Reception system, reception method, and program

Abstract

To provide a reception system that enables efficient check-in. [Solution] The reception system according to the present disclosure includes a reception terminal and an attribute information matching unit. The attribute information matching unit has a storage unit that stores target attribute information, which is a guest's attribute that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information that identifies the communication terminal to be notified, a matching unit that acquires reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal, and sends a permission request to the communication terminal to allow the guest to check in if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information, and a control unit that allows the guest to check in if approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a reception system, a reception method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a known technology for unmanning reception at accommodation facilities, where guests are automatically checked in using a designated reception terminal. As a related technology, Patent Document 1 discloses a reception system that can verify the identity of guests using facial recognition and character recognition. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-099656 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] By using the automated check-in system described above, accommodation facilities can process check-ins without human intervention. However, certain local regulations require employees to verify guests' ages at check-in if they are under the specified age. In such areas, a fully automated check-in system cannot meet the requirements of the regulations.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a reception system, a reception method, and a program that enable efficient check-in. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The reception system according to the present disclosure includes: A reception terminal; an attribute information matching unit; The attribute information matching unit a storage unit that stores target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information that identifies a communication terminal to which the notification is to be sent; a verification unit that acquires reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal, and transmits a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; and a control unit that permits check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal.

[0007] The reception method according to the present disclosure is as follows: a storage step of storing target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information, which identifies a communication terminal to be notified; a comparison step of acquiring reservation information of the guest using a reservation number or guest information input from a reception terminal, and transmitting a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; and a control step of permitting check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal.

[0008] The program according to the present disclosure is a storage step of storing target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information, which identifies a communication terminal to be notified; a comparison step of acquiring reservation information of the guest using a reservation number or guest information input from a reception terminal, and transmitting a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; and a control step of permitting check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The reception system, reception method, and program according to the present disclosure enable efficient check-in. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the reception system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the reception system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the reception system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the attribute information matching unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an interruption screen displayed on the display or touch panel of the input / output device of the kiosk terminal while the check-in process is interrupted. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a permission request screen displayed on the display unit of the employee terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of check-in processing performed by the kiosk terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the check-in permission process performed by the attribute information matching unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that realizes the reception system and the like. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In addition to the issues mentioned above, automatic check-in systems also present the following challenges. For example, even accommodation facilities that have installed automatic check-in systems may avoid fully unmanned operation from the perspective of preventing fraud and crime. Such accommodation facilities face the challenge of having to station an employee at the reception desk or near the automatic check-in system, day and night.

[0012] Additionally, wheelchair users and guests under the age of 18 may require assistance or confirmation from facility staff when checking in. However, a fully automated check-in system presents a challenge in that staff are unable to provide support tailored to each guest.

[0013] Furthermore, some accommodations have automated check-in systems that do not perform strict identity verification such as facial recognition, and instead allow guests to check in with only the reservation number and the name of the person who made the reservation. Such facilities operate in a way that accepts the risk that an unintended third party could illegally obtain the reservation number and the name of the person who made the reservation and check in.

[0014] Under these operating conditions, when multiple guests share a room and check in separately, there is a possibility that an unintended third party may illegally check in and create a room key card while the previous guest has entered the room. This poses a risk of unauthorized entry into a room where a guest is already in. Therefore, when multiple guests share a room, it is necessary to raise the level of identity verification for guests who check in later, but hotels face the challenge of not being able to adopt expensive methods such as facial recognition.

[0015] The technology according to the present disclosure solves the above-mentioned problems. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals. For clarity of explanation, duplicate explanations will be omitted as necessary.

[0016] <Embodiment 1> (Reception system 100) 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a reception system 100 according to the present disclosure. The reception system 100 includes a reception terminal 110 and an attribute information matching unit 130. The attribute information matching unit 130 includes a storage unit 131, a matching unit 132, and a control unit 133.

[0017] The reception terminal 110 accepts the check-in of a guest. The storage unit 131 stores target attribute information, which is the attribute of the guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and identification information that identifies the communication terminal to which the information is to be notified. The matching unit 132 acquires the reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal 110, and if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information, it sends a permission request to the communication terminal to allow the guest to check in. If the control unit 133 receives approval information corresponding to the permission request from the communication terminal, it allows the guest to check in.

[0018] The reception terminal 110 and the attribute information matching unit 130 each include a processor, a memory, and a storage device, which are not shown in the figure. The storage device stores a computer program that implements the processing according to the present disclosure. The processor can load the computer program from the storage device into the memory and execute the computer program. In this way, the processor of the attribute information matching unit 130 realizes the functions of the matching unit 132 and the control unit 133.

[0019] Alternatively, the collation unit 132 and the control unit 133 may each be realized by dedicated hardware. Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by general-purpose or dedicated circuits, processors, etc., or a combination of these. These may be configured by a single chip, or by multiple chips connected via a bus. Some or all of the components of each device may be realized by a combination of the above-mentioned circuits, etc., and a program.

[0020] (Processing of reception system 100) The processing performed by the reception system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of the processing performed by the reception system 100.

[0021] First, the storage unit 131 stores the target attribute information and the terminal identification information (S1). Next, the matching unit 132 acquires the reservation information of the guest (S2). Subsequently, the matching unit 132 determines whether the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information (S3). If it is determined that the target attribute information does not match the guest attribute information (NO in S3), the processing ends. If it is determined that the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information (YES in S3), the matching unit 132 sends a permission request to the communication terminal (S4).

[0022] Next, the control unit 133 determines whether or not approval information has been received from the communication terminal (S5). If it is determined that approval information has not been received (NO in S5), the process of step S5 is repeated. If it is determined that approval information has been received (YES in S5), the control unit 133 permits the check-in of the guest (S6). Then, the process ends.

[0023] With this configuration, the reception system 100 according to the present disclosure allows efficient check-in.

[0024] <Embodiment 2> A second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The second embodiment is a specific example of the first embodiment described above.

[0025] (Reception system 100a) 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a reception system 100a according to the present disclosure. The reception system 100a is an example of the reception system 100 described above.

[0026] The reception system 100a is an information processing system capable of accepting check-ins from guests visiting a facility. The reception system 100a can be used, for example, for reception at accommodation facilities. Accommodation facilities include, but are not limited to, hotels, inns, and private lodging facilities. For example, the reception system 100a can also be applied to facilities that do not offer accommodation. The following describes an example in which the reception system 100a is used as an automatic check-in system for a hotel.

[0027] The reception system 100a notifies an employee of a check-in permission request while a guest is in the middle of checking in, and the employee performs the check-in permission operation, thereby completing the guest's check-in.

[0028] Furthermore, if the attributes of a guest match specific attributes that have been registered in advance (for example, if the guest is a wheelchair user), the reception system 100a can notify the staff of this fact.

[0029] The configuration of the reception system 100a will be described with reference to Figure 3. As shown in Figure 3, the reception system 100a includes a facial photo information matching unit 10, a character information matching unit 20, an attribute information matching unit 30, an employee terminal 12, a kiosk terminal 22, and a workflow control server 3. The reception system 100a may also include at least one of a hotel server 4, a hotel reservation management system 5, a payment management server 6, an email server 7, a card key management system 8, and a card key reader 9, as appropriate.

[0030] The facial photo information matching unit 10 matches multiple pieces of facial photo information showing facial photos of a specific person and checks whether the people in the facial photos shown in the multiple pieces of facial photo information match. The facial photo information matching unit 10 may be, for example, a face authentication system. A match between the people in the facial photos shown in the multiple pieces of facial photo information refers to a comparison of the degrees of match between the acquired facial data, where the degree of match exceeds a judgment value J1. The judgment value J1 may be changed depending on the usage environment of the reception system 100a. The usage environment of the reception system 100a may be, for example, the location of the hotel, the price range of accommodation fees, whether or not other auxiliary matching is used, or a combination of these.

[0031] 3 is provided to transmit and receive various information to and from the workflow control server 3. The facial photograph information matching unit 10 may be provided in the workflow control server 3 or the kiosk terminal 22.

[0032] The character information matching unit 20 matches multiple pieces of character information and checks whether the information indicated by the multiple pieces of character information matches. The character information matching unit 20 may be, for example, a character authentication system. The character information matching unit 20 shown in FIG. 3 is configured to send and receive various information to and from the workflow control server 3. The character information matching unit 20 may be provided within the workflow control server 3 or within the kiosk terminal 22.

[0033] The attribute information matching unit 30 is an example of the attribute information matching unit 130 described above. The attribute information matching unit 30 matches multiple pieces of attribute information and checks whether the information indicated by the multiple pieces of attribute information matches. The attribute information matching unit 30 may be, for example, an attribute authentication system. The attribute information matching unit 30 shown in FIG. 3 is configured to transmit and receive various information to and from the workflow control server 3. The attribute information matching unit 30 may be provided in the workflow control server 3 or in the kiosk terminal 22.

[0034] The configuration of the attribute information matching unit 30 will now be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of the attribute information matching unit 30. The attribute information matching unit 30 includes a storage unit 31, a matching unit 32, and a control unit 33.

[0035] The storage unit 31 is an example of the storage unit 131 described above. The storage unit 31 stores various data and programs. At least a portion of the storage unit 31 is configured with non-volatile memory so that data is retained even when the attribute information matching unit 30 is turned off. The storage unit 31 stores target attribute information, which is the attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by a staff member, and terminal identification information that identifies the communication terminal to which the notification is to be sent.

[0036] The target attribute information is information indicating the attributes of guests that require confirmation by staff. For example, the target attribute information is information such as age being under 18 years old, country of residence being outside Japan, etc. The target attribute information may be information determined by local regulations or may be information independently set by the hotel.

[0037] The communication terminal is a terminal device that receives a permission request to allow a guest to check in. In addition, the communication terminal transmits approval information indicating that the check-in is approved in response to the received permission request. The communication terminal may be, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, or a PC (Personal Computer). The communication terminal is not limited to these and may be various terminal devices capable of transmitting and receiving data. In the following, an employee terminal 12 used by a hotel employee is used as the communication terminal. The employee terminal 12 will be described later.

[0038] The terminal identification information is information for identifying a communication terminal. The terminal identification information is, for example, a notification destination ID or an email address. However, the terminal identification information is not limited to these, and may be any information that identifies a communication terminal.

[0039] The communication terminal to which the notification is sent may be changed depending on the time of day. For example, during the time when an employee is present at the reception desk, the notification may be sent to a terminal device installed at the reception desk, and at night, the notification may be sent to the employee terminal 12 used by an employee on standby. This allows the employee to approve the permission request sent from the reception system 100a at night, making it possible to check in with the employee's confirmation even if the employee is not stationed near the reception desk or the kiosk terminal 22.

[0040] The storage unit 31 may also store display information to be displayed on the communication terminal among the guest information. The display information may be, for example, the name, address, or telephone number of the guest. The display information may also include passport information and camera-captured facial photograph information.

[0041] The collation unit 32 is an example of the collation unit 132 described above. The collation unit 32 acquires reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the kiosk terminal 22 (reception terminal). The reservation number is information that identifies the reservation. The reservation number may be, for example, a number issued when the reservation is made by telephone or on a predetermined website. The guest information is information about the guest. The guest information includes, for example, the name, address, or contact information of the guest. The guest information may also include guest identification information that identifies the guest.

[0042] The collation unit 32 determines whether the target attribute information matches the lodger attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information. If the collation unit 32 determines that the target attribute information matches the lodger attribute information, it suspends the check-in process performed by the kiosk terminal 22. The collation unit 32 causes the kiosk terminal 22 to display display information indicating that the check-in process has been suspended until the check-in process is resumed. The collation unit 32 also transmits a permission request to the employee terminal 12 (communication terminal) to permit the lodger to check in. As a result, the display unit 12a of the employee terminal 12 displays a permission request screen.

[0043] The permission request may be sent in any format. The collation unit 32 may send the permission request by using, for example, SMS (Short Message Service) or email. For example, in the case of SMS, the telephone number of the employee terminal 12 may be registered as the notification destination. The collation unit 32 may send a URL for permission via SMS and have the employee respond by clicking on the URL.

[0044] 5 is a diagram showing an example of an interruption screen 221 displayed on the display or touch panel of the input / output device 2d of the kiosk terminal 22 while the check-in process is interrupted. The display or touch panel of the input / output device 2d may display the interruption screen 221 superimposed on the check-in process screen. The interruption screen 221 may include a message 221a indicating that the check-in process has been interrupted. The interruption screen 221 may also include a bar 221b indicating the waiting time.

[0045] 6 is a diagram showing an example of a permission request screen 121 displayed on the display unit 12a of the employee terminal 12. For example, the permission request screen 121 includes a permission button 121a to be pressed to permit check-in and a denial button 121b to be pressed to deny check-in. The permission request screen 121 also includes guest information 121c, which is information that requires confirmation by an employee.

[0046] For example, a predetermined application (hereinafter referred to as an "app") may be installed in the employee terminal 12 in advance, and the process according to the present disclosure may be performed via the app. This allows the employee terminal 12 to easily receive permission requests and display information. Furthermore, the employee can easily approve the permission requests via the display screen of the app. The app may be, for example, a web app.

[0047] Returning to Fig. 4, the description of the attribute information matching unit 30 continues. When the target attribute information matches the lodger attribute information and the lodger attribute information includes a specific attribute that requires employee support, the matching unit 32 may transmit a permission request along with a message to the employee terminal 12 indicating that employee support is required. The matching unit 32 may also cause the kiosk terminal 22 to display information indicating that an employee will be on hand to provide support.

[0048] Employee support refers to assistance required for guests at check-in, for example. Employee support includes, for example, support for wheelchair users. This allows employees who are not at the reception desk to rush to the guest at the reception desk. This prevents the guest from leaving the area and allows the employee to provide support to the guest. Note that employee support is not limited to employees moving to the reception desk. For example, employee support may include arranging the guest's room or installing necessary equipment. This allows the guest to use the facilities smoothly.

[0049] The control unit 33 is an example of the control unit 133 described above. When the control unit 33 receives approval information from the employee terminal 12, it causes the kiosk terminal 22 to display reservation information related to the reservation of the guest. Furthermore, when the control unit 33 receives approval information corresponding to a permission request from the employee terminal 12, it permits the check-in of the guest. For example, the control unit 33 transmits a permission notice to the kiosk terminal 22 indicating that the check-in is permitted. Furthermore, the control unit 33 controls the kiosk terminal 22 to resume the check-in process.

[0050] Returning to FIG. 3, the explanation of the reception system 100a will continue. The employee terminal 12 is an example of the communication terminal described above. The employee terminal 12 includes a display unit 12a. The display unit 12a is a display device such as a monitor. The display unit 12a may be a touch panel that accepts input from the employee. The employee terminal 12 is, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, or a PC, but is not limited to these.

[0051] The kiosk terminal 22 includes a card key writer 2a, a scanner 2b, a camera 2c, an input / output device 2d, and a printer 2e. The kiosk terminal 22 is an example of the reception terminal 110 shown in Fig. 1. The kiosk terminal 22 accepts check-in by guests. The kiosk terminal 22 may be configured using, for example, a PC.

[0052] The card key writer 2a creates a card key K1 corresponding to each hotel room. The scanner 2b scans a passport P1 and generates facial photograph information for the passport P1. The camera 2c photographs guests who operate the kiosk terminal 22 or who are near the kiosk terminal 22. The camera 2c also generates facial photograph information for the guests.

[0053] The input / output device 2d receives input of check-in or check-out from guests. The input / output device 2d may be, for example, a keyboard, a display, a touch panel, a speaker, a sound collector, or a combination of these. The printer 2e prints receipts and the like.

[0054] The workflow control server 3 is connected via wire or wireless to a facial photograph information matching unit 10, a character information matching unit 20, an attribute information matching unit 30, a kiosk terminal 22, a hotel server 4, and a card key management system 8. The workflow control server 3 transmits and receives various information to and from these units as appropriate.

[0055] The hotel server 4 includes a storage device 4a. The storage device 4a stores room information, such as a room number, a door key authentication key, detailed customer information, check-in date and time, and check-out date and time.

[0056] The credit card reader 4b is installed at the hotel reception and reads the credit card C1 of the guest. The hotel server 4 obtains information about the credit card C1 from the credit card reader 4b.

[0057] The hotel reservation management system 5 includes a storage device 5a. The storage device 5a stores reservation information. The reservation information is, for example, a reservation number and detailed reservation information. The detailed reservation information is, for example, the guest's name, email address, age, nationality, address, passport number, need for special accommodations, room type, check-in date and time, check-out date and time, length of stay, preference for a smoking or non-smoking room, and reservation amount. The need for special accommodations may be, for example, whether or not a wheelchair is required. The guest inputs this detailed reservation information via the network N and the hotel reservation management system 5. The storage device 5a then stores the detailed reservation information.

[0058] The hotel reservation management system 5, payment management server 6, and email server 7 send and receive various information to and from a financial institution GW (gateway) 11 via a network N. The financial institution accepts requests for credit checks and deposit payments via the financial institution GW 11.

[0059] The card key reader 9 reads the card key K1. The card key management system 8 unlocks or locks the guest's room (guest room) according to the card key K1 read by the card key reader 9.

[0060] (Processing of kiosk terminal 22) The processing of the kiosk terminal 22 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the check-in processing performed by the kiosk terminal 22.

[0061] First, the kiosk terminal 22 accepts input of a check-in application from a guest (S11). Specifically, the display or touch panel of the input / output device 2d of the kiosk terminal 22 displays an initial selection screen. The input / output device 2d accepts input indicating a check-in application by the guest on the initial selection screen, and also accepts input of a reservation number or the guest's name. The reservation number or the guest's name was made by the guest using the hotel reservation management system 5 via the network N before check-in and was stored in the storage device 5a.

[0062] Next, the scanner 2b of the kiosk terminal 22 is used to scan the passport P1, while the camera 2c is used to take a facial photograph of the guest (S12). Specifically, the input / output device 2d of the kiosk terminal 22 displays a passport read button. The input / output device 2d also accepts input from the guest pressing the passport read button. The scanner 2b scans the passport P1 to obtain passport facial photograph information and passport character information.

[0063] The input / output device 2d displays the face photograph indicated by the passport face photograph information and information indicated by the passport character information, such as the passport number, expiration date, name, address, and date of birth.

[0064] Furthermore, the kiosk terminal 22 displays a button for taking a photograph of the guest's image on the input / output device 2d, and also takes a photograph of the guest's face using the camera 2c and displays the taken photograph of the guest's face on the input / output device 2d of the kiosk terminal 22. When the kiosk terminal 22 receives an input from the guest pressing the photographing execution button, it takes an image captured by the camera 2c at that time and generates facial photograph information of the guest.

[0065] Next, the kiosk terminal 22 compares the passport facial photo information with the photographed facial photo information of the guest to verify their identity (S13). Specifically, the kiosk terminal 22 attaches the passport facial photo information and the photographed facial photo information and sends a facial authentication request to the workflow control server 3. The workflow control server 3 then requests the facial photo information matching unit 10 to authenticate this facial authentication request. The facial photo information matching unit 10 compares the images represented by the received passport facial photo information and the photographed facial photo information, calculates the probability that they are the same person, and returns the calculated probability. The kiosk terminal 22 receives the calculated probability via the workflow control server 3. If the calculated probability is equal to or greater than a pre-registered threshold, the kiosk terminal 22 determines that the guest's identity has been verified.

[0066] The kiosk terminal 22 may also compare the passport character information with the reservation information stored in the storage device 5a. This comparison may be performed as an aid to identity verification. The kiosk terminal 22 attaches the passport character information and requests character authentication from the workflow control server 3. The workflow control server 3 requests the character information comparison unit 20 to authenticate this requested character authentication.

[0067] The character information collating unit 20 compares the received passport character information with the guest's reservation information stored in the storage device 5a, determines whether they are identical, and returns the result. The kiosk terminal 22 receives the result of this determination via the workflow control server 3. If the calculated probability is equal to or greater than a pre-registered threshold, the kiosk terminal 22 determines that the guest's identity has been confirmed.

[0068] Next, the kiosk terminal 22 determines whether the identity verification has been successful (S14). If it is determined that the identity verification has failed (NO in S14), the process ends. If it is determined that the identity verification has been successful (YES in S14), the result is transmitted to the attribute information matching unit 30 (S15). As a result, the attribute information matching unit 30 performs a process of determining whether or not to permit check-in.

[0069] Next, the kiosk terminal 22 determines whether or not the check-in is permitted by the attribute information matching unit 30 (S16). If it determines that the check-in is denied (NO in S16), the process ends. If it determines that the check-in is permitted (YES in S16), the kiosk terminal 22 confirms the reservation details by indicating the room type and whether or not the guest desires a non-smoking or smoking room (S17).

[0070] Specifically, the kiosk terminal 22 uses the reservation number or name entered by the guest as a key. Using this key, the kiosk terminal 22 requests the hotel reservation management system 5 to read the reservation information stored in the storage device 5a via the workflow control server 3 and the hotel server 4. The hotel server 4 refers to the reservation information read by the hotel reservation management system 5, selects a currently available room that matches the reservation information, and returns it together with the reservation information.

[0071] The kiosk terminal 22 displays the received information together with a check-in approval button. Upon receiving the check-in approval button input by the guest, the kiosk terminal 22 writes the room number, guest information, etc. into the room information stored in the storage device 4a of the hotel server 4 via the workflow control server 3.

[0072] Next, the credit card reader 4b reads the credit card information of the credit card C1 and processes the deposit (S18). Specifically, the kiosk terminal 22 displays a deposit payment button and accepts input from the guest by pressing the deposit payment button. The kiosk terminal 22 instructs the credit card reader 4b to read the credit card via the workflow control server 3 and the hotel server 4.

[0073] The credit card reader 4b reads the credit card C1 and transmits the information of the credit card C1 to the hotel server 4. The hotel server 4 then conducts a credit check based on the information of the credit card C1 and sends it to the financial institution via the payment management server 6 and the financial institution GW11. If the credit check result is satisfactory, the hotel server 4 records the deposit amount in the room information stored in the storage device 4a. The hotel server 4 also requests the financial institution to pay the deposit amount via the financial institution GW11.

[0074] Finally, the kiosk terminal 22 creates the card key K1 (S19). Specifically, the kiosk terminal 22 displays a card key write button and accepts input from the guest by pressing the card key write button. The kiosk terminal 22 writes the checked-in room number and other authentication keys required for authentication into the card key K1. The kiosk terminal 22 may display content to the guest urging them to place the card key K1 on the card key writer 2a.

[0075] (Processing of attribute information matching unit 30) The processing of the attribute information matching unit 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the check-in permission processing performed by the attribute information matching unit 30. It is assumed that the storage unit 31 stores the target attribute information and terminal identification information in advance.

[0076] First, the matching unit 32 receives the identity verification result from the kiosk terminal 22 (S21). Here, the description will be made assuming that the identity verification is successful. Next, the matching unit 32 acquires the reservation information of the guest (S22). The matching unit 32 also determines whether the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information (S23). If it is determined that the target attribute information does not match the guest attribute information (NO in S23), the processing ends.

[0077] If it is determined that the target attribute information and the lodger attribute information match (YES in S23), the matching unit 32 sends a permission request to the employee terminal 12 to allow the lodger to check in (S24). The matching unit 32 causes the employee terminal 12 to display, for example, a permission request screen 121 shown in FIG. 6. The matching unit 32 also suspends the check-in process in the kiosk terminal 22. The matching unit 32 causes the kiosk terminal 22 to display display information indicating that the check-in process has been suspended until the check-in process is resumed. For example, the matching unit 32 causes a screen such as the suspension screen 221 shown in FIG. 5 to be displayed.

[0078] Next, the control unit 33 determines whether or not approval information corresponding to the permission request has been received from the employee terminal 12 (S25). If it is determined that approval information has not been received (NO in S25), the process of step S25 is repeated. If it is determined that approval information has been received (YES in S25), the control unit 33 returns a permission notice to the kiosk terminal 22 indicating that the check-in of the guest is permitted (S26). The control unit 33 also causes the kiosk terminal 22 to display reservation information related to the guest's reservation. Then, the control unit 33 resumes the check-in process in the kiosk terminal 22. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0079] The above describes the configuration of the reception system 100a and the processes performed by the kiosk terminal 22 and the attribute information matching unit 30. Note that the configuration of the reception system 100a described above is merely an example and may be modified as appropriate. For example, when some or all of the components of the reception system 100a are realized by multiple information processing devices, circuits, etc., the multiple information processing devices, circuits, etc. may be centrally located or distributed. For example, the information processing devices, circuits, etc. may be realized as a client-server system, a cloud computing system, or the like, in a form in which each is connected via a communication network. Furthermore, for example, the functions of the attribute information matching unit 30, etc. may be provided in a SaaS (Software as a Service) format.

[0080] As described above, the reception system 100a according to the present disclosure notifies an employee of the guest information about the guest who is about to check in, and the employee gives permission, allowing the guest to check in without going through the employee. This satisfies the requirement of an employee to confirm the guest's identity at check-in, as required by local ordinances.

[0081] Furthermore, confirmation with employees at check-in is done via SMS, email, etc., so employees in the backroom can easily give permission to check in. This makes it possible to check in with employee confirmation without having to station an employee near the reception desk or kiosk terminal 22.

[0082] Furthermore, the reception system 100a can include in the permission notice permitting check-in whether the guest requires assistance from an employee. This allows the reception system 100a to provide wheelchair users and guests under the age of 18 with appropriate support services from employees. In this way, the reception system 100a enables efficient check-in.

[0083] <Modification> In the above example, the employee terminal 12 was registered as the notification recipient, but if multiple people share a room, it is also possible to register one of the guests as the notification recipient and have the permission request sent to the communication terminal used by that person.

[0084] For example, suppose there are two guests A and B sharing a room, and guest A checks in first, followed by guest B. In this case, the communication terminal to be notified may be the communication terminal 13 (first guest communication terminal) (not shown) used by guest A (first guest) who checked in before guest B (second guest). The matching unit 32 of the attribute information matching unit 30 transmits a permission request (second guest permission request) to the communication terminal 13 to permit the check-in of guest B. When the control unit 33 of the attribute information matching unit 30 receives approval information corresponding to the permission request from the communication terminal 13, it permits the check-in of guest B.

[0085] The flow of processing according to this modified example will be described in detail. First, of guests A and B who share a room, guest A performs the check-in operation first, and the reception system 100a permits guest A to check in. For example, guest A can check in to a hotel using a method similar to that of the second embodiment described above. When guest B subsequently arrives at the hotel and begins the check-in operation, the kiosk terminal 22 acquires the reservation information of guest B from the reservation information stored in the storage device 5a of the hotel reservation management system 5.

[0086] The kiosk terminal 22 confirms that guest B has made a reservation to share a room with multiple people and that guest A's communication terminal 13 is registered as a notification destination, and notifies the attribute information matching unit 30 of this fact. In the attribute information matching unit 30, the matching unit 32 notifies guest A's communication terminal 13 of a permission request. This enables the reception system 100a to prevent a third party from fraudulently checking in by falsely claiming to be a shared guest. When guest A approves the permission request, the control unit 33 permits guest B to check in. The kiosk terminal 22 resumes the check-in process for guest B and completes the check-in process.

[0087] With this configuration, when a room is shared by multiple people, the kiosk terminal 22 can issue a card key to guest B who arrives at the hotel later. The kiosk terminal 22 can also issue a card key in the same way even if guest B checks in first. Note that when a room is shared by three or more people, the first guest to check in may be the notification recipient, for example.

[0088] According to this modification, the reception system 100a can request permission to check in from people other than employees, so that check-in can be performed efficiently.

[0089] <Hardware configuration example> Each functional component of the reception system 100, facial photo information matching unit 10, character information matching unit 20, attribute information matching unit 30, kiosk terminal 22, hotel server 4, hotel reservation management system 5, payment management server 6, email server 7, card key management system 8, employee terminal 12, and communication terminal 13 (hereinafter referred to as "reception system 100, etc.") may be realized by hardware (e.g., hardwired electronic circuits, etc.) that realizes each functional component, or may be realized by a combination of hardware and software (e.g., a combination of an electronic circuit and a program that controls it). Below, we will further explain the case where each functional component of the reception system 100, etc. is realized by a combination of hardware and software.

[0090] 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer 900 that realizes the reception system 100, etc. The computer 900 may be a dedicated computer designed to realize the reception system 100, etc., or may be a general-purpose computer. The computer 900 may also be a portable computer such as a smartphone or tablet terminal.

[0091] For example, by installing a predetermined application on the computer 900, the functions of the reception system 100 and the like are realized on the computer 900. The application is configured by a program for realizing the functional components of the reception system 100 and the like.

[0092] The computer 900 includes a bus 902, a processor 904, a memory 906, a storage device 908, an input / output interface 910, and a network interface 912. The bus 902 is a data transmission path for the processor 904, the memory 906, the storage device 908, the input / output interface 910, and the network interface 912 to transmit and receive data to and from each other. However, the method for connecting the processor 904 and other components to each other is not limited to a bus connection.

[0093] The processor 904 is a variety of processors such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a quantum processor (quantum computer control chip). The memory 906 is a main storage device realized using a random access memory (RAM) or the like. The storage device 908 is an auxiliary storage device realized using a hard disk, a solid state drive (SSD), a memory card, a read only memory (ROM), or the like.

[0094] The input / output interface 910 is an interface for connecting the computer 900 to an input / output device. For example, the input / output interface 910 is connected to an input device such as a keyboard and an output device such as a display device.

[0095] The network interface 912 is an interface for connecting the computer 900 to a network. This network may be a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0096] The storage device 908 stores programs (programs that realize the above-mentioned applications) that realize the various functional components of the reception system 100, etc. The processor 904 reads these programs into the memory 906 and executes them, thereby realizing the various functional components of the reception system 100, etc.

[0097] Each processor executes one or more programs containing instructions for causing a computer to perform the algorithms described with reference to the figures. The programs contain instructions (or software code) that, when loaded into a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more functions described in the embodiments. The programs may be stored on various types of non-transitory computer-readable media or tangible storage media. By way of example and not limitation, non-transitory computer-readable media or tangible storage media include RAM, ROM, flash memory, SSD or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The programs may also be transmitted over various types of transitory computer-readable media or communication media. By way of example and not limitation, transitory computer-readable media or communication media include electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0098] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present disclosure within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0099] Each drawing is merely an example for describing one or more embodiments. Each drawing may relate not only to one particular embodiment, but also to one or more other embodiments. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various features or steps described with reference to any one drawing can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings to create, for example, an embodiment not explicitly shown or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one drawing are necessary to describe an exemplary embodiment, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of steps described in any drawing may be changed as appropriate.

[0100] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes. (Appendix 1) A reception terminal; an attribute information matching unit; The attribute information matching unit a storage unit that stores target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information that identifies a communication terminal to which the notification is to be sent; a verification unit that acquires reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal, and transmits a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; a control unit that permits check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal; Reception system. (Appendix 2) When the control unit receives the approval information from the communication terminal, the control unit causes the reception terminal to display reservation information regarding the reservation of the guest. The reception system described in Appendix 1. (Appendix 3) the communication terminal is an employee terminal used by the employee, If the target attribute information matches the lodger attribute information and the lodger attribute information includes a specific attribute that requires the support of the employee, the collation unit transmits to the communication terminal the permission request along with a message indicating that the support of the employee is required. Attachment 1 or 2 of the reception system. (Appendix 4) the communication terminal is a first guest communication terminal used by a first guest who checked in before a second guest; the verification unit transmits a second guest permission request to the first guest communication terminal to permit check-in of the second guest; The control unit, when receiving approval information corresponding to the second guest permission request from the first guest communication terminal, permits the check-in of the second guest. 4. The reception system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3. (Appendix 5) When the target attribute information and the lodger attribute information match, the collation unit suspends the check-in process and displays, on the reception terminal, display information indicating that the check-in process has been suspended until the check-in process is resumed. 5. The reception system according to any one of appendices 1 to 4. (Appendix 6) a storage step of storing target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information, which identifies a communication terminal to be notified; a comparison step of acquiring reservation information of the guest using a reservation number or guest information input from a reception terminal, and transmitting a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; a control step of permitting check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal. How to check in. (Appendix 7) a storage step of storing target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information, which identifies a communication terminal to be notified; a comparison step of acquiring reservation information of the guest using a reservation number or guest information input from a reception terminal, and transmitting a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; a control step of permitting check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal. program.

[0101] Some or all of the elements (e.g., configurations and functions) described in Supplementary Notes 2 to 5 that are dependent on Supplementary Note 1 may also be dependent on Supplementary Notes 6 and 7 in the same dependency relationship as Supplementary Notes 2 to 5. Some or all of the elements described in any Supplementary Note may be applied to various hardware, software, recording means for recording software, systems, and methods. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 2a Card key writer 2b Scanner 2c Camera 2D input / output devices 2e printer 3 Workflow Control Server 4 Hotel Server 4a Storage device 4b Credit card reader 5. Hotel Reservation Management System 5a Storage device 6. Payment Management Server 7. Email Server 8. Card key management system 9 Card Key Reader 10. Facial Photo Information Matching Unit 12 Employee terminals 12a Display section 13. Communication terminals 20 Character information matching unit 22 Kiosk terminal 30 Attribute information matching unit 31 Storage section 32 Matching unit 33 Control Unit 100 Reception System 100a Reception System 110 Reception terminal 121 Permission request screen 121a Allow button 121b Reject button 121c Guest Information 130 Attribute information matching unit 131 Storage section 132 Matching Unit 133 Control Unit 221 Interruption screen 221a Message 221b Bar 900 Computers 902 Bus 904 processor 906 memory 908 Storage Devices 910 Input / Output Interface 912 Network Interface C1 Credit Card 11 Financial Institutions GW K1 Card Key N Network

Claims

1. A reception terminal; an attribute information matching unit; The attribute information matching unit a storage unit that stores target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information that identifies a communication terminal to which the notification is to be sent; a verification unit that, when the identity verification of the guest is successful, acquires reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal, and, when the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information, transmits a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest; a control unit that permits check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal, The verification unit displays a permission request screen on the display unit of the communication terminal, the permission screen including a permission button that is selected when the check-in of the guest is permitted. Reception system.

2. When the control unit receives the approval information from the communication terminal, the control unit causes the reception terminal to display reservation information regarding the reservation of the guest. The reception system according to claim 1 .

3. the communication terminal is an employee terminal used by the employee, If the target attribute information matches the lodger attribute information and the lodger attribute information includes a specific attribute that requires the support of the employee, the collation unit transmits to the communication terminal the permission request along with a message indicating that the support of the employee is required. The reception system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The room to be checked in is shared by multiple guests, including the first and second guests, the communication terminal is a first guest communication terminal used by the first guest who checked in before the second guest, the verification unit transmits a second guest permission request to the first guest communication terminal to permit check-in of the second guest; The control unit, when receiving approval information corresponding to the second guest permission request from the first guest communication terminal, permits the check-in of the second guest. The reception system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. When the target attribute information and the lodger attribute information match, the collation unit suspends the check-in process and displays, on the reception terminal, display information indicating that the check-in process has been suspended until the check-in process is resumed. The reception system according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The communication terminal includes at least one of a terminal device provided at a predetermined location and an employee terminal used by the employee, and is changed depending on the time of day according to the location of the employee. The reception system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. A reception terminal; an attribute information matching unit; The attribute information matching unit a storage unit that stores target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information that identifies a communication terminal to which the notification is to be sent; a verification unit that acquires reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal, and transmits a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest if the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; a control unit that permits check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal, The room you are checking into is shared by multiple guests, including the first and second guests. the communication terminal is a first guest communication terminal used by the first guest who checked in before the second guest, the verification unit transmits a second guest permission request to the first guest communication terminal to permit check-in of the second guest; The control unit, when receiving approval information corresponding to the second guest permission request from the first guest communication terminal, permits the check-in of the second guest. Reception system.

8. a storage step of storing target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information, which identifies a communication terminal to be notified; a verification step of acquiring reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal when the guest has successfully verified their identity, and transmitting a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest when the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; a control step of permitting check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal, In the checking step, a permission request screen including a permission button to be selected when the check-in of the guest is permitted is displayed on the display unit of the communication terminal. How to check in.

9. a storage step of storing target attribute information, which is an attribute of a guest that needs to be confirmed by an employee, and terminal identification information, which identifies a communication terminal to be notified; a verification step of acquiring reservation information of the guest using the reservation number or guest information input from the reception terminal when the guest has successfully verified their identity, and transmitting a permission request to the communication terminal to permit check-in of the guest when the target attribute information matches the guest attribute information indicated in the acquired reservation information; a control step of permitting check-in of the guest when approval information corresponding to the permission request is received from the communication terminal; In the checking step, a permission request screen including a permission button to be selected when the check-in of the guest is permitted is displayed on the display unit of the communication terminal. program.

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