Item supply device, item supply system, and management device

Abstract

An article supply device, an article supply system, and a management device are provided that can meet the needs of consumers. [Solution] The product supply device includes a display unit that displays first identification information, a storage unit that stores products, a supply unit that supplies the products stored in the storage unit, and a control unit that controls the supply unit to supply the products on the condition that the first identification information has been acquired, the second identification information has been acquired, and the price of the products has been paid. The first identification information includes access information to a means for acquiring the second identification information.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an article supply device, an article supply system, and a management device. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is an article supplying device in which capsule toy articles stored in the device main body are obtained by operating a handle or the like on the condition that a price is paid (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-334911 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In such an article supply device, there is an increasing number of consumers who desire to receive articles in other ways than just payment of a price as a condition for receiving the article.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides an article supply device, an article supply system, and a management device that can meet the demands of consumers who want to receive articles in various forms. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an item supply device capable of supplying items, comprising: a display unit that displays first identification information; a storage unit that stores items; a supply unit that supplies the items stored in the storage unit; and a control unit that controls the supply unit to supply items on the condition that the first identification information has been acquired, the second identification information has been acquired, and the price of the items has been paid.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a product supply system capable of supplying products, comprising a product supply device and a terminal, wherein the product supply device comprises a display unit that displays first identification information, a storage unit that stores products, a supply unit that supplies the products stored in the storage unit, and a control unit that controls the supply unit to supply products, wherein the terminal comprises a first acquisition unit that can acquire the first identification information and a second acquisition unit that can acquire the second identification information, and the control unit of the product supply device enables the supply unit to supply products under the conditions that the first identification information has been acquired by the terminal, the second identification information has been acquired by the terminal, and payment of the price has been completed.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is a management device that manages the supply of goods from a goods supply device, and includes a first identification information acquisition unit that acquires first identification information displayed on the goods supply device, a goods supply device identification unit that identifies the goods supply device using the first identification information, a second identification information acquisition unit that acquires second identification information different from the first identification information, an authentication unit that authenticates the second identification information, and a control unit that identifies the goods supply device and, on the condition that the second identification information has been authenticated, controls the identified goods supply device to a state where the price of goods can be paid in cash.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is a management device that manages the supply of goods from a goods supply device, and includes a first identification information acquisition unit that acquires first identification information displayed on the goods supply device, a goods supply device identification unit that identifies the goods supply device using the first identification information, a second identification information acquisition unit that acquires second identification information different from the first identification information, an authentication unit that authenticates the second identification information, a payment unit that performs payment processing for the cost of goods supplied by the goods supply device, and a control unit that identifies the goods supply device, authenticates the second identification information, and controls the identified goods supply device to a state where it can supply goods, on the condition that payment for the cost of the goods has been completed by electronic payment. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an item supply device, an item supply system, and a management device that can meet the needs of consumers. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an item supply system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the item supply system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of a smartphone, which is an example of the terminal 3. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of an example of the article supply device 1. As shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of the article supply device 1. As shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the article supply device 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the terminal 3. As shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the item supply device data D1. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the serial code data D2. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the article supply device 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an image of the information display of the first identification information 11 of the goods supply device 1 captured by the image capturing unit 302 of the terminal 3. In FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an example of a serial code input screen displayed on the terminal 3. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an example of guidance information displayed on the terminal 3. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of error guidance information. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an example of an error screen informing users that the serial code could not be authenticated. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the terminal 3 in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 5 in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the user management data D3. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram of an item supply system according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is an example of a payment input screen displayed on the terminal 3. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a flowchart of the article supply device 1 in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a front view of an example of an article supply device 1 according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the supply item data D4. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in the second embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in the second embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of error guidance information. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system according to the first modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 33]FIG. 33 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in the first modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a sequence diagram of an item supply system according to the second modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in the second modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating an article supplying device 1 according to a third embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 shows an example of the item supply device data D1 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a diagram for explaining the article supply device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] <Outline of the embodiment of the present invention> An outline of an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0013] In this embodiment, an item is supplied from an item supply device to only a user who has obtained the right to purchase an item exclusively for that user (limited purchase right) when the user's actions satisfy predetermined conditions, on the condition that the user pays a price. Examples of how a user may obtain the limited purchase right include, but are not limited to, purchasing a product other than the item to be supplied to the user, participating in an event by the user, or entering a lottery by the user. In other words, any action by the user may be sufficient as long as it satisfies the predetermined conditions. Here, the limited purchase right obtained when the user's actions satisfy the predetermined conditions must be authenticated in some form. A typical example is identification information that proves the limited purchase right. For example, identification information that is granted when the user purchases a product other than the item, identification information that is granted when the user participates in an event, or identification information that is granted when the user wins a lottery.

[0014] On the other hand, when a company that supplies goods supplies goods to users who have limited purchasing rights, it is desirable to supply the goods to users from a goods supply device rather than by mail, etc. This is because by having users visit a location where a goods supply device is installed, the users can become aware of the goods supply device and, further, that a goods supply device that supplies a wide variety of goods is installed. This is beneficial for the company that supplies the goods and also provides users with an opportunity to learn about a wide variety of goods.

[0015] However, there are many item supply devices at the installation location, and it is necessary to identify the item supply device that will supply items to the user. To identify a single item supply device, identification information assigned to the item supply device can be used.

[0016] However, even if it is possible to identify a product supply device that supplies a product to a user using the identification information assigned to the product supply device, this does not necessarily mean that the user has a legitimate limited purchase right. By linking and authenticating the identified product supply device with the user's limited purchase right, it is possible to accept payment for the product from a user who has a legitimate limited purchase right, and the product can be supplied from the product supply device on the condition that the payment of the price is made. Therefore, the first important thing is to obtain the identification information of the product supply device and identification information that authenticates the user's limited purchase right at the location where the product supply device is installed, and the second important thing is payment of the price.

[0017] Therefore, the embodiment of the present invention is configured as follows: For the sake of concrete explanation, the user's action is assumed to be the purchase of a product from company Y, and the explanation will be given by taking as an example a collaborative project between company X and company Y in which the product is supplied to a user who has acquired limited purchasing rights for the product from company X by purchasing the product.

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an item supply system according to this embodiment. In Figure 1, 1 is an item supply device of company X, 2 is an item supplied by item supply device 1, 3 is a user terminal, and 4 is a product of company Y.

[0019] The item supply device 1 is a device that supplies items 2 to users. The item supply device 1 is installed indoors or outdoors, and typically multiple item supply devices 1 that supply different items are installed. Among these installed item supply devices 1, there is an item supply device 1 that supplies item 2 that is the subject of collaboration between company X and company Y. First identification information 11 is displayed on the item supply device 1 that supplies item 2. This first identification information 11 includes unique identification information that can identify each item supply device 1. For example, the first identification information 11 is the serial number of the item supply device 1, etc. For user convenience, it is desirable that the first identification information 11 be an information display that can be read by the terminal 2. For example, the information display is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (QR code: registered trademark), etc.

[0020] The terminal 3 has a function of reading the information display and a function of communicating with other devices. The terminal 3 is, for example, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or a mobile phone.

[0021] Product 4 is a product supplied by company Y to a user. The type of product is not important. Examples of products include books such as magazines, food items such as drinking water, and stationery. In this embodiment, the product is described as a magazine. When a user purchases a magazine (product 4), the user can obtain a limited right to purchase item 2. Second identification information 12 is displayed on the magazine (product 4). This second identification information 12 is information for authenticating the limited right to purchase of the user who purchased the magazine (product 4). For example, the second identification information 12 is a unique serial code that differs for each magazine. The second identification information 12 may be displayed using letters or numbers, or may be displayed using a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (QR code: registered trademark).

[0022] In order for a user who has purchased a magazine (product 4) to obtain item 2, the user must go to a location where an item supply device 1 is installed, identify an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2 in a location where multiple item supply devices 1 are installed, authenticate the user's limited right to purchase item 2, and pay the price for item 2. Under these conditions, the item supply device 1 is put into a state where it can supply items.

[0023] Therefore, this embodiment has the following features. (1) First identification information 11 for identifying an item supply device 1 that can supply an item 2 to a user is displayed on the item supply device 1. (2) At the location where the goods supply device 1 is installed, the goods supply device 1 from which the user is about to receive goods 2 is identified by having the user's terminal 3 obtain the first identification information 11 of the goods supply device 1. (3) The second identification information 12 is acquired from the user, and the user's limited right to purchase the product 2 is authenticated. If an expiration date is set in the second identification information 12, the expiration date is also authenticated. (4) Settle the price of item 2.

[0024] If the conditions (2), (3), and (4) are met, the terminal 3 is enabled to supply an item to the user from the item supply device 1 of the first identification information 11 acquired by the terminal 3.

[0025] Here, the order of (2), (3), and (4) does not matter, but it is preferable that (4) comes after (2) and (3). If any of the above processes (2), (3), and (4) are canceled midway, it is necessary to return to the state before the process began, but the process of canceling (4) (the process of canceling payment of the fee) is complicated because it requires refunding the fee that has already been paid, so it is better to do it after (2) and (3) have been processed without any problems.

[0026] In order to supply the product 2 to a user who has a valid limited purchase right, it is necessary to link the first identification information 11 and the second identification information 12. The following methods can be used for linking.

[0027] In addition to the unique identification information of the item supply device 1, the first identification information 11 includes link information that links to a means for acquiring the second identification information 12 (for example, an input screen for inputting the second identification information 12). This allows the first identification information 11 read by the terminal 3 to be passed to a means for authenticating the second identification information 12, and the first identification information 11 and the second identification information 12 can be linked. If the magazine (product 4) is an electronic book, the terminal 3 can function as a reader of the electronic book. In such a case, if the electronic book itself includes the second identification information 12 and is provided with a function to read the first identification information 11, the first identification information 11 and the second identification information 12 can be linked.

[0028] As for determining the conditions (2) and (3), a typical example is a method in which a management device capable of communicating with terminal 3 acquires first identification information 11 and second identification information 12, and determines whether or not item supply device 1 can supply item 2 based on first identification information 11 (including identifying item supply device 1), and authenticates second identification information 12.

[0029] (4) Payment of the price can be made by cash or electronic payment. Here, cash payment refers to paying the price of goods with cash such as coins or banknotes. Electronic payment refers to paying the price of goods by sending and receiving electronic monetary value data. There is no restriction on the type of electronic payment, but it can be an access type using a credit card or the like, or a stored value type such as electronic money. In the case of cash payment, a cash acceptance unit provided in the goods supply device 1 accepts cash (coins) and makes the payment. In the case of payment by electronic payment, in response to a payment operation by the user, the terminal 3 and the management device 5 communicate with each other and perform a payment process to settle and update the price using the user's credit card or electronic money.

[0030] Regarding the supply of goods by the goods supply device 1, if payment is made in cash, the management device, having determined the first identification information 11 and authenticated the second identification information 12, transmits a supply permission signal to the goods supply device 1 identified by the first identification information 11. The cash acceptance unit of the goods supply device 1, having received the supply permission signal, activates the function of the coin sorting unit of the goods supply device 1, enabling cash payment. Then, once cash payment is completed, it enables goods to be supplied from the supply unit. Furthermore, if payment is made in electronic payment, the management device determines the first identification information 11, authenticates the second identification information 12, and performs electronic payment, and transmits an unlock signal to the goods supply device 1 identified by the first identification information 11. The supply unit of the goods supply device 1, having received the unlock signal, unlocks the goods supply, enabling the supply of goods 2 to the user. Furthermore, the management device may be on a network capable of communicating with the goods supply device 1, or may be provided by the goods supply device 1 itself. In addition, if the item supply device 1 and terminal 3 are capable of communicating via Wifi, Bluetooth, etc., the terminal 3 may receive information indicating completion of judgment and authentication from the management device, and then send an unlock signal to the item supply device 1.

[0031] In this way, this embodiment can supply goods to users in a variety of ways resulting from various actions of the users, and can meet the needs of various consumers, such as users who receive goods and companies that wish to use the goods supply device. Specific embodiments will be described below.

[0032] <First embodiment of the present invention> A first embodiment of the present invention will be described. The goods supply system in the first embodiment is a system that realizes a collaboration (joint project) that is beneficial to both company X, which supplies goods to users, and company Y, which supplies merchandise to users.

[0033] For example, a collaboration project may involve selling a specific product from Company X exclusively to users who have purchased products from Company Y. In this case, the collaboration between Company X and Company Y must be beneficial to both companies.

[0034] Company Y benefits from having many users purchase its products. Therefore, if a user is attracted to an item from Company X and purchases Company Y's product in order to obtain that item, Company Y benefits because many users will end up purchasing its products.

[0035] On the other hand, Company X benefits from letting users know about not only Company X's specific products but also other products that Company X offers, and even from having users purchase other products. To achieve this, it is necessary to guide users to locations where product supply devices that supply a wide variety of products are installed, and to make users aware that a wide variety of products is supplied. Therefore, it is desirable that products sold exclusively to users who have purchased Company Y's products be supplied to users from a product supply device that is actually installed, rather than being sold over the Internet via an online shop or the like and delivered to users. Therefore, the first embodiment is configured as follows. Note that the payment method for the price in this embodiment is cash payment.

[0036] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the article supply system according to the first embodiment. In Fig. 2, the same components as those in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same numbers.

[0037] 2, the item supply device 1, the user terminal 3, and the management device 5 are connected to a communication network 6 and can communicate with each other. The communication network 6 refers to a communication path that allows data communication. In other words, the communication network 6 includes a LAN such as a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for connection or Ethernet (registered trademark), as well as a communication network such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, or the Internet, and the communication method can be either wired or wireless.

[0038] The product supply device 1 is a device that supplies the product 2. The product 2 is supplied exclusively to users who have purchased the magazine 4.

[0039] The terminal 3 may be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or a mobile phone. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of a smartphone, which is an example of the terminal 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal 3 includes a display 31, a touch operation panel 32 integral with the display 31, and a built-in speaker 33 and camera 34. The terminal 3 also includes a control board, a built-in battery, a power button, a volume control button, and the like, which are not shown. The control board is equipped with various microprocessors such as a CPU, GPU, and DSP, various IC memories such as an ASIC, VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a wireless communication module for wireless communication with a mobile phone base station. The control board is also equipped with a so-called I / F circuit (interface circuit), such as a driver circuit for the touch operation panel 32. These elements mounted on the control board are electrically connected to each other via a bus circuit or the like, and are connected to enable data reading and writing and signal transmission and reception.

[0040] Magazine 4 is a product supplied (sold) to users by Company Y. Magazine 4 contains a serial code that certifies the user's right to purchase item 2 (limited purchase right), so that item 2 is sold (supplied) exclusively to users who purchase magazine 4. This serial code is a unique serial code that differs for each copy of magazine 4. Such a serial code can be generated using a check digit or other means. A single magazine 4 may contain multiple serial codes, rather than just one. The multiple serial codes may be divided into serial codes that can be used for each type of item, or multiple serial codes that can be used for all items eligible for limited purchase, regardless of the type of item. If a user has multiple serial codes that can be used for all items eligible for limited purchase, each serial code grants the right to purchase one item exclusively, and the user can purchase as many items as the number of serial codes. In this case, the user may purchase multiple copies of the same item, or different types of items with limited purchase rights.

[0041] The management device 5 is a server system configured to include one or more server devices, storage devices, etc. The management device 5 performs processes such as identifying the item supply device 1 that supplies the item, authenticating the second identification information 12, etc.

[0042] Next, the configuration of each device will be described. FIG. 4 is a front view of an example of the article supply device 1, FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of the article supply device 1, and FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the article supply device 1. As shown in FIG.

[0043] The article supply device 1 is a device that supplies an article 2.

[0044] Item 2 is an item that is the subject of a collaboration between Company X and Company Y. By purchasing Company Y's magazine 4, a user can obtain limited purchase rights for Item 2 supplied by Company X. Item 2 includes, for example, a toy or the like contained in a divisible spherical capsule, or a toy and capsule combined. Item 2 is not limited to one type of item, and there may be multiple types of items. In this case, the multiple types of items are stored together in an item storage section 20 of item supply device 1, which will be described later, as items belonging to one series (type).

[0045] The front of the item supply device 1 is provided with a display 13 that displays the contents of the item 2, an insertion slot 14 for coins to be paid for the item 2, a handle 15 as an operation unit, an outlet 16 through which the item 2 is supplied, and a coin return slot 17. By visually checking the display 13, the user can know that the item supply device 1 is an item supply device 1 that can supply the item 2 that is the subject of a collaboration between company X and company Y.

[0046] First identification information 11 (information display: QR code) is displayed on the front of the item supply device 1. The first identification information 11 includes at least unique item supply device identification information (device ID) for identifying the item supply device 1 and a uniform resource locator (URL), which is link information to a page for authenticating the second identification information 12 listed in the magazine 4. In addition to the above, the first identification information 11 may also include other information, such as location information and store name for identifying the location where the item supply device 1 is installed, item identification information (item ID) for identifying the item, information such as the price of the item, and management information required for managing the item supply device 1. In addition, although the present example employs a method of displaying the first identification information 11 by attaching a QR code as an information display to the front of the item supply device 1, this is not a limitation. For example, if the item supply device 1 has a display unit such as a liquid crystal display, the information display for the first identification information 11 may be displayed on the display unit. Furthermore, the location where the first identification information 11 is displayed is not limited to the front of the item supply device 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the mark may be displayed in the vicinity of the return slot 17 at a position where the bottom surface of the return slot 17 can be clearly seen.

[0047] The article supply device 1 includes an article storage unit 20, an article supply unit 21, a lock unit 22, an operation unit 23, a control unit 24, a cash acceptance unit 25, and a communication unit 26. The article storage section 20 stores a large number of articles 2. The article storage section 20 is configured to easily store articles by pulling the article storage section 20 toward you and inserting the article 2 from in front of the article supply device 1. At the bottom of the article storage section 20, an article supply section 21 is installed, which has a turntable with a hole large enough for one article 2 to pass through.

[0048] The operating unit 23 transmits the operation of the handle 15 to the turntable of the article supply unit 21. The operating unit 23 is locked by the locking unit 22, and when the lock is released, the handle 15 becomes rotatable by the user's operation. As a mechanism for releasing the lock, for example, an unlocking mechanism using a solenoid lock is used. In this case, the solenoid lock is used to put the handle 15 into an unrotatable state (locked state), and the lock is released by energizing the solenoid, making the handle 15 rotatable. Note that the unlocking mechanism is not limited to a solenoid locking mechanism, and other unlocking mechanisms may be used. Then, when the locking unit 22 is in the unlocked state, rotating the handle 15 a predetermined angle causes the turntable to rotate in conjunction with the operation. When the hole in the turntable faces the drop opening provided at the bottom of the article storage unit 20, one article 2 is supplied from the drop opening to the outlet 16 through a passage communicating with the outlet 16.

[0049] The control unit 24 controls the locking and unlocking of the lock unit 22. The control unit 24 unlocks the lock unit 22 in response to an unlock signal from the cash acceptance unit 25. The control unit 24 also locks the lock unit 22 after detecting that an item 2 has been discharged into the outlet 16, or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the lock was released. Furthermore, the control unit 24 may lock the lock unit 22 in response to a lock signal controlled externally.

[0050] The cash acceptance unit 25 accepts cash. When the cash acceptance unit 25 receives a supply permission signal from the management device 5, it switches the function of a coin sorting unit (not shown), which sorts inserted coins, from an initial inactive state (off state) to an active state (on state). The path of coins inserted from the coin slot 14 passes through an internal coin sorting unit (not shown) and is divided into two paths: one leading to the return slot 17 and the other leading to a storage unit (not shown) where the coins are stored. When the coin sorting unit is in an inactive state, the inserted coin passes directly through the coin sorting unit and is discharged from the return slot 17. When the coin sorting unit is in an active state, the coin sorting unit sorts the coins, sending coins that can be used for payment to the storage unit (not shown) and discharging inappropriate coins from the return slot 17. The coin sorting unit also separates coins that can be used for payment by type. The cash accepting unit 25 counts the number of coins of each type sorted by the coin sorting unit using a sensor and obtains the amount of money inserted. When the amount of money inserted reaches the set price of the item 2, the cash accepting unit 25 sends an unlock signal to the control unit 24. The price (amount) of the item is set in the cash accepting unit 25 by the management device 5 or manually. The communication unit 26 is capable of communicating with the management device 5 via the communication network 6 .

[0051] Next, the configuration of the terminal 3 will be described.

[0052] Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of terminal 3. As shown in Fig. 7, terminal 3 includes an operation input unit 301, an image capturing unit 302, a processing unit 303, an image display unit 304, a sound output unit 305, a communication unit 306, and a storage unit 307.

[0053] The operation input unit 301 is used to input various operations by the user, and outputs an operation input signal corresponding to the operation input to the processing unit 303. The functions of the operation input unit 301 can be realized by, for example, elements that are directly operated by the user's fingers, such as a touch operation pad, a home button, a button switch, a joystick, or a trackball, as well as elements that detect movement or posture, such as an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a tilt sensor, or a geomagnetic sensor. In FIG. 3, this corresponds to the touch operation panel 32.

[0054] The photographing unit 302 photographs the information display (QR code) of the first identification information 11 and outputs the photographed image to the processing unit 303. The photographing unit 302 includes a lens, an image sensor, and a controller for controlling these. In FIG. 3, this corresponds to the camera 34.

[0055] The processing unit 303 comprehensively controls the operation of the terminal 3 based on programs and data stored in the memory unit 307, operation input signals from the operation input unit 301, etc. The functions of the processing unit 303 can be realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, an ASIC, an IC memory, etc. The processing unit 303 includes a calculation unit 51, an image generation unit 52, a sound generation unit 53, and a communication control unit 54 as its main functional units.

[0056] The calculation unit 51 outputs to the image generation unit 52, the sound generation unit 53, and the communication control unit 54. The calculation unit 51 includes an information display acquisition unit 510, a serial code acquisition unit 511, and a supply information guidance unit 512.

[0057] The information display object acquisition unit 510 reads the information display object of the article supply device 1 photographed by the photographing unit 302 and acquires the first identification information 11.

[0058] The serial code acquisition unit 511 transmits a request for transmission of a serial code input screen including the acquired device ID based on the first identification information 11 acquired by the information display acquisition unit 510. In this embodiment, the destination (link destination) of this request is the management device 5. Then, the serial code input screen is received, and the serial code input screen is displayed on the image display unit 304 via the image generation unit 52. The serial code input on the serial code input screen is also transmitted to the management device 5.

[0059] The supply information notification unit 512 displays the result of serial code authentication from the management device 5, information about the supply of goods, and information about errors (supply not possible) on the image display unit 304 via the image generation unit 52.

[0060] The functions of the information display acquisition unit 510, the serial code acquisition unit 511, and the supply information guidance unit 512 can be realized by a web browser installed on the terminal 3, or can also be realized by a dedicated application.

[0061] The image generation unit 52 generates one image per frame time (for example, 1 / 60 seconds) based on the processing result of the calculation unit 51, and outputs the generated image signal to the image display unit 304. The function of the image generation unit 52 can be realized by, for example, a processor such as a GPU or a digital signal processor (DSP), a video signal IC, a program such as a video codec, an IC memory for drawing frames such as a frame buffer, an IC memory used for expanding texture data, etc.

[0062] The sound generation unit 53 generates sound signals such as sound effects and various operation sounds based on the processing results of the calculation unit 51, and outputs them to the sound output unit 305. The function of the sound generation unit 53 can be realized by, for example, a processor such as a digital signal processor (DSP) or a voice synthesis IC, or an audio codec capable of reproducing audio files.

[0063] The communication control unit 54 performs communication connection and data processing for data communication with the management device 5 and the like.

[0064] Image display unit 304 displays a screen based on the image signal input from image generation unit 52. The function of image display unit 304 can be realized by a display device such as a flat panel display, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a projector, or a head-mounted display. In FIG. 2, image display unit 304 corresponds to display 31.

[0065] The sound output unit 305 outputs sound effects and the like based on the sound signal input from the sound generation unit 53. In FIG.

[0066] The communication unit 306 realizes communication by connecting to the communication line N. The function of the communication unit 306 can be realized by, for example, a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack for a wired communication cable, a control circuit, or the like.

[0067] The storage unit 307 stores in advance or temporarily stores each time processing is performed programs for operating the terminal 3 and realizing various functions of the terminal 3, as well as data used during execution of these programs. The storage unit 307 can be realized by, for example, RAM, ROM, IC memory such as flash memory, magnetic disks such as hard disks, or optical disks such as CD-ROMs and DVDs. Specifically, the storage unit 307 stores a system program and a control program. The system program is a program for realizing the basic functions of the terminal 3 as a computer. The control program is a program for causing the processing unit 31 to function as the calculation unit 51 (information display acquisition unit 510, serial code acquisition unit 511, supply information presentation unit 512).

[0068] Next, the management device 5 will be described. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 5. The management device 5 includes a storage unit 61, a processing unit 62, and a communication unit 63.

[0069] The storage unit 61 is realized by, for example, RAM, ROM, IC memory such as flash memory, magnetic disk such as hard disk, optical disk such as CD-ROM or DVD, etc., and stores system programs and function programs. The system programs are programs for realizing the basic functions of a computer. The function programs are programs for causing the processing unit 62 to function as an item supply device determination unit 621, a purchase right authentication unit 622, and a supply control unit 623, which will be described later. Also stored are item supply device data D1 and serial code data D2, which will be described later.

[0070] The item supply device data D1 stores the device ID of an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2 that is the subject of collaboration between company X and company Y, and the item ID, price, and inventory quantity of item 2 of that item supply device 1. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the item supply device data D1. As shown in Fig. 9, the item supply device data D1 stores the device ID of an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2 that is the subject of collaboration between company X and company Y, and the item ID, price, and inventory quantity of item 2 that is supplied by the item supply device 1 of that device ID, in association with each other.

[0071] The serial code data D2 stores a serial code printed on a magazine 4 sold by company Y. A unique serial code is assigned to each magazine 4, and the serial code is a unique code number. Such a serial code can be generated using a check digit or the like. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the serial code data D2. As shown in FIG. 10, the serial code data D2 stores a unique serial code associated with an authentication flag. As will be described later, when the purchasing right authentication unit 622 authenticates the user's limited purchasing right using the serial code, and payment for the item is completed and the item 2 is supplied from the item supply device 1, an authenticated flag indicating that authentication has been completed is assigned to the authentication flag field of the serial code.

[0072] The processing unit 62 performs overall control of the operation of the management device 5 based on the programs and data stored in the memory unit 61. The functions of the processing unit 62 can be realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, an ASIC, or an IC memory. The processing unit 62 has, as its main functional units, an item supply device determination unit 621, a purchase right authentication unit 622, and a supply control unit 623.

[0073] The item supply device determination unit 621 receives a serial code input screen request from the terminal 3, acquires the device ID included in the request, and determines whether the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If the item supply ID is included in the item supply device data D1, the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device with the acquired device ID is an item supply device that can supply item 2, which is the subject of collaboration with the magazine 4, and checks the inventory of the item supply device 1 with that device ID. If there is inventory, the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 with the device ID acquired by the user is an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2, which is the subject of collaboration with the magazine 4. The item supply device determination unit 621 then identifies the item supply device 1 to which the supply permission signal is to be sent. Upon completion of the determination and identification, the item supply device determination unit 621 transmits a serial code input screen to the terminal 3. On the other hand, if the item is not included in the item supply device data D1, or if it is included in the item supply device data D1 but is out of stock, the item supply device determination unit 621 transmits an error screen to the terminal 3 informing that supply of item 2 is not possible. Furthermore, a supply period during which the item supply device 1 can supply the item 2 is determined in advance, and even if a request for a serial code input screen is received from the terminal 3 after the supply period has elapsed, an error screen is sent to the terminal 3 informing the user that the item 2 cannot be supplied.

[0074] The purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the serial code entered on the input screen with the serial code in the serial code data D2, and if the serial code entered on the input screen is included in the serial code data D2 and the authentication flag is not set for that serial code, it authenticates the serial code entered on the input screen and the user's limited purchase right. Then, it transmits guidance information informing the user about the supply of the product to the user's terminal 3. If an expiration date is set for the serial code, the purchase right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. On the other hand, if the purchase right authentication unit 622 cannot authenticate the serial code (including when the expiration date has expired and authentication is not possible), it transmits an error screen to the terminal 3 informing the user that the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be authenticated.

[0075] The operation of the item supply system of this embodiment will be described.

[0076] Fig. 11 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system of this embodiment, Fig. 12 is a flowchart of the management device 5 in this embodiment, and Fig. 13 is a flowchart of the item supply device 1 in this embodiment. In the following description, the item supply device data D1 is assumed to be that shown in Fig. 9, and the serial code data D2 is assumed to be that shown in Fig. 10.

[0077] First, the overall flow of the goods supply system will be described using the sequence diagram of FIG.

[0078] The user goes to a location where an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2 that is exclusively supplied to purchasers of magazine 4 is installed, and acquires the information display of first identification information 11 displayed on the item supply device 1. The acquisition of the information display is performed using the photographing function of the photographing unit 302 of the terminal 3 in response to a user's operation (Step 1). FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of photographing the information display of first identification information 11 on the item supply device 1 by the photographing unit 302 of the terminal 3. The user stands in front of the item supply device 1, operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of first identification information 11 is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, and acquires a photograph of the information display.

[0079] The information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 acquires the first identification information 11 from the information display of the photographed first identification information 11. In this example, the acquired first identification information 11 includes the device ID of the item supply device 1, and is link destination information (e.g., a URL) to means for authenticating the serial code 12 (Step 2). In this example, it is assumed that the acquired device ID is "12560" and that the link destination is set to the management device 5.

[0080] The serial code acquisition unit 511 of the terminal 3 transmits a request for transmission of a serial code input screen to the management device 5 based on the link destination including the device ID of the item supply device 1 (Step 3).

[0081] The management device 5 receives the request from the terminal 3 and performs a supply determination process (Step 4). The supply determination process will be described in detail later.

[0082] When terminal 3 does not receive the error information screen from management device 5 but receives the serial code input screen, serial code acquisition unit 511 of terminal 3 displays the serial code input screen (Step 5). FIG. 15 is an example of the serial code input screen displayed on terminal 3. The user inputs the serial code into the displayed input screen (Step 6). In this example, it is assumed that the user inputs the serial code "1VB3588" into the serial code input screen. Then, serial code acquisition unit 511 transmits the serial code to management device 5 (Step 7).

[0083] The management device 5 receives the serial code and performs a supply determination process (Step 4). The supply determination process will be described in detail later.

[0084] If the terminal 3 does not receive an error guidance screen from the management device 5 but receives guidance information from the management device 5, it displays the guidance information (Step 8). Fig. 16 is an example of the guidance information displayed on the terminal 3. The guidance information in Fig. 16 informs the user that the serial code has been authenticated, that they should insert cash to pay the price, that they should operate the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute.

[0085] Meanwhile, the goods supply device 1 receives the supply permission signal, settles the price in cash, and executes a supply process to supply the goods (Step 9). The user inserts cash to pay the price according to the guidance information displayed on the terminal 3, and operates the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods. The goods supply device 1 then transmits a supply report to the management device 5. Details of the supply process (Step 9) will be described later.

[0086] The purchasing right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives the supply report, and if the supply report is a report that the item has been supplied successfully, adds an authenticated flag to the authentication flag field of the corresponding serial code in the serial code data D2, indicating that authentication has been completed, and makes the serial code unable to be used again (Step 10). Also, the inventory quantity of the item supply device 1 that sent the supply report is reduced by one. This concludes the description of the overall operation.

[0087] Next, the supply determination process (Step 4) of the management device 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0088] When the item supply device determination unit 621 of the management device 5 receives a request from the terminal 3 (Step 100), it acquires the device ID included in the request (Step 101). In this example, the acquired device ID is "12560".

[0089] The item supply device determination unit 621 determines the device ID using the item supply device data D1 (Step 102). The device ID is determined by determining whether the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 103), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 with the device ID acquired by the user is an item supply device 1 that can supply the item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with the magazine 4, and identifies the item supply device 1 that will send a supply permission signal. On the other hand, if the acquired device ID is not included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 103), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 with the device ID acquired by the user is not an item supply device 1 that can supply the item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with the magazine 4, and sends error guidance information to the terminal 3 (Step 110). FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of error guidance information for an item supply device. In this example, the acquired device ID is “12560” and is included in the item supply device data D1, so it is determined that the item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID “12560” is an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with magazine 4.

[0090] Next, the item supply device determination unit 621 checks the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 of the acquired device ID (Step 104). If the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is not "0", the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 of the acquired device ID can supply item 2, and identifies the item supply device 1 to which the supply permission signal is to be sent. Then, the item supply device determination unit 621 sends a serial code input screen to the terminal 3 (Step 105). On the other hand, if the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is "0", the item supply device determination unit 621 sends error guidance information to the terminal 3 (Step 110). For example, the item supply device determination unit 621 sends error guidance information such as that shown in FIG. 17 to the terminal 3. In this example, the inventory quantity of the item supply device 1 with the device ID "12560" obtained from the item supply device data D1 is not "0", so a serial code input screen is sent to the terminal 3 (Step 105).

[0091] Next, when the purchasing right authentication unit 622 receives the serial code entered on the input screen (Step 106), it performs authentication processing for the acquired serial code (Step 107). In this example, the acquired serial code is "1VB3588", and the serial code "1VB3588" is the object of authentication.

[0092] The purchasing right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2, and if the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 and the authenticated flag is not set for that serial code, it authenticates the acquired serial code and determines that the user's limited purchasing right for item 2 has been authenticated (Step 108). If an expiration date is set for the serial code, the purchasing right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. If the expiration date of the serial code is valid and the serial code is authenticated, the purchasing right authentication unit 622 transmits guidance information regarding the supply of items (Step 109).

[0093] On the other hand, if the purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2 and finds that the acquired serial code is not included in the serial code data D2, or that the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 but has an authenticated flag attached to it, or that an expiration date has been set for the serial code and the expiration date has expired, the purchase right authentication unit 622 determines that the acquired serial code is inappropriate and does not authenticate it. If the purchase right authentication unit 622 cannot authenticate the serial code (including when the expiration date has expired and authentication is not possible), it sends an error screen to the terminal 3 informing the user that the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be authenticated (Step 110). Figure 18 shows an example of an error screen informing the user that the serial code could not be authenticated.

[0094] In this example, the acquired serial code is "1VB3588", which is included in the serial code data D2 and has not been assigned an authenticated flag. Furthermore, no expiration date is set for the serial code. Therefore, the purchasing right authentication unit 622 determines that the acquired serial code "1VB3588" has been authenticated, and that the user's right to acquire item 2 has been authenticated, and transmits guidance information regarding the supply of the item.

[0095] When the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 with the device ID can supply item 2 and the purchase right authentication unit 622 authenticates the limited purchase right, the supply control unit 623 transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID identified by the item supply device determination unit 621 (Step 111). In this example, the supply control unit 623 transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID "12560". This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process (Step 4) of the management device 5.

[0096] Next, the supply process (Step 9) of the item supply device 1 will be described using the flowchart in FIG. When the control unit 24 of the article supply device 1 receives the supply permission signal (Step 200), it notifies the cash acceptance unit 25 of that fact, and the cash acceptance unit 25 switches the function of the coin selection unit that selects the inserted coins from an OFF state to an ON state (Step 201). The user inserts cash equivalent to the payment. The cash accepting unit 25 determines whether the amount of money inserted reaches the set price of the item (Step 202), and if so, sends an unlock signal to the control unit 24 (Step 203). Upon receiving the unlock signal, the control unit 24 unlocks the lock unit 22 (Step 204). This allows the handle 15 to be operated. The control unit 24 determines whether the handle 15 of the operating unit 23 has been operated (e.g., one rotation) (Step 205). When the handle 15 is operated (e.g., one rotation), one item 2 is supplied from the item supply unit 21 to the outlet 16 (Step 206). The control unit 24 then locks the lock unit 22 (Step 207).

[0097] On the other hand, if the handle 15 is not operated (Step 205), the control unit 24 determines whether a predetermined time (e.g., one minute) has passed since the lock was released (Step 208). If the handle 15 is not operated (Step 205) and the predetermined time (e.g., one minute) has passed since the lock was released (Step 208), the control unit 24 ejects coins equivalent to the inserted amount from the ejection unit (Step 209) and locks the lock unit 22 (Step 207).

[0098] Finally, if item 2 is supplied normally, the control unit 24 issues a supply report stating that item 2 has been supplied normally, and if item 2 is not supplied, it issues a supply report stating that item 2 has not been supplied (Step 210). This concludes the explanation of the supply process (Step 9) of the article supply device 1.

[0099] Furthermore, if a supply period during which the item supply device 1 can supply the item 2 is set, and the item 2 is obtained after that period, or if the location where the item supply device 1 is installed is far from the user, the item 2 may be delivered to the user without the user having to go to the item supply device 1, upon the user's request, subject to authentication of the serial code and payment of the price.

[0100] In this embodiment, first identification information 11 is displayed on the item supply device 1, which serves as a trigger for the user to acquire the item 2 and includes information identifying the item supply device 1 that can supply the item 2 to the user and information for accessing means for acquiring the second identification information. Therefore, the user goes to the location where the item supply device 1 displaying the first identification information 11 is installed. As a result, the user is guided to the installation location of the item supply device 1 and becomes aware of item supply devices that supply other items. The user also learns that various items are supplied in addition to the item being supplied. Furthermore, this embodiment takes user convenience into consideration by enabling authentication of second identification information 12 written on the magazine 4 and payment for the item 2 at the location where the first identification information 11 is acquired. On the other hand, for companies that provide products such as magazines, supplying the item 2 only to purchasers of the product will increase users' desire to purchase the product.

[0101] Therefore, this embodiment can realize a collaboration (joint project) that is beneficial not only for the user who receives the goods, but also for the company that supplies the goods to the user and the company that supplies the product to the user. As a result, this embodiment can meet the needs of various consumers, including not only the user who receives the goods, but also the companies that intend to use the goods supply device.

[0102] In this embodiment, the action of the user who acquires the limited purchase right is the purchase of a magazine 4, and an example has been described in which the second identification information 12 is a serial code written on the magazine 4; however, it is clear that this is not limited to this. For example, the action of the user who acquires the limited purchase right may be participation in an event, and the second identification information 12 may be a serial code given for participating in the event. Also, the action of the user who acquires the limited purchase right may be entry into a lottery, and the second identification information 12 may be a serial code given for winning the lottery. Furthermore, the number of serial codes per magazine 4 is not limited to one; multiple serial codes may be written on one magazine 4. In this case, each serial code confers the right to purchase one item on a limited basis, and the number of items equal to the number of serial codes can be purchased.

[0103] <Modification of the first embodiment> As a modification of the first embodiment, a goods supply system in which payment for the goods 2 is made by electronic payment will be described. In this modified example, the first identification information 11 is judged and the second identification information 12 is authenticated, and the control unit 24 of the item supply device 1 releases the lock in response to an unlock signal from the management device that confirms the completion of electronic payment. 19 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the terminal 3 in this modification. The calculation unit 51 further includes a payment unit 513. The payment unit 513 performs processing related to payment for the item 2 through communication with the management device 5. Fig. 20 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 5 in this modified example. The processing unit 62 further includes a payment management unit 624. The payment management unit 624 performs processing related to payment for the item 2 through communication with the terminal 3. The storage unit 61 further stores user management data D3, which is payment data for each user. The user management data D3 stores user identification information (user ID), a password, and an electronic money balance in association with each other, as shown in Fig. 21, for example.

[0104] FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system according to this modified example. In this modified example, the process up to the point where the management device 5 authenticates the serial code from the terminal 3 in the supply determination process (Figure 11: Step 4, Figure 12: Step 107) is the same as the process described in the above embodiment (Figures 11 and 12), so we will only explain the process thereafter. When the management device 5 authenticates the serial code from the terminal 3, it transmits a payment input screen to the terminal 3 (supply determination process: Step 4). The supply determination process will be described in detail later. Terminal 3 displays the payment input screen received from management device 5 (Step 11). Figure 23 shows an example of the payment input screen displayed on terminal 3. The user enters a user ID and password on the displayed input screen (Step 12). Payment unit 513 of terminal 3 sends the entered user ID and password to management device 5 (Step 13).

[0105] The management device 5 receives the user ID and password and performs a supply determination process (Step 4). The supply determination process will be described in detail later. Here, payment is made using the received user ID and password. Once payment is complete, guidance information is sent to the terminal 3. If the payment result is valid, an unlock signal is sent to the item supply device 1.

[0106] The supply information notification unit 512 of the terminal 3 receives the notification information from the management device 5 and displays the notification information (Step 14). The notification information informs the user that the serial code has been authenticated, that payment has been completed, that the user should operate the handle 15 of the item supply device 1 to receive the item, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute.

[0107] When the article supply device 1 receives the unlock signal, it performs a supply process (Step 15). The user operates the item supply device 1 according to the guidance information and receives the supply of items. The supply process will be described in detail later. The processes after the supply process are the same as those in the above embodiment.

[0108] The supply determination process in this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. Steps 100 to 107 have been described in the supply determination process of the above embodiment (FIG. 12), so the process thereafter will be described. When the serial code is authenticated (Step 108), the settlement management unit 624 sends a settlement input screen (FIG. 23) to the terminal 3 (Step 301). Then, upon receiving the user ID and password entered on the payment input screen (Step 302), the payment management unit 624 performs payment using the received user ID and password and information on the price of the item 2 (Step 303). The information on the price of the item 2 may be obtained from the item supply device data D1, which is information on the price corresponding to the device ID previously received from the terminal 3. In the payment process, first, it is determined using the user management data D3 whether the user ID and password are valid, and if they are valid, the balance corresponding to the received user ID in the user management data D3 is updated with the amount obtained by deducting the received price. If the payment is completed successfully (Step 304), the payment management unit 624 sends guidance information corresponding to the successful result to the terminal 3 (Step 109). Here, the user is informed that the serial code has been authenticated, that the payment has been completed, that the user should operate the handle 15 of the item supply device 1 to receive the item, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute. Then, the supply control unit 623 sends an unlock signal to the terminal 3 (Step 305). In addition, if an error occurs during payment, the payment management unit 624 sends guidance information to the terminal 3 informing the user that payment could not be made along with the details of the error (user ID and password not registered, insufficient balance, etc.) (Step 110). This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process.

[0109] The supply process in this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. In this modification, the supply process differs from that in the above embodiment in that when the control unit receives an unlock signal (Step 401), the control unit unlocks the lock unit 22 (Step 204). Furthermore, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the lock was released (Step 208), the control unit 24 performs a predetermined error process (Step 402) and then locks the lock unit 22 (Step 207), which is different from the supply process in the above embodiment. The error process includes a refund process for refunding the paid price. In the refund process, for example, the control unit 24 sends a request (including, for example, the device ID) to the management device 5 to refund the price of the item 2, and the management device 5 may identify the most recent payment process from those for which the device ID is used as a key and cancel that payment (a process for restoring the electronic money balance of the user ID to the amount before the price was deducted). Another refund process may be, for example, to refund the user by discharging coins equivalent to the price of the item 2 from a dispensing port. The process other than the above differences is the same as the supply process in the above embodiment. This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process.

[0110] <Second embodiment> A second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment of the goods supply system, like the first embodiment, allows a goods supply device 1 to supply a specific item 2 from company X to users who have purchased a product 4 from company Y, provided that the price is paid. However, it differs from the first embodiment in that the first identification information 11 is composed of two pieces of identification information (first type first identification information 111 and second type first identification information 112).

[0111] FIG. 26 is a front view of an example of an item supply device 1. First-type first identification information 111 (information display: QR code) is displayed (printed) on display 13 of item supply device 1. The same display 13 is used for item supply devices 1 that supply the same item. Display 13 displays a description of the item to be supplied, etc. The first-type first identification information 111 includes at least a URL, which is link information to a page for authenticating second identification information 12 listed in magazine 4, and item identification information (item ID). Note that the first-type first identification information 111 may also include information such as the price of the item in addition to the above. Second-type first identification information 112 (information display: QR code) is displayed (printed) on the surface of item supply device 1. The second-type first identification information 112 includes at least unique item supply device identification information (device ID) that identifies item supply device 1. The first type of first identification information 111 and the second type of first identification information 112 are arranged at different positions, with the first type of first identification information 111 being arranged at a higher position than the second type of first identification information 112.

[0112] The storage unit 61 of the management device 5 further stores supply item data D4. Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the supply item data D4. The supply item data D4 associates the item ID and price of item 2 that is the subject of collaboration between company X and company Y. The other configurations of the devices are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0113] The overall flow of the item supply system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG.

[0114] The user goes to a location where an item supply device 1 capable of supplying item 2 that is supplied exclusively to purchasers of magazine 4 is installed, and acquires an information display of first identification information 111 of the first type displayed on that item supply device 1. The acquisition of the information display is performed using the photographing function of the photographing unit 302 of the terminal 3 in response to a user's operation (Step 21). The user operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of first identification information 111 of the first type is displayed on the display 13 of any one of multiple item supply devices 1 capable of supplying item 2, and acquires a photograph of the information display.

[0115] The information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 acquires the first type of first identification information 111 from the photographed information display of the first type of first identification information 111. In this example, the acquired first type of first identification information 111 is link destination information (e.g., URL) to means for authenticating the serial code 12 and the item ID of the item 2 (Step 22). In this example, it is assumed that the link destination is set to the management device 5.

[0116] Based on the link destination, the serial code acquisition unit 511 of the terminal 3 transmits a request including the item ID to the management device 5, requesting transmission of a serial code input screen (Step 23).

[0117] The management device 5 receives the request from the terminal 3 and performs authentication processing (Step 24). Details of the authentication processing will be described later.

[0118] When terminal 3 receives the serial code input screen, serial code acquisition unit 511 of terminal 3 displays the serial code input screen (Step 25). The user inputs the serial code into the displayed input screen (Step 26). In this example, it is assumed that the user inputs the serial code "1VB3588" into the serial code input screen. Then, serial code acquisition unit 511 transmits the serial code to management device 5 (Step 27).

[0119] The management device 5 receives the serial code and performs authentication processing (Step 24). Details of the authentication processing will be described later.

[0120] If the terminal 3 does not receive the error guide screen from the management device 5 but receives the input screen for the second type of first identification information 112 from the management device 5, the terminal 3 displays the received input screen (Step 28). The user operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of the second type of first identification information 112 of any one of the multiple item supply devices 1 capable of supplying the item 2 (this may be an item supply device 1 different from the item supply device 1 on which the information display of the read first type of first identification information 111 is displayed), is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, and photographs the information display (Step 29).

[0121] The information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 acquires the second type of first identification information 112 from the photographed information display of the second type of first identification information 112 (Step 30). In this example, the acquired second type of first identification information 112 includes the device ID ("12560") of the item supply device 1 and link destination information (e.g., URL) that links to the management device 5. The information acquisition unit 510 transmits the device ID ("12560") to the management device 5 based on the link destination (Step 31).

[0122] The management device 5 receives the device ID from the terminal 3 and performs a supply determination process (Step 32). The supply determination process will be described in detail later.

[0123] When the supply information presentation unit 512 of the terminal 3 receives the presentation information, it displays the presentation information (Step 33). Fig. 16 is an example of the presentation information displayed on the terminal 3. The presentation information in Fig. 16 informs the user that the serial code has been authenticated, that they should insert cash to pay the price, that they should operate the handle 15 of the item supply device 1 to receive the item, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute.

[0124] Meanwhile, the goods supply device 1 receives the supply permission signal, settles the payment, and executes a supply process to supply the goods (Step 34). The user follows the guidance information displayed on the terminal 3 to insert cash to pay the payment, and operates the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods. The goods supply device 1 then sends a supply report to the management device 5. The supply process (Step 34) is the same as the supply process in the first embodiment (FIG. 13).

[0125] The purchasing right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives the supply report, and if the supply report is a report that the item has been supplied successfully, adds an authenticated flag to the authentication flag field of the corresponding serial code in the serial code data D2, indicating that authentication has been completed, and makes the serial code unable to be used again (Step 35). Also, the inventory quantity of the item supply device 1 that sent the supply report is reduced by one. This concludes the description of the overall operation.

[0126] Next, the authentication process (Step 24) of the management device 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the purchasing right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives a request from the terminal 3 (Step 400), it acquires the item ID included in the request and determines whether the acquired item ID is included in the supply item data D4 (Step 410). If the acquired item ID is not included in the supply item data D4, it sends an error screen displaying a message indicating that the first type of first identification information is incorrect (Step 406). On the other hand, if the acquired item ID is included in the supply item data D4, it determines that the item ID is correct and sends a serial code input screen to the terminal 3 (Step 401). Next, when the purchasing right authentication unit 622 receives the serial code entered on the input screen (Step 402), it performs authentication processing for the acquired serial code (Step 403). In this example, the acquired serial code is "1VB3588", and the serial code "1VB3588" is the object of authentication. The purchase right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2, and if the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 and the authenticated flag is not set for that serial code, it authenticates the acquired serial code and determines that the user's limited purchase right for item 2 has been authenticated (Step 404). If an expiration date is set for the serial code, the purchase right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. If the expiration date of the serial code is valid and the serial code is authenticated, the purchase right authentication unit 622 sends an input screen for the second type of first identification information (Step 405).

[0127] On the other hand, if the result of comparing the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2 shows that the acquired serial code is not included in the serial code data D2, or that the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 but has an authenticated flag attached to it, or if an expiration date has been set for the serial code and the expiration date has expired, the purchase right authentication unit 622 determines that the acquired serial code is inappropriate and does not authenticate it. If the purchase right authentication unit 622 cannot authenticate the serial code (including when the expiration date has expired and authentication is not possible), it sends an error screen to the terminal 3 informing the user that the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be authenticated (Step 406). Figure 18 shows an example of an error screen informing the user that the serial code could not be authenticated.

[0128] Next, the supply determination process (Step 32) of the management device 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The item supply device determination unit 621 of the management device 5 receives the second type of first identification information from the terminal 3 (Step 500). In this example, the received device ID is "12560". The item supply device determination unit 621 determines the device ID using the item supply device data D1 (Step 501). The device ID determination is performed by determining whether the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 with the device ID acquired by the user is an item supply device 1 that can supply the item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with the magazine 4, and identifies the item supply device 1 that will send a supply permission signal. On the other hand, if the acquired device ID is not included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), the unit determines that the item supply device 1 with the device ID acquired by the user is not an item supply device 1 that can supply the item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with the magazine 4, and sends error guidance information to the terminal 3 (Step 505). FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of error guidance information for an item supply device. In this example, the acquired device ID is “12560” and is included in the item supply device data D1, so it is determined that the item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID “12560” is an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with magazine 4.

[0129] Next, the item supply device determination unit 621 checks the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 of the acquired device ID (Step 503). If the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is not "0", the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 of the acquired device ID can supply item 2, and identifies the item supply device 1 to which the supply permission signal should be sent. Then, the item supply device determination unit 621 transmits guidance information regarding item supply (Step 504). On the other hand, if the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is "0", error guidance information is transmitted to the terminal 3 (Step 505). For example, error guidance information such as that shown in FIG. 31 is transmitted to the terminal 3.

[0130] When the limited purchase right is authenticated by the purchase right authentication unit 622 and the item supply device determination unit 621 determines that the item supply device 1 with the device ID can supply item 2, the supply control unit 623 transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID identified by the item supply device determination unit 621 (Step 506). In this example, the supply control unit 623 transmits the supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID "12560". This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process (Step 32) of the management device 5.

[0131] The second embodiment has the following advantages in addition to the advantages of the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, first identification information of a first type that is common to all items and first identification information of a second type that is unique to the item supply device are used separately. By doing so, when changing the item stored in the storage section of the item supply device to another item, it is only necessary to change the first identification information of the first type displayed on the display 13 of the item supply device without changing the first identification information of the second type displayed on the item supply device, thereby reducing the workload on the operator of the system. Furthermore, by separating the authentication of the second identification information (serial code) from the identification of the item supply device, it is possible to prevent one item supply device from being occupied by one user for a long period of time.

[0132] <Modification 1 of the Second Embodiment> As a first modification of the second embodiment, an item supply system will be described in which the order of acquiring first identification information of the first type, first identification information of the second type, and second identification information is as follows: first, first identification information of the first type, then first identification information of the second type, and then second identification information. In the first modification of the second embodiment, an example will be described in which the first identification information of the first type and the second identification information are two-dimensional barcodes (QR codes), and the second identification information (serial code) is displayed on the magazine as a one-dimensional barcode. The overall flow of the item supply system according to the first modified example of the second embodiment will be described using the sequence diagram of Fig. 32. In Fig. 32, the same steps as those in the second embodiment are assigned the same step numbers as those in the sequence diagram of Fig. 28.

[0133] The user operates the terminal 3 to photograph the information display of the first type of first identification information 111 displayed on the item supply device 1 (Step 21). The information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 starts a driver that reads a two-dimensional barcode (QR code) and acquires the first type of first identification information 111 from the photographed information display of the first type of first identification information 111. In this example, the acquired first type of first identification information 111 includes link destination information (e.g., a URL) to the management device 5 and the item ID of the item 2 (Step 22).

[0134] Based on the link destination, the information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 transmits a request including the item ID to the management device 5, requesting transmission of an input screen for the second type of first identification information 112 (Step 23).

[0135] The management device 5 receives the request from the terminal 3 and performs an authentication / provision determination process (Step 40). The authentication / provision determination process will be described in detail later.

[0136] When the terminal 3 receives the input screen for the second type of first identification information 112, it receives and displays the input screen for the second type of first identification information 112 (Step 28). The user operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of the second type of first identification information 112 of any one of the multiple item supply devices 1 capable of supplying item 2 is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, and photographs the information display (Step 29).

[0137] The information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 acquires the second type of first identification information 112 from the information display of the photographed second type of first identification information 112 using a two-dimensional barcode (QR code) driver. In this example, the acquired second type of first identification information 111 includes link destination information to the management device 5 and a device ID. The information acquisition unit 510 transmits the device ID to the management device 5 based on the link destination (Step 31). The management device 5 receives the device ID from the terminal 3 and performs authentication and supply determination processing (Step 40). Here, the management device 5 transmits a serial code input screen. The serial code acquisition unit 511 of the terminal 3 displays a serial code input screen (Step 25). In this example, the serial code is a barcode displayed on a magazine. The user operates the terminal 3 so that the serial code barcode displayed on the magazine is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, and photographs the barcode (Step 26). The serial code acquisition unit 511 starts a driver for reading one-dimensional barcodes, acquires a serial code from the photographed image of the barcode, and transmits the serial code to the management device 5 (Step 27).

[0138] The management device 5 receives the serial code and performs authentication and supply processing (Step 40). Here, the management device 5 transmits guidance information based on the authentication result of the serial code.

[0139] When the supply information presentation unit 512 of the terminal 3 receives the presentation information, it displays the presentation information (Step 33). Fig. 16 is an example of the presentation information displayed on the terminal 3. The presentation information in Fig. 16 informs the user that the serial code has been authenticated, that they should insert cash to pay the price, that they should operate the handle 15 of the item supply device 1 to receive the item, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute.

[0140] Meanwhile, the goods supply device 1 receives the supply permission signal, settles the payment, and executes a supply process to supply the goods (Step 34). The user follows the guidance information displayed on the terminal 3 to insert cash to pay the payment, and operates the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods. The goods supply device 1 then sends a supply report to the management device 5. The supply process (Step 34) is the same as the supply process in the first embodiment (FIG. 13).

[0141] The purchasing right authentication unit 622 of the management device 5 receives the supply report, and if the supply report is a report that the item has been supplied successfully, adds an authenticated flag to the authentication flag field of the corresponding serial code in the serial code data D2, indicating that authentication has been completed, and makes the serial code unable to be used again (Step 35). Also, the inventory quantity of the item supply device 1 that sent the supply report is reduced by one. This concludes the description of the overall operation.

[0142] Next, the authentication and supply determination process (Step 40) of the management device 5 will be described using the flowchart in Fig. 33. In Fig. 33, the same processes (Steps) as the authentication process (Fig. 29) and supply determination process (Fig. 30) of the second embodiment are assigned the same step numbers as in the flowcharts in Figs. 29 and 30. When the item supply device determination unit 621 of the management device 5 receives a request from the terminal 3 (Step 400), it acquires the item ID included in the request and determines whether the acquired item ID is included in the supply item data D4 (Step 410). If the acquired item ID is not included in the supply item data D4, it sends an error screen displaying a message indicating that the first type of first identification information is incorrect (Step 505). On the other hand, if the acquired item ID is included in the supply item data D4, it determines that the item ID is correct and sends an input screen for the second type of first identification information to the terminal 3 (Step 405).

[0143] Next, when the item supply device determination unit 621 receives the second type of first identification information (device ID) from the terminal 3 (Step 500), it determines the device ID using the item supply device data D1 (Step 501). If the acquired device ID is not included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), it is determined that the item supply device 1 with the device ID acquired by the user is not an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with magazine 4, and error notification information is sent to terminal 3 (Step 505).On the other hand, if the acquired device ID is included in the item supply device data D1 (Step 502), it is determined that the item supply device 1 with the device ID acquired by the user is an item supply device 1 that can supply item 2 that is the subject of collaboration with magazine 4, and the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID is confirmed (Step 503). If the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is "0", the item supply device determination unit 621 sends error guidance information to the terminal 3 (Step 505). On the other hand, if the inventory quantity for the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is not "0", it determines that the item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID can supply the item 2. Then, it sends a serial code input screen (including a command to start a driver that reads the one-dimensional barcode) to the terminal 3 (Step 401).

[0144] Next, upon receiving the serial code (Step 402), the purchasing right authentication unit 622 performs authentication processing for the acquired serial code (Step 403). The purchasing right authentication unit 622 compares the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2, and if the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 and the authenticated flag is not set for that serial code, it authenticates the acquired serial code and determines that the user's limited purchasing right for item 2 has been authenticated (Step 404). If an expiration date is set for the serial code, the purchasing right authentication unit 622 also authenticates the expiration date of the serial code entered on the input screen. If the expiration date of the serial code is valid and the serial code is authenticated, the purchasing right authentication unit 622 transmits guidance information regarding item supply (Step 504). In addition, it transmits a supply permission signal to the item supply device 1 with the device ID identified by the item supply device determination unit 621 (Step 506).

[0145] On the other hand, as a result of comparing the acquired serial code with the serial code in the serial code data D2, if the acquired serial code is not included in the serial code data D2, or if the acquired serial code is included in the serial code data D2 but has an authenticated flag attached to it, if an expiration date has been set for the serial code and the expiration date has expired, the purchase right authentication unit 622 sends an error screen to the terminal 3 informing that the serial code (limited purchase right) could not be authenticated (Step 406). This concludes the explanation of the authentication and supply determination process (Step 40) of the management device 5.

[0146] The configuration of the first modification of the second embodiment is effective when the first identification information of the first type, the first identification information of the second type, and the second identification information are displayed on information displays of different formats. For example, the first identification information of the first type and the first identification information of the second type are two-dimensional barcodes, and the second identification information is a one-dimensional barcode. In such a case, the drivers of the terminal 3 that can read each barcode are different, and therefore it is more efficient to consecutively read the identification information that can be read with the same driver. Incidentally, the serial code may be obtained by having the terminal 3 transmit an image of the serial code barcode to the management device 5, and the management device 5 may obtain the serial code from the captured image received from the terminal 3.

[0147] <Modification 2 of the Second Embodiment> As a second modification of the second embodiment, a goods supply system in which the price of goods 2 is paid by electronic payment will be described. In this modified example, the second identification information 12 is authenticated and the second type of first identification information 111 is determined, and the control unit 24 of the item supply device 1 releases the lock upon receiving an unlock signal from the management device that confirms the completion of electronic payment. The functional configuration of the terminal 3 in this modification is the same as that of the modification of the first embodiment (FIG. 19). The calculation unit 51 further includes a payment unit 513. The payment unit 513 performs processing related to payment for the item 2 through communication with the management device 5. The functional configuration of the management device 5 in this modification is the same as that of the modification of the first embodiment (FIG. 20). The calculation unit 51 further includes a payment unit 513. A payment management unit 624 performs processing related to payment for the item 2 through communication with the terminal 3. The storage unit 61 further stores user management data D3, which is payment data for each user. The user management data D3 stores user identification information (user ID), password, and electronic money balance in association with each other, as shown in FIG. 21, for example.

[0148] FIG. 34 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system in this modified example. In this modified example, the supply determination process is the same as the process described in the above embodiment (Figures 28 to 30) up to the process in which the management device 5 checks the inventory of item 2 in the item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID (Figure 28: Step 32, Figure 30: Step 503), so the process thereafter will be described. If the inventory quantity of the item 2 in the item supply device 1 with the acquired device ID is not "0", the management device 5 transmits a payment input screen to the terminal 3 (supply determination process: Step 32). The supply determination process will be described in detail later.

[0149] Terminal 3 displays the payment input screen received from management device 5 (Step 41). Figure 23 shows an example of the payment input screen displayed on terminal 3. The user enters a user ID and password on the displayed input screen (Step 42). Payment unit 513 of terminal 3 transmits the entered user ID and password to management device 5 (Step 43).

[0150] The management device 5 receives the user ID and password and performs a supply determination process (Step 32). The details of the supply determination process will be described later. Here, payment is made using the received user ID and password. Then, once payment is completed, guidance information is sent to the terminal 3. If the payment result is appropriate, an unlock signal is sent to the item supply device 1.

[0151] The supply information notification unit 512 of the terminal 3 receives the notification information from the management device 5 and displays the notification information (Step 44). The notification information informs the user that the serial code has been authenticated, that payment has been completed, that the user should receive the goods by operating the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute.

[0152] When the article supply device 1 receives the unlock signal, it performs a supply process (Step 45). The user operates the item supply device 1 according to the guidance information and receives the supply of items. The supply process in this modification is the same as the supply process in the modification of the first embodiment (FIG. 25). In addition, the processes after the supply process are also the same as those in the above embodiment.

[0153] The supply determination process in this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. Steps 500 to 503 have been described in the supply determination process of the above embodiment (FIG. 30), so the process thereafter will be described.

[0154] If the inventory quantity of the acquired device ID in the item supply device data D1 is not “0” (Step 503), it is determined that the item supply device 1 of the acquired device ID is able to supply item 2, and the payment management unit 624 sends a payment input screen (Figure 23) to the terminal 3 (Step 601). Then, upon receiving the user ID and password entered on the payment input screen (Step 602), the payment management unit 624 performs payment using the received user ID and password and information on the price of the item 2 (Step 603). The information on the price of the item 2 is obtained from the item supply device data D1, which is the price information corresponding to the device ID previously received from the terminal 3. In the payment process, first, it is determined using the user management data D3 whether the user ID and password are valid, and if they are valid, the balance corresponding to the received user ID in the user management data D3 is updated with the amount obtained by deducting the received price.

[0155] If the payment is completed successfully (Step 604), the payment management unit 624 sends guidance information corresponding to the successful result to the terminal 3 (Step 504). Here, the user is informed that the serial code has been authenticated, that payment has been completed, that the user should operate the handle 15 of the item supply device 1 to receive the item, and that the handle 15 will lock in one minute. The supply control unit 623 then sends an unlock signal to the terminal 3 (Step 605). In addition, if an error occurs during payment, the payment management unit 624 sends guidance information to terminal 3 informing that payment could not be made along with the details of the error (user ID and password not registered, insufficient balance, etc.) (Step 505). This concludes the explanation of the supply determination process.

[0156] In the variants of the first and second embodiments, the user is required to enter a user ID and password on the payment input screen for electronic payment, but this is not limited to this. For example, the payment input screen may display the price and a payment button, and when the payment button is pressed, the payment application stored on the terminal 3 side may send the payment user ID and password stored in the memory unit 307 to the management device 5. In addition, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which a payment method was used in which the amount was deducted from the user's electronic money charge balance, but various other cashless payment methods may also be used, such as deducting the amount from the user's bank account in real time or in a lump sum for a specified period of time.

[0157] <Third embodiment> A third embodiment will now be described. Figure 36 is a diagram for explaining an article supply device 1 according to the third embodiment.

[0158] In the third embodiment, the article supply device 1 of the first embodiment is made to function as one unit, and a case will be described in which one article supply device 1 is configured from a plurality of units 70 and one display unit 71.

[0159] The unit 70 is similar to the article supply device 1 described in the first embodiment. The differences from the article supply device 1 described in the first embodiment are as follows. The unit 70 does not display (attach) the first identification information 11. The unit 70 is provided with a light-emitting element 72, such as an LED, that is visible to the user. When the control unit 24 receives the supply permission signal, it lights up the light-emitting element 72 to notify the user that the unit 70 is able to supply the item 2.

[0160] The display unit 71 is installed at the top of the multiple units 70 and displays first identification information 11. Here, the first identification information 11 is not the device ID of each unit 70, but the device ID of one item supply device 1 that groups multiple units 70 (hereinafter referred to as group ID). In addition, the display unit 71 displays that, among the multiple units 70, the unit 70 whose light-emitting element 72 is lit is capable of supplying the item 2.

[0161] The management device 5 differs in the configuration of the item supply device data D1 and the configuration of the item supply device determination unit 621.

[0162] The item supply device data D1 similarly stores the device ID of the unit 70 and the inventory quantity of the item 2 in that unit 70, but these are associated with a group ID, which is the ID of a group formed by grouping multiple units 70. This group ID is the group ID included in the first identification information 11 displayed on the display unit 71. Figure 37 is an example of item supply device data D1 of the third embodiment. In the example of Figure 37, the device IDs of multiple units 70 are associated with one group ID "101." In other words, the units 70 with multiple device IDs belonging to the group ID "101" constitute one item supply device 1.

[0163] The item supply device determination unit 621 receives a serial code input screen request from the terminal 3, acquires the group ID included in the request instead of the device ID, and determines whether the acquired group ID is included in the item supply device data D1. If the group ID is included in the item supply device data D1, it identifies the units 70 of the device IDs that have item 2 in stock among the device IDs that belong to the group ID acquired by the user. The simplest method for identifying the units 70 of the device ID is to search for the inventory numbers of the device IDs that belong to the group ID in ascending order of device ID numbers, and identify the units 70 of the device IDs that have inventory as units 70 that can supply item 2. However, this is just an example, and other methods are also possible. For example, it is also possible to identify the units 70 of the device IDs so that the inventory numbers are uniform.

[0164] If the serial code is authenticated in the same manner as in the first embodiment, the goods supply device determination unit 621 transmits a supply permission signal to the unit 70 of the identified device ID. When the payment is completed, the control unit 24 of the unit 70, which has received the supply permission signal, unlocks the lock unit 22. In the case of electronic payment, the control unit 24 of the unit 70 unlocks the lock unit 22 in response to the supply permission signal from the management device 5. Other configurations and operations are similar to those of the first embodiment and the modified example.

[0165] The third embodiment has the following advantages in addition to the advantages of the first embodiment and the modifications thereof.

[0166] The management device 5 selects units 70 that are in stock and sends a supply permission signal or an unlock signal, which prevents errors due to out-of-stock after obtaining the user's first identification information and prevents the user from having to obtain the first identification information again, thereby improving user convenience.

[0167] The party managing the item supply device does not need to display or attach the first identification information to each unit 70, but only needs to display one first identification information on the display unit 71, thereby reducing the burden on the party managing the item supply device. The number of first identification information displayed on the display unit 71 is not limited to one, and may be multiple as needed. <Fourth embodiment> A fourth embodiment will now be described. Figure 38 is a diagram for explaining an article supply device 1 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0168] In the fourth embodiment, the article supply device 1 of the second embodiment is made to function as one unit, and a case will be described in which one article supply device 1 is configured from a plurality of units 70 and one display unit 71.

[0169] The unit 70 is similar to the article supply device 1 described in the second embodiment. The differences from the article supply device 1 described in the second embodiment are as follows. The unit 70 does not display (attach) the first type of first identification information 111.

[0170] The display unit 71 is installed on the top of the multiple units 70 that supply the same item, and displays the first type of first identification information 11. The display unit 71 displays information such as a description of the items supplied by the multiple units 70. The user goes to a location where an item supply device 1 capable of supplying an item 2 that is supplied exclusively to purchasers of a magazine 4 is installed, and operates the terminal 3 to photograph the information display of the first type of first identification information 111 displayed on the display unit 71. Other configurations and operations are the same as those of the second embodiment and the modified example.

[0171] Although the present invention has been described above by way of preferred embodiments, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be modified and implemented in various ways within the scope of its technical concept. [Explanation of symbols]

[0172] 1 Goods supply device 2 Goods 3. Terminal 4 items 5 Management device 6. Communication Network

Claims

1. An article supply device capable of supplying articles, a first display unit that displays first identification information of a first type; a second display unit disposed at a position different from the first display unit and displaying a second type of first identification information; a storage section for storing an item; a supply unit that supplies the items stored in the storage unit; a control unit that controls the supply unit to supply the goods under the conditions that first identification information of the first type and the second type has been acquired, second identification information displayed on a medium outside the goods supply device has been authenticated, and the price of the goods has been paid; Equipped with the first identification information of the first type includes link information to an authentication page of the second identification information and product identification information that identifies a supplyable product, the second type of first identification information includes device identification information that can identify the item supply device, the second identification information includes authentication information authenticating a purchase right that allows the purchase of an item; Goods supply device.

2. The second identification information has an expiration date for the purchase right set therein. The article supply device according to claim 1 .

3. The first identification information of the first type and the second identification information of the second type are expressed by a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code. The article supply device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the control unit enables the supply unit to supply the goods under the conditions that the goods that can be supplied from the goods supply device are identified by the first identification information of the first type, the goods supply device is identified by the first identification information of the second type, the second identification information is authenticated, and the price of the goods is paid. The article supply device according to claim 1 .

5. An item supply system capable of supplying items, The system includes an item supply device and a management device, The article supply device a first display unit that displays first identification information of a first type; a second display unit disposed at a position different from the first display unit and displaying a second type of first identification information; a storage section for storing an item; a supply unit that supplies the items stored in the storage unit; a control unit that controls the supply unit to supply articles; Equipped with the first identification information of the first type includes link information to an authentication page of the second identification information and product identification information that identifies a supplyable product; the second type of first identification information includes device identification information that can identify the item supply device, The management device an item supply device identification unit that identifies an item supply device from the second type of first identification information acquired by the terminal; an authentication unit that authenticates the right to purchase an item by a terminal that has transmitted an authentication page after validly authenticating the first type of first identification information acquired by the terminal, using second identification information acquired from a medium outside the item supply device; a supply permission information transmitting unit that transmits, to the identified item supply device, supply permission information that enables the supply of the item on condition that the purchasing right is authenticated; Equipped with the control unit of the item supply device controls the supply unit to supply the item on the condition that supply permission information has been received and the price of the item has been paid; Goods supply system.

6. The second identification information has an expiration date of the purchase right set therein, the authentication unit of the management device authenticates only the purchase right of the second identification information whose expiration date is valid; The article supply system according to claim 5 .

7. the authentication unit identifies an article from the first identification information of the first type, transmits an authentication page of second identification information corresponding to the identified article to a terminal, and authenticates the second identification information input on the authentication page; the item supply device identification unit identifies the item supply device from the second type of first identification information; the supply permission information transmitting unit transmits, to the identified item supply device, supply permission information that enables the supply of the item on condition that the purchasing right is authenticated; 7. The article supply system according to claim 5 or claim 6.

Images