Information processing device, information processing system, information processing method and program

Abstract

An information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program are provided. [Solution] The payment server comprises a memory for storing instructions and at least one processor, and the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to display a code screen 59 on the display of the terminal device, the code screen 59 including a first area 100 and a second area 200 for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information from each other, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen 59, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area 100, and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area 200.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, electronic payment services such as code payments have become widely available. Users who use electronic payment services typically install a payment application (hereinafter simply referred to as an "app") provided by an electronic payment service provider on their terminal device. Payment apps are generally configured to display a one-time code for payment on the display of the terminal device.

[0003] Electronic payment services are often linked to point programs. Point programs are loyalty programs that award users points based on transaction amounts and provide them with benefits according to the number of points they have earned. Users who use point programs often install a point app on their terminal devices to manage their points.

[0004] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a payment app and a point app may be installed separately on a single terminal device. Alternatively, the payment app may have a point management function. The point management function of the payment app and the point app are generally configured to display an identification code for identifying the user on the display of the terminal device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-093755 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Payment apps are provided by multiple different businesses. Similarly, point apps are also provided by multiple different businesses. Therefore, multiple payment apps are installed on a terminal device of a user who uses multiple payment services. Similarly, multiple point apps are installed on a terminal device of a user who uses multiple point services. In this case, each time a user makes a payment, the user must sequentially launch the desired point app and the desired payment app and perform an operation to display the corresponding code.

[0007] For example, a user may launch a points app before making a payment, and after the code of the points app is read, launch a payment app to make a code payment. This operation of sequentially selecting and displaying a desired app from multiple apps is a burden on the user, which is an issue.

[0008] This issue can arise not only in electronic payments that use both a payment app and a points app, but also in cases where multiple codes are submitted sequentially. Therefore, improvements in operability when submitting multiple codes sequentially are desired.

[0009] The present disclosure aims to provide an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program that can improve operability when presenting multiple codes sequentially. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a memory for storing instructions and at least one processor, and the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to display a code screen on a display of a terminal device, the code screen including a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information from each other, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area.

[0011] An information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a terminal device having a display and one or more servers configured to communicate with the terminal device, wherein one or more of the one or more servers and the terminal devices have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display, the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area.

[0012] An information processing method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes at least one processor displaying a code screen on a display of a terminal device, the code screen including a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information from each other, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area.

[0013] A program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a program for causing at least one processor to display a code screen on a display of a terminal device, the code screen including a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information from each other, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a first code screen displayed on the display of the terminal device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a change in the attitude of the terminal device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the second code screen transitioned from the first code screen of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for displaying the first code screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for transitioning from the first code screen to the second code screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a first code screen according to a modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the second code screen transitioned from the first code screen of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a second code screen according to a further modification, which is a transition from the first code screen of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] 1 to 9, examples of an information processing device, an information processing system 11, an information processing method, and a program will be described. The present invention is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. Furthermore, numerals such as "first" and "second" used in the following description are used to distinguish the components to which they are attached, and are not used to rank the components.

[0016] [Outline of information processing system] The information processing system 11 shown in Fig. 1 includes one or more information processing devices. The information processing device may be, for example, a server. Below, a case will be described in which the information processing system 11 includes a single information processing device, a payment server 20. However, the information processing system 11 may also include multiple payment servers 20 each managed by a plurality of different businesses. The payment server 20 provides an electronic payment service that enables users to make payments at stores.

[0017] The information processing system 11 may include multiple point servers 30 managed by different businesses. Each point server 30 is configured to provide a point service. A point program may be available only at a single store or affiliated stores, or may be a multi-point program to which multiple stores belong. Unless otherwise specified, the following description will be given assuming that the information processing system 11 includes one point server 30.

[0018] The information processing system 11 may include multiple service servers 40 managed by multiple different businesses. The service server 40 may be configured to issue coupons that can be used at the time of payment, for example. However, coupons issued by the service server 40 are not limited to discount coupons, and may also be coupons used as reservation tickets, admission tickets, or numbered tickets, for example. Unless otherwise specified, the following description will be given assuming that the information processing system 11 includes one service server 40.

[0019] The information processing system 11 may include one or more terminal devices 50. Each terminal device 50 is operated by a user. The payment server 20, the point server 30, and the service server 40 are each configured to communicate with one or more terminal devices 50 via a network. The following description will be given using a mode in which one terminal device 50 communicates with one payment server 20. The electronic payment in this example is code payment.

[0020] The payment server 20 is configured to issue a payment code 301 used for electronic payment to the terminal device 50. The point server 30 is configured to issue a point code 201 used for using a point service to the terminal device 50. The service server 40 is configured to issue a coupon code 101 for identifying a coupon to the terminal device 50.

[0021] The information processing system 11 may include a plurality of store terminals 60 installed in a plurality of stores, respectively. Each of the payment server 20, the point server 30, and the service server 40 is configured to communicate with one or more store terminals 60 via a network. The following description uses an example in which one store terminal 60 communicates with one payment server 20.

[0022] The payment server 20 may be realized as a computer including, for example, at least one processor 21, at least one memory 22, and a communication IF 23. The following describes a case where the payment server 20 includes one processor 21 and one memory 22. The communication IF 23 enables communication with other devices via a network.

[0023] The memory 22 stores a program 24 executed by the processor 21 and a database 25. The database 25 stores store information for each of a plurality of stores affiliated with the payment service, and user information for each of a plurality of users registered with the payment service. The program 24 includes an application and an operating system. The processor 21 performs various functions by executing processes based on the program 24. For example, the processor 21 performs user authentication based on the user information and generates a payment code 301 for the authenticated user.

[0024] The point server 30 may be realized as a computer including at least one processor 31, at least one memory 32, and a communication IF 33, similar to the payment server 20. Below, a case where the point server 30 includes one processor 31 and one memory 32 will be described.

[0025] The memory 32 stores a program 34 executed by the processor 31 and a database 35. The database 35 stores store information for each of a plurality of stores participating in the point program, and user information for each of a plurality of users registered in the point program. The processor 31 performs, for example, user authentication based on the user information and generation of a point code 201 for the authenticated user.

[0026] Like the payment server 20, the service server 40 may be realized as a computer including at least one processor 41, at least one memory 42, and a communication IF 43. Below, a case where the service server 40 includes one processor 41 and one memory 42 will be described.

[0027] The memory 42 stores a program 44 executed by the processor 41 and a database 45. The database 45 stores store information relating to each of a plurality of stores that provide the corresponding service, and user information relating to each of a plurality of users who have registered to use the service. The processor 41 performs, for example, user authentication based on the user information and generates a coupon code 101 for the authenticated user.

[0028] [Store terminal overview] The store terminal 60 may be installed in a store or may be mounted on a mobile object such as a taxi or a mobile sales vehicle. Each store terminal 60 may be a POS (Point of Sales) cash register or a portable device such as a PC or tablet on which payment software is installed.

[0029] The store terminal 60 may be realized as a computer including, for example, at least one processor 61, at least one memory 62, and a communication IF 63. The following describes a case where the store terminal 60 includes one processor 61 and one memory 62. The communication IF 63 enables communication with other devices via a network.

[0030] A code scanner 68 capable of reading various codes may be connected to the store terminal 60. Alternatively, the store terminal 60 may be equipped with the code scanner 68. A store code 69 for identifying the store terminal 60 or the corresponding store may be assigned to the store terminal 60. The store code 69 may be a two-dimensional code such as a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark), but is not limited to these.

[0031] Code payment can be performed by a store scan method in which the store terminal 60 scans various codes displayed on the display 57 of the terminal device 50, or by a user scan method in which the terminal device 50 scans the store code 69. At the store, a cashier who is a store staff member may scan the code, or the user may operate the store terminal 60 installed at the self-checkout and scan the code displayed on the terminal device 50 carried by the user. In the store scan method, the payment server 20 performs payment processing in response to a payment request sent from the store terminal 60. In the user scan method, the payment server 20 performs payment processing in response to a payment request sent from the terminal device 50.

[0032] [Terminal device overview] The terminal device 50 may be realized as a computer including, for example, at least one processor 51, at least one memory 52, and a communication IF 53. In the following, a case will be described in which the terminal device 50 includes one processor 51 and one memory 52. ​​The communication IF 53 enables communication with other devices via a network. The memory 52 stores a program 54 executed by the processor 51. The program 54 includes an application and an operating system. The processor 51 executes processing based on the program 54 to realize various functions.

[0033] The terminal device 50 may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet, or may be a wearable device such as a smart watch. The terminal device 50 includes a display 57, which is an output device. The display 57 may include a touch panel 58, which is an input device.

[0034] The program 54 includes one or more applications (hereinafter referred to as "apps"). The one or more apps may include at least one of a pre-installed app, a native app, or a web app. A pre-installed app is pre-installed when the terminal device 50 is purchased. A native app is installed on the terminal device 50 from an app store by a user operation. A web app runs on a browser when launched on the terminal device 50. A user operates these apps to use services provided through the apps.

[0035] For example, a payment app for using an electronic payment service may be installed by the user in terminal device 50. The payment app includes multiple program codes (instructions) included in program 54. When the payment app is installed in terminal device 50, an icon (not shown) for launching the payment app is displayed on display 57.

[0036] When the user operates (e.g., taps) the icon, the payment app is launched. The app is not limited to icon operation, but may be launched by any operation such as voice input, button operation, or shaking (shaking the terminal 50), or may be launched automatically under specific conditions (e.g., approaching a cash register).

[0037] [Multi-code display function] The function of displaying code screen 59 on display 57 is referred to as the screen display function, and the program instructions for realizing the screen display function are referred to as the screen display program code. The function of displaying multiple codes on code screen 59 is referred to as the code display function, and the program instructions for realizing the code display function are referred to as the code display program code. Furthermore, the function of transitioning the display state of codes is referred to as the display transition function, and the program instructions for realizing the display transition function are referred to as the display transition program code.

[0038] The screen display function, code display function, and display transition function are collectively referred to as the multi-code display function. A plurality of program instructions for realizing the multi-code display function are collectively referred to as the multi-code display program.

[0039] The multi-code display program is included in either the program 24 of the server (payment server 20 in this example), which is an information processing device, or the payment app of the terminal device 50, or is distributed across more than one of them. Which memory 22, 52 stores which program code can be changed as desired depending on the type or design of the app (e.g., native app or web app). In other words, one or more of the one or more servers and terminal devices 50, which are information processing devices, have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen 59 on a display 57. In this case, at least a portion of the processing to be performed may be performed by a circuit such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), rather than based on program code.

[0040] For example, the program 24 of the payment server 20 and the payment app of the terminal device 50 are executed by the processors 21 and 51, respectively, to cooperate with each other to display the code screen 59 and transition the display state of the code screen 59. In one example, the screen display program code may be executed mainly by the processor 51, and the code display program code and the display transition program code may be executed mainly by the processor 21, but this is not limited to this. For convenience, the multi-code display function will be described below assuming that the multi-code display program is executed by the payment app.

[0041] The code screen 59 includes a plurality of display areas for displaying a plurality of (two or more) codes each containing different information. In this example, the code screen 59 includes three display areas (first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300), but the number of display areas may be two, four, or more.

[0042] The multiple codes may be, for example, barcodes or two-dimensional codes, but are not limited to these. The multiple codes include a coupon code 101, a point code 201, and a payment code 301 displayed in the first area 100, the second area 200, and the third area 300, respectively, but the number and types of codes displayed can be changed as desired.

[0043] When three codes are displayed on the code screen 59, they may be two point codes 201 and one payment code 301 (see the example in FIG. 7). The two point codes 201 may be, for example, a point code of the store where the payment is made (referred to as a "first point code") and a point code of a multi-point program (referred to as a "second point code").

[0044] When two codes are displayed on the code screen 59, they may be a point code 201 and a payment code 301, or they may be two payment codes 301 provided by different businesses, or they may be two point codes 201 provided by different businesses.

[0045] One display area (e.g., third area 300) may display different types of codes (e.g., a barcode and a two-dimensional code) containing the same information. A barcode and a two-dimensional code containing the same information may be generated, for example, by encoding a multi-digit number using different methods. Third area 300 may display the two codes together with the number before encoding.

[0046] The first area 100, the second area 200, and the third area 300 may each display a character string indicating the name or description of the code to be displayed. In this example, the character string 102 in the first area 100 is "Coupon Code," the character string 202 in the second area 200 is "Point Card," and the character string 302 in the third area 300 is "Code QR Payment" or "Code Payment." Note that in Figure 6 and subsequent figures, the QR code in the third area 300 is not shown, and the character string 302 is replaced with "Code Payment."

[0047] The multiple codes are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen 59. The identification code is coded information for identifying at least one of the electronic processing, the user, or the store, and is issued by a corresponding server as, for example, a one-time code. The identification code is not limited to a one-time code, and may be, for example, a permanent code for identifying the user.

[0048] For example, when a user uses a coupon to make an electronic payment at a store, the coupon code 101 containing information about the coupon is read by the code scanner 68. Also, when the store offers a point service, the point code 201 issued by the point server 30 is read by the code scanner 68. Then, the payment code 301 issued by the payment server 20 is read by the code scanner 68, and the electronic payment is made.

[0049] The order in which these multiple codes are read may be preset according to the specifications of the corresponding process or server (e.g., payment server 20) or for each store. Therefore, if multiple codes are displayed on one code screen 59, the store cashier may read the codes in the wrong order and may not be able to process the transaction properly.

[0050] Therefore, the payment app displays the code that should be read first among the multiple codes in a readable normal display according to the set reading order, while displaying the code that should be read later (last) in an unreadable non-normal display. Hereinafter, the code in normal display will be referred to as the first code, and the code in non-normal display will be referred to as the second code. The first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes that should be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen 59. The code screen 59 may include multiple first codes or multiple second codes.

[0051] In the example code screen 59 shown in Fig. 2, a coupon code 101, which is a first code, is displayed in a first area 100, a point code 201, which is a second code, is displayed in a second area 200, and a payment code 301, which is another second code, is displayed in a third area 300. It is possible to arbitrarily set which code is displayed in which display area. The arrangement of the multiple display areas is not limited to vertical, but may also be horizontal, or both vertical and horizontal.

[0052] The non-normal display may be, for example, a display in which at least a part of the second code (point code 201 and payment code 301 in FIG. 2) is processed in the following ways, but the processing methods are not limited to these. The processing is what is called masking processing for masking purposes. The non-normal display can also be said to be a masked display in which at least a part of the code is masked.

[0053] 1) Displaying at least a portion of the second code in a blurred manner 2) Displaying at least part of the second code in gray 3) Display in which at least part of the second code is hidden 4) A resized display of at least a portion of the second code. 5) Display of the second code replaced with another image or other characters The processing methods 1) to 5) above may be used in combination for one second code, or different processing methods may be used for multiple second codes. The processing may be applied to the entire second code, or both the barcode and two-dimensional code in one display area may be processed together, as in the case of payment code 301 in Fig. 2. When the entire second code is hidden, the code itself is not displayed in the corresponding display area, but the character strings 202 and 302 make it possible to determine what code the hidden second code is.

[0054] [Display transition function] The payment app may use a display transition function to transition the display state of the code on code screen 59. For example, if code screen 59 in FIG. 2 is the first code screen, code screen 59 in FIG. 1 is the initial code screen. On the initial code screen, all codes may be displayed in normal display as shown in FIG. 1, or all codes may be displayed in non-normal display.

[0055] The payment app may display an initial code screen on display 57 in response to a start-up operation or automatic start-up of the payment app on terminal device 50, or a payment operation, and after displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of one or more initial transition conditions is met, transition the initial code screen to the first code screen. The payment operation may be, for example, an operation performed immediately before making a payment, such as tapping a payment button or a payment code display button on the payment app, but is not limited to this.

[0056] The one or more initial transition conditions may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following conditions: 1) After the initial waiting time (e.g., 1 to 10 seconds) 2) User execution of an operation 3) Change in the attitude of the terminal device 50 The user's operation for initial transition condition 2 may be, for example, a tap on the code to which the display is to be transitioned or on a display area including that code. In one example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, operation buttons 103, 203, and 303 for transitioning the display may be arranged in first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300, respectively. In this case, the display state may be changed by operation button 103 indicating a first code in normal display and operation buttons 203 and 303 indicating a second code in abnormal display.

[0057] The initial transition conditions 1 to 3 may be applied in combination. For example, the payment application may transition from the initial code screen to the first code screen if no operation of the operation buttons 103, 203, 303 is performed during the initial standby time or if no change in the posture of the terminal device 50 is detected.

[0058] 3, the change in attitude of the terminal device 50 in the initial transition condition 3 can be detected, for example, by a sensor 56 (for example, a gyroscope) built into the terminal device 50. The change in attitude may be caused by the terminal device 50 being shaken in any direction.

[0059] Regarding the change in posture, for example, the initial transition condition 3 may be satisfied when the posture is changed by a specified angle or more from the reference posture, where the posture when the initial code screen is displayed is taken as a reference posture. Alternatively, the initial transition condition 3 may be satisfied when the posture is tilted by a specified angle or more from the reference posture, where the posture when the flat portion (for example, display 57) is horizontal or vertical is taken as the reference posture.

[0060] Alternatively, initial transition condition 3 may be satisfied when display 57 changes from a position facing the user to an inclined position in which display 57 faces upward and toward the person the user is facing, as shown in FIG. 3. The inclination angle θ of the inclined position can be measured as the inclination of display 57 with respect to the horizontal. In the case of a human-operated cash register, the inclination angle θ may be, for example, between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, but in cases such as when code scanner 68 of a self-checkout register has a vertical reading surface (light exit window), the inclination angle θ may be 90 degrees or greater.

[0061] The tilted position is the position in which the user shows the code to a store cashier for code scanning. In this case, after visually viewing the initial code screen, the user turns the display 57 toward the cashier or the code scanner 68 at the self-checkout counter, and the initial code screen automatically transitions to the first code screen. Therefore, on the first code screen, the code scanner 68 reads the first code out of the multiple codes.

[0062] After displaying the first code screen, the payment app may transition from the first code screen to a second code screen if at least one of one or more display transition conditions is met. The one or more display transition conditions may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following conditions:

[0063] 1) The specified time has elapsed 2) User execution of an operation 3) Change in the attitude of the terminal device 50 4) Reading the first code Display transition conditions 1 to 3 are the same as initial transition conditions 1 to 3. Furthermore, display transition conditions 1 to 3 may be applied in combination, similar to initial transition conditions 1 to 3.

[0064] 4, the second code screen may include a first area 100 in which the first code (coupon code 101) has transitioned from normal display to non-normal display, and a second area 200 in which the second code (point code 201) has transitioned from non-normal display to normal display. That is, on the second code screen, the first code that was normally displayed on the first code screen has transitioned to non-normal display, and at the same time, the second code that was normally displayed has transitioned to normal display.

[0065] When the first code screen includes multiple second codes (point code 201 and payment code 301 in FIG. 2), the payment app may transition one of the multiple second codes on the first code screen (point code 201) to normal display on the second code screen, as shown in FIG. 4, and leave the remaining second codes (payment code 301) in non-normal display.

[0066] In this case, after the second code screen is displayed, if at least one of the one or more display transition conditions is met, the second code screen may be transitioned to a third code screen (not shown). On this third code screen, the remaining second code (payment code 301) on the second code screen transitions from a non-normal display to a normal display, and at the same time, the first code (point code 201) that was normally displayed on the second code screen transitions to the second code.

[0067] In this way, the payment app may transition the code screen multiple times by displaying one of the multiple codes normally and the remaining codes non-normally on the first code screen, and then sequentially displaying the remaining codes normally one by one. Then, after the first code on the last code screen is read, the payment app may transition the code screen to another screen (for example, a screen indicating completion of the corresponding electronic processing).

[0068] In a case where display transition condition 4 is met, for example, when the reading of coupon code 101, which is the first code on the first code screen, is executed or completed, the payment app transitions the read coupon code 101 on the second code screen to an unreadable, non-normal display, while transitioning the point code 201, which was in an non-normal display, to a readable, normal display.

[0069] With regard to "execution of reading of the first code," for example, display transition condition 4 is met when the terminal device 50 detects light emitted by the code scanner 68. With regard to "completion of reading of the first code," for example, display transition condition 4 is met when the terminal device 50 receives a completion notification indicating that reading has been completed from the payment server 20. The completion notification may be sent to the terminal device 50 not only from the payment server 20, but also from a server that performs the corresponding processing (for example, the point server 30 or the service server 40).

[0070] In one example, if the user does not want to use the coupon code 101 normally displayed on the first code screen, the user may operate the operation button 103 on the first code screen to transition the coupon code 101 to a non-normal display. The user may then change the orientation of the terminal device 50 so that the display 57 faces the cashier, thereby satisfying display transition condition 3. As a result, the second code screen, which has transitioned to a normal display in which the point code 201 can be read, is presented to the cashier.

[0071] As a result, the cashier will scan the only readable point code 201 on the second code screen. If a reading order is set for the point code 201 and the payment code 301, the payment code 301 that was displayed in an abnormal manner on the first code screen may remain displayed in an abnormal manner on the second code screen even if the operation button 303 is not operated.

[0072] This allows a store cashier to scan, for example, coupon code 101 on the first code screen, then scan point code 201 on the second code screen, and then scan payment code 301 on the third code screen without having to worry about which of multiple codes to scan. Alternatively, after scanning coupon code 101 and point code 201, if the user desires a different payment method, such as credit card payment or cash payment, the user can also terminate presentation of code screen 59.

[0073] On the first code screen, the first area may be positioned above the second area, and on the second code screen, the second area may be positioned above the first area. That is, when the code screen 59 transitions from the first code screen to the second code screen, not only the code display state but also the order of the code display areas may be changed (see a modification example described later with reference to Figures 7 and 8). In this case, on each code screen, the readable first code is positioned above the unreadable second code. This improves operability because the cashier only needs to always read the top code.

[0074] When the first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300 included in the code screen 59 are arranged in order from the top of the code screen 59, which of the multiple codes to assign to them can be determined based on, for example, the following information:

[0075] Example 1) Information about codes that can be used at stores Case 2) User information related to the user who uses the terminal device 50 Case 3) Store information related to stores (excluding information in Case 1) In Case 1, the payment app acquires store information related to a store stored in database 25 of payment server 20. This store information includes information about codes that can be used at the store. Then, the payment app sets the codes that can be used at the store as first codes or second codes according to the store information. In this case, the first code and second code are two of two or more codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store. The "usable codes" may be set for each type of code (for example, a coupon code, a point code, or a payment code).

[0076] For example, a payment app can display a first payment code provided by a first business operator (Company A) and a second payment code provided by a second business operator (Company B, different from Company A), but the first payment code can be used at a first store, but the second payment code cannot. In this case, the store information includes information indicating the "first payment code" as information related to usable payment codes.

[0077] Similarly, suppose that the payment app can display a first point code provided by a third business operator (Company C) and a second point code provided by a fourth business operator (Company D, different from Company C), but the first point code can be used but the second point code cannot be used at Store 1. In this case, the store information includes information indicating the "first point code" as information related to the usable point codes.

[0078] The payment app may, for example, identify the store where payment is to be made as the first store based on the location information of the terminal device 50 detected by the terminal device 50, and obtain store information for the first store from the database 25 of the payment server 20.

[0079] The store information may include the order in which the different types of codes are read at the first store, and the order in which the codes within each type are read. For example, the order in which the different types of codes are read at the store terminal 60 of the first store may be set as "1. Coupon code, 2. Point code, 3. Payment code." If the first store can award points from multiple businesses (e.g., both a third business and a fourth business) in a single payment, the order in which the different point codes are read (e.g., a first point code and a second point code) may be set.

[0080] If multiple codes of the same type, such as a first point code and a second point code, can be displayed on the code screen 59, the first point code and the second point code may be displayed in separate display areas (for example, the second area and the third area). In this case, if a reading order is set for codes of the same type, one of the multiple codes of the same type may be set as the first code, and the other two or more codes may be set as the second codes on each of the first code screen and the second code screen. Alternatively, if a reading order is not set for codes of the same type, multiple codes of the same type may be set as the first code on the first code screen. In this case, multiple readable first codes will be displayed on the first code screen, but no error will occur if there is no processing problem regardless of which code is read.

[0081] If multiple coupon codes 101, multiple point codes 201, or multiple payment codes 301 are available at the first store, multiple display areas (for example, three display areas: first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300) may be assigned as display areas for different types of codes (a coupon code area, a point code area, and a payment code area) instead of simultaneously displaying all codes on the code screen 59. In this case, the corresponding types of codes are displayed sequentially in each display area according to the set reading order.

[0082] For example, if a first point code is normally displayed as the first code in the second area 200 of the first code screen, a second point code is normally displayed as the first code in the second area 200 of the second code screen. The areas allocated to each type of code can be changed as desired. For example, if there is no coupon code 101, the first area 100 may be allocated as an area for point codes and the second area 200 may be allocated as an area for payment codes.

[0083] If no point code can be used at the first store, the point code 201 may be set as an unreadable second code on the first code screen and subsequent code screens (for example, the second and third code screens), or the display of the code itself may be omitted. In this case, no point code is assigned to the display area.

[0084] The "user information" in the above-mentioned case 2 may include, for example, the usage history of a plurality of point services of the corresponding user. The payment application may acquire the user information stored in the database 25 of the payment server 20.

[0085] In this case, the payment app may determine whether the usage record of each of the multiple point services satisfies a first predetermined condition based on the usage history. The "first predetermined condition" may be, for example, a condition based on a threshold related to the usage record of a certain point service, and "satisfying the first predetermined condition" may mean, for example, that a single user's usage record value of that point service is equal to or greater than the threshold. Conversely, "not satisfying the first predetermined condition" may mean that a single user's usage record value of that point service is less than the threshold. The usage record value may be an absolute value or a relative value compared to other services or other users.

[0086] Absolute usage history may include, but is not limited to, the number of points earned, the number of points used, the number of times earned, or the number of times used, or the frequency of point earning or point use, in a specified period (e.g., the most recent January, March, six months, or one year). Relative usage history may include, but is not limited to, the ratio of the number of points earned, the number of points used, the number of times earned, or the number of times used, or the frequency of point earning or point use, in a specified period, of one point service to another point service.

[0087] The usage history may include a point acquisition history or a point usage history for a specific store or campaign. For example, if the first predetermined condition is based on a threshold of the number of times points have been acquired at a certain store (which may include affiliated stores) in the last six months, the user does not satisfy the first predetermined condition if the number of times the user has acquired points at that store in the last six months is less than the threshold.

[0088] When a point service for which a user does not satisfy a first predetermined condition exists, the payment app may set the point code of the point service that does not satisfy the first predetermined condition as the first code or the second code for the user. When the point code that does not satisfy the first predetermined condition is set as the normally displayed first code, the user can be encouraged to use the point service that has not been used much.

[0089] When a point code that does not satisfy the first predetermined condition is set as the non-normally displayed second code, a point code that satisfies the first predetermined condition may be set as the first code, or another point code that does not satisfy the first predetermined condition but has a relatively high usage history, i.e., is frequently used by users, may be set as the first code. In another example, regardless of whether there is a point code that does not satisfy the first predetermined condition, a point code that satisfies the first predetermined condition or a point code with the highest usage history may be set as the first code. In this way, setting a point code with a relatively high usage history as the first code provides high convenience to users.

[0090] The "user information" in Case 2 may include, for example, the electronic payment history of the corresponding user for multiple electronic payment services. In this case, the payment app may determine whether the payment history for each of the multiple electronic payment services satisfies a second predetermined condition based on the electronic payment history. The "second predetermined condition" may be, for example, a condition based on a threshold related to the payment history of a certain electronic payment service, and "satisfying the second predetermined condition" may mean, for example, that a user's payment history value for that electronic payment service is equal to or greater than the threshold. Conversely, "not satisfying the second predetermined condition" may mean that a user's payment history value for that electronic payment service is less than the threshold. The payment history may be an absolute value or a relative value compared to other electronic payment services or other users.

[0091] Absolute payment performance may be, for example, the payment amount or number of payments in a specified period (e.g., the most recent one month, three months, six months, or one year). Relative payment performance may be, for example, the ratio of the payment amount or number of payments of one electronic payment service to another electronic payment service in a specified period.

[0092] The payment history may include payment history for a specific store or campaign. For example, if the second predetermined condition is based on a threshold of payment amount at a certain store (which may include affiliated stores) for the most recent six months, if the user's payment amount at that store for the most recent six months is less than the threshold, the user does not satisfy the second predetermined condition.

[0093] If there is an electronic payment service that does not satisfy the second predetermined condition, the payment app may set the payment code for the electronic payment service that does not satisfy the second predetermined condition as the first code or the second code. If a payment code that does not satisfy the second predetermined condition is set as the first code in normal display, the user can be encouraged to use an electronic payment service that has a low usage history. If a payment code that does not satisfy the second predetermined condition is set as the second code in abnormal display, another payment code that has a relatively high usage history, i.e., that the user frequently uses, can be set as the first code in normal display. This provides high convenience to the user.

[0094] The payment app may, in response to a user operation, set the code or type of code to be displayed in each of first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300. Additionally or alternatively, the payment app may, in response to a user operation, set a code (or type of code) to be the normally displayed first code and a code (or type of code) to be the non-normally displayed second code on at least one of the first code screen and the second code screen.

[0095] Such user settings (hereinafter simply referred to as "user settings") may be included in the user information. The user settings may include at least one of the number of display areas included in the code screen 59, whether or not there is an initial code screen, the display state of the code on the initial code screen (normal display or non-normal display), the initial transition conditions, or the display transition conditions. The user settings may also include a priority order for which code should be displayed preferentially between services of the same type (e.g., a first point service and a second point service).

[0096] When two or more codes that can be displayed on code screen 59 correspond to multiple services of the same type, the payment app may predetermine the priority order among services of the same type (e.g., point services). The types of services may be registered in database 25 in categories such as "coupon service," "point service," and "payment service."

[0097] The payment app can determine, based on information about available codes included in the store information, whether two or more codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the corresponding store include multiple codes of the same type available at the store (for example, multiple point codes for using multiple point services, respectively).If multiple codes of the same type are available at the store, the payment app may determine the priority order among the services of the same type based on at least one of other store information and user information.

[0098] Unlike the "predetermined reading order" described above, the priority is a display order that is set in consideration of store information or user information among multiple codes whose reading order can be changed without causing an error, or among multiple codes that are alternatively selected. The payment app may set the first and second codes on the first code screen and the first and second codes on the second code screen according to the priority order.

[0099] The "other store information" may be, for example, a priority order set in advance for each store, or information for determining the priority order. The priority order for each store may be, for example, determined by a store staff member or by the operator of the payment server 20, but is not limited to these. The information for determining the priority order may be, for example, the relationship between the store and a business operator that operates a corresponding service (e.g., a point service or an electronic payment service). This relationship may be a contractual relationship between the store and the business operator (including an affiliate or group company of the business operator).

[0100] Furthermore, if a certain type of service (e.g., a points service) is provided by the same business operator or a related business operator as another type of service (e.g., an electronic payment service), or if the two services are affiliated with each other, the priority order may be determined based on the relationship between the two services. For example, if a first payment code and a first point code are provided by the same business operator and the first payment code has a higher priority at a certain store, the first point code may be given a higher priority in the priority order of the points service. Specifically, if a certain store is affiliated with Company A, the coupon code, point code, and payment code provided by Company A may be given the highest priority.

[0101] The payment app may determine the priority based on both the store information and the user information. For example, if the user information includes a display priority set by the user, the payment app may determine the priority by prioritizing the priority set by the user over the priority based on the store information.

[0102] The priority of each user may be determined in advance by the payment server 20 and then registered in the database 25 as part of the user information. In this case, the payment server 20 may transmit user information including the priority registered in the database 25 to the terminal device 50 when the payment app is launched. In this manner, the payment app can determine the first code and the second code on the first and second code screens based on the priority received from the payment server 20. As an example, when the priority of multiple point services is determined based on at least one of the user information and the store information, one of the multiple point codes can be set as the first code or the second code according to the priority.

[0103] [How to display the code screen] With reference to Figure 5, an example of a method for displaying the first code screen will be described in which code screen 59 is used for electronic payment processing at a store as electronic processing. In this example store, coupon code 101 is not issued, point code 201 is displayed in the first area, and payment code 301 is displayed in the second area. In addition, the reading order is set so that point code 201 is read first, followed by payment code 301 during electronic payment processing.

[0104] First, in step S51, the user operates the terminal device 50 to activate the payment app. As a result, the payment app sends a code request including user data to the payment server 20. The code request may be sent to the payment server 20 not through the operation of launching the payment app but through the payment operation. The payment app may obtain the current location of the terminal device 50 in response to the launch operation or the payment operation. The code request may include location information indicating the current location of the terminal device 50. Upon receiving the code request, in step S11, the payment server 20 performs user authentication by comparing the user data included in the code request with the registered information in the database 45.

[0105] In step S12, the payment server 20 obtains the user information of the authenticated user from the database 25. If the code request includes location information indicating the current location, the payment server 20 searches the database 25 for a store based on the location information, and obtains the store information of the corresponding store in step S13. Steps S12 and S13 may be performed simultaneously or in reverse order.

[0106] In step S14, the payment server 20 performs display settings for the code screen 59 based on the user information and store information. The display settings include whether to display an initial code screen and the first and second codes on the first code screen. In this example, the initial code screen is not displayed, and the first code screen is displayed first, with the first code on the first code screen being the point code 201 and the second code being the payment code 301. Also in this example, the first code on the second code screen is the payment code 301 and the second code is the point code 201. The display settings include setting information regarding which code is to be displayed in which display area on each code screen.

[0107] In step S15, the payment server 20 generates a payment code 301 for the corresponding user. At this time, the payment server 20 may perform masking processing on the payment code 301 to generate a second code for non-normal display.

[0108] In step S16, the settlement server 20 transmits a code request including user data to the point server 30. Upon receiving the code request, the point server 30 performs user authentication in step S31 by comparing the user data included in the code request with the registered information in the database 35. When the user authentication is complete, the point server 30 generates a point code 201 for the corresponding user in step S32.

[0109] In step S33, the point server 30 transmits the point code 201 to the payment server 20. Upon receiving the point code 201, the payment server 20 may perform masking processing on the point code 201 to generate a second code for non-normal display. Note that the masking processing of the point code 201 may be performed by the point server 30.

[0110] In step S17, the payment server 20 transmits code screen display data to the terminal device 50. The code screen display data includes, for example, the point code 201, the masked point code 201, the payment code 301, the masked payment code 301, and display settings for the code screen.

[0111] When the terminal device 50 receives the code screen display data, in step S52 the payment application displays the first code screen on the display 57. Note that the masking of the code may be performed by the terminal device 50 that has received the code screen display data including the point code 201 and the payment code 301 prior to step S52.

[0112] Next, a method for transitioning from the first code screen to the second code screen will be described with reference to FIG. In step S52, the first code screen is displayed on the display 57 of the terminal device 50, and then in step S61, the store terminal 60 reads the point code 201 on the first code screen. In the following step S62, the store terminal 60 transmits a point processing request to the payment server 20. In addition, in step S18, the payment server 20 transmits the received point processing request to the point server 30. When the point server 30 receives the point processing request transmitted in step S18, in step S34, the point server 30 accepts the point processing.

[0113] Triggered by the transmission of the point processing request in step S18, the payment server 20 transmits an instruction to transition from the first code screen to the second code screen to the terminal device 50 in step S19. When the terminal device 50 receives the transition instruction from the payment server 20, in step S53 the payment app displays the second code screen on the display 57 based on the display settings. This causes the first code screen to transition to the second code screen. That is, the point code 201, which is the first code, transitions from normal display to non-normal display, and the payment code 301, which is the second code, transitions from non-normal display to normal display.

[0114] In step S63, the store terminal 60 reads the payment code 301 on the second code screen. In the following step S64, the store terminal 60 sends a payment processing request to the payment server 20. When the payment processing request is received, in step S20, the payment server 20 performs payment processing. Thereafter, in step S21, the payment server 20 sends payment information to the point server 30.

[0115] Upon receiving the payment information, the point server 30 performs point processing based on the payment information in step S35. In step S36, the point server 30 transmits the point processing result to the payment server 20. The point processing result may include, for example, the number of points awarded according to the payment amount, or the number of points used for payment.

[0116] When the payment server 20 receives the point processing result, in step S22, it transmits the processing result including the payment information to the terminal device 50. When the terminal device 50 receives the processing result, in step S54, the payment app displays a payment completion screen (not shown) on the display 57 of the terminal device 50.

[0117] [Effects of the present disclosure] When making an electronic payment, a user may use an electronically issued coupon or present a point code from a point program. For example, if a discount coupon is used, the payment amount changes when the coupon is used, so the user must present the coupon before making the payment. In addition, points from a point program may be used for payment or may be awarded before the payment, so the point code often needs to be presented before making the payment.

[0118] Generally, service apps for displaying coupon codes and point apps for displaying point codes are often separate apps from payment apps for displaying payment codes. Furthermore, point apps and payment apps are provided by multiple businesses. Therefore, when making payments at a store, users must launch multiple apps in a prescribed order and present the corresponding codes. Performing these operations in front of the cash register is hectic, and the order of presentation varies depending on the store, which is a burden for users.

[0119] Some payment apps can display a point code in addition to the payment code, but even in these apps, the payment code and point code are often displayed on separate screens that can be switched by operating tabs. Therefore, when making a payment, the user must present multiple different code screens in an order specified by each store.

[0120] To reduce this burden on users, it is possible to display multiple codes that should be read sequentially in the electronic processing of step 1 in a readable state, as in the initial code screen shown in Figure 1. However, in this case, the cashier must read multiple codes in the appropriate order, which places a heavy burden on the cashier, and errors can occur if the reading order is incorrect.

[0121] In this regard, the first code screen of the present disclosure displays the first code to be read among two or more codes in a readable normal display according to the set reading order, while the other codes are displayed in an unreadable non-normal state. Therefore, the user can check the multiple codes that can be presented by the electronic processing on the first code screen, and the cashier can scan the multiple codes sequentially without making any mistakes in the reading order.

[0122] For example, when a user launches a payment app for electronic payment at a store, a first code screen is displayed, which includes a first code (point code 201) in normal display and a second code (payment code 301) in abnormal display. After the point code 201 has been read, the first code screen transitions to a second code screen, and the payment code 301, which was in abnormal display, transitions to normal display so that it can be read, and at the same time, the point code 201, which was in normal display, transitions to abnormal display.

[0123] This allows the user to present the point code 201 and the payment code 301 in sequence without any special operation. As a result, the cashier can scan the point code 201 and the payment code 301 in sequence without making any mistakes in the reading order. Similarly, when the user scans the code themselves at a self-checkout, the user can scan the code without making any mistakes in the reading order.

[0124] [Effects of this disclosure] According to the present disclosure, the following effects can be achieved. (1) The first code and second code, which are to be read sequentially in accordance with electronic processing, are displayed on the first code screen, eliminating the need for the user to display multiple code screens. The first code screen displays the first code in a readable, normal display, and the second code in an unreadable, non-normal display. Therefore, the first code screen can prompt the user to read the first code in the normal display while making them aware that there is a second code to be read later. Therefore, even if multiple codes are displayed on a single code screen, misreading of the codes is reduced. This improves operability when multiple codes are presented sequentially.

[0125] (2) When there are one or more payment codes 301 that can be displayed on the code screen in connection with electronic payment and one or more point codes 201 for using a point service, at least two of these codes can be displayed on the first code screen. On the first code screen, one of the point code 201 and the payment code 301 is displayed in a readable normal display, and the other is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display. This allows the cashier to read the multiple codes on the first code screen in order, starting with the normally displayed code.

[0126] (3) On the first code screen, the code that should be read first among two or more codes according to the set reading order is displayed in normal display so that it can be read as the first code. Therefore, by displaying the second code screen and subsequent code screens that transition from the first code screen, two or more codes can be displayed in normal display according to the set reading order.

[0127] (4) By obtaining information about codes that can be used in a store, the first code and the second code can be set in an appropriate order for each store. (5) By determining the priority of multiple point services based on at least one of user information and store information, one of the multiple point services can be set to the first code or the second code according to the priority.

[0128] (6) By acquiring the user's usage history of multiple point services, it is possible to set one of the multiple point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history. For example, it is possible to determine whether the usage history of each of the multiple point services satisfies a first predetermined condition based on the usage history. Then, by setting the point code of a point service that does not satisfy the first predetermined condition as the first code, it is possible to promote the use of that point service. On the other hand, by setting the point code of a point service that satisfies the first predetermined condition as the first code, the point code that the user frequently uses is displayed readably first. This eliminates the need for the user to select a point code themselves.

[0129] (7) By acquiring the user's electronic payment history, it is possible to set the payment code as the first code or the second code based on the electronic payment history. For example, it is possible to determine whether the user's electronic payment usage history satisfies the second predetermined condition based on the electronic payment history. Then, by setting the payment code for a payment service that does not satisfy the second predetermined condition as the first code, it is possible to promote the use of that payment service. On the other hand, by setting the payment code for a payment service that satisfies the second predetermined condition as the first code, the payment code that the user frequently uses is displayed readably first. This eliminates the need for the user to select the payment code themselves.

[0130] (8) By masking at least a portion of a readable code, an unreadable second code can be generated. If multiple types of masking are selectable, different masking methods can be used for the multiple codes depending on the intended use or to distinguish the codes (see also the modified example described below with reference to FIG. 8).

[0131] (9) When transitioning from the first code screen to the second code screen, the first code transitions from normal display to abnormal display, and the second code transitions from abnormal display to normal display. Therefore, the second code can be made unreadable on the first code screen, but can be made readable by transitioning to normal display on the subsequent second code screen.

[0132] (10) In the first code screen, the first area containing the readable first code can be positioned above the second area containing the unreadable second code, and in the second code screen, the second area can be positioned above the first area. In this case, the operator reading the code can simply scan the code located at the top on either the first or second code screen, making the reading process easier.

[0133] (11) When the display transition condition is the passage of a specified time or the reading of the first code, the first code screen transitions to the second code screen without any user operation, simplifying operations. Furthermore, when the display transition condition is the reading of the first code, the code screen can be transitioned promptly and at an appropriate time without waiting for the passage of a specified time. When the display transition condition is a user operation or a change in the posture of the terminal device 50, the first code screen can be transitioned to the second code screen at the user's desired timing. Furthermore, when the display transition condition is a change in the posture of the terminal device 50, the code screen transitions when the user points the display 57 toward the cashier or the code scanner 68, eliminating the need for a separate operation.

[0134] (12) When multiple codes of the same type, such as a first point code and a second point code, can be displayed on the code screen 59, the multiple codes can be displayed one by one in sequence in the same display area (for example, the first area) of the first code screen and the second code screen, thereby enabling the user and the code reader to recognize that the codes are of the same type. If the reading order of the first point code and the second point code is not set, it will not matter which one is read first, but by displaying them in sequence, the worker can perform the reading work without worrying about the reading order.

[0135] (13) When multiple codes of the same type, such as a first point code and a second point code, are displayed on the code screen 59, the first point code and the second point code can be displayed in separate display areas (for example, a second area and a third area). In this case, multiple codes are displayed in a list, allowing the operator to visually check how many codes there are to read.

[0136] (14) By displaying an initial code screen in which all codes are displayed in normal display before the first code screen, it is possible to present a list of multiple codes that can be used in the electronic processing to be performed. In addition, if necessary, it is possible to perform code reading on the initial code screen.

[0137] (15) By displaying an initial code screen in which all codes are displayed in an unreadable, non-standard manner before the first code screen, it is possible to present a list of multiple codes that can be used in the electronic processing to be executed. In addition, because all codes are unreadable on the initial code screen, it is possible to prevent errors in reading the codes.

[0138] (16) When the initial transition condition is the passage of a specified time, the initial code screen transitions to the first code screen without any user operation, simplifying the operation. When the initial transition condition is a user operation or a change in the attitude of the terminal device 50, the initial code screen can be transitioned to the first code screen at the timing desired by the user. Furthermore, when the initial transition condition is a change in the attitude of the terminal device 50, the code screen transitions when the user points the display 57 toward the code scanner 68, eliminating the need for a separate operation.

[0139] This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined and implemented within the scope of technical compatibility. [Coupon code display example] 5 and 6, when the coupon code 101 is also displayed on the code screen 59, the payment server 20 may transmit a code request to the service server 40 in the same manner as in step S16, and the payment server 20 may receive the coupon code 101 generated by the service server 40. In this case, the payment server 20 transmits code screen display data including the coupon code 101 and other codes to the terminal device 50 in step S17.

[0140] [Example 1 of code generation method change] When the payment app is launched in step S51, the payment app may send a code request to each of multiple information processing devices (e.g., the payment server 20, the point server 30, and the service server 40). That is, the terminal device 50 may send and receive data to multiple information processing devices without going through any one information processing device (e.g., the payment server 20). In this case, after each information processing device authenticates the user, it generates a corresponding code and transmits data for displaying a code screen to the terminal device 50. In this modified example, instead of steps S18 and S19, the point server 30 that has accepted the point processing may send an instruction to transition from the first code screen to the second code screen to the terminal device 50. In addition, in this modified example, the codes generated by each information processing device may be masked, or the payment app may mask all codes.

[0141] [Example 2 of changing the code generation method] When the first code is read on the initial code screen, the first code screen, or the second code screen, the store terminal 60 may send a processing request directly to the server that generated the read code. The server that receives the processing request may then send a transition instruction directly to the terminal device 50. In this case, after reading the coupon code 101 or the point code 201, it is possible to execute the processing corresponding to the read code without using the payment code 301.

[0142] [Example 3 of changing the code generation method] When a first server issues a first code on a first code screen and a second server issues a first code on a second code screen, the second server may generate a code to be the first code on the second code screen when the first code on the first code screen is read.

[0143] [Example of payment processing changes] For example, if points are set as payment for at least part of the payment, the payment processing request in step S64 may be sent from the store terminal 60 to the point server 30. In this case, in step S35, the point server 30 may perform point usage processing and point granting processing. Thereafter, in step S36, the point server 30 may send a payment processing request together with the processing result to the payment server 20, and the payment server 20 may perform the payment processing.

[0144] [Example of changing the layout of the display area] 7 and 8 show a modified example of a code screen that includes a first point code 111 and a second point code 211 for respectively using two different point services, and a payment code 311, as two or more codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment. The first code screen (see FIG. 7) according to this modified example includes a first area 110 for displaying the first point code 111, a second area 210 for displaying the second point code 211, and a third area 310 for displaying the payment code 311.

[0145] As shown in FIG. 7, on the first code screen (and the initial code screen not shown), the first area 110 is arranged above the second area 210 on the first code screen, and the second area 210 is arranged above the third area 310 on the first code screen. This arrangement order matches the reading order of the codes displayed in each display area. On the first code screen, the first point code 111 is the first code that is normally displayed, and the second point code 211 and the payment code 311 are the second codes that are not normally displayed. When the first point code 111 is read on the first code screen, the first code screen transitions to the second code screen shown in FIG. 8.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 8, on the second code screen, the second area 210 displaying the second point code 211 to be read next is positioned above the first area 110 where the code has already been read. Also, the third area 310 displaying the payment code 311 to be read after the second point code 211 is positioned above the first area 110. On the second code screen, the second point code 211 is the first code in normal display, and the first point code 111 and the payment code 311 are the second codes in abnormal display. In this way, when the code screen transitions from the first code screen to the second code screen, not only the display state of the codes but also the order of the code display areas may be changed.

[0147] 8, the masking method may be changed between the second code that has already been read and the second code that is to be read among the plurality of second codes. For example, the word "read" may be displayed in the processed portion of the second code that has already been read or in the display area (first area 110).

[0148] As an alternative to the modification example shown in Figure 8, the first area 110 of the code that has been read does not have to be displayed on the second code screen, as in a further modification example shown in Figure 9. In other words, when the code screen 59 transitions from the first code screen to the second code screen, the read code and its display area do not have to be displayed. In this case, the cashier can visually check the remaining codes that need to be read, improving workability.

[0149] 7 to 9, the readable first code is arranged above the unreadable second code on the first code screen and the second code screen, which allows the operator performing the code reading task to always scan the topmost code, improving operability.

[0150] [Modification 1 of information processing device] The information processing device and the information processing system 11 are configured to realize functions related to multi-code display. Therefore, one information processing device included in the information processing system 11 may be a point server 30 for providing a point service. Alternatively, the information processing system 11 may be provided with the point server 30, which is an information processing device separate from the payment server 20. Furthermore, one information processing device may be a service server 40 for providing another service, or the information processing system 11 may be provided with a service server 40, which is yet another information processing device. The service server 40 may be configured to issue coupons that can be used at the time of payment, for example, but the services provided by the service server 40 are not limited to issuing coupons.

[0151] [Modification 2 of information processing device] The settlement server 20, the point server 30, and the service server 40 may each be realized as a single computer, or may be distributed among multiple devices (e.g., computers) or subsystems that cooperate to execute programs. For example, the settlement server 20 may have the functions of at least one of the point server 30 and the service server 40.

[0152] [Code change example 1] The multiple codes that can be displayed on the code screen 59 are not limited to one or more payment codes, one or more point codes, and one or more coupon codes, but may also be any code used in electronic processing. The multiple codes may include, for example, an advertising code for proving that an advertisement has been viewed, one or more admission codes used as admission tickets, one or more numbered codes used as numbered tickets distributed for admission or purchases, exchange codes for the distribution of goods or the provision of services, or ticket codes. The tickets may be, for example, taxi tickets, train tickets, coupon tickets, or commuter passes, but are not limited to these. These codes may be displayed on a single code screen (e.g., an initial code screen, a first code screen, or a second code screen) with multiple codes of the same type for a family or group, or may be displayed on a single code screen together with other types of codes (e.g., coupon codes or membership codes).

[0153] [Code change example 2] The multiple codes that can be displayed on the code screen 59 are not limited to one-time codes issued by the server each time an app is launched or the code screen is displayed, but may also be offline codes that can be displayed offline. In this case, even when the terminal device 50 is offline and not connected to a network, the offline codes can be displayed on the code screen 59 as the first code or the second code.

[0154] [Examples of changes to flow charts and configuration diagrams] The flow charts and block diagrams of the present disclosure illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of devices, systems, methods, and programs according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Each step included in these flow charts and each component included in the block diagrams may correspond to a portion of a program including one or more instructions for implementing a logical function. In other embodiments, some of the illustrated steps may be omitted, other steps may be included, the order of steps may be different, or some steps may be executed simultaneously. Furthermore, a flow chart described as a series of actions may be executed in several separate steps, or multiple flow charts may be executed consecutively or in conjunction with each other. In other embodiments, some of the illustrated components may be omitted, other components may be included, or the arrangement of components may be changed. Furthermore, the functions realized by these steps and components may be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, each of the devices and components described in the present disclosure may be represented by one or more components.

[0155] [Memory change example] Memory is used to store data and instructions to be processed by a processor. Memory is a computer-readable storage medium, including non-transitory computer-readable media. Memory may include both non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Memory may include, but is not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), hard disk, storage, removable media, flash memory, memory stick, optical media, magneto-optical media, and CD-ROM. Memory may be implemented as a single storage device or as multiple storage devices or storage systems, either co-located or distributed.

[0156] [Example of changing the processor] The one or more processors may include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a neural network processing unit (NPU), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), other processors including general purpose processors, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein.

[0157] [Example of changing communication interface] The communication IF realizes a function that allows one device to communicate with other devices via a communication network. The communication IF 23 may be, for example, but is not limited to, a local area network (LAN), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), near field communication (NFC), or other wireless communication IF.

[0158] [Network change example] Communication between the devices may be performed according to well-known communication protocols over one or more communication networks, which may be, for example, but not limited to, an intranet, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, a wireless network, a wired network, a virtual network, a software-defined network, or any other type of network or combination thereof.

[0159] The following are some aspects that can be understood based on the above-described embodiment and modifications. [1] A memory for storing instructions; at least one processor; the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause a code screen to be displayed on a display of a terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other; the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area. Information processing device.

[0160] [2] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment; The two or more codes include one or more payment codes and one or more point codes for using a point service. The information processing device according to [1] above.

[0161] [3] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at a store, the at least one processor is configured to set a code to be read first among the two or more codes as the first code according to a set reading order; The information processing device according to [1] or [2] above.

[0162] [4] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at a store, the at least one processor: acquiring store information relating to the store, the store information including information relating to codes that can be used at the store; setting a code that can be used in the store as the first code or the second code according to the store information; The information processing device according to any one of [1] to [3] above, configured to execute the above.

[0163] [5] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at a store, the two or more codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services available at the store, the at least one processor: acquiring at least one of user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device and store information relating to the store; determining a priority order of the plurality of point services based on at least one of the user information and the store information; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code according to the priority order; The information processing device according to any one of [1] to [4] above, configured to execute the above.

[0164] [6] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment processing at a store; the two or more codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services available at the store, the at least one processor: acquiring user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device, the user information including a usage history of the plurality of point services of the user; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history; The information processing device according to any one of [1] to [5] above, configured to execute the above.

[0165] [7] One of the first code and the second code is a payment code, the at least one processor: acquiring user information relating to a user using the terminal device, the user information including an electronic payment history of the user; setting the payment code as the first code or the second code based on the electronic payment history; The information processing device according to any one of [1] to [6] above, configured to execute the above.

[0166] [8] The unusual display is: A display in which at least a part of the second code is blurred; a display in which at least a part of the second code is grayed out; a display in which at least a part of the second code is hidden; a resized representation of at least a portion of the second code; A display in which the second code is replaced with another image or another character; including at least one of The information processing device according to any one of [1] to [7] above.

[0167] [9] the code screen is a first code screen; the at least one processor is configured to transition the first code screen to a second code screen when at least one of one or more display transition conditions is satisfied; the second code screen includes the first area in which the first code has transitioned from the normal display to the non-normal display, and the second area in which the second code has transitioned from the non-normal display to the normal display. The information processing device according to any one of [1] to [8] above.

[0168]

[10] In the first code screen, the first area is disposed above the second area; In the second code screen, the second area is disposed above the first area. The information processing device according to any one of [1] to [9] above.

[0169]

[11] The one or more display transition conditions are: The specified time has passed, User actions taken, A change in the attitude of the terminal device; reading the first code; including at least one of The information processing device according to [9] or

[10] above.

[0170]

[12] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment; The two or more codes include a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively; the code screen is a first code screen, the at least one processor is configured to transition the first code screen to a second code screen when at least one of one or more display transition conditions is satisfied; When the first point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the first code screen, the second point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the second code screen. The information processing device according to any one of [1] to

[11] above.

[0171]

[13] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment; The two or more codes include a payment code, and a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively; the code screen further includes a third area for displaying a first code different from the first code or a second code different from the second code. The information processing device according to any one of [1] to

[12] above.

[0172]

[14] the code screen is a first code screen; the at least one processor: An initial code screen is displayed on the display in response to a startup operation or a settlement operation on the terminal device, the initial code screen including a plurality of display areas for respectively displaying a plurality of codes, and all codes are displayed in the normal display on the initial code screen; After displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of one or more initial transition conditions is satisfied, transitioning the initial code screen to the first code screen; The information processing device according to any one of [1] to

[13] above, configured to execute the above.

[0173]

[15] the code screen is a first code screen; the at least one processor: an initial code screen is displayed on the display in response to a startup operation or a settlement operation on the terminal device, the initial code screen including a plurality of display areas for respectively displaying a plurality of codes, and all codes are displayed in the non-normal display on the initial code screen; After displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of one or more initial transition conditions is satisfied, transitioning the initial code screen to the first code screen; The information processing device according to any one of [1] to

[14] above, configured to execute the above.

[0174]

[16] The one or more initial transition conditions are: After the initial waiting time has elapsed, User actions taken, A change in the attitude of the terminal device; including at least one of The information processing device according to

[14] or

[15] above.

[0175]

[17] A terminal device having a display; one or more servers configured to communicate with the terminal devices; Equipped with one or more of the one or more servers and the terminal device have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other; the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area. Information processing system.

[0176]

[18] including causing at least one processor to display a code screen on a display of a terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other; the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, An information processing method, wherein the first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area.

[0177]

[19] A program for causing at least one processor to display a code screen on a display of a terminal device, the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other; the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area. program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0178] 11...information processing system, 20...payment server, 21,31,41,51,61...processor, 22,32,42,52,62...memory, 24,34,44,54...program, 25,35,45...database, 30...point server, 40...service server, 50...terminal device, 56...sensor, 57...display, 58...touch panel, 59...code screen, 60...store terminal, 68...code scanner, 69...store code, 100,110...first area, 101...coupon code, 102,202,302...character string, 103,203,303...operation button, 111...first point code, 200,210...second area, 201...point code, 211...second point code, 300,310...third area, 301,311...payment code.

Claims

1. a memory for storing instructions; at least one processor; the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause a code screen to be displayed on a display of a terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include one or more point codes for using a point service; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, The at least one processor further comprises: acquiring user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device, the user information including a usage history of the point service of the user; setting one of the one or more point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history; configured to perform Information processing device.

2. a memory for storing instructions; at least one processor; the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause a code screen to be displayed on a display of a terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing at a store that is performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services that are available at the store; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, The at least one processor further comprises: acquiring at least one of user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device and store information relating to the store; determining a priority order of the plurality of point services based on at least one of the user information and the store information; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code according to the priority order; configured to perform Information processing device.

3. a memory for storing instructions; at least one processor; the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause a code screen to be displayed on a display of a terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing at a store that is performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services that are available at the store; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, The at least one processor further comprises: acquiring user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device, the user information including a usage history of the plurality of point services of the user; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history; configured to perform Information processing device.

4. a memory for storing instructions; at least one processor; the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause a code screen to be displayed on a display of a terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, the at least one processor is further configured to transition the code screen to a second code screen when at least one of one or more display transition conditions is satisfied; the second code screen includes the first area in which the first code has transitioned from the normal display to the non-normal display, and the second area in which the second code has transitioned from the non-normal display to the normal display, the first area is disposed above the second area on the code screen; In the second code screen, the second area is disposed above the first area. Information processing device.

5. one of the first code and the second code is a payment code, the at least one processor: acquiring user information relating to a user using the terminal device, the user information including an electronic payment history of the user; setting the payment code as the first code or the second code based on the electronic payment history; The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, configured to execute the above.

6. The non-normal display is A display in which at least a part of the second code is blurred; a display in which at least a part of the second code is grayed out; a display in which at least a part of the second code is hidden; a resized representation of at least a portion of the second code; A display in which the second code is replaced with another image or another character; at least one of 5. The information processing device according to claim 1.

7. the at least one processor is configured to transition the code screen to a second code screen when at least one of one or more display transition conditions is satisfied; the second code screen includes the first area in which the first code has transitioned from the normal display to the non-normal display, and the second area in which the second code has transitioned from the non-normal display to the normal display.

5. The information processing device according to claim 1.

8. the first area is disposed above the second area on the code screen; In the second code screen, the second area is disposed above the first area. The information processing device according to claim 7 .

9. The one or more display transition conditions are: The specified time has passed, User actions taken, A change in the attitude of the terminal device; reading the first code; at least one of The information processing device according to claim 7 .

10. the first code and the second code are two of two or more codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic payment; The two or more codes include a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively; the at least one processor is configured to transition the code screen to a second code screen when at least one of one or more display transition conditions is satisfied; When the first point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the code screen, the second point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the second code screen.

5. The information processing device according to claim 1.

11. the code screen further includes a third area for displaying another code; the first code, the second code, and the other code are three codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic payment; The three codes include a payment code, and a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively.

5. The information processing device according to claim 1.

12. the at least one processor: an initial code screen is displayed on the display in response to a startup operation or a settlement operation on the terminal device, the initial code screen including a plurality of display areas for respectively displaying a plurality of codes, and all codes are displayed in the normal display mode on the initial code screen, or all codes are displayed in the non-normal display mode; after displaying the initial code screen, when at least one of one or more initial transition conditions is satisfied, transitioning the initial code screen to the code screen; The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, configured to execute the above.

13. The one or more initial transition conditions are: After the initial waiting time has elapsed, User actions taken, A change in the attitude of the terminal device; at least one of The information processing device according to claim 12.

14. a terminal device having a display; one or more servers configured to communicate with the terminal devices; Equipped with one or more of the one or more servers and the terminal device have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include one or more point codes for using a point service; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, The at least one processor further comprises: acquiring user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device, the user information including a usage history of the point service of the user; setting one of the one or more point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history; configured to perform Information processing system.

15. a terminal device having a display; one or more servers configured to communicate with the terminal devices; Equipped with one or more of the one or more servers and the terminal device have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing at a store that is performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services that are available at the store; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, The at least one processor further comprises: acquiring at least one of user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device and store information relating to the store; determining a priority order of the plurality of point services based on at least one of the user information and the store information; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code according to the priority order; configured to perform Information processing system.

16. a terminal device having a display; one or more servers configured to communicate with the terminal devices; Equipped with one or more of the one or more servers and the terminal device have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing at a store that is performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services that are available at the store; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, The at least one processor further comprises: acquiring user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device, the user information including a usage history of the plurality of point services of the user; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history; configured to perform Information processing system.

17. a terminal device having a display; one or more servers configured to communicate with the terminal devices; Equipped with one or more of the one or more servers and the terminal device have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, the at least one processor is further configured to transition the code screen to a second code screen when at least one of one or more display transition conditions is satisfied; the second code screen includes the first area in which the first code has transitioned from the normal display to the non-normal display, and the second area in which the second code has transitioned from the non-normal display to the normal display, the first area is disposed above the second area on the code screen; In the second code screen, the second area is disposed above the first area. Information processing system.

18. causing at least one processor to display a code screen on a display of the terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include one or more point codes for using a point service; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, the at least one processor: a step of acquiring user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device, the user information including a usage history of the point service of the user; setting one of the one or more point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history; The information processing method further includes:

19. causing at least one processor to display a code screen on a display of the terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing at a store that is performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services that are available at the store; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, the at least one processor: acquiring at least one of user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device and store information relating to the store; determining a priority order of the plurality of point services based on at least one of the user information and the store information; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code according to the priority order; The information processing method further includes:

20. causing at least one processor to display a code screen on a display of the terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing at a store that is performed by presenting the code screen, and the two or more identification codes include a plurality of point codes for respectively using a plurality of point services that are available at the store; The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, the at least one processor: a step of acquiring user information relating to a user who uses the terminal device, the user information including a usage history of the user of the plurality of point services; setting one of the plurality of point codes as the first code or the second code based on the usage history; The information processing method further includes:

21. causing at least one processor to display a code screen on a display of the terminal device; the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code including different information from each other, the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in association with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, The first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area, the at least one processor further includes a step of transitioning the code screen to a second code screen when at least one of one or more display transition conditions is satisfied; the second code screen includes the first area in which the first code has transitioned from the normal display to the non-normal display, and the second area in which the second code has transitioned from the non-normal display to the normal display, the first area is disposed above the second area on the code screen; In the second code screen, the second area is disposed above the first area. Information processing methods.

22. A program causing at least one processor to carry out the steps of the method according to any one of claims 18 to 21.

Images