Payment management system, payment management device, and payment management program

Abstract

To provide supplies to a supply target person in a fair manner.SOLUTION: A supply management device 20, if biological information acquired from a biological information acquisition device 10 is not registered in a biological information DB 21, registers the acquired biological information in the biological information DB 21. The supply management device 20, after registering the acquired biological in the biological information DB 21 for a user who is not registered in the biological information DB 21, determines whether supply of supplies to the user matches a supply condition by referring to a supply condition DB 23. The supply management device 20, if the supplies are supplied to the user, allows a supply history to be identified from the biological information of the user and registers the history in a supply history DB 22. The supply management device 20, when supplying the supplies to the user who has been registered in the biological information DB 21, refers to the supply history (supply history DB 22) identified from the biological information and the supply condition DB 23 and determines the appropriateness of supply.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a payment management system, a payment management device, and a payment management program.

Background Art

[0002] In normal times, for each user, necessary material information representing the materials required during evacuation is acquired from the user terminal together with the user's attribute information, and each acquired information is associated with the user's unique identification information and stored in a storage medium. In an emergency, by generating a supply schedule for the materials required for each evacuee from the information stored in the storage medium, the user's location information, and the expected evacuation period, it is possible to reliably provide materials to the evacuees in a timely manner. There has been a proposal for an evacuee support device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a scenario where supplies (goods and services) are provided to people, the supply recipients do not always carry an identity document, and it may be impossible to record who was provided with how much of what goods and services. It is difficult to provide supplies fairly to the supply recipients.

[0005] [[ID=3⑨]]On one aspect, the present case aims to provide supplies fairly to the supply recipients.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, a supply management system is provided as described below. The supply management system includes a biometric information acquisition device that acquires biometric information from recipients, and a supply management device that determines whether or not the biometric information is already registered, registers the biometric information if it is not already registered, determines whether the supply to the recipient meets the supply conditions, registers a supply history that can be identified from the biometric information if the supply is supplied to the recipient in accordance with the supply conditions, and determines whether the supply to the recipient meets the supply conditions, including the supply history that can be identified from the biometric information if the biometric information is already registered. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, the supplies can be provided fairly to those eligible for the benefits. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a supply management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of a supply management system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of the server in the second embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a functional block of the server in the second embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a flowchart for the supply item registration process in the second embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of an inventory database in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a supply management database according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a supply location database in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a flowchart for the biometric information registration process in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a biometric information database according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a flowchart for the supply process in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of a payment history database in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of a user grouping table in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of a supply location grouping table in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of a regional grouping table according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] This figure shows a modified example of the supply management system according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that each embodiment can be implemented by combining multiple embodiments to the extent that they do not contradict each other. [First Embodiment] First, the first embodiment will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a distribution management system of the first embodiment. The distribution management system 1 enables the fair distribution of goods and services to evacuees in the event of a disaster, etc., without requiring them to carry identification cards.

[0010] The distribution management system 1 includes a biometric information acquisition device 10 and a distribution management device 20. The biometric information acquisition device 10 is an information processing device that acquires biometric information from recipients of distribution. Recipients of distribution are individuals who are eligible for goods or services and are unspecified individuals in environments where it is not easy to carry identification cards. Recipients of distribution are, for example, victims or evacuees in the event of a disaster. Biometric information is information that has physical and behavioral characteristics that can identify an individual. For example, physical characteristics include palm vein patterns, fingerprints, irises, faces, voice, etc., and behavioral characteristics include walking, specific movements, etc. The biometric information acquisition device 10 acquires one or more of these physical and behavioral characteristics from recipients of distribution.

[0011] The payment management device 20 acquires biometric information from the biometric information acquisition device 10. The payment management device 20 determines whether the acquired biometric information has been registered in the biometric information DB 21. When the acquired biometric information has not been registered in the biometric information DB 21, the payment management device 20 registers the acquired biometric information in the biometric information DB 21. For example, the biometric information DB 21 registers biometric information P(X) for the user (payment recipient) X and registers biometric information P(Y) for the user Y.

[0012] When the acquired biometric information has been registered in the biometric information DB 21, the payment management device 20 refers to the biometric information DB 21 to make it possible to identify the registered user X from the biometric information P(X) and make it possible to identify the registered user Y from the biometric information P(Y). Such a payment management device 20 can identify the user without asking the user X or the user Y for an identity document.

[0013] After registering the acquired biometric information in the biometric information DB 21 for a user who was not registered in the biometric information DB 21, the payment management device 20 refers to the payment condition DB 23 to determine whether the payment of the payment item to the user meets the payment conditions. For example, the payment condition DB 23 registers payment conditions C(A) for the payment item A and registers payment conditions C(B) for the payment item B. If the payment of the payment item A to the user meets the payment conditions C(A), the payment management device 20 enables the payment of the payment item A, and if it does not meet the conditions, it disables the payment. Also, if the payment of the payment item B to the user meets the payment conditions C(B), the payment management device 20 enables the payment of the payment item B, and if it does not meet the conditions, it disables the payment.

[0014] When the payment management device 20 pays a payment item to a user, it registers the history (payment history) of paying the payment item to the user in the payment history DB 22. The payment management device 20 registers the history in the payment history DB 22 so that it can be identified from the biometric information of the user. For example, the payment history DB 22 registers a payment history L(X) for the biometric information P(X) and registers a payment history L(Y) for the biometric information P(Y).

[0015] When supplying items to a user registered in the biometric information DB21, the supply management device 20 refers to the supply history identified from the biometric information (supply history DB22) and the supply conditions DB23 to determine whether or not to supply the item. For example, when user X tries to receive supply item A, the supply management device 20 refers to the supply history DB22 to identify the supply history L(X) identified from the biometric information P(X). If the supply conditions C(A) are not met because user X has already been supplied with supply item A, the supply management device 20 will not supply user X with supply item A again. However, if the supply conditions C(A) are still met after referring to the supply history L(X), the supply management device 20 will supply user X with supply item A.

[0016] In this way, the supply management device 20, or the supply management system 1, enables the equitable distribution of goods and services without bias or excessive distribution to specific individuals, even in situations where users do not necessarily carry identification cards. For example, the supply management device 20, or the supply management system 1, can distribute goods fairly to users by providing user X with one item A (for example, a rice ball) and one item B (for example, a bottle of tea), and user Y with one item A and one item B.

[0017] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment relates to a distribution management system that enables the fair distribution of goods and services to evacuees (users, recipients) in shelters, etc., due to disasters, without requiring them to provide identification or other forms of identification, which would impose an excessive burden on them. Since such a distribution management system does not require evacuees to provide identification or other forms of identification, it also reduces the management burden on the managing entity (for example, a local government) that manages the distribution of goods and services.

[0018] First, the system configuration of the payment management system will be explained using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of a payment management system according to the second embodiment. The payment management system 50 has a network 30 and servers 100, terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... connected to the network 30. The network 30 is, for example, a public telephone network.

[0019] Terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... are computers that can connect to server 100 via wired or wireless connection through network 30. Terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... are personal computers (PCs) installed in stores A, B, other stores, shelter X, other shelters, government office Z, etc., and operated by the person in charge. Alternatively, terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... are mobile terminals carried and operated by the person in charge assigned to stores A, B, other stores, shelter X, other shelters, government office Z, etc.

[0020] Terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... connect to biometric information acquisition devices 201(a), 201(b), 201(c), ... respectively. The biometric information acquisition devices 201(a), 201(b), 201(c), ... are capable of acquiring biometric information from the user and include, for example, palm vein readers, fingerprint readers, iris readers, and other general-purpose imaging devices.

[0021] The terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... may be integrated with the biometric information acquisition devices 201(a), 201(b), 201(c), ... connected to each of them. The terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... and the biometric information acquisition devices 201(a), 201(b), 201(c), ... connected to each of them correspond to the biometric information acquisition device 10 in the first embodiment.

[0022] Server 100 is a computer that can connect to terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... via wired or wireless connection through network 30. Server 100 is installed at government office Z or in a remote location away from the disaster area. Server 100 corresponds to the supply management device 20 in the first embodiment.

[0023] Next, the hardware configuration of server 100 will be described using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server in the second embodiment. The entire server 100 is controlled by a processor 101. The processor 101 is connected to memory 102 and several peripheral devices via a bus 114. The processor 101 may be a multiprocessor. The processor 101 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). At least some of the functions realized by the processor 101 executing a program may be realized by electronic circuits such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) and PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices).

[0024] Memory 102 is used as the main memory of the server 100. Memory 102 temporarily stores at least a portion of the OS (Operating System) program and application programs that are to be executed by the processor 101. Memory 102 also stores various data used for processing by the processor 101. For memory 102, a volatile semiconductor memory device such as RAM (Random Access Memory) is used.

[0025] Peripheral devices connected to bus 114 include a storage device 103, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) 104, an input interface 105, and an optical drive device 106. Additionally, peripheral devices connected to bus 114 include a device connection interface 107 and a network interface 108.

[0026] The storage device 103 electrically or magnetically writes and reads data from its built-in recording medium. The storage device 103 is used as an auxiliary storage device for a computer. The storage device 103 stores the OS program, application programs, and various data. For example, the storage device 103 can be an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0027] A monitor 31 is connected to the GPU 104. The GPU 104 displays images on the screen of the monitor 31 according to instructions from the processor 101. The monitor 31 can be an OLED (Electroluminescence) display device or a liquid crystal display device, among others.

[0028] The input interface 105 is connected to a keyboard 32 and a mouse 33. The input interface 105 transmits signals from the keyboard 32 and mouse 33 to the processor 101. Note that the mouse 33 is just one example of a pointing device; other pointing devices can also be used. Other pointing devices include touch panels, tablets, touchpads, and trackballs.

[0029] The optical drive device 106 reads data recorded on the optical disc 34 using laser light or the like. The optical disc 34 is a portable recording medium on which data is recorded in a way that makes it readable by light reflection. Examples of optical discs 34 include DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), DVD-RAM, CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), and CD-R (Recordable) / RW (ReWritable).

[0030] The device connection interface 107 is a communication interface for connecting peripheral devices to the server 100. For example, a memory device 35 and a memory reader / writer 36 can be connected to the device connection interface 107. The memory device 35 is a recording medium equipped with a communication function with the device connection interface 107. The memory reader / writer 36 is a device that writes data to or reads data from the memory card 37. The memory card 37 is a card-type recording medium.

[0031] The network interface 108 is connected to the network 30. The network interface 108 transmits and receives data to and from other computers or communication devices via the network 30.

[0032] The server 100 can realize the processing functions of the second embodiment with the hardware configuration described above. The biometric information acquisition device 10 and the supply management device 20 shown in the first embodiment can also be realized with the same hardware as the server 100 shown in Figure 3. Terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... can also be realized with the same hardware as the server 100. Terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... can be configured to connect to biometric information acquisition devices 201(a), 201(b), 201(c), ... which are connected to the device connection interface 107, respectively. The processor 101 has functions corresponding to the processing unit of the biometric information acquisition device 10 shown in the first embodiment, and functions corresponding to the processing unit of the supply management device 20. The storage device 103 functions with functions corresponding to the storage unit of the supply management device 20 shown in the first embodiment, and can store data corresponding to the biometric information DB 21, supply history DB 22, and supply condition DB 23.

[0033] The server 100 implements the processing functions of the second embodiment by, for example, executing a program recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. The program describing the processing to be executed by the server 100 can be recorded on various recording media. For example, the program to be executed by the server 100 can be stored in the storage device 103. The processor 101 loads at least a portion of the program in the storage device 103 into the memory 102 and executes the program. Alternatively, the program to be executed by the server 100 can be recorded on a portable recording medium such as an optical disc 34, a memory device 35, or a memory card 37. The program stored on the portable recording medium becomes executable after being installed in the storage device 103, for example, under control from the processor 101. The processor 101 can also directly read and execute the program from the portable recording medium.

[0034] Next, the functions of server 100 will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the functional blocks of the server in the second embodiment. Server 100 has a processing unit 120 and a storage unit 130. The processing unit 120 can be realized by the processor 101 executing a program that describes the required processing content, and includes a supply item registration unit 121, a biometric information registration unit 122, and a supply item provision unit 123. The storage unit 130 can be realized by a storage device 103 and can store data including a biometric information DB (biometric information database) 131, a supply management DB (supply management database) 132, a supply history DB (supply history database) 133, and an inventory DB (inventory database) 134.

[0035] The supply item registration unit 121 registers goods and services that can be supplied to recipients as supplies by executing the supply item registration process. The supply item registration process will be explained in detail later using Figure 5. The processing unit 120 (supply item registration unit 121) manages the supply conditions for supplies using the supply management DB 132 and manages the inventory of supplies using the inventory DB 134.

[0036] The biometric information registration unit 122 registers the biometric information acquired by the server 100 from terminals 200(a), 200(b), 200(c), ... into the biometric information database 131 by executing the biometric information registration process. The biometric information registration process will be explained in detail later using Figure 9. The processing unit 120 (biometric information registration unit 122) manages the biometric information of recipients using the biometric information database 131.

[0037] The supplying unit 123 enables the fair distribution of goods and services to recipients by executing the supplying process. The supplying process will be explained in detail later using Figure 11. The processing unit 120 (supplying unit 123) manages the supplying history of recipients using the supplying history DB 133, manages the supplying conditions for goods and services to recipients using the supplying management DB 132, and manages the inventory of goods and services available to recipients using the inventory DB 134.

[0038] Next, the supply item registration process performed by the server 100 will be explained using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the supply item registration process in the second embodiment. The supply item registration process is a process that the server 100 performs as needed, for example, at predetermined intervals, or triggered by updates to inventory information notified by terminals 200, etc., that have updated their inventory information.

[0039] [Step S11] The supply registration unit 121 (processing unit 120) retrieves inventory information of supplies (goods and services for recipients) from the inventory DB 134. Details of the inventory DB 134 will be explained later using Figure 6.

[0040] [Step S12] The supply item registration unit 121 (processing unit 120) proceeds to step S13 if there is an update in the inventory information, and terminates the supply item registration process if there is no update in the inventory information. [Step S13] The supply registration unit 121 (processing unit 120) determines whether the category of the supply item corresponding to the updated inventory information is registered in the supply management DB 132. If the category of the supply item corresponding to the updated inventory information is registered in the supply management DB 132, the supply registration unit 121 proceeds to step S15; otherwise, it proceeds to step S14.

[0041] [Step S14] The supply registration unit 121 (processing unit 120) registers a new category, the eligible items for supply, and the supply conditions for that category in the supply management DB 132 because the corresponding category is not registered in the supply management DB 132. The newly registered category, the eligible items for supply, and the supply conditions for that category are entered into the server 100 by the person in charge. Details of the supply management DB 132 will be explained later using Figure 7.

[0042] [Step S15] The supply registration unit 121 (processing unit 120) registers the supply-specific supply identification code for the supply items whose inventory information has been updated in the supply management DB 132. The supply registration unit 121 may also delete the supply identification code from the supply management DB 132 for the supply items that are no longer in stock.

[0043] Next, an example of inventory DB134 will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of an inventory database in the second embodiment. Inventory database 150 is an example of inventory DB134.

[0044] The inventory database 150 includes, for each supplied item, a supplied item identification code, supplied item information, a supplied item location, and inventory information. Although not shown in the diagram, the inventory database 150 may also include the name of the supplied item, the manufacturer, price, etc.

[0045] The supplied item identification code is identification information that can uniquely identify a supplied item. For example, a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code displayed on the product packaging as a barcode symbol can be used. The supplied item identification code can also be displayed and made available for use in catalogs, etc., for services. The supplied item identification code is not limited to a barcode symbol; it may also be a two-dimensional code such as a QR (Quick Response) code (registered trademark) or other format, as long as it can be input by a designated reader (reading device).

[0046] The eligibility criteria information consists of parameters used to determine eligibility, including volume (L), weight (g), calories (kcal), and time (minutes). The distribution point indicates the location where eligible recipients can pick up the supplies. The inventory shows the amount of supplies in stock at each distribution point.

[0047] For example, a supply item identified by the supply item identification code "zzz1" (for example, a 500ml bottle of tea) has a registered supply condition information of volume (L) "0.5", with supply location "A" having an inventory of "2000" and supply location "B" having an inventory of "4000".

[0048] Additionally, the supply item identified by supply item identification code "xxy1" (for example, rice ball (pickled plum)) has a registered calorie count of "180kcal" as supply condition information, and there is a stock of "500" at supply location "A". The supply item identified by supply item identification code "xxy2" (for example, rice ball (salmon)) has a registered calorie count of "200kcal" as supply condition information, and there is a stock of "500" at supply location "A".

[0049] Additionally, the supply item identified by the supply item identification code "xxz11000" (for example, bath time (from 10:00)) has a registered time of "20 minutes" and inventory of "(remaining capacity) 10" at supply location "X". The supply item identified by the supply item identification code "xxz11100" (for example, bath time (from 11:00)) has a registered time of "20 minutes" and inventory of "(remaining capacity) 12" at supply location "X".

[0050] This inventory database 150 is updated when the JAN codes and other information read from handheld terminals or tablets at each supply station, along with the inventory quantities entered by each supply station, are notified to the server 100.

[0051] The supplies provided include items stockpiled by local governments and other organizations, as well as items promised by companies through prior agreements, and items provided by nearby stores and other businesses. The supplies also include the right to use facilities at local public facilities (e.g., showers), outdoor bathing facilities provided by the Self-Defense Forces, and services such as health checks by medical personnel. The availability of such services is determined by setting a stock quantity for the extent possible based on available facilities, personnel, and usage time.

[0052] Next, an example of the payment management DB 132 will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the payment management database of the second embodiment. The payment management database 152 is an example of the payment management DB 132.

[0053] The supply management database 152 classifies supplied items by category and includes the recipient, the conditions for supply, and the identification code of the supplied item classified into that category in its registered contents. Categories are defined by the names of goods or services that can be integrated into one or more categories. Eligibility limits who is eligible for the goods or services provided to meet the needs of the recipients. For example, eligibility can be "unrestricted" with no restrictions whatsoever, "infants / toddlers / adults" based on approximate age, "requiring care" based on whether or not care is needed, or "male / female / other" based on gender.

[0054] The conditions for distribution are those that limit the number or amount of items distributed to prevent the distribution from being concentrated in the hands of specific individuals. These conditions may include limits per distribution, per day, or per month. Although not shown in the diagram, there may also be restrictions over the entire period, per specified period, or based on weather or temperature.

[0055] A supply item identification code can register multiple items or services that fall under the same category. For example, supply item identification codes "zzz1," "zzz2," and "zzz3" would all be classified under the "Water Supply" category, even if they are water bottles with different capacities such as 500ml, 660ml, and 1000ml. Similarly, supply item identification codes "xxy1," "xxy2," and "xxy3" would all be classified under the "School Lunch" category, with the recipient being "Adults," even if they are different food items such as rice ball (plum), rice ball (salmon), and sweet bread.

[0056] In this way, the payment management database 152 makes it possible to manage items that fall under the same category, even if they are different in specific terms or services, by grouping them into a single category. This reduces the burden on the person in charge of payments and facilitates the fair distribution of goods and services to recipients.

[0057] For example, supplies classified under the "Batteries" category can be issued without restrictions on the recipient, with a limit of 5 units per distribution, 5 units per day, and 10 units per month. Supplies classified under the "Batteries" category correspond to batteries and rechargeable batteries identified by the supply item identification codes "xxx1," "xxx2," and "xxx3," and a new supply item identification code will be added when new batteries or rechargeable batteries are added to the inventory.

[0058] Furthermore, for supplies categorized as "baby diapers," the recipients will be limited to infants and toddlers, with a maximum of 10 diapers per distribution, 10 per day, and 300 per month. The supplies categorized as "baby diapers" correspond to baby diapers identified by the supply identification codes "zzx1" and "zzx2".

[0059] Additionally, the provided items (services) categorized as "shower" will be available for a maximum of 5 minutes per use, once a day, and 15 times a month, during specific time slots. When the recipient is "male," the showers categorized as "shower" will be identified by the provided item identification code "xxz21000" (available from 10am), and when the recipient is "female," the showers categorized as "xxz21002" (available from 10am) will be identified.

[0060] Next, an example of a supply depot database included in the supply management DB132 will be explained using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a supply depot database in the second embodiment. The supply depot database 154 is a database associated with the supply depots of the inventory database 150.

[0061] The distribution center database 154 includes the name, type, address, telephone number, and longitude / latitude (location information) of each distribution center. The name of the distribution center is a name that can identify the distribution center, for example, distribution centers "A", "B", "C", "X", and "Y".

[0062] The format of the distribution center will allow for distinction between whether it is classified as a store or a shelter. Distribution centers can be classified as stores, such as retail stores or supermarkets, or as shelters, such as community centers or schools. Distribution centers will be searchable by name, format, address, telephone number, and latitude / longitude (location information), and it will also be possible to search for other distribution centers adjacent to a specific one, or other distribution centers of the same format as a specific one. For example, the distribution center database 154 will allow for the extraction of distribution centers in the same or adjacent areas based on location information such as town names included in the address and latitude / longitude.

[0063] For example, distribution center "A" is a distribution center of the type "store," and its location and contact information can be identified by its address "ADR_A," telephone number "TEL_A," and latitude and longitude "IAKA." Distribution center "X" is a distribution center of the type "shelter," and its location and contact information can be identified by its address "ADR_X," telephone number "TEL_X," and latitude and longitude "IXKX."

[0064] Next, the biometric information registration process performed by the server 100 will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the biometric information registration process in the second embodiment. The biometric information registration process is triggered by the receipt of a notification of biometric information from the terminal 200 or the like, which acquired the biometric information during user registration.

[0065] [Step S21] The biometric information registration unit 122 (processing unit 120) determines whether the acquired biometric information is a new registration. The biometric information registration unit 122 refers to the biometric information DB 131 and can determine that the acquired biometric information is a new registration if it is not registered in the biometric information DB 131. If the acquired biometric information is a new registration, the biometric information registration unit 122 proceeds to step S22; otherwise, it proceeds to step S23. The details of the biometric information DB 131 will be explained in detail later using Figure 10.

[0066] [Step S22] The biometric information registration unit 122 (processing unit 120) registers the acquired biometric information in the biometric information DB 131. The biometric information to be newly registered is limited to a predetermined authentication type, and in the event of special circumstances such as injury or loss of the biometric information acquisition site, acquisition of biometric information using an alternative site may be permitted, and the information is registered along with information that can identify the acquisition site.

[0067] [Step S23] The biometric information registration unit 122 (processing unit 120) identifies users whose biometric information has been registered as a result of matching with the biometric information DB 131. [Step S24] The biometric information registration unit 122 (processing unit 120) determines whether to register a different type of biometric information for a user whose biometric information has already been registered. For example, the biometric information registration unit 122 determines to register new authentication type biometric information when it obtains a different type of biometric information along with the already registered biometric information. The biometric information registration unit 122 proceeds to step S25 when it decides not to register new authentication type biometric information, and terminates the biometric information registration process when it decides not to register new authentication type biometric information.

[0068] [Step S25] The biometric information registration unit 122 (processing unit 120) registers new biometric information of a new authentication type for the identified user whose biometric information has already been registered. This allows the biometric information registration unit 122 to identify eligible recipients without requiring users to carry identification documents. Furthermore, while identifying users, the biometric information registration unit 122 increases the flexibility of the types of devices (biometric information acquisition devices) that can be used at each distribution center.

[0069] Furthermore, the biometric information registration unit 122 can notify the supply provision unit 123 that a new user has been registered (step S22). Also, the biometric information registration unit 122 can notify the supply provision unit 123 that an existing user has been identified (step S23).

[0070] Although the biometric information registration unit 122 is described as registering biometric information of a new authentication type, it may also be configured to limit registration to predetermined authentication types and not allow registration of biometric information of a new authentication type.

[0071] Next, an example of the biological information DB 131 will be explained using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of a biological information database according to the second embodiment. The biological information database 156 is an example of the biological information DB 131.

[0072] The biometric information database 156 includes user ID, biometric information pattern, and biometric information authentication type in its registered contents. The user ID is unique identification information, for example, sequentially numbered. The biometric information pattern is information that normalizes biometric information obtained from the user into a predetermined format. The biometric information pattern is accompanied by a biometric information authentication type that can identify the type of biometric authentication. Furthermore, the biometric information database 156 requires user registration using a biometric information pattern with the biometric information authentication type "palm vein," and also allows the registration of additional biometric information patterns with different biometric authentication types.

[0073] For example, user ID "000001" registers only the biometric pattern "P000010" with the biometric authentication type "palm vein". On the other hand, user ID "000003" registers the biometric pattern "P000030" with the biometric authentication type "palm vein", in addition to the biometric pattern "P000031" with the biometric authentication type "face".

[0074] The biometric information database 156 may include user attribute information in its registered contents, although this is not shown in the diagram. User attribute information corresponds to the information of those eligible for benefits in the benefit management database 152, and is information that can identify the user's age ("infant / toddler / adult"), whether or not they require care ("healthy / requiring care"), and gender ("male / female / other"). Attribute information can be entered from the terminal 200 along with the acquisition of biometric information.

[0075] Although the biometric information database 156 uses "palm vein" as the default biometric authentication type, the biometric authentication type may be determined by the usage environment, and for example, "face" may be set as the default biometric authentication type.

[0076] Next, the supply provision process performed by server 100 will be explained using Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the supply provision process in the second embodiment. The supply provision process is triggered by the confirmation of supply provision notified from terminal 200 when supplying supplies to recipients.

[0077] [Step S31] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) acquires biological information. [Step S32] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) instructs the biometric information registration unit 122 to perform biometric information registration processing. The supply unit 123 receives notification from the biometric information registration unit 122 that a new registration or user identification has been made as a result of biometric information registration.

[0078] [Step S33] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) obtains the supply history of the user (recipient) identified from the biometric information obtained by referring to the supply history DB 133. The details of the supply history DB 133 will be explained in detail later using Figure 12.

[0079] [Step S34] The supply supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) obtains the supply conditions for the supplies by referring to the supply management DB 132. [Step S35] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) determines whether or not the supply item can be supplied based on the user's supply history and supply conditions. If the supply unit 123 can supply the item, it proceeds to step S36; if it cannot supply the item, it terminates the supply item supply process. The supply unit 123 also notifies the terminal 200 that provided the biometric information of the determination that the supply item can be supplied. This allows the terminal 200 to inform the user whether or not the supply item should be supplied.

[0080] [Step S36] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) obtains the inventory information of the supplied items by referring to the inventory DB 134. [Step S37] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) proceeds to step S38 if there is sufficient stock to supply the items at the supply station where the user is located, and to step S40 if there is no stock.

[0081] [Step S38] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) registers the results of supplying the items to the user in the supply history DB 133. [Step S39] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) registers the decrease in inventory as a result of supplying the supplies to the user in the inventory DB 134 and terminates the supply supply process.

[0082] [Step S40] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) searches for a nearby supply location that can supply the user by referring to the inventory DB 134. The supply unit 123 can also search for a suitable nearby supply location by referring to the supply location database explained using Figure 8.

[0083] [Step S41] The supply unit 123 (processing unit 120) terminates the supply unit provision process by making the search results available to the user as nearby supply locations. For example, the supply unit 123 notifies the terminal 200 that sent the biometric information of nearby supply locations that can supply the items. As a result, the terminal 200 can guide the user to a supply location that can supply the items.

[0084] Next, an example of the payment history DB 133 will be explained using Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the payment history database of the second embodiment. The payment history database 158 is an example of the payment history DB 133.

[0085] The supply history database 158 includes the user ID, supply date and time, supply item identification code, and quantity as registered information. The supply date and time is the date and time when the supply item was supplied to the user identified by the user ID. The supply item identification code is information that can identify the supply item supplied to the user identified by the user ID. Alternatively, the supply item may be identified within the scope of the categories described in the supply management database 152 instead of the supply item identification code. The quantity is information that can identify the number of supplies (or predetermined units such as the number of times) supplied to the user identified by the user ID.

[0086] For example, user ID "000001" received two supplies (water) identified by the supply identification code "zzz1" at the supply date and time "Y1 / M1 / D1 (year, month, day) H1 / M1 / S1 (hour, minute, second)".

[0087] Next, the user grouping table will be explained using Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of a user grouping table in the second embodiment. Users are not limited to adults or healthy individuals who can independently receive supplies, but also include infants who depend on others such as guardians, and elderly people who require care from caregivers. To accommodate users who cannot independently receive supplies, the supply management system 50 allows a proxy to receive supplies by linking a specific user ID to another person's user ID. The user grouping table 160 is a data table associated with user IDs in the biometric information database 156. The user grouping table 160 is created when a person in charge confirms the validity of a user's declaration and inputs it into the person in charge's terminal 200, and the created content is notified to the server 100. The server 100 can store the user grouping table 160 in the storage unit 130.

[0088] The user grouping table 160 is a data table that links two or more user IDs. The user grouping table 160 includes a representative user ID, user IDs associated with the representative user ID, and a reason. The representative user ID is an ID that represents multiple user IDs, allowing other users to act as proxies. The reason is the reason why grouping was necessary and is accessible to the service provider.

[0089] For example, Representative User ID "000002" and User ID "000102" are grouped together because the user identified by User ID "000102" is an "infant," and the user identified by Representative User ID "000002" represents User ID "000102."

[0090] Furthermore, Representative User ID "000005" and User ID "000301" are grouped together because the user identified by User ID "000301" is "in need of care," and the user identified by Representative User ID "000005" represents User ID "000301."

[0091] The supply management system 50 uses such a user grouping table 160 to enable a representative user to undergo biometric authentication on behalf of users who are unable to independently receive the supplies.

[0092] Specifically, when the representative user ID "000005" undergoes biometric authentication and declares that it will act as an agent for the grouped users, terminal 200 notifies server 100 of this information. Server 100 then performs special processing related to the provision of supplies by authenticating the agent instead of the grouped users.

[0093] Such a distribution management system 50 can keep users who cannot independently receive supplies at evacuation shelters during disasters in a safe environment, and contributes to avoiding congestion at distribution centers and reducing the workload of staff.

[0094] Next, the supply depot grouping table will be explained using Figure 14. Figure 14 shows an example of a supply depot grouping table in the second embodiment. The supply supply unit 123 was explained to be able to search for a suitable supply depot in the vicinity by referring to the supply depot database 154 explained using Figure 8, but by using the supply depot grouping table 162, it is possible to search for a suitable supply depot even more easily.

[0095] The distribution center grouping table 162 is a data table associated with distribution centers in the distribution center database 154. The distribution center grouping table 162 is created by the distribution center staff member verifying its validity and inputting it into their terminal 200, and the created content is notified to the server 100. The server 100 can store the distribution center grouping table 162 in the storage unit 130. The distribution center grouping table 162 may also be automatically generated by performing proximity determination based on predetermined rules using address and location information from the distribution center database 154.

[0096] The distribution center grouping table 162 includes data tables for nearby distribution centers of the same type, which are grouped together, and nearby distribution centers of different types, which are grouped together.

[0097] For example, distribution center "A" has distribution center "B" nearby which is of the same type, and distribution center "X" nearby which is of a different type. Distribution center "Y" has distribution center "X" nearby which is of the same type, but there are no distribution centers nearby which are of a different type.

[0098] By using such a distribution center grouping table 162, the distribution management system 50 can appropriately guide users to a nearby distribution center that can provide the supplies as an alternative when the distribution center is unable to provide the supplies.

[0099] Furthermore, the supply management system 50 may group supplies by region rather than by supply station when the management area is extensive. Next, the region grouping table will be explained using Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of a region grouping table in the second embodiment. The supply supply unit 123 was explained to be able to search for a suitable supply station in the vicinity by referring to the supply station database 154 explained using Figure 8, but by using the region grouping table 164, it is possible to search for a suitable supply station when the management area is extensive.

[0100] The regional grouping table 164 is a data table associated with the distribution centers in the distribution center database 154. The regional grouping table 164 is created by the distribution center staff member verifying its validity and inputting it into their terminal 200, and the created content is notified to the server 100. The server 100 can store the regional grouping table 164 in the storage unit 130. The regional grouping table 164 may also be automatically generated by performing a proximity determination based on predetermined rules using the address and location information of the distribution center database 154.

[0101] The regional grouping table 164 includes a data table containing neighboring regions, which are grouped together for each region where a distribution center is located. For example, the region "City A, Town B" has a neighboring region "City A, Town C". The region "City A, Town C" has a neighboring region "City A, Town B" as well as a neighboring region "City A, Town D". Such regional groupings may be established considering not only the distance between two locations but also accessibility such as railways and roads.

[0102] By using such a regional grouping table 164, the supply management system 50 can appropriately guide users to a nearby supply center that can provide the supplies as an alternative when the supply center is unable to provide the supplies.

[0103] Next, the distribution management system 50 is described as a distribution management system that enables the fair distribution of goods and services to evacuees (users, recipients) in the event of a disaster, etc., without requiring them to provide identification or other forms of identification, which would impose an excessive burden on them. However, it can also be used for other purposes. Next, as a modified example of the distribution management system 50, the distribution management system 50a will be described using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram showing a modified example of the distribution management system of the second embodiment. The modified example of the second embodiment relates to a distribution management system that enables the fair distribution of goods and services to users in normal times without requiring them to provide identification or other forms of identification.

[0104] The payment management system 50a includes a network 30a, a server 100a connected to the network 30a, and mobile terminal devices 202(a), 202(b), 202(c), ... equipped with biometric information reading devices. The network 30a is, for example, a public telephone network.

[0105] Mobile terminal devices with biometric information reading devices 202(a), 202(b), 202(c), ... are computers that can connect to server 100a wirelessly (or wired) via network 30a. Mobile terminal devices with biometric information reading devices 202(a), 202(b), 202(c), ... are mobile terminals that are carried and operated by providers of goods or services.

[0106] Mobile terminal devices 202(a), 202(b), 202(c), ... equipped with biometric information reading devices are capable of acquiring biometric information from users. Mobile terminal devices 202(a), 202(b), 202(c), ... equipped with biometric information reading devices correspond to the biometric information acquisition device 10 in the first embodiment.

[0107] Server 100a is a computer that can connect to the mobile terminal devices 202(a), 202(b), 202(c), ... equipped with biometric information readers via wired or wireless connection through the network 30a. Server 100a is located in a remote location away from the mobile terminal devices 202(a), 202(b), 202(c), ... equipped with biometric information readers. Server 100a corresponds to the supply management device 20 in the first embodiment.

[0108] Such a distribution management system 50a enables the fair distribution of goods and services in places where it is not easy to carry identification cards, such as swimming pools, beaches, hot springs, public baths, and sports competitions, and also reduces the management burden on the management body responsible for managing the distribution of goods and services.

[0109] Furthermore, such a distribution management system 50a can be used in situations where there is resistance to presenting identification, for example, when distributing promotional items and it is not necessary to require the presentation of identification but it is desirable to avoid duplicate distribution.

[0110] It should be noted that the disclosed embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. Furthermore, the configurations of the above embodiments and modifications may be applied in combination. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the above description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0111] 1. Payment Management System 10. Biometric Information Acquisition Device 20 Supply Management Device 21 Biological Information Database 22 Payment History Database 23. Payment Conditions Database

Claims

1. A biometric information acquisition device that acquires biometric information from eligible recipients, Determine whether the aforementioned biometric information has already been registered. If the biometric information is not already registered, the biometric information is registered, it is determined whether the provision of the goods to the recipient meets the provision conditions, and if the provision conditions are met and the goods are provided to the recipient, the provision history that can be identified from the biometric information is registered. A supply management device that, if the biometric information is already registered, determines whether the supply of goods to the recipient meets the supply conditions, including the supply history identified from the biometric information, A payment management system that includes this.

2. Determine whether the biometric information obtained from the recipient has already been registered. If the biometric information is not already registered, the biometric information is registered, it is determined whether the provision of the goods to the recipient meets the provision conditions, and if the provision conditions are met and the goods are provided to the recipient, the provision history that can be identified from the biometric information is registered. A processing unit that determines whether the provision of goods to the recipient meets the provision conditions, including the provision history identified from the biometric information, if the biometric information has already been registered. A supply management device having the following features.

3. The processing unit identifies the supply conditions information for the supply item using identification information that can identify the supply item, and determines whether the supply of the supply item to the recipient meets the supply conditions based on the supply conditions information. The supply management device according to claim 2.

4. The processing unit groups the first recipient and the second recipient, determines whether the provision of the goods to the second recipient meets the provision conditions based on the biometric information obtained from the first recipient who represents the group, and registers the provision history of the second recipient when the goods are provided to the second recipient in accordance with the provision conditions. The supply management device according to claim 2.

5. The processing unit guides the recipient to one supply location from among two or more supply locations capable of supplying the supplies, based on the inventory information of the supplies and the location information of the supply locations. The supply management device according to claim 2.

6. The processing unit modifies the payment conditions based on the attributes of the recipient. The supply management device according to claim 2.

7. On the computer, Determine whether the biometric information obtained from the recipient has already been registered. If the biometric information is not already registered, the biometric information (including attribute information) is registered, it is determined whether the provision of the goods to the recipient meets the provision conditions, and if the provision conditions are met and the goods are provided to the recipient, the provision history that can be identified from the biometric information is registered. If the biometric information is already registered, the system determines whether the provision of the goods to the recipient meets the provision conditions, including the provision history identified from the biometric information. A payment management program that executes the processing.

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