Information terminal, information processing method, and program

Abstract

This system provides a mechanism that allows payments to be made regardless of whether the user's device can communicate with the server. [Solution] The information terminal 2 includes a first determination unit 262 that determines whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station, a second determination unit 263 that determines whether a second communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device via a communication satellite, and a settlement processing unit 264 that, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, executes a process for communicating with the information processing device and making a settlement, and if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is not available, executes a process for making a settlement without communicating with the information processing device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information terminal, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a payment service that uses codes such as two-dimensional codes for payment has been known. Patent Document 1 discloses a system in which a user terminal displays a two-dimensional code generated based on information acquired from a server, and a store terminal executes a payment process in response to reading the two-dimensional code.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In order to execute a payment process in the conventional technology, it is necessary for a user terminal to communicate with a server. However, when the user terminal is located in a place where it is difficult to communicate with the server, such as underground or in mountainous areas, a situation may occur where the user terminal cannot communicate with the server. Therefore, there is a need to provide a mechanism that can perform payment regardless of whether the user terminal can communicate with the server.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of these points, and an object thereof is to provide a mechanism that can perform payment regardless of whether a user terminal can communicate with a server.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An information terminal according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a first determination unit that determines whether a first communication method for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station is available; a second determination unit that determines whether a second communication method for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite is available; and a settlement processing unit that, if the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, executes a process for communicating with the information processing device to perform a settlement; and if the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, executes a process for performing a settlement without communicating with the information processing device.

[0007] The second communication method may be a communication method in which the information terminal communicates directly with the communication satellite. The second determination unit may determine whether the second communication method is available based on whether the information terminal has the function to use the second communication method.

[0008] The second determination unit may determine whether the second communication method is available based on whether the use of the second communication method is permitted in the operating system of the information terminal.

[0009] If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is unavailable, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is unavailable, the settlement processing unit may generate a code image used for settlement based on pre-stored information, and display the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for settlement without communicating with the information processing device.

[0010] If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, the settlement processing unit may generate a code image used for settlement based on the information obtained from the information processing device, and display the generated code image on the display unit, thereby communicating with the information processing device and performing the settlement process.

[0011] The settlement processing unit may generate the code image based on the code information included in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device for requesting the transmission of code information for generating the code image, which specifies whether the communication method for communicating with the information processing device is the first communication method or the second communication method.

[0012] When the settlement processing unit transmits the transmission request corresponding to the first communication method to the information processing unit, it may obtain first response information, which is the response information with a first amount of information, from the information processing unit, and display a first display screen including the code image on the display unit based on the first response information. When the settlement processing unit transmits the transmission request corresponding to the second communication method to the information processing unit, it may obtain second response information, which is the response information with a second amount of information less than the first amount of information, from the information processing unit, and display a second display screen including the code image, which has a second amount of information less than the first display screen, on the display unit based on the second response information.

[0013] The first response information may include payment-necessary information, which is information necessary for making a payment, and payment-additional information, which is information not necessary for making a payment. The second response information may include the payment-necessary information, but may not include at least a portion of the payment-additional information included in the first response information. When the payment processing unit obtains the first response information from the information processing unit, it may display a first display screen on the display unit that includes the code image generated based on the payment-necessary information included in the first response information and the payment-additional information included in the first response information. When the payment processing unit obtains the second response information from the information processing unit, it may display a second display screen on the display unit that includes at least the code image generated based on the payment-necessary information included in the second response information.

[0014] The settlement processing unit may generate the code image based on the acquired response information if it obtains the response information before a predetermined first period has elapsed since it sent the transmission request to the information processing device using the first communication method, or it may generate the code image based on the acquired response information if it obtains the response information before a predetermined second period, which is longer than the first period, has elapsed since it sent the transmission request to the information processing device using the second communication method.

[0015] If the settlement processing unit does not obtain the response information before the first period has elapsed since sending the transmission request to the information processing unit using the first communication method, or if it does not obtain the response information before the second period has elapsed since sending the transmission request to the information processing unit using the second communication method, it may execute a process for settlement without communicating with the information processing unit.

[0016] The second determination unit may determine whether the second communication method is available if the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is unavailable.

[0017] The settlement processing unit may display the display screen showing the code image used for settlement in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, or whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available.

[0018] The settlement processing unit may display the display screen for reading the code image used for settlement in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available or whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available.

[0019] An information processing method according to a second aspect of the present invention includes the steps of: determining whether a first communication method can be used, which is executed by a computer, to communicate with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station; determining whether a second communication method can be used, which is to communicate with the information processing device via a communication satellite; and, if it is determined that the first communication method can be used, or if it is determined that the second communication method can be used, executing a process for communicating with the information processing device to perform a settlement; and if it is determined that the first communication method cannot be used and the second communication method cannot be used, executing a process for performing a settlement without communicating with the information processing device.

[0020] The program according to the third aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as a first determination unit that determines whether the first communication method for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlement via a ground station is available, a second determination unit that determines whether the second communication method for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite is available, and when the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available or when the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, executes a process for performing settlement by communicating with the information processing device, and when the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, executes a process for performing settlement without communicating with the information processing device as a settlement processing unit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0021] According to the present invention, there is an effect that a mechanism capable of performing settlement can be provided regardless of whether the user's terminal can communicate with the server.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 2] It is a sequence diagram showing the flow of online CPM settlement means. [Figure 3] It is a sequence diagram showing the flow of offline CPM settlement means. [Figure 4] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the relationship between predetermined conditions and the availability of settlement means. [Figure 5] It is a diagram schematically showing the functional configuration of an information terminal. [Figure 6] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an online CPM settlement screen. [Figure 7] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of a CPM settlement screen. [Figure 8] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an MPM settlement screen. [Figure 9]This is a flowchart showing the processing flow performed by an information terminal. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0023] [Overview of Information Processing System S] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the information processing system S. The information processing system S is a system used to provide information processing services. The information processing service is a service for providing cashless payment. The information processing system S has an information processing device 1 and an information terminal 2.

[0024] Information processing device 1 is a device that manages information processing services, and is, for example, a server.

[0025] Information terminal 2 is a device used by the user, such as a smartphone or tablet. The user is, for example, a member of an information processing service. Information terminal 2 has, for example, a dedicated application program (hereinafter referred to as "dedicated app") installed for providing information processing services. The user can pay for goods and services by using the dedicated app.

[0026] Information terminal 2 performs settlement by accessing network N using a predetermined communication method and sending and receiving information with information processing device 1. The predetermined communication method includes a first communication method and a second communication method. The first communication method is a communication method in which information terminal 2 performs settlement using terrestrial communication, communicating with information processing device 1 via ground station A. For example, this is a communication method in which information terminal 2 communicates for settlement using a terrestrial mobile communication system such as 4G (Generation) or 5G. The second communication method is a communication method in which information terminal 2 performs settlement using satellite communication, communicating with information processing device 1 directly or indirectly via communication satellite B. For example, information terminal 2 communicates indirectly with communication satellite B by communicating with communication satellite B via a connecting device connected to communication satellite B. Between the first and second communication methods, the second communication method is a communication method with lower communication quality (for example, narrower bandwidth, slower communication speed, smaller communication capacity, etc.) than the first communication method.

[0027] The information processing service provides multiple payment methods. These payment methods include MPM payment methods and CPM payment methods. The MPM payment method is a payment method in which payment is made by having the information terminal 2 read a code image presented by a store terminal (not shown). The store terminal is, for example, a terminal used by a store that provides goods or services. The code image is an image used for payment, and is an image displaying a code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code. The CPM payment method is a payment method in which payment is made by having the store terminal (not shown) read a code image generated by the information terminal 2.

[0028] The information processing service further provides CPM payment methods depending on the availability of communication. CPM payment methods include online CPM payment methods and offline CPM payment methods. Online CPM payment methods are used when at least one of the first and second communication methods is available. For example, an online CPM payment method is used to generate a code image using acquired information obtained by communicating with the information processing device 1 when the information terminal 2 executes a generation process to generate a code image, and then has the store terminal read the generated code image to complete the payment.

[0029] Figure 2 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of an online CPM payment method. For example, when a user performs an operation to make a payment using the CPM payment method on the display screen of a dedicated application (e.g., home screen, menu screen, etc.), the information terminal 2 communicates with the information processing device 1 and executes the process for making the payment, provided that either the first communication method or the second communication method is available. First, the information terminal 2 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 to request the transmission of code information (S11). The code information is information for generating a code.

[0030] When the information processing device 1 receives a transmission request, it generates online code information and offline code information (S12). The information processing device 1 associates the generated online code information and offline code information with the user ID corresponding to the information terminal 2 and stores it (S13), and transmits the generated online code information and offline code information to the information terminal 2 (S14).

[0031] When the information terminal 2 obtains online code information and offline code information from the information processing device 1, it stores the offline code information, generates a code image based on the online code information as acquired information (S15), and displays the generated code image on the display screen of the dedicated application (S16).

[0032] When the store terminal reads the code image displayed on the information terminal 2 (S17), it transmits the online code information obtained by reading the code image to the information processing device 1 (S18). The information processing device 1 then authenticates whether or not the online code information obtained from the store terminal is stored (S19), and if authenticated, it executes the payment based on the electronic money associated with the user ID linked to the online code information (S20).

[0033] The offline CPM payment method is a CPM payment method used when both the first and second communication methods are unavailable. For example, it is a payment method that uses stored information pre-stored in the information terminal 2 to generate a code image, which is then read by the store terminal to complete the payment. The offline CPM payment method may be used regardless of whether the second communication method is available or not, even if the first communication method is unavailable.

[0034] Figure 3 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of the offline CPM payment method. For example, when a user performs an operation to make a payment using the CPM payment method on the display screen of the dedicated application, the information terminal 2 executes a process to make the payment without communicating with the information processing device 1 if both the first and second communication methods are unavailable. First, the information terminal 2 generates a code image based on offline code information that is stored in advance as stored information (S21), and displays the generated code image on the display screen of the dedicated application (S22). For example, the information terminal 2 generates a code image based on terminal-added code information which is the offline code information plus time information.

[0035] When the store terminal reads the code image displayed on the information terminal 2 (S23), it transmits the offline code information obtained by reading the code image to the information processing device 1 (S24). The information processing device 1 then authenticates based on whether or not the offline code information obtained from the store terminal is stored (S25), and if authenticated, executes payment based on the electronic money associated with the user ID of the offline code information (S26). For example, the information processing device 1 authenticates based on whether or not there is device-added code information that matches the terminal-added code information obtained from the store terminal among the device-added code information which is obtained by adding time information to one or more offline code information that is stored. In this way, the information processing system S can perform payment even when the information terminal 2 is unable to communicate with the information processing device 1.

[0036] When information terminal 2 performs payment using an offline CPM payment method, it may perform payment using the offline CPM payment method if certain conditions are met. These conditions include, for example, not exceeding the maximum number of payments made using a code image generated based on stored offline code information, or not exceeding the maximum payment amount for payments made using said code image.

[0037] For example, information terminal 2 stores count information (for example, the number of payments made using a code image generated based on the code information, or the total amount of payments). In this case, when making a payment using an offline CPM payment method, if the number of payments added to the count information exceeds the upper limit, or if the total amount added to the count information exceeds the upper limit, information terminal 2 displays a message on the dedicated app's display screen indicating that the payment cannot be made using the offline CPM payment method.

[0038] Meanwhile, if the number of additions does not exceed the upper limit, or if the amount added does not exceed the upper limit, the information terminal 2 generates a code image based on the stored offline code information and displays the generated code image on the display screen of the dedicated application. When the information terminal 2 generates a code image, it updates the count information associated with the code image, changing the number of additions to the number of transactions and the amount added to the total amount. Subsequently, if the information terminal 2 communicates with the information processing device 1 or obtains new offline code information from the information processing device 1, it resets the stored count information (for example, by deleting the contents of the count information).

[0039] The information processing device 1 may manage the count information. For example, the information processing device 1 stores count information associated with a user ID or offline code information. The information processing device 1 executes a payment based on the electronic money of the user ID associated with the authenticated offline code information if, for example, the number of payments included in the count information associated with the authenticated offline code information or the user ID associated with the offline code information does not exceed the upper limit, or if the amount added by adding the current payment amount to the total amount included in the count information does not exceed the upper limit. When the information terminal 2 executes a payment, it updates the count information associated with the user ID or offline code information, changing the number of payments to the number of transactions and the total amount to the total amount. Subsequently, when the information processing device 1 communicates with the information terminal 2 or generates new offline code information corresponding to the information terminal 2, it resets the stored count information (for example, deletes the contents of the count information).

[0040] The information processing service may provide CPM payment methods according to the payment mode, in addition to the availability of communication. The payment modes include online mode and offline mode. Online mode is a mode in which a code image is generated using acquired information obtained by communicating with the information processing device 1, triggered by the execution of the code image generation process. Offline mode is a mode in which a code image is generated using stored information pre-stored in the information terminal 2, without communicating with the information processing device 1, triggered by the execution of the code image generation process.

[0041] For example, if the payment mode is online mode and either the first or second communication method is available, the information terminal 2 executes a process for making a payment using the online CPM payment method. Also, for example, if the payment mode is offline mode, or if neither the first nor the second communication method is available, the information terminal 2 executes a process for making a payment using the offline CPM payment method.

[0042] Figure 4 schematically illustrates an example of the relationship between predetermined conditions and the availability of payment methods. As shown in Figure 4, online CPM payment methods and MPM payment methods are provided when either terrestrial communication or satellite communication is available on the information terminal 2, while offline CPM payment methods are provided regardless of whether both terrestrial communication and satellite communication are available on the information terminal 2.

[0043] It should be noted that the relationship between the specified conditions and the availability of payment methods is not limited to the example shown in Figure 4. For example, offline CPM payment methods may be provided even when the payment mode is online mode. Also, for example, online CPM payment methods and MPM payment methods may be provided on the condition that terrestrial communication is available, regardless of whether satellite communication is available or not. The following describes the functional configuration of information terminal 2.

[0044] [Functional Configuration of Information Terminal 2] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the functional configuration of information terminal 2. Information terminal 2 comprises an imaging unit 21, a display unit 22, an operation unit 23, a communication unit 24, a storage unit 25, and a control unit 26. In Figure 5, the arrows indicate the main data flow, and there may be data flows not shown in Figure 5. In Figure 5, each functional block shows the configuration of a function unit, not a hardware (device) unit. Data exchange between functional blocks may be performed via any means such as a data bus, network, or portable storage medium.

[0045] The imaging unit 21 is a camera that captures images within the imaging range. The display unit 22 is a display that shows information. The operation unit 23 is a touch panel that detects user operations. The communication unit 24 is a communication interface for connecting to ground station A or communication satellite B to access network N, and has a communication controller for sending and receiving data with external devices.

[0046] The memory unit 25 is a large-capacity storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) of the computer that makes up the information terminal 2, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that serves as the working area of ​​the information terminal 2, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores the OS (Operating System), application programs, and various information that is referenced when the application programs are executed.

[0047] The control unit 26 is a processor such as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or NPU (Neural Network Processing Unit) of the information terminal 2, and functions as an operation reception unit 261, a first determination unit 262, a second determination unit 263, and a settlement processing unit 264 (acquisition processing unit 265, generation unit 266, presentation unit 267, and transmission unit 268) by executing a program stored in the storage unit 25.

[0048] The operation reception unit 261 receives user operations. The first determination unit 262 determines whether the first communication method, which communicates with the information processing device 1 via the ground station A, is available. The first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, for example, when the communication unit 24 is connected to the ground station A, or when the radio wave strength (e.g., RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) signal strength) of the ground station A to which the communication unit 24 is connected is above a predetermined threshold.

[0049] The first determination unit 262 may determine whether the first communication method is available when the operation reception unit 261 receives a predetermined operation from the user. For example, the first determination unit 262 may determine whether the first communication method is available when the operation reception unit 261 receives an operation to make a payment as a predetermined operation from the user.

[0050] The second determination unit 263 determines whether a second communication method, which communicates with the information processing device 1 via the communication satellite B, is available. The second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, for example, when the communication unit 24 is connected to the communication satellite B, or when the radio wave strength of the communication satellite B to which the communication unit 24 is connected is above a predetermined threshold.

[0051] The second determination unit 263 may determine whether the second communication method is available based on whether the information terminal 2 has the functionality to use the second communication method. For example, the storage unit 25 stores a list of communication controllers or communication modules that can communicate with communication satellite B (for example, a list of names or model numbers).

[0052] In this case, the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available if the communication controller or communication module of the information terminal 2 is included in the list of communication controllers or communication modules stored in the storage unit 25. In this way, the information terminal 2 can determine whether or not the second communication method is available.

[0053] The second determination unit 263 may determine whether the second communication method is available based on whether the use of the second communication method is permitted in the operating system (OS) of the information terminal 2. For example, the storage unit 25 stores a list of operating systems that are permitted to communicate with communication satellite B (for example, a list of OS names or OS versions).

[0054] In this case, the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available if the OS of the information terminal 2 is included in the list of OSs stored in the storage unit 25. In this way, the information terminal 2 can determine whether or not the second communication method is available.

[0055] The second determination unit 263, for example, when the operation reception unit 261 receives a predetermined operation from the user, determines whether the first communication method is available, as determined by the first determination unit 262, and also determines whether the second communication method is available. The second determination unit 263 may determine whether the second communication method is available after the first determination unit 262 has determined whether the first communication method is available.

[0056] In this case, the second determination unit 263 may determine whether the second communication method is available if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available. By doing so, the information terminal 2 can omit the process of determining whether the second communication method is available when the first communication method is available.

[0057] The settlement processing unit 264 executes processing for settlement depending on whether the first communication method or the second communication method is available. Specifically, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the settlement processing unit 264 communicates with the information processing device 1 and executes processing for settlement.

[0058] For example, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the settlement processing unit 264 communicates with the information processing device 1 and performs settlement using the online CPM settlement method. The settlement processing unit 264 performs settlement using the online CPM settlement method by executing, for example, the following three steps.

[0059] As the first step, the acquisition processing unit 265 acquires code information from the information processing device 1. Specifically, first, when the operation reception unit 261 receives an operation to make a payment using a CPM payment method which is either an online CPM payment method or an offline CPM payment method, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 to request the transmission of code information if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available.

[0060] Then, the acquisition processing unit 265 acquires the code information transmitted by the information processing device 1 in response to the information processing device 1 acquiring the transmission request. The acquisition processing unit 265 may acquire the code information on the condition that the period from the transmission request to the acquisition of the code information is within a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.). In this case, the acquisition processing unit 265 may acquire the code information on the condition that the period from the transmission request to the acquisition of the code information is within a period determined according to whether the communication method of the information terminal 2 is the first communication method or the second communication method.

[0061] Specifically, the acquisition processing unit 265 acquires code information on the condition that the period from sending a transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the first communication method until acquiring the code information is within the first period defined for the first communication method. In addition, the acquisition processing unit 265 acquires code information on the condition that the period from sending a transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the second communication method until acquiring the code information is within the second period defined for the second communication method. The second period is a longer period than the first period.

[0062] The acquisition processing unit 265 acquires, for example, online code information and offline code information as code information. The acquisition processing unit 265 stores the acquired offline code information in the storage unit 25.

[0063] In the second step, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on the acquired information obtained by the acquisition processing unit 265. Specifically, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on the online code information acquired by the acquisition processing unit 265 as acquired information.

[0064] The generation unit 266 may generate a code image based on the acquired code information if it acquires the code information before a predetermined period has elapsed since the acquisition processing unit 265 sent the transmission request. Specifically, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on the code information if it acquires the code information before a predetermined first period has elapsed since the acquisition processing unit 265 sent the transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the first communication method. The generation unit 266 also generates a code image based on the code information if it acquires the code information before a predetermined second period has elapsed since the acquisition processing unit 265 sent the transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the second communication method. Details of the processing when the acquisition processing unit 265 does not acquire the code information before a predetermined period has elapsed since the acquisition processing unit 265 sent the transmission request will be described later.

[0065] In the third step, the presentation unit 267 presents the code image. Specifically, the presentation unit 267 displays the online CPM payment screen, which includes the code image generated by the generation unit 266 based on the online code information, on the display unit 22. In this way, the information terminal 2 can communicate with the information processing device 1 and perform the payment.

[0066] The payment processing unit 264 may display an online CPM payment screen depending on whether the first or second communication method is available. The payment processing unit 264 displays an online CPM payment screen depending on whether the first or second communication method is available by performing, for example, the following three steps.

[0067] As the first step, the acquisition processing unit 265 acquires response information from the information processing unit 1. The response information is information that the information processing unit 1 responds to when it receives a transmission request, and includes code information, and for example, information to be displayed on the display screen of a dedicated application, such as a payment screen.

[0068] Specifically, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 that specifies whether the communication method used to communicate with the information processing device 1 is the first communication method or the second communication method. For example, a dedicated application is provided with an API (Application Programming Interface) or API functions that are used depending on the communication method.

[0069] In this case, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the API or API function for the first communication method. In this case, the name of the transmission request indicates the API or API function used in the first communication method. Furthermore, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the API or API function for the second communication method. In this case, the name of the transmission request indicates the API or API function used in the second communication method.

[0070] The acquisition processing unit 265 may send a transmission request to the information processing device 1 that includes information to identify whether the communication method is the first communication method or the second communication method. For example, if the communication method is the second communication method, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 that includes a flag. The flag is information indicating that the communication method is the second communication method.

[0071] In this case, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request without a flag to the information processing device 1. Also, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request including a flag to the information processing device 1.

[0072] The acquisition processing unit 265 may send a transmission request to the information processing device 1 that includes communication method information indicating that the communication method of the information terminal 2 is either the first communication method or the second communication method, as information for identifying whether the communication method is the first communication method or the second communication method. In this case, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 that includes communication method information indicating that the communication method is the first communication method. Alternatively, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request to the information processing device 1 that includes communication method information indicating that the communication method is the second communication method.

[0073] The acquisition processing unit 265 acquires the response information transmitted by the information processing device 1 in response to the information processing device 1 acquiring the transmission request. When the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request corresponding to the first communication method to the information processing device 1, it acquires the first response information from the information processing device 1 as the response information transmitted by the information processing device 1. When the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request corresponding to the second communication method to the information processing device, it acquires the second response information from the information processing device 1 as the response information transmitted by the information processing device 1. As will be described in detail later, the first response information is response information with a first amount of information, and the second response information is response information with a second amount of information, which is less than the first amount of information.

[0074] In the second step, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on the code information acquired by the acquisition processing unit 265. For example, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on the code information contained in the response information acquired by the acquisition processing unit 265 from the information processing device 1.

[0075] In the third step, the display unit 267 displays the online CPM payment screen on the display unit 22 based on the response information acquired by the acquisition processing unit 265 from the information processing device 1. Specifically, the display unit 267 displays the online CPM payment screen corresponding to the response information acquired by the acquisition processing unit 265 from the information processing device 1.

[0076] More specifically, the display unit 267 displays a first online CPM payment screen, including a code image, on the display unit 22 based on first response information obtained from the information processing device 1 when the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request corresponding to the first communication method to the information processing device 1. Furthermore, the display unit 267 displays a second online CPM payment screen, including a code image, on the display unit 22 based on second response information obtained from the information processing device 1 when the acquisition processing unit 265 sends a transmission request corresponding to the second communication method to the information processing device 1. The second online CPM payment screen is an online CPM payment screen with less information than the first online CPM payment screen.

[0077] For example, the first response information includes both payment requirement information and payment supplementary information, while the second response information includes payment requirement information but does not include at least some of the payment supplementary information included in the first response information. Payment requirement information is information necessary to make a payment and includes, for example, code information. Payment supplementary information is information not necessary to make a payment and includes, for example, at least one of coupon information and advertising information.

[0078] In this case, when the acquisition processing unit 265 acquires first response information from the information processing device 1, the display unit 267 displays a first online CPM payment screen on the display unit 22, which includes a code image generated by the generation unit 266 based on the payment requirements information contained in the first response information, and additional payment information contained in the first response information. Furthermore, when the acquisition processing unit 265 acquires second response information from the information processing device 1, the display unit 267 displays a second online CPM payment screen on the display unit 22, which includes at least a code image generated by the generation unit 266 based on the payment requirements information contained in the second response information.

[0079] Figure 6 is a schematic representation of an example of an online CPM payment screen. Figure 6(a) is the first online CPM payment screen displayed based on the first response information. The first online CPM payment screen shown in Figure 6(a) displays display area R1 and display area R2. Display area R1 displays information necessary for payment, such as a code image and balance. Display area R2 displays information not necessary for payment, such as coupon information.

[0080] Figure 6(b) shows the second online CPM payment screen displayed based on the second response information. The payment screen shown in Figure 6(b) displays display area R1 and display area R2. Comparing the first online CPM payment screen with the second online CPM payment screen, it can be seen that the second online CPM payment screen displays less information than the first online CPM payment screen. Furthermore, it can be seen that while the display area R2 of the first online CPM payment screen displays both images and text, the display area R2 of the second online CPM payment screen displays only text. In this way, the information terminal 2 can communicate with the information processing device 1 with an amount of information corresponding to the communication method used for payment.

[0081] If the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is unavailable, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is unavailable, the settlement processing unit 264 executes a process to perform settlement without communicating with the information processing device 1. For example, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is unavailable, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is unavailable, the settlement processing unit 264 performs settlement using an offline CPM settlement means as a process to perform settlement without communicating with the information processing device 1. For example, the settlement processing unit 264 performs settlement using an offline CPM settlement means by executing the following two steps.

[0082] In the first step, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on pre-stored memory information. Specifically, when the operation reception unit 261 receives an operation to make a payment using the CPM payment method, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is unavailable and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is unavailable, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on offline code information stored in the memory unit 25 as memory information.

[0083] In the second step, the presentation unit 267 presents the code image. Specifically, the presentation unit 267 displays the offline CPM payment screen, which includes the code image generated by the generation unit 266 based on the offline code information, on the display unit 22. In this way, the information terminal 2 can perform payment without communicating with the information processing device 1.

[0084] The settlement processing unit 264 may execute a process for settling without communicating with the information processing unit 1 if it has not obtained code information within a predetermined period after sending a transmission request. Specifically, if the settlement processing unit 264 has not obtained code information within a first period after sending a transmission request to the information processing unit 1 using the first communication method, or if it has not obtained code information within a second period after sending a transmission request to the information processing unit 1 using the second communication method, it will execute a process for settling without communicating with the information processing unit 1.

[0085] For example, if the acquisition processing unit 265 fails to acquire code information within a first period after sending a transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the first communication method, or if the acquisition processing unit 265 fails to acquire code information within a second period after sending a transmission request to the information processing device 1 using the second communication method, the generation unit 266 generates a code image based on the offline code information stored in the storage unit 25. Then, the presentation unit 267 displays an offline CPM payment screen including the code image generated by the generation unit 266 based on the offline code information. In this way, the information terminal 2 can perform payment even if the acquisition of code information fails due to a timeout.

[0086] Furthermore, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is unavailable and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, and the period from when the communication unit 24 started connecting to the communication satellite B until the present time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold period (e.g., 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, etc.), the generation unit 266 may generate a code image based on the offline code information stored in the storage unit 25. Also, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is unavailable and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, and the communication bandwidth of the satellite communication is less than a predetermined threshold bandwidth (e.g., 1 Kbps, 10 Kbps, etc.), the generation unit 266 may generate a code image based on the offline code information stored in the storage unit 25.

[0087] The payment processing unit 264 may display the CPM payment screen in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, or whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is not available.

[0088] Figure 7 is a schematic representation of an example of a CPM payment screen. The CPM payment screen shown in Figure 7(a) is the screen displayed when the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available. The CPM payment screen shown in Figure 7(b) is the screen displayed when the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available. The CPM payment screen shown in Figure 7(c) is the screen displayed when the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is not available.

[0089] As shown in Figure 7, it can be seen that the CPM payment screen is displayed in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, or whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is not available. For example, the CPM payment screen shown in Figure 7(a) has the most decorations, while the CPM payment screen shown in Figure 7(c) has no decorations and only displays the code image and balance. In this way, the information terminal 2 can make it easier for the user to recognize which communication method will be used for the CPM payment.

[0090] If the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available, the settlement processing unit 264 may communicate with the information processing device 1 and perform settlement using the MPM settlement means.

[0091] Specifically, first, the display unit 267 displays the MPM payment screen. For example, when the operation reception unit 261 receives an operation to make a payment using the MPM payment method, the display unit 267 displays the MPM payment screen if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available. Then, when the imaging unit 21 reads the code image displayed by the store terminal, the transmission unit 268 transmits a payment request to the information processing device 1, which includes the information obtained by reading the code image and information indicating the payment amount, thereby communicating with the information processing device 1 and executing the process for making a payment.

[0092] The payment processing unit 264 may display the MPM payment screen in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available, or whether the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available.

[0093] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of an example of an MPM payment screen. The first MPM payment screen shown in Figure 8(a) is the display screen that is shown when the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available. The second MPM payment screen shown in Figure 8(b) is the display screen that is shown when the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available.

[0094] As shown in Figure 8, the MPM payment screen displays display area R3 and display area R4. Display area R3 displays the imaging range of the imaging unit 21. Display area R4 displays information not necessary for payment (payment supplementary information), such as coupon information. Comparing the first MPM payment screen and the second MPM payment screen, it can be confirmed that the frame of the imaging range of the imaging unit 21 displayed in display area R3 is displayed in different ways (for example, different colors or different shapes). Also, it can be confirmed that the display area R4 of the first MPM payment screen displays both images and text, while the display area R4 of the second MPM payment screen displays only text. In this way, the information terminal 2 can make it easier for the user to recognize what communication method is being used for the MPM payment method.

[0095] When a payment is made using an online CPM payment method or an MPM payment method, the payment processing unit 264 displays a payment completion screen indicating that the payment has been completed, in response to receiving completion information from the information processing unit 1. In this case, the payment processing unit 264 may display a waiting screen until it receives completion information from the information processing unit 1. Furthermore, in this case, the payment processing unit 264 may display different waiting screens depending on whether the communication with the information processing unit 1 is using the first communication method or the second communication method.

[0096] The payment processing unit 264 displays a first standby screen, for example, when communication with the information processing device 1 is using the first communication method. The first standby screen displays a message such as, "Payment is being processed." The payment processing unit 264 also displays a second standby screen, for example, when communication with the information processing device 1 is using the second communication method. The second standby screen is a different display from the first standby screen, and displays a message such as, "Payment is being processed. Payment will take some time due to satellite communication." In this way, the information terminal 2 can make the user aware of which communication method is being used to process the payment.

[0097] [Processing at Information Terminal 2] Next, we will explain the processing flow performed by information terminal 2. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing flow performed by information terminal 2. This process begins when the operation reception unit 261 receives an operation from the user to make a payment (S31).

[0098] The first determination unit 262 determines whether the first communication method is available (S32). If the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available (YES in S32), it proceeds to S34. On the other hand, if the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is not available (NO in S32), the second determination unit 263 determines whether the second communication method is available (S33).

[0099] If the first determination unit 262 determines that the first communication method is available (YES in S32), or if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is available (YES in S33), the settlement processing unit 264 executes the settlement using the online settlement method as a process for communicating with the information processing device 1 to perform the settlement (S34). On the other hand, if the second determination unit 263 determines that the second communication method is not available (NO in S33), the settlement processing unit 264 executes the settlement using the offline settlement method as a process for performing the settlement without communicating with the information processing device 1 (S35).

[0100] [Effects of this embodiment] As explained above, if the first communication method is available, or if the second communication method is available, the information terminal 2 will communicate with the information processing device 1 and perform the necessary processing for payment. If neither the first communication method nor the second communication method is available, the information terminal 2 will perform the necessary processing for payment without communicating with the information processing device 1. In this way, the information terminal 2 can provide a mechanism that allows payment to be made regardless of whether or not it is possible to communicate with the information processing device 1.

[0101] Furthermore, this invention will make it possible to contribute to Goal 9 of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), "Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation."

[0102] Although the present invention has been described above using embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of its gist. For example, all or part of the apparatus can be configured by functionally or physically distributing and integrating in any unit. Furthermore, new embodiments resulting from any combination of multiple embodiments are also included in the embodiments of the present invention. The effects of the new embodiments resulting from the combinations are combined with the effects of the original embodiments. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0103] 1. Information Processing Device 2 Information terminals 21 Imaging Department 22 Display section 23 Control section 24 Communications Department 25 Memory section 26 Control Unit 261 Operation Reception Section 262 1st Judgment Department 263 Second Judgment Section 264 Payment Processing Unit 265 Acquisition Processing Unit 266 Generation part 267 Presentation section 268 Transmitter S Information Processing System

Claims

1. A first determination unit determines whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station, A second determination unit that determines whether a second communication method for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite is available, If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, the payment processing unit generates a code image based on the code information included in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for payment, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for communicating with the information processing device to perform payment; if the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, the payment processing unit generates a code image used for payment based on pre-stored information, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for performing payment without communicating with the information processing device; It has, The settlement processing unit, as a process for performing settlement by communicating with the information processing device, displays a first display screen including the code image on the display unit based on first response information obtained from the information processing device in response to the transmission request transmitted using the first communication method, and displays a second display screen including the code image on the display unit based on second response information obtained from the information processing device in response to the transmission request transmitted using the second communication method, the second response information having less information than the first response information. Information terminal.

2. The first response information includes payment-necessary information, which is information necessary for making a payment, and payment-additional information, which is information not necessary for making a payment. The second response information includes the payment required information, but does not include at least a portion of the payment additional information included in the first response information. When the settlement processing unit obtains the first response information from the information processing unit, it causes the display unit to display a first display screen that includes the code image generated based on the settlement required information included in the first response information and the settlement additional information included in the first response information. When the settlement processing unit obtains the second response information from the information processing unit, it causes the display unit to display a second display screen that includes at least the code image generated based on the settlement required information included in the second response information. The information terminal according to claim 1.

3. A first determination unit that determines whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station, A second determination unit that determines whether a second communication method for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite is available, If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, the payment processing unit generates a code image based on the code information included in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for payment, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for communicating with the information processing device to perform payment; if the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, the payment processing unit generates a code image used for payment based on pre-stored information, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for performing payment without communicating with the information processing device; It has, The first period, defined as the time limit for transmitting the transmission request to the information processing device using the first communication method and obtaining the response information, is shorter than the second period, defined as the time limit for transmitting the transmission request to the information processing device using the second communication method and obtaining the response information. Information terminal.

4. If the settlement processing unit does not obtain the response information before the first period elapses after sending the transmission request to the information processing unit using the first communication method, or if it does not obtain the response information before the second period elapses after sending the transmission request to the information processing unit using the second communication method, it executes a process for performing settlement without communicating with the information processing unit. The information terminal according to claim 3.

5. A first determination unit that determines whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station, A second determination unit that determines whether a second communication method for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite is available, If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, the payment processing unit generates the code image based on the code information included in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for payment, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for communicating with the information processing device to perform payment; if the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, the payment processing unit generates the code image based on pre-stored information, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for performing payment without communicating with the information processing device; It has, The payment processing unit displays the display screen on which the code image is displayed in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, or whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available. Information terminal.

6. The second communication method is a communication method in which the information terminal communicates directly with the communication satellite. An information terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The second determination unit determines whether the second communication method is available based on whether the information terminal has the function to use the second communication method. An information terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. The second determination unit determines whether the second communication method is available based on whether the use of the second communication method is permitted in the operating system of the information terminal. An information terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The second determination unit determines whether the second communication method is available when the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is unavailable. An information terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. The settlement processing unit displays the display screen for reading the code image used for settlement in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available or whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available. An information terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. The settlement processing unit transmits to the information processing unit a transmission request that can identify whether the communication method for communicating with the information processing unit is the first communication method or the second communication method. An information terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

12. A computer executes A step of determining whether it is possible to use a first communication method that communicates with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station, A step of determining whether it is possible to use a second communication method that communicates with the information processing device via a communication satellite, If it is determined that the first communication method is available, or if it is determined that the second communication method is available, the process for performing a settlement by communicating with the information processing device is executed by generating a code image based on the code information contained in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for settlement, and displaying the generated code image on the display unit. If it is determined that the first communication method is unavailable and the second communication method is unavailable, the process for performing a settlement without communicating with the information processing device is executed by generating a code image used for settlement based on pre-stored information, and displaying the generated code image on the display unit. It has, In the step of executing a process for making a payment, as a process for making a payment by communicating with the information processing device, a first display screen including the code image is displayed on the display unit based on first response information obtained from the information processing device in response to the transmission request transmitted using the first communication method, and a second display screen including the code image is displayed on the display unit based on second response information obtained from the information processing device in response to the transmission request transmitted using the second communication method, the second response information having less information than the first response information. Information processing methods.

13. Computers, A first determination unit determines whether or not it is possible to use a first communication method that communicates with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station. A second determination unit that determines whether or not it is possible to use a second communication method that communicates with the information processing device via a communication satellite, and If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, the settlement processing unit generates a code image based on the code information included in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for settlement, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for settlement by communicating with the information processing device. If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, the settlement processing unit generates a code image used for settlement based on pre-stored information, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for settlement without communicating with the information processing device. To make it function as, The settlement processing unit, as a process for performing settlement by communicating with the information processing device, displays a first display screen including the code image on the display unit based on first response information obtained from the information processing device in response to the transmission request transmitted using the first communication method, and displays a second display screen including the code image on the display unit based on second response information obtained from the information processing device in response to the transmission request transmitted using the second communication method, the second response information having less information than the first response information. program.

14. A computer executes, A step of determining whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station, A step of determining whether a second communication method is available for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite, If it is determined that the first communication method is available, or if it is determined that the second communication method is available, the process for performing a settlement by communicating with the information processing device is executed by generating a code image based on the code information contained in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for settlement, and displaying the generated code image on the display unit. If it is determined that the first communication method is not available, and it is determined that the second communication method is not available, the process for performing a settlement without communicating with the information processing device is executed by generating a code image used for settlement based on pre-stored information, and displaying the generated code image on the display unit. It has, The first period, defined as the time limit for transmitting the transmission request to the information processing device using the first communication method and obtaining the response information, is shorter than the second period, defined as the time limit for transmitting the transmission request to the information processing device using the second communication method and obtaining the response information. Information processing methods.

15. A computer, A first determination unit determines whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station. A second determination unit that determines whether a second communication method for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite is available, and If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, the settlement processing unit generates a code image based on the code information included in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for settlement, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for settlement by communicating with the information processing device. If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, the settlement processing unit generates a code image used for settlement based on pre-stored information, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for settlement without communicating with the information processing device. To make it function as, The first period, defined as the time limit for transmitting the transmission request to the information processing device using the first communication method and obtaining the response information, is shorter than the second period, defined as the time limit for transmitting the transmission request to the information processing device using the second communication method and obtaining the response information. program.

16. A computer executes, A step of determining whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station, A step of determining whether a second communication method is available for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite, If it is determined that the first communication method is available, or if it is determined that the second communication method is available, the process for performing a settlement by communicating with the information processing device is executed by generating a code image based on the code information contained in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for settlement, and displaying the generated code image on the display unit; if it is determined that the first communication method is not available, and it is determined that the second communication method is not available, the process for performing a settlement without communicating with the information processing device is executed by generating a code image based on pre-stored information and displaying the generated code image on the display unit; It has, In the step of executing a process for making a payment, the display screen on which the code image is displayed is displayed in different ways depending on whether it is determined that the first communication method is available, whether it is determined that the first communication method is not available and the second communication method is available, or whether it is determined that the first communication method is not available and the second communication method is not available. Information processing methods.

17. A computer, A first determination unit determines whether a first communication method is available for communicating with an information processing device that manages settlements via a ground station. A second determination unit that determines whether a second communication method for communicating with the information processing device via a communication satellite is available, and If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, or if the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, the settlement processing unit generates the code image based on the code information included in the response information obtained from the information processing device in response to sending a transmission request to the information processing device to request the transmission of code information for generating a code image used for settlement, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for settlement by communicating with the information processing device. If the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available, and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available, the settlement processing unit generates the code image based on pre-stored information, and displays the generated code image on the display unit, thereby executing a process for settlement without communicating with the information processing device. To make it function as, The payment processing unit displays the display screen on which the code image is displayed in different ways depending on whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is available, whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is available, or whether the first determination unit determines that the first communication method is not available and the second determination unit determines that the second communication method is not available. program.

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