Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that can perform appropriate bill split processing.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus 1 includes: an order reception unit 123 that receives order information corresponding to a user identifier and including a commodity identifier from any of users among a group including two or more users; a user number acquisition unit 132 that acquires the number of users as objects of bill split; a payment amount calculation unit 133 that acquires a bill split amount obtained by dividing price information pairing with the commodity identifier included in the order information by the number of user with respect to commodities for bill split, where there are commodities for bill split and commodities not for bill split according to commodities identified by the commodity identifier included in the order information, adds a bill split amount to a payment amount of each of two or more users, and adds the price information pairing with the commodity identifier included in the order information to the payment amount of one user with respect to the commodities not for bill split, so as to calculate the payment amount of each of the two or more users; and a payment amount output unit 141 that outputs the payment amount of each of the two or more users.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to, for example, an information processing apparatus that outputs the amount to be paid by each person considering the sharing of expenses for two or more users who have ordered goods in a restaurant or the like.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been a technology of a sharing method that requires only the organizer to install a sharing app and bill the participants for the shared expenses, and other participants do not need to install the sharing app (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art, when a plurality of people order goods, appropriate sharing processing cannot be performed.

[0005] More specifically, for example, it was not possible to calculate flexible payment amounts for each user, such as each user paying for beverages (e.g., a pitcher of beer) in a izakaya and sharing the cost of food such as a pot.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first information processing device of the present invention comprises: a product information storage unit that stores two or more product information items having a product identifier and price information; an order receiving unit that receives order information corresponding to a user identifier, which has a product identifier, from any user in a group of two or more users; a user count acquisition unit that acquires the number of users in the group who are subject to splitting the bill; a payment amount calculation unit that, depending on the product identified by the product identifier in the order information, determines whether the product is to be split or not, and for products to be split, obtains a split amount by dividing the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the order receiving unit by the number of users, and adds the split amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users; and for products not to be split, adds the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the order receiving unit to the payment amount of one user, and calculates the payment amount for each of the two or more users; and a payment amount output unit that outputs the payment amounts for each of the two or more users calculated by the payment amount calculation unit.

[0007] With this configuration, it is possible to distinguish between cases where the bill is split and cases where it is not, depending on the product, and to obtain each person's payment amount, thereby enabling appropriate bill splitting.

[0008] Furthermore, the information processing device of the second invention, compared to the first invention, is an information processing device in which the payment amount calculation unit obtains price information paired with the product identifier in the order information from the product information storage unit, and if the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information is information indicating split payment, obtains the split payment amount by dividing the price information by the number of users, and adds the split payment amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users, and if the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information is information indicating split payment but the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information is not information indicating split payment, it adds it to the payment amount of the user identified by the user identifier corresponding to the order information received by the order receiving unit, and calculates the payment amount of each of the two or more users.

[0009] With this configuration, it is possible to distinguish between cases where the bill is split and cases where it is not, depending on the product, and to obtain each person's payment amount, thereby enabling appropriate bill splitting.

[0010] Furthermore, the information processing device of this third invention differs from the second invention in that product information has a product type identifier, and split-bill information is associated with the product type identifier.

[0011] With this configuration, it is possible to distinguish between cases where the bill is split and cases where it is not, depending on the type of product, and to obtain each person's payment amount, thereby enabling appropriate bill splitting.

[0012] Furthermore, the information processing device of this fourth invention is an information processing device in which the split-bill information is associated with one or more product identifiers, compared to the second invention.

[0013] With this configuration, it is possible to distinguish between cases where the bill is split and cases where it is not, depending on the product, and to obtain each person's payment amount, thereby enabling appropriate bill splitting.

[0014] Furthermore, the information processing device of the fifth invention is an information processing device that, in relation to any one of the first to fourth inventions, further comprises a bill splitting information receiving unit that receives bill splitting information in a manner corresponding to one or more product identifiers, and a bill splitting information storage unit that stores the bill splitting information received by the bill splitting information receiving unit in a manner corresponding to one or more product identifiers.

[0015] This configuration allows users to customize which items to split the bill according to their preferences.

[0016] Furthermore, the information processing device of the sixth invention is an information processing device that, with respect to any one of the first to fifth inventions, includes a payment amount calculation unit which is a mode receiving unit which receives a mode identifier which identifies one of two or more split-payment modes, and a payment amount calculation unit which calculates the payment amount for each of two or more users according to the mode identifier received by the mode receiving unit.

[0017] This configuration allows for the provision of two or more bill-splitting modes to the user, enabling more appropriate bill-splitting processing.

[0018] Furthermore, the information processing device of the seventh invention is an information processing device that, with respect to any one of the first to sixth inventions, includes a mode receiving unit that receives a non-split-bill mode which is a mode in which the bill is not split, and a payment amount calculation unit which, when the mode receiving unit receives a non-split-bill mode, does not calculate the payment amount for each of the two or more users, but instead obtains price information that is paired with the product identifiers of each of the two or more order pieces of information received by the order receiving unit, and calculates a payment amount by adding up the two or more price pieces of information.

[0019] This configuration allows users to choose between a mode where they split the bill and a mode where they do not, enabling the system to output an appropriate payment amount.

[0020] Furthermore, the information processing device of the eighth invention is an information processing device that further comprises a receipt component that generates receipts for each of two or more users, each of which is a receipt showing the payment amounts for each of two or more users calculated by a payment amount calculation unit, and a receipt output unit that outputs each of the two or more receipts generated by the receipt component.

[0021] With this configuration, when splitting the bill, receipts can be printed for two or more users.

[0022] Furthermore, the information processing device of the ninth invention further comprises, in addition to any one of the first to eighth inventions, an absence information receiving unit that receives absence information indicating that a user is leaving; a user count acquisition unit that acquires a second number of users after the absence information receiving unit has received the absence information; and a payment amount calculation unit that calculates the payment amount for two or more users using the number of users acquired by the user count acquisition unit for order information before the absence information receiving unit receives the absence information, and calculates the payment amount for each user corresponding to the second number of users using the second number of users acquired by the user count acquisition unit for order information after the absence information receiving unit has received the absence information.

[0023] This configuration allows for proper bill splitting even if a user has already left the table.

[0024] Further, the information processing apparatus of the tenth invention further includes a settlement instruction receiving unit that receives settlement instructions from two or more terminal devices for any one of the first to ninth inventions, and a settlement processing unit that performs settlement processing in response to the reception of the settlement instructions. The payment amount calculation unit is an information processing apparatus that calculates a payment amount including the fractional amount in the case of sharing the cost for the user who makes the last settlement.

[0025] With such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately process the fractional amount in sharing the cost.

Effect of the Invention

[0026] According to the information processing apparatus of the present invention, when a plurality of people order goods, appropriate sharing of the cost can be performed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] Conceptual diagram of the information system A in Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Block diagram of the information system A [Figure 3] Block diagram of the information processing apparatus 1 constituting the information system A [Figure 4] Flowchart for explaining an operation example of the information processing apparatus 1 [Figure 5] Flowchart for explaining an example of the payment amount calculation process [Figure 6] Flowchart for explaining an example of the receipt configuration process [Figure 7] Flowchart for explaining an operation example of the terminal device 2 [Figure 8] Diagram showing the product management table [Figure 9] Diagram showing the user management table [Figure 10] Diagram showing the order management table [Figure 11] Diagram showing an example of the screen [Figure 12] Diagram showing an example of the screen [Figure 13] Diagram showing an example of the screen [Figure 14] Figure showing an example of the same screen. [Figure 15] Figure showing an example of the same screen. [Figure 16] Figure showing an example of the same screen. [Figure 17] Overview of the computer system [Figure 18] Block diagram of the computer system [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The embodiments of the information processing device, etc., will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments, components that are denoted by the same reference numerals perform the same operation, and therefore, their description may be omitted again.

[0029] (Embodiment 1) In this embodiment, an information system is described that includes an information processing device that calculates and outputs the payment amounts for two or more people, such that some of the products are split among two or more people, and the remaining products are paid for by one user (e.g., the person placing the order). For example, whether or not the payment is split is managed for each type of product. Also, for example, whether or not the payment is split is managed for each product.

[0030] Furthermore, in this embodiment, we will describe an information system that includes an information processing device that allows users to customize the items they split the bill for.

[0031] Furthermore, in this embodiment, we will describe an information system that includes an information processing device with two or more bill-splitting modes.

[0032] Furthermore, in this embodiment, we will describe an information system that includes an information processing device that also has a mode in which the bill is not split.

[0033] Furthermore, in this embodiment, we will describe an information system that includes an information processing device capable of outputting receipts for each person when the bill is split.

[0034] Furthermore, this embodiment describes an information system equipped with an information processing device that can appropriately handle splitting the bill even when some users have already left and additional orders are placed by the remaining users.

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, we will describe an information system that includes an information processing device capable of processing the payment of fractional amounts by the person making the final payment.

[0036] In this embodiment, the association of information X with information Y means that information Y can be obtained from information X, or information X can be obtained from information Y, and the method of association is not limited. Information X and information Y may be linked, may exist in the same buffer, may information X be contained in information Y, or information Y may be contained in information X, and so on.

[0037] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of information system A in this embodiment. Information system A comprises an information processing device 1 and one or more terminal devices 2.

[0038] Information processing device 1 is a device that receives order information and processes it for the user to pay the fee. This payment includes splitting the bill. Information processing device 1 is typically a server, such as a cloud server or ASP server, but the type is not limited.

[0039] Terminal device 2 is a terminal used by the user to place an order. Terminal device 2 can be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet, a smartphone, etc., but it can also be an ordering terminal installed at a table in the store, and the type is not limited. The store is preferably an eatery such as an izakaya or restaurant, but the type is not limited.

[0040] Figure 2 is a block diagram of information system A in this embodiment. Figure 3 is a block diagram of information processing device 1 that constitutes information system A.

[0041] The information processing device 1 comprises a storage unit 11, a receiving unit 12, a processing unit 13, and an output unit 14. The storage unit 11 comprises a product information storage unit 111 and a user information storage unit 112. The receiving unit 12 comprises a mode receiving unit 121, a split bill information receiving unit 122, an order receiving unit 123, a departure information receiving unit 124, and a payment instruction receiving unit 125. The processing unit 13 comprises a split bill information storage unit 131, a user count acquisition unit 132, a payment amount calculation unit 133, a payment processing unit 134, and a receipt configuration unit 135. The output unit 14 comprises a payment amount output unit 141 and a receipt output unit 142.

[0042] The terminal device 2 includes a terminal storage unit 21, a terminal receiving unit 22, a terminal processing unit 23, a terminal transmission unit 24, a terminal receiving unit 25, and a terminal output unit 26.

[0043] The storage unit 11, which constitutes the information processing device 1, stores various types of information. These types of information include, for example, product information (described later), user information (described later), number of users, number of second users, and number of payment users.

[0044] The number of users is the number of users in a group who will be splitting the bill. Preferably, the number of users is the number of people in the group, but it may be less. For example, in a welcome party for new employees, the number of users may be the number of people in the group minus the number of new employees. Preferably, the number of users is paired with a group identifier. A group identifier is information that identifies a group. Examples of group identifiers include a group ID and a group name.

[0045] The second user count is the number of users in a group minus the number of people who left the meeting midway. Note that "people who left midway" refers to those who left the meeting midway but completed the payment process. The second user count is associated with the group identifier.

[0046] The number of payment users is the number of users who have completed a payment within a given group. This number is associated with a group identifier.

[0047] The product information storage unit 111 stores information for two or more products. Product information refers to information about the products that a user orders. Product information usually includes a product identifier and price information. It is preferable for product information to include a product type identifier. A product identifier is information that identifies a product. For example, a product identifier may be a product ID or product name. Price information is information that identifies the price, and may be referred to as price as appropriate. A product type identifier is information that identifies the type of product. For example, a product type identifier may be a product type ID or product type name. For example, a product type identifier may be "food" or "beverage". For example, a product type identifier may be "salad," "hot pot," "meat," or "fish."

[0048] The product information in the product information storage unit 111 includes, for example, information on splitting the bill.

[0049] Split-bill information is information used to identify items that are to be split. Split-bill information is, for example, information indicating whether an ordered item is to be split or not. If it is to be split, it is, for example, "1", and if it is not to be split, it is, for example, "0". The association of split-bill information with item information can also be done by associating it with the item type identifier that the item information has. Alternatively, the association of split-bill information with item information can also be done by storing the item identifier of an item that is to be split in storage unit 11, or by storing the item type identifier that identifies the type of item that is to be split in storage unit 11, etc. In any case, it is sufficient that information is managed that allows for the determination of whether or not an item will be to be split when an item is ordered. Furthermore, split-bill information may also be provided in the split-bill mode described later.

[0050] The user information storage unit 112 stores one or more user information entries. User information is information about a user who orders a product. User information includes, for example, a user identifier, a group identifier, and order information.

[0051] A user identifier is information that identifies a user. Examples of user identifiers include the user ID, the terminal ID of the terminal device 2 used by the user, telephone number, email address, and name. A group identifier is information that identifies the group to which the user belongs. Examples of group identifiers include the group ID and group name. It is preferable that the group identifier be associated with the split-bill mode described later. Alternatively, the group identifier may also be associated with the non-split-bill mode described later.

[0052] Order information refers to information about an order placed by a user. For example, order information may include the product identifier of the ordered item, the price of the ordered item, the quantity of the ordered item, and the date and time of the order.

[0053] The receiving unit 12 receives various instructions and information. These instructions and information include, for example, mode identifiers, split bill information, order information, departure information (described later), payment instructions (described later), the number of users subject to split bill, and user information. The instructions and information received by the receiving unit 12 are usually associated with user identifiers.

[0054] The mode receiving unit 121 receives a mode identifier that identifies one of two or more split-payment modes. The two or more split-payment modes include, for example, a first mode in which all items are split, and a second mode in which only some items are split, and the other items are paid for by one user (e.g., the person who placed the order). The second mode is, for example, a mode in which food items are split, and the person who placed the order pays for beverages. In the second mode, it is preferable that the person who pays for the items that are not split is the user corresponding to the terminal device 2 that transmitted the order information, but it may be another user. A user identifier that identifies such other user may be received and stored in pairs with a group identifier, or the user identifier may be included in the order information.

[0055] The mode receiving unit 121 receives, for example, a non-split-the-bill mode. Non-split-the-bill mode is information indicating a mode in which the bill is not split.

[0056] The split-bill information receiving unit 122 receives split-bill information in a manner that corresponds to one or more product identifiers. The split-bill information receiving unit 122 receives split-bill information from the terminal device 2. The split-bill information received by the split-bill information receiving unit 122 may be in split-bill mode. The split-bill information receiving unit 122 receives split-bill information that is customized for each group.

[0057] The order receiving unit 123 receives order information from one or more users. It is preferable to receive order information from the terminal device 2 used by the user. However, the order receiving unit 123 may also receive order information from a server (not shown) that has received order information from the terminal device 2. The order information received by the order receiving unit 123 corresponds to the user identifier of the user who placed the order. The order information usually includes a product identifier. The order information also includes, for example, a quantity. The order information may also include split payment information. Note that the split payment information may be in split payment mode.

[0058] The departure information receiving unit 124 receives departure information. The departure information receiving unit 124 usually receives departure information from the terminal device 2. Departure information is information indicating that a user is leaving. Departure information may also be a payment instruction from a single user.

[0059] The payment instruction receiving unit 125 receives payment instructions from two or more terminal devices. These payment instructions are associated with a user identifier.

[0060] The settlement instruction receiving unit 125 may also receive settlement instructions within a group. Such settlement instructions are associated with a group identifier.

[0061] The processing unit 13 performs various processes. These various processes include, for example, the processes performed by the split payment information storage unit 131, the user number acquisition unit 132, the payment amount calculation unit 133, the settlement processing unit 134, and the receipt composition unit 135.

[0062] For example, the processing unit 13 stores the order information received by the order receiving unit 123 in the storage unit 11, associating it with a user identifier. It is preferable for the processing unit 13 to store the order information in the user information storage unit 112, associating it with a user identifier.

[0063] The bill splitting information storage unit 131 stores the bill splitting information received by the bill splitting information receiving unit 122 in the storage unit 11 in a manner that corresponds to one or more product identifiers. It is preferable for the bill splitting information storage unit 131 to store the bill splitting information by associating it with a group identifier that is paired with a user identifier corresponding to the received bill splitting information. The manner that corresponds to a product identifier means that the information is directly or indirectly associated with a product identifier. The meaning of the manner that corresponds to a product identifier is that it is sufficient to identify the products to be split. The manner that corresponds to a product identifier may also correspond to a product type identifier. The manner that corresponds to a product identifier may also be a bill splitting mode that corresponds to a group identifier.

[0064] The user count acquisition unit 132 acquires the number of users who are subject to splitting the bill. The user count acquisition unit 132 acquires the number of users, associating it with a user identifier or group identifier.

[0065] The user count acquisition unit 132 acquires, for example, the number of users received by the receiving unit 12. The user count acquisition unit 132 acquires, for example, the number of users obtained by uniquely processing the user identifiers associated with a group identifier, and the number obtained by uniquely processing the user identifiers associated with the order information received by the receiving unit 12.

[0066] It is preferable for the user count acquisition unit 132 to acquire the second user count after the absence information receiving unit 124 has received absence information. When the absence information receiving unit 124 receives one absence information corresponding to a group identifier, the user count acquisition unit 132 acquires, for example, the second user count by subtracting 1 from the number of users corresponding to that group identifier (which may also be called the first user count).

[0067] The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the payment amount for each group. It is preferable that the payment amount calculation unit 133 may or may not split the bill depending on the product identified by the product identifier in the order information.

[0068] In other words, the payment amount calculation unit 133 determines which items to split the cost of and which not to split the cost of, depending on the item identified by the item identifier in the order information. For items to be split, the order receiving unit 123 obtains the split amount by dividing the price information paired with the item identifier in the received order information by the number of users, and adds this split amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users. For items not to be split, the payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the price information paired with the item identifier in the received order information to the payment amount of one user. Through the above process, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates the payment amount for each of the two or more users. Here, it is preferable that one user is the user identified by the user identifier corresponding to the order information received by the order receiving unit 123, but it may be any other user. Another user is, for example, a user identified by the user identifier that identifies the payer included in the received order information. Furthermore, other users are identified, for example, by a user identifier that identifies the payer, paired with a group identifier corresponding to the received order information.

[0069] The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains price information from the product information storage unit 111 that corresponds to the product identifier in the received order information. The payment amount calculation unit 133 determines whether the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information indicates a split payment. If there is information indicating a split payment, the payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains a split payment amount by dividing the obtained price information by the number of users. The payment amount calculation unit 133 then adds this split payment amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users. If the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information does not indicate a split payment, the payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the obtained price information to the payment amount of one user. For example, through the above process, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates the payment amount for each of the two or more users.

[0070] The payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates the payment amount for each of the two or more users according to the mode identifier received by the mode receiving unit 121. The mode identifier is, for example, first mode, second mode, or non-split payment mode.

[0071] When the mode receiving unit 121 receives the mode identifier "non-split payment mode", the payment amount calculation unit 133 does not calculate the payment amount for each of the two or more users, but instead obtains the price information that is paired with the product identifier in each of the two or more order pieces of information received by the order receiving unit 123, and calculates a payment amount by adding up the two or more price pieces of information. This payment amount is the payment amount for the group identified by the group identifier that is paired with the user identifier corresponding to the order information received by the order receiving unit 123.

[0072] The payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates the payment amount for each of two or more users, for example, using the number of users (first user count) obtained by the user count acquisition unit 132 for order information before the departure information receiving unit 124 receives departure information. Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates the payment amount for each user corresponding to the second user count, for example, using the second user count obtained by the user count acquisition unit 132 for order information after the departure information receiving unit 124 receives departure information. The second user count is usually the first user count minus the number of departure information received by the departure information receiving unit 124.

[0073] When splitting the bill results in fractional amounts, it is preferable for the payment amount calculation unit 133 to calculate the payment amount including the fractional amount for one user in the group. It is also preferable for the payment amount calculation unit 133 to calculate the payment amount including the fractional amount for splitting the bill for the user who makes the final payment in the group. In other words, it is preferable for the payment amount calculation unit 133 to obtain the payment amount including the fractional amount when the number of payment instructions received corresponding to the group identifier received by the payment instruction receiving unit 125 matches the number of users paired with the group identifier corresponding to the payment instruction received by the payment instruction receiving unit 125. Alternatively, the payment amount calculation unit 133 may, for example, randomly select one user in the group and calculate the payment amount including the fractional amount for splitting the bill for that user. Alternatively, the payment amount calculation unit 133 may, for example, calculate the payment amount including the fractional amount for splitting the bill for one user who has received an instruction from any of the users in the group. In short, the method of determining which user pays the fractional amount is irrelevant.

[0074] The settlement processing unit 134 performs settlement processing in response to the receipt of a settlement instruction. Settlement processing refers to any processing related to settlement. Examples of settlement processing include sending a user identifier and the payment amount obtained by the payment amount calculation unit 133 to a settlement server (not shown), sending the payment amount to a cash register terminal (not shown), and deducting the payment amount from the prepayment amount information stored in pairs with the user identifier.

[0075] The receipt component 135 is a receipt displaying the payment amounts for two or more users calculated by the payment amount calculation unit 133, and constitutes a receipt for each of the two or more users. The receipt contains information including the payment amount for that user. The receipt includes, for example, a collection of information about the purchased goods.

[0076] The receipt component 135, for example, generates a receipt for each user that includes the payment amounts of two or more user identifiers paired with a group identifier. In other words, it is preferable that the receipt for a single user generated by the receipt component 135 includes the payment amounts of other users in the same group.

[0077] The output unit 14 outputs various types of information. These types of information include, for example, the payment amount and the receipt.

[0078] Here, "output" usually refers to transmission to terminal device 2, but it is a concept that also includes display on a screen, projection using a projector, printing with a printer, sound output, transmission to other devices (not shown), storage on a recording medium, and delivery of processing results to other processing devices or other programs.

[0079] The payment amount output unit 141 outputs the payment amounts for each of the two or more users calculated by the payment amount calculation unit 133. It is preferable for the payment amount output unit 141 to transmit the payment amounts to the terminal device 2.

[0080] The receipt output unit 142 outputs each of the two or more receipts configured by the receipt configuration unit 135. It is preferable for the receipt output unit 142 to transmit the receipts to the terminal device 2. Since the receipt includes the payment amount, when the receipt output unit 142 outputs a receipt, for example, the payment amount output unit 141 does not need to output the payment amount.

[0081] The terminal storage unit 21, which constitutes the terminal device 2, stores various types of information. These types of information include, for example, a user identifier.

[0082] The terminal reception unit 22 receives various types of information or instructions. These types of information or instructions include, for example, mode identifiers, split bill information, order information, departure information, and payment instructions.

[0083] In this context, "reception" typically refers to the reception of information transmitted via wired or wireless communication lines, or information input from input devices such as keyboards, mice, and touch panels. However, it may also encompass the reception of information read from recording media such as optical discs, magnetic discs, and semiconductor memory.

[0084] Any means of inputting information or instructions is acceptable, such as a touch panel, keyboard, mouse, or menu screen.

[0085] The terminal processing unit 23 performs various processes. These processes include, for example, converting instructions and information received by the terminal receiving unit 22 into instructions and information for a data structure to be transmitted. Other processes include, for example, converting information received by the terminal receiving unit 25 into information for a data structure to be output.

[0086] The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits various instructions and information. These instructions and information include, for example, a mode identifier, split bill information, order information, departure information, and payment instructions.

[0087] The terminal receiving unit 25 receives various types of information. These types of information include, for example, payment amounts and receipts.

[0088] The terminal output unit 26 outputs various types of information. These types of information include, for example, the payment amount and the receipt.

[0089] Here, "output" usually refers to displaying on a screen, but it may also be a concept that includes projection using a projector, printing with a printer, storage on a recording medium, and transfer of processing results to other processing devices or other programs.

[0090] The storage unit 11, product information storage unit 111, user information storage unit 112, and terminal storage unit 21 are preferably made of non-volatile recording media, but can also be made of volatile recording media.

[0091] The process by which information is stored in the storage unit 11, etc. is not relevant. For example, information may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc. via a recording medium, information transmitted via a communication line, etc. may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc., or information input via an input device may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc.

[0092] The receiving unit 12, mode receiving unit 121, split bill information receiving unit 122, order receiving unit 123, departure information receiving unit 124, payment instruction receiving unit 125, and terminal receiving unit 25 are preferably implemented by wireless or wired communication means, but may also be implemented by means of receiving broadcasts, device drivers for input means such as touch panels and keyboards, or control software for menu screens.

[0093] The processing unit 13, the bill splitting information storage unit 131, the user count acquisition unit 132, the payment amount calculation unit 133, the settlement processing unit 134, and the receipt composition unit 135 can typically be implemented using a processor, memory, etc. The processing procedures of the processing unit 13, etc., are usually implemented in software, and this software is recorded on a recording medium such as ROM. However, it may also be implemented in hardware (dedicated circuitry). The processor can be a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc., and the type is not limited.

[0094] The output unit 14, payment amount output unit 141, receipt output unit 142, and terminal transmission unit 24 are usually implemented by wireless or wired communication means, but may also be implemented by broadcasting means.

[0095] The terminal reception unit 22 can be implemented using device drivers for input means such as touch panels and keyboards, or control software for menu screens, etc.

[0096] The terminal output unit 26 may or may not be considered to include output devices such as a display or speakers. The terminal output unit 26 can be implemented using driver software for an output device, or a driver software for an output device and an output device.

[0097] Next, we will explain an example of the operation of information system A. First, we will explain an example of the operation of information processing device 1 using the flowchart in Figure 4.

[0098] (Step S401) The mode receiving unit 121 determines whether or not it has received a mode identifier from the terminal device 2. If a mode identifier is received, the process proceeds to step S402; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S403. Note that such a mode identifier corresponds to a user identifier.

[0099] (Step S402) The processing unit 13 stores the mode identifier received in step S401 in the storage unit 11, associating it with the group identifier that is paired with the user identifier corresponding to the mode identifier. The process returns to step S401.

[0100] The user identifier is stored in the user information storage unit 112, associated with the group identifier. Furthermore, a mode identifier is associated with the group identifier, and after a user's payment is completed in the split payment mode identified by the mode identifier, the payment amount is calculated for the other users in the group in the split payment mode identified by the mode identifier.

[0101] (Step S403) The bill splitting information receiving unit 122 determines whether or not it has received bill splitting information from the terminal device 2. If bill splitting information has been received, the unit proceeds to step S404; otherwise, it proceeds to step S405. This bill splitting information is associated with a user identifier. The bill splitting information includes, for example, "information that identifies items that will not be split" and "information that identifies items that will be split."

[0102] (Step S404) The bill splitting information storage unit 131 stores the bill splitting information received in step S403 in the storage unit 11, associating it with the group identifier that is paired with the user identifier. Return to step S401.

[0103] (Step S405) The order receiving unit 123 determines whether or not it has received order information from the terminal device 2. If order information has been received, the unit proceeds to step S406; otherwise, it proceeds to step S407. This order information is associated with a user identifier.

[0104] (Step S406) The processing unit 13 stores the order information received in step S405 in the storage unit 11, associating it with the user identifier. The process returns to step S401. Note that the order information associated with the user identifier is usually also associated with the group identifier.

[0105] (Step S407) The departure information receiving unit 124 determines whether or not it has received departure information from the terminal device 2. If departure information is received, the unit proceeds to step S408; otherwise, it proceeds to step S413. This departure information is associated with a user identifier. Departure information usually also includes payment instructions. Departure information may also be payment instructions.

[0106] (Step S408) The payment amount calculation unit 133 performs the payment amount calculation process. An example of the payment amount calculation process will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5.

[0107] (Step S409) The settlement processing unit 134 uses the payment amount obtained in step S408 to perform a settlement process for the user identified by the user identifier corresponding to the terminal device 2 that sent the departure information or settlement instruction.

[0108] (Step S410) The receipt assembly unit 135 performs the receipt assembly process. An example of the receipt assembly process will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 6.

[0109] (Step S411) The receipt output unit 142 outputs the receipt configured in step S410. Here, the receipt output unit 142 sends the receipt to the terminal device 2 that sent the departure information or payment instruction.

[0110] (Step S412) The processing unit 13 changes the number of paying users corresponding to the group identifier paired with the user identifier corresponding to the terminal device 2 that sent the departure information or payment instruction. The process returns to step S401. The number of paying users is the number of users in the group who have completed payment. The number of paying users may also be the number of users whose payment has not been completed. In this case, the number of paying users is the second number of users.

[0111] (Step S413) The payment instruction receiving unit 125 determines whether or not it has received a payment instruction from the terminal device 2. If a payment instruction is received, the process proceeds to step S414; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S421.

[0112] (Step S414) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains a user identifier corresponding to the payment instruction. Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 determines whether the mode identifier paired with the user identifier is the non-split payment mode. If it is the non-split payment mode, the unit proceeds to step S415; otherwise, the unit proceeds to step S408.

[0113] (Step S415) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains a group identifier that corresponds to the user identifier corresponding to the payment instruction from the user information storage unit 112.

[0114] (Step S416) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains one or more user identifiers that are paired with the group identifier obtained in step S415. The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains one or more order information from the storage unit 11 that is paired with each of the one or more user identifiers. In other words, the payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains all order information for the same group.

[0115] (Step S417) The payment amount calculation unit 133 adds up the price information of each of the one or more order pieces obtained in step S416 and calculates the payment amount.

[0116] (Step S418) The settlement processing unit 134 performs settlement processing using the payment amount obtained in step S417.

[0117] (Step S419) The receipt component 135 constitutes a receipt including the payment amount obtained in step S417. The receipt component 135 may also constitute detailed information using one or more order information obtained in step S416, and constitute a receipt that also includes this detailed information. The detailed information may include, for example, product name and price information.

[0118] (Step S420) The receipt output unit 142 transmits the receipt prepared in step S419 to the terminal device 2.

[0119] (Step S421) The receiving unit 12 determines whether or not it has received the number of users from the terminal device 2. If it has received the number of users, it proceeds to step S422; otherwise, it returns to step S401.

[0120] (Step S422) The processing unit 13 associates the number of users received in step S421 with a group identifier and stores it in the storage unit 11. The group identifier here is the group identifier that is paired with the user identifier corresponding to the number of users transmitted from the terminal device 2.

[0121] In the flowchart shown in Figure 4, processing is terminated by power-off or processing termination interrupts.

[0122] Next, an example of the payment amount calculation process in step S408 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5.

[0123] (Step S501) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains from the storage unit 11 the number of users corresponding to the group identifier paired with the user identifier of the user who sent the information.

[0124] (Step S502) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the split payment information corresponding to the group identifier from the storage unit 11. Note that the split payment information may also be in split payment mode.

[0125] (Step S503) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the user identifier of the user who sent the information.

[0126] (Step S504) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains a group identifier that is paired with the user identifier of the user who sent the information.

[0127] (Step S505) The payment amount calculation unit 133 assigns 1 to counter i.

[0128] (Step S506) The payment amount calculation unit 133 determines whether or not the i-th order information exists. If the i-th order information exists, the unit proceeds to step S507; otherwise, the unit proceeds to step S513.

[0129] (Step S507) The payment amount calculation unit 133 determines whether the group identifier paired with the user identifier paired with the i-th order information is the same as the group identifier obtained in step S504. If they are the same, the unit proceeds to step S508; otherwise, it proceeds to step S512.

[0130] (Step S508) The payment amount calculation unit 133 uses the acquired split payment information to determine whether the item corresponding to the i-th order information is an item to be split. If it is an item to be split, the process proceeds to step S509; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S510.

[0131] (Step S509) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains price information corresponding to the i-th order information. The payment amount calculation unit 133 adds this price information to the variable "total split bill". Proceed to step S512.

[0132] The variable "Total Split Bill" is used to obtain the total amount of the items to be split.

[0133] (Step S510) The payment amount calculation unit 133 determines whether the user identifier corresponding to the i-th order information is the same as the user identifier obtained in step S503. If they are the same, the unit proceeds to step S511; otherwise, the unit proceeds to step S512.

[0134] (Step S511) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains price information corresponding to the i-th order information. The payment amount calculation unit 133 adds this price information to the variable "Individual Total".

[0135] (Step S512) The payment amount calculation unit 133 increments counter i by 1. Return to step S506.

[0136] (Step S513) The payment amount calculation unit 133 divides the value of the variable "total split amount" by the number of users obtained in step S501 to obtain the amount for each split. Here, the payment amount calculation unit 133 also obtains any fractional amounts.

[0137] (Step S514) The payment amount calculation unit 133 determines whether the number of payment users paired with the group identifier is "number of users - 1" (i.e., whether it is the last payment user). If it is the last payment user, the unit proceeds to step S515; otherwise, the unit proceeds to step S517.

[0138] (Step S515) The payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the fractional amount resulting from the calculation in step S513.

[0139] (Step S516) The payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the amount of the split portion obtained in step S513, the fractional amount obtained in step S515, and the amount of the variable "Individual Total" to calculate the payment amount. It then returns to the higher-level process.

[0140] (Step S517) The payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the amount of the split portion obtained in step S513 and the amount of the variable "Individual Total" to calculate the payment amount. It then returns to the higher-level process.

[0141] In addition, in the flowchart of Figure 5, the payment amount calculation unit 133 may calculate the total payment amount for the entire group.

[0142] Furthermore, in the flowchart of Figure 5, the payment amount calculation unit 133 may also calculate the amount of the other users in the group to share the cost, the "individual total" amount, and the payment amount. It is preferable to temporarily store each of the calculated amounts in a buffer (not shown).

[0143] Next, an example of the receipt composition process in step S410 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 6.

[0144] (Step S601) The receipt component 135 adds the payment amount, etc., obtained by the payment amount calculation process to the receipt. The payment amount, etc., may be just the payment amount, or the payment amount and any fractional amounts.

[0145] (Step S602) The receipt component 135 assigns 1 to counter i.

[0146] (Step S603) The receipt component 135 determines whether the condition "i <= number of users - 1" is met. If "i <= number of users - 1" is met, the process proceeds to step S604; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S607.

[0147] (Step S604) The receipt component 135 obtains the user identifier of the i-th other user. The receipt component 135 provides this user identifier to the payment amount calculation unit 133 and causes it to perform the process of calculating the payment amount for the i-th other user.

[0148] (Step S605) The receipt component 135 adds the payment amounts of other users, etc., obtained in step S604, to the receipt.

[0149] (Step S606) The receipt component 135 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S603.

[0150] (Step S607) The receipt component 135 obtains the total amount, etc., from one or more order information corresponding to the group identifier of the group.

[0151] (Step S608) The receipt component 135 adds the total amount obtained in step S607 to the receipt.

[0152] (Step S609) The receipt component 135 determines whether or not to add details to the receipt. If details are to be added, it proceeds to step S610; otherwise, it returns to the higher-level process. Whether or not to add details to the receipt may be predetermined, or it may be done in response to instructions from the user.

[0153] (Step S610) The receipt component 135 obtains detail information (for example, having product name and price information) using one or more order information corresponding to the group identifier of the group. Here, the detail information may consist only of information obtained from the order information related to the payment of that user. In other words, the detail information does not have to include information on products that were paid for only by other users.

[0154] (Step S611) The receipt component 135 adds the details information obtained in step S610 to the receipt. It returns to the higher-level process.

[0155] Furthermore, in the flowchart shown in Figure 6, it is not necessary to perform the process of calculating the payment amounts of other users. In other words, the receipt may only contain information about one's own payment.

[0156] Next, an example of the operation of terminal device 2 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 7.

[0157] (Step S701) The terminal reception unit 22 determines whether or not it has received information such as the mode identifier. If it has received the information, it proceeds to step S702; otherwise, it proceeds to step S704. The mode identifier and other information may include, for example, the mode identifier, split bill information, order information, and the number of users.

[0158] (Step S702) The terminal processing unit 23 uses the information received in step S701 to configure the information to be transmitted. The process returns to step S701. The terminal processing unit 23 may, for example, obtain the user identifier of the terminal storage unit 21 and configure the information that includes that user identifier.

[0159] (Step S703) The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits the information configured in step S702 to the information processing device 1.

[0160] (Step S704) The terminal reception unit 22 determines whether or not it has received the departure information. If it has received the departure information, it proceeds to step S705; otherwise, it proceeds to step S708.

[0161] (Step S705) The terminal processing unit 23 uses the departure information received in step S704 to compose departure information to be transmitted. The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits the departure information to the information processing device 1.

[0162] The terminal processing unit 23, for example, obtains the user identifier of the terminal storage unit 21 and constructs absence information that includes that user identifier. The terminal transmission unit 24, for example, transmits the absence information.

[0163] (Step S706) The terminal receiving unit 25 determines whether or not it has received a receipt from the information processing device 1. If a receipt has been received, the process proceeds to step S707; otherwise, it returns to step S706.

[0164] (Step S707) The terminal processing unit 23 uses the receipt received in step S706 to construct the receipt to be output. The terminal output unit 26 outputs the receipt. The process returns to step S701.

[0165] (Step S708) The terminal reception unit 22 determines whether or not it has received a payment instruction. If it has received a payment instruction, it proceeds to step S709; otherwise, it returns to step S701.

[0166] (Step S709) The terminal processing unit 23 uses the payment instruction received in step S708 to configure the payment instruction to be transmitted. The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits the payment instruction to the information processing device 1. Proceed to step S706.

[0167] The terminal processing unit 23, for example, obtains the user identifier of the terminal storage unit 21 and configures a payment instruction that includes that user identifier. The terminal transmission unit 24, for example, transmits the payment instruction.

[0168] In the flowchart shown in Figure 7, processing is terminated by power-off or processing termination interrupts.

[0169] The following describes a specific example of the operation of information system A in this embodiment.

[0170] Let's assume that the product information storage unit 111 of the information processing device 1 stores the product management table shown in Figure 8. The product management table is a table for managing product information. The product management table manages a large amount of product information, each containing a "product identifier," "product name," "product type identifier," and "price."

[0171] Furthermore, the user information storage unit 112 stores the user management table shown in Figure 9. The user management table is a table that manages user information. The user management table manages one or more user records that have a "user identifier," a "group identifier," and a "completion flag." Note that each record in the user management table is information that is registered, for example, before the user places an order, but the timing of registration is not specified. The method of registering each record in the user management table is also not specified. The "user identifier" here is, for example, the user ID in the ordering application installed by the user on terminal device 2, but it may also be the IP address, MAC address, email address, telephone number, etc. of terminal device 2, and the type of information is not specified. The "group identifier" here is a unique group ID generated by the information processing device 1, but it may also be, for example, a group name entered by the user, and the type of information is not specified. Furthermore, the "completion flag" is information that indicates whether the payment for the corresponding user has been completed or not, and initially it is "0" which indicates that the payment is not yet completed. The information indicating that the payment has been completed is, in this case, "1."

[0172] Furthermore, the storage unit 11 stores an order management table having the structure shown in Figure 10. An order management table is a table for managing order information. The order management table manages one or more records that have "ID", "User Identifier", "Product Identifier", "Quantity", and "Order Date and Time". The "User Identifier" is the identifier of the user who placed the order. The "Product Identifier" is the identifier of the ordered product.

[0173] For the purposes of this example, we assume that, for instance, two or more users in an izakaya (Japanese pub) enter their own terminal device 2, which has the ordering application installed. The order information entered by each user is then transmitted from terminal device 2 to information processing device 1 and stored in the order management table.

[0174] In this situation, the following two specific examples will be explained. Specific example 1 is the case of "second mode" of splitting the bill, where everyone leaves together. Specific example 2 is the case of "second mode" of splitting the bill, where one person in the group leaves first. In these examples, "first mode" of splitting the bill is a mode where all items are split equally. "Second mode" of splitting the bill is a mode where food is split equally, and drinks are paid for individually by the person who ordered them.

[0175] (Specific example 1) Let's assume that the drinking party for members of group identifier "G01" has ended. And let's assume that user A, identified by user identifier "U001," who is the first to make a payment, has entered a payment screen output instruction containing user identifier "U001" into his terminal device 2.

[0176] Next, terminal device 2 receives a payment screen output instruction and transmits the instruction to information processing device 1. Next, information processing device 1 receives the payment screen output instruction and transmits a mode inquiry screen to terminal device 2. Next, terminal device 2 receives the mode inquiry screen and outputs it. An example of such a screen is shown in Figure 11. The mode inquiry screen (Figure 11) is a screen for selecting a payment method. The mode inquiry screen is a screen for the user to input the split payment mode before payment.

[0177] Let's assume that User A selected "Drinks individually, food split" from the "Split the bill" options in Figure 11 (see Figure 11). Note that "Drinks individually, food split" is the "second mode" of splitting the bill. "Split the entire bill" is the "first mode" of splitting the bill. If "Individual / Lump-sum payment" is selected, the payment will not be split. If "Individual / Lump-sum payment" is selected, you can choose either "Individual payment" or "Lump-sum payment". "Lump-sum payment" is a mode where one user pays the entire amount for the group.

[0178] Next, the terminal receiving unit 22 of the terminal device 2 receives a payment instruction including the split-bill mode "second mode". Next, the terminal processing unit 23 obtains the user identifier "U001" from the terminal storage unit 21 and constructs the payment instruction "<user identifier>U001 <mode>second mode". Next, the terminal transmission unit 24 transmits the payment instruction to the information processing device 1.

[0179] Next, the payment instruction receiving unit 125 of the information processing device 1 receives a payment instruction "<User Identification>U001 <Mode>Second Mode" from the terminal device 2.

[0180] Next, the split payment information storage unit 131 obtains the user identifier "U001" from the received payment instruction. Next, the split payment information storage unit 131 obtains the group identifier "G01", which is paired with the user identifier "U001", from the user management table (Figure 9). Next, the split payment information storage unit 131 stores the mode "second mode" in the storage unit 11, paired with the group identifier "G01".

[0181] Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the user identifier "U001" corresponding to the payment instruction. Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 determines from "<mode> Second Mode" included in the payment instruction that it is the split-bill mode. Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the group identifier "G01" which is paired with the user identifier "U001" from the user management table (Figure 9).

[0182] Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 performs the payment amount calculation process as follows: The payment amount calculation unit 133 refers to the user management table (Figure 9) and obtains the user identifiers "U001", "U002", and "U003" that are paired with the group identifier "G01". The user count acquisition unit 132 then obtains the user count "3", which is the number of user identifiers paired with the group identifier "G01". Alternatively, the user count acquisition unit 132 may obtain the user count "3" from the number of user identifiers "U001", "U002", and "U003" obtained.

[0183] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 refers to the order management table (Figure 10) and obtains the product identifier and quantity that are paired with one of the user identifiers "U001", "U002", or "U003".

[0184] Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 refers to the product management table (Figure 8) and uses the product identifier and quantity for each order obtained to retrieve the product name and order price (price × quantity in Figure 8) for each order.

[0185] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133, following the split-bill mode "second mode," adds the order price corresponding to product type identifier "1" and the user identifier "U001" as the price of a drink, calculating, for example, "2000 yen." The payment amount calculation unit 133 also adds the order price corresponding to product type identifier "2" and the user identifiers "U001," "U002," and "U003" as the price of a food, calculating, for example, "6722 yen." Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133, following the split-bill mode "second mode," divides the food price "6722 yen" by the number of users "3," rounds down the remainder, and obtains "2240 yen." The payment amount calculation unit 133 then adds the drink price "2000 yen" and the food price "2240 yen" to user A, calculating a total payment of "4240 yen."

[0186] Based on the above, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates a total payment of "4,240 yen", the price of drinks "2,000 yen", and the price of food "2,240 yen" for user A, and temporarily stores this information in a buffer (not shown) paired with the user identifier "U001".

[0187] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculated the amounts to be paid by users B and C, identified by user identifiers "U002" and "U003," respectively, in the same manner as for the users. The payment amount calculation unit 133 then temporarily stored the total payment amount of "6240 yen," the price of the drinks "4000 yen," and the price of the food "2240 yen" in a buffer (not shown), paired with the user identifier "U002."

[0188] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 temporarily stores the total payment amount of "2462 yen", the price of the beverages of "222 yen", and the price of the food of "2240 yen" in a buffer (not shown) in conjunction with the user identifier "U003".

[0189] Next, the settlement processing unit 134 uses the information temporarily stored in a buffer (not shown) to configure the settlement screen. Then, the payment amount output unit 141 transmits the settlement screen to user A's terminal device 2.

[0190] Next, terminal device 2 receives and outputs the payment screen. An example of such output is shown in Figure 12. In Figure 12, in addition to information regarding the amount that user A (you) will pay, information regarding the amounts that other users B and C will pay is also displayed.

[0191] Next, suppose user A presses the "Confirm Amount and Proceed" button 1201. Terminal device 2 then receives this instruction and displays a payment confirmation screen. An example of such a confirmation screen is shown in Figure 13.

[0192] Next, suppose user A presses the "Yes" button 1301 on the confirmation screen (Figure 13). Terminal device 2 then receives this instruction (confirmation instruction) and transmits it to information processing device 1. The confirmation instruction includes the user identifier "U001".

[0193] Next, the receiving unit 12 of the information processing device 1 receives the confirmation instruction. The settlement processing unit 134 then performs the settlement process for the user identified by the user identifier "U001" included in the confirmation instruction. The settlement processing unit 134 also rewrites the completion flag, which is paired with the user identifier "U001", to "1" (Figure 9). In this way, it is recorded that the settlement for user A has been completed.

[0194] Next, let's assume that user B entered a payment screen output instruction containing the user identifier "U002" into their terminal device 2.

[0195] Next, the terminal device 2 receives a payment screen output instruction and transmits the instruction to the information processing device 1. The information processing device 1 then receives the payment screen output instruction. Since the mode identifier "Second Mode" is stored in the storage unit 11 in conjunction with the group identifier "G01", the payment processing unit 134 retrieves the total payment amount "6240 yen", the price of the drink "4000 yen", and the price of the food "2240 yen", which are paired with the user identifier "U002" that identifies user B, from a buffer (not shown). The payment processing unit 134 also retrieves the total payment amount "2462 yen", the price of the drink "222 yen", and the price of the food "2240 yen", which are paired with the user identifier "U003" that identifies user C, from a buffer (not shown). Furthermore, it retrieves the total payment amount "4240 yen", the price of the drink "2000 yen", and the price of the food "2240 yen" for user A, who has already completed payment, from a buffer (not shown). The payment processing unit 134 then uses this information to configure the payment screen. Next, the payment amount output unit 141 transmits the payment screen to user B's terminal device 2.

[0196] Next, User B's terminal device 2 receives and outputs the payment screen. An example of such output is shown in Figure 14. In Figure 14, in addition to information about the amount that User B (you) will pay, information about the amount that another user C will pay and information about the completion of payment by User A, who has already paid, are also displayed.

[0197] Next, let's assume that User B instructs the terminal device 2 to click the "Confirm Amount and Proceed" button in Figure 14. The terminal device 2 then receives this instruction and displays a payment confirmation screen. An example of such a confirmation screen is shown in Figure 13.

[0198] Next, suppose user B presses the "Yes" button 1301. Terminal device 2 then receives this instruction (confirmation instruction) and transmits it to information processing device 1. The confirmation instruction includes the user identifier "U002".

[0199] Next, the receiving unit 12 of the information processing device 1 receives the confirmation instruction. The settlement processing unit 134 then performs the settlement process for the user identified by the user identifier "U002" included in the confirmation instruction. The settlement processing unit 134 also rewrites the completion flag, which is paired with the user identifier "U002", to "1" (Figure 9). In this way, it is recorded that the settlement for user B has been completed.

[0200] Next, let's assume that user C entered a payment screen output instruction containing the user identifier "U003" into their terminal device 2.

[0201] Next, the terminal device 2 receives a payment screen output instruction and transmits the instruction to the information processing device 1. The information processing device 1 then receives the payment screen output instruction. Since the mode identifier "second mode" is stored in the storage unit 11 in conjunction with the group identifier "G01", the payment processing unit 134 retrieves the total payment amount "2462 yen", the price of the drink "222 yen", and the price of the food "2240 yen", which are paired with the user identifier "U003" that identifies user C, from a buffer (not shown). It also retrieves the total payment amount "4240 yen", the price of the drink "2000 yen", and the price of the food "2240 yen" for user A, who has already completed payment, from a buffer (not shown). Furthermore, it retrieves the total payment amount "6240 yen", the price of the drink "4000 yen", and the price of the food "2240 yen" for user B, who has already completed payment, from a buffer (not shown).

[0202] Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 refers to the completion flag paired with the group identifier "G01" which is paired with "U003", and detects that user C, identified by the user identifier "U003", is the last user to make a payment in that group. Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the fractional amount "2 yen" from the calculation "6722 ÷ 3", which is "total amount ÷ number of users". Then, the payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the fractional amount "2 yen" to user C's total payment of "2462 yen", making the total payment "2464 yen".

[0203] Next, the payment processing unit 134 uses the above information to configure a payment screen to be sent to user C. Then, the payment amount output unit 141 sends the payment screen to user C's terminal device 2.

[0204] Next, user C's terminal device 2 receives and outputs the payment screen. An example of such output is shown in Figure 15. In Figure 15, in addition to information about the amount that user C (you) will pay, information about the completion of payments by users A and B, who have already paid, is also displayed. Furthermore, in Figure 15, fractional information (1501) is displayed, as well as the total amount including the fraction (1502).

[0205] (Specific example 2) Let's assume that User C selected the "Second Mode" for splitting the bill in order to leave the restaurant first, and completed the payment first.

[0206] Then, through the process described in Specific Example 1, the payment amount calculation unit 133 temporarily stores the total payment amount of "2462 yen", the price of the drink of "222 yen", and the price of the food of "2240 yen" in a buffer (not shown) for user C, paired with the user identifier "U003".

[0207] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates a fractional amount of "2 yen," divides it by the remaining number of users "2," and obtains a fractional amount of "1 yen" for each person.

[0208] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates the price of the drink, "2000 yen," and the price of the food, "2240 yen," for other user A. Then, the payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the fractional amount "1 yen" to the price of the food, "2240 yen," to obtain the price of the food, "2241 yen." Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 temporarily stores the price of the drink, "2000 yen," and the price of the food, "2241 yen," paired with the user identifier "U001," in a buffer (not shown).

[0209] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 calculates the price of the beverage, "4000 yen," and the price of the food, "2240 yen," for other user B. Then, the payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the fractional amount "1 yen" to the price of the food, "2240 yen," to obtain the price of the food, "2241 yen." Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 temporarily stores the price of the beverage, "4000 yen," and the price of the food, "2241 yen," paired with the user identifier "U002," in a buffer (not shown).

[0210] Next, let's assume that users A and B continued ordering food even after user C left. And let's assume that the total amount of food ordered was "8722 yen". In other words, let's assume that 2000 yen worth of food was ordered after user C left.

[0211] After that, the drinking party between User A and User B came to an end, and User A entered a payment screen output instruction containing the user identifier "U001" into their terminal device 2.

[0212] Next, the terminal device 2 receives a payment screen output instruction and transmits the instruction to the information processing device 1. The information processing device 1 then receives the payment screen output instruction. Since the mode identifier "second mode" is stored in the storage unit 11 in conjunction with the group identifier "G01", the payment amount calculation unit 133 retrieves the price of the drink "2000 yen" and the price of the food "2241 yen", which are paired with the user identifier "U001" that identifies user A, from a buffer (not shown).

[0213] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 divides the additional 2,000 yen worth of food ordered by the number of users, "2," to calculate 1,000 yen. This 1,000 yen is then added to the food price of 2,241 yen, which is paired with the user identifier "U001," to calculate the food price of 3,241 yen. The payment amount calculation unit 133 then adds the drink price of 2,000 yen and the food price of 3,241 yen together to calculate a total amount of 5,241 yen. Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 temporarily stores the total amount of 5,241 yen, the drink price of 2,000 yen, and the food price of 3,241 yen in a buffer (not shown), paired with the user identifier "U001."

[0214] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 obtains the price of the beverage "4000 yen" and the price of the food "2241 yen," which are paired with the user identifier "U002" that identifies user B, from a buffer (not shown).

[0215] Furthermore, the payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the additional order amount of "1000 yen" to the food price of "2241 yen" paired with the user identifier "U002" to calculate the food price of "3241 yen". Then, the payment amount calculation unit 133 adds the drink price of "4000 yen" and the food price of "3241 yen" to calculate the total amount of "7241 yen". Next, the payment amount calculation unit 133 temporarily stores the total amount of "7241 yen", the drink price of "4000 yen", and the food price of "3241 yen" paired with the user identifier "U002" in a buffer (not shown).

[0216] Furthermore, the payment processing unit 134 retrieves the price of the drink "222 yen" and the price of the food "2240 yen" for user C, who has already completed payment, from a buffer (not shown). The payment processing unit 134 also retrieves the total amount for drinks "6222 yen", the total amount for food "8722 yen", and the grand total "14944 yen".

[0217] Next, the payment processing unit 134 uses the above information to configure the payment screen. Then, the payment amount output unit 141 transmits the payment screen to user A's terminal device 2.

[0218] Next, user A's terminal device 2 receives and outputs the payment screen. An example of such output is shown in Figure 16. In Figure 16, in addition to information about the amount that user A (you) will pay, information about the amount that user B will pay and information about the amount that user C, who left earlier, will pay are also displayed.

[0219] Next, let's assume User A instructs the terminal to click the "Confirm Amount and Proceed" button. Terminal device 2 then receives this instruction and displays a payment confirmation screen. An example of such a confirmation screen is shown in Figure 13.

[0220] Next, suppose user A presses the "Yes" button 1301. Terminal device 2 then receives this instruction (confirmation instruction) and transmits it to information processing device 1. The confirmation instruction includes the user identifier "U001".

[0221] Next, the receiving unit 12 of the information processing device 1 receives the confirmation instruction. The settlement processing unit 134 then performs the settlement process for the user identified by the user identifier "U001" included in the confirmation instruction. The settlement processing unit 134 also rewrites the completion flag, which is paired with the user identifier "U001", to "1" (Figure 9). In this way, it is recorded that the settlement for user A has been completed.

[0222] As described above, according to this embodiment, appropriate bill-splitting can be performed for each user belonging to the group.

[0223] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to distinguish between cases where the bill is split and cases where it is not, depending on the product, and to obtain the amount each person pays, thereby enabling appropriate bill-splitting processing.

[0224] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the items to be split can be customized according to the user's wishes.

[0225] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since two or more bill-splitting modes can be provided to the user, more appropriate bill-splitting processing can be performed.

[0226] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since the user can select between a mode where the bill is split and a mode where it is not split, an appropriate payment amount can be output.

[0227] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when splitting the bill, receipts can be printed for each of the two or more users.

[0228] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, even if a user has already left, the bill can be split appropriately.

[0229] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, fractional amounts in splitting the bill can be handled appropriately.

[0230] In this embodiment, the receipt component 135 may also constitute a receipt that includes information such as that shown in Figures 12, 14, 15, and 16.

[0231] Furthermore, the processing in this embodiment may be implemented in software. This software may be distributed via software download or the like. Alternatively, this software may be recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM and distributed. This also applies to other embodiments described herein. The software that implements the information processing device 1 in this embodiment is the following program. In other words, this program is a program that enables a computer that can access a product information storage unit that stores two or more product information items having product identifiers and price information to function as an order receiving unit that receives order information corresponding to a user identifier, which has a product identifier, from one of the users in a group of two or more users; a user count acquisition unit that acquires the number of users in the group who are subject to splitting the bill; a payment amount calculation unit that determines whether a product is to be split or not, depending on the product identified by the product identifier in the order information, and for products to be split, obtains the split amount by dividing the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the order receiving unit by the number of users, and adds the said split amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users; and for products not to be split, adds the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the order receiving unit to the payment amount of one user, and calculates the payment amount of each of the two or more users; and a payment amount output unit that outputs the payment amount of each of the two or more users calculated by the payment amount calculation unit.

[0232] Figure 17 also shows the external appearance of a computer that executes the program described herein to realize the information processing device 1 and other devices of the various embodiments described above. The embodiments described above can be realized with computer hardware and computer programs executed thereon. Figure 17 is an overview of this computer system 300, and Figure 18 is a block diagram of the system 300.

[0233] In Figure 17, the computer system 300 includes a computer 301 with a CD-ROM drive, a keyboard 302, a mouse 303, and a monitor 304.

[0234] In Figure 18, the computer 301 includes, in addition to the CD-ROM drive 3012, an MPU 3013, a bus 3014 connected to the CD-ROM drive 3012, a ROM 3015 for storing programs such as boot-up programs, a RAM 3016 connected to the MPU 3013 for temporarily storing application program instructions and providing temporary storage space, and a hard disk 3017 for storing application programs, system programs, and data. Although not shown here, the computer 301 may further include a network card for providing connectivity to a LAN.

[0235] The program that causes the computer system 300 to execute the functions of the information processing device 1, etc., as described above, may be stored on the CD-ROM 3101, inserted into the CD-ROM drive 3012, and then transferred to the hard disk 3017. Alternatively, the program may be transmitted to the computer 301 via a network (not shown) and stored on the hard disk 3017. The program is loaded into the RAM 3016 during execution. The program may also be loaded directly from the CD-ROM 3101 or the network.

[0236] The program does not necessarily have to include an operating system (OS) or third-party program that causes the computer 301 to execute the functions of the information processing device 1, etc., as described above. The program only needs to include the instruction portion that calls the appropriate function (module) in a controlled manner and obtains the desired result. How the computer system 300 operates is well known, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0237] In the above program, steps such as sending information and receiving information do not include hardware-based processing, such as processing performed by a modem or interface card in the transmission step (processing that can only be performed by hardware).

[0238] Furthermore, the computer running the above program may be a single computer or multiple computers. In other words, it may perform centralized processing or distributed processing.

[0239] Furthermore, it goes without saying that in each of the above embodiments, two or more communication means present in a single device may be physically implemented in a single medium.

[0240] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, each process may be implemented by centralized processing by a single device, or by distributed processing by multiple devices.

[0241] It goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible, all of which are also included within the scope of the present invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0242] As described above, the information processing device according to the present invention has the effect of being able to perform appropriate bill splitting when multiple people order goods, and is useful as an information processing device, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0243] A Information Systems 1. Information Processing Device 2 Terminal devices 11 Storage Unit 12 Receiver 13 Processing Unit 14 Output section 21 Terminal storage section 22 Terminal Reception Section 23 Terminal Processing Unit 24 Terminal transmission unit 25 Receiving part of the terminal 26 Terminal output section 111 Product Information Storage Unit 112 User Information Storage Unit 121 Mode Receiver 122 Bill splitting information receiving unit 123 Order Receiving Department 124 Departure Information Receiving Unit 125 Payment instruction receiving unit 131 Bill Splitting Information Storage Unit 132 User count acquisition section 133 Payment Amount Calculation Section 134 Payment Processing Unit 135 Receipt component 141 Payment Amount Output Section 142 Receipt output section

Claims

1. A product information storage unit that stores two or more product information items having a product identifier and price information, An order receiving unit that receives order information corresponding to a user identifier, and order information having a product identifier, from the terminal devices of two or more users in a group of two or more users, A user count acquisition unit that acquires the number of users who are subject to splitting the bill in the aforementioned group, Depending on the product identified by the product identifier in the order information, there are products that are to be split and products that are not to be split. For products that are to be split, the order receiving unit obtains the split amount by dividing the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the number of users, and adds this split amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users. For products that are not to be split, the order receiving unit adds the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the order receiving unit to the payment amount of the user who sent the order information, and calculates the payment amount of each of the two or more users. An information processing apparatus comprising: a payment amount output unit that outputs the payment amount for each of the two or more users calculated by the payment amount calculation unit.

2. The system further comprises a mode receiving unit that receives a mode identifier that identifies one of two or more split-payment modes selected by one of the two or more users, from among two or more split-payment modes, including a first mode in which all items are split equally, and a second mode in which food items are split equally and beverages are paid for by the person who ordered them, prior to receiving the order information. The payment amount calculation unit said above, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, which calculates the payment amount for each of the two or more users according to the mode identifier.

3. The payment amount calculation unit said above, The information processing device according to claim 1, which obtains price information from the product information storage unit that is paired with the product identifier in the order information, and if the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information is information indicating split payment, obtains the split payment amount by dividing the price information by the number of users, and adds the said split payment amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users, and if the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information is information indicating split payment and the split payment information corresponding to the product identifier in the order information is not information indicating split payment, it adds it to the payment amount of the user identified by the user identifier corresponding to the order information received by the order receiving unit, and calculates the payment amount of each of the two or more users.

4. The aforementioned product information has a product type identifier, The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the aforementioned split bill information is associated with a product type identifier.

5. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the aforementioned split bill information is associated with one or more product identifiers.

6. A bill splitting information receiving unit receives bill splitting information in a manner that associates it with one or more product identifiers, The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a bill splitting information storage unit that stores the bill splitting information received by the bill splitting information receiving unit in a manner corresponding to one or more product identifiers.

7. The payment amount calculation unit said above, A mode receiving unit that receives a mode identifier that identifies one of two or more bill-splitting modes, The payment amount calculation unit said above, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which calculates the payment amount for each of the two or more users according to the mode identifier received by the mode receiving unit.

8. Mode receiving unit that identifies the non-split-the-bill mode, which is a mode in which the bill is not split. and, The payment amount calculation unit said above, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein when the mode receiving unit receives the non-split payment mode, it does not calculate the payment amount for each of the two or more users, but instead obtains price information paired with the product identifier in each of the two or more order pieces of information received by the order receiving unit, and calculates a payment amount by adding up the two or more price pieces of information.

9. A receipt showing the payment amounts for each of the two or more users calculated by the payment amount calculation unit, comprising a receipt configuration unit that constitutes a receipt for each of the two or more users, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a receipt output unit that outputs each of the two or more receipts configured by the receipt component.

10. The system further comprises an absence information receiving unit that receives absence information indicating that a user is leaving the system. The aforementioned user count acquisition unit, The aforementioned departure information receiving unit obtains the number of second users after receiving the departure information. The payment amount calculation unit said above, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, with respect to order information before the departure information receiving unit receives the departure information, the payment amount for each of the two or more users is calculated using the number of users acquired by the user count acquisition unit, and with respect to order information after the departure information receiving unit receives the departure information, the payment amount for each user corresponding to the second number of users is calculated using the second number of users acquired by the user count acquisition unit.

11. A payment instruction receiving unit that receives payment instructions from each of the two or more terminal devices, The system further comprises a settlement processing unit that performs settlement processing in response to the receipt of the settlement instruction, The payment amount calculation unit said above, The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which calculates the payment amount, including any fractional amounts, for the user who makes the final payment when splitting the bill.

12. An information processing method implemented by a product information storage unit that stores two or more product information items having product identifiers and price information, an order receiving unit, a user count acquisition unit, a payment amount calculation unit, and a payment amount output unit, The order receiving unit receives order information corresponding to a user identifier, which has a product identifier, from the terminal devices of two or more users in a group of two or more users. The user count acquisition unit performs a user count acquisition step to acquire the number of users in the group who are subject to splitting the bill, The payment amount calculation unit calculates the payment amount for each of the two or more users by determining that, depending on the product identified by the product identifier in the order information, there are products to be split and products not to be split. For products to be split, it obtains the split amount by dividing the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received in the order receiving step by the number of users, and adds this split amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users. For products not to be split, it adds the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received in the order receiving step to the payment amount of the user who sent the order information, and calculates the payment amount of each of the two or more users. An information processing method comprising: a payment amount output unit and a payment amount output step that outputs the payment amounts for each of the two or more users calculated in the payment amount calculation step.

13. A computer capable of accessing a product information storage unit that stores two or more product information items having product identifiers and price information, An order receiving unit that receives order information corresponding to a user identifier, and order information having a product identifier, from the terminal devices of two or more users in a group of two or more users, A user count acquisition unit that acquires the number of users who are subject to splitting the bill in the aforementioned group, Depending on the product identified by the product identifier in the order information, there are products that are to be split and products that are not to be split. For products that are to be split, the order receiving unit obtains the split amount by dividing the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the number of users, and adds this split amount to the payment amount of each of the two or more users. For products that are not to be split, the order receiving unit adds the price information paired with the product identifier in the order information received by the order receiving unit to the payment amount of the user who sent the order information, and calculates the payment amount of each of the two or more users. A program for functioning as a payment amount output unit that outputs the payment amounts for each of the two or more users calculated by the payment amount calculation unit.

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