configuring these functional blocks is stored in a storage medium installed in the computer of the store terminal device 20. The storage medium for storing the store terminal program is not limited to this, and may be a storage medium installed in another computer or external storage device connected to the computer of the store terminal device 20, or may be any portable storage medium, etc.

[0093] The following description of the store terminal device 20 focuses on the functional blocks related to content distribution.

[0094] The shop terminal device 20 includes a primary content ID sending unit 201, a shop visit information generating unit 202, and a shop visit information sending unit 203.

[0095] The primary content ID sending unit 201 is constructed by executing a primary content ID sending process by the computer of the store terminal device 20. The primary content ID sending process is a process of broadcasting a primary content ID 20a associated with content information 20b of the store SH to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30 inside and outside the store, which is the communication range of the store terminal device 20.

[0096] The store visit information generation unit 202 is constructed by executing a store visit information generation process by the computer of the store terminal device 20. The store visit information generation process is a process in which, when a user of any terminal device 30 visits a store, user information 107a is acquired by exchanging information with the terminal device 30, and store visit information is generated by adding to this information the time of visit and, if the user has visited the store before, the number of visits.

[0097] The store visit information sending unit 203 is constructed by executing a store visit information sending process by the computer of the store terminal device 20. The store visit information sending process is a process of sending the store visit information generated by the store visit information generation unit 202 to the server 10.

[0098] FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of a device constructed by a computer in the terminal device shown in FIG. 1 executing a program.

[0099] The computer in the terminal device 30 is a combination of one or more processors, a communication unit, a display screen, and other hardware installed in the terminal device 30 such as a smartphone or tablet terminal.

[0100] The terminal device 30 configures three types of devices, each having the functional blocks described below, by executing a program on its computer. That is, the terminal device 30 configures a terminal-side content distribution device 310 by executing a terminal-side content distribution program. The terminal device 30 also configures a content acquisition device 320 by executing a content acquisition program. Finally, the terminal device 30 configures a grouping device 330 by executing a grouping program.

[0101] The above programs executed by the computer of the terminal device 30 are stored in a storage medium installed in the computer of the terminal device 30. Note that the storage medium for storing these programs is not limited to this, and may be a storage medium installed in another computer or an external storage device connected to the computer of the terminal device 30, or any portable storage medium.

[0102] First, a description will be given of the terminal-side content distribution device 310. This terminal-side content distribution device 310 includes a primary content acquisition unit 311, a secondary content ID acquisition unit 312, a secondary content ID distribution unit 313, and a secondary content acquisition unit 314.

[0103] The primary content acquisition unit 311 is constructed by executing a primary content acquisition process by the computer of the terminal device 30. The primary content acquisition process is a process in which, when a primary content ID 20a is acquired from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1, the primary content ID 20a is sent to the server 10 and content information 20b associated with the primary content ID 20a is acquired.

[0104] The secondary content ID acquisition unit 312 is constructed by executing a secondary content ID acquisition process by the computer of the terminal device 30. The secondary content ID acquisition process is a process of acquiring the secondary content ID 101a related to the specific store SH1 from the server 10 together with the distribution conditions of the secondary content ID 101a.

[0105] The secondary content ID distribution unit 313 is constructed by the computer of the terminal device 30 executing a secondary content ID distribution process. The secondary content ID distribution process is a process of broadcasting the secondary content ID 101a when the location and time of the terminal device satisfy the distribution conditions. The secondary content ID distribution process also distributes the secondary content ID 101a based on the distribution conditions that are updated in the server 10 as described above.

[0106] The secondary content acquisition unit 314 is constructed by the computer of the terminal device 30 executing a secondary content acquisition process. The secondary content acquisition process is a process in which, when a secondary content ID 101a distributed by another device is acquired, the acquired secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server 10 and content information 20b associated with the secondary content ID 101a is acquired. The secondary content acquisition process also includes a process in which, when the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server 10, position / time information 113a related to the acquisition of the secondary content ID 101a is attached and sent to the server 10. The secondary content acquisition unit 314 is substantially equivalent to the content acquisition device 320 described below.

[0107] Next, a description will be given of the content acquiring device 320. This content acquiring device 320 includes a secondary content ID acquiring unit 321, a secondary content ID sending unit 322, and a secondary content acquiring unit 323.

[0108] The secondary content ID acquisition unit 321 is constructed by executing a secondary content ID acquisition process by the computer of the terminal device 30. The secondary content ID acquisition process is a process for acquiring the secondary content ID 101a transmitted by broadcast from any terminal device 30.

[0109] The secondary content ID sending unit 322 is constructed by executing a secondary content ID sending process by the computer of the terminal device 30. The secondary content ID sending process is a process of sending the secondary content ID 101a to the server 10.

[0110] The secondary content acquisition unit 323 is constructed by executing a secondary content acquisition process by the computer of the terminal device 30. The secondary content acquisition process is a process of acquiring the content information 20b associated with the secondary content ID 101a together with the above-mentioned additional information 111a.

[0111] Next, we will explain the grouping device 330. This grouping device 330 includes a grouping signal distribution unit 331, a group candidate setting unit 332, a group ID issuing unit 333, a received data memory 334, and a group memory 335. The grouping device 330 also includes an approval return unit 336, a secondary content acquisition unit 337, a group exclusion setting unit 338, and a confirmation return unit 339.

[0112] The grouping signal distribution unit 331 is constructed by executing a grouping signal distribution process by the computer of the terminal device 30. The grouping signal distribution process is a process of broadcasting a self-device grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices and that identifies the self-device.

[0113] The group candidate setting unit 332 is constructed by the computer of the terminal device 30 executing a group candidate setting process. The group candidate setting process is a process in which, when an other device grouping signal of a predetermined strength or greater that identifies the other device is continuously received from the other device for a predetermined period of time, the other device is set as a group candidate. At this time, the progress of the reception of the other device grouping signal until the predetermined period of time has elapsed is stored in the received data memory 334.

[0114] The group ID issuing unit 333 is constructed by the computer of the terminal device 30 executing a group ID issuing process. The group ID issuing process is a process of sending a group approval request to other devices that are group candidates and issuing a group ID that identifies the group to other devices that receive an approval response. In this group ID issuing process, the issued group ID and the individual IDs 30a of other devices that form the group together with the terminal device 30 are stored in the group memory 335.

[0115] In this embodiment, the group ID is identification information that identifies the group and also identifies the constituent devices of the group. If the device belongs to a group, the grouping signal distribution unit 331 distributes the group ID as the device's grouping signal. On the other hand, if the device does not belong to a group, the grouping signal distribution unit 331 distributes the individual ID 30a that identifies the device as the device's grouping signal.

[0116] The group candidate setting unit 332 and the group ID issuing unit 333 set group candidates and issue group IDs according to the type of other device grouping signal acquired from other devices.

[0117] The received data memory 334 corresponds to a memory area of ​​the storage medium installed in the computer of the terminal device 30 that is used to store the progress of the other device grouping signal.

[0118] The group memory 335 corresponds to a memory area of ​​a storage medium installed in the computer of the terminal device 30 that is used to store the above-mentioned group ID and the individual ID 30a of other devices.

[0119] The approval reply unit 336 is constructed by executing approval reply processing by the computer of the terminal device 30. The approval reply processing is processing for returning an approval response when a group approval request is received from another device.

[0120] The secondary content acquisition unit 337 is constructed by the computer of the terminal device 30 executing a secondary content acquisition process. The secondary content acquisition process is a process of acquiring a secondary content ID 101a related to the specific store SH1 and sending group information indicating that a group is formed to the server 10. Furthermore, the secondary content acquisition process is a process of acquiring content information 20b of the specific store SH1 and benefit information related to benefits such as group discounts related to the use of the specific store SH1 by a group.

[0121] The group exclusion setting unit 338 is constructed by the computer of the terminal device 30 executing a group exclusion setting process. The group exclusion setting process is a process in which, if a group ID of a predetermined strength or higher is not obtained from one of the group's constituent devices within a predetermined time, a confirmation request is sent to all of the group's constituent devices to confirm the existence of the one of the group's constituent devices. Then, if no confirmation response is obtained from any of the constituent devices, the group exclusion setting process is a process in which the one of the group's constituent devices is excluded from the group.

[0122] The confirmation return unit 339 is constructed by executing a confirmation return process by the computer of the terminal device 30. The confirmation return process is a process of returning a confirmation response when the confirmation request is received from any of the devices constituting the group.

[0123] Furthermore, when one member device is excluded from the group by the group exclusion setting unit 338, the group ID issuing unit 333 discards the group ID of the group. If there is another member device in the group other than the group ID issuing unit 333, the group ID issuing unit 333 issues a new group ID that identifies a new group excluding the one member device.

[0124] Next, the information distribution process executed in the information distribution system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

[0125] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing the start to the middle of the flowchart representing the information distribution processing. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the flowchart representing the information distribution processing continuing from Fig. 12 to the middle of the process. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing the flowchart representing the information distribution processing continuing from Fig. 13 to the middle of the process. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the flowchart representing the information distribution processing continuing from Fig. 14 to the middle of the process. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the flowchart representing the information distribution processing continuing from Fig. 15 to the end.

[0126] The flowcharts shown in these figures start when a program related to information distribution processing is launched in each of the server 10, the store terminal device 20, and the plurality of terminal devices 30. Note that in Figures 12 to 16, the flowcharts for the terminal devices 30 are shown focusing on two of the plurality of terminal devices 30, namely, the first terminal device 31 and the second terminal device 32.

[0127] When the process starts, first, a primary content ID sending step (step S11) is executed in the store terminal device 20. In the primary content ID sending step (step S11), a primary content ID 20a is distributed by broadcast to the outside of the store.

[0128] When a terminal device 30 enters the distribution area of ​​the broadcast of the store terminal device 20, it is designated as a first terminal device 31, and a primary content ID acquisition step (step S12) is executed in this first terminal device 31. In the primary content ID acquisition step (step S12), the primary content ID 20a is received and acquired from the store terminal device 20. Subsequently, a first terminal side group determination step (step S13) is executed. In the first terminal side group determination step (step S13), it is determined whether or not the own device forms a group with other devices by referring to the group memory 335 shown in FIG. 11. If a group is formed (YES determination in step S13), a primary content ID sending step (step S14) with group information is executed. In this primary content ID sending step (step S14), the primary content ID 20a is sent to the server together with group information indicating that the group is formed. On the other hand, if no group is configured (NO determination in step S13), a primary content ID sending step (step S15) without group information is executed. In this primary content ID sending step (step S15), only the primary content ID 20a is sent to the server. The primary content ID 20a is sent by unicast in these primary content ID sending steps (steps S14, S15).

[0129] When the first terminal device 31 executes this series of processes, the server 10 first executes a primary content ID acquisition step (step S16). In the primary content ID acquisition step (step S16), the primary content ID 20a is received and acquired from the first terminal device 31. Subsequently, a server-side group determination step (step S17) is executed. In the server-side group determination step (step S17), it is determined whether the first terminal device 31 is part of a group based on the presence or absence of group information. If the first terminal device 31 is part of a group (YES determination in step S17), a group privilege generation step (step S18) is executed, followed by a primary content delivery step (step S19). In the group privilege generation step (step S18), group privilege information relating to privileges related to group use is generated. In a primary content delivery step (step S19) following the group privilege generation step (step S18), content information 20b corresponding to the primary content ID 20a is delivered to the first terminal device 31 together with the group privilege information. On the other hand, if a group is not formed (NO determination in step S17), the group benefit generation step (step S18) is omitted and the primary content delivery step (step S19) is executed. In this case, only the content information 20b is delivered to the first terminal device 31. The information delivery in the primary content delivery step (step S19) is also performed by unicast.

[0130] When the content information 20b is sent from the server 10 in this manner, a primary content acquisition step (step S20) is executed in the first terminal device 31. In the primary content acquisition step (step S20), the content information 20b is acquired from the server 10. The processing of steps S12 to S14 and step S20 in the first terminal device 31 constitutes a content acquisition step for acquiring the content information 20b via the primary content ID 20a.

[0131] Thereafter, when the user of the first terminal device 31 visits the specific store SH1 indicated by the content information 20b, a store visit / check-in process (step S21) is executed in the first terminal device 31. In the store visit / check-in process (step S21), the first terminal device 31 is connected to the store terminal device 20 via a short-range wireless communication means such as a wireless local area network (LAN) or Bluetooth (registered trademark) within the store, and user information 107a and the like are sent from the first terminal device 31 to the store terminal device 20. The store visit / check-in process may also be a process of using (applying) a coupon or the like.

[0132] Then, the store terminal device 20 executes a store visit information generating / sending step (step S22) based on the sent user information 107a, etc. In the store visit information generating / sending step (step S22), primary store visit information including the user information 107a, which indicates the store visit of the user of the first terminal device 31, is generated and sent to the server 10. Note that, in the store visit / check-in step of step S21, the store visit information is sent from the first terminal device 31 to the store terminal device 20, but it may also be sent from the first terminal device 31 to the server 10. In this case, the ID of the store terminal device or the location information of the first terminal device 31 may be used as proof of the store visit. Furthermore, if the primary content ID is set to be unique to the store terminal device, the primary content acquisition operation (S14, S15 to S19) itself can be used as the store visit / check-in step.

[0133] The server 10 executes a user information storage step (step S23) and a store usage history storage step (step S24) based on the primary store visit information from the store terminal device 20. In the user information storage step (step S23), the user information 107a included in the primary store visit information is stored. If the current user information 107a relates to the same user as the user in the already stored user information 107a, the current user information 107a is updated to the latest user information 107a. In the store usage history storage step (step S24), if the current visit is to a store SH that is new to the user, new store usage history information 108a relating to this store SH is stored. Furthermore, if the current visit is to a store SH that the user has visited before, the store usage history information 108a is updated.

[0134] Next, the server 10 executes a condition setting step (step S25) regarding the delivery conditions of the secondary content ID 101a of the specific store SH1 that the user of the first terminal device 31 has visited this time. Furthermore, the server 10 executes an additional information generating step (step S26). In the additional information generating step (step S26), additional information 111a to be added to the secondary content ID 101a is generated based on the user information 107a and the store usage history information 108a included in the above-mentioned primary store visit information.

[0135] Next, the server 10 executes a determination step (step S27) regarding the sending of the secondary content ID 101a. In the determination step (step S27), it is determined whether or not the secondary content ID 101a can be sent based on the determination criteria set in the specific store SH1. If sending is not possible (NO determination in step S27), the server 10 returns to the state immediately after the start and repeats the subsequent processing. On the other hand, if sending is possible (YES determination in step S27), a secondary content ID sending step (step S28) is executed. In the secondary content ID sending step (step S28), the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the first terminal device 31 by unicast together with the distribution conditions.

[0136] In the first terminal device 31, a secondary content ID acquisition step (step S29) is executed. In the secondary content ID acquisition step (step S29), the secondary content ID 101a and the distribution conditions sent from the server 10 are acquired. Subsequently, a condition determination step (step S30) is executed. In the condition determination step (step S30), it is determined whether or not the location of the device itself and the time satisfy the distribution conditions. If the distribution conditions are not satisfied (NO determination in step S30), the condition determination step (step S30) is repeated until the distribution conditions are satisfied due to the movement of the user and the passage of time. Then, if the distribution conditions are satisfied (YES determination in step S30), a secondary content ID distribution step (step S31) is executed. In the secondary content ID distribution step (step S31), the secondary content ID 101a is distributed by broadcast to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30. Note that the latest distribution conditions may be queried from the server when judging the conditions.

[0137] When another terminal device 30 enters the distribution area of ​​the broadcast by the first terminal device 31, this terminal device 30 is designated as the second terminal device 32, and a secondary content ID acquisition step (step S32) is executed in this second terminal device 32. In the secondary content ID acquisition step (step S32), the secondary content ID 101a is received and acquired from the first terminal device 31. Subsequently, a second terminal side group determination step (step S33) is executed. In the second terminal side group determination step (step S33), it is determined whether or not the own device is part of a group. If part of a group is formed (YES determination in step S33), a secondary content ID sending step (step S34) with group information is executed. In this secondary content ID sending step (step S34), the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server together with the group information. At this time, in the secondary content ID sending step (step S34), the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server together with the location / time information 113a indicating the location and time when the second terminal device 32 acquired the secondary content ID 101a. On the other hand, if a group is not formed (NO determination in step S33), a secondary content ID sending step (step S35) without group information is executed. In this secondary content ID sending step (step S35), only the secondary content ID 101a and the location / time information 113a are sent to the server. The secondary content ID 101a, etc. are sent by unicast in these secondary content ID sending steps (steps S34, S35).

[0138] Next, the server 10 acquires the secondary content ID 101a from the second terminal device 32 in a secondary content ID acquisition step (step S36), and determines whether the second terminal device 32 is part of a group in a server-side group determination step (step S37). If part of a group is formed (YES determination in step S37), group benefit information is generated in a group benefit generation step (step S38), and content information 20b and the group benefit information are sent to the second terminal device 32 in a secondary content delivery step (step S39). On the other hand, if part of a group is not formed (NO determination in step S37), the group benefit generation step (step S38) is omitted, and only content information 20b is sent to the second terminal device 32 in the secondary content delivery step (step S39). Information delivery in the secondary content delivery step (step S39) is also performed by unicast.

[0139] When the content information 20b is sent from the server 10 in this manner, the second terminal device 32 executes a secondary content acquisition step (step S40) and acquires the content information 20b from the server 10.

[0140] Thereafter, when the user of the second terminal device 32 visits the specific store SH1 indicated by the content information 20b, a store visit / check-in process (step S41) is executed in the second terminal device 32. In the store visit / check-in process (step S41), user information 107a and the like is sent from the second terminal device 32 to the store terminal device 20 via short-range wireless communication such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The store visit / check-in process may also be a process of using (applying) a coupon or the like.

[0141] The store terminal device 20 executes a store visit information generating / sending step (step S42) based on the sent user information 107a, etc. In the store visit information generating / sending step (step S42), secondary store visit information including the user information 107a, which indicates the store visit of the user of the second terminal device 32, is generated and sent to the server 10. Note that in the store visit / check-in step of step S41, the store visit information is sent from the second terminal device 32 to the store terminal device 20, but it may also be sent from the second terminal device 32 to the server 10. At this time, the ID or location information of the store terminal device may be used as proof of the store visit.

[0142] The server 10 executes a benefit sending step (step S43) when it acquires the secondary store visit information from the store terminal device 20. In the benefit sending step (step S43), benefit information such as coupons relating to benefits for using the specific store is generated and sent to the first terminal device 31 in return for the content distribution.

[0143] The server 10 then executes a user information storage step (step S44) and a store usage history storage step (step S45) based on the secondary store visit information from the store terminal device 20. In the user information storage step (step S44), the user information 107a of the second terminal device 32 included in the secondary store visit information is stored. If the current user information 107a relates to the same user as the user in the already stored user information 107a, the current user information 107a is updated to the latest user information 107a. In the store usage history storage step (step S45), if the current visit is to a store SH that is new to the user, new store usage history information 108a relating to this store SH is stored. Furthermore, if the current visit is to a store SH that the user has visited in the past, the store usage history information 108a is updated.

[0144] Next, the server 10 executes a condition updating step (step S46) for the secondary content ID 101a of the specific store SH1 that the user of the second terminal device 32 has visited this time. In the condition updating step (step S46), the delivery conditions for the secondary content ID 101a of the specific store SH1 are updated based on the location / time information 113a sent from the second terminal device 32 in step S34 or step S35.

[0145] Thereafter, the server 10 executes a termination determination step (step S47). In the termination determination step (step S47), it is determined whether an instruction to terminate the program related to the information distribution processing or to turn off the power has been given. If an instruction to terminate the program or turn off the power has not been given (NO determination in step S47), the process returns to immediately after the start and the subsequent processes are repeated. If an instruction has been given (YES determination in step S47), the process related to the information distribution processing in the server 10 ends.

[0146] After sending the secondary store visit information in step S42, the store terminal device 20 executes an end determination step (step S48). In the end determination step (step S48), it is determined whether an instruction to end the program related to the information distribution processing or to turn off the power has been given. If an instruction to end the program or turn off the power has not been given (NO in step S48), the process returns to immediately after the start and the subsequent processes are repeated. If an instruction has been given (YES in step S47), the process related to the information distribution processing in the store terminal device 20 ends.

[0147] In the first terminal device 31, after receiving the benefit information from the server 10 in step S43, a reception confirmation step (step S49) is executed for the secondary content ID 101a related to any of the stores SH broadcast from another device. If the secondary content ID 101a is received (YES in step S49), the first terminal device 31 then becomes the second terminal device 32, and proceeds to the secondary content ID acquisition step (step S32) in the processing of the second terminal device 32, and thereafter continues processing as the second terminal device 32.

[0148] On the other hand, if the secondary content ID 101a is not received from another device (NO in step S49), the first terminal device 31 executes a reception confirmation step (step S50) for the primary content ID 20a from the store terminal device 20 of another store SH. If the primary content ID 20a is received (YES in step S50), the process returns to the primary content ID acquisition step (step S12), and the subsequent processes are repeated. If the primary content ID 20a related to another store SH is not received (NO in step S50), the end determination step (step S51) is executed. In the end determination step (step S51), it is determined whether an instruction to end the program related to the information distribution process or to turn off the power has been issued. If an instruction to end the program or to turn off the power has not been issued (NO in step S51), the process returns to the condition determination step (step S30) related to the distribution of the secondary content ID 101a of the specific store SH1, and the subsequent processes are repeated. If the instruction is given (determination of 50 in step S47), the process in the first terminal device 31 relating to the information distribution process ends.

[0149] In the second terminal device 32, after the store visit / check-in process (step S41), a reception confirmation process (step S52) is executed for the primary content ID 20a from the store terminal device 20 of any store SH. If the primary content ID 20a is received (YES determination in step S52), the second terminal device 32 becomes the first terminal device 31, and proceeds to the primary content ID acquisition process (step S12) in the processing of the first terminal device 31, and thereafter, the processing as the first terminal device 31 is continued.

[0150] On the other hand, if the primary content ID 20a has not been received (NO in step S52), the second terminal device 32 executes a second reception confirmation step (step S53) for the secondary content ID 101a. If the secondary content ID 20a has been received again (YES in step S53), the process returns to the secondary content ID acquisition step (step S32) and the subsequent processes are repeated. If the secondary content ID 20a has not been received again (NO in step S53), the process executes an end determination step (step S54). In the end determination step (step S54), it is determined whether an instruction to end the program related to the information distribution process or to turn off the power has been issued. If an instruction to end the program or to turn off the power has not been issued (NO in step S54), the process returns to the state immediately after the start of the second terminal device 32 and the subsequent processes are repeated. If an instruction has been issued (YES in step S54), the process related to the information distribution process in the second terminal device 32 ends.

[0151] Of the information distribution processes described above, the process performed by the server 10 corresponds to an example of a server-side content distribution method. The process performed by the first terminal device 31 corresponds to an example of a terminal-side content distribution method. The process performed by the second terminal device 32 corresponds to an example of a content acquisition method.

[0152] Next, the grouping performed among the plurality of terminal devices 30 in the information distribution system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

[0153] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a process for starting grouping among a plurality of terminal devices in the information distribution system shown in FIG.

[0154] The flowcharts shown in these figures start when one of a plurality of terminal devices 30, each of which is executing a grouping program, receives an other device grouping signal from another device that identifies that other device.

[0155] The terminal device 30 that has received the other device grouping signal executes an ID confirmation step (step S61). In the ID confirmation step (step S61), if the terminal device 30 is part of a group, it is determined whether the received other device grouping signal has a group ID that indicates the same group as the group to which the terminal device 30 belongs. If the group ID is the same group (YES in step S61), it is determined that grouping has already been completed and the process is terminated.

[0156] On the other hand, if the group ID is not the same group (NO in step S61), this means that the other device's grouping signal is the group ID of another group, or that the other device's grouping signal is not a group ID but an individual ID 30a. In these cases, a radio wave strength confirmation step (step S62) is first executed. In the radio wave strength confirmation step (step S62), it is confirmed whether the radio wave strength of the other device's grouping signal is equal to or greater than a threshold value corresponding to a predetermined strength. If the radio wave strength is less than the threshold value (NO in step S61), it is determined that the other device is a terminal device 30 of a completely different user located far away from the own device, and grouping is unnecessary, and the process is terminated.

[0157] If the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than the threshold value (YES in step S61), a continuity check is performed in the subsequent steps to determine whether or not this other device grouping signal has continued for a predetermined period of time.

[0158] First, in a first confirmation step (step S63), it is confirmed whether or not the same other device grouping signal is stored in the above-mentioned received data memory 334. If the same signal is not stored (NO in step S63), a new storage step (step S64) is executed. In the new storage step (step S64), the current other device grouping signal and its reception time are stored in the received data memory 334. In this case, it is determined that it is too early for grouping, and the process is terminated and the next reception is awaited.

[0159] If the same signal is stored in the received data memory 334 (YES determination in step S62), a second confirmation step (step S65) is executed. In the second confirmation step (step S65), it is confirmed whether the current reception is within a predetermined step time T_a from the time when the previous same other device grouping signal was received. If it is not within the step time T_a (NO determination in step S65), it is determined that the previous continuity of the other device grouping signal has been broken, and a memory reset step (step S66) is executed. In the memory reset step (step S66), the previous stored contents of the current other device grouping signal in the received data memory 334 are discarded, and the current other device grouping signal and its reception time are newly stored. Thereafter, the process ends and the next reception is awaited.

[0160] If the current reception is within the step time T_a from the previous reception (YES in step S65), a third confirmation step (step S67) is executed. In the third confirmation step (step S67), it is confirmed whether the time from the reception time of the first of the series of other device grouping signals stored in the reception data memory 334 to the current reception time exceeds the continuity guarantee time T_b. If the continuity guarantee time T_b has not been exceeded (NO in step S67), it is determined that it is too early for grouping, and the process is terminated and the next reception is awaited.

[0161] On the other hand, if the continuity guarantee time T_b has been exceeded (YES judgment in step S67), grouping (step S100) is initiated assuming that the user of the terminal device 30 that sent the other device grouping signal is acting together with the user of the own terminal device 30.

[0162] Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a flowchart illustrating grouping from the start to the middle. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a flowchart illustrating grouping from a continuation of Fig. 18 to the end. Note that the flowcharts in Fig. 18 and 19 show two terminal devices 30 involved in grouping: a first terminal device 31 owned by a first user and a second terminal device 32 owned by a second user. In the following, for ease of explanation, the other device grouping signal received in the processing in Fig. 17 is described as an individual ID 30a that individually identifies the terminal device 30.

[0163] 18 and 19, the start of grouping has been decided in each of the first terminal device 31 and the second terminal device 32. In this state, the first terminal device 31 executes a group candidate setting step (step S101) and an approval request step (step S102) before the second terminal device 32. In the group candidate setting step (step S101), the second terminal device 32 corresponding to the other device grouping signal received in the processing of FIG. 17 is set as a group candidate. Once the group candidate is set, in the approval request step (step S102), a group approval request is sent to the second terminal device 32 that has become the group candidate. Then, in the first terminal device 31, an approval refusal step (step S103) is executed, and the first terminal device 31 becomes a parent device of the grouping that does not accept group approval requests from other devices, i.e., the second terminal device 32. The terminal device to which the group approval request is sent in S102 may be selected by the user from group candidates, may be automatically selected based on preset conditions, or may be sent to all terminal devices that are candidates.

[0164] When the second terminal device 32 receives a group approval request from the first terminal device 31, it executes a request destination confirmation step (step S104) for this group approval request. The group approval request includes the individual ID 30a of the first terminal device 31, which is the request source, and the individual ID 30a of the second terminal device 32, which is the request destination. In the request destination confirmation step (step S104), it is confirmed whether or not this group approval request was sent to the second terminal device 32 by referencing the individual ID 30a indicating the request destination in the group approval request. If the group approval request was not sent to the second terminal device 32 (NO determination in step S104), the second terminal device 32 terminates the process, assuming that the group has not been established.

[0165] If the group approval request has been sent to the second terminal device 32 (YES determination in step S104), a response confirmation step (step S105) for the second user is executed. In the response confirmation step (step S105), a message asking whether or not to form a group with the first user is displayed on the display screen of the second terminal device 32, and the response is confirmed in response to an operation by the second user. If a group is not to be formed (NO determination in step S105), the second terminal device 32 terminates the process as the group has not been established.

[0166] If a group is to be formed (YES determination in step S105), an approval return step (step S106) is executed. In the approval return step (step S106), an approval response is sent from the second terminal device 32 to the first terminal device 31. This approval response also includes the individual ID 30a of the first terminal device 31 and the individual ID 30a of the second terminal device 32. Then, a request rejection step (step S107) is executed in the second terminal device 32, and the second terminal device 32 becomes a slave device of the first terminal device 31 that does not accept group approval requests from any device other than the first terminal device 31 that is the master device in this grouping.

[0167] In the first terminal device 31, after the approval request step (step S102) and the approval refusal step (step S103), the first terminal device 31 waits for a predetermined response confirmation time T_c, and then executes a response confirmation step (step S108). In the response confirmation step (step S108), it is confirmed whether or not an approval response has been received within the response confirmation time T_c. If an approval response has not been received (NO in step S108), the first terminal device 31 determines that the group has not been established and ends the process.

[0168] If an approval response is received within the response confirmation time T_c (YES determination in step S108), the first terminal device 31 executes a group ID issuing step (step S109). In the group ID issuing step (step S109), a group ID for identifying the current group is issued from the first terminal device 31, which is the parent device, to the second terminal device 32, which is a child device that is a member of the group. A serial number is assigned to this group ID as a group number to each member device of the group. The group number is "1" for the first terminal device 31, which is the parent device, and is assigned thereafter in ascending order in the order in which approval responses are received. In this example, since there is only one child device, the second terminal device 32, the group number "2" is assigned to the group ID of the second terminal device 32. Such a numbered group ID serves as identification information that identifies the group as well as the members of the group.

[0169] In the second terminal device 32, after the approval return step (step S106) and the request rejection step (step S107), an ID issuance confirmation step (step S110) is executed after a predetermined waiting time. In the ID issuance confirmation step (step S110), it is confirmed whether or not a group ID has been received within the waiting time. If a group ID has not been received (NO in step S110), the second terminal device 32 determines that the group has not been established and terminates the process.

[0170] If the group ID is received within the waiting time (YES in step S110), a group ID sending step (step S111) for confirming reception is executed in the second terminal device 32. In the group ID sending step (step S111), the group ID with the number of the second terminal device 32 is sent to the first terminal device 31.

[0171] On the other hand, the first terminal device 31 issues group IDs for the members of the group (only the second terminal device 32 in this example), and then executes a group ID reception confirmation step (step S112). In the group ID reception confirmation step (step S112), it is confirmed whether or not the reception of group IDs from all members (only the second terminal device 32 in this example) has been completed within a predetermined confirmation time T_d. If not completed (NO in step S112), a regrouping confirmation step (step S113) is executed. In the regrouping confirmation step (step S113), a message asking whether or not to form a group again is displayed on the display screen of the first terminal device 31, and a response is confirmed in response to an operation by the first user. If the response indicates that regrouping is not necessary (NO in step S113), the first terminal device 31 considers the group not to be established and terminates the process. If the response indicates that regrouping is to be completed (YES in step S113), the process returns to immediately after the start of grouping in the first terminal device 31, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

[0172] On the other hand, if the group ID reception confirmation step (step S112) confirms that the group IDs from all members have been received within the predetermined confirmation time T_d (YES in step S112), the parent device executes a group ID sending step (step S114). In this group ID sending step (step S114), the group ID of the first terminal device 31 with the number "1" attached is sent to the second terminal device 32.

[0173] Following this, the first terminal device 31 executes a group registration step (step S115). In the group registration step (step S115), the group ID with the number "2" of the second terminal device 32 that will now form the group is stored in its own group memory 335. With this group registration step (step S115), the first terminal device 31 ends the grouping process.

[0174] On the other hand, the second terminal device 32 executes a group registration step (step S116) for the group ID with the number "1" sent from the first terminal device 31. In this group registration step (step S116), the group ID with the number "1" of the first terminal device 31 is stored in its own group memory 335. In the second terminal device 32, the group registration step (step S116) also ends the grouping process.

[0175] After the grouping is completed in this way, each terminal device 30 that is a member of the group will check whether the group has been established or not, and will exclude a user from the group when that user leaves the group, etc. This group confirmation / exclusion process is performed by each terminal device 30 that is a member of the group periodically distributing its own numbered group ID.

[0176] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the group confirmation / exclusion process executed after grouping.

[0177] In this group confirmation / exclusion process, first, a group ID confirmation step (step S201) is executed. In the group ID confirmation step (step S201), it is confirmed whether a group ID of a predetermined strength or more has been received from another device within a predetermined confirmation time T_e since the previous reception was confirmed. The reception time of the group ID from each member device of the group is stored in group memory 335, and reception of the group ID is confirmed by referring to the stored contents of this group memory 335. If reception is confirmed (YES determination in step S201), the group ID confirmation step (step S201) continues.

[0178] On the other hand, if reception of the group ID is not confirmed (NO in step S201), a confirmation request step (step S202) and a confirmation refusal step (step S203) are executed for other members of the group. In the confirmation request step (step S202), a confirmation request is sent to all members of the group other than the own device to confirm the existence of members whose reception of the group ID has not been confirmed. In the confirmation refusal step (step S203), confirmation requests from other members are rejected.

[0179] After this, a response confirmation step (step S204) for the confirmation request is executed. In the response confirmation step (step S204), it is determined whether or not an confirmation response has been received from any of the constituent devices within a predetermined response time T_f after the confirmation request. If an confirmation response has been received (YES determination in step S204), a memory update step (step S205) is executed. In the memory update step (step S205), the latest reception time of the group ID for the constituent device to be confirmed in the group memory 335 is updated to the reception time of the confirmation response. After the memory update step (step S205), the processing from the group ID confirmation step (step S201) onwards is repeated.

[0180] If no confirmation response is received from any of the constituent devices within the response time T_f (determination of NO in step S204), an exclusion notification step (step S206) is executed. In the exclusion notification step (step S206), a message is displayed asking whether or not to exclude the constituent device (i.e., the user) from the group, thereby notifying the user of the device of the exclusion. Following this exclusion notification step (step S206), an exclusion confirmation step (step S207) is executed. In the exclusion confirmation step (step S207), whether or not to exclude the device is confirmed based on an operation by the user who received the notification. If an operation not to exclude the device is performed by the user (determination of NO in step S207), the process returns to the confirmation request step (step S202) via a waiting step (step S208), and the subsequent processes are repeated.

[0181] If the user has performed an operation to exclude the group (YES determination in step S207), a member confirmation step (step S209) is executed. In the member confirmation step (step S209), it is confirmed whether or not the group memory 335 stores the group IDs of the constituent devices in addition to the own device and the constituent device to be excluded. In other words, it is confirmed whether or not there are any constituent devices in the group other than the own device. If there are no other constituent devices in the group (NO determination in step S209), a group ID discarding step (step S210) is executed. In the group ID discarding step (step S210), the group ID in the group memory 335 is discarded and the group is dissolved.

[0182] On the other hand, if other component devices exist (YES determination in step S209), a regrouping step (step S211) is executed. In the regrouping step (step S211), the group ID in the group memory 335 is discarded, and then regrouping is performed to issue a new group ID that identifies a new group excluding the component device to be excluded. The processing at this time is the grouping processing shown in Figures 18 and 19.

[0183] The group confirmation / exclusion process ends with the group ID discarding step (step S210) or the regrouping step (step S211).

[0184] As described above, each terminal device 30 executes a grouping signal distribution process for broadcasting a grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices and identifies the terminal device 30. This grouping signal distribution process is performed as follows.

[0185] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the grouping signal distribution process.

[0186] This grouping signal distribution process starts when each terminal device 30 is powered on.

[0187] When the process starts, first, a group confirmation step (step S301) is executed. In the group confirmation step (step S301), it is confirmed whether the own device belongs to a group. If the own device belongs to a group (YES determination in step S301), a first distribution step (step S302) is executed, and if the own device does not belong to a group (NO determination in step S301), a second distribution step (step S303) is executed. In the first distribution step (step S302), the above-mentioned numbered group ID is distributed as the own device grouping signal. On the other hand, in the second distribution step (step S303), an individual ID 30a that identifies the own device is distributed as the own device grouping signal.

[0188] After any of the distribution steps is performed, a progress confirmation step (step S304) is executed. In the progress confirmation step (step S304), it is confirmed whether a predetermined elapsed time T_g has elapsed since the distribution of the own device's grouping signal. The elapsed time T_g at this time corresponds to the step time T_a in the second confirmation step (step S65) in Fig. 17 and the confirmation time T_e in the group ID confirmation step (step S201) in Fig. 20.

[0189] If the elapsed time T_g has not elapsed (NO determination in step S304), the elapsed time confirmation step (step S304) is repeated. If the elapsed time T_g has elapsed (YES determination in step S304), the termination confirmation step (step S305) is executed. In the termination confirmation step (step S305), it is confirmed whether or not a power-off command has been issued. If a power-off command has been issued (YES determination in step S305), the process is terminated, and if a power-off command has not been issued (NO determination in step S305), the process returns to the group confirmation step (step S301) and the subsequent processes are repeated.

[0190] According to the server-side content distribution in the embodiment described above, the content information 20b can be distributed via the first terminal device 31 carried by a user who moves around freely. Then, when a user of the second terminal device 32 who has received the content information 20b visits the store, special benefit information is sent to the first terminal device 31 that is the distribution source. This can increase the motivation of the user of the first terminal device 31 regarding the content distribution, leading to further distribution. In this way, according to this embodiment, the content information 20b can be widely distributed via the terminal device 30.

[0191] Here, in this embodiment, when the server 10 acquires the primary content ID 20a associated with the content information 20b from the first terminal device 31, the content information 20b corresponding to the primary content ID 20a is sent to the first terminal device 31. This configuration is preferable because it can encourage the user of the first terminal device 31 to visit the store as an opportunity to send the secondary content ID 101a by sending the content information 20b to the first terminal device 31.

[0192] In this embodiment, the server 10 determines whether or not to send the secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31. Then, when the server 10 acquires the primary store visit information, the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the first terminal device 31 according to the result of the determination. This configuration is preferable because it allows the service to be provided by selecting users who want to receive the content information 20b in exchange for the secondary content ID 101a and special benefit information in exchange for the content information 20b, in other words, users who can receive a high advertising effect, based on the determination of whether or not to send the content information.

[0193] In this embodiment, the decision as to whether to send the secondary content ID 101a is made based on the criteria set by the specific store SH1. This configuration allows the store SH to set criteria for determining which users it wants to receive the content information 20b from in exchange for special information, such as users who have visited the store multiple times in the past and are expected to visit again.

[0194] In this embodiment, the content information 20b includes coupons related to use of the specific store SH1, and the first and second store visit information also indicate whether or not the coupons were used. This configuration allows confirmation of whether or not the coupons distributed as the content information 20b were effectively used, which can be useful in planning a promotion strategy, such as determining what kind of coupons should be distributed as the content information 20b.

[0195] In this embodiment, the server 10 acquires and records the location / time information 113a, which indicates both the location and time when the secondary content ID 101a was acquired, together with the secondary content ID 101a from the second terminal device 32. This configuration makes it possible to confirm the effectiveness of content information distribution, such as the location and time when the user of the second terminal device 32 visited the store when the secondary content ID 101a was acquired, which can be useful for planning an advertising strategy, etc.

[0196] Furthermore, according to the grouping of this embodiment, the terminal device can perform grouping by issuing a group ID based on the strength and continuity of the grouping signal broadcast to other devices, and the group approval request and approval response to the other devices. It is also possible to have other devices perform grouping based on the broadcast of the grouping signal broadcast by the terminal device and the approval response to the group approval request from the other devices. In other words, according to this embodiment, multiple terminal devices 30 can freely perform grouping without the need for a specific parent device or the like. Thus, this embodiment relates to free and simple grouping of multiple terminal devices 30.

[0197] In this embodiment, when one terminal device 30 acquires the primary content ID 20a and secondary content ID 101a related to the specific store SH1, group information indicating that a group is formed is sent to the server 10. Then, this one terminal device 30 acquires the content information 20b of the specific store SH1 and benefit information related to benefits related to group use from the server 10. This configuration is preferable because it allows the terminal device 30 to obtain benefit information related to benefits related to group use according to the group configuration.

[0198] In this embodiment, the group ID is the numbered ID described above that identifies the group and also identifies the devices that make up the group. The grouping signal distribution process shown in FIG. 21 distributes the group ID as the device's own grouping signal if the device belongs to a group. Furthermore, if the device does not belong to a group, the process distributes the individual ID 30a that identifies the device as the device's own grouping signal. When grouping is performed by the terminal device 30, group candidates are set and group IDs are issued according to the type of other-device grouping signal acquired from the other devices. This configuration allows for more flexible grouping, such as setting up a group of individual devices, adding a single device to a group, or setting up a larger group by combining groups, according to the type of grouping signal.

[0199] In this embodiment, when a member device that does not obtain a group ID of a predetermined strength or higher within a predetermined time is removed from the group, a confirmation request confirming the presence of the member device is sent to all member devices in the group. Furthermore, if no confirmation response is received from any member device, the member device is removed from the group. This configuration allows for efficient removal from the group via the group ID in cases such as when a user of a member device physically leaves the group. Furthermore, by sending a confirmation request for presence confirmation to all member devices in the group, if a user of a member device happens to be far away without intending to leave the group, other members of the member devices who notice this can return confirmation responses on their behalf. Thus, the above configuration allows for efficient and flexible removal of a member device from a group.

[0200] In this embodiment, when a member device is removed from a group, the group ID of that group is discarded. Furthermore, if there are other members in the group besides the own device, a new group ID is issued to identify a new group excluding the one member device. This configuration allows for flexible group management, such as dissolving the group or establishing a new group with the remaining members depending on whether there are other members in the group besides the own device when a member device leaves.

[0201] Furthermore, according to the server-side content distribution in this embodiment, as described above, group benefit information relating to benefits related to group use can be provided from the server 10 to the terminal device 30 together with the content information 20b. In other words, according to this embodiment, the content information 20b can be distributed in accordance with the grouping in the terminal device 30. In this respect, too, this embodiment relates to free grouping of multiple terminal devices 30.

[0202] Furthermore, according to the server-side content distribution in this embodiment, the second terminal device 32 acquires additional information 111a along with the content information 20b. This additional information 111a allows the user of the second terminal device 32 to understand what kind of user the user of the first terminal device 31 associated with the content information 20b is. It is also possible to understand the situation, such as how often the user uses the store SH in the content information 20b. The various situations understood from the additional information 111a provide the user of the second terminal device 32 with effective information for selecting a store. In this way, according to this embodiment, content distribution that is effective for selecting a store can be performed. In other words, this embodiment relates to content distribution that can be effectively used for selecting a store.

[0203] In this embodiment, when the server 10 acquires store visit information of a visiting user from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1, the stored contents of the past user information 107a and store usage history information 108a are updated based on the store visit information. According to this configuration, the stored contents of the user information 107a and store usage history information 108a are updated every time various users visit the specific store SH1, so that content distribution that can be more effectively used for store selection can be performed.

[0204] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the server 10 identifies the user of the first terminal device 31 based on the secondary content ID 101a, and generates additional information 111a related to the user. Then, the generated additional information 111a is sent to the second terminal device 32 together with the content information 20b. According to this configuration, the additional information 111a related to the user of the first terminal device 31 who triggered the second terminal device 32 to acquire the content information 20b is attached to the content information 20b sent by the server 10 to the second terminal device 32. This enables content distribution that can be more effectively utilized for selecting a store.

[0205] In this embodiment, the second terminal device 32 acquires the content ID distributed by broadcast from the first terminal device 31. Then, the content information 20b is attached with additional information 111a and sent by unicast from the server 10 to the second terminal device 32. According to this configuration, the information distributed by broadcast from the first terminal device 31 to an unspecified number of people is a secondary content ID 101a that does not have additional information 111a related to the individual user of the first terminal device 31. Then, such additional information 111a is sent to the second terminal device 32 by unicast with high confidentiality, making this embodiment suitable from the viewpoint of protecting personal information.

[0206] Furthermore, according to the terminal-side content acquisition in this embodiment, additional information 111a, which serves as effective information for selecting a store, is acquired in the second terminal device 32 together with the content information 20b. In this way, according to this embodiment, content acquisition that is effective for selecting a store can be performed. In other words, the terminal-side content acquisition in this embodiment relates to content distribution that can be effectively used for selecting a store.

[0207] Furthermore, according to the terminal-side content distribution in this embodiment, the secondary content ID 101a associated with the content information 20b can be distributed via the terminal device 30 carried by a user who moves around freely. Furthermore, the distribution of the secondary content ID 101a is appropriately performed based on the location and time of the terminal using distribution conditions previously acquired from the server 10, so that highly effective content distribution can be performed on the terminal side. Furthermore, by using the distribution conditions, content distribution can be performed with low power consumption without continuous distribution. Furthermore, by acquiring content information 20b via the secondary content ID 101a distributed from another device, highly effective content distribution can also be received. Thus, the terminal-side content distribution in this embodiment is related to highly effective content distribution.

[0208] Here, in this embodiment, when the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server 10, the location / time information 113a indicating both the location and time at which the secondary content ID 101a was acquired is attached and sent together. This configuration is preferable because it allows the server 10 to perform an effectiveness evaluation, such as whether the content information 20b based on the secondary content ID 101a acquired at what location and time on the terminal side was effectively utilized.

[0209] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the server 10 updates the distribution conditions based on the usage status of the specific store SH1 using the location / time information 113a and the content information 20b. Then, the secondary content ID 101a is distributed from the first terminal device 31 based on the distribution conditions updated in the server 10. This configuration is preferable because it allows the terminal side to distribute the secondary content ID 101a based on distribution conditions with high accuracy in terms of effectiveness.

[0210] Furthermore, according to the server-side content distribution in this embodiment, the distribution conditions for appropriate distribution to the first terminal device 31, which is the distributor of the secondary content ID 101a, are set by the server 10 and sent to the first terminal device 31. As a result, the first terminal device 31 appropriately distributes the secondary content ID 101a based on the distribution conditions. As a result, the second terminal device 32 acquires the content information 20b via such secondary content ID 101a, enabling highly effective content distribution. In this way, the server-side content distribution in this embodiment relates to highly effective content distribution.

[0211] In this embodiment, the server 10 updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information 113a related to the acquisition of the secondary content ID 101a in the second terminal device 32 and the store visit information of the user of the second terminal device 32. According to this configuration, the acquisition location and acquisition time of the secondary content ID 101a when the user of the second terminal device 32 visits the store and effectively uses the content information 20b are reflected in the distribution conditions at any time, thereby enabling more effective content distribution.

[0212] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but includes other configurations that can achieve the object of the present invention, and the following modifications are also included in the present invention.

[0213] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the first terminal device 31 distributes the secondary content ID 101a acquired from the server 10 starting from the primary content ID 20a distributed by the store terminal device 20. However, the starting point for acquiring the secondary content identification information in the first terminal device is not limited to the primary content identification information from the store terminal device. For example, the store terminal device may not distribute the primary content identification information, but may send the secondary content identification information to the first terminal device based on store visit information when the user of the first terminal device randomly visits the store, or when the number of visits exceeds a predetermined number. Furthermore, the starting point may be the use of a coupon acquired from a homepage or the like, rather than the primary content ID 20a acquired from the store terminal device. In other words, the content information indicated by the primary content ID and the secondary content ID may not be the same.

[0214] In the above-described embodiment, the individual ID 30a and the group ID are given as examples of the grouping signal for grouping. However, the grouping signal is not limited to these, and any specific signal form is acceptable as long as it is a signal that can be used for grouping and identifies the device itself.

[0215] In the above-described embodiment, an example is given in which an approval response for grouping is made in response to a user operation on the terminal device 30. Also, an example is given in which a confirmation request for removal from a group and a confirmation response thereto are made in response to a user operation on the terminal device 30. However, these processes are not limited to those made in response to a user operation, and may be made automatically on the terminal device 30.

[0216] In the above-described embodiment, the group information sent from the terminal device 30 to the server 10 is illustrated as an example so that the terminal device 30 can receive the group benefit information. However, the destination of the group information is not limited to the server, and it may be a store terminal device. In this case, the store terminal device may send the group information to the server.

[0217] In the above-described embodiment, the additional information 111a indicating the gender, age group, and number of visits to the store is exemplified as the additional information attached to the content information 20b, but the additional information is not limited to this. The additional information may be any specific information as long as it is based on at least one of the user information and the store usage history information.

[0218] In the above-described embodiment, the conditions relating to both the distribution area 112a and the distribution time 112b are exemplified as the distribution conditions for the secondary content ID 101a. However, the distribution conditions are not limited to this, and any conditions relating to at least one of the distribution area and the distribution time may be used. Furthermore, setting the distribution conditions is not essential, and the distribution conditions themselves may not be set. Furthermore, the first terminal may be configured to be able to arbitrarily set or change the distribution conditions.

[0219] In the above-described embodiment, the position / time information is exemplified as the position / time information 113a relating to both the position and the time. However, the position / time information is not limited to this, and may be information that represents at least one of the position and the time.

[0220] The store terminal device may be, for example, a beacon itself, or may include a beacon and a device that connects to a terminal or server that controls the beacon.

[0221] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the store was described as being the same store (same store terminal device), but it is not limited to being the same store if the same content information such as coupons can be used, for example, in chain stores or affiliated stores.

[0222] In the above-described embodiment, whether or not to broadcast the secondary content ID is determined based on the distribution conditions, but this may be controlled by a distribution ON / OFF switch provided in the distribution application. In this case, a timer function may be provided that can set the time arbitrarily, such as turning OFF after one hour of distribution from ON.

[0223] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the benefits are coupons and points related to the store, but coupons, points, and services that are not directly related to the store may also be provided.

[0224] Furthermore, the distribution conditions may be set arbitrarily if you want to expand the distribution area or change the effective area or time for an event, etc. In this case, you can check the effectiveness of the distribution based on the settings from the history information.

[0225] Furthermore, when updating the distribution area, it is possible to periodically expand the area outward by a predetermined distance, or if a highly effective area exists at the edge of the distribution area, to expand that area outward. By repeating the expansion and narrowing processes, it is possible to determine a distribution area that is more suited to the highly effective area.

[0226] It is also possible to set in advance an upper limit on the number of coupons to be distributed or used as secondary content. In this case, the server counts the number of distributions or uses from history information, and when the upper limit is reached, it sends information to stop distribution to the first terminal device. Alternatively, distribution stop information may be sent together with an inquiry from the first terminal device about updating the distribution conditions. When a content request is made from the second terminal device while the upper limit has been reached, information notifying that the upper limit has been reached is sent, and the second terminal device deletes the corresponding content ID upon receiving the information.

[0227] Furthermore, the division of functions between the server and the terminal device explained in the above embodiment is merely an example, and specific functions can be partially or entirely replaced based on common technical knowledge. [Explanation of symbols]

[0228] 1. Information distribution system 10 Servers 20 Store terminal equipment 20a Primary Content ID 20b Content Information 30 Terminal Equipment 30a Individual ID 31 First terminal device 32 Second terminal device 100 Server-side content distribution device 101,322 Secondary Content ID Sending Department 101a Secondary Content ID 102 Secondary Content Delivery Department 103 Bonus Delivery Department 104 Primary Content Delivery Department 105 Judgment processing unit 106 Group Benefit Generation Department 107 User information storage unit 107a User Information 108 Store usage history memory unit 108a Store usage history information 108b Store Information 108c Basic information 108d Update Information 109 Information Memory 110 Update processing section 111 Additional information generation unit 111a Additional Information 112 Condition setting section 112a, 112a-2, 112a-3 Distribution area 112a-1 Circular area 112b Delivery Time 112b-1 Daytime broadcast time 112b-2 Nighttime broadcast times 112c Effectiveness 113 Position / time acquisition section 113a Location / time information 114 Store Visit Information Acquisition Department 114a Visit Information 201 Primary Content ID Sending Department 202 Store visit information generation unit 203 Store Visit Information Sending Department 310 Terminal side content distribution device 311 Primary Content Acquisition Department 312 Secondary Content ID Acquisition Unit 313 Secondary Content ID Distribution Department 314,323,337 Secondary Content Acquisition Department 320 Content Acquisition Device 321 Secondary Content ID Acquisition Unit 322 Secondary Content ID Sending Department 330 Grouping Device 331 Grouping Signal Distribution Unit 332 Group candidate setting section 333 Group ID Issuance Department 334 Received Data Memory 335 Group Memory 336 Approval Reply Section 338 Group Exclusion Settings 339 Confirmation Reply Section SH Store SH1 Specific Store

Claims

1. On the computer, a content identification information acquisition process for acquiring content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server together with distribution conditions relating to both a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information; a content identification information distribution process for broadcasting the content identification information when the location and time of the own device satisfy the distribution condition; a content acquisition process in which, when content identification information distributed by another device is acquired, the acquired content identification information is sent to the server together with location / time information indicating both the location and the time when the content identification information was acquired, and content information associated with the content identification information is acquired; Execute the server updates the distribution conditions based on the usage status of the specific store using the location / time information and the content information; The terminal-side content distribution program, wherein the content identification information distribution process is a process of distributing the content identification information based on the distribution conditions that are updated in the server.

2. A storage medium characterized by storing a terminal-side content distribution program described in claim 1.

3. a content identification information acquisition step of acquiring content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server together with distribution conditions relating to both a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information; a content identification information distribution step of broadcasting the content identification information when the location and time of the device itself satisfy the distribution conditions; a content acquisition step of, when acquiring content identification information distributed by another device, sending the acquired content identification information to the server together with location / time information indicating both the location and the time when the content identification information was acquired, and acquiring content information associated with the content identification information; Equipped with the server updates the distribution conditions based on the usage status of the specific store using the location / time information and the content information; The terminal-side content distribution method, wherein the content identification information distribution step is a step of distributing the content identification information based on the distribution conditions that are updated in the server.

4. A content identification information acquisition unit that acquires content identification information associated with content information of a specific store from a server together with distribution conditions relating to both a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information; a content identification information distribution unit that distributes the content identification information to other devices by broadcast when the location and time of the device itself satisfy the distribution conditions; a content acquisition unit, when acquiring content identification information distributed by the other device, sending the content identification information to the server together with location / time information indicating both the location and the time when the content identification information was acquired, and acquiring content information associated with the content identification information; Equipped with the server updates the distribution conditions based on the usage status of the specific store using the location / time information and the content information; The terminal-side content distribution device, wherein the content identification information distribution unit distributes the content identification information based on the distribution conditions that are updated in the server.

5. A computer, a condition setting process for setting distribution conditions regarding both a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store; a content identification information sending process for sending the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device; a content sending process for, when acquiring the content identification information from the second terminal device, sending content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device; a location / time acquisition process for acquiring, from the second terminal device, location / time information indicating both the location and the time at which the second terminal device acquired the content identification information; a store visit information acquisition process for acquiring store visit information representing a store visit of the user of the second terminal device from the store terminal device of the specific store; Execute The server-side content distribution program, wherein the condition setting process is a process of updating the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information.

6. A storage medium characterized by storing the server-side content distribution program described in claim 5.

7. A condition setting step of setting distribution conditions regarding both a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store; a content identification information sending step of sending the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device; a content sending step of, when acquiring the content identification information from the second terminal device, sending content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device; a location / time acquisition step of acquiring, from the second terminal device, location / time information indicating both the location and the time at which the second terminal device acquired the content identification information; a store visit information acquisition step of acquiring store visit information representing a store visit of the user of the second terminal device from the store terminal device of the specific store; Equipped with The server-side content distribution method, wherein the condition setting step is a step of updating the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information.

8. A condition setting unit that sets distribution conditions regarding both a distribution area and a distribution time of content identification information associated with content information of a specific store; a content identification information sending unit that sends the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device; a content sending unit that, upon receiving the content identification information from the second terminal device, sends content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device; a location / time acquisition unit that acquires, from the second terminal device, location / time information that indicates both the location and the time at which the second terminal device acquired the content identification information; a store visit information acquisition unit that acquires store visit information representing a store visit of the user of the second terminal device from the store terminal device of the specific store; Equipped with The server-side content distribution device is characterized in that the condition setting unit is a part that updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information.

9. A server-side content distribution device provided in the server, which transmits content identification information associated with content information of a specific store together with distribution conditions relating to both a distribution area and a distribution time of the content identification information; a terminal-side content distribution device provided in each of a plurality of terminal devices, which acquires the content identification information sent from the server-side content distribution device together with the distribution conditions, and distributes the content identification information to other devices by broadcast based on the distribution conditions; The server-side content distribution device a condition setting unit that sets the distribution conditions; a content identification information sending unit that sends the content identification information together with the distribution conditions to a first terminal device among the plurality of terminal devices; a content sending unit that, when acquiring the content identification information from a second terminal device among the plurality of terminal devices, sends the content information associated with the content identification information to the second terminal device; a location / time acquisition unit that acquires, from the second terminal device, location / time information that indicates both the location and the time at which the second terminal device acquired the content identification information; a store visit information acquisition unit that acquires store visit information representing a store visit of the user of the second terminal device from the store terminal device of the specific store; Equipped with The terminal-side content distribution device of each of the plurality of terminal devices a content identification information acquisition unit that acquires the content identification information together with the distribution conditions from the server, using the device itself as the first terminal device; a content identification information distribution unit that distributes the content identification information to other devices by broadcast when the location and time of the device itself satisfy the distribution conditions; a content acquisition unit, when acquiring content identification information distributed by the other device, using the device as the second terminal device to send the acquired content identification information to the server together with the location / time information, and acquire the content information associated with the content identification information; Equipped with the condition setting unit of the server-side content distribution device is a unit that updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information and the store visit information, A content distribution system, wherein the content identification information distribution unit of the terminal-side content distribution device is a part that distributes the content identification information based on the distribution conditions that are updated in the condition setting unit.

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