Electronic receipt management server, electronic receipt system, electronic receipt management method and program

Abstract

To provide an electronic receipt management server, or the like, which can properly provide an electronic receipt.SOLUTION: A CPU of an electronic receipt server is configured to: retrieve and acquire purchase information corresponding to an electronic receipt ID received from a user terminal, from member purchase information (Step S101); generate an electronic receipt from the acquired purchase information (Step S102); determine whether to display game link information for playing a game on the electronic receipt by referring to game display condition information (Step S103); when a determination is made to display the game link information (Step S104: Yes), add the game link information (an image, etc., linked to game execution) to the generated electronic receipt (Step S105); and terminate electronic receipt generation processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic receipt management server, an electronic receipt system, an electronic receipt management method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] An electronic receipt system has been proposed that adds and displays information indicating that a coupon is attached to an electronic receipt (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] [[ID=2!]]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the system described in Patent Document 1, it was not interesting just to display coupon information on the electronic receipt.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above actual situation, and an object thereof is to provide an electronic receipt management server or the like that can preferably provide an electronic receipt. [[ID-40]]

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, the electronic receipt management server of the present invention a purchase information storage means for storing the purchase information of a product in association with a purchase information identifier; a receiving means for receiving an electronic receipt acquisition request including the purchase information identifier from a terminal of a user who is a purchaser of the product; a generation means for, when the electronic receipt acquisition request is received, acquiring the purchase information corresponding to the purchase information identifier included in the electronic receipt acquisition request from the purchase information storage means and generating electronic receipt information based on the purchase information; The system comprises a transmission means for transmitting the electronic receipt information generated by the generation means to the terminal that sent the electronic receipt acquisition request, The generating means is If the predetermined conditions are met, the electronic receipt information is generated with a game link that allows the player to select to play the game. If the above predetermined conditions are not met, the electronic receipt corresponding to the electronic receipt information will not meet the above predetermined conditions. electronically The electronic receipt information for display is generated.

[0007] The aforementioned predetermined conditions are the date and time of purchase indicated by the electronic receipt information. but It may also include the period within a specified time from the current date and time.

[0008] Furthermore, the electronic receipt system of the present invention is The aforementioned electronic receipt management server, An electronic receipt system comprising a game provision server capable of providing game information, The game server, upon receiving the electronic receipt information, will, when the game link included in the electronic receipt information is selected, provide the terminal with a game that the user can play. Corresponding data The system includes a game information transmission means for transmitting the aforementioned game information.

[0009] The game information transmitted by the game information transmission means via the network can be configured. The aforementioned game provision server is When the game information transmission means receives game execution information indicating that a game has been played based on the game information transmitted by the game information transmission means, the determination means determines the game result, The system may further include a bonus information transmission means for transmitting the game result determined by the determination means to the source of the game information.

[0010] Furthermore, the electronic receipt management method of the present invention is The electronic receipt management server, Store product purchase information and purchase information identifiers in association. The system receives an electronic receipt acquisition request containing the purchase information identifier from the user's terminal, who is the purchaser of the product. When the aforementioned electronic receipt acquisition request is received, the purchase information corresponding to the purchase information identifier included in the electronic receipt acquisition request is acquired, and electronic receipt information is generated based on the purchase information. The generated electronic receipt information is transmitted to the terminal that sent the electronic receipt acquisition request. If the predetermined conditions are met, the electronic receipt information is generated with a game link that allows the player to select to play the game. If the above predetermined conditions are not met, the electronic receipt corresponding to the electronic receipt information will not meet the above predetermined conditions. electronically The electronic receipt information for display is generated.

[0011] Furthermore, the program of the present invention, Computers, Purchase information storage means for storing product purchase information and purchase information identifiers in association, Receiving means for receiving an electronic receipt acquisition request including the purchase information identifier from the terminal of a user who is the purchaser of the product, When an electronic receipt acquisition request is received, a generation means acquires the purchase information corresponding to the purchase information identifier included in the electronic receipt acquisition request from the purchase information storage means and generates electronic receipt information based on the purchase information. The generating means functions as a transmitting means that transmits the electronic receipt information generated by the generating means to the terminal that sent the electronic receipt acquisition request. The generating means is If the predetermined conditions are met, the electronic receipt information is generated with a game link that allows the player to select to play the game. If the above predetermined conditions are not met, the electronic receipt corresponding to the electronic receipt information will not meet the above predetermined conditions. electronically The electronic receipt information for display is generated. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, an electronic receipt can be preferably provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an electronic receipt system in an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an electronic receipt server. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a store terminal. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 5] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an electronic receipt membership server. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of gamification. [Figure 7] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a retail terminal. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of member purchase information. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of member information. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of game information. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of game result information. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing the processing flow in an electronic receipt system. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing the processing flow in an electronic receipt system. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing an example of an electronic receipt generation process. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing the processing flow in an electronic receipt system. [Figure 16] (A) shows an example of the display of an electronic receipt, (B) shows an example of the display of a game screen, and (C) and (D) show examples of the display of a game result screen.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, an electronic receipt system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] Figure 1 shows an example configuration of the electronic receipt system 100. The electronic receipt system 100 consists of, for example, an electronic receipt server 10, a store terminal 20, a user terminal 30, an electronic receipt membership server 40, a gamification server 50, and a retail terminal 60, as shown in Figure 1. The electronic receipt server 10, the store terminal 20, the user terminal 30, the electronic receipt membership server 40, the gamification server 50, and the retail terminal 60 are connected via a network 90.

[0016] The electronic receipt server 10 receives user purchase information from the store terminal 20 and stores the purchase information in association with the user's information. Furthermore, when the electronic receipt server 10 receives a request to view an electronic receipt from the user terminal 30, it transmits the electronic receipt information corresponding to the request to the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, the electronic receipt server 10 is the electronic receipt management server of the present invention.

[0017] The store terminal 20 is, for example, a POS (Point of Sale) terminal installed in a store. It processes payment when a customer (user) purchases goods via the user terminal 30, and transmits the user information and purchased goods information (purchase information) read from the user terminal 30 to the electronic receipt server 10. Although three store terminals 20 are shown in Figure 1, the number of store terminals 20 in the electronic receipt system 100 can be any number, as each store is provided with its own store terminals. Furthermore, each store may have multiple store terminals 20.

[0018] The user terminal 30 is a mobile device with communication capabilities, typically a smartphone owned by the user. The user terminal 30 may also be other communication devices such as a tablet or smartwatch. The user terminal 30 can display a code on its screen corresponding to the user's information (for example, a membership number at the store). The store terminal 20 can obtain the user's information by reading this code and transmit the user's information and purchase information to the electronic receipt server 10. Furthermore, once the payment process is completed after the store terminal 20 has read the user's information, the user terminal 30 receives a link to view the electronic receipt from the electronic receipt server 10 and can display the electronic receipt via this link.

[0019] Thus, the electronic receipt system 100 reads user information when payment is made at the store terminal 20, and issues an electronic receipt in place of or in addition to issuing a paper receipt at the store terminal 20, which can then be viewed by the user terminal 30.

[0020] The electronic receipt member server 40 stores the user's membership number at the store (the retail store to which the store belongs) and the membership ID in the electronic receipt system 100 in association with each other. When the electronic receipt member server 40 receives the membership number at the store (retail store) from the store terminal 20, it converts it to the membership ID in the electronic receipt system 100 and sends it back to the store terminal 20.

[0021] The gamification server 50 provides a game that can be played on the user terminal 30 via an electronic receipt, and transmits the results of the played game to the user terminal 30 and the retail terminal 60.

[0022] The retail terminal 60 is an information processing terminal for managing the stores where the store terminals 20 in the electronic receipt system 100 are located, and is used by retailers (retailers, companies, manufacturers), and can be a personal computer, tablet, smartphone, etc. The retail terminal 60 allows for the configuration of the game content provided by the gamification server 50. The retail terminal 60 also manages the results of the games provided by the gamification server 50 and the reward information corresponding to the game results. As shown in Figure 1, there only needs to be at least one retail terminal 60, and the electronic receipt system 100 may have multiple retail terminals 60. For example, if multiple retailers use the electronic receipt system 100, the number of retail terminals 60 should correspond to the number of retailers.

[0023] Network 90 is a communication network capable of transmitting various types of information, such as the internet or dedicated lines.

[0024] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an electronic receipt server 10. The electronic receipt server 10 includes, for example, a communication interface 13, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 14, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 15, a RAM (Read Only Memory) 16, and an auxiliary storage device 17.

[0025] The communication interface 13 is hardware for communicating via the network 90 described above, and is, for example, a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) module.

[0026] The CPU 14 provides overall control over the electronic receipt server 10. The ROM 15 stores the operating programs and various data executed by the CPU 14. The RAM 16 is used as the CPU 14's workspace.

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 17 consists of storage devices such as HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) and SSDs (Solid State Drives), and read / write non-volatile semiconductor memory. Examples of read / write non-volatile semiconductor memory include EEPROMs (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) and flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 17 stores a program for receiving purchase information from the store terminal 20, storing the purchase information, and providing an electronic receipt to the user terminal 30 upon request. In other words, the auxiliary storage device 17 stores a program for causing an information processing device such as a personal computer to function as the electronic receipt server 10 of this embodiment. The program for causing the device to function as the electronic receipt server 10 may also be stored in the ROM 15.

[0028] The program for causing the information processing device to function as the electronic receipt server 10 of this embodiment may be made available for download via a network, or it may be distributed by storing it on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), magneto-optical disk, USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, memory card, HDD, or SSD.

[0029] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 17 stores member purchase information 171 for each user (member) to whom the electronic receipt is provided.

[0030] As shown in Figure 8, member purchase information 171 is information that associates the member ID, which is the member's identification information (identifier) ​​in the electronic receipt system 100, with the member's purchase history. The purchase history is information that associates the receipt ID, which is the identification information of the purchase information, with purchase information such as the store, date and time, purchased items, product price, payment amount, and payment method, as shown in Figure 8. The purchase information can be any information that is normally printed on a receipt. In this way, member purchase information 171 is information in which the member's purchase information is accumulated as a purchase history. In addition, detailed member information such as name, age, gender, address, telephone number, and date of birth, as well as other information, may also be associated and stored in member purchase information 171.

[0031] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 17 stores game display condition information 172, which defines the conditions for displaying a game link on an electronic receipt (game display conditions on an electronic receipt). The game display conditions on an electronic receipt can be any one of several conditions, such as purchase amount, purchased items, the purchaser's gender, age, purchase date, time since purchase, and weather conditions at the time of purchase, or a combination of these conditions. The game display condition information 172 allows the retail terminal 60 to set any desired display conditions. This enables the retailer to provide games under their preferred conditions.

[0032] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a store terminal 20. The store terminal 20 includes, for example, a display 21, an operation reception unit 22, a communication interface 23, a CPU 24, a ROM 25, a RAM 26, and an auxiliary storage device 27.

[0033] The display 21 is comprised of display devices such as a liquid crystal display and an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. Under the control of the CPU 24, the display 21 displays product information and payment information in response to the reading results from the code scanner 28 and the operations received by the operation reception unit 22.

[0034] The operation reception unit 22 consists of input devices such as a keyboard, buttons, and a touch panel, and receives operation input from store employees and sends signals related to the received operations to the CPU 24.

[0035] The communication interface 23 is hardware for communicating via the network 90 described above, and is, for example, a wired or wireless LAN module.

[0036] The CPU 24 provides overall control over the store terminal 20. The ROM 25 stores the operating programs and various data executed by the CPU 24. The RAM 26 is used as the CPU 24's workspace.

[0037] The auxiliary storage device 27 consists of a storage device such as an HDD or SSD, or a read / write non-volatile semiconductor memory. The auxiliary storage device 27 stores a program that reads the member number from the user terminal 30, performs payment processing, and transmits the purchase information corresponding to the payment processing to the electronic receipt server 10. This program may also be stored in the ROM 25.

[0038] The code scanner 28 reads code symbols such as barcodes printed on products or two-dimensional codes displayed on user terminals 30, and sends signals corresponding to the read content to the CPU 24.

[0039] Printer 29 is a printing device that prints and outputs receipts and other documents corresponding to purchase information. Alternatively, printer 29 may be omitted, and an external printer device connected to the store terminal 20 may be used for printing and outputting receipts and other documents. Furthermore, the store terminal 20 may be configured with an external printer device and an information processing terminal such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0040] In this embodiment, information is transmitted from the store terminal 20 to the electronic receipt server 10 and the electronic receipt member server 40. However, a store server that stores product information, purchase information, etc., may be provided in the store, and information may be transmitted from the store terminal 20 to the electronic receipt server 10 and the electronic receipt member server 40 via the store server.

[0041] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 includes, for example, a display 31, an operation reception unit 32, a communication interface 33, a CPU 34, a ROM 35, a RAM 36, and an auxiliary storage device 37.

[0042] The display 31 comprises display devices such as liquid crystal displays and organic EL displays. The display 31 displays various screens and the like in response to user operations under the control of the CPU 34.

[0043] The operation reception unit 32 is composed of input devices such as key buttons and touch panels, and receives operation input from the user and sends signals related to the received operation to the CPU 34.

[0044] The communication interface 33 is hardware for communicating via the network 90 described above, and is, for example, a wired or wireless LAN module.

[0045] The CPU 34 provides overall control over the user terminal 30. The ROM 35 stores the operating programs and various data executed by the CPU 34. The RAM 36 is used as the CPU 34's workspace.

[0046] The auxiliary storage device 37 is composed of read-write non-volatile semiconductor memory. The auxiliary storage device 37 stores a program corresponding to an electronic receipt application that displays a barcode or two-dimensional code indicating the user's membership information (store membership number) on the display 31, registers purchase information (issues an electronic receipt) during payment processing, and retrieves an electronic receipt from the electronic receipt server 10. In this embodiment, the electronic receipt application allows the user to play a game based on the game information displayed along with the electronic receipt. The electronic receipt application program may be made downloadable, for example, via a network. The program may also be stored in the ROM 35.

[0047] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the electronic receipt member server 40. The electronic receipt member server 40 comprises, for example, a communication interface 43, a CPU 44, a ROM 45, a RAM 46, and an auxiliary storage device 47.

[0048] The communication interface 43 is hardware for communicating via the network 90 described above, and is, for example, a wired or wireless LAN module.

[0049] The CPU 44 provides overall control over the electronic receipt membership server 40. The ROM 45 stores the operating programs and various data executed by the CPU 44. The RAM 46 is used as the CPU 44's workspace.

[0050] The auxiliary storage device 47 consists of a storage device such as an HDD or SSD, or a read / write non-volatile semiconductor memory. The auxiliary storage device 47 stores a program for receiving the member number at the store from the store terminal 20, converting it into a member ID for the electronic receipt system 100, and sending it back. In other words, the auxiliary storage device 47 stores a program for causing an information processing device such as a personal computer to function as the electronic receipt member server 40 of this embodiment. The program for causing the device to function as the electronic receipt member server 40 may also be stored in the ROM 45.

[0051] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 47 stores member information 471 for each member, which is information about the member (user) to whom the electronic receipt will be provided.

[0052] As shown in Figure 9, member information 471 is information that associates the member ID, which is the identification information of a member in the electronic receipt system 100, with the member number in the store (retail). The electronic receipt member server 40 converts the member number received from the store terminal 20 into the member ID in the electronic receipt system 100 based on the member information 471. In other words, member information 471 only needs to be information that converts the member number into the member ID. In addition, detailed member information such as name, age, gender, address, telephone number, and date of birth, as well as other information, may be associated and stored in member information 471.

[0053] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a gamification server 50. The gamification server 50 includes, for example, a communication interface 53, a CPU 54, a ROM 55, a RAM 56, and an auxiliary storage device 57.

[0054] The communication interface 53 is hardware for communicating via the network 90 described above, and is, for example, a wired or wireless LAN module.

[0055] The CPU 54 provides overall control over the gamification server 50. The ROM 55 stores the operational programs and various data executed by the CPU 54. The RAM 56 is used as the CPU 54's workspace.

[0056] The auxiliary storage device 57 consists of a storage device such as an HDD or SSD, or a read / write non-volatile semiconductor memory. The auxiliary storage device 57 stores game information set from the retail terminal 60 and stores a program to provide a game corresponding to the game information to the user terminal 30 upon request. In other words, the auxiliary storage device 57 stores a program to enable an information processing device such as a personal computer to function as the gamification server 50 of this embodiment. The program to enable the device to function as the gamification server 50 may also be stored in the ROM 55.

[0057] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 57 stores game information 571 related to games provided to members (users) who receive electronic receipts. Game information 571 for each retailer registered in the electronic receipt system 100 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 57.

[0058] Game information 571 is stored and updated by the administrator pre-configuring game settings by accessing the gamification server 50 from the retail terminal 60. In other words, the retail terminal 60 can configure game information corresponding to the content of the game to be provided to the user. This allows the retailer to provide the user with the game they desire.

[0059] As shown in Figure 10, the game information 571 is information that associates the retail ID, which is the identification information of the retail (retail terminal 60), the type of game to be offered, the display period of the game, the probability of winning in the game, the maximum number of wins in the game, information on the rewards if a winner is selected, and the period for exchanging the rewards if a winner is selected. The gamification server 50 provides the game to the user based on the game information 571.

[0060] The auxiliary storage device 57 also stores image data for game execution and data for determining game results, which are necessary to actually run the game corresponding to the game type.

[0061] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a retail terminal 60. The retail terminal 60 includes, for example, a display 61, an operation reception unit 62, a communication interface 63, a CPU 64, a ROM 65, a RAM 66, and an auxiliary storage device 67.

[0062] The display 61 is comprised of display devices such as liquid crystal displays and organic EL displays. The display 61 displays various screens and the like in response to user operations under the control of the CPU 64.

[0063] The operation reception unit 62 is composed of input devices such as a keyboard, touch panel, and mouse, and receives operation input from the user and sends signals related to the received operation to the CPU 64.

[0064] The communication interface 63 is hardware for communicating via the network 90 described above, and is, for example, a wired or wireless LAN module.

[0065] The CPU 64 provides overall control over the retail terminal 60. The ROM 65 stores operational programs and various data executed by the CPU 64. The RAM 66 is used as the CPU 64's workspace. The auxiliary storage device 67 consists of storage devices such as HDDs and SSDs, and read / write non-volatile semiconductor memory. The auxiliary storage device 67 stores programs corresponding to applications (such as web browsers) for accessing the electronic receipt server 10 and the gamification server 50 via the network 90.

[0066] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 67 stores game result information 671, which is information about the game results provided to the member (user). When a member (user) plays the game attached to the electronic receipt, the game result (winning information) is stored as game result information 671 in the auxiliary storage device 67 of the retail terminal 60. The retail terminal 60 grants benefits to the member (user) based on the game result information 671. In addition, if the benefit is a product exchange benefit at the store, the store terminal 20 accesses the retail terminal 60 and checks the game result information to confirm whether a product exchange benefit is available, and then processes the product exchange.

[0067] As shown in Figure 11, the game result information 671 is information that associates the receipt ID of the electronic receipt on which the game was played, the member ID (or store member number), the game result (what prize it was and information about the prize won), and reward granting information indicating whether or not the reward based on the game result, such as product exchange rewards or points, has already been granted.

[0068] Note that the configurations of each device shown in Figures 2 to 7 are examples, and additional configurations may be added or some configurations may be omitted.

[0069] Furthermore, at least some of the electronic receipt server 10, store terminal 20, user terminal 30, electronic receipt member server 40, gamification server 50, and retail terminal 60 may be dedicated hardware. Also, at least some of the electronic receipt server 10, store terminal 20, user terminal 30, gamification server 50, and retail terminal 60 may be composed of general-purpose information processing devices (personal computers, smartphones, tablets, etc.).

[0070] Next, the operation of the electronic receipt system 100 will be explained. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the processing flow from payment to electronic receipt issuance in the electronic receipt system 100. In order to issue an electronic receipt when paying for purchased goods at a store, the user, who is a member of the store, must display the store membership number (a code corresponding to the store membership number) on the user terminal 30 by launching the store's electronic receipt application at the time of payment, and have the store terminal 20 read it. First, the CPU 34 of the user terminal 30 determines whether or not it has detected the user's operation to display the store membership number (a code corresponding to the store membership number) (step S11).

[0071] The store membership number can be issued, for example, when the user installs the store's electronic receipt application on the user terminal 30 or when the user registers as a member at the store (retail).

[0072] If the CPU 34 detects an operation to display the store membership number (step S11; Yes), it displays the store membership number and a code (barcode, 2D code) corresponding to the store membership number on the display 31 (step S12).

[0073] The store terminal 20 obtains the store membership number by reading the code corresponding to the store membership number displayed on the display 31 of the user terminal 30 using the code scanner 28, based on the operation of the user or a store employee (step S21).

[0074] Next, the store terminal 20 sends an electronic receipt member information inquiry request, including store member number information, to the electronic receipt member server 40 (step S22).

[0075] When the CPU 44 of the electronic receipt member server 40 receives an electronic receipt member information inquiry request from the store terminal 20, it refers to the auxiliary storage device 47 to determine whether or not member information 471 corresponding to the store member number included in the electronic receipt member information inquiry request has already been registered (step S31).

[0076] If member information 471 is not already registered (step S31; No), the CPU 44 executes a member registration process (step S32) in the auxiliary storage device 47 to register the user corresponding to the store member number received this time as a member of the electronic receipt system 100. In the member registration process, for example, a new member ID is issued and stored in the auxiliary storage device 47 as new member information 471, associated with the store member number received this time.

[0077] Thus, users who are members of the store do not need to register with the electronic receipt system 100. When they issue their first electronic receipt, a member ID for the electronic receipt system 100 is automatically issued, and they are registered with the electronic receipt system 100. This improves user convenience.

[0078] After the member registration process is completed, or if member information 471 has already been registered (step S31; Yes), the CPU 44 sends the member ID of the electronic receipt system 100 corresponding to the store member number to the store terminal 20 (step S33).

[0079] This process allows store membership numbers to be converted into member IDs for the electronic receipt system 100. This ensures that each member ID in the electronic receipt system 100 is uniquely determined, regardless of the store or retailer. Since the system uses this member ID to identify members and issue electronic receipts, the electronic receipt system 100 can be used by any store or retailer. Therefore, the versatility and convenience of the electronic receipt system 100 are improved.

[0080] Subsequently, the CPU 24 of the store terminal 20 processes the total amount of the product price identified from the barcode read by the code scanner 28 and the product prices entered by the operation reception unit 22 (step S23).

[0081] The payment processing involves subtracting the product price from the cash, credit card, or electronic money received from the user, calculating the change in the case of cash and displaying it on the display 21, storing the purchase information corresponding to this payment in the auxiliary storage device 27, and printing a receipt corresponding to this payment from the printer 29. In addition, the payment processing may also involve obtaining payment information (charge balance, payment method, etc.) corresponding to the store member number via the network 90 and performing the payment processing based on the payment information corresponding to the store member number.

[0082] When the payment processing is completed, the CPU 24 of the store terminal 20 sends the member information (the user's member ID and store member number received from the electronic receipt member server 40) and the purchase information for this payment to the electronic receipt server 10 (step S24).

[0083] When the CPU 14 of the electronic receipt server 10 receives member information (member ID, store member information) and purchase information from the store terminal 20, it issues a new receipt ID corresponding to the current payment and saves the current purchase information by adding the receipt ID and the current purchase information to the purchase history of the member purchase information 171 of the corresponding member ID (step S34).

[0084] The CPU 14 then sends an electronic receipt issuance notification, including the receipt ID, to the store terminal 20 and the user terminal 30, indicating that the purchase information has been successfully saved, that is, that an electronic receipt has been issued (step S35).

[0085] Upon receiving the electronic receipt issuance notification, the store terminal 20 can confirm that the electronic receipt has been issued via the display 21 or the like.

[0086] The user terminal 30 receives the receipt ID included in the electronic receipt issuance notification and stores the receipt ID in the auxiliary storage device 37 (step S13). By storing this receipt ID, the user can view the electronic receipt corresponding to the receipt ID on the user terminal 30 at any time.

[0087] Figure 13 shows the processing flow when an issued electronic receipt is displayed in the electronic receipt system 100. First, the CPU 34 of the user terminal 30 determines whether or not it has detected an operation to display an electronic receipt specifying predetermined purchase information (electronic receipt ID) via the operation reception unit 32 (step S14). For example, an electronic receipt application can display a list screen of purchase information on the display 31 of the user terminal 30, and a simplified display of purchase information on the list screen (purchase date and time, purchase store information, etc.) is linked to the electronic receipt, and selecting the simplified display of purchase information is the operation to display the corresponding electronic receipt.

[0088] If the CPU 34 detects an operation to display an electronic receipt (step S14; Yes), it sends the electronic receipt ID corresponding to the displayed electronic receipt to the electronic receipt server (step S15).

[0089] When the CPU 14 of the electronic receipt server 10 receives an electronic receipt ID from the user terminal 30, it executes an electronic receipt generation process to generate an electronic receipt (step S36).

[0090] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the electronic receipt generation process performed in step S36. In the electronic receipt generation process, the CPU 14 of the electronic receipt server 10 retrieves purchase information corresponding to the electronic receipt ID received from the user terminal 30 from the member purchase information 171 (step S101). The CPU 14 then embeds the retrieved purchase information into an electronic receipt template (for example, an HTML (HyperText Markup Language) file) corresponding to the store that sent the purchase information, and generates an electronic receipt (step S102). The electronic receipt generated here only needs to contain the same information as, for example, a paper receipt issued by the store.

[0091] Next, the CPU 14 refers to the game display condition information 172 and determines whether the purchase information and user information meet the game display conditions, thereby determining whether or not to display game link information that allows the game to be played on the electronic receipt (step S103).

[0092] In step S103, it is determined whether the game display conditions are met, for example, whether the total purchase amount indicated by the purchase information is above a predetermined threshold, or whether the purchase date and time are within a predetermined period from the current date and time. By using the period from the purchase date and time as a game display condition, it is possible to encourage the user to play the game. As mentioned above, the game display conditions can be any conditions set by the retail terminal 60.

[0093] If it is determined that the game link information should not be displayed (Step S104; No), the electronic receipt generation process is terminated. If it is determined that the game link information should be displayed (Step S104; Yes), the CPU 14 adds the game link information (an image or other link to running the game) to the generated electronic receipt (Step S105) and terminates the electronic receipt generation process.

[0094] After generating an electronic receipt in the electronic receipt generation process, the process returns to Figure 13, and the CPU 14 of the electronic receipt server 10 sends the electronic receipt information corresponding to the generated electronic receipt to the user terminal 30 (step S37).

[0095] When the CPU 34 of the user terminal 30 receives electronic receipt information from the electronic receipt server 10, it formats the electronic receipt to a size and format suitable for display on the user terminal 30's display 31 based on the electronic receipt information (step S16), and displays the formatted electronic receipt on the display 31 (step S17). Through this process, the user terminal 30 can view the electronic receipt.

[0096] Figure 15 shows the processing flow when a game is executed from an electronic receipt displayed in the electronic receipt system 100. First, the CPU 34 of the user terminal 30 determines whether or not an electronic receipt is currently being displayed on the display 31 (step S41).

[0097] If an electronic receipt is being displayed (step S41; Yes), the CPU 34 determines whether or not the operation reception unit 32 has detected a selection operation for game link information displayed on the electronic receipt (step S42).

[0098] Figure 16(A) shows an example of the display of an electronic receipt and a game link image on the display 31 of the user terminal 30. As shown in Figure 16(A), the electronic receipt displays information such as the store, date and time, purchased items, item price, payment amount, and payment method. Below the electronic receipt, a game link image 310 is displayed for playing a game, for example, one that says "Lottery Challenge!". When the CPU 34 detects a touch operation on the game link image 310, it determines that it has detected an operation to select game link information.

[0099] If the selection operation for game link information is detected (step S42; Yes), the CPU 34 sends a game acquisition request to the gamification server 50 (step S43). The game acquisition request may include member information (member ID or store member number for saving game results) and the game ID. The user ID and game ID may also be included in the game link string.

[0100] When the CPU 54 of the gamification server 50 receives a game acquisition request from the user terminal 30, it refers to the game information 571 corresponding to the game ID included in the game acquisition request and sends game execution data (web page, image, etc.) corresponding to the game type identified from the game information 571 to the user terminal 30 (step S51).

[0101] When the CPU 34 of the user terminal 30 receives game execution data from the gamification server 50, it displays the game screen on the display 31 based on the game execution data (step S44).

[0102] Then, the CPU 34 determines whether or not the operation reception unit 32 has detected a game execution operation (step S45).

[0103] Figure 16(B) shows an example of the game screen display on the user terminal 30's display 31. As shown in Figure 16(B), for example, the game screen displays a game execution link image 311 with a dart motif, and it is indicated that the game can be executed by touching the game execution link image 311. When the CPU 34 detects a touch operation on the game execution link image 311, for example, it determines that a game execution operation has been detected.

[0104] If the CPU 34 detects a game execution operation (step S45; Yes), it sends a request to the gamification server 50 to retrieve the game result (step S46).

[0105] When the CPU 54 of the gamification server 50 receives a request to obtain game results from the user terminal 30, it determines the game result based on the lottery probability, winning limit, etc., indicated by the game information 571 corresponding to the game ID (step S52), and transmits the determined game result to the user terminal 30 and the retail terminal 60 (step S53). The game result transmitted to the retail terminal 60 includes the member ID of the user who played the game.

[0106] When the CPU 34 of the user terminal 30 receives game results from the gamification server 50, it displays a game result screen corresponding to the game result on the display 31 (step S47). In this way, the user can view an electronic receipt on the user terminal 30 and play the game.

[0107] Figures 16(C) and (D) show examples of the game result screen displayed on the user terminal 30's display 31. If the game result is a third-place win and the prize is points, as shown in Figure 16(C), for example, a game result image 312 indicating a third-place win is displayed, along with the number of points earned. If the game result is a first-place win and the prize is a product exchange voucher, as shown in Figure 16(D), for example, a game result image 313 indicating a first-place win is displayed, along with a message indicating that a product exchange voucher has been won.

[0108] When the CPU 64 of the retail terminal 60 receives game results from the gamification server 50, it stores them in the auxiliary storage device 67 as game result information 671, associated with the receipt ID and member ID (step S61). This allows the administrator of the retail terminal 60 to check the game results and execute the process of providing rewards to the user according to the game results.

[0109] As for the method of granting rewards from the retail terminal 60 to a user, if the reward is points, for example, the retail terminal 60 can perform a process to add points corresponding to the reward to the user's point information it holds, and notify the corresponding user's user terminal 30 of the result of the point addition. Then, information indicating that the reward has been specifically granted can be stored in the corresponding game result information 671.

[0110] Furthermore, if the reward is a product exchange voucher, the user displays the product exchange voucher screen on the display 31 of the user terminal 30, and the store terminal 20 obtains information about the product exchange voucher. The store terminal 20 transmits the information about the product exchange voucher to the retail terminal 60, which searches for game result information 671 corresponding to the received product exchange voucher information. If there is information about an unredeemed product exchange voucher, it notifies the store terminal 20 that the product can be exchanged. This allows the user to receive the reward of the product exchange voucher at the store. When the retail terminal 60 receives notification from the store terminal 20 that the product exchange has been completed, it only needs to store information indicating that the specific reward has been granted in the corresponding game result information 671.

[0111] As described above, in the electronic receipt system 100 and electronic receipt server 10 of the above embodiment, if the purchase information and user information satisfy the game display conditions defined in the game display condition information 172, game link information that allows the user to play a game can be displayed on the electronic receipt. When the user views the electronic receipt on the user terminal 30, if the game link information is displayed, the user can play the game and receive a reward as a result of the game. Therefore, this is more interesting than simply providing a reward, and the provision of electronic receipts can be made more engaging. Thus, the electronic receipt system 100 and electronic receipt server 10 of the above embodiment can suitably provide electronic receipts.

[0112] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and applications are possible, and further features may be added. For example, the processing content and determination methods (e.g., game display determination) shown in the embodiments above, and the data format of the information exchanged between each component are examples, and any other configuration is acceptable as long as it can achieve the same functions and effects as the embodiments described above. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in the embodiments above are essential, and some may be omitted.

[0113] In the above embodiment, the electronic receipt server 10, the electronic receipt member server 40, and the gamification server 50 were separate servers, but the functions of two or more servers may be consolidated into one. For example, the electronic receipt server 10, the electronic receipt member server 40, and the gamification server 50 in this embodiment may be configured as a single electronic receipt management server. Doing so simplifies the system configuration and facilitates the transmission and reception of information. In addition, at least some of the data stored in the auxiliary storage device may be stored in an external storage device. Furthermore, in the electronic receipt member server 40, the store member number was converted into a member ID in the electronic receipt system 100, and purchase information (electronic receipts) was managed based on the member ID. However, without providing an electronic receipt member server 40, the store member number may be used directly as the member ID in the electronic receipt system 100, and purchase information (electronic receipts) may be managed based on the store member number.

[0114] The electronic receipt shown in Figure 16(A) is just an example; any receipt that allows users to verify purchase information, like a regular receipt, will suffice. Furthermore, the game link image for running the game shown in Figure 16(A), the game images shown in Figures 16(B) to (D), and the example display of the game results screen are all examples; any display is acceptable as long as it enables the game to be run as a result of displaying the electronic receipt and shows the game results after the game is run.

[0115] Furthermore, the types of games provided by the electronic receipt system 100 and the gamification server 50 are not limited to darts-themed lottery games, as shown in Figures 16(B) to (D), but may include other games such as puzzles, crosswords, and quizzes.

[0116] Furthermore, multiple game display conditions may be set, which are the conditions for displaying a game link on the electronic receipt, and the type of game, the probability of winning, etc. may differ depending on the type and number of game display conditions that are met.

[0117] Furthermore, the rewards given to users as a result of games provided by the electronic receipt system 100 and the gamification server 50 are not limited to points or product exchange vouchers, but may also include images, music, stamps that can be exchanged for products upon accumulation, discount coupons, etc.

[0118] Furthermore, electronic receipts are not limited to being viewed through an electronic receipt application; they may also be made viewable by accessing a specific URL via a web browser.

[0119] The electronic receipt application's menu screen may allow users to check the conditions for displaying the game on the electronic receipt. Furthermore, for electronic receipts that do not meet the conditions for displaying the game and therefore do not display the game link image 310, the application may display the conditions for displaying the game (e.g., the purchase amount required for the game to be displayed). This can encourage user purchases.

[0120] In the above embodiment, "electronic receipt" primarily refers to purchase information that can be displayed on the user terminal 30. However, "electronic receipt" may also refer to purchase information exchanged within the electronic receipt system, or to services provided by the electronic receipt system. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 10 Electronic receipt server 20 store terminals 30 User terminals 40 Electronic receipt member server 50 Gamification Servers 60 retail terminals 90 Networks 100 Electronic receipt systems

Claims

1. A purchase information storage means that stores product purchase information and purchase information identifiers in association, A receiving means that receives an electronic receipt acquisition request including the purchase information identifier from the terminal of a user who is the purchaser of the product, When an electronic receipt acquisition request is received, a generation means acquires the purchase information corresponding to the purchase information identifier included in the electronic receipt acquisition request from the purchase information storage means and generates electronic receipt information based on the purchase information, The system comprises a transmission means for transmitting the electronic receipt information generated by the generation means to the terminal that sent the electronic receipt acquisition request, The generating means is If the predetermined conditions are met, the electronic receipt information is generated with a game link that allows the player to select to play the game. If the predetermined conditions are not met, the electronic receipt information is generated to electronically display the predetermined conditions on the electronic receipt corresponding to the electronic receipt information. An electronic receipt management server characterized by the following features.

2. The aforementioned predetermined conditions include the purchase date and time indicated by the electronic receipt information being within a predetermined period from the current date and time. The electronic receipt management server according to feature 1.

3. The electronic receipt management server according to claim 1 or 2, An electronic receipt system comprising a game provision server capable of providing game information, The game provision server includes a game information transmission means that, when a terminal that has received the electronic receipt information selects the game link contained in the electronic receipt information, transmits the game information, which is data corresponding to a game that the user can play, to the terminal. An electronic receipt system characterized by the following features.

4. The game information transmitted by the game information transmission means via the network can be configured. The aforementioned game provision server is When the game information transmission means receives game execution information indicating that a game has been played based on the game information transmitted by the game information transmission means, the determination means determines the game result, The system further comprises a bonus information transmission means that transmits the game result determined by the determination means to the source of the game information. The electronic receipt system according to feature 3.

5. The electronic receipt management server, Store product purchase information and purchase information identifiers in association. The system receives an electronic receipt acquisition request containing the purchase information identifier from the user's terminal, who is the purchaser of the product. When the aforementioned electronic receipt acquisition request is received, the purchase information corresponding to the purchase information identifier included in the electronic receipt acquisition request is acquired, and electronic receipt information is generated based on the purchase information. The generated electronic receipt information is transmitted to the terminal that sent the electronic receipt acquisition request. If the predetermined conditions are met, the electronic receipt information is generated with a game link that allows the player to select to play the game. If the predetermined conditions are not met, the electronic receipt information is generated to electronically display the predetermined conditions on the electronic receipt corresponding to the electronic receipt information. An electronic receipt management method characterized by the following features.

6. Computers, Purchase information storage means for storing product purchase information and purchase information identifiers in association, Receiving means for receiving an electronic receipt acquisition request including the purchase information identifier from the terminal of a user who is the purchaser of the product, When an electronic receipt acquisition request is received, a generation means acquires the purchase information corresponding to the purchase information identifier included in the electronic receipt acquisition request from the purchase information storage means and generates electronic receipt information based on the purchase information. The generating means functions as a transmitting means that transmits the electronic receipt information generated by the generating means to the terminal that sent the electronic receipt acquisition request. The generating means is If the predetermined conditions are met, the electronic receipt information is generated with a game link that allows the player to select to play the game. If the predetermined conditions are not met, the electronic receipt information is generated to electronically display the predetermined conditions on the electronic receipt corresponding to the electronic receipt information. A program characterized by the following features.

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