Purchase information utilization system, purchase information utilization method, and program

Abstract

To make it possible to identify a product purchased by a consumer based on a receipt issued by any shop.SOLUTION: The inventive system includes a reception unit which receives, from a consumer's terminal, information regarding a receipt and a product code with which a product is identified which has been registered, in a product database, being associated with a management name which is a name with which the product is managed, an analysis unit which extracts a shown name which is a name of the product shown on the receipt through analyzing the information regarding the receipt and identifies, based on the extracted shown name and the product code received from the terminal, the management name associated with the extracted shown name, and a receipt information storage unit which associates the extracted shown name with the product code which has been associated with the identified management name in the product database and stores it.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1B

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a purchase information utilization system, a purchase information utilization method, a program, and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Information regarding purchase behavior such as which store a consumer purchased which product at is very useful information when conducting market research. This information is recorded on the receipt issued by the store when the consumer purchases the product. However, since the name of the product indicated on the receipt is freely determined by each store, even for the same product, the product names are not necessarily common among stores. Therefore, technologies for identifying products from the receipt notation have been studied.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, a technology has been proposed that enables identification of a product from a receipt by encoding the purchased product information and writing it on the receipt.

Prior Art Documents

[0004]

Patent Documents

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005]

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in the case of the technology described in Patent Document 1, a dedicated receipt issuing terminal for writing the encoded product information on the receipt is required, resulting in poor versatility. Therefore, in view of the above circumstances, the present invention is based on a receipt issued by an arbitrary store, and eliminates

[0007] The purpose is to make it possible to identify the products purchased by consumers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A purchase information utilization system according to one aspect of the present invention provides information about receipts from a consumer's terminal. The information is associated with a management name, which is the name used to manage the product in the product database. A receiving unit that receives a registered product code that identifies the product, and information related to the receipt. The report is analyzed to extract the product name listed on the receipt, and the extracted table Based on the name and the product code received from the terminal, the extracted notation name corresponds to the An analysis unit that identifies the management name, the extracted notation name, and the identified management name and the product data Receipt information storage that stores the corresponding product code in a database. It has a section and a part.

[0008] A "system" is a collection of information processing devices and other components that provide specific functions to users. This includes systems such as server devices, cloud computing systems, and A SP (Application Service Provider), Client Service It consists of, but is not limited to, components such as those from the oba model.

[0009] Furthermore, the program of this invention is compatible with optical disks such as CD-ROMs, magnetic disks, and semiconductors. Download via various storage media such as memory, or via communication networks. This allows it to be installed or loaded onto a computer.

[0010] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "part" does not simply mean a physical structure, but rather... This includes cases where the functions of the configuration are realized by software. Also, even if the functions possessed by one configuration are realized by two or more physical configurations, or the functions of two or more configurations are realized by one physical configuration. Even if the functions are realized by two or more physical configurations, or the functions of two or more configurations are realized by one physical configuration. It may be.

Advantages of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, based on the receipt issued at any store, the products purchased by the consumer can be identified. It can be done.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] [Figure 1A] It is a configuration diagram of a purchase information utilization system in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] It is a schematic diagram showing the outline of the processing of the purchase information utilization system in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] It is a block diagram of a mobile terminal and a server device in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] It is a block diagram of a mobile terminal and a server device in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] It is a diagram showing an example of a product DB in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] It is a diagram showing an example of a receipt information DB in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart showing the flow of the processing of an analysis unit in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing the flow of the processing of an analysis unit in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing the flow of the processing of the purchase information utilization system in an embodiment of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] [First Embodiment] One embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below. These are illustrative examples for explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention to its embodiments only. No. Furthermore, the present invention can be modified in various ways without departing from its essence. Those skilled in the art will adopt an embodiment in which each of the elements described below is replaced with an equivalent. It is possible to do so, and such embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, in the following: To facilitate understanding, an embodiment in which the present invention is realized using an information processing device will be used as an example. As explained above, the present invention is not limited to that.

[0014] <1. System Configuration Overview> Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the purchasing information utilization system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown, the purchasing information utilization system 1 communicates with the server device 10 via the network N, The mobile terminal 20 and the purchasing information utilization system 1 are connected to each other. Purchase information sent from 0 to server device 10 is stored, and the stored purchase information is used for marketing This system is used for purposes such as shopping. Purchase information includes, for example, images of receipts and purchased items. This includes barcode information, product images, etc. Server device 10 is the mobile terminal that transmitted the purchase information. In addition, content such as advertisements, surveys, and coupons can be provided.

[0015] Network N is composed of wireless and wired networks. Examples of networking include mobile phone networks and PHS (Personal Handy-phone System). one System) network, wireless LAN (Local Area Network), infrared Line communication, Bluetooth (registered trademark), wired LAN, telephone line, power line network, There are networks that comply with standards such as IEEE 1394.

[0016] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram conceptually illustrating the process of the present invention. Products distributed in the market include JAN codes. Product codes such as codes, barcodes, and QR codes are used for management. A product code is a globally recognized product identification number that indicates which company (manufacturer, etc.) owns which product. The product code is issued by the business owner of the product brand to a designated management center. This can be set for each product using a business code that identifies the business operator. Products with a set code are listed in databases such as JICFS / IFDB (JAN Code Integrated Product Information Database). It is centrally managed by the product database 300. In the product database, the product code is used. Vendor information and product names (in the following, product names managed in the product database are specifically referred to as "management names") ) are associated and managed accordingly.

[0017] On the other hand, stores that sell goods, such as supermarkets and convenience stores, handle their own products. To manage the products we have, we have a separate database from product DB300. In this case, each store uses the product name, not the management name, but rather the name managed on the POS system, for example. Often, they use names that are already established or names that have been given by the store itself. The issued receipts (400) will list the product name as the name handled by each store, rather than the management name. This is indicated (hereinafter, the name of the product handled by each store as indicated on the receipt will be referred to as the "receipt name"). (Also known as...)

[0018] In that case, even for the same product, the name on the receipt and the name used for management purposes may differ. For example, in Figure 1B, the receipt name "coffee beans" is in the product database 300. It is registered under the management name "CC Premium Regular Coffee Beans 180g".

[0019] Therefore, the administrator who manages products in product DB300 will have obtained the receipt information. However, the name displayed on the receipt is a name managed by each store, so it is not listed on the receipt. It is not possible to determine which product in product DB300 corresponds to a given product. Also, if it were to be deleted... Even if you can obtain the product code of the item listed on the receipt from the consumer, the receipt will contain... In many cases, multiple items are listed, so which receipt name corresponds to which product code It is difficult to determine whether or not to address this issue.

[0020] In the purchase information utilization system 1 according to the present invention, the name indicated on the receipt and the received product code Based on this, a matching process is performed with the management name to identify the management name corresponding to the name written on the receipt. This allows for the creation of a database that associates the name on the receipt with the product code. This makes it possible to identify the product code corresponding to the name on the receipt. Based on the receipt information, the product database 200 can track the selling price and sales performance of products at each store. It can be grasped.

[0021] <2. Structure> The configuration of the purchasing information utilization system 1 according to the present invention will be described below. <2-1. Functions of the mobile device 20> The mobile terminal 20 has the function of transmitting information to the server device 10 via the network N. It is a processing device. Specifically, as a mobile terminal 20, for example, a mobile phone or a smartphone, PC (Personal Computer), PDA (Personal Digit) (al Assistants), tablets, wearable devices, This includes, but is not limited to, game consoles and the like.

[0022] Figure 2A is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions of the mobile terminal 20. The mobile terminal 20 includes a control unit 210 which includes a CPU and memory, and is connected to the network N. A communication unit 220 for this purpose, and an input unit 230 such as a touch panel that accepts operations from the user. And a memory that stores various programs and data necessary for the execution of processing in the control unit 210. It has a unit 240, a display unit 250 that displays the screen, and an imaging unit 260. Unit 260 is used for taking still images and videos, and for reading QR codes (registered trademark) and barcodes. conduct.

[0023] The user of the mobile device 20 (hereinafter also referred to as "consumer") installs a specified app on the mobile device 20. By installing the application (hereinafter also referred to as "app"), the server device 10 You will be able to use the specified services provided by [the company / organization].

[0024] Consumers who install the app will receive notifications on their mobile device 2 when they purchase products at a store. The system manipulates 0 and sends it to the server device 10 as purchase information. At this time, the consumer, for example, purchases Purchase information includes images of receipts, barcode information of products, and pictures of purchased items. It is preferable to also transmit the image as purchase information to the server device 10.

[0025] <2-2. Functions of Server Device 10> Refer to Figure 2B to explain an example of the functions of the server device 10. The server device 10 is a network These are computers connected to the network N, such as PCs and servers.

[0026] Figure 2B is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions of the server device 10. The server device 10 includes an input unit 110, a control unit 120, a storage unit 130, and a communication unit 1 It has a 40 and a display unit 150.

[0027] The input unit 110 is configured to receive operations from the administrator of the server device 10, This can be achieved using a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, etc.

[0028] The control unit 120 includes a processing unit such as a CPU or MPU, memory such as RAM, and image processing. The arithmetic processing unit implements the program stored in the storage unit 130 based on various inputs. This program operates various functional units by performing the actions described above. This program is available on CD-ROM, etc. It is stored on a recording medium or distributed via network N and entered into a computer. It may be installed. Memory is used for server programs and game programs. Furthermore, during the execution of processing in these programs, various data necessary for calculations, etc. It is for temporary storage.

[0029] The storage unit 130 is composed of a storage device such as a hard disk, and the control unit 120 Records various programs necessary for executing the process, as well as data necessary for executing those programs. This should be done. The memory unit 130 also contains, in addition to the aforementioned product DB 300, consumer Information DB131, Store DB132, Purchase Information DB133, Multiple Receipt Information DB134 , and content DB135 are stored there.

[0030] Figure 3A shows an example of product DB300. As shown in Figure 3A, product DB300 This means that the product code and the information of the product corresponding to that product code are linked and stored together. Yes, there are. Product codes are, for example, barcodes and JAN codes, which are identification information of products photographed by consumers. This includes codes, etc. Product information also refers to things like the product name and manufacturer information. The product names registered in product DB300 are JICFS / IFDB (JAN code integrated). It is preferable that the name (management name) is one that is managed in the product information database. Product DB300 is also considered to be owned by an external system of the purchasing information utilization system 1. good.

[0031] Consumer Information DB131 contains attribute information and information related to the rewards that consumers possess, along with their consumer ID. Information such as the number of coupons and points held, information on sweepstakes currently being entered, and level are linked. The information is registered and includes the consumer's age, gender, occupation, address, date of birth, and marital status. This information includes family structure, cohabiting family members, annual income, household income, etc. Attribute information is, for example, app When installing the application on the mobile device 20, it is preferable for the consumer to register. The level is an example. For example, this information is set based on the number of times you have responded to surveys or evaluation requests.

[0032] Store DB132 stores information about the stores that sell the products. For example, store Store DB132 associates the store ID with the store name, address, phone number, and store code. It is stored there. The store code is a code that indicates the group to which the store is classified. For example Therefore, stores of the same type are assigned the same store code.

[0033] Purchase Information DB133 contains information about purchases actually made by consumers. It is being stored. Purchase information includes, for example, product codes, receipt images taken by consumers, and the relevant information. This includes receipt information extracted from receipt images, shopping scene images taken by consumers, etc. The receipt information was extracted as text data from an image of the receipt when the product was purchased. This refers to information. Receipt information includes, for example, the name of the product, the selling price, and the number of items purchased by the consumer. Other information included is the store's phone number, store name, and date and time of purchase. The receipt also contains a JAN code. If a product code such as D is displayed, the receipt information may include the product code. Cut.

[0034] Shopping scene images refer to images of purchased items. Also, the images of the consumer who purchased those items. The consumer's location information when registering their personal information and purchase information can also be stored as purchase information. It is possible.

[0035] Furthermore, the purchase information DB133 contains images of the purchased product being used (usage scene). Evaluation information, which includes images of products purchased by consumers and information about their evaluations of the products they use, is available to the public. Purchase information is linked to and stored. Evaluation information includes, for example, the satisfaction level of the purchased product. This includes comments, impressions, etc. Usage scene images show the product and the consumer using the product. It is desirable that the image shows the usage scenario. By having consumers register the usage scenario as purchase information, This will allow manufacturers, distributors, and other companies to understand how their products are "used" and "actually used." Furthermore, the purchase information DB133 contains consumer comments on products and information from companies to consumers. It is also possible to register for surveys and other related activities.

[0036] The receipt information DB134 contains product information obtained by analyzing receipts. Figure 3B shows an example of the receipt information DB134. The storage unit 130 is, for example, Each store registered in the store database 132 can have its own receipt information database 134. The receipt information DB134 contains the name of the receipt at the corresponding store, the sales price, and the corresponding... The product code and product name (management name) in product DB300 are associated with the misreading history, etc. It is remembered.

[0037] The name displayed on the receipt is the name of the product listed on the receipt issued by that store. Generally, the name displayed on the receipt at each store and the management name in the product database 300 are different. In many cases, each store can, for example, freely name the receipt or register it in the POS system. This is so that the name displayed on the receipt can be matched to the name being used. The unit 130, through processing by the analysis unit 122 described later, determines the receipt table that is written on the receipt. The name on the receipt and the management name are matched and registered in the receipt information DB134. This allows the product code to be identified from the name displayed on the receipt. Furthermore, product DB1 For each of the items listed above, you can register the selling price at each store.

[0038] Content DB135 contains content ID, product code, store ID (or store code) The content and its publication conditions are stored in an associated manner. Examples of content include reward information, survey / evaluation requests, and sales promotion information.

[0039] Reward information includes points, information that can be exchanged for prizes or goods (including coupons, etc.), and sweepstakes. This includes information indicating eligibility requirements, levels, etc. Points are awarded when they reach a certain value. This refers to items that can be exchanged for prizes or cash. Reward information is also used when points are awarded through lotteries or raffles. A video showing whether or not you have won the prize would also be acceptable.

[0040] The survey request asks for comments about the product and answers to questions. Furthermore, the evaluation request might ask, for example, to input a numerical value indicating satisfaction with the product. Yes. In the following explanation, consumer responses to surveys and evaluation requests are referred to as evaluation information. Specifically, the evaluation information includes satisfaction levels, impressions, and consumer comments on the purchased product. This includes responses to surveys from companies to consumers, and information quantifying satisfaction levels. Oh, when requesting surveys or evaluations, it's also common to ask consumers to input their attribute information. It is possible.

[0041] Furthermore, sales promotion information includes advertisements and coupons such as campaign information. Advertisements are, for example... The coupon may also be for a related product or a sister product of the product in question. Sometimes these are things that can be used immediately, or things that can be used when purchasing the same product again in the future. This is acceptable. Furthermore, coupons that are only valid at specific stores are also acceptable.

[0042] Furthermore, sales promotion information is derived from a large amount of purchasing information stored in the purchasing information DB135, which will be described later. Information created from the results of analysis and editing is also acceptable. For example, in this case, sales promotion information would be... For example, the average satisfaction level of consumers of a certain age group living in a certain region, or This includes comments and feedback about the product. A person who is considering purchasing a product should consider the actual evaluation of that product by other consumers. Based on rankings and other factors, you can decide whether or not to purchase the product. Consumers who are judged to be similar to consumers who are about to purchase a product, for example It is preferable that the person be a consumer. Note that whether consumers are similar to each other is determined by the Consumer Information DB1. Based on the attribute information registered in 33 and the similarity of the purchase history registered in the purchase information DB135 It can be determined by doing so.

[0043] Furthermore, sales promotion information is created from purchase information stored in the purchase information DB135. It may also include best-selling product rankings for items in the same category. For example, purchase information DB135 By searching for purchase information of recently purchased items, you can find the best-selling rankings. It is possible to provide this information. Furthermore, sales promotion information is stored in the purchasing information DB135. It may be created without using any information, and may, for example, display advertising coupons for competing products.

[0044] The issuance conditions will be referred to by the content provision section 126 described later, and the content will be provided to the mobile terminal 20. This is the trigger for sending. The issuance conditions include the issuance timing and the recipient.

[0045] There are four possible issuance timings, for example: 1. When a consumer scans the product code with their mobile device 20 In this case, if the issuance conditions are met, sales promotion information will be displayed on the mobile device 20. This is preferable.

[0046] 2. When the determination unit 123, described later, determines that the consumer has actually purchased the product. For example, the receiving unit receives product codes, receipt images, and purchase scene images transmitted by the mobile terminal 20. This occurs when 121 receives the message. In this case, if the issuance conditions are met, the mobile terminal 20 will receive the message. It is preferable that reward information, survey / evaluation requests, sales promotion information, etc., be displayed. At this time, in the past purchase history registered in the purchase information DB135, a specific commercial It is also possible to determine whether or not an item was purchased within a specific period based on the timing of issuance. In this case, the content provider unit 126 will determine if a consumer who has purchased a certain product has recently (for example, 3 If a customer has purchased a competitor's product (within a few months, etc.), issuing a survey or similar document can help determine why This time, we can conduct investigations such as whether or not customers purchased competing products.

[0047] 3. When the determination unit 123, described later, determines that the consumer has actually purchased the product, a predetermined period begins. When the period has elapsed For a specified period, for example, when a consumer scans a product code or sends a purchase scene image, You can set the number of days from when you sent the letter. In this case, if the issuance conditions are met, It is preferable that the mobile device 20 displays a survey, evaluation request, etc. It is possible to obtain feedback from users after they have consumed the product.

[0048] 4. When consumers respond to surveys or evaluation requests. In this case, if the issuance conditions are met, the reward information will be displayed on the mobile device 20. It is preferable.

[0049] Note that the timing of issuance is not limited to the above cases; it can also be issued when the user uses the product. stomach.

[0050] Furthermore, the issuance targets include, but are not limited to, the following four types or any combination thereof. I can't. 1. Specific product 2. A specific store (a store code is also acceptable) 3. Users with specific attributes (attribute information, purchase information, etc.) 4. Category of a specific product

[0051] Returning to Figure 2, we will continue to explain the configuration of the server device 10. The communication unit 140 is configured to connect the server device 10 to the network N. The communication unit 140 includes LAN cards, analog modems, ISDN modems, etc. This is implemented through an interface for connecting to the processing unit via a transmission path such as a system bus. It is possible.

[0052] The display unit 150 is, for example, a display or monitor, and is output from the server device 10. Display various types of information.

[0053] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the control unit 120 has a receiving unit 121 and an analysis unit as functional units. 122, determination unit 123, product identification unit 124, content creation unit 125, content It is equipped with a supply section 126.

[0054] The receiving unit 121 receives purchase information from the mobile terminal 20. For example, the receiving unit 121 receives purchase information from the mobile terminal 20. Receipt images taken by the person, product codes read by the consumer from their mobile device 20, consumer It is also possible to receive images of the products purchased and images of the shopping scene for those products. Furthermore, the mobile device 20 uses OCR (Optical Character Recognition). If the unit has functions such as optical character recognition, the receiving unit 121 receives the receipt information. It is also possible to do so.

[0055] The receiving unit 121 receives the receipt image, receipt information, product code, and shopping scene image. Purchase information for statues, etc., is registered in the purchase information DB133. Furthermore, from the mobile terminal 20, the user... Evaluation information includes images, comments on the product, and numerical ratings of satisfaction levels. When this information is received, it is also registered in the purchase information DB133 in association with the purchase information. It is desirable to do so.

[0056] The analysis unit 122 analyzes the receipt image contained in the received purchase information to determine the text of the receipt. The system extracts and analyzes receipt information, which is the data. For example, the analysis unit 122 analyzes the receipt information Based on this, the store where the user made the purchase and the product's management name are identified. This section details the process of identifying management names.

[0057] (Store identification processing) In order to identify a store, the analysis unit 122 first extracts the store's phone number from the receipt image. The phone number is analyzed and compared with the record registered in store DB132. If a record matching the number is found, the analysis unit 122 identifies the store of that record as the product. Identify the store where the item was purchased.

[0058] At this time, the analysis unit 122 also analyzes the store name (store logo) and address from the receipt image. It can be used to identify a store. For example, if only a portion of the phone number can be analyzed from a receipt image... If this is the case, the analysis unit 122 further analyzes the store name and address to identify the store. It can be used for informational purposes. For example, it was possible to analyze the area code from a receipt image. In this case, the analysis unit 122 can deduce the area code from the address. When identifying a store, the accuracy of the analysis can be improved by using the results of analyzing multiple pieces of information. This is possible. Furthermore, when the analysis unit 122 identifies a store, it receives a store designation from the user. A configuration where the parts are attached to each other is also acceptable.

[0059] (Management name identification process) In the management name identification process, the analysis unit 122 identifies the name written on the receipt and the information received by the receiving unit 121. Based on the product code, identify the management name corresponding to the name displayed on the receipt. See Figure 4. The management name identification process of the analysis unit 122 will be explained. Figure 4 shows the management name identification process of the analysis unit 122. This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow.

[0060] In order to identify the product, the analysis unit 122 first uses OCR or other methods to analyze the receipt image. The analysis unit 122 reads the receipt information (S101). Based on the store's phone number included in the information, the aforementioned store will be identified.

[0061] The receipt contains product codes such as JAN codes (hereinafter also referred to as "receipt display codes"). This may be displayed. In such cases, the product code will be displayed in the scanned receipt information. If a code is included (S102:YES), the receipt display code and the commercial information included in the purchase information will be used. Match the product code (S111). The product code included in the purchase information is displayed on the receipt. If there is a match with the code (S112: YES), the analysis unit 122 will find a match. The receipt information is organized by associating the product code with the receipt display name corresponding to the receipt display code. Register in DB134 (S109). At this time, the analysis unit 122 further reads the data. It is preferable to register the sales price included in the sheet information in an associated manner.

[0062] On the other hand, if the receipt information does not include the receipt display code (S102:NO), The analysis unit 122 then performs score calculation processing for each record in the product database 300. Details of the core calculation process will be described later, referring to Figure 5.

[0063] When the score calculation process is performed, the analysis unit 122 extracts records that have a score above the threshold. (S104) The optimal combination of the extracted records and the product codes included in the purchase information The result is determined based on the score. For example, the analysis unit 122 determines the result corresponding to the extracted record. The product code is matched with the product code included in the purchase information (S105). If there are multiple records with matching product codes (S106: In YES, S107:YES), the analysis unit 122 selects the record with the highest score. (S108) On the other hand, if there is only one matching record (S106: YES, S10 7:NO), the analysis unit 122 selects a matching record (S121). The analysis unit 122 The product name of the selected record is associated with the name displayed on the receipt and registered in the receipt information DB134. Record (S109).

[0064] Furthermore, the analysis unit 122 further processes the receipt information DB 134 to determine the sales corresponding to the receipt notation name. A configuration that registers prices is also acceptable.

[0065] Next, with reference to Figure 5, an example of the score calculation process flow of the analysis unit 122 will be explained. Here, the analysis unit 122 analyzes the string "grated ginger" displayed on the receipt. Let's explain using the example of misreading the receipt and interpreting the name as "grated ginger." First, the analysis unit 122 initializes itself by assigning 1 to the variable K (S201), and reads the receipt Extract the N consecutive characters starting from the Kth character of the notation (S202). For example, if N=3 The analysis unit 122 extracts the first three consecutive characters "OROSHI" from the name written on the receipt. .

[0066] If the extracted N characters include a specified type of character (S203:YES), The analysis unit 122 skips the process and increments K (S206). These characters are, for example, characters other than kanji, hiragana, katakana, and alphanumeric characters.

[0067] If the extracted N characters do not contain any of the specified types of characters (S203:NO), The analysis unit 122 determines that records containing the extracted N characters in the management name are registered in the product database 300. Determine if it has been done (S204), and add the score to the corresponding record (S205). The score to be added is, for example, 1 / (length of the management name).

[0068] The analysis unit 122 increments K (S206) and processes S202 to S206. The process is repeated. Note that the analysis unit 122 checks if the remaining number of characters in the receipt name is less than N characters. The process terminates when it becomes impossible to extract N characters (S207:YES). .

[0069] If the receipt is read as "Grated / Ginger", the score will be as follows: It is being added. • Records with a management name containing K=1, starting with the first character "オ" and including the three consecutive characters "オロシ". Add the score • K=2, the three consecutive characters "ロシ / " starting from the second character "ロ" must be of a specific type of character (symbol). Includes U Skip • K=3, the third character "shi" followed by the consecutive "shi / shi" contains a specified type of character (symbol). Skip • K=4, the fourth character " / " followed by the consecutive characters " / sho" contains a specified type of character (symbol). Skip • Records with a management name containing K=5, starting with the 5th character "shi" followed by "shou" are included. Add A • Records with management names containing K=6, starting with the 6th character "ョ" and including consecutive "YOUGA" are scored. Add A • K=7, the number of consecutive characters starting from the 7th character "ウ" is 3 or less, so the process is terminated.

[0070] The analysis unit 122 also analyzes the store and time the receipt was issued, and the information written on the receipt. The analysis unit 122 analyzes the number of items, the total amount, etc. Alternatively, the information could be stored in the purchase information DB133 as purchase information.

[0071] Furthermore, the analysis unit 122 performs the above-mentioned management name identification process multiple times for different purchase information (for example) It is preferable to perform this process each time purchase information is received. In this case, the receipt linked to a certain store In the information DB134, if different management names are associated with the same receipt name... In the event of a mismatch, the management name that has been associated more frequently will be used to update the record as the appropriate product name. It is also permissible. Furthermore, in the receipt information DB134 linked to a certain store, if the same management name is If there are multiple corresponding receipt names, the number of times the analysis unit 122 has performed the analysis is... The most common receipt name is used as a representative example; other receipt names are treated as misinterpretations. It is preferable to attach and store it. This prevents the analysis unit 122 from misreading the receipt. Even in such cases, it becomes easier to identify the appropriate management name.

[0072] Furthermore, the functions of the analysis unit 122 can also be implemented in the mobile terminal 20.

[0073] The determination unit 123 determines whether the purchase information received by the receiving unit 121 is legitimate or not. For example, the determination unit 123 determines the receipt image (or receipt information) in the received purchase information. By verifying whether the product code is included, the received purchase information can be verified as legitimate. It is possible to determine whether or not this is the case.

[0074] For example, the determination unit 123 refers to the receipt information DB 134 and determines that the receipt information contains The product code corresponding to the name displayed on the receipt is included in the purchase information in product DB300. Based on whether or not it matches the product code, it is determined whether or not the consumer has purchased the product. That's good too.

[0075] If the determination unit 123 determines that the consumer has purchased the product, it will process the received purchase information. The purchase information is registered in DB135. Furthermore, images of the product and usage scenarios are sent from the mobile device 20. When images, evaluation information, etc. are received, this information is also linked to the purchase information database. It is desirable to register with 135. On the other hand, if the purchase information is not legitimate, the determination unit 123 will determine that If this is determined, the consumer who transmitted this fraudulent purchase information can be reported.

[0076] Furthermore, the determination unit 123 determines the frequency with which consumers transmit purchase information and the total number of items purchased at one time. It is preferable to determine whether the purchase information is legitimate based on the total amount, etc. If the same consumer sends purchase information from the same store hundreds of times in a day, or if a large amount of purchase information is sent at once... If a product is purchased, the determination unit 123 determines that this purchase information is fraudulent. It is possible.

[0077] The product identification unit 124 identifies the product purchased by the consumer based on the purchase information received by the receiving unit 121. Identify the product. For example, the product identification unit 124 refers to the product DB 300 and includes the purchase information. A configuration that identifies products based on the product code is also acceptable. For example, product identification unit 124 Alternatively, the system may be configured to identify products based on receipt information analyzed by the analysis unit 122. In essence, the product identification unit 124 refers to the receipt information DB 134 and uses the receipt name as a basis. Next, the product code is identified, and the product is identified in the product database 300 based on the identified product code. This configuration is also acceptable. In this case, the product identification unit 124 does not transmit a product code to the consumer. Even in that case, the product can be identified.

[0078] Furthermore, the product identification unit 124 will identify the product code if the purchase information includes a product code. Based on this, the product is identified, and if the purchase information does not include a product code, it is identified based on the receipt information. A structure that identifies the product based on that is also acceptable.

[0079] The content creation unit 125 accepts requests for new content and registers them with the server device 10. It is possible. For example, the content creation unit 125 can receive content from users of an external system. We may accept the creation of content. The content creation unit 125 accepts the creation of content. When attaching it, please include the name of the content, the product to be purchased, and the information regarding the purchased product. The contents of the publication include records of requests for evaluations, surveys, and coupons that consumers are asked to complete. It is preferable to accept the conditions and specifications of the consumers to whom the content will be sent. The created content is stored in the content DB 135 of the server device 10.

[0080] Furthermore, the content creation unit 125 uses a large amount of purchase information stored in the purchase information DB 135. The results can be analyzed and edited to create sales promotion information. Sales promotion information includes, for example, the satisfaction levels of consumers of a certain age group living in a particular area regarding that product. This includes the average value of the product, as well as comments and feedback about the product. Consumers who are considering purchasing a product should base their decision on the actual evaluations of other consumers of that product. This allows you to decide whether or not to purchase the product.

[0081] For example, the content creation unit 125 generates sales promotion information for the same category of products. It may also be used to provide rankings of best-selling products. The content creation unit 125 provides information from the purchase information stored in the purchase information DB 135. This is possible. For example, the content creation unit 125 retrieves the most recent purchase information from the purchase information DB 135. By searching for purchase information of the products that have been sold, it is possible to provide a best-selling ranking. It is capable of. Furthermore, the content creation unit 125 uses the information stored in the purchase information DB 135. Alternatively, instead of using it, you could create a structure where, for example, advertising coupons for competing products are used as sales promotion information. The content creation unit 125 will create content according to the type and carrier of the mobile terminal 20. It is also possible to create a "tsu" character.

[0082] The content provision unit 126 refers to the content DB 134 and determines if the publication conditions are met. In that case, the corresponding content is provided to the mobile device 20. For example, the content provision unit 126 This refers to Content DB134 and corresponds to the consumer ID included in the received purchase information. Content can be provided based on attribute information, product codes, etc.

[0083] <3. Processing Flow> Referring to Figure 6, in the case where the consumer performs the purchasing behavior shown in Figure 4, the server device 10... The processing flow will be explained. In the example in Figure 5, the server device 10 is the store shown in Figure 3. This explanation assumes that the process is performed by referring to DB132.

[0084] First, the receiving unit 121 receives the receipt image and product code sent by the consumer (S10: YES) and the receiving unit 121 receives the receipt image and product code in the purchase information DB133. Register (S11). The receiving unit 121 also receives the receipt image and product code along with the product When images such as shopping scene images are received, that information is also included in the purchase information DB1. Register for 33.

[0085] Next, the analysis unit 122 analyzes the received receipt image and extracts the receipt information. Furthermore, the analysis unit 122 refers to the store database 132 and uses the telephone number included in the receipt information. The system identifies the store where the consumer made the purchase (S12). The analysis unit 122 also analyzes the receipt information. By referring to the store's logo, address, etc., included in the data, it is possible to identify the store.

[0086] At this time, the analysis unit 122, based on the receipt name included in the receipt information, The management name can be identified and the receipt information DB134 can be updated (S13).

[0087] Next, the product identification unit 124 receives the product code from the receiving unit 121, or the analysis unit 122 determines Based on the names listed on the analyzed receipt, the product is identified (S14). Content Provision Department 1 26 refers to content DB135 and extracts content associated with the identified product. , provided to the mobile terminal 20 according to the issuance conditions (S15).

[0088] [Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment and subsequent embodiments, descriptions of matters common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and the differences will be noted. Only the following will be explained. In particular, similar effects and benefits from similar configurations will be explained for each embodiment. They will not be mentioned sequentially.

[0089] In this embodiment, the publication conditions for content registered in the content DB135 are set to publication conditions This includes time zones. The time zones for issuance are specific time periods (for example, from 7 PM to 12 AM) or specific time zones. The time (for example, 23:30), a specific date and time (for example, March 3, 2018 or March 3 every year) ) includes.

[0090] The analysis unit 122 analyzes the received receipt image to determine when a consumer purchased a product (for example, the product This refers to the time and date of purchase. The time the receipt was issued is considered the time of purchase. (It may also be possible to analyze)

[0091] Next, the content provision unit 126 refers to the content DB 135 and the analysis unit 122 The purchase date and time of the analyzed product falls within (or matches) the target time registered as an issue condition. In this embodiment, the specified content can be issued. The content provision department 126 also provides information such as the store's location, priority, product type, and publication time. Content can be published even if other publication conditions are taken into consideration.

[0092] Thus, the content provision unit 126 according to this embodiment provides content according to the time of publication. It is possible to provide the tent. This allows, for example, the issuance period to be a convenience store By registering the time periods around when products are due to be replaced, you can see when the expiration date is approaching. Instead of discounts, consumers who purchase products can be rewarded with coupons or points. Cut. The other configurations and functions of the purchasing information utilization system 1 are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0093] One embodiment of the present invention has been described above. This embodiment is provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention and is not intended to limit its interpretation. Furthermore, the present invention can be modified or improved without departing from its spirit. For example, in the above-described processing flow, parts of each step can be omitted, the order of each processing step can be arbitrarily changed, or each processing step can be executed in parallel, as long as no inconsistencies arise in the processing content. For example, this embodiment includes the following aspects. [1] A receiving unit that receives information about the receipt from the consumer's terminal and a product code that identifies the product, which is registered in association with a management name that manages the product in the product database. An analysis unit analyzes the information on the receipt to extract the name of the product listed on the receipt, and identifies the management name corresponding to the extracted name based on the extracted name and the product code received from the terminal. A receipt information storage unit stores the extracted notation name, the identified management name, and the product code associated with the product database, in association with each other. A purchasing information utilization system equipped with the following features. [2] The aforementioned analysis unit, Based on whether a predetermined number of consecutive characters included in the aforementioned notation name are included in the aforementioned management name, the management name corresponding to the aforementioned notation name is identified. [1] The purchasing information utilization system described above. [3] The aforementioned analysis unit, Among the management names containing the predetermined number of characters, the management name associated with the same product code as the received product code in the product database is identified as the management name corresponding to the notation name. [2] The purchasing information utilization system described. [4] The aforementioned receipt information storage unit is: The sales prices of the products included in the information on the aforementioned receipt are further associated and stored. A purchasing information utilization system described in any one of [1] to [3]. [5] A determination unit verifies whether the consumer actually purchased the product based on whether the receipt name analyzed by the analysis unit matches the product code associated in the receipt information storage unit with the product code received by the receiving unit. A purchasing information utilization system described in any one of [1] to [4] further comprising the above. [6] A computer equipped with a memory device, The steps include receiving information from the consumer's terminal, including information about the receipt and a product code that identifies the product, which is registered in association with a management name that manages the product in the product database, The steps include: analyzing the information on the receipt to extract the name of the product listed on the receipt, and identifying the management name corresponding to the extracted name based on the extracted name and the product code received from the terminal; The steps include: storing the extracted notation name, the identified management name, and the product code associated with the product database in the storage device; A method for utilizing purchasing information to execute this strategy. [7] A computer equipped with a memory device, A means of receiving information from a consumer's terminal, including information related to the receipt and a product code that identifies the product, which is registered in association with a management name that manages the product in the product database. A means for analyzing information on the receipt to extract the name of the product listed on the receipt, and for identifying the management name corresponding to the extracted name based on the extracted name and the product code received from the terminal, and Means for storing in the storage device the extracted notation name, the identified management name, and the product code associated with the product database, in association with each other. A program that makes it function as such. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 1. Purchasing Information Utilization System 10 Server devices 20 Mobile devices 110 Input Section 120 Control Unit 121 Receiving Unit 122 Analysis Department 123 Judgment section 124 Product Specification Department 125 Content Creation Department 126 Content Provision Department 130 Storage section 140 Communications Department 150 Display section 210 Control Unit 220 Communications Department 230 Input section 240 Storage section 250 Display section 260 Imaging Unit 400 receipts

Claims

1. A receiving unit receives purchase information from a consumer's terminal, including information on a receipt containing the names of one or more products, and one or more product codes that identify a product, which are registered in a product database in association with a management name that manages the product, and which are read from the product. An analysis unit that identifies the management name corresponding to the indicated name based on the results of a score calculation process which involves analyzing information about the receipt included in the received purchase information to extract the indicated name, which is the name of the product written on the receipt, and matching the extracted indicated name with the management name, and a product code matching process which involves matching one or more product codes included in the purchase information received from the terminal with product codes stored in the product database that are associated with the management name for which the score is calculated, A purchasing information utilization system equipped with the following features.

2. The management name that has the highest score in the score calculation process and whose corresponding product code is confirmed to be included in the purchase information in the product code matching process is identified as the management name corresponding to the notation name. The purchasing information utilization system according to claim 1.

3. The score calculation process calculates a score based on whether a predetermined number of characters included in the notation name are included in the management name. A purchasing information utilization system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. Extract candidate product codes corresponding to each of the extracted notation names from the product database by the score calculation process, select a product code corresponding to the notation name by matching the extracted candidate product codes with one or more product codes included in the purchase information received from the terminal by the product code matching process, and identify the management name corresponding to the selected product code as the management name corresponding to the notation name. A purchasing information utilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A receipt information storage unit further stores each of the extracted notation names in association with the management name identified in correspondence with the notation name and the product code associated with the product database. A purchasing information utilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The receipt information storage unit is The sales prices of the products included in the information on the aforementioned receipt are further associated and stored. The purchasing information utilization system according to claim 5.

7. A determination unit that, when the receiving unit receives purchase information, refers to the receipt information storage unit to identify a product code corresponding to the notation name extracted by the analysis unit, and verifies whether the consumer actually purchased the product based on whether the product code matches a product code included in the purchase information received by the receiving unit. The purchasing information utilization system according to claim 6, further comprising:

8. The product database stores product information, including information about the manufacturer of the product, linked to the product code. A purchasing information utilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A computer equipped with a storage device, The steps include receiving purchase information from a consumer's terminal, which includes information about a receipt containing the names of one or more products, and product codes that identify the products, which are registered in a product database in association with a management name that manages the products, and which include one or more product codes read from the products; A score calculation process that analyzes information about the receipt included in the received purchase information to extract the name of the product written on the receipt, and calculates a score for the management name by matching the extracted name with the management name; a product code matching process that matches one or more product codes included in the purchase information received from the terminal with product codes stored in the product database that are associated with the management name for which the score is calculated; and a step of identifying the management name corresponding to the name based on the result of the product code matching process. A method for utilizing purchasing information to execute this strategy.

10. A computer equipped with a storage device, A means for receiving purchase information from a consumer's terminal, which includes information about a receipt containing the names of one or more products, and a product code that identifies a product, which is registered in association with a management name that is the name under which the product is managed in the product database, and which includes one or more product codes read from the product, and Means for identifying the management name corresponding to the indicated name based on the results of a score calculation process which involves analyzing information about the receipt included in the received purchase information to extract the indicated name, which is the name of the product written on the receipt, and matching the extracted indicated name with the management name, and a product code matching process which involves matching one or more product codes included in the purchase information received from the terminal with product codes stored in the product database that are associated with the management name for which the score was calculated, and A program that makes it function as such.

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