Parking management system and program

Abstract

To allow electronic settlement by an arrangement that a user uses a communication terminal which communicates with a management server.SOLUTION: A parking lot management system for managing a parking lot 22 according to the present invention has a management server 50. The management server has a function for receiving, from a communication terminal 90 of a user, as an exit parking lot unique user information, a user unique information of the same kind of an entry parking lot unique user information as a user unique information acquired at a position of the parking lot upon entry to the parking lot, and a function for transmitting, to the communication terminal, a parking charge data for use in electronic settlement of the parking charge subject to matching, at the exit of the parking lot, the acquired entry parking lot user unique information and the received exit parking lot user unique information with each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology that enables an entire system to support electronic payment by combining a payment device having a non - electronic payment function for making payments by a non - electronic payment method excluding electronic payment with a user's communication terminal, and / or a technology that enables a user to make an electronic payment by using a communication terminal to communicate with a management server.

Background Art

[0002] In various business fields, there are various ways for users to pay fees.

[0003] Conventionally, for example, a ticket vending machine or a payment machine installed in a parking lot is designed to have (1) a payment function that enables a user to make a payment (payment (transfer of money or value) + input of information for establishing a transaction (information for giving an economic meaning to a mere physical phenomenon of transfer of money or value)) and (2) an issuing function that grants the user the right to use the parking lot as compensation for the payment and issues a ticket or a receipt as proof thereof.

[0004] As the timing for a user to pay the parking fee as the usage fee of the parking lot, there are a prepayment method in which the parking fee is paid prior to using the parking lot and a post - payment method in which the parking fee is paid after using the parking lot. Also, as methods for settling the parking fee, there are cash payment, prepaid IC card payment, and electronic payment described later. Further, as media used for settling the parking fee, there are currency (cash, prepaid IC cards, credit cards, etc. having a value equivalent to cash), substitute currency (tokens with limited uses, gift certificates, coupons, etc.), privileges (points with limited uses, coupons, discount vouchers, rebate vouchers, etc.), vouchers for use (free vouchers with limited uses, etc.).

[0005] Therefore, throughout this application, even when referring to "prepaid" or "postpaid" settlements, it is not essential that the user uses money for the settlement. Using substitute currency, using perks, using vouchers, using equivalents, or combining these methods also constitutes a "prepaid" or "postpaid" settlement.

[0006] Patent Document 1 discloses a system that uses a vending machine (capable of cash payment; equivalent to a ticket vending machine), a user's mobile terminal (an example of a communication terminal), and a server.

[0007] In that vending machine, when change is issued, electronic value, which is electronic information with the same cash value as the change, is deposited into an account on the server.

[0008] Specifically, first, the user accesses the server with their mobile device, and after successfully completing the necessary authentication, the mobile device receives a barcode from the server. Next, the user holds the mobile device displaying the barcode over the barcode reader of the vending machine.

[0009] Next, the vending machine communicates with the server, and once the barcode is authenticated as genuine, it obtains permission to sell from the server.

[0010] Subsequently, the user presses either the cash payment button or the electronic value payment button on the vending machine. If the user presses the cash payment button and selects an item, and change is generated, the user presses either the cash return button or the electronic value return button on the return selection buttons. If the user presses the electronic value return button, the electronic value equivalent to the amount of change is sent to the server.

[0011] This Patent Document 1 appears to disclose (1) that a mobile terminal utilizes the cash payment function of a vending machine, and (2) that a barcode is used to link the vending machine and the mobile terminal.

[0012] Patent Document 2 discloses a system for managing a post-payment type parking lot. In this system, the user's communication terminal communicates with an exit terminal (equivalent to a ticket vending machine) that has a cash payment function and a centralized management system (centralized management server). When exiting the parking lot, the user's communication terminal selects one of the payment methods: cash, IC card, or credit card, and notifies the exit terminal of the selection.

[0013] Patent Document 3 discloses a system in which a user's communication terminal, a ticketing machine, and a server are interconnected via the Internet. Therefore, it is possible that the ticketing machine, the user's communication terminal, and the server are connected in series, or that the ticketing machine and the user's communication terminal are connected to the server in parallel. The ticketing machine issues a ticket upon receiving information from the mobile terminal and the server, respectively. Furthermore, once the ticketing is complete, the ticketing machine sends a ticketing completion notification to the server. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-77036 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-198096 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-27441 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0015] Nowadays, many potential users of parking lots have communication devices (e.g., mobile devices), and these devices have communication capabilities that enable both short-range and long-range communication.

[0016] Noting that communication terminals possess such advanced communication capabilities, the inventors proposed adding the following to ticket vending machines installed in parking lots: (1) a transmission function that transmits unique identification information for the ticket vending machine (for example, a parking lot ID that identifies the parking lot where the ticket vending machine is installed), and (2) a communication function that enables short-range communication with a user's communication terminal capable of long-range communication with the management server (resulting in a link with the management server via the communication terminal) or direct long-range communication with the management server.

[0017] Furthermore, the inventors realized that if the system were designed so that users use a communication terminal but not a ticket vending machine when making electronic payments (also known as "smartphone payments," which include credit card payments), while using a ticket vending machine but not a communication terminal when making cash payments or prepaid IC card payments (also simply known as "card payments"), the management server would not be able to collect information from the ticket vending machine when cash payments or prepaid IC card payments are made. This would be inconvenient for the management server, which collects information from multiple parking lots and centrally manages their operating status and other related information.

[0018] In other words, the inventors realized that by designing the system so that users use a communication terminal and communicate with a management server, regardless of the payment method, they could take advantage of the characteristics of the communication terminal, namely, that the management server can collect parking-related information from users regardless of their location.

[0019] Alternatively, the ticket vending machine could be designed to have both short-range communication capabilities with a communication terminal and long-range communication capabilities with a management server. However, this might create a new problem: increased manufacturing and operating costs for the ticket vending machine.

[0020] Therefore, the present inventor divided the settlement function Z into (a) a payment function X that enables a user to pay a fee, and (b) an information input function Y that enables a user to input information necessary to conclude a transaction related to parking by the payment.

[0021] Furthermore, while the present inventor still realizes the payment function X by a ticket vending machine, the information input function Y is realized by a communication terminal of a user that can communicate with a management server over a long distance instead of the ticket vending machine (the purpose of inputting information to the ticket vending machine is, for example, to associate the ticket vending machine with the communication terminal), and thereby proposed to emphasize the character of the ticket vending machine as a fee payment machine (for example, a cash payment machine, a card reader of a prepaid IC card), that is, the character that cash settlement and card settlement are possible by using the ticket vending machine.

[0022] Furthermore, in order for the communication terminal to know from the ticket vending machine that the settlement by the user has been completed while the present inventor emphasizes the character of the ticket vending machine as a fee payment machine, the present inventor proposed that when the settlement by the user with respect to the ticket vending machine ends, the ticket vending machine transmits a payment completion signal to the communication terminal of the user.

[0023] However, none of Patent Documents 1-3 disclose the point that the ticket vending machine transmits a payment completion signal to the communication terminal of the user.

[0024] Furthermore, when the present inventor distributes different parts (for example, the aforementioned X) and another part (for example, the aforementioned Y) of the conventional settlement function Z of the ticket vending machine (for example, those that were integrally inseparable in terms of software configuration in the same device) to the ticket vending machine and the communication terminal that are physically independent, the present inventor noticed that it is necessary to associate different user actions that occur at different locations by the same user, that is, the user action of payment at the ticket vending machine and the user action of information input at the communication terminal, in order to complement the insulation (dispersibility) between the payment at the ticket vending machine and the information input at the communication terminal.

[0025] Therefore, as a solution, the present inventor proposed, for example, on the premise of performing two-way communication between a ticket vending machine and a user's communication terminal, (1) limiting the communication method between the ticket vending machine and the communication terminal to short-range communication (forcing the user operating the communication terminal to be near the ticket vending machine), (2) sharing the same unique information about the user between the ticket vending machine and the communication terminal, and (3) preventing another communication from being established between the communication terminal of another user and the ticket vending machine after a communication is established between the communication terminal of one user and the ticket vending machine, in order to ensure the uniqueness of the communication for the ticket vending machine.

[0026] In short, the present inventor noticed that the ticket vending machine has the inherent characteristic of enabling cash settlement and card settlement, while the user's communication terminal has the inherent characteristic of being able to provide information to the management server regardless of its location. Making use of these respective characteristics and using the ticket vending machine and the user's communication terminal together is desirable for enabling both the diversification of the settlement methods by the user and the centralized management of multiple parking lots by the management server.

[0027] Based on such circumstances, a first aspect of the present invention aims to provide a parking lot management system that makes it easy to combine the use of a ticket vending machine and a user's communication terminal while making use of their respective characteristics, thereby enabling both the diversification of the settlement methods by the user and the centralized management of multiple parking lots by the management server.

[0028] Furthermore, in order to manage a post-payment parking lot, conventionally, at the parking lot, there are installed an entrance / exit control device (for example, a gate device that appropriately rises and falls, a vehicle movement blocker that appropriately rises and falls, etc.) for controlling the entry and exit of vehicles to the parking lot, and a control device that can communicate with the entrance / exit control device and has at least a control function for controlling the entrance / exit control device and a settlement function for enabling the settlement of parking fees by the user (for example, a cashier machine). Further, outside the parking lot, a management server that can communicate with the control device and can communicate with the entrance / exit control device via the control device is installed.

[0029] When a payment machine accepts cash or prepaid IC card payments but not electronic payments, the inventors proposed a method to enable electronic payments while substantially using the same payment machine (at least the same hardware configuration). This method does not require the user's communication terminal to be used when entering the parking lot, but requires the user's communication terminal to be used when exiting the parking lot for both the exit procedure and the payment of parking fees.

[0030] In other words, the inventor proposed a technical concept in which a payment device equipped with a non-electronic payment function that settles transactions using non-electronic payment methods other than electronic payment can be made compatible with electronic payment as a whole system when combined with a user's communication terminal.

[0031] Against this backdrop, the present invention aims to enable a system using a payment device equipped with a non-electronic payment function that settles payments using non-electronic payment methods other than electronic payment, to support electronic payment while utilizing the payment device, by using the user's communication terminal, and / or to enable the user to perform electronic payment by using the communication terminal to communicate with a management server. [Means for solving the problem]

[0032] To solve this problem, according to the first aspect of the present invention, a parking management system for managing a parking lot, The aforementioned parking lot has multiple parking spaces, and further, each parking space has multiple location information display means that display multiple different location information, The parking management system in question is: Including the management server, The management server is User's From any of the multiple parking locations When leaving the depot, When the user's communication terminal is applied to the location information presentation means corresponding to any of the parking locations, The user's Any parking location When entering the parking lot acquired A function to receive user-specific information of the same type as user-specific information received at the time of receiving goods, as user-specific information received at the time of dispatch, from the user's communication terminal, The function includes transmitting parking fee data for electronic payment of parking fees to the communication terminal, provided that the user-specific information acquired at the time of entry and the user-specific information received at the time of exit match. A parking management system including this will be provided.

[0033] Furthermore, according to a second aspect of the present invention, a program executed by a computer of a communication terminal of a parking lot user managed by a parking lot management system including a management server, The aforementioned parking lot has multiple parking spaces, and further, each parking space has multiple location information display means that display multiple different location information, The management server of the user To one of several parking spaces Upon arrival at the parking lot, User Unique information is acquired as user-specific information upon receiving the goods. The aforementioned communication terminal is User's any Parking position When leaving the depot, When the aforementioned communication terminal is applied to the location information presentation means corresponding to any of the aforementioned parking locations, A transmission function that transmits user-specific information of the same type as the acquired user-specific information at the time of receiving to the management server as user-specific information at the time of dispatch, Upon exiting the parking lot, a receiving function receives parking fee data from the management server for electronic payment of parking fees, provided that the acquired user-specific information at the time of entry and the transmitted user-specific information at the time of exit match. Includes, A program is provided that is executed by the computer to realize the transmission function and the reception function.

[0034] The present invention provides the following embodiments. Each embodiment is divided into sections, each section numbered, and the numbers of other sections are referenced as necessary. This is to facilitate understanding of some of the technical features and combinations thereof that the present invention may employ, and it should not be interpreted that the technical features and combinations thereof that the present invention may employ are limited to the embodiments below. In other words, it should be interpreted that there is no preclude from appropriately extracting and adopting technical features described in this specification that are not described in the embodiments below as technical features of the present invention.

[0035] Furthermore, the fact that each section is written in a format that references the numbering of other sections does not necessarily mean that it prevents the technical features described in each section from being separated and made independent from those described in other sections. Rather, it should be interpreted that it is possible to make the technical features described in each section independent as appropriate according to their nature.

[0036] (1) A parking management system configured such that a management server centrally manages multiple prepaid parking lots, and the user uses a communication terminal to allow the management server to rent out any of the parking lots selected by the user, A ticket vending machine installed in the aforementioned parking lot has a payment function that allows users to pay with cash or a prepaid card, a ticket issuing function, and a communication function. The aforementioned communication terminal and a management server capable of communicating with it Includes, The ticket vending machine communicates under either a first communication environment in which it can communicate with the communication terminal but cannot communicate with the management server, although information from the ticket vending machine can be transmitted to the management server via the communication terminal, or a second communication environment in which it can communicate with the management server but cannot communicate with the communication terminal. Furthermore, when a user pays the prepaid fee to the ticket vending machine using the communication terminal, the vending machine issues a ticket to the user and transmits a payment completion signal to the communication terminal or the management server. A parking management system in which, upon receiving the payment completion signal from the ticket vending machine, the communication terminal or the management server grants the user the right to use the parking lot.

[0037] (2) The ticket vending machine communicates under the first communication environment, When the ticket vending machine receives the payment, it transmits the payment completion signal to the communication terminal. When the communication terminal receives the payment completion signal from the ticket vending machine, it transmits a procedure completion signal to the management server. The parking management system according to paragraph (1), wherein when the management server receives the procedure completion signal from the communication terminal, it grants the user the right to use the parking lot.

[0038] (3) The ticket vending machine transmits first unique information specific to the user (for example, location information and / or user ID for identifying the location of an individual parking space) to the communication terminal, The aforementioned communication terminal receives second unique information specific to the user (for example, location information and / or user ID to identify the location of an individual parking space) from the user. When all of the following conditions are met, including the condition that a match is made between the first unique information received from the ticket vending machine and the second unique information input to the communication terminal (for example, linking the ticket vending machine and the communication terminal), and the condition that the payment completion signal has been received from the ticket vending machine, the communication terminal transmits the procedure completion signal to the management server. The parking management system described in paragraph (2), wherein when the management server receives the procedure completion signal from the communication terminal, it grants the user the right to use the parking lot.

[0039] (4) The communication terminal transmits a signal to the ticket vending machine when the user wishes to make the payment to the ticket vending machine. The parking management system described in paragraph (2), wherein when the ticket vending machine receives a signal from the communication terminal, it prohibits the reception of signals from any other communication terminals, thereby establishing exclusive communication between the ticket vending machine and the communication terminal.

[0040] (5) The ticket vending machine communicates under the second communication environment, When the ticket vending machine receives the payment, it sends a payment completion signal to the management server. The ticket vending machine transmits first unique information specific to the user (for example, location information and / or user ID for identifying the location of an individual parking space) to the management server. The communication terminal transmits second unique information specific to the user (for example, location information and / or user ID for identifying the location of an individual parking space) to the management server. The parking management system described in paragraph (1), wherein the management server grants the user the right to use the parking lot when all of several conditions are met, including the condition that a match is made between the first unique information received from the ticket vending machine and the second unique information received from the communication terminal (for example, linking the ticket vending machine and the communication terminal) and the condition that the payment completion signal is received from the ticket vending machine.

[0041] (6) The parking management system according to paragraph (5), wherein when all of a plurality of conditions are met, including the condition that a match is made between the first unique information received from the ticket vending machine and the second unique information received from the communication terminal, and the condition that the payment completion signal is received from the ticket vending machine, the management server grants the user the right to use the parking lot and transmits a procedure completion signal to at least the communication terminal of the ticket vending machine and the communication terminal.

[0042] (7) A program to cause a computer to function as a communication terminal as described in any of paragraphs (1) through (6).

[0043] In this application, the term “program” can be interpreted to mean, for example, a combination of instructions executed by a computer to perform its function, or it can be interpreted to include, but not limited to, not only such combination of instructions, but also files and data processed in accordance with each instruction.

[0044] Furthermore, this program may achieve its intended purpose by being executed on a computer alone, or by being executed on a computer together with other programs, but is not limited to these two methods. In the latter case, the program relating to this section may be primarily data-based, but is not limited to that.

[0045] (8) A program to cause a computer to function as a management server as described in any of paragraphs (1) through (6).

[0046] (9) A recording medium on which the program described in item (7) or (8) is recorded in a computer-readable format.

[0047] In this application, the term "recording medium" can refer to various types of recording media, including, but is not limited to, magnetic recording media such as flexible disks, optical recording media such as CDs and CD-ROMs, magneto-optical recording media such as MOs, and unremovable storage such as ROMs.

[0048] (10) A parking management system for managing post-payment parking lots, A payment machine installed in the aforementioned parking lot, which has a payment function that allows users to pay parking fees by payment methods other than electronic payment when exiting the parking lot, A management server is installed outside the aforementioned parking lot and communicates with the aforementioned payment machine, A user's communication terminal that is capable of communicating with the management server. Includes, The aforementioned communication terminal sends a settlement request to the management server when the goods are dispatched. The management server sends a request to the payment machine to calculate the parking fee. The payment machine calculates the parking fee and transmits the parking fee data representing that parking fee to the management server. The management server relays the parking fee data to the aforementioned communication terminal. A parking management system comprising a communication terminal that sends an electronic payment request to a payment server in order to perform electronic payment of parking fees represented by the parking fee data, and when the electronic payment is completed by the payment server, sends a payment completion signal to the management server.

[0049] According to this system, a post-payment type parking lot equipped with payment machines that do not support electronic payments can become compatible with electronic payments by using the user's communication terminal while essentially continuing to use the payment machines as they are (with minimal changes to the configuration).

[0050] (11) A parking management system for managing post-payment parking lots, An entry / exit control device installed in the aforementioned parking lot and controlling the entry and exit of vehicles to and from the parking lot, A payment machine installed in the aforementioned parking lot has a payment function that allows users to pay parking fees by payment methods other than electronic payment when exiting the parking lot, and a command function that commands the entry / exit control device. A management server is installed outside the aforementioned parking lot and communicates with the aforementioned payment machine, A user's communication terminal that is capable of communicating with the management server. Includes, The aforementioned communication terminal sends a settlement request to the management server when the goods are dispatched. The management server sends a request to the payment machine to calculate the parking fee. The payment machine calculates the parking fee and transmits the parking fee data representing that parking fee to the management server. The management server relays the parking fee data to the communication terminal. The communication terminal sends an electronic payment request to the payment server in order to perform electronic payment of the parking fee represented by the parking fee data, and when the electronic payment is completed by the payment server, it sends a payment completion signal to the management server. The management server transmits a payment authorization signal to the payment machine, The payment machine transmits an exit permission operation command signal to the aforementioned entry / exit control device. The entry / exit control device, and the parking management system that performs an exit permission operation to allow the vehicle to exit the parking lot.

[0051] (12) A parking management system for managing post-payment parking lots, An entry / exit control device installed in the aforementioned parking lot and controlling the entry and exit of vehicles to and from the parking lot, A payment machine installed in the aforementioned parking lot has a payment function that allows users to pay parking fees by payment methods other than electronic payment when exiting the parking lot, and a command function that commands the entry / exit control device. A management server is installed outside the aforementioned parking lot and communicates with the aforementioned payment machine, A user's communication terminal that is capable of communicating with the management server. Includes, The aforementioned communication terminal is The system includes a payment request transmission unit that, upon exiting the parking lot, transmits a payment request and identification information to the management server to identify the selected parking location chosen by the user from among multiple parking locations in the parking lot, in response to the user's operation. The aforementioned management server The calculation request transmission unit, upon receiving the settlement request and the identification information, transmits a request to calculate the parking fee to the settlement machine along with the identification information. The aforementioned payment machine is The system includes a parking fee data transmission unit that, upon receiving the calculation request along with the identification information, calculates the parking time for the selected parking location identified by the identification information, calculates the parking fee, and transmits parking fee data representing the parking fee to the management server. The aforementioned management server The system includes a parking fee data relay unit that, upon receiving the aforementioned parking fee data, relays the parking fee data to the aforementioned communication terminal. The aforementioned communication terminal is The system includes a payment completion signal transmission unit that, after receiving the parking fee data, sends an electronic payment request to a payment server in response to user operation to perform electronic payment of the parking fee represented by the parking fee data, and sends a payment completion signal to the management server when the electronic payment is completed by the payment server. The aforementioned management server Upon receiving the payment completion signal, the unit has a dispatch permission signal transmitting unit that transmits a dispatch permission signal to the payment machine. The aforementioned payment machine is A parking management system having an exit permission operation command signal transmitting unit that, upon receiving the exit permission signal, transmits an exit permission operation command signal to the entry / exit control device, which commands the device to operate to allow the vehicle to exit the parking lot.

[0052] (13) The communication terminal has a positioning function that measures its current location, The parking management system according to any one of paragraphs (10) to (12), wherein the communication terminal and / or the management server permits the electronic payment on the condition that the user is in the vicinity of the parking lot.

[0053] (14) A parking management system for managing post-payment parking lots, A payment machine installed in the aforementioned parking lot, which has a payment function that allows users to pay parking fees by a payment method other than electronic payment when their vehicle exits the aforementioned parking lot, A user's communication terminal that is capable of communicating with the payment machine. Includes, The communication terminal transmits a settlement request to the settlement machine when the vehicle is released. When the payment machine receives the payment request, it calculates the parking fee and transmits the parking fee data representing that parking fee to the communication terminal. The communication terminal sends an electronic payment request to the payment server in order to perform electronic payment of the parking fee represented by the parking fee data, and when the electronic payment is completed by the payment server, it sends a payment completion signal to the payment machine. The payment machine is a parking management system that, upon receiving the payment completion signal, operates to permit the vehicle to exit the parking lot.

[0054] (15) The parking lot has multiple parking spaces, The aforementioned payment machine manages whether or not there is a parked vehicle for each parking space. The aforementioned communication terminal is Upon exiting the parking lot, the payment machine transmits the payment request and identification information for identifying the selected parking location chosen by the user from among multiple parking locations in the parking lot, in response to the user's operation. The payment machine is The parking management system according to paragraph (14), which, upon receiving the settlement request and the identification information, calculates the parking time for the selected parking location identified by the identification information, calculates the parking fee, and transmits the parking fee data representing the parking fee to the communication terminal.

[0055] (16) Furthermore, the system includes a management server capable of communicating with the aforementioned communication terminals, When the communication terminal transmits the payment completion signal to the payment machine, it transmits parking information representing the parking status of the parking lot to the management server. The parking management system according to paragraph (14) or (15), wherein the management server obtains parking information related to the parking lot, which has been acquired by the payment machine, from the payment machine via the communication terminal.

[0056] Herein, the management server has the function of comprehensively managing the parking lot based on multiple pieces of parking information (for example, the operating status of each parking space, the time of day of parking, the amount of parking fees, etc.) obtained from the communication terminals of multiple users of the parking lot.

[0057] Furthermore, the management server also has the function of centrally managing multiple parking lots based on multiple pieces of parking information, for example, by obtaining parking information for other parking lots from the payment machines of each parking lot via the communication terminals of each user.

[0058] (17) The parking management system according to paragraph (16), wherein the communication terminal performs short-range wireless communication with the payment machine, and thereby the communication terminal performs the electronic payment on the condition that the user is in the vicinity of the payment machine.

[0059] (18) A program for causing a computer to function as a communication terminal as described in any of paragraphs (10) through (17).

[0060] (19) A program to cause a computer to function as a management server as described in any of paragraphs (10) through (17).

[0061] (20) A program for causing a computer to function as a payment machine as described in any of paragraphs (10) through (17).

[0062] (21) A recording medium on which a program described in any of paragraphs (17) through (20) is recorded in a computer-readable manner.

[0063] (22) A parking management system for managing a parking lot, An entry / exit control device installed in the aforementioned parking lot and controlling the entry and exit of vehicles to and from the parking lot, A management server installed outside the aforementioned parking lot and communicating directly or via another device with the aforementioned entry / exit control device, A user's communication terminal that is capable of communicating with the management server. Includes, The aforementioned communication terminal sends a dispatch request to the management server when dispatching goods. When the management server meets predetermined conditions (for example, payment of parking fees, use of free parking tickets or coupons), it transmits an exit permission signal to the entry / exit control device. The entry / exit control device is a parking management system that, upon receiving the exit permission signal, performs an operation to permit the vehicle to exit the parking lot. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0064] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a bicycle parking area to which a bicycle parking management system according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a conceptual perspective view illustrating how communication takes place between multiple bicycle parking areas, multiple users, a management center, and payment service providers in the bicycle parking management system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a front view of the ticket vending machine shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram showing the communication network configuration in the bicycle parking management system shown in Figure 1, with the ticket vending machine, mobile terminal, management server, and payment server as its respective components. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram conceptually representing the mobile device shown in Figure 2. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a functional block diagram conceptually representing the management server shown in Figure 2. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart conceptually representing an example of a bicycle parking request processing program executed by a ticket vending machine, a mobile terminal, and a management server, respectively, in the bicycle parking management system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a conceptual tabular representation of the management list created on the management server to manage the operational status of bicycle parking lots in the bicycle parking lot management system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart conceptually representing an example of a bicycle parking request processing program executed by a ticket vending machine, a mobile terminal, and a management server, respectively, in a bicycle parking management system according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart conceptually representing an example of a bicycle parking request processing program executed by a ticket vending machine, a mobile terminal, and a management server, respectively, in a bicycle parking management system according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a conceptual diagram showing the communication network configuration in the bicycle parking management system shown in Figure 10, with the ticket vending machine, mobile terminal, management server, and payment server as its respective components. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram conceptually representing the communication path between the entry / exit control device, the payment machine, and the management server, and the communication network configuration for communication between the user's mobile terminal, the management server, and the payment server, in a bicycle parking management system according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart conceptually representing an example of an entry processing program executed by the entry / exit control device and the payment machine, respectively, when a bicycle enters the parking lot management system shown in Figure 12. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart conceptually representing an example of an exit processing program executed by the entry / exit control device, payment machine, user's mobile terminal, management server, and settlement server, respectively, when a bicycle is exited, in the bicycle parking management system shown in Figure 12. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a diagram conceptually representing the communication path between the entry / exit control device, the payment machine, and the user's mobile terminal, and the communication network configuration for communication between the user's mobile terminal, the management server, and the payment server, in a bicycle parking management system according to an exemplary fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart conceptually representing an example of a parking lot exit processing program executed by the entry / exit control device, payment machine, user's mobile terminal, management server, and settlement server, respectively, when a bicycle is exiting the parking lot in the parking lot management system shown in Figure 15. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0065] Hereinafter, several more specific and exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0066] <First Embodiment>

[0067] As shown in Figure 1, a bicycle parking management system (hereinafter simply referred to as "the System") 10 according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is used to provide a bicycle parking service in which the user pays a prepaid fee in cash or by payment using a transportation IC card (an example of a "prepaid IC card") or by electronic payment, and is then leased to a user one of several racks 72 (an example of a "parking lot" in the present invention) in a bicycle parking area 22 (an example of a "parking space" in the present invention) that has several racks 72 capable of parking several bicycles 12. The bicycle parking management system according to this embodiment is configured to perform a bicycle parking management method according to this embodiment.

[0068] Here, "transportation IC cards" are prepaid IC cards that primarily allow payment of service fees for specific transportation systems, and serve as replacements for, for example, previous commuter passes, balance-based tickets, and multi-ride tickets.

[0069] First, to give a brief overview, as shown in Figure 1, according to this system 10, each bicycle parking area 22 is equipped with a ticket vending machine 30 that issues a ticket in exchange for a prepaid fee paid by the user in cash or using a transportation card. The user is required to affix the purchased ticket to their bicycle 12 in order to prove that they have the right to use the bicycle parking area 22.

[0070] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, according to this system 10, the user uses a mobile terminal 90 (an example of a "communication terminal" in this invention) to access a management server 50 operated by the management center 40 via a communication network (for example, the internet as a global network), thereby obtaining the right to use the bicycle parking area 22.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the user uses a mobile terminal 90 to access a payment server 110 operated by the payment provider 100 via the communication network, and thereby the user pays the required fees by electronic payment. On the condition of this payment, the management server 50 grants the user the right to use the bicycle parking area 22.

[0072] Next, to explain in more detail, as shown in Figure 1, each of the multiple bicycle parking areas 22 (only representative bicycle parking areas 22 are shown in Figure 1) that are centrally managed by the management center 40 is equipped with bicycle parking facilities 20. These facilities 20 include a ticket vending machine 30 and a bicycle storage device 70.

[0073] First, let me explain the hardware configuration of the ticket vending machine 30.

[0074] As shown in Figure 3, the ticket vending machine 30 has a ticket issuance button 32 and a fee settlement button 34. The ticket vending machine 30 has a ticket issuance function that issues a physical ticket under predetermined conditions when the user presses the ticket issuance button 32 after selecting the length of the planned parking time (planned usage time) (the ticket type corresponding to the ticket type) prior to starting parking and paying the corresponding amount of prepaid parking fee. Furthermore, the ticket vending machine 30 has a fee settlement function that issues a receipt indicating that the additional parking fee has been settled when the user presses the fee settlement button 34 after the parking period has ended and the additional parking fee has been paid.

[0075] As shown in Figure 3, the ticket vending machine 30 is configured to include a coin handling unit, a safe, and a control board (not shown), a display unit 36, and a printer (not shown) for printing and issuing tickets and receipts.

[0076] The control board is mainly composed of a computer having a processor and memory, and by executing a program described later with reference to Figure 7, it enables users to pay prepaid fares with cash or transportation cards. Therefore, the software configuration of this ticket vending machine 30 will be explained later with reference to Figure 7.

[0077] The ticket vending machine 30 further includes a card reader 38 that reads data from the user's prepaid card when the user holds it over the reader, and a communication unit 40 for short-range wireless communication with the user's mobile terminal 90.

[0078] As shown in Figure 3, the coin processing unit includes a coin slot 50, a return lever 52, a coin selector (which determines the type of coin inserted and whether or not the inserted coin is counterfeit) (not shown), and a coin return slot 56. Coins that are not returned to the user through the coin return slot 56 are stored in the safe.

[0079] As shown in Figure 3, the front of the door 24 of the ticket vending machine 30 is equipped with a ticket issuing button 32, a fare payment button 34, a transparent window 60 through which display light from the screen of the display unit 36 ​​(for example, a liquid crystal display) passes, a coin slot 50, a return lever 52 and a coin return slot 56, and an outlet 64 for dispensing tickets and receipts printed and ejected by the printer.

[0080] In this embodiment, the display unit 36 ​​is a touch panel type. Therefore, the display unit 36 ​​displays multiple parking time lengths in relation to the amount of the prepaid fee, and when the user touches any of these parking times, one of the parking times is selected as the planned parking time, and as a result, the ticket type is selected.

[0081] Furthermore, the display unit 36 ​​displays the numbers of multiple racks 72 and displays a message prompting the user to enter the number of the rack 72 in which they wish to store their bicycle 12. In response, the user touches the number of one of the racks 72, thereby specifying the rack 72 they used.

[0082] Next, the configuration of the bicycle storage device 70 will be described.

[0083] The bicycle storage device 70 comprises a plurality of racks 72 and a frame 74 that connects the racks 72 to each other. The racks 72 define a plurality of bicycle parking spaces on the support surface of the bicycle parking area 22 (for example, the ground, leveled ground, paved surface, etc.).

[0084] A user who wishes to park their bicycle 12 in the bicycle parking area 22 selects one of the available racks 72 (unused or not occupied) and places their bicycle 12 into that rack 72 to park it. The user then unlocks their loop lock 80 and secures the bicycle 12 to the rack 72. After that, the user locks the loop lock 80. Subsequently, the user leaves the bicycle parking area 22 alone.

[0085] As is well known, the loop lock 80 consists of a single flexible wire with both ends connected to each other via a dial lock. The dial lock is unlocked by applying the appropriate PIN.

[0086] Next, the communication network configuration will be explained with reference to Figure 4.

[0087] The ticket vending machine 30 performs short-range two-way wireless communication with the mobile terminal 90 using IR signals, the communication unit of the fare adjustment machine 210, NFC (Near Field Communication) signals, etc., in its communication unit (transmitter and receiver) 40. The ticket vending machine 30 may also be capable of performing long-range two-way wireless communication with the mobile terminal 90 and / or the management server 50 via the Internet.

[0088] The mobile terminal 90 communicates with the management server 50 of the management center 40 via the internet using long-distance two-way wireless communication. Furthermore, the mobile terminal 90 communicates with the payment server 110 of the payment provider 100 via the internet using long-distance two-way wireless communication.

[0089] Next, the hardware configuration of the mobile terminal 90 will be explained with reference to Figure 5.

[0090] The mobile terminal 90 is an example of a communication terminal that can be carried by the user, such as a mobile phone, smartphone, laptop computer, tablet computer, or PDA. However, it may also be a communication terminal that cannot be carried by the user, such as a fixed telephone installed in the bicycle parking area 22 or a public telephone installed near the bicycle parking area 22.

[0091] To explain the hardware configuration of the mobile terminal 90 with reference to Figure 5, a functional block diagram, the mobile terminal 90 is mainly composed of a computer 134 having a processor 130 and a memory 132 that stores multiple programs (also called "applications") executed by the processor 130 (see Figure 7).

[0092] The mobile terminal 90 further includes a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display) 136 for displaying information, a receiving unit 138 for receiving signals from the management server 50 (and / or payment machine 210), and a transmitting unit 140 for generating signals and transmitting those signals to the management server 50 (and / or payment machine 210).

[0093] The mobile terminal 90 further includes an input unit 150 for inputting data and commands from the user. The input unit 150 includes, for example, an operation unit that can be operated by the user to input desired information (e.g., commands, data, etc.) into the mobile terminal 90. This operation unit may include, but is not limited to, a touchscreen that displays user-operable icons (e.g., virtual buttons), a physical operation unit that can be operated by the user (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, buttons, etc.), or a microphone that senses sound.

[0094] This mobile terminal 90 also has a GPS (Satellite Positioning System) receiver 152. As is well known, the GPS receiver 152 receives multiple GPS signals from multiple GPS satellites and, based on these GPS signals, measures the position of the GPS receiver 152 on Earth (latitude, longitude, and altitude) by triangulation.

[0095] Here, GPS is an example of a positioning unit that measures the current location of the mobile terminal 90, i.e., the user's current location 90.

[0096] Other examples include a method in which the mobile terminal 90 receives a signal representing the location coordinates of a wireless base station (installed inside or outside the bicycle parking area 22, such as an access point or cellular base station) for wireless communication of the mobile terminal 90 and uses it to determine its position, and a method in which the mobile terminal 90 receives a signal from a transmitter installed in the bicycle parking area 22 that represents a unique transmitter ID, and uses that transmitter ID to determine its position by converting it into the location coordinates of the transmitter.

[0097] The mobile terminal 90 also incorporates an acceleration sensor 154 that detects its own acceleration. Because the acceleration sensor 154 is mounted on the mobile terminal 90, it vibrates together with the mobile terminal 90, and as a result, the acceleration acting on the acceleration sensor 154 itself is detected as equivalent to the acceleration acting on the mobile terminal 90.

[0098] Next, the hardware configuration of the management server 50 will be explained with reference to Figure 6.

[0099] Referring to Figure 6, a functional block diagram, the hardware configuration of the management server 50 will be explained. The management server 50 is mainly composed of a computer 164 having a processor 160 and a memory 162 that stores multiple applications (see Figure 7) executed by the processor 160.

[0100] The management server 50 further includes a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display) 166 for displaying information, a receiving unit 168 for receiving signals from the mobile terminal 90, a transmitting unit 170 for generating signals and transmitting them to the mobile terminal 90, and a clock 172. The management server 50 does not communicate directly with the ticket vending machine 30, but effectively does so via the mobile terminal 90.

[0101] Next, we will describe the software configurations of the ticket vending machine 30, the user's mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50.

[0102] Figure 7 conceptually illustrates in a flowchart an example of a bicycle parking request processing program that is executed by the ticket vending machine 30, the mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 in system 10, respectively, which allows the user to pay the prepaid fee in cash or by using the ticket vending machine 30 while operating the mobile terminal 90.

[0103] First, in step S31, the mobile terminal 90 starts the bicycle parking request processing program, which is stored in memory 132, by having the processor 130 execute the program.

[0104] Next, in step S32, the mobile terminal 90 allows the user to enter the number of the rack 72 in the parking area 22 that the user wishes to use for storing the bicycle 12.

[0105] Next, in step S33, the mobile terminal 90 displays a message on its screen prompting the user to operate the ticket vending machine 30 if the user wishes to pay the prepaid fare with cash or a transportation card.

[0106] In this case, the user follows the message and approaches the ticket vending machine 30.

[0107] In step S1, the ticket vending machine 30 displays multiple scheduled usage times on the touch panel of the display unit 36, associating them with the corresponding prepaid fare amounts. When the user touches one of the multiple scheduled usage times displayed on the touch panel of the display unit 36 ​​with their finger, the user selects the desired ticket type. At this point, the prepaid fare amount is finalized.

[0108] Next, in step S2, the ticket vending machine 30 allows the user to enter the number of the rack 72 in the parking area 22 that the user wishes to use for storing their bicycle 12.

[0109] Subsequently, in step S3, the ticket vending machine 30 allows the user to pay the prepaid fare in cash or with a transportation card.

[0110] Next, once the payment described above is completed, the ticket vending machine 30 sends a payment completion signal to the mobile terminal 90 in step S4, along with the parking lot ID unique to the parking lot 22, the entered rack number, and the length of the planned usage time corresponding to the selected ticket type.

[0111] As mentioned above, communication between the ticket vending machine 30 and the mobile terminal 90 is short-range bidirectional wireless communication using IR signals, Bluetooth® signals, NFC (Near Field Communication) signals, etc. Typically, one user is positioned in front of one ticket vending machine 30, so it is expected that one ticket vending machine 30 and one mobile terminal 90 will communicate with each other.

[0112] At this time, in step S34, the mobile terminal 90 attempts to receive data from the ticket vending machine 30. If the reception is successful, the determination in step S35 becomes YES, and the device proceeds to step S36.

[0113] In step S36, the mobile terminal 90 compares the rack number entered by the user in step S32 with the rack number received from the ticket vending machine 30 in step S34. If the comparison is successful (the two rack numbers match), the mobile terminal 90 determines that there is only one user in front of one ticket vending machine 30 and that a one-to-one relationship exists between the ticket vending machine 30 and the mobile terminal 90, which is a normal state.

[0114] Next, in step S37, the mobile terminal 90 authenticates the parking lot 22 where the user is currently located, based on the parking lot ID received from the ticket vending machine 30 in step S34, according to the correspondence between the parking lot ID and the parking lot 22 which is stored in the memory 132 in advance.

[0115] Subsequently, in step S38, the mobile terminal 90 determines that the procedure for lending a bicycle parking space for the current user has been completed, and in step S39, it sends a procedure completion signal to the management server 50, along with the bicycle parking space ID, the rack number, and the length of the planned usage time (hereinafter collectively referred to as "bicycle parking-related information").

[0116] In response, the management server 50 receives the procedure completion signal along with the bicycle parking-related information described above in step S51. Subsequently, in step S52, the management server 50 registers the rack number in association with the bicycle parking ID (in the example shown in the figure, "Bicycle Parking A") in the management list shown in Figure 8, which is stored in memory 162.

[0117] Subsequently, in step S53, the management server 50 grants the user the authority to use rack 72 with the rack number in the current bicycle parking area 22. Next, in step S54, the management server 50 measures the current time as the start time and registers that start time in the management list shown in Figure 8.

[0118] Subsequently, in step S55, the management server 50 measures the current time, and then in step S56, it determines whether the actual usage time obtained by subtracting the start time from the current time exceeds the scheduled usage time. If it does not exceed the scheduled usage time, the determination is NO, and the process returns to step S55. However, if it does exceed the scheduled usage time, the determination is YES, and in step S57, the user's time-out regarding the use of the bicycle parking area 22 is registered in the management list illustrated in Figure 8.

[0119] This management list is shared by multiple workers under the control of the management center 40 who are dispatched to any bicycle parking area 22, by allowing them to view it. As a result, each worker can individually identify bicycles 12 that have exceeded the time limit in the bicycle parking area 22 they are responsible for.

[0120] Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 90, substantially in parallel with the execution of step S39 described above, transmits the procedure completion signal to the ticket vending machine 30 in step S40, similar to step S39.

[0121] In response, the ticket vending machine 30 receives a completion signal from the mobile terminal 90 in step S5, and then, in step S6, uses the printer to issue a physical ticket as proof that the user has the right to use the bicycle parking area 22.

[0122] The user then attaches the purchased ticket to their bicycle 12. As a result, the worker can visually determine whether each bicycle 12 belongs to a user who has paid the advance fee.

[0123] <Second Embodiment>

[0124] Next, a bicycle parking management system 10 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention will be described. However, redundant explanations of parts common to the bicycle parking management system 10 according to the first embodiment will be omitted, and only the different parts will be described in detail. The bicycle parking management system according to this embodiment is configured to perform the bicycle parking management method according to this embodiment.

[0125] In the first embodiment described above, the ticket vending machine 30 and the mobile terminal 90 are linked by focusing on the fact that the person who made the payment to the ticket vending machine 30 (payer) and the person who operated the mobile terminal 90 (operator) are both the same user. To achieve this, the user is forced to input the same rack number into both the ticket vending machine 30 and the mobile terminal 90.

[0126] In contrast, in this embodiment, the same objective can be achieved by having the user input the rack number only into the mobile terminal 90. However, the present invention may also be implemented in a manner in which the same objective can be achieved by having the user input the rack number only into the ticket vending machine 30.

[0127] Figure 9 conceptually illustrates in a flowchart an example of a bicycle parking request processing program that is executed by the ticket vending machine 30, the mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 in system 10, respectively, which allows the user to pay the prepaid fee in cash or by using a transportation card at the ticket vending machine 30 while operating the mobile terminal 90.

[0128] According to this embodiment, in step S131, the mobile terminal 90 starts the bicycle parking request processing program by having the processor 130 execute the bicycle parking request processing program stored in the memory 132.

[0129] Next, in step S132, the mobile terminal 90 allows the user to enter the number of the rack 72 in the parking area 22 that the user wishes to use for storing the bicycle 12.

[0130] Next, in step S133, if the user wishes to pay the prepaid fee with cash or a transportation card, the mobile terminal 90 transmits a signal including the rack number and its own source address (such as the IP address or MAC address of the mobile terminal 90) to the ticket vending machine 30 by broadcast, for example, via Bluetooth® or the Internet (at this point, the mobile terminal 90 does not know the destination address (IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the ticket vending machine 30 to which it is transmitting).

[0131] Subsequently, in step S134, the mobile terminal 90 displays a message on its screen prompting the user to operate the ticket vending machine 30.

[0132] Following the message, the user approaches the ticket vending machine 30.

[0133] In step S102, the ticket vending machine 30 identifies the source from the source address included in the signal received from the mobile terminal 90. Subsequently, in step S103, it establishes communication between the ticket vending machine 30 and one mobile terminal 90. Then, in step S104, it rejects the reception of signals sent from other users' mobile terminals 90, which are other sources. Specifically, from this point onward, the ticket vending machine 30 only receives signals in which its own address is included as the destination address.

[0134] Next, in step S105, the ticket vending machine 30 displays the rack number included in the signal received from the mobile terminal 90 in step S101 on the touch panel of the display unit 36, and also displays multiple scheduled usage times in association with the corresponding amounts of multiple prepaid fees.

[0135] Subsequently, in step S106, the ticket vending machine 30 allows the user to select the desired ticket type when they touch one of the multiple scheduled usage times displayed on the touch panel of the display unit 36. At this point, the amount of the prepaid fare is determined.

[0136] Next, in step S107, the ticket vending machine 30 allows the user to pay the prepaid fare in cash or with a transportation card.

[0137] Next, once the payment described above is completed, the ticket vending machine 30, in step S108, sends a payment completion signal to the mobile terminal 90 only, along with its own source address, via Bluetooth® or the Internet using a unicast method (at this point, the ticket vending machine 30 knows the destination address of the mobile terminal 90), along with the parking lot ID unique to the current parking lot and the length of the scheduled usage time corresponding to the selected ticket type.

[0138] At this point, in step S135, the mobile terminal 90 attempts to receive data from the ticket vending machine 30. If the reception is successful, the determination in step S136 becomes YES, and the process proceeds to step S137.

[0139] In step S137, the mobile terminal 90 authenticates the parking lot 22 where the user is currently located, based on the parking lot ID received from the ticket vending machine 30 in step S135, according to the correspondence between the parking lot ID and the parking lot 22, which is stored in the memory 132 in advance.

[0140] Subsequently, in step S138, the mobile terminal 90 determines that the procedure for lending a bicycle parking space for the current user has been completed, and in step S139, it sends a procedure completion signal to the management server 50, along with the bicycle parking space ID, the rack number, and the length of the planned usage time (hereinafter collectively referred to as "bicycle parking-related information").

[0141] In response, the management server 50 receives the procedure completion signal along with the bicycle parking-related information described above in step S151. Subsequently, in step S152, the management server 50 registers the rack number in association with the bicycle parking ID (in the example shown in Figure 8, "Bicycle Parking A") in the management list shown in Figure 8, which is stored in memory 162.

[0142] Subsequently, in step S153, the management server 50 grants the user the authority to use rack 72 with the rack number in the current bicycle parking area 22. Next, in step S154, the management server 50 measures the current time as the start time and registers that start time in the management list illustrated in Figure 8.

[0143] Subsequently, in step S155, the management server 50 measures the current time, and then in step S156, it determines whether the actual usage time obtained by subtracting the start time from the current time exceeds the scheduled usage time. If it does not exceed the scheduled usage time, the determination is NO, and the process returns to step S155. However, if it does exceed the scheduled usage time, the determination is YES, and in step S157, the user's time-out regarding the use of the bicycle parking area 22 is registered in the management list illustrated in Figure 8.

[0144] On the other hand, after (or before) the execution of step S108, the ticket vending machine 30 uses the printer to issue a physical ticket in step S109 as proof that the user has the right to use the bicycle parking area 22.

[0145] <Third Embodiment>

[0146] Next, a bicycle parking management system 10 according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention will be described. However, redundant explanations of parts common to the bicycle parking management system 10 according to the first embodiment will be omitted, and only the different parts will be described in detail. The bicycle parking management system according to this embodiment is configured to perform the bicycle parking management method according to this embodiment.

[0147] The first and second embodiments described above are both specific examples of implementing the present invention under a first communication environment, that is, a communication environment in which the ticket vending machine 30 can communicate with the mobile terminal 90 but cannot communicate with the management server 50, although information from the ticket vending machine 30 can be transmitted to the management server 50 via the mobile terminal 90. This embodiment, however, is a specific example of implementing the present invention under a second communication environment, that is, a communication environment in which the ticket vending machine 30 can communicate with the management server 50 but cannot communicate with the mobile terminal 90.

[0148] Figure 10 conceptually illustrates in a flowchart an example of a bicycle parking request processing program that is executed by the ticket vending machine 30, the mobile terminal 90, and the management server 50 in system 10, respectively, which allows the user to pay the prepaid fee in cash or by using the ticket vending machine 30 while operating the mobile terminal 90.

[0149] As shown in Figure 11, in this embodiment, the ticket vending machine 30, the mobile terminal 90, the management server 50, and the payment server 110 are interconnected via the Internet. However, in this embodiment, communication between the ticket vending machine 30 and the mobile terminal 90 is disabled. As a result, in this embodiment, the ticket vending machine 30 and the mobile terminal 90, which do not communicate with each other in effect, are connected in parallel to the management server 50.

[0150] Specifically, as shown in Figure 10, in step S231, the mobile terminal 90 first starts the bicycle parking request processing program by having the processor 130 execute the bicycle parking request processing program stored in memory 132.

[0151] Next, in step S232, the mobile terminal 90, on the condition that the user is a member of the bicycle parking service, sends user ID information (e.g., a unique number, a unique sequence of symbols, a telephone number, an email address, etc.), which is unique to that user, to the management server 50.

[0152] In response, the management server 50 receives the user ID in step S251.

[0153] After step S232 is executed, in step S233, the mobile terminal 90 allows the user to choose a payment method for the prepaid fee from a first option, which is cash payment or card payment using the ticket vending machine 30, and a second option, which is electronic payment using the mobile terminal 90 (smartphone payment, credit card payment, cash card payment, etc.).

[0154] Next, in step S234, the mobile terminal 90 determines whether the payment method selected by the user is the first option. If the determination is YES, in step S235, the mobile terminal 90 displays a message on its screen prompting the user to operate the ticket vending machine 30.

[0155] In contrast, if the determination in step S234 is NO, the mobile terminal 90 communicates with the payment server 110 shown in Figure 2, and the user pays the prepaid fee electronically. This is not directly related to the present invention, so further explanation is omitted.

[0156] Following the message displayed on the screen after step S235, the user approaches the ticket vending machine 30.

[0157] In step S201, the ticket vending machine 30 displays multiple scheduled usage times on the touch panel of the display unit 36, associating them with multiple corresponding prepaid fare amounts. When the user touches one of the multiple scheduled usage times displayed on the touch panel of the display unit 36 ​​with their finger, the user selects the desired ticket type. At this time, the amount of the prepaid fare is finalized.

[0158] Next, in step S202, when the user holds their membership card over the card reader 38, the ticket vending machine 30 reads the user ID from the membership card.

[0159] Subsequently, in step S203, the ticket vending machine 30 allows the user to enter the number of the rack 72 in the parking area 22 that the user wishes to use for storing their bicycle 12.

[0160] Next, in step S204, the ticket vending machine 30 transmits the entered user ID along with the parking lot ID specific to the parking lot 22 to the management server 50.

[0161] In response, the management server 50 receives the user ID and bicycle parking ID from the ticket vending machine 30 in step S252. Subsequently, in step S253, the management server 50 compares the entered user ID with the user ID entered in step S251. If the comparison is successful, the management server 50 determines in step S254 that authentication of the user has been successful.

[0162] Subsequently, in step S255, the management server 52 authenticates the parking lot 22 in question based on the input parking lot ID, according to the correspondence between the parking lot ID and the parking lot 22 which is stored in memory 162 beforehand.

[0163] Meanwhile, after step S204 is completed, step S205 allows the ticket vending machine 30 to allow the user to pay the prepaid fare in cash or with a transportation card.

[0164] Next, once the payment described above is completed, the ticket vending machine 30 sends a payment completion signal to the management server 50 in step S206, along with the parking lot ID, the entered rack number, and the length of the scheduled usage time corresponding to the selected ticket type (hereinafter collectively referred to as "parking-related information").

[0165] In response, the management server 50 receives the payment completion signal along with the parking-related information described above in step S256. Subsequently, in step S257, the management server 50 registers the rack number in association with the parking area ID (in the example shown in Figure 8, "Parking Area A") in the management list shown in Figure 8, which is stored in memory 162.

[0166] Subsequently, in step S258, the management server 50 determines that the user has completed the procedures required to use the bicycle parking area 22. In response, in step S259, the management server 50 sends a procedure completion signal to the mobile terminal 90, and simultaneously, in step S260, sends the same procedure completion signal to the ticket vending machine 30.

[0167] Subsequently, in step S261, the management server 50 grants the user the authority to use rack 72 with the rack number in the current bicycle parking area 22. Next, in step S262, the management server 50 measures the current time as the start time and registers that start time in the management list shown in Figure 8.

[0168] Subsequently, in step S263, the management server 50 measures the current time, and then in step S264, it determines whether the actual usage time obtained by subtracting the start time from the current time exceeds the scheduled usage time. If it does not exceed the scheduled usage time, the determination is NO, and the process returns to step S263. However, if it does exceed the scheduled usage time, the determination is YES, and in step S265, the user's time-out regarding the use of the bicycle parking area 22 is registered in the management list illustrated in Figure 8.

[0169] Meanwhile, after executing step S206, the ticket vending machine 30 receives the procedure completion signal in step S207, and then in step S208, uses the printer to issue a physical ticket as proof that the user has the right to use the bicycle parking area 22.

[0170] Furthermore, in step S236, the mobile terminal 90 attempts to receive the procedure completion signal from the management server 50. If it succeeds in receiving the signal, the determination in step S237 becomes YES, and in step S238, it is determined that the procedure that the user must perform in order to use the bicycle parking area 22 has been completed.

[0171] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0172] Next, a bicycle parking management system 10 according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. However, redundant explanations of parts common to the bicycle parking management system 10 according to the first to third embodiments will be omitted, and only the different parts will be described in detail. The bicycle parking management system according to this embodiment is configured to perform the bicycle parking management method according to this embodiment.

[0173] This embodiment differs from the aforementioned first to third embodiments, all of which are examples of prepaid parking management systems, in that it is an example of a postpaid parking management system. However, this embodiment is similar to the aforementioned third embodiment in that it is a specific example of implementing the present invention under a second communication environment, namely, a communication environment in which the payment machine 210, which corresponds to the ticket vending machine 30, can communicate with the management server 50 but cannot communicate with the mobile terminal 90.

[0174] In the system 10 according to this embodiment, when entering the parking area, the user does not operate their mobile terminal 90 or the payment machine 210. At that time, the only thing that operates is the parking / exit control device 200, which operates in response to the user placing a bicycle 12 (an example of a "vehicle") into one of the racks 72.

[0175] On the other hand, when exiting the parking lot, if the user wishes to pay the deferred parking fee with cash or a prepaid IC card, they only need to operate the payment machine 210 and do not need to operate their mobile terminal 90. However, if they wish to pay electronically, they only need to operate their mobile terminal 90 and do not need to operate the payment machine 210.

[0176] However, when an item is released, the payment machine 210 operates according to instructions from the management server 50, and the management server 50 is instructed by the mobile terminal 90. Therefore, in this system 10, the user does not directly operate the payment machine 210, but indirectly operates it, and the entry / exit control device 200 is activated via the payment machine 210.

[0177] Figure 12 conceptually shows the communication routes between the inventory control device 200 and the payment machine 210 (e.g., communication cable, public telephone line, internet line, etc.), the communication routes between the payment machine 210 and the management server 50 (e.g., public telephone line, long-distance wireless communication line, internet line, etc.), and the communication network configuration for communication between the user's mobile terminal 90, the management server 50, and the settlement server 110 (e.g., the internet, etc.) in this system 10.

[0178] An example of an entry / exit control device 200 includes a gate device (not shown) installed at the entrance / exit of a bicycle parking area (an example of a "parking lot") 22 (common to multiple racks 72), and a controller (not shown) that controls the gate device. The gate device has a movable member (e.g., a boom, a bar, etc.), and the movable member can be switched between a state that allows bicycles 12 to leave the bicycle parking area 22 and a state that prevents them from leaving.

[0179] Another example of the entry / exit control device 200 includes retractable, flap-type, or lock-type locking devices (not shown) installed on each of the racks 72 in the bicycle parking area 22 (each an example of a "parking position" or "parking space"), and a controller (not shown) that controls the locking devices. In any form, the entry / exit control device 200 for each rack 72 has a movable member (e.g., a baffle plate, flap, lock, etc.) which can be switched between a state that allows (unlocks) and a state that prevents (locks) the bicycle 12 from leaving (exiting) the corresponding rack 72.

[0180] In one example, the controller is installed in the bicycle parking area 22 and is configured to centrally control multiple locking devices installed on multiple racks 72 in the bicycle parking area 22.

[0181] The fare adjustment machine 210 differs from the ticket vending machine 30 in that it issues a receipt as proof of payment upon exit instead of issuing a ticket as proof of payment upon entry. However, it shares the same hardware and software configuration as the ticket vending machine 30 in that it has a non-electronic payment function that allows users to make at least one of cash payments or prepaid card payments, and a communication function that allows wireless communication with the management server 50 (or mobile terminal 90).

[0182] On the other hand, regarding the time and fee calculation function, the ticket vending machine 30 has a calculation function that, upon entry, calculates the length of the effective parking time, estimated parking time, or reserved parking time, rather than the actual parking time, for each rack 72 (for example, each parking space, each parking space) according to the user's instructions (for example, the result of selecting the ticket type as described above), and calculates the amount of the parking fee based on that calculated value.

[0183] In contrast, the payment machine 210 has a calculation function that, upon exit, calculates the length of the actual parking time for each rack 72 (for example, each parking space, each vehicle compartment) based on signals from the bicycle presence sensor (for example, an object presence sensor) of the entry / exit control device 200, and calculates the amount of the parking fee based on that calculated value. Both the ticket vending machine 30 and the payment machine 210 have in common that they calculate the length of the parking time and calculate the amount of the parking fee based on that calculated value.

[0184] This calculation function is shared for both non-electronic and electronic payments, regardless of whether it is a ticket vending machine 30 or a fare adjustment machine 210.

[0185] Figure 13 conceptually shows a flowchart of an example of an inbound processing program that is executed by the inbound / outbound control device 200 and the settlement machine 210, respectively, when goods are received into the warehouse in this system 10.

[0186] When each storage processing program is executed in the storage stage, first, in step S1301, the computer (not shown) of the storage / inbound control device 200 determines whether or not a bicycle 12 has entered (stored) into any of the racks 72 in the bicycle parking area 22, using signals from, for example, the bicycle presence sensor of the storage / inbound control device 200 (not shown, but such as a sensor that senses changes in the magnetic field according to the relative position to the bicycle (e.g., a loop coil), or a sensor that senses changes in light according to the relative position to the bicycle).

[0187] If there is an incoming shipment, the determination in step S1301 becomes YES, and then in step S1302, the computer of the inbound / outbound control device 200 transmits the rack number, which is an example of identification information for identifying the rack 72 in question, to the settlement machine 210.

[0188] In response, the payment machine 210 receives the rack number in step S1351, and then, in step S1352, uses its own clock (not shown) to measure the current time as the time of arrival. Subsequently, in step S1353, the payment machine 210 associates the rack numbers and arrival times with each other and stores them in its memory (not shown).

[0189] After step S1302 is executed, the entry / exit control device 200 operates in step S1303 to prevent the bicycle 12 that has been placed in rack 72 from being removed without authorization. For example, if the entry / exit control device 200 uses a flap that can be raised and lowered, the flap is raised from the support surface of the bicycle parking area 22 to lock the bicycle 12. If the entry / exit control device 200 uses a lock that can be unlocked, the lock is locked in a position that secures the bicycle 12.

[0190] Figure 14 conceptually illustrates, in a flowchart, an example of a dispatch processing program that is executed in this system 10 at the time of dispatch by the inventory control device 200, the payment machine 210, the user's mobile terminal 90, the management server 50, and the settlement server 110, respectively.

[0191] When each dispatch processing program is executed in the dispatch stage, the mobile terminal 90 determines in step S1431 whether or not the user has entered a settlement request (which also serves as a dispatch request) into the mobile terminal 90. If a settlement request is entered, the determination in step S1431 becomes YES, and then in step S1432, the user enters the rack number of the rack 72 in which their bicycle 12 is stored into the mobile terminal 90.

[0192] Subsequently, in step S1433, the mobile terminal 90 transmits the entered rack number to the management server 50.

[0193] In response, the management server 50 receives the rack number in step S1451, and then in step S1452 sends a calculation request to the payment machine 210 for calculating the amount of parking fees that the user should pay, along with the rack number.

[0194] In response, the payment machine 210 receives the calculation request and rack number in step S1411, and then measures the current time using the clock in step S1412. Subsequently, in step S1413, the payment machine 210 calculates the elapsed time from the entry time stored in the memory to the current time as the parking time.

[0195] Next, in step S1414, the payment machine 210 calculates the parking fee by converting the calculated parking time into a parking fee according to a predetermined conversion table. Then, in step S1415, the payment machine 210 transmits the parking fee data representing the calculated parking fee to the management server 50.

[0196] In response, the management server 50 receives the parking fee data in step S1453, and then transmits the received parking fee data to the mobile terminal 90 in step S1454.

[0197] In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives the parking fee data in step S1434. That is, in this embodiment, the mobile terminal 90 is configured to receive the parking fee data indirectly using the management server 50 as a relay, rather than receiving it directly from the payment machine 210 that originally generated the data.

[0198] Next, in step S1435, the mobile terminal 90 sends an electronic payment request to the payment server 110 in order to electronically settle the parking fee represented by the received parking fee data.

[0199] In response, the payment server 110 receives the electronic payment request in step S1471, and then performs the electronic payment in step S1472. Once the payment is complete, it sends a payment completion signal to the mobile terminal 90 to indicate that the payment is complete.

[0200] In response, in step S1436, the mobile terminal 90 sends a payment completion signal to the management server 50 indicating that the parking fee has been paid by electronic payment.

[0201] In response, the management server 50 receives the payment completion signal in step S1455, and then in step S1456 transmits a deportation permission signal to the settlement machine 210.

[0202] In response, the payment machine 210 receives the exit permission signal in step S1416, and then in step S1417 transmits an exit permission operation command signal to the entry / exit control device 200.

[0203] In response, the storage control device 200, in step S1401, moves the movable member to the unlocked state, thereby allowing the bicycle 12 to be removed from the rack 72.

[0204] Thus, in this embodiment, the mobile terminal 90 is the only device the user can operate on during the outbound stage. However, while the mobile terminal 90 can communicate with both the management server 50 and the settlement server 110, it cannot communicate with the settlement machine 210, nor with the inventory control device 200. Since the inventory control device 200 can communicate with the settlement machine 210, and the settlement machine 210 can communicate with the management server 50, the mobile terminal 90 can indirectly, and ultimately, operate the inventory control device 200.

[0205] Therefore, in this embodiment, even though the payment machine 210 does not support electronic payment, the user can use electronic payment by using a portable terminal 90 that can communicate with the payment server 110, without changing the hardware configuration of the inventory control device 200, the payment machine 210, the management server 50, or the communication environment (communication path) between the inventory control device 200, the payment machine 210, and the management server 50.

[0206] In this embodiment, the user can operate their mobile terminal 90 for electronic payment from a location away from the bicycle parking area 22. However, by adding a step to confirm that the user's current location is near the bicycle parking area 22 using the GPS function of the mobile terminal 90, it is possible to compel the user to operate the mobile terminal 90 for electronic payment near the bicycle parking area 22.

[0207] Specifically, in one example, the mobile terminal 90, on the condition that the distance from the location coordinates of the bicycle parking area 22 (either pre-stored on the mobile terminal 90 in association with each bicycle parking area 22, or downloaded by the mobile terminal 90 from the management server 50) is less than or equal to a set value, will contact the management server 50 It allows communication between them, and consequently, allows users to perform procedures for electronic payments.

[0208] In another example, after an access is received from the mobile terminal 90, the management server 50 receives the current location from the mobile terminal 90, and, on the condition that the distance of the current location from the location coordinates of the bicycle parking area 22 is less than or equal to a set value, permits further communication with the mobile terminal 90, and consequently permits the user to proceed with the electronic payment procedure.

[0209] <Fifth Embodiment>

[0210] Next, a bicycle parking management system 10 according to an exemplary fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. However, redundant explanations of parts common to the bicycle parking management system 10 according to the fourth embodiment will be omitted, and only the different parts will be described in detail. The bicycle parking management system according to this embodiment is configured to perform the bicycle parking management method according to this embodiment.

[0211] This embodiment is similar to the fourth embodiment described above in that it is an example of a post-payment type parking management system. However, this embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment, in that the payment machine 210 can communicate with the mobile terminal 90 but cannot communicate with the management server 50, in that the payment machine 210 can communicate with the mobile terminal 90 but cannot communicate with the management server 50.

[0212] Similar to the fourth embodiment, in the system 10 according to this embodiment, when entering the storage area, the user does not operate their mobile terminal 90 or the payment machine 210. At that time, the only thing that operates is the entry / exit control device 200, which operates in response to the user placing a bicycle 12 (an example of a "vehicle") into one of the racks 72.

[0213] On the other hand, when exiting the parking lot, if the user wishes to pay the deferred parking fee with cash or a prepaid IC card, they only need to operate the payment machine 210 and do not need to operate their mobile terminal 90. However, if they wish to pay electronically, they only need to operate their mobile terminal 90 and do not need to operate the payment machine 210. This point is the same as in the fourth embodiment.

[0214] However, when a vehicle leaves the depot, the payment machine 210 is controlled by the mobile terminal 90. Therefore, in this system 10, the user does not directly operate the payment machine 210, but indirectly operates it, and the entry / exit control device 200 is activated via the payment machine 210.

[0215] Figure 15 conceptually illustrates the communication paths between the inventory control device 200 and the payment machine 210 (e.g., communication cable, public telephone line, internet line, etc.), the communication paths between the payment machine 210 and the user's mobile terminal 90 (e.g., near-field communication, Bluetooth®, etc.), and the communication network configuration for communication between the user's mobile terminal 90, the management server 50, and the settlement server 110 (e.g., the internet, etc.) in this system 10.

[0216] Thus, in this embodiment, unlike the fourth embodiment, the payment machine 210 has a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates with the mobile terminal 90 in order to support electronic payment. As a result, the user is required to operate the mobile terminal 90 in the vicinity of the payment machine 210, for example, within a radius of approximately 5m from the payment machine 210, in order to make an electronic payment.

[0217] In contrast, in the fourth embodiment, unless a step is added to confirm that the user's current location is near the bicycle parking area 22 using the GPS function of the mobile terminal 90, it is not possible to compel the user to use the mobile terminal 90 near the bicycle parking area 22 for electronic payment.

[0218] On the other hand, if users cannot be forced to use their mobile terminal 90 for electronic payment near the bicycle parking area 22, there is a risk that users may operate the mobile terminal 90 and fraudulently request electronic payment before arriving at the bicycle parking area 22.

[0219] When this fraudulent activity occurs, a false parking time shorter than the actual parking time is calculated, and based on that calculation, a false parking fee lower than the regular fee is calculated. When the user electronically pays this false parking fee, the entry / exit control device 200 switches to a state that allows the corresponding bicycle 12 to exit via the payment machine 210. As a result, when the user arrives at the bicycle parking area 22, they are able to exit the parking area 22 with their bicycle 12.

[0220] On the other hand, the act of a user operating a mobile terminal 90 near the bicycle parking area 22 to request electronic payment is expected to promptly leave the bicycle parking area 22 with the bicycle 12, without intentionally extending the parking time, once the electronic payment is completed. In this case, the length of the parking time calculated in response to the aforementioned electronic payment request will not be unfairly shortened compared to the actual parking time.

[0221] In this system 10, when goods are brought into storage, the storage access control device 200 and the payment machine 210 each execute a storage access processing program. However, since an example of each storage access processing program is the same as that shown in Figure 13, a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0222] Figure 16 conceptually illustrates, in a flowchart, an example of a dispatch processing program that is executed in this system 10 at the time of dispatch by the inventory control device 200, the payment machine 210, the user's mobile terminal 90, the management server 50, and the settlement server 110, respectively.

[0223] When each dispatch processing program is executed in the dispatch stage, the mobile terminal 90 determines in step S1631 whether or not the user has entered a settlement request (which also serves as a dispatch request) into the mobile terminal 90. If a settlement request is entered, the determination in step S1631 becomes YES, and then in step S1632, the user enters the rack number of the rack 72 where their bicycle 12 is stored into the mobile terminal 90.

[0224] Subsequently, in step S1633, the mobile terminal 90 transmits the entered rack number along with the payment request to the payment machine 210. In this embodiment, the payment machine 210 is designed to have a communication unit for wireless communication with the mobile terminal 90. An example of this communication unit is a communication device that performs short-range communication using the Bluetooth® method.

[0225] In response, the payment machine 210 receives the payment request and the rack number in step S1611, associating them with each other, and then, in step S1612, measures the current time using the clock. Subsequently, in step S1613, the payment machine 210 calculates the elapsed time from the entry time stored in the memory to the current time as the parking time.

[0226] Next, in step S1614, the payment machine 210 calculates the parking fee by converting the calculated parking time into a parking fee according to a predetermined conversion table. Then, in step S1615, the payment machine 210 transmits the calculated parking fee data to the mobile terminal 90.

[0227] In response, the mobile terminal 90 receives the parking fee data in step S1634. That is, in this embodiment, the mobile terminal 90 is configured to receive the parking fee data directly from the payment machine 210 that originally generated the data, rather than receiving it indirectly using the management server 50 as a relay.

[0228] Next, in step S1635, the mobile terminal 90 sends an electronic payment request to the payment server 110 in order to electronically settle the parking fee represented by the received parking fee data.

[0229] In response, the payment server 110 receives the electronic payment request in step S1671, and then performs the electronic payment in step S1672. Once the payment is complete, it sends a payment completion signal to the mobile terminal 90 to indicate that the payment is complete.

[0230] In response, in step S1636, the mobile terminal 90 transmits a payment completion signal to the payment machine 210 indicating that the parking fee has been paid by electronic payment.

[0231] In response, the payment machine 210 receives the exit permission signal in step S1616, and then in step S1617 transmits an exit permission operation command signal to the entry / exit control device 200.

[0232] In this embodiment, the operation of transmitting an exit permission operation command signal to the entry / exit control device 200 is an example of "an operation to permit the vehicle to exit the parking lot." Another example of "an operation to permit the vehicle to exit the parking lot" is the operation of displaying a message on the screen of the payment machine 210 indicating that exit is permitted in relation to the current parking position, or the operation of lighting up an indicator lamp on the payment machine 210 that, when lit, indicates that the user is permitted to exit in relation to the current parking position.

[0233] In response, the storage control device 200, in step S1601, moves the movable member to the unlocked state, thereby allowing the bicycle 12 to be removed from the rack 72.

[0234] Subsequently, in step S1637, the mobile terminal 90 transmits parking information (or parking-related information) to the management server 50. This parking information includes, for example, the rack number in which the user parked the bicycle 12 at the bicycle parking area 22, the time period during which the bicycle was parked, the length of the parking period, and the amount of parking fee paid by the user according to that length of time.

[0235] In response, the management server 50 receives the parking information from the mobile terminal 90 in step S1651. The management server 50 is designed to receive parking information from the mobile terminals 90 of users of multiple bicycle parking areas 22, thereby centrally managing multiple bicycle parking areas 22. As a result, the management server 50 can, for example, monitor the temporal changes in the utilization rate for each bicycle parking area 22, and evaluate the differences in utilization rates among multiple bicycle parking areas 22.

[0236] Thus, in this embodiment, the mobile terminal 90 is the only device the user can operate on during the outbound stage. However, the mobile terminal 90 can communicate with the payment machine 210, as well as the management server 50 and the settlement server 110. Since the inventory control device 200 can communicate with the payment machine 210, and the payment machine 210 can communicate with the mobile terminal 90, the mobile terminal 90 can indirectly and ultimately operate the inventory control device 200.

[0237] Therefore, in this embodiment, even though the payment machine 210 does not support electronic payment, the user can use electronic payment by utilizing a portable terminal 90 that can communicate with the payment server 110, without changing the hardware configuration of either the inventory control device 200 or the payment machine 210.

[0238] Furthermore, in the fourth and fifth embodiments described above, users can perform electronic payment operations using their mobile terminal 90 while remaining within the bicycle parking area 22, at a location away from the payment machine 210, and without physically occupying the payment machine 210. This is convenient for users because they are not restricted in the location where they can perform the necessary operations.

[0239] However, the fact that the payment machine 210 is not physically occupied while one user is making an electronic payment means that another user may attempt to use the payment machine 210 for non-electronic payment (cash or card payment).

[0240] In this case, the rack number assigned to one user (for example, parking location identification information) and the rack number assigned to another user would not normally match. Therefore, electronic payments that do not require the primary use of the payment machine 210 and non-electronic payments that do require it can be performed in parallel in terms of time. Consequently, the waiting time for payment is reduced, which is convenient for the user.

[0241] However, if, for some reason (for example, by chance), the rack number entered by one user into the mobile terminal 90 and the rack number entered by another user into the payment machine 210 or selected on the payment machine 210 happen to match, the first of the two payment transactions by those two users (for example, the one in which each user issued a payment request before the other) will be processed preferentially, regardless of whether the rack number at that time is correct or not. This is because there is no means to determine the authenticity of the rack number.

[0242] Therefore, as an exemplary measure to prevent incorrect input or selection of rack numbers, identification marks, such as computer-readable patterns (for example, barcodes, QR codes (registered trademarks), or other two-dimensional codes), or transmitters may be pre-installed on each of the multiple racks 72 (for example, each of the parking spaces, etc.) in the bicycle parking area 22 (an example of the parking lot).

[0243] Here, the "identification mark" is a display medium that represents a different rack location (an example of a parking location) for each rack 72. On the other hand, the "transmitter" is a communication device that transmits a signal representing a different transmitter ID for each rack 72. This transmitter ID is uniquely converted into a rack location (an example of a parking location) by the mobile terminal 90. Both the identification mark and the transmitter are location information presentation means that present different location information for each parking location.

[0244] To describe the transmitter in more detail, each transmitter is a contactless or contact-type communication device installed in each corresponding rack 72, transmitting an identification signal that can identify a unique ID for that rack 72. While it is sufficient for the transmitter to have at least a transmitting function, it may also be configured to have a receiving function as needed.

[0245] This transmitter actively and continuously emits a unique identification signal without requiring an external trigger signal, as long as there is sufficient power supply.

[0246] Furthermore, this transmitter is generally a beacon device that transmits a beacon signal as an identification signal, and is also known by names such as a wireless tag. In one example, this transmitter generates an identification signal representing the corresponding parking lot ID by modulating the original signal, and transmits the generated identification signal as an IR signal, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) signal, an NFC (Near Field Communication) signal, etc.

[0247] When using the identification mark for each rack 72, for example, before electronic settlement or non - electronic settlement, the user reads it with the image sensor (e.g., digital camera) of their mobile terminal 90, and converts the read result into a combination of the ID of the current parking lot 22 and the ID of the current rack 72, or at least converts it into the ID of the current rack 72. The mobile terminal 90 may transmit the conversion result to the management server 50 in the fourth embodiment and to the settlement machine 210 in the fifth embodiment, respectively.

[0248] On the other hand, when using the transmitter for each rack 72, for example, before electronic settlement or non - electronic settlement, the user receives the signal from the transmitter with the receiver of their mobile terminal 90, converts the received signal into a transmitter ID, and further converts the transmitter ID into a combination of the ID of the current parking lot 22 and the ID of the rack 72, or at least converts it into the ID of the current rack 72. The mobile terminal 90 may transmit the conversion result to the management server 50 in the fourth embodiment and to the settlement machine 210 in the fifth embodiment, respectively.

[0249] Also, as another exemplary measure, a user who wishes to perform electronic settlement at the time of departure applies the mobile terminal 90 to the position information presenting means for personal authentication (verification of personal information) at the time of arrival. In response, the mobile terminal 90 combines the ID of the current parking lot 22, the ID of the current rack 72, and the user ID (e.g., unique number, unique symbol string, phone number, email address, etc.) with the management server 50Alternatively, the information may be transmitted to the payment machine 210. In other words, a user who wishes to pay electronically upon exiting the facility only needs to hold their mobile terminal 90 over the location information display means upon entering the facility.

[0250] In this case, when exiting the parking area, just as when entering, if the user applies the mobile terminal 90 to the location information display means, the mobile terminal 90 will respond and display a combination of the ID of the parking area 22, the ID of the rack 72, and the user ID (for example, a unique number, a unique sequence of symbols, a telephone number, an email address, etc.) to the management server. 50 Alternatively, the information may be transmitted to the payment machine 210. In other words, a user who wishes to pay electronically only needs to hold their mobile terminal 90 over the location information display means when exiting the parking lot.

[0251] In this case, the management server responds to that. 50 Alternatively, the payment machine 210 compares the information received from the mobile terminal 90 upon entry with the information received from the mobile terminal 90 upon exit. If the comparison is successful, the management server responds accordingly. 50 The payment machine 210 may calculate the amount of the parking fee and send a request for electronic payment of that parking fee to the payment server 110, or the payment machine 210 may calculate the amount of the parking fee and send a request for electronic payment of that parking fee to the management server 50 The data may be sent to the payment server 110 via or without going through the other method.

[0252] It should be added that while some embodiments described above use a bicycle, which is an example of a "vehicle" as a mobile object, as the object to be stored, the present invention may also be implemented by selecting other examples of "vehicles," such as motorcycles, mopeds, or automobiles, as the object to be stored, either in lieu of or in addition to the above.

[0253] Furthermore, in some of the embodiments described above, all or part of the processing that was performed on the mobile terminal 90 may be performed on the management server 50 instead, and conversely, all or part of the processing that was performed on the management server 50 may be performed on the mobile terminal 90 instead. This is because the device on which processing is to be performed is usually determined by the circumstances at the time, such as the amount and type of data being handled, the processing speed and memory capacity of each device, etc.

[0254] Furthermore, while the embodiments described above embody the technical concept of making a payment device that does not support electronic payments (such as the payment machine 210) compatible with electronic payments as a whole system by combining it with a user's communication terminal (such as the mobile terminal 90), this technical concept is also useful in other business fields. For example, the aforementioned technical concept is useful in businesses that receive fares from users and issue tickets in return, businesses that receive fees from users in stores and issue meal tickets in return, and businesses that receive fees from users and issue permits in return.

[0255] Although some exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, these are illustrative examples, and the present invention can be implemented in various other forms with modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, starting with the embodiments described in the [Summary of the Invention] section above.

Claims

1. A parking management system that enhances parking spaces, The aforementioned parking lot has multiple parking spaces, and further, each parking space has multiple location information display means that display multiple different location information, The parking management system includes a management server, The management server is When a user exits from any of the aforementioned parking locations, and the user's communication terminal is applied to the location information presentation means corresponding to any of the aforementioned parking locations, the system has a function to receive user-specific information of the same type as the user-specific information acquired when the user entered the aforementioned parking location, as user-specific information at the time of exit from the user's communication terminal. The function includes transmitting parking fee data for electronic payment of parking fees to the communication terminal, provided that the user-specific information acquired at the time of entry and the user-specific information received at the time of exit match. A parking management system including...

2. The parking management system further includes a program executed by the computer of the communication terminal, The management server further includes a function to transmit the amount of the parking fee, The aforementioned electronic payment of the parking fee is performed using a payment server, which is an element not belonging to the parking management system. The aforementioned communication terminal has multiple functions, When the communication terminal is applied to the location information display means corresponding to any of the parking locations at the time of departure, it has a function to transmit the user-specific information at the time of departure to the management server. In the communication state with the management server, the function of receiving the amount of the parking fee from the management server, In the communication state with the payment server, the function of sending an electronic payment request to the payment server and Includes, The parking management system according to claim 1, wherein the program is executed by the computer of the communication terminal to realize the plurality of functions.

3. Each location information display means includes an identification mark or transmitter corresponding to the corresponding parking location, The identification mark includes a pattern representing the location information corresponding to the parking location, The parking management system according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter has a function of transmitting a signal representing the location information corresponding to the corresponding parking location.

4. The parking management system according to claim 1, wherein the location information includes information for identifying a corresponding parking location.

5. The parking management system according to claim 1, wherein the communication terminal and / or the management server has an electronic payment authorization function that, by using the communication terminal, determines whether the user is near the parking lot, and authorizes the electronic payment if it is determined that the user is near the parking lot.

6. A program executed by the management server for managing the parking lot using the parking lot management system described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A program executed by a computer in the communication terminal of a parking lot user managed by a parking management system including a management server, The aforementioned parking lot has multiple parking spaces, and further, each parking space has multiple location information display means that display multiple different location information, The management server acquires user-specific information as user-specific information at the time of entry when a user enters one of the multiple parking locations. The aforementioned communication terminal is When a user exits from any of the aforementioned parking locations, if the communication terminal is applied to the location information display means corresponding to any of the aforementioned parking locations, a transmission function is provided which sends user-specific information of the same type as the acquired user-specific information at the time of entry to the management server as user-specific information at the time of exit. Upon exiting the parking lot, a receiving function receives parking fee data from the management server for electronic payment of parking fees, provided that the acquired user-specific information at the time of entry and the transmitted user-specific information at the time of exit match. Includes, A program executed by the computer to implement the aforementioned transmission function and reception function.

8. A recording medium in which the program described in claim 6 is recorded in a computer-readable format.

9. A recording medium in which the program described in claim 7 is recorded in a computer-readable manner.

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