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

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus configured to suppress false recognition of a relationship between a user and a settlement processing apparatus during execution of a settlement, an information processing system, a settlement management apparatus and method, and a program.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit and a settlement processing apparatus decision unit. The acquisition unit acquires first signal data provided by a settlement processing apparatus to be used for a settlement for a commodity purchased by a user, and second signal data provided by a terminal associated with the user. The settlement processing apparatus decision unit determines, based on the first signal data and the second signal data, based on a distance between the user and the settlement processing apparatus, a target settlement processing apparatus to be used by the user for settlement processing. The first signal data and the second signal data are data based on a fact that signals transmitted by a second signal transmission unit and a first vibration transmission unit are received by a first signal receiving unit and a second signal receiving unit, respectively.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, a settlement management apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Currently, the development of a technology for performing settlement of a product purchased without using cash by using a mobile terminal such as a smartphone carried by a user is in progress. When such a technology is used by a plurality of users, there is a risk of misidentifying the relationship between the user and the settlement processing apparatus when performing settlement.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, a settlement management apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that can suppress misidentification of the relationship between a user and a settlement processing apparatus when performing settlement.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The information processing device of the embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a payment processing device determination unit. The acquisition unit includes a first signal transmission unit and a first signal reception unit and acquires first signal data provided by a payment processing device used for settling the payment of goods purchased by the user, and a second signal transmission unit and a second signal reception unit and acquires second signal data provided by a terminal associated with the user. The payment processing device determination unit calculates the distance between the user and the payment processing device based on the first signal data and the second signal data, and determines the target payment processing device to be used by the user for payment processing based on the calculated distance. The first signal data is data based on the fact that a signal transmitted by the second signal transmission unit has been received by the first signal reception unit. The second signal data is data based on the fact that a signal transmitted by the first signal transmission unit has been received by the second signal reception unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A diagram showing an example of a payment management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] A diagram showing an example of a scenario in which payment for goods is performed using the payment processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of a scenario in which payment for goods is performed using the payment processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a payment processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a payment management device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a payment processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] A diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a payment management device according to this embodiment. [Figure 10]A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 11] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 12] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 13] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 14] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 15] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 16] A diagram showing an example of a walking route taken by a user according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 18] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 19] A diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. [Figure 20] This diagram illustrates an example of the process that a payment management system executes when it is determined that the transmitted and received radio wave strength has not decreased after a payment other than the original payment has been executed by a terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] A sequence diagram showing an example of the processing performed by the payment management system according to this embodiment during payment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The information processing device, information processing system, payment management device, information processing method, and program of the embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0008] Referring to FIG. 1, the overall configuration of the settlement management system according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the settlement management system according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the settlement management system 1 includes settlement processing devices 10-1, …, and settlement processing devices 10-k (k: an integer of 1 or more), a terminal 20, and a settlement management device 30.

[0009] Each of the settlement processing devices 10-1, …, and settlement processing devices 10-k and the settlement management device 30 are connected in a manner that enables communication with each other via the network NA. The terminal 20 and the settlement management device 30 are connected in a manner that enables communication with each other via the network NB. The network NA and the network NB are, for example, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN, etc., and it is preferable that a certain level or higher of information security is implemented. The settlement management system 1 is an example of an information processing system.

[0010] The settlement processing devices 10-1, …, and settlement processing devices 10-k are, for example, candidate POS registers or tablets used by a seller of goods to execute settlements. The settlement referred to here is a process executed by the settlement management system 1 to pay for the price of goods, and may include a process of paying points. Further, the points referred to here include, for example, points for electronic payments, credit cards, etc., points unique to retail stores such as convenience stores, and points given simply for visiting a retail store, etc. Also, each of the settlement processing devices 10-1, …, and settlement processing devices 10-k continuously transmits a signal that conveys identification data indicating its own unique identification code and provided settlement method data indicating the settlement method it provides to other devices. This signal is, for example, a radio wave or a sound wave. The terminal 20 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet stored in a bag carried by the user, a pocket of clothing worn by the user, etc. The settlement management device 30 is, for example, a server.

[0011] In the following description, an example will be given where the settlement management device 30 is independent of the settlement processing devices 10-1, …, 10-k and the terminal 20. However, part or all of the settlement management device 30 may be included in the settlement processing devices 10-1, … or 10-k, or may be included in the terminal 20. For example, the settlement processing device determination unit 302 included in the settlement management device 30 to be described later may be provided in the terminal 20. In this case, the data used by the settlement processing device determination unit 302 may be provided to the terminal 20.

[0012] Next, a usage example of the terminal and the settlement management device according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 3. FIGS. 2 to 3 are diagrams showing an example of a scene where settlement of a product is executed using the settlement processing device according to the embodiment. In the usage example shown in FIGS. 2 to 3, the terminal 20 is a smartphone, and the settlement processing device 10-1 is a POS (Point of Sale) register. The settlement management device 30 is a server not shown in FIGS. 2 to 3. Note that the settlement processing device 10-1 may be a manned POS register or an unmanned POS register.

[0013] (Settlement processing device determination step) For example, as shown in FIG. 2, when the user C carrying the terminal 20 approaches the register, the settlement processing device 10-1 and the terminal 20 transmit and receive signals to each other, and provide the obtained data to the settlement management device 30. Based on the data provided by the settlement processing device 10-1 and the terminal 20, the settlement management device 30 detects that the terminal 20 approaches the settlement processing device 10-1, and determines the settlement processing device 10 that the terminal 20 approaches as the settlement processing device to be used for settlement of the product purchased by the user (hereinafter, the target settlement processing device). Even when another settlement processing device 10-2 is arranged nearby, the target settlement processing device is determined as, for example, the settlement processing device 10-1 based on the intensity of the signals received from the settlement processing device 10-1 and the settlement processing device 10-2. The settlement management device 30 is an example of an information processing device.

[0014] (Settlement method selection step) Terminal 20 obtains payment processing device identification data, which indicates a unique identification code, and payment method data, which indicates payment methods available on the payment processing device 10-1, from the determined payment processing device 10-1. From the payment methods indicated by the available payment method data, Terminal 20 determines the optimal payment method for user C, taking into account factors such as discount rates and point redemption rates. Terminal 20 provides the payment processing device identification data and the determined payment method, etc., to the payment management device 30.

[0015] (Payment details generation step) User C or the seller, for example, has the payment processing device 10-1 read a barcode or QR code (registered trademark) attached to the product using a code reader. The payment processing device 10-1 generates payment details data indicating the payment details for the product purchased by user C and provides the payment details data to the payment management device 30.

[0016] (Linking step) The payment management device 30 links the payment processing device 10-1, which is the target payment processing device determined in the payment processing device determination step, to the terminal 20. The payment management device 30 also further links the payment and the payment method used, as indicated by the payment content data, to the linked target payment processing device and terminal 20.

[0017] (Purchase Intent Confirmation Step) The payment management device 30 prompts terminal 20 to confirm the user's intention to purchase. Terminal 20 performs a process to confirm that user C intends to purchase the product. For example, as shown in Figure 3, terminal 20 outputs the following voice message from its built-in speaker: "You are purchasing coffee. Is it alright to pay with XX Pay?" Then, if the voice "Yes" is input to the microphone built into terminal 20, terminal 20 determines that user C intends to purchase the product.

[0018] (Payment Step) The payment management device 30 instructs the payment processing device 10-1 to execute the payment. In response, the payment processing device 10-1 executes the payment for the goods purchased by user C. After the payment is completed, the terminal 20 outputs the voice message "Payment completed" from the speaker installed in the terminal 20, as shown in Figure 3. The terminal 20 may also issue an electronic receipt after the payment for the goods is completed.

[0019] In the example described above, the payment management device 30 determines the target payment processing device by detecting that the terminal 20 and the payment processing device 10-1 are close together. Therefore, complex processes such as reading a code to link the terminal 20 and the payment processing device 10-1 in cashless payments become unnecessary. User C can make a payment while the terminal 20 remains in their bag or pocket.

[0020] In the example mentioned above, non-operational authentication and contactless payment become possible between the user and the store, making it easy to purchase goods while maintaining social distancing. Furthermore, by utilizing the purchase information and registered user information collected through the introduction of this system, stores can, for example, push advertisements for products they want to sell. If users then purchase those products, the effectiveness of the advertisements can be measured. This information can be applied to marketing activities such as advertising strategies and product planning.

[0021] Next, the hardware configuration of the payment processing device according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the payment processing device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the payment processing device 10 includes, for example, a processor 11, a main memory 12, a communication interface 13, an auxiliary memory 14, an input / output device 15, a first signal transmitter 17, a first signal receiver 18, and a bus 19.

[0022] The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), which reads and executes the payment processing device control program and implements the various functions of the payment processing device 10. The processor 11 may also read and execute programs other than the payment processing device control program and implement the necessary functions for realizing the various functions of the payment processing device 10. The main memory 12 is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory), which stores the payment processing device control program and other programs that are read and executed by the processor 11.

[0023] The communication interface 13 is an interface circuit for performing communication with the terminal 20 and the payment management device 30, etc., via the network NB2 or other networks. The auxiliary storage device 14 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), flash memory, or ROM (read-only memory). The input / output device 15 is, for example, a touch panel display.

[0024] The first signal transmitter 17 is a transmitter that transmits signals using information communication utilizing telecommunications technology. The first signal receiver 18 is a receiver that receives signals transmitted using information communication utilizing telecommunications technology. Examples of information communication utilizing telecommunications technology include UWB (Ultra Wide Band), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi, and NFC (Near Field Communication). The bus 19 connects the processor 11, main memory 12, communication interface 13, auxiliary memory 14, input / output device 15, first signal transmitter 17, and first signal receiver 18 so that they can send and receive data from each other.

[0025] Next, the hardware configuration of the terminal according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the terminal 20 includes, for example, a processor 21, a main memory 22, a communication interface 23, an auxiliary memory 24, an input / output device 25, a sensor 26, a second signal transmitter 27, a second signal receiver 28, and a bus 29.

[0026] The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU, which reads and executes the terminal control program and implements the various functions of the terminal 20. The terminal control program is an application program (payment app) used for payment when purchasing goods. The payment app is installed on the terminal 20. The processor 21 may also read and execute programs other than the terminal control program and implement functions necessary for realizing the various functions of the terminal 20. The main memory 22 is, for example, RAM, which stores the terminal control program and other programs that are read and executed by the processor 21.

[0027] The communication interface 23 is an interface circuit for performing communication with payment processing devices 10-1, ... and payment processing devices 10-k, payment management device 30, etc., via network NB2 or other networks. The auxiliary storage device 24 is, for example, a hard disk drive, solid state drive, flash memory, or ROM. The input / output device 25 is, for example, a touch panel display. The sensor 26 includes, for example, at least one of an angular velocity sensor and an acceleration sensor.

[0028] The second signal transmitter 27 is a transmitter that transmits signals using information communication utilizing telecommunications technology. The second signal receiver 28 is a receiver that receives signals transmitted using information communication utilizing telecommunications technology. Examples of information communication utilizing telecommunications technology include UWB, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi, and NFC. The bus 29 connects the processor 21, main memory 22, communication interface 23, auxiliary memory 24, input / output device 25, sensor 26, second signal transmitter 27, and second signal receiver 28 so that they can send and receive data from each other.

[0029] Next, the hardware configuration of the payment management device according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the payment management device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the payment management device 30 includes, for example, a processor 31, a main memory 32, a communication interface 33, an auxiliary storage device 34, an input / output device 35, and a bus 37.

[0030] The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU, which reads and executes the payment management program and implements the various functions of the payment management device 30. The processor 31 may also read and execute programs other than the payment management program and implement functions necessary for realizing the various functions of the payment management device 30. The main memory 32 is, for example, RAM, which stores the payment management program and other programs that are read and executed by the processor 31.

[0031] The communication interface 33 is an interface circuit for performing communication with payment processing devices 10-1, ..., payment processing devices 10-k, terminal 20, etc., via network NA, network NB, and other networks. The auxiliary storage device 34 is, for example, a hard disk drive, solid state drive, flash memory, or ROM.

[0032] The input / output device 35 is, for example, a touch panel display. The bus 37 connects the processor 31, main memory 32, communication interface 33, auxiliary storage 34, and input / output device 35 so that they can send and receive data from each other.

[0033] Figure 7 shows an example of the functional configuration of a payment processing device according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the payment processing device 10 includes a first signal transmission unit 101, a first signal receiving unit 102, a data provision unit 103, and a payment execution unit 104. Payment processing devices 10-1, 10-2, ..., and 10-k also have a similar functional configuration. In the following description, payment processing device 10-1 will be used as an example of payment processing device 10 as appropriate, but the same applies to payment processing devices 10-2, ..., and 10-k.

[0034] The first signal transmission unit 101 transmits a signal (hereinafter referred to as the first signal) that includes first signal data. The first signal data includes payment processing device identification data and available payment method data. The payment processing device identification data is data indicating a unique identification code assigned to the payment processing devices 10, such as payment processing devices 10-1, 10-2, ... The available payment method data is data indicating payment methods that can be used by the payment processing device 10 itself. The first signal transmission unit 101 continuously transmits the signal including the first signal data to its surroundings at regular intervals, for example, from several hundred milliseconds to several milliseconds.

[0035] The first signal receiving unit 102 receives a signal (hereinafter referred to as the second signal) that includes second signal data transmitted by the terminal 20. The second signal data includes terminal identification data. The terminal identification data is data assigned to the terminal 20.

[0036] The first signal receiving unit 102 receives the second signal and acquires available payment method data, etc., indicating the payment methods available at the terminal 20. The first signal receiving unit 102 measures the radio wave strength of the received second signal (hereinafter referred to as the second signal radio wave strength). The first signal receiving unit 102 generates second signal radio wave strength data, which indicates the measured second signal radio wave strength, and provides it to the payment management device 30 together with the first signal data and the received second signal data. The second signal radio wave strength is an example of the second measured value.

[0037] The data provision unit 103 generates payment details data that shows the payment details for the goods purchased by user C. The data provision unit 103 provides the payment details data to the payment management device 30. For example, the data provision unit 103 generates payment details data that shows the payment details for the goods by reading the two-dimensional code attached to the goods with a code reader.

[0038] The settlement execution unit 104 executes settlement processing in the settlement processing device 10 in accordance with instructions from the settlement management device 30. The settlement execution unit 104 generates settlement completion data on the condition that the settlement is completed. The settlement execution unit 104 transmits the generated settlement completion data to the settlement management device 30.

[0039] Figure 8 shows an example of the functional configuration of a terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the terminal 20 includes, for example, a second signal transmission unit 201, a second signal reception unit 202, a payment method determination unit 203, a data provision unit 204, an intention confirmation unit 205, and a payment execution unit 206.

[0040] The second signal transmission unit 201 transmits a second signal. The second signal data included in the second signal includes terminal identification data. The second signal transmission unit 201 continuously transmits the second signal at regular intervals, for example, from several hundred milliseconds to several milliseconds.

[0041] The second signal receiving unit 202 receives the first signal transmitted by the first signal transmitting unit 101 of the payment processing devices 10-1, 10-2, ... By receiving the first signal, the second signal receiving unit 202 acquires available payment method data, etc., indicating the payment methods available to the payment processing devices 10-1, 10-2, ... The second signal receiving unit 202 measures the strength of the received first signal (hereinafter referred to as the first signal radio wave strength). The second signal receiving unit 202 generates first signal radio wave strength data indicating the measured first signal radio wave strength and provides it to the payment management device 30 together with the second signal data and the received first signal data. The first signal radio wave strength is an example of a first measured value.

[0042] The second signal transmitting unit 201 acquires a first timing for the first signal transmitting unit 101 in the payment processing device 10-1 to transmit the first signal, based on the timing at which the second signal receiving unit 202 receives the first signal. The second signal transmitting unit 201 transmits the second signal at a second timing that is different from the first timing. The interval at which the second signal is transmitted may be the same as or different from the interval at which the first signal transmitting unit 101 transmits the first signal.

[0043] The payment method determination unit 203 determines the payment method to be used for the payment of the goods purchased by user C and generates payment method data indicating that payment method. The payment method determination unit 203 provides the generated payment method data to the payment management device 30. The payment method referred to here is, for example, electronic payment using a smartphone or tablet, and may be a prepayment method or a postpayment method. However, the payment method referred to here may also be credit card payment or cash payment. Specifically, it is preferable that the payment method determination unit 203 determines the most advantageous payment method for user C from among the payment methods indicated by the available payment method data represented by signals transmitted by each of the payment processing devices 10-1, ... and 10-k, taking into consideration factors such as discount rate and point redemption rate.

[0044] The data provision unit 204 provides the payment management device 30 with terminal identification data assigned to terminal 20, payment processing device identification data, and payment method data. The terminal identification data is data indicating a unique identification code assigned to terminal 20.

[0045] The intention confirmation unit 205 performs a process to confirm with user C whether they intend to purchase the product. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the intention confirmation unit 205 outputs the following voice message from the speaker installed in terminal 20: "You are purchasing coffee. Is it alright to pay with XX Pay?" Then, if the intention confirmation unit 205 receives the voice message "Yes" from the microphone installed in terminal 20, it determines that user C intends to purchase the product. If the intention confirmation unit 205 determines that user C intends to purchase the product, it transmits the intention confirmation information to the payment management device 30.

[0046] The payment execution unit 206 executes the payment for the goods purchased by user C in accordance with the instructions of the payment management device 30. After the payment is completed, the payment execution unit 206 outputs the voice message "Payment completed" from the speaker installed in the terminal 20, as shown in Figure 3. The payment execution unit 206 may also issue an electronic receipt after the payment for the goods is completed. The payment execution unit 206 generates payment completion data on the condition that the payment is completed. The payment execution unit 206 transmits the generated payment completion data to the payment management device 30.

[0047] Figure 9 shows an example of the functional configuration of a payment management device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, the payment management device 30 includes a data acquisition unit 301, a payment processing device determination unit 302, a linking unit 303, an intention confirmation unit 304, a payment execution unit 305, and a payment management unit 306.

[0048] The data acquisition unit 301 acquires the first intensity data transmitted by the payment processing device 10 and the second intensity data transmitted by the terminal 20. The data acquisition unit 301 acquires the first signal data and the second signal data transmitted together with the first and second intensity data. The data acquisition unit 301 acquires the payment method data provided by the terminal 20. The data acquisition unit 301 acquires the payment details data provided by the payment processing device 10.

[0049] The payment processing unit determination unit 302 determines the target payment processing unit based on the data provided by the payment processing unit 10 and the terminal 20. The payment processing unit determination unit 302 also determines the target payment processing unit through several steps. Several steps for determining the target payment processing unit will be described later. The payment processing unit determination unit 302 provides the generated payment processing unit identification data to the terminal 20. The payment processing unit determination unit 302 generates payment processing unit identification data indicating the determined target payment processing unit.

[0050] The payment processing device determination unit 302 may always determine the target payment processing device based on the first signal data and the second signal data. Alternatively, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may set a measurement start reference value for the first signal radio wave intensity indicated by the first signal data or the second signal radio wave intensity indicated by the second signal data. In this case, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may determine the target payment processing device when either the first signal radio wave intensity or the second signal radio wave intensity exceeds the measurement start reference value.

[0051] The linking unit 303 associates the terminal 20, indicated by the terminal identification data, with the payment processing device 10-1, which is the target payment processing device, indicated by the payment processing device identification data. The linking unit 303 then links the payment method, indicated by the payment method data, with the payment details data.

[0052] The intention confirmation unit 304 generates intention confirmation instruction data and sends it to the terminal 20, causing the terminal 20 to execute a process to confirm that user C intends to purchase the product. For example, as shown in Figure 2, when user C, who is carrying the terminal 20, approaches the cash register, the intention confirmation unit 304 causes the terminal 20 to execute a process to confirm that user C intends to purchase the product before the payment processing device 10-1, operated by the seller, completes the payment for the product.

[0053] When the settlement execution unit 305 receives confirmation information transmitted by the terminal 20, it generates settlement instruction data that instructs the settlement execution unit 104 of the settlement processing unit 10-1, which is the target settlement processing unit, and the settlement execution unit 206 of the terminal 20 to perform the settlement. The settlement execution unit 305 transmits the generated settlement instruction data to the settlement processing unit 10-1 and the terminal 20, causing the settlement execution unit 104 of the settlement processing unit 10-1 and the settlement execution unit 206 of the terminal 20 to perform the settlement.

[0054] The payment management unit 306 acquires payment completion data transmitted by the payment processing device 10-1 and the terminal 20. Based on the acquired payment completion data, the payment management unit 306 confirms the completion of the payment. When confirming the completion of the payment, the payment management unit 306 may collect data indicating user C and at least a part of the payment details.

[0055] Next, several steps in which the payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the payment processing device will be described in order. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 10 shows the case where user C, who is carrying terminal 20, moves from left to right between payment processing device 10-1 operated by seller F1 and payment processing device 10-2 operated by seller F2.

[0056] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines a payment processing device as the target payment processing device if the strength of the radio waves transmitted and received between the payment processing device 10 and the terminal 20 (hereinafter referred to as the transmitted and received radio wave strength) exceeds a predetermined strength. The payment processing device determination unit 302 calculates the transmitted and received radio wave strength based on the second signal radio wave strength indicated by the second signal radio wave strength data transmitted by the payment processing device 10 and the first signal radio wave strength indicated by the first signal radio wave strength data transmitted by the terminal 20. For example, the payment processing device determination unit 302 calculates a representative value based on statistics of the second signal radio wave strength and the first signal radio wave strength, for example, the average value, as the transmitted and received radio wave strength. The representative value based on statistics may be a value other than the average value.

[0057] For example, as shown in Figure 10, when user C approaches payment processing device 10-1 beyond a certain distance, the transmitted and received radio wave strength calculated by the payment processing device determination unit 302 exceeds the threshold TH7. On the other hand, in the case shown in Figure 10, even when user C is closest to payment processing device 10-2, the transmitted and received radio wave strength calculated by the payment processing device determination unit 302 does not exceed the threshold TH7. Therefore, in the case shown in Figure 10, the payment processing device determination unit 302 determines that payment processing device 10-1 is the target payment processing device.

[0058] Alternatively, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may prioritize selecting a payment processing device based on the strength of the calculated transmitted and received radio wave intensity. For example, in the case shown in Figure 10, the transmitted and received radio wave intensity calculated by the payment processing device determination unit 302 is stronger for payment processing device 10-1 than for payment processing device 10-2. Therefore, in the case shown in Figure 10, the payment processing device determination unit 302 decides to use payment processing device 10-1 for payment. In this case, the predetermined threshold TH7 shown in Figure 10 does not need to be set.

[0059] Alternatively, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may calculate the distance from the terminal 20 to the payment processing device 10 using the first signal radio wave strength and the second signal radio wave strength provided by the payment processing device 10 and the terminal 20, and determine the target payment processing device based on the calculated distance. For example, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may prioritize determining a payment processing device as the target payment processing device if it is located closer to the terminal 20.

[0060] For example, in the case shown on the upper side of the graph in Figure 10, the first signal transmitting unit 101 of payment processing devices 10-1 and 10-2 transmits radio waves to terminal 20, and the first signal receiving unit 102 receives radio waves transmitted by terminal 20. The second signal transmitting unit 201 of terminal 20 transmits radio waves to payment processing devices 10-1 and 10-2 respectively, and the second signal receiving unit 202 receives radio waves from payment processing devices 10-1 and 10-2 respectively.

[0061] The payment processing device determination unit 302 calculates the distance from terminal 20 to payment processing device 10-1 using the strength of the radio waves transmitted and received between payment processing device 10-1 and terminal 20. Similarly, the payment processing device determination unit 302 calculates the distance from terminal 20 to payment processing device 10-2 using the strength of the radio waves transmitted and received between payment processing device 10-1 and terminal 20.

[0062] In the case shown on the upper side of the graph in Figure 10, user C is always in a position closer to payment processing device 10-1 than to payment processing device 10-2. Therefore, the payment processing device determination unit 302 estimates that the distance from terminal 20 to payment processing device 10-1 is longer than the distance from terminal 20 to payment processing device 10-2. Accordingly, in the case shown in Figure 10, the payment processing device determination unit 302 decides to use payment processing device 10-1 for payment. Note that in this case, the predetermined threshold TH7 shown in Figure 10 does not need to be set.

[0063] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 11 shows a case where user C, carrying terminal 20, moves from left to right in front of payment processing device 10-1 operated by seller F. In this example, the payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the target payment processing device based on the time-series change in the calculated distance between payment processing device 10-1 and terminal 20.

[0064] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines a payment processing device 10 as the target payment processing device if the period during which the transmitted and received radio wave strength exceeds a predetermined strength exceeds a predetermined lower limit period but is less than a predetermined upper limit period. The lower limit period here refers to, for example, the range of time required for the user to perform the payment processing. A relatively short period is adopted as the lower limit period. The upper limit period here also refers to, for example, the range of time required for the user to perform the payment processing. A relatively long period is adopted as the upper limit period.

[0065] For example, in the case shown in Figure 11, during the period T8 when user C is within a certain distance of the payment processing device 10-1, the transmitted and received radio wave strength continues to exceed the threshold TH8. On the other hand, in the case shown in Figure 11, during periods other than T8 when user C is within a certain distance of the payment processing device 10-1, the transmitted and received radio wave strength continues to be below the threshold TH8. The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the payment processing device 10-1 as the target payment processing device if the period T8 exceeds a predetermined lower limit and is less than a predetermined upper limit.

[0066] The lower and upper limits of period T8 (hereinafter referred to as time reference values) may be set in any way. The time reference values ​​may be set, for example, based on the layout around the payment processing device 10-1. For example, if the line of users C lined up in front of the payment processing device 10-1 is guided to form a meandering line, the time reference values ​​may be set to correspond to the time changes according to the shape of the line of users C lined up.

[0067] The auxiliary storage device 34 of the payment management device 30 stores, for example, a time-series change model of distance according to the layout around the payment processing device 10-1. The time-series change model is, for example, a model of the time-series change of the average distance according to the layout. The payment processing device determination unit 302 reads the time-series change model stored in the auxiliary storage device 34 and sets a time reference value based on the read time-series change model.

[0068] Furthermore, for example, if the line of users C lined up in front of the payment processing device 10-1 is guided to form a meandering line, the time-series changes over period T8 corresponding to the layout around the payment processing device may be used as training data to train a machine learning model, and the trained machine learning model may be used to set a time reference value, or the setting of the time reference value may be assisted.

[0069] Furthermore, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may calculate the distance to the payment processing device using the transmitted and received radio wave strength. In this case, the payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the target payment processing device to be one in which the calculated distance exceeds a predetermined distance for a period exceeding a predetermined lower limit and is less than a predetermined upper limit.

[0070] For example, in the case shown on the upper side of the graph in Figure 11, the first signal transmitting unit 101 of the payment processing device 10-1 transmits radio waves to the terminal 20, and the first signal receiving unit 102 receives the radio waves transmitted by the terminal 20. The second signal transmitting unit 201 of the terminal 20 transmits radio waves to the payment processing device 10-1, and the second signal receiving unit 202 receives radio waves from the payment processing device 10-1.

[0071] The payment processing device determination unit 302 calculates the distance from the terminal 20 to the payment processing device 10-1 using the transmitted and received radio wave strength. The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines that a payment processing device will be used for payment if the calculated distance exceeds a predetermined distance for a period that exceeds a predetermined lower limit period but is less than a predetermined upper limit period.

[0072] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 12 shows a case where a passerby D, who is carrying a terminal 20 and is not making a payment for goods, moves from left to right in front of the payment processing device 10-1 operated by the seller F.

[0073] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines that payment processing device 10-1 will not be used for payment if the period during which the transmitted and received radio wave intensity exceeds a predetermined intensity is less than or equal to a predetermined lower limit period. The lower limit period here is, for example, a period shorter than the time required for a user purchasing goods to complete the payment process.

[0074] For example, in the case shown in Figure 12, during the period T9 in which pedestrian D is within a certain distance of the payment processing device 10-1, the transmitted and received radio wave strength continues to exceed the threshold TH9. Also, the period T9 shown in Figure 12 is often shorter than the period T8 shown in Figure 11 because, unlike user C, pedestrian D does not perform payment processing.

[0075] On the other hand, in the case shown in Figure 12, the transmitted and received radio wave strength remains below the threshold TH9 during periods other than T9 when the passerby D is more than a certain distance away from the payment processing device 10-1. The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines that the payment processing device 10-1 is not the target payment processing device if the period T9 during which the transmitted and received radio wave strength exceeds a predetermined strength is less than or equal to a predetermined lower limit period.

[0076] Alternatively, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may calculate the distance to the payment processing device using the transmitted and received radio wave strength, and determine that a payment processing device is not the target payment processing device if the period during which the calculated distance is less than a predetermined distance is less than or equal to a predetermined lower limit period.

[0077] For example, in the case shown on the upper side of the graph in Figure 12, the payment processing device 10-1 transmits radio waves to the terminal 20 and receives radio waves transmitted by the terminal 20. The terminal 20 transmits radio waves to the payment processing device 10-1 and receives radio waves from the payment processing device 10-1. The payment processing device determination unit 302 calculates the distance from the terminal 20 to the payment processing device 10-1 using the transmitted and received radio wave strength. The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines that a payment processing device is not a target payment processing device if the period during which the calculated distance is less than a predetermined distance is less than or equal to a predetermined lower limit period.

[0078] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 13 shows the case where the terminal 20 is carried by the seller F who operates the payment processing device 10-1.

[0079] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines that a payment processing device is not a target payment processing device if the period during which the transmitted and received radio wave strength exceeds a predetermined strength is longer than a predetermined upper limit period. The upper limit period here is, for example, a period longer than the time required for a user purchasing goods to complete the payment process.

[0080] For example, in the case shown in Figure 13, during period T10, which is the period after seller F has come near payment processing device 10-1 to process the payment, the transmitted and received radio wave strength continues to exceed the threshold TH10. Also, period T10 shown in Figure 13 is often shorter than period T8 shown in Figure 11 because, unlike user C, seller F remains near payment processing device 10-1 to process the payment. The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines that payment processing device 10-1 is not the target payment processing device if the period T10 during which the transmitted and received radio wave strength exceeds a predetermined strength is longer than a predetermined upper limit period.

[0081] The payment processing device determination unit 302 may also train a machine learning model using the relationship between the target payment processing device and the temporal change in radio wave intensity as training data, and use the trained machine learning model to determine the target payment processing device or to assist in determining the target payment processing device.

[0082] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 14 shows the case where user C1 moves in front of payment processing device 10-1, turns +90 degrees as indicated by arrow A1 to face payment processing device 10-1, and performs payment processing with payment processing device 10-1. Also, Figure 14 shows the case where user C2 moves in front of payment processing device 10-2, turns -90 degrees as indicated by arrow A1 to face payment processing device 10-2, and performs payment processing with payment processing device 10-2.

[0083] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the target payment processing device using the time change of angular velocity measured by the angular velocity sensor.

[0084] For example, the angular velocity sensor mounted on the terminal carried by user C1 detects a positive angular velocity when user C1 changes direction by +90 degrees, as shown in the solid line graph in Figure 14, and detects an angular velocity of approximately zero when user C1 is walking. The payment processing device determination unit 302 integrates the angular velocity at least when user C1 changes direction by +90 degrees from the solid line graph shown in Figure 14 over time to calculate the angle at which user C1 changed direction. Then, based on this angle and data indicating the arrangement of payment processing devices such as the payment processing device 10-1 which is stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 24, the payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the payment processing device 10-1 to be the target payment processing device.

[0085] Furthermore, for example, the angular velocity sensor mounted on the terminal carried by user C2 detects a negative angular velocity when user C2 turns -90 degrees, as shown in the solid line graph in Figure 14, and detects an angular velocity of approximately zero when user C2 is walking. The payment processing device determination unit 302 integrates the angular velocity at least when user C2 turns -90 degrees from the solid line graph shown in Figure 14 over time to calculate the angle at which user C2 turned. Then, based on this angle and data indicating the arrangement of the payment processing device 10-2 etc. which is stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 24 etc., the payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the payment processing device 10-2 as the target payment processing device.

[0086] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. As shown in Figure 15, even when payment processing devices 10-1, ... and payment processing device 10-6 exist, the payment processing device determination unit 302 uses an angular velocity sensor to determine the target payment processing device from among these six payment processing devices. In the case shown in Figure 15, instead of each of the six payment processing devices transmitting the aforementioned radio waves, the radio wave transceiver 100 transmits radio waves to the terminal 20 and receives the radio waves transmitted by the terminal 20. The terminal 20 is equipped with the payment processing device determination unit.

[0087] As shown in Figure 15, the payment processing device determination unit 302 narrows down the candidate payment processing devices based on the sign of the angle calculated by integrating the time change of the angular velocity detected by the angular velocity sensor mounted on the terminal carried by user C. For example, if the angle calculated in this way is positive, the payment processing device determination unit 302 selects payment processing devices 10-1, 10-2, and 10-3 as candidate payment processing devices. Also, for example, if the angle calculated in this way is negative, the payment processing device determination unit 302 selects payment processing devices 10-4, 10-5, and 10-6 as candidate payment processing devices.

[0088] Furthermore, the payment processing device determination unit 302 narrows down the candidate payment processing devices for the target payment processing device according to the strength of the radio waves transmitted by the terminal and received by the radio wave transceiver 100 and the radio waves transmitted by the radio wave transceiver 100 and received by the terminal (hereinafter, both radio wave strengths) after the user C changes direction by +90 degrees or -90 degrees. Both radio wave strengths are, for example, the average value of the strength of the radio waves transmitted by the terminal and received by the radio wave transceiver 100 and the strength of the radio waves transmitted by the radio wave transceiver 100 and received by the terminal.

[0089] For example, if the signal strength of both radio waves is relatively strong after user C changes direction by +90 degrees or -90 degrees, the payment processing unit 302 selects payment processing units 10-2 and 10-5, which are closer to the radio wave transceiver 100, as candidates for the target payment processing unit. Also, for example, if the signal strength of both radio waves is relatively weak after user C changes direction by +90 degrees or -90 degrees, the payment processing unit 302 selects payment processing units 10-1, 10-3, 10-4, and 10-6, which are further from the radio wave transceiver 100, as candidates for the target payment processing unit.

[0090] The payment processing unit 302 then further narrows down the candidates using two properties. The first property is that when user C goes to one of the six payment processing units, it passes through the location where user C is located in Figure 15. The second property is that user C walks at approximately the same speed as the others, and the angular velocity detected by the angular velocity sensor when user C is walking is approximately zero. In other words, the payment processing unit 302 calculates the time or distance traveled by user C, uses that distance to narrow down the candidates, and determines the target payment processing unit.

[0091] Furthermore, although the above explanation uses the example of user C making a +90-degree or -90-degree turn in one go, it is not limited to this. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of a walking path taken by a user according to the embodiment. Figure 16 shows an example of a path in which user C walks in a straight line in the order of points Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, and Q5. Also, user C makes a turn at points Q2, Q3, and Q4. In this case, the angular velocity sensor detects, for example, the time change of the angular velocity whose time integral value is angle α when user C is at point Q2, and the time change of the angular velocity whose time integral value is angle β when user C is at point Q3. In the case of the path shown in Figure 16, the user does not make a +90-degree or -90-degree turn in one go, as in Figures 14 and 15, but the payment processing device determination unit 302 can determine the target payment processing device using the same method as in the case of a +90-degree or -90-degree turn.

[0092] Furthermore, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may train a machine learning model using the relationship between the target payment processing device and the temporal change in angular velocity as training data, and then use the trained machine learning model to assist in determining the target payment processing device.

[0093] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 17 shows the case where user C, who is carrying terminal 20, moves from left to right in front of the payment processing device 10-1 operated by seller F.

[0094] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the target payment processing device using the acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor. For example, in the case shown in Figure 17, the acceleration sensor detects a relatively small change in acceleration over time during the period T14 when user C is standing near the payment processing device 10-1 and performing the payment. On the other hand, in the case shown in Figure 17, for example, the acceleration sensor detects a relatively large change in acceleration over time during periods other than period T14. The periods other than period T14 are the period when user C is walking towards the payment processing device 10-1 to make the payment or the period when user C has finished the payment and has left the payment processing device 10-1. If period T14 exceeds a predetermined lower limit and is less than a predetermined upper limit, the payment processing device determination unit 302 decides to use the payment processing device 10-1 for payment.

[0095] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 18 shows a case where a passerby D, who is carrying a terminal 20 and is not making a payment for goods, moves from left to right in front of the payment processing device 10-1 operated by the seller F.

[0096] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the target payment processing device using the acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor. For example, in the case shown in Figure 18, the acceleration sensor always detects a relatively large change in acceleration over time because the passerby D is continuously walking, and unlike the case shown in Figure 17, it does not detect a relatively small change in acceleration over time. If the period during which a relatively small change in acceleration over time is detected is below a predetermined lower limit period, the payment processing device determination unit 302 decides not to use the payment processing device 10-1 for payment.

[0097] Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the payment processing device determination unit according to the embodiment determines the target payment processing device. Figure 19 shows the case where the terminal 20 is carried by the seller F who is operating the payment processing device 10-1.

[0098] The payment processing device determination unit 302 determines the target payment processing device using the acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor. For example, in the case shown in Figure 19, the acceleration sensor detects a relatively small change in acceleration over time because the seller F is not walking during period T16, which is the period after the seller F has come near the payment processing device 10-1 to perform payment processing. On the other hand, in the case shown in Figure 19, for example, the acceleration sensor detects a relatively large change in acceleration over time because the seller F is walking towards the payment processing device 10-1 during periods other than period T16. If period T16 is longer than a predetermined upper limit period, the payment processing device determination unit 302 decides not to use the payment processing device 10-1 for payment.

[0099] Furthermore, the payment processing device determination unit 302 may train a machine learning model using the relationship between the target payment processing device and the temporal change in acceleration as training data, and use the trained machine learning model to assist in determining the target payment processing device.

[0100] Furthermore, if a payment different from the intended payment is executed by the terminal, the payment management system 1 will perform the process described below to re-link the terminal with the payment.

[0101] Figure 20 illustrates an example of the process executed by the payment management system when it is determined that the transmitted and received radio wave strength has not decreased after a different payment method than the original payment has been executed by the terminal according to the embodiment. Figure 20 shows a case where a user (purchaser) C1 who does not use the payment management system 1 makes a payment, and then a user C2 who does use the payment management system 1 makes a payment. The graph shown in Figure 20 also shows an example of the change in transmitted and received radio wave strength over time.

[0102] As shown in the upper left of Figure 20, even when user C1 is making a payment, during the period T181 when user C2 is near the payment processing device 10-1, the transmitted and received radio wave strength between the terminal carried by user C2 and the payment processing device 10-1 exceeds the threshold TH18. In this case, the payment made by user C1 may be mistakenly executed on the terminal carried by user C2. However, as shown in the upper right of Figure 20, even after user C1 has finished the payment and moved away from the payment processing device 10-1, the transmitted and received radio wave strength between the terminal carried by user C2 and the payment processing device 10-1 remains at or above the strength shown in the upper left of Figure 20 during period T182. Therefore, after a different payment is executed by the payment execution unit 206, the payment processing device determination unit 302 can determine whether the signal strength has decreased based on the temporal change in radio wave strength represented by the graph shown in Figure 20.

[0103] Next, an example of the processing performed by the terminal and payment management device according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 21. Figure 21 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing performed by the payment management system according to the embodiment during payment.

[0104] The payment processing device 10 transmits a first signal using the first signal transmission unit 101 (step S101). The terminal 20 receives the first signal transmitted by the payment processing device 10 using the second signal receiving unit 202 (step S201). Meanwhile, the terminal 20 transmits a second signal using the second signal transmission unit 201 (step S203). The payment processing device 10 receives the second signal transmitted by the terminal 20 using the first signal receiving unit 102 (step S103).

[0105] Next, the payment processing device 10 measures the intensity of the second signal received by the first signal receiving unit 102 and generates second signal radio wave intensity data corresponding to the measured intensity (step S105). The payment processing device 10 transmits the generated second signal radio wave intensity data, along with the first signal data and the received second signal data, to the payment management device 30.

[0106] Meanwhile, terminal 20 measures the strength of the first signal received by the second signal receiving unit 202 and generates first signal radio wave strength data corresponding to the measured strength (step S205). Terminal 20 transmits the generated first signal radio wave strength data, along with the second signal data and the received first signal data, to the payment management device 30.

[0107] Next, the payment management device 30 calculates the transmitted and received signal strength based on the second signal signal strength indicated by the second signal signal strength data transmitted by the payment processing device 10 and the first signal signal strength indicated by the first signal signal strength data transmitted by the terminal 20. Based on the calculated transmitted and received signal strength, the payment management device 30 determines, for example, one of the payment processing devices 10 to be the target payment processing device for the terminal 20. The payment management device 30 then links the determined target payment processing device 10 with the terminal 20 in the linking unit 303 (step S301).

[0108] Next, the payment processing device 10 generates payment details data in the data provision unit 103 and transmits the generated payment details data to the payment management device 30 (step S107). Meanwhile, the terminal 20 generates payment method data in the payment method determination unit 203 and transmits the generated payment method data to the payment management device 30 (step S207). The payment management device 30 acquires the transmitted payment details data and payment method data.

[0109] Next, the payment management device 30 links the payment method indicated by the acquired payment method data and the payment indicated by the payment content data to the previously linked payment processing device 10 and terminal 20 in the linking unit 303 (step S303). Subsequently, the payment management device 30 generates intention confirmation instruction data in the intention confirmation unit 304 and sends it to the terminal 20, causing the terminal 20 to execute a process to confirm that user C intends to purchase the goods (step S305).

[0110] Upon receiving the intention confirmation instruction data, terminal 20 executes a process to confirm with user C whether they intend to purchase the product (step S209). If the intention confirmation unit 205 determines that user C intends to purchase the product, it transmits the intention confirmation information to the payment management device 30.

[0111] Next, when the payment management device 30 receives the confirmation information transmitted by the terminal 20, it generates payment instruction data in the payment execution unit 305 and transmits the generated payment instruction data to the payment processing device 10 and the terminal 20 to instruct them to execute the payment (step S307). Upon receiving the payment instruction data, the payment processing device 10 executes the payment in the payment execution unit 104 in accordance with the instructions from the payment management device 30. After completing the payment, the payment processing device 10 generates payment completion data (step S109) and transmits it to the payment management device 30.

[0112] Upon receiving the payment instruction data, terminal 20 executes the payment in the payment execution unit 206 in accordance with the instructions of the payment management device 30. After completing the payment, terminal 20 generates payment completion data (step S211) and transmits it to the payment management device 30. Upon receiving the payment completion data transmitted by the payment processing device 10 and terminal 20, the payment management device 30 confirms the completion of the payment in the payment management unit 306 (step S309).

[0113] The payment management system 1, including the payment processing device 10, terminal 20, and payment management device 30 according to the embodiment, has been described above. Noise may occur in the first signal radio wave strength measured by the first signal receiving unit 102 and the second signal radio wave strength measured by the second signal receiving unit 202. This noise is particularly noticeable when the first signal transmitter 17 and the second signal transmitter 27 are Bluetooth®. When noise occurs, the accuracy of the radio wave strength measurement decreases, which makes it easier for errors to occur in the calculation result of the distance between the payment processing device 10 and the terminal 20.

[0114] In this regard, in the payment management system 1 of the embodiment, the payment processing device 10 comprises a first signal transmitting unit 101 and a first signal receiving unit 102, and the terminal 20 comprises a second signal transmitting unit 201 and a second signal receiving unit 202. The first signal transmitting unit 101 transmits a first signal to the second signal receiving unit 202, and the second signal transmitting unit 201 transmits a second signal to the first signal receiving unit 102. The first signal receiving unit 102 receives the second signal and provides the payment management device 30 with second signal data indicating the strength of the second signal, and the second signal receiving unit 202 receives the first signal and provides the payment management device 30 with first signal data indicating the strength of the first signal.

[0115] The payment management device 30 calculates the distance between the payment processing device 10 and the terminal 20 based on the first signal strength provided by the payment processing device 10 and the second signal strength provided by the terminal 20. Based on the calculated distance, the payment management device 30 determines the target payment processing device.

[0116] Therefore, even if, for example, the first signal strength contains an error due to noise, the second signal strength is measured, which reduces the impact of the error in the first signal strength. This reduces the error in the calculation of the distance between the payment processing device 10 and the terminal 20. Consequently, it is possible to suppress misinterpretations of the relationship between the user and the payment processing device when executing a payment.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the payment processing device determination unit 302 of the payment management device 30 determines the target payment management device. However, instead of or in addition to the payment processing device determination unit 302, the payment processing device 10 may be provided with a terminal determination unit that determines the terminal 20 to be settled. In this case, the terminal determination unit may be provided, for example, in the payment processing device 10.

[0118] In the above embodiment, the payment processing device 10 is operated by the seller of the goods, but the payment processing device 10 may also be operated by someone other than the seller of the goods, such as a user. Furthermore, the payment processing device 10 may be a device that automatically performs payment without requiring any operation from the seller or user, for example, simply by placing the goods on it.In addition, in the above embodiment, the two-dimensional code attached to the goods is read by a code reader provided in the payment processing device 10, but the two-dimensional code attached to the goods may also be provided, for example, on a shopping basket that holds the goods or a cart that carries the shopping basket when the user is selecting the goods to purchase.

[0119] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 1…Payment management system, 10(10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-k)…Payment processing device, 11,21,31…Processor, 12,22,32…Main memory, 13,23,33…Communication interface, 14,24,34…Auxiliary memory, 15,25,35…Input / output device, 17…First signal transmitter, 18…First signal receiver, 19,29,37…Bus, 20…Terminal, 26…Sensor, 27…Second signal transmitter, 28…Second signal receiver, 30…Payment management device, 100…Radio wave transceiver, 100 ...Radio wave transmitting and receiving device, 101...First signal transmitting unit, 102...First signal receiving unit, 103, 204...Data provision unit, 104, 206, 305...Settlement execution unit, 201...Second signal transmitting unit, 202...Second signal receiving unit, 203...Settlement method determination unit, 205...Intention confirmation unit, 301...Data acquisition unit, 302...Settlement processing unit determination unit, 303...Linking unit, 304...Intention confirmation unit, 306...Settlement management unit, C, C1, C2...User, D...Passerby, F, F1, F2...Seller, NA...Network, NB...Network

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires first signal data provided by a payment processing device used for settling payments for goods purchased by a user, which comprises a first signal transmitting unit and a first signal receiving unit, and second signal data provided by a terminal associated with the user, which comprises a second signal transmitting unit and a second signal receiving unit. The system includes a payment processing device determination unit that calculates the distance between the user and the payment processing device based on the first signal data and the second signal data, and determines the target payment processing device to be used by the user for payment processing based on the calculated distance, The first signal data is data based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the second signal transmitting unit has been received by the first signal receiving unit. The second signal data is data based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the first signal transmitting unit has been received by the second signal receiving unit. Information processing device.

2. The payment processing device determination unit calculates the distance between the user and the payment processing device based on a representative value derived from the statistics of the first measured value indicated by the first signal data and the second measured value indicated by the second signal data. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned representative value includes the average value of the first measurement and the average value of the second measurement. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The payment processing device determination unit sets a measurement start reference value for either the first measurement value or the second measurement value, and determines the target payment processing device when the first measurement value or the second measurement value exceeds the measurement start reference value. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3.

5. A first timing for transmitting the first signal data by the first signal transmission unit, The second timing at which the second signal data is transmitted by the second signal transmission unit is made different from the second timing at which the second signal data is transmitted. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The payment processing device determination unit determines the target payment processing device based on the time-series change of the calculated distance. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The payment processing device determination unit sets a time reference value for determining the target payment processing device based on the layout around the payment processing device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The payment processing device determination unit sets the time reference value based on a time-series change model of the distance corresponding to the layout around the payment processing device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The payment processing device determination unit sets the time reference value using a trained model that has learned the time-series change of the distance according to the layout around the payment processing device as training data. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.

10. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, A payment processing device comprising the first signal transmitting unit and the first signal receiving unit, used for settling payments for goods purchased by the user, The terminal comprises the second signal transmitting unit and the second signal receiving unit, and is associated with the user, Information processing system.

11. A data acquisition unit that acquires terminal identification data indicating the terminal, payment processing device identification data indicating the payment processing device, payment method data indicating the payment method used to pay for the goods purchased by the user, and payment content data indicating the details of the payment for the goods. A linking unit that links the terminal indicated by the terminal identification data, the payment processing device indicated by the payment processing device identification data, the payment method indicated by the payment method data, and the payment details of the product indicated by the payment details data, An intention confirmation unit that causes the terminal to execute a process to confirm the user's intention to purchase the aforementioned product, The system further includes a payment execution unit that causes the terminal and the payment processing device to execute the payment for the aforementioned products. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. The computer of the information processing device of the information processing system described in claim 10, The system acquires first signal data provided by a payment processing device that includes a first signal transmitting unit and a first signal receiving unit and is used for settling payments for goods purchased by the user, and second signal data provided by a terminal associated with the user, which includes a second signal transmitting unit and a second signal receiving unit. Based on the first signal data and the second signal data, the distance between the user and the payment processing device is calculated, and based on the calculated distance, the payment processing device to process the payment is determined. The first signal data is data based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the second signal transmitting unit has been received by the first signal receiving unit. The second signal data is data based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the first signal transmitting unit has been received by the second signal receiving unit. Information processing methods.

13. The computer of the payment processing device of the information processing system according to claim 10: The first signal transmission unit outputs a signal, The first signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted by the second signal transmitting unit, The first signal data, based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the second signal transmitting unit has been received by the first signal receiving unit, is provided to the information processing device. A program that executes a process.

14. The computer of the terminal of the information processing system according to claim 10: The second signal transmission unit outputs a signal, The second signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted by the first signal transmitting unit, The information processing device is provided with second signal data based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the first signal transmitting unit has been received by the second signal receiving unit. A program that executes a process.

15. The computer of the information processing device of the information processing system described in claim 10: The system acquires first signal data provided by a payment processing device, which includes a first signal transmitting unit and a first signal receiving unit and is used for settling payments for goods purchased by the user, and second signal data provided by a terminal associated with the user, which includes a second signal transmitting unit and a second signal receiving unit. Based on the first signal data and the second signal data, the distance between the user and the payment processing device is calculated, and based on the calculated distance, the payment processing device is instructed to determine the target payment processing device for which the payment will be processed. The first signal data is data based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the second signal transmitting unit has been received by the first signal receiving unit. The second signal data is data based on the fact that the signal transmitted by the first signal transmitting unit has been received by the second signal receiving unit. program.

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