Information processing systems, information processing methods, information processing programs

Abstract

To provide an information processing system, an information processing method and an information processing program superior in convenience for coupon use.SOLUTION: In an information processing system in which a plurality of terminals and a server 5 are connected communicably with each other, a CPU 500C of the server 5 includes functions, such as a reception unit 501, a transmission unit 502, a storage device control unit 503, a coupon information registration unit 504, an inventory information acquisition unit 505, a change unit 506, a generation unit 507, an identification unit 508, and a setting unit 509. The coupon information registration unit 504 registers commodity information received by the reception unit 501 and transmitted from a third terminal and a use condition associated with the commodity information as coupon information. The change unit 506 changes the use condition of the coupon information on the basis of inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505. The identification unit 508 identifies coupon information usable for a commodity corresponding to a commodity code received by the reception unit 501 in the coupon information acquired by a first user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] Coupons such as gift certificates, coupon tickets, discount tickets, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "coupons") that can be exchanged for goods or services are issued for attracting customers. Conventionally, coupons have been issued by distributing free booklets or information magazines containing the coupons. However, in recent years, with the spread of terminals such as smartphones, coupons are being issued electronically.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, when registering a coupon, together with coupon information (such as information on the product name, discount amount, available period of the coupon, maximum number of uses, etc.), target information of the coupon distribution target person (information such as age, gender, hobbies, etc.) is registered, and based on the position information of the target person using a mobile terminal, a location-linked coupon issuance system that issues a coupon when the target person visits the store has been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the conventional invention, it is necessary to display each coupon that one wants to use, and there is room for improvement in convenience.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing system, an information processing method, and an information processing program that are more excellent in convenience.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To solve the above problems, the information processing system of the present invention comprises: a first terminal equipped with a transmitting unit that transmits user information and product information; a receiving unit that receives user information and product information transmitted from the first terminal; an identification unit that refers to a storage unit in which user information and coupon information acquired by the user are stored and identifies coupon information that can be used for products corresponding to product information received by the receiving unit from among the coupon information acquired by the user; a transmitting unit that transmits the coupon information identified by the identification unit to the first terminal; and a setting unit that sets the status of the coupon information identified by the identification unit from among the coupon information acquired by the user stored in the storage unit to "used". [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an information processing system, an information processing method, and an information processing program that offer greater convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the first terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the second terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the server configuration according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a screen displayed on the second terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a screen displayed on the second terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows an example of processing performed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of processing performed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]This flowchart shows an example of processing performed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of processing performed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of processing performed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] [Embodiment] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, a barcode (one-dimensional code) will be used as an example of the first code displayed on the second terminal 3 (identification information of the first user, described later), but two-dimensional codes such as QR codes (registered trademark) or iQR codes may also be used. Furthermore, while the first terminal 2 of the embodiment will be described using a POS register as an example, the embodiment also includes configurations in which a tablet terminal or smartphone is used as a POS register.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing system 1 includes a first terminal 2 (such as a POS register), a second terminal 3 (such as a smartphone), a third terminal 4, a server 5, etc. The first terminal 2, second terminal 3, third terminal 4, and server 5 are connected via a network 6 and can communicate with each other. The number of each of the first terminal 2, second terminal 3, third terminal 4, and server 5 in the information processing system 1 is arbitrary.

[0012] (Configuration of Terminal 1, Terminal 2) The first terminal 2 is a terminal used for processing payments (settlement) for goods purchased by customers, and is, for example, a POS register installed in retail stores such as supermarkets, convenience stores, and drugstores.

[0013] As shown in Figure 2(a), the first terminal 2 includes a communication IF 200A, a storage device 200B, an input device 200C, a display device 200D, a CPU 200E, and a scanner device 200F.

[0014] The communication IF 200A is an interface for communicating with other devices (e.g., server 5).

[0015] The storage device 200B is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor storage device (SSD (Solid State Drive)), and stores information processing programs, terminal IDs, etc. The terminal ID is an identifier for identifying the first terminal 2. By attaching the terminal ID to the information transmitted from the first terminal 2, the server 5 can determine from which first terminal 2 the received information was transmitted. The terminal ID may use an IP (Internet Protocol) address, a MAC (Media Access Control) address, etc., or may be assigned by the server 5 to the first terminal 2.

[0016] The input device 200C is, for example, a touch panel or operation buttons (keys), etc., and outputs a signal corresponding to the operation content when operated. The input device 200C has operation buttons such as numeric keys (0 to 9), subtotal key, current total key, discount key, percentage discount key, setting key, correction key, addition key, etc., and outputs a signal corresponding to the operation content when operated. As long as it is inputable, the input device 200C may be other devices or equipment (e.g., a touch panel).

[0017] The display device 200D is, for example, a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, an organic EL display, etc., but may be other devices or equipment (e.g., CRT: Cathode Ray Tube) as long as it can display. In the present embodiment, the first terminal 2 has two display devices, a display device 200D for store clerks and a display device 200D for customers.

[0018] The CPU 200E controls the first terminal 2. The CPU 200E includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) not shown in the figure.

[0019] The scanner device 200F is a device for reading (scanning) a first code (identification information of the first user) displayed on the second terminal 3, or a product code (such as a JAN code assigned to a product) attached to a product.

[0020] In this embodiment, the first terminal 2 is configured to have a storage device 200B, but for example, another device connected via the network 6 (e.g., a server) may have all or part of the storage device 200B. In this case, the first terminal 2 refers to the storage device provided by the other device. Also, for example, it may be configured to be able to download information processing programs from other devices connected via the network 6.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2(b), the first terminal 2 has functions such as a receiving unit 201, a transmitting unit 202, a storage device control unit 203, an input receiving unit 204, a display device control unit 205, and a scanner device control unit 206.

[0022] The receiving unit 201 receives information transmitted from, for example, the server 5.

[0023] The transmission unit 202 transmits to the server 5 information such as information corresponding to the input operation received by the input reception unit 204, the first code and product code read by the scanner device 200F, and its own terminal ID.

[0024] The storage device control unit 203 controls the storage device 200B. For example, the storage device control unit 203 controls the storage device 200B to write and read information.

[0025] The input receiving unit 204 receives input operations from, for example, the input device 200C.

[0026] The display device control unit 205 controls, for example, the display device 200D.

[0027] The scanner device control unit 206 controls, for example, the scanner device 200F.

[0028] The function shown in Figure 2(b) is achieved by the CPU 200E executing a program stored in the memory device 200B.

[0029] (Configuration of Terminal 2, Terminal 3) The second terminal 3 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet PC (tablet device). Consumers (hereinafter referred to as the first user) who purchase goods at supermarkets, convenience stores, etc., use the second terminal 3 to obtain coupon information (coupon information will be described later) or to present the obtained coupon information.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3(a), the second terminal 3 includes a communication IF 300A, a storage device 300B, an input device 300C, a display device 300D, and a CPU 300E.

[0031] Communication IF300A is an interface for communicating with other devices (for example, Server 5).

[0032] The storage device 300B is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor storage device (SSD (Solid State Drive)), and stores information such as an information processing program, a terminal ID, and information for displaying the first code (identification information of the first user). The terminal ID is an identifier for identifying the second terminal 3. By assigning the terminal ID to the information transmitted from the second terminal 3, the server 5 can determine which second terminal 3 the received information was transmitted from. The terminal ID may be, for example, an IP (Internet Protocol) address or a MAC (Media Access Control) address, and the server 5 may assign it to the second terminal 3.

[0033] The input device 300C is, for example, an input device such as a keyboard or mouse, but it may also be any other device or equipment (for example, a touch panel) that can accept input. It may also be an audio input device.

[0034] The display device 300D may be, for example, a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or an organic EL display, but it may also be any other device or equipment capable of displaying (for example, a CRT: Cathode Ray Tube).

[0035] The CPU300E controls the second terminal 3. The CPU300E is equipped with ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), which are not shown in the diagram.

[0036] In this embodiment, the second terminal 3 is configured to have a storage device 300B, but for example, another device connected via the network 6 (e.g., a server) may have all or part of the storage device 300B. In this case, the second terminal 3 refers to the storage device provided by the other device. It may also be configured to be able to download information processing programs from the other device connected via the network 6.

[0037] As shown in Figure 3(b), the second terminal 3 has functions such as a receiving unit 301, a transmitting unit 302, a storage device control unit 303, an input receiving unit 304, and a display device control unit 305.

[0038] The receiving unit 301 receives information transmitted from, for example, the server 5.

[0039] The transmitting unit 302 transmits information corresponding to the input operation received by the input receiving unit 304, its own terminal ID, etc., to the server 5.

[0040] The storage device control unit 303 controls the storage device 300B. For example, the storage device control unit 303 controls the storage device 300B to write and read information.

[0041] The input receiving unit 304 receives input operations from, for example, the input device 300C.

[0042] The display device control unit 305 controls, for example, the display device 300D.

[0043] The functions shown in Figure 3(b) are realized when the CPU 300E executes a program (for example, an application program) stored in the memory device 300B.

[0044] (Configuration of Terminal 3, 4) The third terminal 4 is, for example, a PC terminal. Product manufacturers that manufacture and sell products, and retail companies such as supermarkets and convenience stores that purchase (procure) products from product manufacturers and sell them to consumers (hereinafter referred to as second users), use the third terminal 4 to register coupon information, etc. Retail companies are also called sellers.

[0045] The third terminal 4 is equipped with a communication IF 400A, a storage device 400B, an input device 400C, a display device 400D, and a CPU 400E, and has functions such as a receiving unit 401, a transmitting unit 402, a storage device control unit 403, an input receiving unit 404, and a display device control unit 405. Note that the communication IF 400A, storage device 400B, input device 400C, display device 400D, CPU 400E, receiving unit 401, transmitting unit 402, storage device control unit 403, input receiving unit 404, and display device control unit 405 of the third terminal 4 are the same as those of the second terminal 3 described with reference to Figure 3, so redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0046] (Server 5 configuration) As shown in Figure 4(a), the server 5 is equipped with a communication interface 500A, a storage device 500B, and a CPU 500C.

[0047] The communication IF500A is an interface for communicating with other devices (for example, terminal 1 2, terminal 2 3, and terminal 3 4).

[0048] The storage device 500B is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor storage device (SSD (Solid State Drive)), and stores various databases and information processing programs. The storage device 500B may be any other device or equipment as long as it is capable of writing and reading information (data). In this embodiment, the server 5 is equipped with the storage device 500B, but it may also be stored in a computer-readable external storage medium (e.g., a USB memory stick or external HDD), or it may be configured to be readable and / or writable by other computers or servers via the network 6.

[0049] The storage device 500B stores, for example, various databases and information processing programs. The following describes the various databases stored in the storage device 500B.

[0050] (First database) The first database stores attribute information of the first user (consumer), acquired coupon information (coupon information will be described later), purchase history information, point card information, etc., all associated with the first user's identification information (ID). Attribute information represents the attributes of the first user, such as gender, age group, and postal code. The acquired coupon information is the information of the coupon acquired by the first user. Purchase history information includes information about the purchased items (product name (JAN code is also acceptable), quantity, etc.), purchase date and time (year / month / day / hour / minute), and purchase location (store identification information (ID)). Point card information, for example, is the identification information (ID) of a customer card or point card that can be used at a store.

[0051] (Second database) The second database stores attribute information of the second user (product manufacturer or retail company), issued coupon information, store information, product inventory information, etc., linked to the second user's identification information. Attribute information includes company name, contact person's name, and contact details. Store information includes information about stores belonging to the second user, including directly managed stores and franchised stores, such as store name, address (location area), and contact information. The inventory information refers to the product inventory for each store.

[0052] Coupon information is electronic information (so-called electronic coupon) in which information such as discount amount, discount rate, and other usage conditions are associated with product information (hereinafter also referred to as product information). Coupon information includes the product information described in (1-1) below and the usage conditions described in (1-2) to (1-7) that are associated with the product information. Note that it is sufficient for one or more usage conditions in (1-2) to (1-7) to be associated, and it is not necessary to associate all usage conditions. (1-1) Target products (product code, etc.) (1-2) Information specifying the retail company among the second user (more than two retail companies can be specified) (1-3) Number of units issued (1-4) Discount amount or discount rate (including free) (1-5) Available period (hereinafter also referred to as the available period) (1-6) Information specifying the payment method when using coupon information. (1-7) Available areas (hereinafter also referred to as available areas)

[0053] (Third database) The third database, for example, stores a product master. The product master is information where product information such as product name, manufacturer, and selling price is associated with a product code.

[0054] The CPU500C controls server 5. The CPU500C is equipped with ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), which are not shown in the diagram.

[0055] As shown in Figure 4(b), the server 5 has functions such as a receiving unit 501, a transmitting unit 502, a storage device control unit 503, a coupon information registration unit 504, an inventory information acquisition unit 505, a modification unit 506, a generation unit 507, a specific unit 508, and a setting unit 509.

[0056] The receiving unit 501 receives information transmitted from, for example, the first terminal 2, the second terminal 3, and the third terminal 4.

[0057] The transmitting unit 502 transmits information to, for example, the first terminal 2, the second terminal 3, and the third terminal 4.

[0058] The storage device control unit 503 controls the storage device 500B. For example, the storage device control unit 503 controls the storage device 500B to write and read information from the first database to the third database stored in the storage device 500B.

[0059] The coupon information registration unit 504 registers, for example, product information transmitted from the third terminal 4 received by the receiving unit 501 and the usage conditions associated with said product information as coupon information. The coupon information registered by the coupon information registration unit 504 is stored in the second database DB2 in association with the identification information of the second user.

[0060] The inventory information acquisition unit 505 acquires, for example, inventory information of a second user's products. The inventory information acquisition unit 505 may, for example, acquire inventory information of products entered by the second user into the third terminal 4, or it may cooperate with the second user's inventory management system, etc., and acquire inventory information of products from said inventory management system, etc.

[0061] The modification unit 506 modifies the usage conditions of coupon information, for example, based on inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505. The modification unit 506 modifies the usage conditions (associated with the product information) of coupon information if coupon information exists that includes product information for products with a large inventory quantity (for example, products whose inventory quantity exceeds a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time (for example, the current date and time)) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining period until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time (for example, the current date and time) is less than a predetermined threshold). The modification unit 506 may, for example, modify one or more of the usage conditions of the coupon information as described in (2-1) to (2-5) below. Note that the modification of usage conditions described in (2-1) to (2-5) below is merely an example, and usage conditions may be modified in other ways. (2-1) Increase the number of designated second users (retail companies) (2-2) Increase the number of issues issued (2-3) Increase the discount amount or discount rate. (2-4) Extend the period of availability (2-5) Expand the service area

[0062] In this embodiment, the modification unit 506 is configured to automatically change the usage conditions of coupon information if coupon information exists that includes product information for products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory quantity exceeds a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining period until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time is less than a predetermined threshold). However, if there are products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory quantity exceeds a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining period until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time is less than a predetermined threshold) (i.e., if the predetermined conditions are met), the server 5 may determine whether or not coupon information including product information for those products has been issued, and if coupon information including product information for those products has been issued, the notification unit may be configured to notify that the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions. In this case, it is preferable that the notification unit notifies the third terminal 4 whether or not to change the usage conditions of the coupon information along with the information that the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions, and accepts changes to the usage conditions of the coupon information by the second user. Furthermore, if the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions, the notification unit may notify that the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions, and the modification unit 506 may modify one or more of the usage conditions of the coupon information based on the inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505.

[0063] The generation unit 507 generates coupon information, for example, based on inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505. The generation unit 507 generates coupon information for products with large inventory levels (for example, products whose inventory level exceeds a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time (for example, the current date and time)) and products with approaching expiration dates (for example, products whose remaining time until expiration at a predetermined date and time (for example, the current date and time) is less than a predetermined threshold). The coupon information generated by the generation unit 507 is registered by the coupon information registration unit 504. The coupon information registered by the coupon information registration unit 504 is stored in the second database DB2 in association with the identification information of the second user.

[0064] In this embodiment, the generation unit 507 is configured to automatically generate coupon information for products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory quantity exceeds a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining period until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time is less than a predetermined threshold). However, if there are products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory quantity exceeds a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining period until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time is less than a predetermined threshold) (i.e., if the predetermined conditions are met), the system may be configured to include a notification unit that notifies the system that the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions. In this case, it is preferable that the notification unit notifies the system that the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions, along with whether or not the server 5 will issue coupon information for products that meet the predetermined conditions, and accepts registration of coupon information by the second user. Alternatively, if the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions, the notification unit may notify the system that the inventory information meets the predetermined conditions, and the generation unit 507 may generate coupon information based on the inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505.

[0065] The identification unit 508, for example, refers to the first database in which coupon information acquired by the first user is stored, and identifies the coupon information from the coupon information acquired by the first user that is available for the product corresponding to the product code received by the receiving unit 501.

[0066] The setting unit 509, for example, sets the status of the coupon information identified by the identification unit 508 from the coupon information acquired by the first user stored in the first database to "used".

[0067] The function shown in Figure 4(b) is achieved by the CPU 500C executing a program stored in the memory device 500B.

[0068] (Example of a screen) Figures 5 and 6 show examples of screens displayed on the display device 300D of the second terminal 3. Figure 5 is an example of screen G1, which displays a list of coupon information acquired by the first user on the display device 300D. As shown in Figure 5, available coupon information 52 is displayed on screen G1. As shown in Figure 5, available coupon information 52 is displayed on screen G1. When the first user taps the "Show barcode" icon 51, the screen transitions from screen G1 in Figure 5 to screen G2 in Figure 6, and the first code 53, which is the identification information of the second user, is displayed.

[0069] (Processing by an information processing system) Figures 7 to 11 are flowcharts illustrating an example of processing performed by Information Processing System 1. The processing performed by Information Processing System 1 will be explained below with reference to Figures 7 to 11.

[0070] (Coupon information registration process) Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the coupon information registration process by the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. The coupon information registration process by the information processing system 1 will be described below. In the following description, it will be assumed that the second user is already logged into the server 5.

[0071] (Step S101) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 accepts the specification of product information (for example, product name, JAN code, etc.) transmitted from the third terminal 4.

[0072] (Step S102) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 determines whether it has received a designation of a retail company from among the second users. If it determines that it has received a designation of a retail company (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S103. If it determines that it has not received a designation of a retail company (NO), server 5 executes the process in step S104. Note that a second user can designate not just one, but two or more second users. By designating two or more second users, the coupon information can be used at multiple retail companies. While it is unlikely that a retail company in a specific group can issue coupon information that can be used at retail companies in other groups, a product manufacturer can issue coupon information that can be used at two or more retail companies in their group, which is particularly advantageous for product manufacturers.

[0073] (Step S103) The coupon information registration unit 504 of server 5 associates the specified retail company with the product information specified in step S101 as a condition for use.

[0074] (Step S104) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 determines whether or not it has received the specification of the number of issuances. If it determines that it has received the specification of the number of issuances (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S105. If it does not determine that it has received the specification of the number of issuances (NO), server 5 executes the process in step S106.

[0075] (Step S105) The coupon information registration unit 504 of server 5 associates the specified number of coupons issued with the product information specified in step S101, using the specified number of coupons as a usage condition.

[0076] (Step S106) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 determines whether or not it has received a specification of the discount amount or discount rate. If it determines that it has received a specification of the discount amount or discount rate (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S107. If it does not determine that it has received a specification of the discount amount or discount rate (NO), server 5 executes the process in step S108.

[0077] (Step S107) The coupon information registration unit 504 of server 5 associates the specified discount amount or discount rate with the product information specified in step S101 as a condition for use.

[0078] (Step S108) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 determines whether or not it has received the specification of the available period. If it determines that it has received the specification of the available period (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S109. If it determines that it has not received the specification of the available period (NO), server 5 executes the process in step S110.

[0079] (Step S109) The coupon information registration unit 504 of server 5 associates the specified availability period with the product information specified in step S101 as a condition for use.

[0080] (Step S110) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 determines whether or not it has received a specification of a payment method (for example, using a specific payment method (for example, electronic money such as house pay or transportation IC pay) for payment). If it determines that it has received a specification of a payment method (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S111. If it does not determine that it has received a specification of a payment method (NO), server 5 executes the process in step S112.

[0081] (Step S111) The coupon information registration unit 504 of server 5 associates the specified payment method with the product information specified in step S101 as a condition for use.

[0082] (Step S112) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 determines whether or not it has received the designation of an available area. If it determines that it has received the designation of an available area (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S113. If it does not determine that it has received the designation of an available area (NO), server 5 executes the process in step S114.

[0083] (Step S113) The coupon information registration unit 504 of server 5 associates the specified usable region with the product information specified in step S101 as a usage condition.

[0084] (Step S114) The coupon information registration unit 504 determines whether the process of specifying the terms of use is ongoing. If it determines that the process of specifying the terms of use is ongoing (YES), the server 5 executes the process in step S102. If it does not determine that the process of specifying the terms of use is ongoing (NO), the server 5 executes the process in step S115.

[0085] (Step S115) The coupon information registration unit 504 of server 5 registers the product information specified in step S101 and the usage conditions associated with the product information in the processing from steps S102 to S114 as coupon information. The coupon information registered by the coupon information registration unit 504 is stored in the second database DB2 in association with the identification information of the second user specified in step S102.

[0086] Note that the second user (retail company), number of issued items, discount amount or discount rate, availability period, payment method, and available region do not necessarily have to be mapped in the order shown in Figure 7, and the order of mapping may be changed.

[0087] (Coupon information acquisition process) Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the coupon information acquisition process by the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. The coupon information acquisition process by the information processing system 1 will be described below.

[0088] (Step S201) The first user accesses the second database on the server 5 by operating the input device 300C on the second terminal 3. Coupon information is displayed on the display device 300D on the second terminal 3. Alternatively, the first user may input search criteria for coupon information, and the server 5 may search the second database for coupon information that meets the search criteria and send it to the second terminal 3.

[0089] (Step S202) The first user operates the input device 300C of the second terminal 3 to specify the coupon information they wish to obtain from the coupon information displayed on the display device 300D. The transmission unit 302 of the second terminal 3 transmits the specified coupon information to the server 5.

[0090] (Step S203) The receiving unit 501 of server 5 receives the coupon information specification sent from the second terminal 3.

[0091] (Step S204) The storage control unit 503 of server 5 stores the specified coupon information in the first database, associating it with the first user who specified the coupon information, based on the coupon information specification received by the receiving unit 301. As a result, the first user is in a state where they have acquired the specified coupon information, in other words, the specified coupon information is available for use.

[0092] (Coupon information usage processing) Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of coupon information utilization processing by the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. The coupon information utilization processing by the information processing system 1 will be described below.

[0093] (Step S301) The first user operates the input device 300C of the second terminal 3 to display a first code, which is the first user's identification information. The first user's operation is received by the input reception unit 304 of the second terminal 3, and the display device control unit 305 displays the first code on the display device 300D based on the operation received by the input reception unit 304.

[0094] (Step S302) The first code displayed on the display device 300D of the second terminal 3 is read by the scanner device 200F of the first terminal 2 and transmitted to the server 5 by the transmitter 202 of the first terminal 2. The receiver 501 of the server 5 receives the first code transmitted from the first terminal 2. The transmitter 202 of the first terminal 2 also transmits its own terminal ID along with the first code.

[0095] (Step S303) The identification unit 508 of server 5 identifies the first user based on the first code it receives.

[0096] (Step S304) Furthermore, the scanner device 200F of the first terminal 2 reads the product code (e.g., JAN code) of the product purchased by the first user, and the transmitting unit 202 of the first terminal 2 transmits it to the server 5. The receiving unit 501 of the server 5 receives the product code transmitted from the third terminal 4.

[0097] (Step S305) The identification unit 508 of server 5 refers to the third database and identifies the product corresponding to the received product code based on the product master information. Next, the identification unit 508 refers to the first database and identifies coupon information that can be used for the identified product from the coupon information acquired by the identified first user.

[0098] (Step S306) The transmission unit 502 of server 5 transmits the coupon information identified by the identification unit 508 to the first terminal 2. If no coupon information is available for the product identified in step S305, the transmission unit 502 of server 5 transmits information indicating that no coupon information exists.

[0099] (Step S307) The receiving unit 201 of the first terminal 2 receives coupon information or information indicating that no coupon information exists, which has been sent from the server 5. Based on the information received by the receiving unit 201 (coupon information or information indicating that no coupon information exists), the first terminal 2 performs accounting processing for the goods.

[0100] (Step S308) The configuration unit 509 of server 5 sets the status of the used coupon information to "used". For example, the configuration unit 509 removes the association between the used coupon information and the first user. As a result, the transmission unit 502 is unable to send the coupon information that the configuration unit 509 has set to "used" to the second terminal 3. Consequently, the used coupon information is no longer displayed on the display device 300D of the second terminal 3. In other words, the display of used coupon information on the display device 300D of the second terminal 3 is restricted.

[0101] (Step S309) The storage control unit 503 of server 5 stores information such as the product code, date and time, and terminal ID (which identifies the store where the purchase was made), transmitted from the first terminal 2 along with the coupon usage information, as purchase history information associated with the first user in the first database.

[0102] (Change of Terms of Use) Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the usage conditions change process by the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. The usage conditions change process by the information processing system 1 will be described below.

[0103] (Step S401) The inventory information acquisition unit 505 of server 5 determines whether or not inventory information has been acquired. If it determines that inventory information has been acquired (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S402. If it determines that inventory information has not been acquired (NO), server 5 terminates the process.

[0104] (Step S402) The modification unit 506 of server 5 determines whether or not it is necessary to change the terms of use of the coupon information. For example, the modification unit 506 determines whether or not there is coupon information that includes product information for products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory at a predetermined date and time exceeds a predetermined threshold) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining time until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time is less than a predetermined threshold). If it is determined that it is necessary to change the terms of use of the coupon information (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S403. If it is determined that it is not necessary to change the terms of use of the coupon information (NO), server 5 terminates the process.

[0105] (Step S403) The modification unit 506 of server 5 modifies the usage conditions of coupon information based on the inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505. The method of changing the usage conditions of coupon information by the modification unit 506 has already been explained, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0106] As previously mentioned, if there are products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory exceeds a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining time until the expiration date is less than a predetermined threshold at a predetermined date and time), the server 5 may determine whether coupon information including the product information for those products is registered in the second database. If coupon information including the product information for those products is registered, the server 5 may be configured to accept changes to the coupon information usage conditions by a second user, and a notification unit may be provided to notify the third terminal 4 whether or not to change the usage conditions of the coupon information.

[0107] (Coupon information generation process) Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the coupon information generation process by the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. The coupon information generation process by the information processing system 1 will be described below.

[0108] (Step S501) The inventory information acquisition unit 505 of server 5 determines whether or not inventory information has been acquired. If it determines that inventory information has been acquired (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S502. If it determines that inventory information has not been acquired (NO), server 5 terminates the process.

[0109] (Step S502) The generation unit 507 of server 5 determines whether or not it is necessary to generate coupon information. For example, the generation unit 507 determines whether or not there are products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory at a predetermined date and time exceeds a predetermined threshold) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining time until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time is less than a predetermined threshold). If it is determined that it is necessary to issue coupon information (YES), server 5 executes the process in step S503. If it is determined that it is not necessary to issue coupon information (NO), server 5 terminates the process.

[0110] (Step S503) The generation unit 507 of server 5 generates coupon information based on the inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505. The coupon information generated by the generation unit 507 is registered by the coupon information registration unit 504. The coupon information registered by the coupon information registration unit 504 is stored in the second database DB2 in association with the identification information of the second user. The method of generating coupon information by the generation unit 507 has already been explained, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0111] As previously mentioned, if there are products with a large inventory (for example, products whose inventory at a predetermined date and time exceeds a predetermined threshold) or products with an approaching expiration date (for example, products whose remaining time until the expiration date at a predetermined date and time is less than a predetermined threshold), the system may be configured to include a notification unit that notifies the third terminal 4 whether or not the server 5 will issue coupon information for such products, and to accept registration of coupon information by a second user.

[0112] As described above, the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment includes a first terminal 2 equipped with a transmission unit 202 that transmits a first code (user information) and a product code (product information), The server 5 (information processing device) comprises: a receiving unit 501 that receives a first code and product code transmitted from a first terminal 2; a identifying unit 508 that refers to a first database (storage unit) which stores the first code and coupon information acquired by a first user, and identifies coupon information that can be used for products corresponding to the product code received by the receiving unit 501 from among the coupon information acquired by the first user; a transmitting unit 502 that transmits the coupon information identified by the identifying unit 508 to the first terminal 2; and a setting unit 509 that sets the status of the coupon information identified by the identifying unit 508 from among the coupon information acquired by the user stored in the first database to "used". Therefore, it is highly convenient because users do not need to display each coupon they wish to use individually, and can access coupon information simply by presenting the identification information (first code) of the consumer (first user).

[0113] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes a second terminal 3 equipped with a display device 300D (display unit) for displaying coupon information. The transmission unit 502 of the server 5 (information processing device) does not transmit the coupon information that the setting unit 509 has set to used to the second terminal 3. Therefore, used coupon information is not displayed on the second terminal 3, preventing the first user from mistakenly believing that a used coupon is unused and attempting to purchase a product, thus offering high convenience.

[0114] Furthermore, in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment, the coupon information includes information specifying the payment method when using the coupon information. Therefore, since the payment method when using the coupon information is specified, it is highly convenient. For example, by limiting the payment method to a prepaid card issued by the retailer (house prepaid card), the retailer can retain customers, which is highly convenient.

[0115] Furthermore, the server 5 (information processing device) of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes an inventory information acquisition unit 505 that acquires store inventory information, and a generation unit 507 that generates coupon information or a modification unit 506 that changes the usage conditions of the coupon information based on the inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit 505. Therefore, it is highly convenient because the usage conditions of the coupon information can be flexibly changed or the coupon information can be generated based on the inventory information of the products.

[0116] Furthermore, in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment, the inventory information includes the expiration date or best-before date of the products. Therefore, it is highly convenient because it is possible to change the terms of use for coupon information or generate coupon information when there are products nearing their expiration date or best-before date (for example, products where the period until the expiration date or best-before date at a specified date and time is less than a specified threshold).

[0117] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, the transmission unit 502 of the server 5 (information processing device) does not transmit the coupon information that the setting unit 509 has set to "used" to the second terminal 3, thereby preventing the used coupon information from being displayed on the second terminal 3. However, the transmission unit 502 of the server 5 (information processing device) may send the coupon information that the setting unit 509 has set to "used" to the second terminal 3, and the second terminal 3 may prevent the used coupon information from being displayed by deleting the used coupon information sent from the server 5 from the storage device 300B or restricting its display on the display device 300D (display unit). In this case, the second terminal 3 will have available coupon information stored in it.

[0118] Furthermore, the identification information of the first user of this information processing system 1 may be shared (linked) with the membership information of each retail company. For example, by linking the application software of this information processing system 1 with the membership systems of each retail company via API, by presenting the identification information (first code) of the first user of this information processing system 1, users can receive benefits that each retail company provides to its members, such as the addition of points to the user's point card, which is highly convenient. Also, for example, if linked with any electronic money (payment method or means), if coupon information for soft drinks is obtained, the system may be configured so that when the target soft drink is purchased using the electronic money at a vending machine that accepts the electronic money, the discount specified in the coupon information will be applied. Furthermore, by linking the application software of this information processing system 1 with the membership systems and electronic money of each retail company via API, it is possible to identify the first user's identification information (first code) of this information processing system 1 from the member ID of each retail company's membership system (for example, HousePay or electronic money such as transportation IC payments). Therefore, by presenting the member ID of each retail company's membership system (for example, HousePay or electronic money such as transportation IC payments), users can utilize the benefits available through the application software of this information processing system 1, such as acquired coupon information. [Industrial applicability]

[0119] As described above, the present invention can provide an information processing system, an information processing method, and an information processing program that offer greater convenience. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 1: Information Processing System 2: First terminal (POS register) 3: Second terminal 4: Third terminal 5: Server 6: Network 200A: Communication IF 200B: Storage device 200C: Input device 200D:Display device 200E: CPU 200F: Scanner device 201: Receiving Unit 202: Transmitter 203: Storage Unit 204: Input Reception Section 205: Display device control unit 206: Scanner device control unit 300A: Communication IF 300B: Storage device 300C: Input device 300D:Display device 300E: CPU 301: Receiving Unit 302: Transmitter 303: Memory Unit Control 304: Input Reception Section 305: Display device control unit 500A: Communication Interface 500B: Storage device 500C: CPU 501: Receiving Unit 502: Transmitter 503: Storage Unit 504: Coupon Information Registration Department 505: Inventory Information Acquisition Department 506: Changes 507 :Generation part 508: Specific part 509: Settings Section

Claims

1. A first terminal equipped with a transmission unit for transmitting user information and product information, A receiving unit that receives the user information and product information transmitted from the first terminal, A storage unit that stores the user information and the coupon information acquired by the user, and a selection unit that identifies coupon information from the coupon information acquired by the user that is usable for the product corresponding to the product information received by the receiving unit, A transmission unit that transmits the coupon information identified by the identification unit to the first terminal that performs settlement processing for the product, An information processing device comprising: a setting unit that sets the status of coupon information identified by the identification unit to "used" among the coupon information acquired by the user stored in the storage unit; An information processing system characterized by comprising the following:

2. The system comprises a second terminal equipped with a display unit for displaying the aforementioned coupon information, The transmission unit of the aforementioned information processing device is The setting unit does not send the coupon information that it has set to used to the second terminal. The information processing system according to feature 1.

3. The system comprises a second terminal equipped with a display unit for displaying the aforementioned coupon information, The transmission unit of the aforementioned information processing device is The setting unit sends the coupon information, which it has set to used, to the second terminal. The aforementioned second terminal is, By deleting the coupon information set to "used" transmitted from the information processing device from the storage unit or restricting its display on the display unit, the coupon information set to "used" transmitted from the information processing device is not displayed on the display unit. The information processing system according to feature 1.

4. The coupon information includes information specifying the payment method used by the user when using the coupon information. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The coupon information includes information specifying two or more sellers who sell the product covered by the coupon information. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The aforementioned information processing device is The inventory information acquisition unit acquires store inventory information, Based on the inventory information acquired by the inventory information acquisition unit, a generation unit generates the coupon information or a modification unit changes the terms of use of the coupon information. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by comprising:

7. The aforementioned inventory information includes: The expiration date or best-before date of the product is included. The information processing system according to feature 6.

8. The receiving unit has the step of receiving user information and product information transmitted from the first terminal, The process involves the identification unit referring to a storage unit that stores the user information and the coupon information acquired by the user, and identifying the coupon information from the coupon information acquired by the user that is usable for the product corresponding to the product information received by the receiving unit, The transmission unit transmits the coupon information identified by the identification unit to the first terminal which processes the payment for the product, The setting unit performs the step of setting the status of the coupon information identified by the identification unit to "used" among the coupon information acquired by the user stored in the storage unit, An information processing method characterized by having the following features.

9. Computers, A receiving unit that receives user information and product information transmitted from the first terminal. A specific unit refers to a storage unit that stores the user information and the coupon information acquired by the user, and identifies coupon information from the coupon information acquired by the user that is usable for the product corresponding to the product information received by the receiving unit. A transmission unit transmits the coupon information identified by the identification unit to a first terminal that performs settlement processing for the product. A setting unit sets the status of the coupon information identified by the identification unit to "used" among the coupon information acquired by the user stored in the storage unit. An information processing program characterized by functioning as such.

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