Server equipment and digital gift system

Abstract

We provide digital gift services using virtual credit numbers (VCNs). [Solution] This disclosure deals with post-use settlement voucher data that does not include monetary value as a security, but includes an identification code that identifies the gift certificate data and simple monetary information that can be used by the recipient of the gift certificate. In this case, the server device acting as a gateway performs the following processes: receiving the identification code and monetary information contained in the post-use settlement voucher data from a POS register device that has read the post-use settlement voucher data; transmitting the identification code and monetary information to the giver's computer; obtaining a virtual credit number from the computer to which monetary value equivalent to the monetary information has been charged; transmitting the virtual credit number to the settlement system and requesting the execution of settlement processing for the amount using the credit number; and receiving the execution result of the settlement processing from the pre-payment system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a server device and a digital gift system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been a custom of giving gifts as greetings or gratitude, and in some cases, a voucher that allows the recipient to receive an item at an appropriate timing may be given instead of the item. Such vouchers are not currency or subsidiary currency, but are negotiable securities that circulate in a form similar to currency. For example, various vouchers according to the intended use, such as commodity vouchers, library cards, gift cards, etc., are issued in the form of a physical medium such as paper.

[0003] In recent years, instead of the conventional cash settlement, so-called cashless settlement has become widespread in Japan. Even for the above-mentioned vouchers, instead of a physical medium such as paper, the information of specific products or gift cards is digitized, and digital gifts in the form of an address information which is a URL or a code such as a two-dimensional barcode have also begun to spread (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] In addition, digital gift services using platforms are also provided. In such services, for example, the giver of a digital gift pays a fee to a platform which is the issuer of the digital gift to obtain the digital gift and send it to the recipient. The recipient can receive a product in exchange for the digital gift at a physical store. Then, the physical store presents the digital gift to the above platform and receives payment for the product.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in order to develop and widely popularize digital gift services using the above platform, the platform provider faces several challenges, including the need to connect the platform to the POS register (POS system) in physical stores, which incurs excessive costs; the complexity of system operation and management, resulting in high operating costs; and the high cost of security measures. Furthermore, the users of the digital gift service (companies operating physical stores) face several challenges, including the high cost of connecting their POS register to the platform, which is a significant burden, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises; the complexity of balance management; and the requirement to pay a large deposit (issuance guarantee) to the Legal Affairs Bureau.

[0007] Meanwhile, in recent years, a system called Virtual Credit Number (VCN) has been introduced and is actually being deployed. This Virtual Credit Number (VCN) is a credit card service that does not require a physical card, as it is issued without a physical card. For example, any number of 16-digit card numbers can be issued depending on the purpose of use, and usage conditions can be set for each card number, as well as data management can be performed, so credit card payments can be introduced with high security. For this reason, it is attracting attention as an ideal system for companies that were unable to introduce credit card payments due to the risk of fraudulent use, or for companies that are troubled by the hassle of expense reimbursement using credit card payments. Therefore, after careful consideration, the inventors decided to solve the problems of the above-mentioned current digital gift services by using Virtual Credit Number (VCN). In light of these circumstances, this disclosure proposes a technology for providing digital gift services using virtual credit numbers (VCNs). [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, this disclosure provides, as an example, a server device that processes post-use payment voucher data distributed from a giver to a recipient and used by the recipient, A storage device that holds a program for processing the aforementioned gift certificate data, The system comprises a processor that reads the program from the storage device and processes the gift certificate data, The aforementioned used payment voucher data does not itself contain monetary value as a security, and includes an identification code that identifies the used payment voucher data and information about a mere amount that the recipient can use. The aforementioned processor, A process of receiving the identification code and amount information contained in the used payment voucher data from a POS register device that has read the used payment voucher data, A process of transmitting the aforementioned identification code and the aforementioned amount information to the giver's computer, A process of obtaining a virtual credit number from the first computer to which a monetary value equivalent to the amount information is charged, A process that transmits the virtual credit number to the payment system and requests the execution of a payment process for the amount using the credit number, A process for receiving the execution result of the aforementioned settlement process from the settlement system, We propose a server device to execute this.

[0009] Further features relating to this disclosure will become apparent from the description herein and the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, aspects of this disclosure are achieved and realized by elements and various combinations of elements and the modes of the claims described herein in detail thereafter. The descriptions herein are typical examples only and do not limit in any way the claims or applications of this disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The technology disclosed herein will enable the provision of a highly secure digital gift service that also reduces the financial burden of implementation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This figure shows a schematic configuration example of the digital gift system 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the hardware and software configuration of user 1's computer 10. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the hardware and software configuration of the Virtual Credit Number (VCN) generation and management system 20. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the hardware and software configuration of user 2's computer 40. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of the hardware and software of the POS register device 50. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of the hardware and software of the server device 60. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the processing and processing sequence of each device in the digital gift system 1 according to this embodiment when a new virtual credit number (VCN) is used (when the VCN is not reused). [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the processing and processing sequence of each device in the digital gift system 1 according to this embodiment when a virtual credit number (VCN) is reused. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] This embodiment proposes a digital gift service that distributes gift certificates that do not embody monetary value as securities, and after the gift certificate is used, charges the amount indicated on the gift certificate to a virtual credit number (VCN) and processes the payment.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, functionally identical elements may sometimes be denoted by the same number. Although the accompanying drawings show specific embodiments and implementation examples in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, these are for the purpose of understanding the present disclosure and are not used to limit the interpretation of the present disclosure in any way.

[0014] In this embodiment, the description is provided in sufficient detail for those skilled in the art to implement the present disclosure. However, other implementations and forms are possible, and it is necessary to understand that changes in configuration and structure and replacement of various elements can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the technical idea of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following description should not be construed as being limited thereto.

[0015] <Digital Gift System Schematic Configuration Example> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a digital gift system 1 according to this embodiment. The digital gift system 1 includes, for example, a computer 10 of user 1 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as user 1_10), a virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20, a settlement system 30, a computer 40 of user 2 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as user 2_40), a POS (Point of Sales) register device 50, and a server device 60.

[0016] User 1_10 is a computer that distributes gift certificates to User 2. User 1 may be an individual (giving gift certificate data as a present to a specific person) or a business (distributing gift certificate data to multiple consumers as a promotion, etc.). User 1_10 instructs (requests) the Virtual Credit Number (VCN) Generation and Management System 20 to generate virtual credit numbers (VCNs) (requesting the generation of one or more virtual credit numbers) and obtains the generated virtual credit numbers (VCNs). User 1_10 also generates a gift certificate code (identification information for the gift certificate), generates gift certificate data including the gift certificate amount information and converts it into a QR code (registered trademark) and transmits (distributes) it to User 2_40. Here, the gift certificate data is data that is composed of linking (associating) the amount information as a mere numerical value (unlike regular gift certificates, it does not have monetary value in itself and is not made into a cash voucher) with the gift certificate code (it only contains the gift certificate code and amount information). In other words, the gift certificate (gift certificate data) in this embodiment is a concept different from ordinary gift certificates as securities (similar to coupons distributed on the street, etc.), and is post-payment gift certificate data (also called "post-payment gift certificate data" or "post-payment gift certificate data") which is settled between the giver's computer (user 1_10), the gateway (corresponding to server device 60), and the credit company (payment system 30) after the gift certificate has been used by the recipient (user 2). In the digital gift system 1 according to this embodiment, since it does not handle gift certificates or gift certificates (securities) that have monetary value, even if user 1 (giver) is a business, it is not necessary to pay a deposit to the Finance Bureau. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the financial and operational burden on businesses in distributing gift certificates.

[0017] Furthermore, when a gift certificate (a post-use payment voucher) distributed to user 2_40 is used, user 1_10 receives the gift certificate code and amount information contained in the used gift certificate data from server device 60. User 1_10 then obtains a virtual credit number (VCN) corresponding to the gift certificate code, charges it with an amount equivalent to the amount information, and sends (returns) the virtual credit number (VCN) to server device 60.

[0018] The virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 receives a virtual credit number generation instruction from user 1_10 and requests the payment system 30 to generate a virtual credit number. Upon receiving the virtual credit number from the payment system 30, the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 manages each virtual credit number in association with the requester's (user 1_10) information.

[0019] The payment system 30 is, for example, a computer (server device) of a credit card company. In response to a request from the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20, it generates the requested number of virtual credit numbers and sends (returns) them to the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20. The payment system 30 also receives information on the virtual credit numbers used from the server device 60, performs the payment process (debits a predetermined amount from the user 1 (giver)'s account), and sends (returns) information to the server device 60 indicating whether the payment process was successful or not.

[0020] User 2_40 is the computer (such as a smartphone) of the recipient of the gift certificate. The recipient of the gift certificate (User 2) can use the gift certificate by displaying a QR code containing the gift certificate data on the screen of User 2_40 and having the POS register 50 at the physical store (the store that sells the product) read the QR code.

[0021] The POS register device 50 is a register device that incorporates the functions of a POS system (functions to record and analyze data generated in real time at the time of sale (when, what, and how much was sold, etc.), and functions to database product information and correctly input and calculate amounts with simple operations), and can be configured as a computer. The POS register device 50 reads the gift certificate data by reading the QR code displayed on the user 2_40's display screen, and transmits the gift certificate code and amount information contained in the gift certificate data to the server device 60. Furthermore, the POS register device 50 obtains the result (success or failure) of the reconciliation process performed by the server device 60.

[0022] The server device 60 receives the gift certificate code and amount information from the POS register device 50 and transmits it to user 1_10. The server device 60 also requests the payment system 30 to perform payment processing using the virtual credit number (VCN: amount charged) received from user 1_10. Furthermore, the server device 60 receives a payment result notification (success or failure) from the payment system 30, performs reconciliation processing, and notifies the POS device 50 of the result of the reconciliation processing.

[0023] <Example of User 1_10's Outline Configuration> Figure 2 shows a schematic example of the hardware and software configuration of user 1's computer 10.

[0024] User 1_10 includes a processor 11 such as a CPU (Central Processor Unit), MPU (Micro Processor Unit), and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a storage device 12 (ROM, RAM, PROM, etc.), a communication device 13, an input device 14, and an output device 15.

[0025] The processor 11 reads a processing program from the storage device 12 and expands it into internal memory (not shown), thereby generating a virtual credit number (VCN) acquisition processing unit 111 and a gift certificate data generation processing unit 112. The virtual credit number (VCN) acquisition processing unit 111 instructs (requests) the VCN generation and management system 20 to generate a virtual credit number and executes the process of acquiring the generated virtual credit number. The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 generates a gift certificate code and combines it with amount information to generate gift certificate data. The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 also converts the gift certificate data into a QR code and executes the process of sending it to user 2_40 using the communication device 13. Furthermore, the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 receives the gift certificate code and amount information contained in the used (used by user 2) gift certificate data from the server device 60. Furthermore, the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 obtains a virtual credit number (VCN) corresponding to the gift certificate code from the storage device 12, charges the corresponding amount to the virtual credit number (VCN), and sends (returns) it to the server device 60.

[0026] The memory device 12 is a device that stores and holds data such as processing programs, various parameters, and processing results. For example, it manages a desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) obtained from the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 by associating them with gift certificate codes.

[0027] The communication device 13 communicates with various devices and computers connected to the network, etc., under the control of the processor 11.

[0028] The input device 14 consists of a keyboard, touch panel, mouse, microphone, etc., and is a device used by user 1 (giver) to input instructions and information.

[0029] The output device 15 consists of a display device, printer, speaker, etc., and is a device used to output (display) processing results and acquired information.

[0030] <Schematic Configuration Example of Virtual Credit Number (VCN) Generation and Management System 20> FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the hardware and software of a virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20.

[0031] The virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 includes a processor 21 such as a CPU (Central Processor Unit), MPU (Micro Processor Unit), and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a storage device (ROM, RAM, PROM, etc.) 22, a communication device 23, an input device 24, and an output device 25.

[0032] The processor 21 reads a processing program from the storage device 22 and expands it in an internal memory (not shown), thereby generating a virtual credit number (VCN) generation processing unit 211 and a virtual credit number (VCN) management unit 212. The virtual credit number (VCN) generation processing unit 211 obtains a virtual credit number generation instruction (request) from the user 1_10 via the communication device 23 and requests the settlement system 30 to generate a virtual credit number. When the virtual credit number (VCN) management unit 212 receives a desired number of virtual credit numbers from the settlement system 30, it manages each virtual credit number in the storage device 22 in association with the information of the requester (user 1_10). The user 1 (sender) can also instruct (request) the generation of one virtual credit number to give a gift certificate to a specific individual, or can instruct (request) the generation of a plurality of virtual credit numbers to distribute a plurality of gift certificates to a plurality of consumers (recipients) for company promotions and the like.

[0033] The storage device 22 stores and holds a processing program, various parameters, and data of each processing result.

[0034] The communication device 23 communicates with each device and computer connected to a network or the like under the control of the processor 11.

[0035] The input device 24 consists of a keyboard, touch panel, mouse, microphone, etc., and is a device used by the operator of the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 to input instructions and information.

[0036] The output device 15 consists of a display device, printer, speaker, etc., and is a device used to output (display) processing results and acquired information.

[0037] <Example of User 2_40's Configuration> Figure 4 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the hardware and software of user 2's computer 40.

[0038] User 2_40 includes a processor 41 such as a CPU (Central Processor Unit), MPU (Micro Processor Unit), and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a storage device (ROM, RAM, PROM, etc.) 42, a communication device 43, an input device 44, and an output device 45.

[0039] The processor 41 generates the gift certificate display processing unit 411 by reading a processing program from the storage device 42 and expanding it into internal memory (not shown). When the gift certificate display processing unit 411 receives a QR code containing gift certificate data from user 1_10, it performs the process of displaying the QR code.

[0040] The memory device 42 stores and holds data for processing programs, various parameters, and each processing result.

[0041] The communication device 43 communicates with various devices and computers connected to the network, etc., under the control of the processor 11.

[0042] The input device 44 is composed of a keyboard, a touch panel, a mouse, a microphone, etc., and is a device used by the user 1 (the giver) to input instructions and information.

[0043] The output device 45 is composed of a display device, a printer, a speaker, etc., and is a device used to output (display) processing results and acquired information.

[0044] <Schematic configuration example of the POS register device 50> FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the hardware and software of the POS register device 50.

[0045] The POS register device 50 includes a processor 51 such as a CPU (Central Processor Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a storage device (ROM, RAM, PROM, etc.) 52, a communication device 53, an input device 54, and an output device 55.

[0046] The processor 51 reads a processing program from the storage device 52 and expands it into an internal memory (not shown), thereby generating a registration processing unit 511, a settlement processing unit 512, and an output control unit 513.

[0047] The storage device 52 stores and holds a processing program, various parameters, and data of each processing result.

[0048] The registration processing unit 511 generated within the processor 51 generally registers items brought to the register by the customer as items to be settled. For items registered as items to be settled, the information is reflected on the product registration screen displayed by the display control unit 512, which will be described later. The registration unit 511 performs this product registration process and stores settlement information for each transaction in the storage device 52. The settlement information includes information on each item registered as an item to be settled and is used when performing the settlement process. For example, the settlement information includes the gift certificate code, selling price information, sales quantity, discount information, etc., for each item registered as an item to be settled. The gift certificate code is identification data formed from letters, numbers, symbols, etc., predetermined in order to identify each item. For example, the registration unit 511 obtains the gift certificate code for each item based on operations on the product registration screen via the touch panel unit or scanning operations using a scanner device or handheld scanner on the product identification label attached to the item. The registration unit 511 retrieves product information (product name, selling price, etc.) for each product from the product information table (not shown) based on the gift certificate code obtained in this manner.

[0049] Furthermore, the registration processing unit 511 extracts the gift certificate code and amount information from the gift certificate data obtained by reading the QR code displayed on the screen for user 2_40, and transmits it to the server device 60. In addition, the registration processing unit 511 obtains the result (success or failure) of the reconciliation process performed by the server device 60.

[0050] When the settlement processing unit 512 detects a predetermined user operation while the product registration screen is displayed, it performs the settlement process for the item registered by the registration unit 511 and completes the transaction. This settlement process can be the same as the settlement process of a typical POS register terminal that handles everything from product registration to settlement completion in one unit.

[0051] Furthermore, the display control unit 513 outputs (displays) information about the products registered as settlement targets by the registration unit 511 to the output device 54. Specifically, the display control unit 513 obtains information about the products registered as settlement targets for the target transaction (the transaction currently being registered) from the registration processing unit 511 or the storage device 52, and displays a screen (referred to as the product registration screen) that presents the obtained information. The display control unit 513 also executes processing to display the settlement processing results on the display screen.

[0052] The communication device 53 communicates with various devices and computers connected to the network, etc., under the control of the processor 51.

[0053] The input device 54 consists of a keyboard, touch panel, mouse, scanner, microphone, etc., and is a device used by user 1 (giver) to input instructions and information.

[0054] The output device 55 consists of a display device, printer, speaker, etc., and is used to output (display) processing results and acquired information.

[0055] <Example of a general configuration of server device 60> Figure 6 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the hardware and software of the server device 60.

[0056] The server device 60 includes a processor 61 such as a CPU (Central Processor Unit), MPU (Micro Processor Unit), and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a storage device (ROM, RAM, PROM, etc.) 62, a communication device 63, an input device 64, and an output device 65.

[0057] The processor 61 reads a processing program from the storage device 62 and expands it into internal memory (not shown), thereby generating a settlement processing unit 611, a reconciliation processing unit 612, and a gift certificate data management unit 613. The gift certificate data management unit 613 obtains the gift certificate code and amount information contained in the gift certificate data used by user 2 from the POS register device 50 and transmits it to user 1_10. The gift certificate data management unit 613 then receives a virtual credit number (VCN) from user 1_10 that corresponds to the gift certificate code of the used gift certificate data and is charged with the above amount. The settlement processing unit 611 requests the settlement system 30 to perform settlement processing using the virtual credit number (VCN) charged with the amount of the used gift certificate data via the communication device 63. The reconciliation processing unit 612 receives the settlement result from the settlement system 30, and if the settlement is successful, executes the reconciliation process and transmits the result of the reconciliation process to the POS register device 50 via the communication device 63. If the settlement is unsuccessful, the reconciliation process is not executed.

[0058] The storage device 62 stores and holds data for processing programs, various parameters, and each processing result.

[0059] The communication device 63 communicates with various devices and computers connected to the network, etc., under the control of the processor 11.

[0060] The input device 64 consists of a keyboard, touch panel, mouse, microphone, etc., and is used by the operator of the server device 60 to input instructions and information.

[0061] The output device 65 consists of a display device, printer, speaker, etc., and is used to output (display) processing results and acquired information.

[0062] <Processing and processing sequence in each device: When using a new VCN> Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the processing and processing sequence of each device in the digital gift system 1 according to this embodiment when a new virtual credit number (VCN) is used (when the VCN is not reused).

[0063] (i) Sequence SQ_A1 The virtual credit number acquisition processing unit 111 of user 1_10 operates the communication device 13 in response to the instructions entered by user 1 (sender) and sends a virtual credit number (VCN) generation instruction (request) to the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system.

[0064] (ii) Sequence SQ_A2 The virtual credit number (VCN) generation processing unit 211 of the virtual credit number generation and management system 20 operates the communication device 23 in response to the virtual credit number (VCN) generation instruction (request) received from user 1_10 and requests the payment system 30 to issue the number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) desired by user 1.

[0065] (iii) Sequence SQ_A3 The payment system 30, in response to a request for virtual credit number (VCN) issuance received from the virtual credit number generation and management system 20, issues the desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) and transmits them to the virtual credit number generation and management system 20.

[0066] (iv) Sequence SQ4_A4 The virtual credit number (VCN) management unit 212 of the virtual credit number generation and management system 20 stores the desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) received from the payment system 30 in the storage device 22 and manages them in association with the information of user 1 (sender) (for example, user 1's identification information). The virtual credit number (VCN) management unit 212 also sends (returns) the desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) received from the payment system 30 to user 1_10.

[0067] The virtual credit number (VCN) acquisition processing unit 111 for user 1_10 stores the virtual credit number (VCN) acquired from the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 in the storage device 12. The virtual credit number (VCN) is managed in the storage device 12 in association with each gift certificate code generated in sequence SQ_A5.

[0068] (v) Sequence SQ_A5 The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 of user 1_10 generates a gift certificate code to identify the gift certificate (gift certificate data) in order to generate gift certificate data to be distributed to user 2 (recipient). The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 then converts the gift certificate code and the amount of the gift certificate into a QR code (gift certificate data) and transmits it to user 2_40 via the communication device 13 (in the case of push notifications). In this case, the gift certificate data contains only the gift certificate code and simple amount information, and unlike a regular gift certificate, it is not a monetary voucher (the gift certificate data itself does not embody monetary value).

[0069] Alternatively, user 2_40 may send a request to user 1_10 to retrieve gift certificate data, and in response, user 1_10 may retrieve the gift certificate data generated by the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 (pull type).

[0070] The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 stores each generated gift certificate code in the storage device 112, linking it to the virtual credit number (VCN) mentioned above (if there are multiple recipient users 2_40, the code may be further associated with the identification information of each user 2_40).

[0071] (vi) Presenting gift certificates: See dotted arrow User 2 (the recipient) actually goes to the store and presents a QR code containing the gift certificate data at the counter. The registration processing unit 511 of the POS register device 50 then scans the QR code and retrieves the gift certificate data contained within it. User 2 may also use the QR code for online shopping without actually going to the store.

[0072] (vii) Sequence SQ_A6 The registration processing unit 511 of the POS register device 50 extracts the gift certificate code and amount information contained in the gift certificate data obtained by reading the QR code, and transmits it to the server device 60.

[0073] (viii) Sequence SQ_A7 The gift certificate data management unit 613 of the server device 60 transmits the gift certificate code and amount information received from the POS register device 50 to user 1_10 via the communication device 63.

[0074] (ix) Sequence SQ_A8 The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 of user 1_10 obtains a virtual credit number (VCN) corresponding to the gift certificate code received from the server device 60 from the storage device 12. Then, the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 charges the amount corresponding to the obtained gift certificate code to the virtual credit number (VCN) and sends (returns) the virtual credit number (VCN) to the server device 60.

[0075] (x) Sequence SQ_A9 The settlement processing unit 611 of the server device 60 requests the settlement system 30 to process the payment using the virtual credit number (VCN) that has been received from user 1_10 and which is charged with the amount of the gift certificate used by user 2, via the communication device 63.

[0076] (xii) Sequence SQ_A10 The payment system 30 uses the virtual credit number (VCN) obtained from the server device 60 to process the payment for the above amount and notifies the server device 60 of the payment result (whether the payment was successful or not).

[0077] (xiii) Sequence SQ_A11 The reconciliation processing unit 612 of the server device 60 receives the payment result from the payment system 30, and if the payment is successful, it executes the reconciliation process. The reconciliation processing unit 612 then transmits the result of the reconciliation process (if the payment is successful, the reconciliation process is also successful) to the POS register device 50 via the communication device 63. If the POS register device 50 receives notification from the server device 60 that the reconciliation process was unsuccessful (if the payment process was unsuccessful), it may display on its screen that the gift certificate presented by user 2 (recipient) is invalid. In this case, the store clerk can verbally inform user 2 (recipient) that the gift certificate is invalid (in the case of online shopping, the display screen for user 2_40 may also display an invalid gift certificate).

[0078] <Processing and processing sequence in each device: When reusing VCN> Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the processing and processing sequence of each device in the digital gift system 1 according to this embodiment when a virtual credit number (VCN) is reused. The number of digits for a virtual credit number (VCN) is predetermined, and the number of issued virtual credit numbers (VCNs) is finite. Therefore, when the upper limit of the number of issued virtual credit numbers (VCNs) is reached, the issued virtual credit numbers (VCNs) can be reused by combining them with other identification information (in this embodiment, a gift certificate code). Furthermore, even if user 1 has used up all the virtual credit numbers (VCNs) issued for user 1, the used virtual credit numbers (VCNs) can be reused by combining them with another gift certificate code. The processing sequence when a virtual credit number (VCN) is reused will be described below.

[0079] (i) Sequence SQ_B1 The virtual credit number acquisition processing unit 111 of user 1_10 operates the communication device 13 in response to the instructions entered by user 1 (sender) and sends a virtual credit number (VCN) generation instruction (request) to the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system.

[0080] (ii) Sequence SQ_B2 The virtual credit number (VCN) generation processing unit 211 of the virtual credit number generation and management system 20 operates the communication device 23 in response to the virtual credit number (VCN) generation instruction (request) received from user 1_10 and requests the payment system 30 to issue the number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) desired by user 1.

[0081] (iii) Sequence SQ_B3 The payment system 30, in response to a request for virtual credit number (VCN) issuance received from the virtual credit number generation and management system 20, issues the desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) and transmits them to the virtual credit number generation and management system 20.

[0082] (iv) Sequence SQ4_B4 The virtual credit number (VCN) management unit 212 of the virtual credit number generation and management system 20 stores the desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) received from the payment system 30 in the storage device 22 and manages them in association with the information of user 1 (sender) (for example, user 1's identification information). The virtual credit number (VCN) management unit 212 also sends (returns) the desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) received from the payment system 30 to user 1_10.

[0083] The virtual credit number (VCN) acquisition processing unit 111 for user 1_10 stores the virtual credit number (VCN) acquired from the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 in the storage device 12. The virtual credit number (VCN) is managed in user 1_10's storage device 12 in association with each gift certificate code generated in sequence SQ_B5.

[0084] (v) Sequence SQ_B5 The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 of user 1_10 generates a gift certificate code to identify the gift certificate (gift certificate data) in order to generate gift certificate data to be distributed to user 2 (recipient). The gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 then converts the gift certificate code and the amount of the gift certificate into a QR code (gift certificate data) and transmits it to user 2_40 via the communication device 13 (in the case of push notifications). In this case, the gift certificate data contains only the gift certificate code and simple amount information, and unlike a regular gift certificate, it is not a monetary voucher (the gift certificate data itself does not embody monetary value).

[0085] Alternatively, user 2_40 may send a request to user 1_10 to retrieve gift certificate data, and in response, user 1_10 may retrieve the gift certificate data generated by the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 (pull type).

[0086] Furthermore, if the number of issued gift certificate codes reaches the upper limit of the number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) managed by the storage device 12, user 1_10 will no longer be able to manage the gift certificate codes in association with virtual credit numbers (VCNs). In this case, the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 may manage the gift certificate codes in the storage device 12 without associating them with virtual credit numbers (VCNs), on the premise that it will reuse virtual credit numbers (VCNs) that have already been issued for user 1.

[0087] (vi) Presenting gift certificates: See dotted arrow User 2 (the recipient) actually goes to the store and presents a QR code containing the gift certificate data at the counter. The registration processing unit 511 of the POS register device 50 then scans the QR code and retrieves the gift certificate data contained within it. User 2 may also use the QR code for online shopping without actually going to the store.

[0088] (vii) Sequence SQ_B6 The registration processing unit 511 of the POS register device 50 extracts the gift certificate code and amount information contained in the gift certificate data obtained by reading the QR code, and transmits it to the server device 60 via the communication device 53.

[0089] (viii) Sequence SQ_B7 The gift certificate data management unit 613 of the server device 60 transmits the gift certificate code and amount information received from the POS register device 50 to user 1_10 via the communication device 63.

[0090] (ix) Sequence SQ_B8 When reusing a virtual credit number (VCN), since the virtual credit number (VCN) corresponding to the gift certificate code received from the server device 60 is not stored in the storage device 12, the virtual credit number (VCN) acquisition processing unit 111 of user 1_10 requests the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 to send the issued virtual credit number (VCN) (VCN acquisition request).

[0091] (x) Sequence SQ_B9 In response to the above VCN acquisition request, the virtual credit number (VCN) management unit 212 of the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 acquires used virtual credit numbers (VCNs) from the storage device 22 (acquires VCNs pooled in the storage device 22) and transmits (returns) them to user 1_10 via the communication device 23.

[0092] (xi) Sequence SQ_B10 The virtual credit number (VCN) acquisition processing unit 111 for user 1_10 stores used virtual credit numbers (VCNs) acquired from the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 in the storage device 12 and manages them by associating (linking) them with gift certificate codes.

[0093] Furthermore, the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 of user 1_10 charges the used virtual credit number (VCN) with the amount corresponding to the gift certificate code received from the server device 60, and sends (returns) the virtual credit number (VCN) to the server device 60.

[0094] (xii) Sequence SQ_B11 The settlement processing unit 611 of the server device 60 requests the settlement system 30 to process the payment using a virtual credit number (VCN: reuse VCN) that has been received from user 1_10 and is charged with the amount of the gift certificate used by user 2, via the communication device 63.

[0095] (xiii) Sequence SQ_B12 The payment system 30 uses the virtual credit number (VCN: reuse VCN) obtained from the server device 60 to process the payment for the above amount and notifies the server device 60 of the payment result (whether the payment was successful or not).

[0096] (xiiii) Sequence SQ_B13 The reconciliation processing unit 612 of the server device 60 receives the payment result from the payment system 30, and if the payment is successful, it executes the reconciliation process. The reconciliation processing unit 612 then transmits the result of the reconciliation process (if the payment is successful, the reconciliation process is also successful) to the POS register device 50 via the communication device 63. If the POS register device 50 receives notification from the server device 60 that the reconciliation process was unsuccessful (if the payment process was unsuccessful), it may display on its screen that the gift certificate presented by user 2 (recipient) is invalid. In this case, the store clerk can verbally inform user 2 (recipient) that the gift certificate is invalid (in the case of online shopping, the display screen for user 2_40 may also display an invalid gift certificate).

[0097] <Variation> The processing sequences in Figures 7 and 8 show that in sequences SQ_A4 and B4, all generated virtual credit numbers (VCNs) are temporarily obtained from the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 and managed by the storage device 12, but the system is not limited to this configuration. For example, when using a new virtual credit number (VCN) or reusing a used virtual credit number (VCN), the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20 does not immediately send the virtual credit numbers (VCNs) obtained from the settlement system 30 to user 1_10, but instead manages (pools) all virtual credit numbers (VCNs) in the storage device 22 and, in response to a request from user 1_10, sends the desired number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) to user 1_10. In other words, if the number of requests from user 1 is less than the number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) pooled in the virtual credit number (VCN) generation and management system 20, new (unused) virtual credit numbers (VCNs) can be sent to user 1_10. If the number of requests from user 1 is greater than the number of virtual credit numbers (VCNs) in the pool, new + used virtual credit numbers (VCNs) will be sent to user 1_10.

[0098] Furthermore, the gift certificate data generation processing unit 112 of user 1_10 may manage the virtual credit number (VCN: new only (not reused), new + used (partially reused), or used only (fully reused)) obtained from the payment system 30 in association with the gift certificate code in the storage device 12.

[0099] By doing so, the processing can be standardized whether a virtual credit number (VCN) is being used for the first time or reused (eliminating the need to separate the processes as shown in Figures 7 and 8), simplifying the system configuration and improving the efficiency of resource utilization.

[0100] <Other> The functions of this embodiment can also be realized by software program code. In this case, a storage medium containing the program code is provided to a system or device, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of that system or device reads the program code stored on the storage medium. In this case, the program code read from the storage medium itself realizes the functions of the embodiment described above, and the program code itself and the storage medium that stores it constitute the present disclosure. Examples of storage media used to supply such program code include flexible disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-Rs, magnetic tapes, non-volatile memory cards, ROMs, and the like.

[0101] Furthermore, based on the instructions in the program code, the operating system (OS) running on the computer may perform some or all of the actual processing, thereby realizing the functions of the embodiment described above. In addition, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to the computer's memory, the computer's CPU may perform some or all of the actual processing based on the instructions in the program code, thereby realizing the functions of the embodiment described above.

[0102] Furthermore, the program code for the software that implements the embodiments and the functions of each embodiment may be distributed via a network and stored in a storage means such as a hard disk or memory of the system or device, or in a storage medium such as a CD-RW or CD-R, so that when in use the system or device's computer (or CPU or MPU) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage means or storage medium.

[0103] The processes and technologies described herein are not inherently related to any specific device and can be implemented by combining the components. Various types of general-purpose devices can also be added. Dedicated devices may be constructed to perform the functions of this embodiment and each example. Furthermore, various functions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in this embodiment and each example. For example, some components may be removed from all the components shown in the embodiment and each example, or components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

[0104] This disclosure includes specific examples, which are for illustrative purposes (to understand the technology of this disclosure) and not for limitation in any respect. A person with ordinary skill in the art will understand that there are many combinations of hardware, software, and firmware suitable for implementing the technology of this disclosure. For example, the described software can be implemented in a wide range of programming or scripting languages, such as assembler, C / C++, Perl, Shell, PHP, and Java®.

[0105] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the control lines and information lines shown are those deemed necessary for illustrative purposes, and not all control lines and information lines are necessarily shown in the actual product. All components may be interconnected.

[0106] In addition, any person with ordinary skill in the art can see from the consideration of these embodiments and examples that other implementations of this disclosure may be apparent. The specification and examples are typical, and the scope and spirit of the art of this disclosure are shown in the subsequent claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 1. Digital Gift System 10. User 1 (giver)'s computer 20 Virtual Credit Number (VCN) Generation and Management System 30 Payment Systems 40. User 2's (recipient's) computer 50 POS register devices 60 Server Devices

Claims

1. A server device that processes post-use payment voucher data distributed from the giver to the recipient and used by the recipient, A storage device that holds a program for processing the used payment voucher data, The system includes a processor that reads the program from the storage device and processes the used payment voucher data, The aforementioned used payment voucher data does not itself contain monetary value as a security, and includes an identification code that identifies the used payment voucher data and information about a mere amount that the recipient can use. The aforementioned processor, A process of receiving the identification code and amount information contained in the used payment voucher data from a POS register device that has read the used payment voucher data, A process of transmitting the aforementioned identification code and the aforementioned amount information to the giver's computer, The process of obtaining a virtual credit number from the giver's computer that is charged with a monetary value equivalent to the amount information, A process that transmits the virtual credit number to the payment system and requests the execution of a payment process for the amount using the virtual credit number, A process for receiving the execution result of the aforementioned settlement process from the settlement system, A server device that performs the following actions.

2. In claim 1, If the settlement process is successful, the processor further executes a reconciliation process and a server device that notifies the POS register device that the reconciliation process was successful.

3. A first computer, which is the computer of the giver of the used payment voucher data, distributes the used payment voucher data to the recipient as a gift, The second computer, which is the recipient computer, A POS register device reads the used payment voucher data used by the recipient and outputs the identification code and amount information contained in the used payment voucher data. A server device that obtains and processes the identification code and amount information contained in the used post-payment voucher data from the POS register device, A payment system that performs payment processing using virtual credit numbers, The system includes a virtual credit number generation and management system that, in response to a request from the first computer to obtain a virtual credit number, requests the payment system to issue a desired number of virtual credit numbers, obtains the desired number of credit numbers, and transmits them to the first computer. The aforementioned used payment voucher data does not itself contain monetary value as a security. The server device is A process of transmitting the identification code and the amount information contained in the used post-payment voucher data to the first computer, A process of obtaining a virtual credit number from the first computer to which a monetary value equivalent to the amount information has been charged, A process that transmits the virtual credit number to the payment system and requests the execution of a payment process for the amount using the credit number, A process for receiving the execution result of the aforementioned settlement process from the settlement system, Execute, The first computer is, The process includes sending the virtual credit number acquisition request to the virtual credit number generation and management system and acquiring the desired number of virtual credit numbers that have been generated, A process of generating the aforementioned identification code, associating the said identification code with the said virtual credit number obtained from the said virtual credit number generation and management system, and managing them in a storage device; A process that generates the used payment voucher data by combining the identification code and the amount information, The process of transmitting the used payment voucher data to the second computer, The process of receiving the identification code and amount information contained in the used post-payment voucher data from the server device, A process of obtaining the virtual credit number corresponding to the identification code contained in the used post-payment voucher data from the storage device, The process includes charging a monetary value equivalent to the amount information contained in the used post-payment voucher data to the virtual credit number corresponding to the identification code contained in the used post-payment voucher data, and transmitting the virtual credit number with the monetary value charged to it to the server device. A digital gifting system that performs this task.

4. In claim 3, A digital gift system comprising: the first computer associating a used virtual credit number with the identification code contained in the used post-use payment voucher data; charging the used virtual credit number with monetary value equivalent to the amount information contained in the used post-use payment voucher data; and transmitting the reused virtual credit number, on which the monetary value has been charged, to the server device.

5. In claim 3, If the payment processing by the payment system is successful, the server device further performs a reconciliation process and notifies the POS register device that the reconciliation process was successful, in a digital gift system.

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