Programs, methods, information processing devices, systems

Abstract

To propose the effective use of digital signage to convey the intention of a shop to a customer.SOLUTION: A program is to be executed by a computer comprising a processor and memory. The program causes the processor to execute the steps of: receiving, from a manager in a shop, a preset number of selection for commodity categories representing classification of commodities; and displaying, on digital signage, a first image related to commodities belonging to, of the selected commodity categories, a commodity category designated by a user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There has been proposed a technique for displaying information on products that cannot be fully displayed at the storefront on a PC in the store (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Document 1, since the purpose is to display information on products that cannot be fully displayed at the storefront, it cannot reflect the products that the store wants to sell. Therefore, the store's recommendations cannot be clearly presented to customers.

[0005] <00​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This disclosure suggests that effective use of digital signage can be proposed to communicate the store's intentions to customers. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of System 1. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the digital signage 10. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the first server 20. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the second server 30. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the third server 40. [Figure 6] This diagram shows the data structure of the content information table 2023 stored by the first server 20. [Figure 7] This diagram shows the data structure of product information table 3021. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the data structure of character information table 3022. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the data structure of the configuration information table 4021. [Figure 10] This diagram shows the data structure of the first log information table 4022. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the data structure of the second log information table 4023. [Figure 12] This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of System 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a diagram illustrating an example of processing in System 1 of this embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the installation of digital signage 10 in a store. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the digital signage 10 in setting mode. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of how the digital signage 10 displays when one product category is selected. [Figure 17] It is a schematic diagram showing an example display of the digital signage 10 when detailed news information is displayed. [Figure 18] It is a schematic diagram showing an example display of the digital signage 10 when detailed product information is displayed. [Figure 19] It is a schematic diagram showing an example display of the digital signage 10 when posted information is displayed. [Figure 20] It is a schematic diagram showing an example display of the digital signage 10 when detailed posted information is displayed. [Figure 21] It is a schematic diagram showing an example display of the digital signage 10 when video information is displayed. [Figure 22] It is a schematic diagram showing an example display of the digital signage 10 when video information is displayed. [Figure 23] It is a diagram for explaining the purchase process by the second server 30. [Figure 24] It is a diagram for explaining other examples of the purchase process by the second server 30. [Figure 25] It is a schematic diagram showing other example displays of the digital signage 10 in the setting mode. [Figure 26] It is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of the computer 90.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described while referring to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] <Summary> The system according to this embodiment is constructed, for example, in a store where customers can shop. The system displays products belonging to a predetermined product category on digital signage. In this embodiment, a product category is a category for classifying products, and includes, for example, the following: ·character • Character attributes (type, race, etc.) • Types of products

[0011] The system displays content on digital signage that is likely to pique users' interest in products. The digital signage displays products by category, along with content information including news, posts, and videos. Digital signage settings are shared among the signage units, allowing for the creation of more effective configurations. This enables the effective use of digital signage to communicate the store's intentions to customers. Ideally, the stores where the digital signage is installed should be retail stores that sell some of the products available on e-commerce sites.

[0012] <1 System Configuration Diagram> Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of System 1. System 1 shown in Figure 1 includes, for example, a digital signage 10, a first server 20, a second server 30, a third server 40, and a terminal device 50. The first server 20, the second server 30, and the third server 40 communicate with each other via, for example, a network 80.

[0013] Figure 1 shows an example where System 1 includes one digital signage 10, but the number of digital signage 10 included in System 1 is not limited to one. System 1 may include one or more digital signage 10. Multiple digital signage 10 may be installed in one store, or one may be installed in each of multiple stores.

[0014] Figure 1 shows an example where System 1 includes one first server 20, one second server 30, and one third server 40. However, the number of first servers 20, second servers 30, and third servers 40 included in System 1 is not limited to one. The first server 20, second server 30, and third server 40 may consist of multiple servers depending on the functions they have. Alternatively, the first server 20, second server 30, and third server 40 may be, for example, a collection of multiple devices. The method of allocating the multiple functions required to implement the first server 20, second server 30, and third server 40 according to this embodiment to one or more hardware can be appropriately determined in consideration of the processing capacity of each hardware and / or the specifications required for the first server 20, second server 30, and third server 40.

[0015] Figure 1 shows an example where System 1 includes one terminal device 50, but the number of terminal devices 50 included in System 1 is not limited to one. System 1 may include one or more terminal devices 50.

[0016] The digital signage 10 shown in Figure 1 is an information processing device that, for example, displays a predetermined image related to a product and provides the user with information desired by the user regarding the product. The digital signage 10 comprises, for example, a communication interface (IF), an input device, an output device, memory, storage, and a processor. The input device is a device for receiving input operations from the user (e.g., a touch panel, touchpad, etc.). The output device is a device for presenting information to the user (e.g., a display, speaker, etc.). The digital signage 10 is installed, for example, in a store. More specifically, the digital signage 10 is installed, for example, by being embedded in the wall of the store. The digital signage 10 can be used, for example, as a product shelf for introducing products.

[0017] The first server 20 is an information processing device that controls the display of information on the digital signage 10. The first server 20 is implemented, for example, by a computer connected to the network 80. As shown in Figure 1, the first server 20 includes a communication IF 22, an input / output IF 23, a memory 25, a storage 26, and a processor 29. The input / output IF 23 functions as an interface to an input device for receiving input operations from the user and an output device for presenting information to the user.

[0018] The second server 30 is an information processing device that manages various information related to products or characters. This information includes, for example, information about products, news about products or events, and information about characters. Furthermore, the second server 30 is an information processing device that operates an e-commerce site and provides services related to online shopping.

[0019] The second server 30 is implemented, for example, by a computer connected to the network 80. The second server 30 includes, for example, a communication interface, an input / output interface, memory, storage, and a processor, similar to the first server 20.

[0020] The third server 40 is an information processing device that analyzes the effects of the display by the digital signage 10. The third server 40 is implemented, for example, by a computer connected to the network 80. The third server 40 includes, for example, a communication interface, an input / output interface, memory, storage, and a processor, similar to the first server 20.

[0021] The terminal device 50 is, for example, an information processing device operated by a customer visiting the store. The terminal device 50 can be implemented as, for example, a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. The terminal device 50 may also be a wearable device such as an HMD (Head Mount Display). The terminal device 50 may be owned by the customer, or it may be lent to the customer by the store. When the store lends the terminal device 50 to the customer, the store may associate the terminal device 50 with the customer's information at the time of lending.

[0022] Each information processing device consists of a computer equipped with an arithmetic unit and a memory device. The basic hardware configuration of the computer and the basic functional configuration of the computer realized by said hardware configuration will be described later. For each of the first server 20, second server 30, third server 40, and terminal device 50, explanations that overlap with the basic hardware configuration and basic functional configuration of the computer described later will be omitted.

[0023] <1.1 Terminal Device Configuration> Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the digital signage 10 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the digital signage 10 includes a communication unit 120, an input device 13, an output device 14, an audio processing unit 17, a microphone 171, a speaker 172, a camera 160, a location information sensor 150, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. Each block included in the terminal device 50 is electrically connected, for example, by a bus. Note that the audio processing unit 17, microphone 171, speaker 172, camera 160, and location information sensor 150 are not mandatory components.

[0024] The communication unit 120 performs modulation and demodulation processing for the digital signage 10 to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 120 performs transmission processing on the signal generated by the control unit 190 and transmits it to an external source (for example, the third server 40). The communication unit 120 performs reception processing on the signal received from an external source (for example, the first server 20) and outputs it to the control unit 190.

[0025] The input device 13 is a device for a user operating the digital signage 10 to input instructions or information. The input device 13 can be implemented, for example, by a touch-sensitive device 131 that inputs instructions by touching the operating surface. The input device 13 converts the instructions input by the user into electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals to the control unit 190. The input device 13 may also include, for example, a receiving port that accepts electrical signals input from an external input device.

[0026] The output device 14 is a device for presenting information to the user operating the digital signage 10. The output device 14 is implemented by, for example, a display 141. The display 141 displays data according to the control of the control unit 190. The display 141 is implemented by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0027] The audio processing unit 17 performs, for example, digital-to-analog conversion processing of the audio signal. The audio processing unit 17 converts the signal provided from the microphone 171 into a digital signal and provides the converted signal to the control unit 190. The audio processing unit 17 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 172. The audio processing unit 17 is implemented, for example, by an audio processing processor. The microphone 171 receives an audio input and provides the audio signal corresponding to that audio input to the audio processing unit 17. The speaker 172 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 17 into sound and outputs the sound to the outside of the digital signage 10.

[0028] Camera 160 is a device that receives light using a photodetector and outputs it as a shooting signal.

[0029] The location information sensor 150 is a sensor that detects the position of the digital signage 10, and is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. A GPS module is a receiving device used in a satellite positioning system. In a satellite positioning system, signals are received from at least three or four satellites, and based on the received signals, the current position of the digital signage 10, which is equipped with a GPS module, is detected. The location information sensor 150 may also detect the current position of the digital signage 10 from the position of the wireless base station to which the digital signage 10 is connected.

[0030] The storage unit 180 is implemented by, for example, memory and storage, and stores data and programs used by the digital signage 10. The storage unit 180 stores, for example, identification information 181, setting information 182, and first log information 184.

[0031] The identification information 181 includes, for example, information for identifying the digital signage 10. The information for identifying the digital signage 10 includes, for example, the identification ID, model number, manufacturer, date of manufacture, and date of installation of the digital signage 10.

[0032] The configuration information 182 includes, for example, information set for the digital signage 10. The set information includes, for example, information about the store where the digital signage 10 is installed, information about the background of the digital signage 10, information about the product category, information about the type of information to be displayed, information about the information actually to be displayed, and information about the format of the information to be displayed.

[0033] The first log information 184 includes information about the user's operation of the digital signage 10. The information about the operation log includes, for example, information about the image (page) that the user displayed on the digital signage 10. Specifically, the information about the operation log includes information that identifies the information contained in the image displayed on the digital signage 10, and the date and time when the user displayed the image.

[0034] The control unit 190 is realized when the processor 19 reads a program stored in the memory unit 180 and executes instructions contained in the program. The control unit 190 controls the operation of the digital signage 10. By operating according to the program, the control unit 190 performs the functions of an operation reception unit 191, a transmission / reception unit 192, and a display control unit 193.

[0035] The operation reception unit 191 processes instructions or information input from the input device 13. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives instructions or information input from a touch-sensitive device 131 or the like.

[0036] Furthermore, the operation reception unit 191 receives images input from the camera 160. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives the image data captured by the camera 160.

[0037] Furthermore, the operation reception unit 191 receives voice information input from the microphone 171. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives voice data input from the microphone 171 and converted into digital data by the voice processing unit 17.

[0038] The transmitting / receiving unit 192 performs processing to enable the digital signage 10 to send and receive data with external devices such as the first server 20 and the third server 40 in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 receives information output from the first server 20. The transmitting / receiving unit 192 also transmits information set for the digital signage 10, i.e., setting information 182, to the third server 40. Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 transmits information about the user's operation of the digital signage 10 to the third server 40.

[0039] The display control unit 193 controls the output device 14 to display a predetermined image to the user. For example, the display control unit 193 displays an image on the display 141 based on information provided by the first server 20. More specifically, for example, the display control unit 193 requests an image from the first server 20 related to information specified by the user via the digital signage 10. In response to the request, the display control unit 193 displays an image on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20.

[0040] Furthermore, the display control unit 193 may generate effects corresponding to the user's identification information. Specifically, for example, the digital signage 10 causes the user to send their identification information to a predetermined server (for example, the first server 20). The first server 20 is configured to generate effects based on the user's identification information. The first server 20 sends information to the digital signage 10 for displaying the generated effects. The display control unit 193 displays an image on the display 141 based on the information sent from the first server 20.

[0041] <1.2 Functional Configuration of the First Server> Figure 3 shows an example of the functional configuration of the first server 20. As shown in Figure 3, the first server 20 functions as a communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a control unit 203.

[0042] The communications unit 201 performs processing to enable the first server 20 to communicate with external devices.

[0043] The memory unit 202 includes, for example, a product information table 2021, a character information table 2022, a content information table 2023, a setting information table 2024, and so on.

[0044] Product information table 2021 is a table that stores information about products. Product information table 2021 includes, for example, information that corresponds to the information set for the digital signage 10, from the information stored in product information table 3021 stored on the second server 30.

[0045] The character information table 2022 is a table that stores information about a character. For example, the character information table 2022 includes information that corresponds to the information set for the digital signage 10, which is stored in the character information table 3022 stored in the second server 30.

[0046] The content information table 2023 is a table that stores information about content. This information includes posted information, news information, video information, or at least a combination of these. Posted information is, for example, information posted by a third party on a designated posting service such as Twitter®. Posted information includes, for example, information about documents or images. The content information table 2023 stores, for example, posted information stored on a server providing a posting service that is related to the information set for the digital signage 10. The content information table 2023 may also store posted information that is replicated from the server providing the posting service to the second server 30 and is related to the information set for the digital signage 10.

[0047] News information includes, for example, information about news written about products or characters. News images include, for example, information about documents or images. Content information table 2023 stores, for example, news information stored on the second server 30 that is related to the information set for the digital signage 10.

[0048] Video information refers to information about videos uploaded by third parties to a designated video service, such as YouTube (registered trademark). Content information table 2023 stores, for example, video information stored on the server providing the video service that is related to the information set for the digital signage 10. In addition, content information table 2023 may also store video information that is related to the information set for the digital signage 10 from the information copied from the server providing the video service to the second server 30. Details about content information table 2023 will be described later.

[0049] The configuration information table 2024 is a table that stores information configured for the digital signage 10, managed, for example, by the first server 20. The configuration information table 2024 stores information that identifies the digital signage 10, information that identifies the store, information that identifies the background image of the digital signage 10, information that represents the product category set for the digital signage 10, information that represents the type of information about the set product category, information that represents the details of the information to be displayed for the set product category, and information that represents the display format of the information to be displayed for the set product category.

[0050] The control unit 203 is realized when the processor 29 reads a program stored in the memory unit 202 and executes instructions contained in the program. By operating according to the program, the control unit 203 performs the functions of a receive control module 2031, a transmit control module 2032, a setting module 2033, and a display control module 2034.

[0051] The receiving control module 2031 controls the process by which the first server 20 receives signals from an external device according to a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the receiving control module 2031 receives information related to the display on the digital signage 10 from the information stored in the second server 30. The receiving control module 2031 may also obtain information from the second server 30 using an API (Application Programming Interface). Alternatively, the receiving control module 2031 may extract and obtain information related to the display on the digital signage 10 in a format compatible with the display on the digital signage 10 by scraping. Furthermore, for example, the receiving control module 2031 may receive information related to display on the digital signage 10 from a server that provides posting services. Also, for example, the receiving control module 2031 may receive information related to display on the digital signage 10 from a server that provides video services.

[0052] The transmission control module 2032 controls the process by which the first server 20 transmits signals to external devices according to a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmission control module 2032 transmits information related to the image to be displayed to the digital signage 10.

[0053] The configuration module 2033 controls the process of setting the display content for the digital signage 10. Specifically, the configuration module 2033 presents the administrator of the digital signage 10 with a display for selecting the display content. Based on the selection entered by the administrator, the configuration module 2033 sets the display content for the digital signage 10. The configuration module 2033 stores information about the selection entered by the administrator in the configuration information table 2024. The configuration module 2033 may also store information about the administrator who entered the selection content, linked to the information about the selection content, in the configuration information table 2024.

[0054] The display control module 2034 controls the digital signage 10 to display a predetermined image on it. For example, the display control module 2034 creates an image to be displayed on the digital signage 10 based on information stored in the memory unit 202. Specifically, the display control module 2034 creates an image using product information, character information, and content information based on the content specified by the user of the digital signage 10 and the settings stored in the setting information table 2024. The display control module 2034 extracts product information corresponding to the content specified by the user from the product information table 2021 and creates an image using the extracted information. The display control module 2034 extracts character information corresponding to the content specified by the user from the character information table 2022 and creates an image using the extracted information. The display control module 2034 extracts content information corresponding to the content specified by the user from the content information table 2023 and creates an image using the extracted information.

[0055] Furthermore, the display control module 2034 generates visual effects in accordance with predetermined information. This predetermined information includes, for example, the following: • Past product purchase history • A specified date (birthday, anniversary) • Number of past visits Favorite character ·weather

[0056] <1.3 Functional Configuration of the Second Server> Figure 4 shows an example of the functional configuration of the second server 30. As shown in Figure 4, the second server 30 functions as a communication unit 301, a storage unit 302, and a control unit 303.

[0057] The communication unit 301 performs processing to enable the second server 30 to communicate with external devices.

[0058] The memory unit 302 includes, for example, a product information table 3021, a character information table 3022, a second log information table 3023, and so on.

[0059] Product information table 3021 is a table that stores information about products. Further details will be provided later.

[0060] Character information table 3022 is a table that stores information about a character. Further details will be provided later.

[0061] The second log information table 3023 is a table that stores information about logs of users browsing the e-commerce site. Information about logs of browsing the e-commerce site includes, for example, information about products viewed by the user on the e-commerce site. For example, information about products viewed by the user on the e-commerce site includes the URL of the page viewed by the user on the e-commerce site and the date and time the user viewed that page. Also, for example, information about products viewed by the user on the e-commerce site may include information that identifies the product viewed by the user on the e-commerce site and the date and time the user viewed the page on which that product was displayed. Information about logs of browsing the e-commerce site may also include, for example, information that identifies the digital signage 10 to which the user was directed. Information about logs of browsing the e-commerce site may also include, for example, information that identifies the product category (character) that was selected on the digital signage 10 when the user was directed.

[0062] The control unit 303 is realized when the processor reads a program stored in the memory unit 302 and executes instructions contained in the program. By operating according to the program, the control unit 303 performs the functions of a receive control module 3031, a transmit control module 3032, and a purchase processing module 3033.

[0063] The receiving control module 3031 controls the process by which the second server 30 receives signals from an external device according to a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the receiving control module 3031 receives signals transmitted from the terminal device 50.

[0064] The transmission control module 3032 controls the process by which the second server 30 transmits signals to external devices according to a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmission control module 3032 transmits information to the first server 20 for displaying an image related to the content set on the digital signage 10. Also, for example, the transmission control module 3032 transmits information regarding the log of browsing the e-commerce site to the third server 40.

[0065] The purchase processing module 3033 controls the purchase process for goods in e-commerce. For example, the purchase processing module 3033 accepts payment by a predetermined method for goods selected by the user on an e-commerce site. Once the user's payment is complete, the purchase processing module 3033 notifies the accounting system of the store where the digital signage 10 is installed.

[0066] Furthermore, the purchase processing module 3033 may transmit information to the terminal device 50 indicating that a product has been purchased after the digital signage 10 has guided the user to the e-commerce site. The information indicating that a product has been purchased may be transmitted in a format that can be displayed using a predetermined code, such as a QR code (registered trademark) or a barcode, or in a format that can be transmitted via short-range wireless communication. The user possessing the terminal device 50 moves to the cash register counter of the store where the digital signage 10 is installed and provides the store clerk with information indicating that a product has been purchased. The purchase processing module 3033 may transmit the information indicating that a product has been purchased to a predetermined ticket machine (which may also be an accounting system) installed in the store, causing the ticket machine to issue a paper ticket with a predetermined code printed on it. The purchase processing module 3033 may, for example, notify the terminal device 50 that a benefit will be given when it provides information indicating that a product has been purchased to the accounting system.

[0067] Furthermore, the purchase processing module 3033 may authorize the user to purchase the product selected on the e-commerce site and have the user pay the fee at a physical store. Specifically, when the purchase processing module 3033 acquires the right to purchase a product after a user has been guided to the e-commerce site via the digital signage 10, it transmits information regarding the right to purchase the product to the terminal device 50 operated by the user. The information regarding the right to purchase the product includes information for paying the price of the product at the physical store's accounting system. The price of the product may include shipping costs for delivering the product to a location desired by the user. The information for paying the price of the product at the physical store's accounting system may be in a format that can be displayed using a predetermined code such as a QR code or barcode, or in a format that can be transmitted via short-range wireless communication. The physical store's accounting system reads the information regarding the right to purchase the product from the terminal device 50 and bills the user for the fee based on the information read. Once the price of the product has been paid, the physical store's accounting system notifies the second server 30 that the product has been purchased. <1.4 Functional Configuration of the Third Server> Figure 5 shows an example of the functional configuration of the third server 40. As shown in Figure 5, the third server 40 functions as a communication unit 401, a storage unit 402, and a control unit 403.

[0068] The communications unit 401 performs processing to enable the third server 40 to communicate with external devices.

[0069] The storage unit 402 includes, for example, a setting information table 4021, a first log information table 4022, a second log information table 4023, and so on.

[0070] The configuration information table 4021 is a table that stores the information set for the digital signage 10. Further details will be described later.

[0071] The first log information table 4022 is a table that stores information about user operations on the digital signage 10. Further details will be provided later.

[0072] The second log information table, 4023, is a table that stores information about user browsing logs on the e-commerce site. Further details will be provided later.

[0073] The control unit 403 is realized when the processor reads a program stored in the memory unit 402 and executes instructions contained in the program. By operating according to the program, the control unit 403 performs the functions of a receive control module 4031, a transmit control module 4032, an analysis module 4033, and a proposal module 4034.

[0074] The receiving control module 4031 controls the process by which the third server 40 receives signals from external devices according to a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the receiving control module 4031 receives information from the digital signage 10 regarding logs of user operations on the digital signage 10. Also, for example, the receiving control module 4031 receives information set for the digital signage 10 from the first server 20. Also, for example, the receiving control module 4031 receives information from the second server 30 regarding logs of user browsing an e-commerce site.

[0075] The transmission control module 4032 controls the process by which the third server 40 transmits signals to external devices according to a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmission control module 4032 transmits the analysis results regarding the settings of the digital signage 10 to the first server 20. The manager of the digital signage 10, such as the store operator or an employee, can check the analysis results from their own terminal or from the digital signage 10. The transmission control module 4032 also transmits recommended settings for the digital signage 10 to the first server 20. The manager of the digital signage 10 can check the recommended settings from their own terminal or from the digital signage 10.

[0076] The analysis module 4033 controls the process of analyzing operation logs. Specifically, for example, the analysis module 4033 analyzes the settings of the digital signage 10 that a user is interested in based on information about logs of user operation of the digital signage 10. Alternatively, for example, the analysis module 4033 analyzes the settings of the digital signage 10 that a user is interested in based on information about logs of user browsing the e-commerce site. The analysis module 4033 may also analyze the settings of the digital signage 10 that a user is interested in based on information from both logs. The analysis module 4033 may also analyze the settings of the digital signage 10 that a user is interested in based on the address where the digital signage 10 is installed.

[0077] The suggestion module 4034 controls the process of suggesting settings for the digital signage 10. Specifically, the suggestion module 4034 suggests recommended settings for the digital signage 10 based on the analysis results from the analysis module 4033. The suggestion module 4034 may also analyze the settings of the digital signage 10 that would interest users to products, taking into account the address where the digital signage 10 is installed.

[0078] <2 Data Structure> Figure 6 shows the data structure of the content information table 2023 stored by the first server 20. Note that Figure 6 is an example and does not exclude any data not shown. The content information table 2023 shown in Figure 6 is a table that uses content ID as the key and has columns such as content data, creation date and time, creator, tag information, and link information.

[0079] The Content ID is an item that stores an identifier to uniquely identify the content. For example, the Content ID is assigned to identify posted information, news information, and video information. The Content Data is an item that stores the content itself. For example, the Content Data stores document data and image data included in the content. The Content Data may also store reference information (paths) to data files stored elsewhere. The Creation Date and Time is an item that stores the date and time the content was created. The Creator is an item that stores information identifying the person who created the content. The Tag Information is an item that stores information about tags used to classify the content. Tags used to classify content include, for example, keywords containing hash marks. Information classified by tags includes, for example, the area related to the content, the product related to the content, the season related to the content, and the holidays related to the content. The Link Information is an item that stores links to access the content. For example, the Link Information is the URL of the content stored on the server.

[0080] Figure 7 shows the data structure of product information table 3021. Note that Figure 7 is an example and does not exclude data that is not shown. The product information table 3021 shown in Figure 7 is a table that uses product ID as the key and has columns such as product name, price, category, release date, expected arrival date, related character, image data, link information, and stock quantity.

[0081] The Product ID is an item that stores an identifier to uniquely identify a product. The Product Name is an item that stores the name of the product. The Price is an item that stores the price of the product. The Category is an item that stores the category of the product. The Release Date is an item that stores the date the product was released. The Expected Arrival Date is an item that stores the expected arrival date of the next shipment. The Related Character is an item that stores information about characters associated with the product. Related characters may be included in the product category. The Image Data is an item that stores an image of the product. The Image Data may also store reference information (path) to a data file stored elsewhere. The Link Information is an item that stores a link to access a site introducing the product. Link Information is, for example, the URL of a site introducing the product. The Stock Quantity is an item that stores the stock quantity of the product.

[0082] Figure 8 shows the data structure of the character information table 3022. Note that Figure 8 is an example and does not exclude any data not shown. The character information table 3022 shown in Figure 8 is a table that has columns such as character data and image data, with the character ID as the key.

[0083] The Character ID is an item that stores an identifier to uniquely identify a character. The Character Data is an item that stores data about the character. This data may include, for example, the character's number, name, and individual character information (classification, type, physical information, characteristics, etc.). The Image Data is an item that stores an image of the character. The Image Data may also store reference information (path) to a data file stored elsewhere.

[0084] Figure 9 shows the data structure of the configuration information table 4021. Note that Figure 9 is an example and does not exclude data that is not shown. The configuration information table 4021 shown in Figure 9 is a table that has columns such as store, background, selected character, display information, detailed information, and display format, with signage ID as the key. In addition to this information, the configuration information table 4021 shown in Figure 9 may also have an item that stores, for example, the location within the store where the signage 10 is installed.

[0085] The Signage ID field stores an identifier to uniquely identify the digital signage 10. The Store field stores information to identify the store. The Background field stores information to identify the background image set on the digital signage 10. The Selected Character field stores information to identify the character as a product category set for the digital signage 10. The Display Information field stores information representing the type of information to be displayed for the set product category (character). For example, the Display Information field can store one of the following: "Post," "News," or "Video." "Post" indicates that the information displayed on the digital signage 10 is post information. "News" indicates that the information displayed on the digital signage 10 is news information. "Video" indicates that the information displayed on the digital signage 10 is video information.

[0086] The detailed information field stores information that represents the details of the information to be displayed for the configured product category (character). For example, the detailed information stores information that identifies posts, news, and videos. The display format field stores information that represents the display format of the information to be displayed for the configured product category (character). For example, the display format stores either "image and text" or "image". "Image and text" indicates that the information will be displayed on the digital signage 10 with both an image and text. "Image" indicates that the information will be displayed on the digital signage 10 with only an image.

[0087] Figure 10 shows the data structure of the first log information table 4022. Note that Figure 10 is an example and does not exclude data that is not shown. The first log information table 4022 shown in Figure 10 is a table that has columns such as date and time, operation information, etc., with the signage ID as the key.

[0088] The date and time field stores the date and time when the user displayed an image (page) on the digital signage 10. The operation information field stores information that identifies the information contained in the image displayed on the digital signage 10. This information that identifies the information contained in the image displayed on the digital signage 10 includes, for example, identification information for posted information, identification information for news information, identification information for video information, identification information for product categories (characters), and identification information for products.

[0089] Figure 11 shows the data structure of the second log information table 4023. Note that Figure 11 is an example and does not exclude data that is not shown. The second log information table 4023 shown in Figure 11 is a table that has columns such as date and time, viewing information, etc., with the signage ID as the key.

[0090] The date and time field stores the date and time the user viewed a page on the e-commerce site. The browsing information field stores, for example, the URL of the page the user viewed on the e-commerce site. The browsing information may also store information identifying the product the user viewed on the e-commerce site. Furthermore, the browsing information may also store information indicating that a product was purchased on the e-commerce site.

[0091] <3 operations> This section describes the operation of a system that displays product information on digital signage 10 to promote product sales.

[0092] (Overall operation) Figure 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of System 1 in this embodiment. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing in System 1 in this embodiment. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the installation of digital signage 10 in a store. In the example shown in Figure 14, the digital signage 10 is installed so as to be embedded in the wall of the store. The digital signage 10 is installed, for example, next to a product shelf and can be treated as a digital shelf capable of displaying products.

[0093] In step S11, for example, the content displayed on the digital signage 10 is set by the store operator or an employee.

[0094] In step S12, the digital signage 10 notifies the first server 20 and the third server 40 of the configured information. The first server 20 stores the information regarding the settings of the digital signage 10, along with information about the person who configured the information, in the configuration information table 2024. The third server 40 stores the information regarding the settings of the digital signage 10, along with information about the person who configured the information, in the configuration information table 4021.

[0095] In step S13, the first server 20 outputs an instruction to the digital signage 10 to display product information at a predetermined timing. The first server 20 stores product information and content information provided by the second server 30. Of the content information, posted information and video information may be obtained from an external server. Based on the configuration information, the first server 20 extracts information related to product categories such as characters from the stored information and displays it on the digital signage 10.

[0096] In step S14, the digital signage 10 performs display processing. For example, the digital signage 10 displays information related to product categories. A user visiting the store operates the digital signage 10 so that the desired information is displayed on it. When a user specifies an individual product, the digital signage 10 reads an image of that product and a link to the e-commerce site that sells that product from the first server 20 and displays it. The link to the e-commerce site is represented, for example, by a predetermined code (for example, a QR code). The predetermined code includes, for example, the signage ID of the digital signage 10 and the character ID of the character representing the product category as parameters.

[0097] In step S15, the digital signage 10 notifies the third server 40 of the information operated by the user. The third server 40 stores information regarding the operation log of the digital signage 10 in the first log information table 4022.

[0098] When purchasing a product displayed on the digital signage 10, the user reads the code displayed on the digital signage 10 using the terminal device 50 and connects to the link represented by the read code. In step S16, the user connects to the second server 30, which operates the e-commerce site, using the terminal device 50. The second server 30 obtains the signage ID attached to the access information. Based on the obtained signage ID, the second server 30 determines which digital signage 10 the access was made through. Specifically, for example, in addition to identifying the individual digital signage 10, the second server 30 determines which store it is installed in, where it is located within the store, and who it is set up for.

[0099] In step S17, the second server 30 performs the purchase process. Specifically, for example, the second server 30 accepts payment for the product selected by the user on the e-commerce site. Once the user's payment is complete, the second server 30 stores the signage ID of the digital signage 10 that guided the user to the e-commerce site and the character ID as the product category in the second log information table 3023, associating them with the user's purchase.

[0100] Furthermore, the second server 30 notifies the accounting system of the store where the digital signage 10 that guided the user to the e-commerce site is installed that a product has been purchased. This makes it possible to link product purchases made through the e-commerce site with product purchases made at the physical store. In other words, sales of products made through the e-commerce site are linked to sales at the physical store.

[0101] Furthermore, the second server 30 may grant users the right to purchase selected products on the e-commerce site and allow them to pay for the products at a physical store. This makes purchases made through the e-commerce site equivalent to purchases made at a physical store. In other words, sales of products made through the e-commerce site are linked to sales at the physical store.

[0102] In step S18, the second server 30 notifies the third server 40 of information regarding the pages viewed by the user. The second server 30 also notifies the third server 40 of information indicating that a product has been purchased by the user. The third server 40 stores the information regarding the pages viewed by the user and the information indicating that a product has been purchased in the second log information table 4023.

[0103] In step S19, the third server 40 performs analysis processing using the analysis module 4033. Specifically, the analysis module 4033 analyzes information about user operations on multiple digital signage displays 10 stored in the first log information table 4022, and estimates the relationship between operations on the digital signage displays 10 and the settings of the digital signage displays 10. More specifically, for example, the analysis module 4033 estimates the settings of digital signage displays 10 that tend to receive a lot of user operations. At this time, the analysis module 4033 not only individually identifies the digital signage displays 10 that tend to receive a lot of user operations, but also estimates (determines) which stores the digital signage displays 10 that tend to receive a lot of user operations are installed in, where they are located within the stores, and who configured them.

[0104] Furthermore, for example, the analysis module 4033 analyzes information about user activity logs on the e-commerce site, which is stored in the second log information table 4023, and estimates the relationship between activity on the e-commerce site and the settings of the digital signage 10. More specifically, for example, the analysis module 4033 estimates the settings of digital signage 10 that tend to receive a high number of user views. The analysis module 4033 also estimates the settings of digital signage 10 that tend to receive a high number of product purchases. In this case, the analysis module 4033 not only individually identifies digital signage 10 that tend to receive a high number of user views or digital signage 10 that tend to receive a high number of product purchases, but also estimates (determines) which store such digital signage 10 is installed in, where it is located within the store, and who it was configured for.

[0105] The analysis module 4033 may estimate the settings of the digital signage 10 that the user is interested in, based on information from both logs. The analysis may utilize existing statistical methods.

[0106] In step S110, the third server 40 performs proposal processing using the proposal module 4034. For example, the proposal module 4034 extracts the settings of the digital signage 10 that are estimated to have contributed to product sales based on the analysis results in step S19. In this embodiment, the settings of the digital signage 10 that are estimated to have contributed to product sales are, for example, the following. • Settings estimated to be related to the increased number of operations on digital signage 10. • Settings estimated to be related to an increase in the average user time. • Settings estimated to be related to an increase in the number of accesses to the e-commerce site. • Settings estimated to be related to an increase in the number of pages viewed on e-commerce sites. • Settings estimated to be related to an increase in the number of product purchases on e-commerce sites.

[0107] The proposed module 4034 may extract the settings of multiple digital signage displays 10.

[0108] The proposed module 4034 may, for example, reward the person who discovered a setting that contributed to product sales. This would make it possible to improve the motivation of the person who created the settings for the digital signage 10.

[0109] In step S111, the third server 40 transmits the extracted settings for the digital signage 10 to the first server 20. At this time, the third server 40 may also transmit to the first server 20, along with the settings for the digital signage 10, the signage ID of the digital signage 10 to which the settings are applied, the area where the digital signage 10 is installed, the store, the person who set it up, etc.

[0110] The first server 20, using the display control module 2034, displays the settings proposed by the third server 40 on the digital signage 10 when configuring the digital signage 10. At this time, the display control module 2034 displays the settings of other digital signage 10 on the digital signage 10 in a predetermined order. For example, the display control module 2034 displays the settings of other digital signage 10 on the digital signage 10 in an order corresponding to the degree of contribution of the settings. The degree of contribution of the settings is obtained, for example, based on the contribution to product sales as described above. The display control module 2034 may also group together the settings of digital signage 10 configured by the same user and display them on the digital signage 10. At this time, the display control module 2034 may display the settings of other digital signage 10 on the digital signage 10 in a way that allows identification of the user who configured them. The display control module 2034 may also display the settings of other digital signage 10 on the digital signage 10 in chronological order of the dates they were configured. Furthermore, the display control module 2034 may group the settings of the digital signage 10s that are installed in the same area and display them on the digital signage 10. In this case, the display control module 2034 may display the settings of the other digital signage 10s on the digital signage 10 in a way that allows the installation area to be identified.

[0111] Furthermore, the display control module 2034 may display the settings in a manner that allows for the identification of their contribution. The display control module 2034 may also display how much effect can be expected from those settings. For example, the proposed module 4034 estimates how much the number of operations on the digital signage 10 will increase, how much the store's sales will increase, etc., based on its contribution to product sales. The proposed module 4034 estimates the expected effect using, for example, statistical methods or a trained model. The display control module 2034 displays the effect estimated by the proposed module 4034 along with the proposed settings.

[0112] (Display settings) The setting of the display content in step S11 will be explained in detail with an example. The digital signage 10 enters setting mode when a predetermined area on the display 141 is touched, for example. The predetermined area is, for example, an area that is not frequently touched by the user during normal use, such as the upper left or right area. The digital signage 10 may also have a physical button to enter setting mode, not limited to an area on the display 141. When the control unit 190 enters setting mode, it may notify the administrator that it has entered setting mode. This makes it possible for the administrator to be aware that someone other than the administrator has entered setting mode.

[0113] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the digital signage 10 in setting mode.

[0114] In the initial stage of the setting mode in the digital signage 10, the digital signage 10 displays areas 1411, 1412, and 1413 in Figure 15 via the display control unit 193. Area 1411 is the area where the signage ID is displayed.

[0115] Areas 1412 and 1413 are for selecting whether or not to display product information based on product categories on the digital signage 10. If "Display only background on signage" displayed in area 1412 is selected, the display control unit 193 will display only the background and not the product information. If "Display character information on signage" displayed in area 1413 is selected, the display control unit 193 will display information for setting details about the product category. The following example explains how to set the display content assuming the product category is a character.

[0116] When "Display character information on the signage" displayed in area 1413 is selected, the display control unit 193 displays areas 1414, 1415, and 1416. Area 1414 is for selecting a character. Area 1415 is for selecting a background. Area 1416 is for selecting character-related information as a product category. In this embodiment, multiple product categories can be set. The example shown in Figure 15 shows a case where there are six frames in which product categories can be set.

[0117] The administrator selects the characters to be assigned to each slot in area 1414. The administrator selects the desired characters from area 14141, where the selectable characters are displayed. The character images displayed in area 14141 are images read from the second server 30 and stored in the character information table 2022. The administrator selects the characters by operating the slider 14142. Once the administrator has selected a character, the selected character is displayed in area 14143.

[0118] The administrator selects a background for each frame in area 1415.

[0119] The administrator selects relevant information for each frame in area 1416. The display control unit 193 displays the area for selecting relevant information for each frame. Area 14161 is the area for selecting relevant information in the first frame. Area 14162 is the area for selecting relevant information in the second frame.

[0120] Area 14161 includes areas 141611, 141612, and 141613. Area 141611 is for selecting the type of information to display. Area 141612 is for selecting the information belonging to the selected type of information to actually display. Area 141613 is for selecting the display format.

[0121] The administrator selects one of the following in area 141611: for example, "Posts," "News," or "Videos." Once the type of information is selected, the display control unit 193 extracts information corresponding to the selected type from the content information table 2023. The display control unit 193 then lists and displays the extracted information. Specifically, if "Posts" is selected, the display control unit 193 displays the post information stored in the content information table 2023 in area 141612. Similarly, if "News" is selected, the display control unit 193 displays the news information stored in the content information table 2023 in area 141612. And if "Videos" is selected, the display control unit 193 displays the video information stored in the content information table 2023 in area 141612.

[0122] The administrator selects the information to be displayed on the digital signage 10 in area 141612. There is no upper limit to the information that can be selected, but the choice of information is at the administrator's discretion.

[0123] The administrator selects the display format in area 141613. The administrator selects either "Image and Text" or "Image Only". If "Image and Text" is selected, the display control unit 193 displays both images and text for the relevant information. If "Image Only" is selected, the display control unit 193 displays only images for the relevant information.

[0124] In region 1416, relevant information is selected for all frames. Although not shown in Figure 15, frames 2 to 6 also have regions 141611, 141612, and 141613, similar to frame 1.

[0125] The administrator completes the setup once they have configured the relevant information for frames 1 through 6.

[0126] In area 141612, when allowing the user to select the information to be displayed, the display control unit 193 may prioritize displaying information related to the digital signage 10 being configured. For example, the configuration module 2033 of the control unit 203 extracts content information suitable for the digital signage 10 from the content information table 2023 based on information used to classify content information, such as tag information, attached to the content information.

[0127] For example, the configuration module 2033 acquires tag information related to the digital signage 10 and the associated area based on the address of the store where the digital signage 10 is installed. The configuration module 2033 extracts content information to which the tag information related to the digital signage 10 and the associated area is attached. The configuration module 2033 also acquires tag information related to the day or season on which the digital signage 10 is set. The configuration module 2033 extracts content information to which the tag information related to the day or season is attached. The configuration module 2033 controls the digital signage 10 to arrange the extracted content information according to a predetermined priority and present it to the administrator. The predetermined priority represents, for example, a priority according to the type of classification. Specifically, content information related to the area is given a higher priority than content information related to the day or season.

[0128] Prioritizing the suggestion of area-specific content information makes it easier for store-specific content information to be displayed on the digital signage 10. This allows for store-specific differences, providing customers with an incentive to visit the stores. Furthermore, prioritizing the suggestion of content information related to the day or season makes it easier for timely information to be displayed on the digital signage 10.

[0129] The configuration module 2033 allows administrators to easily configure the display for each product category by selecting product categories that include characters. For example, an administrator can select a character that appeared in an anime broadcast yesterday and configure digital signage 10 the day after the broadcast to display information about that character. Similarly, an administrator can select a character that became a topic of discussion on social media, etc., immediately after it becomes a topic of discussion and configure digital signage 10 to display information about that character. In short, timely display changes are possible.

[0130] (Display processing) The display process in step S14 will be explained in detail, along with an example. In the digital signage 10, for example, multiple product categories are set up. In the following explanation, it will be assumed that six characters are set up as six product categories.

[0131] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display on the digital signage 10 when one product category is selected. In Figure 16, Pikachu is selected from among the six characters that have been set. The digital signage 10 displays information related to the selected Pikachu via the display control unit 193. In Figure 16, news information is set as the content information for Pikachu in frame 2, and the display format is set to "image and text".

[0132] The display control unit 193 may, for example, initially display six selectable characters. For example, the display control unit 193 may arrange six icons, each corresponding to a character, in a predetermined order and accept selection from the user. The display control unit 193 may also move each icon on the display 141 so that it stands out to the user.

[0133] As shown in Figure 16, the display control unit 193 displays areas 1421, 1422, 1423, icons 1424, and 1425 on the display 141. Area 1421 is an area for displaying information about a character. Area 1421 includes area 14211 for displaying the character's image, area 14212 for displaying the character's name and classification, etc., and area 14213 for displaying the character's description. The display control unit 193 reads and obtains information from the character information table 2022 and displays it in area 1421.

[0134] Area 1422 is an area for displaying news information as content information. In area 1422, multiple news items selected by the administrator are displayed. The news information is tagged with information such as goods, events, and campaigns. Users can move the slider 14221 up or down to display news information that does not fit in area 1422. The display control unit 193 reads the news information obtained from the content information table 2023 and displays it in area 1422.

[0135] Each news item contains document information and image information. The corresponding document and image information are, for example, arranged side-by-side. The news items are arranged in a predetermined order. This predetermined order could be, for example, by creation date, by category represented by tag information, by the number of requests for detailed information, or by an order set by the administrator. The document information displays, for example, the title of the news item.

[0136] When a user finds a news item of interest, they touch the area where the news is displayed. When the news display is touched, for example, the control unit 190 requests details of the corresponding information from the first server 20. The display control unit 193 displays an image on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20.

[0137] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the digital signage 10 when detailed news information is displayed. Based on the information provided by the first server 20, the display control unit 193 displays the detailed information of the news information selected by the user on the display 141. In the example in Figure 17, the display control unit 193 generates a modal window 14222 and displays the detailed news information in the modal window 14222.

[0138] The display control unit 193 displays a code in area 142221 for expanding the news information displayed in the modal window 14222 using a predetermined application. When a user reads the news information displayed in the modal window 14222 and wishes to share it with others using a predetermined application, they read the code in area 142221 using the terminal device 50 and share the information. By displaying the code in the modal window 14222, it becomes easier for users to share news information with others.

[0139] Returning to the explanation of Figure 16, area 1423 is the area for displaying product images. Area 1423 displays images of products associated with the character. The product images are based, for example, on images of products listed on an e-commerce site. The user can move the slider 14231 up or down to display product images that do not fit in area 1423. The display control unit 193 displays product images read from the product information table 2021 in area 1423.

[0140] The product images are arranged in a predetermined order. For example, the display control unit 193 arranges the product images together by product category. The display control unit 193 also arranges the product images in order from most recent to most recent release date. Furthermore, the display control unit 193 arranges the images of popular products in order of popularity based on sales data. The display control unit 193 may also arrange the product images randomly.

[0141] The display control unit 193 may add a mark to the image of a product that indicates whether or not the product is in stock at the store. The display control unit 193 may also add a mark to the image of a newly released product that indicates it is a new release.

[0142] The display control unit 193 may choose not to display images of products that are in stock at the store. This makes it possible to display products available in the store and products available for purchase on the e-commerce site separately, thus enabling the introduction of a wider range of products. Alternatively, the display control unit 193 may choose not to display images of products currently on display in the store. This prevents products actually on display in the store from being shown on the digital signage 10, allowing for more effective use of limited sales space.

[0143] When a user finds a product they are interested in, they touch the area where the product's image is displayed. When the product image is touched, for example, the control unit 190 requests detailed information about the corresponding product from the first server 20. The display control unit 193 displays an image on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20.

[0144] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the digital signage 10 when product details are displayed. The display control unit 193 displays the detailed information of the product selected by the user on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20. In the example in Figure 18, the display control unit 193 generates a modal window 14232 and displays the detailed product information in the modal window 14232.

[0145] The display control unit 193 displays a code (e.g., a QR code) in area 142321 for accessing the page on the e-commerce site for the product displayed in the modal window 14232. This code includes, for example, the signage ID of the digital signage 10 and the character ID of Pikachu.

[0146] The user checks the products displayed in the modal window 14232. If the user wishes to purchase from the e-commerce site or to check further information, the user reads the code in area 142321 using the terminal device 50 and accesses the e-commerce site. By displaying the code in the modal window 14232, the user can more easily obtain information about the desired product and the effort required to purchase from the e-commerce site is reduced. Furthermore, because the user accesses the e-commerce site by reading a code with a signage ID, the second server 30 can more easily determine which digital signage 10 the user was directed to access. Also, because the user accesses the e-commerce site by reading a code with a character ID, the second server 30 can more easily determine which character the user was directed to access.

[0147] Returning to the explanation of Figure 16, icon 1424 is an icon that prompts the user to touch the screen. The display control unit 193 may display icon 1424 at all times or at predetermined timings. The predetermined timings may be, for example, when there has been no user interaction with the digital signage 10 for a predetermined period of time.

[0148] Area 1425 is the area for representing the currently displayed character. In this embodiment, there are six frames, and the character set in each frame is displayed. In Figure 16, information about Pikachu, which is set in frame 2, is displayed, so icon 14252 is displayed larger than the other icons.

[0149] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of how the digital signage 10 displays when posted information is shown. In Figure 19, area 1426 for displaying posted information is shown instead of area 1422.

[0150] Area 1426 displays multiple posts selected by the administrator. Users can move the slider 14261 up or down to display posts that do not fit in area 1426. The display control unit 193 displays the post information read from the content information table 2023 in area 1426.

[0151] Each post contains document information and image information. Corresponding document and image information are, for example, arranged side-by-side. The posts are arranged in a predetermined order. This predetermined order could be, for example, by posting date, by category represented by tag information, by the number of reposts, or by an order set by the administrator. The document information includes, for example, the post title.

[0152] When a user finds a post of interest, they touch the area where the post is displayed. When the post display is touched, for example, the control unit 190 requests details of the corresponding information from the first server 20. The display control unit 193 displays an image on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20.

[0153] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the digital signage 10 when detailed information of a post is displayed. The display control unit 193 displays the detailed information of the post selected by the user on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20. In the example in Figure 20, the display control unit 193 generates a modal window 14262 and displays the detailed information of the post in the modal window 14262.

[0154] The display control unit 193 displays a code in area 142621 that allows the user to access the posted information displayed in the modal window 14262 from the terminal device 50. The user reads the posted information displayed in the modal window 14262. If the user wants to access the posted information from the terminal device 50, the user reads the code in area 142621 with the terminal device 50 and accesses the posted information. Displaying the code in the modal window 14262 makes it easier for the user to access the posted information.

[0155] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the digital signage 10 when video information is displayed. In Figure 21, area 1427 for displaying video information is displayed instead of area 1422 in Figure 16.

[0156] Area 1427 displays multiple video information selected by the administrator. The user can move the slider 14271 up or down to display video information that does not fit within area 1427. The display control unit 193 displays the video information read from the content information table 2023 in area 1427.

[0157] Video information is arranged in a predetermined order. This predetermined order may be, for example, by creation date, by category represented by tag information, by number of views, or by order set by the administrator. The video information may also display a representative image of the video.

[0158] When a user finds a video they are interested in, they touch the area where a representative image of that video is displayed. When the video display is touched, for example, the control unit 190 requests details of the corresponding information from the first server 20. The display control unit 193 displays an image on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20.

[0159] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the digital signage 10 when video information is displayed. The display control unit 193 displays the video information selected by the user on the display 141 based on the information provided by the first server 20. In the example in Figure 22, the display control unit 193 generates a modal window 14272 and displays the video information in the modal window 14272.

[0160] The display control unit 193 displays a code in area 142721 that allows the user to access the video information displayed in the modal window 14272 from the terminal device 50. The user views the video information displayed in the modal window 14272. If the user wishes to access the video information from the terminal device 50, the user reads the code in area 142721 with the terminal device 50 and accesses the video information. Displaying the code in the modal window 14272 makes it easier for the user to access the video information.

[0161] (Purchase Processing) Step S17, the purchase process, will be explained in detail.

[0162] Figure 23 is a diagram illustrating the purchase process by the second server 30. For example, the user accesses the e-commerce site by reading a code displayed in area 142321 shown in Figure 18 using the terminal device 50. The control unit 303 uses the purchase processing module 3033 to identify the digital signage 10 used by the user of the terminal device 50 from the signage ID attached to the access information. The purchase processing module 3033 also identifies the character displayed on the digital signage 10 from the character ID attached to the access information. The user operates the terminal device 50 and purchases products on the e-commerce site.

[0163] In step S21, when the user instructs to purchase a product, the purchase processing module 3033 accepts the payment procedure for the product selected by the user on the e-commerce site. In step S22, once the user completes payment, the purchase processing module 3033 stores the content ID of the digital signage 10 used by the user in the second log information table 3023, in association with the purchase of the product. The purchase processing module 3033 also stores the ID of the character (product category) displayed on the digital signage 10 used by the user in the second log information table 3023, in association with the purchase of the product.

[0164] In step S23, the purchase processing module 3033 notifies the accounting system to which the store where the digital signage 10 is installed belongs that the product has been purchased. At this time, the purchase processing module 3033 notifies the digital signage 10 that initiated the user's action in an identifiable manner that the product has been purchased.

[0165] In step S24, the accounting system stores the fact that the product has been purchased by the user in an identifiable way on the digital signage 10.

[0166] Furthermore, in step S23, the purchase processing module 3033 may transmit information to the terminal device 50 indicating that a product has been purchased on the e-commerce site after guidance from the digital signage 10. The information indicating that a product has been purchased may be a predetermined code such as a QR code or barcode, or it may be information that can be transmitted via short-range wireless communication. The user possessing the terminal device 50 moves to the cash register counter of the store where the digital signage 10 is installed and provides the cash register clerk with the information indicating that a product has been purchased. Note that the device providing the information is not limited to the cash register counter. A device for receiving information indicating that a product has been purchased may be installed within the store.

[0167] The accounting system stores, in an identifiable manner, the digital signage 10 used by the user, indicating that a product has been purchased by the user. The accounting system grants a predetermined reward to the terminal device 50 that provided information indicating that a product was purchased. The predetermined reward is, for example, information that triggers a predetermined event on the user's next visit.

[0168] Figure 24 illustrates another example of the purchase process performed by the second server 30. For example, the user accesses the e-commerce site by reading the code displayed in area 142321 shown in Figure 18 using the terminal device 50. The user operates the terminal device 50 and purchases goods on the e-commerce site.

[0169] In step S25, when the user instructs to purchase the product, the control unit 303 grants the user the right to purchase the product via the purchase processing module 3033. In step S26, the purchase processing module 3033 stores in the second log information table 3023 that the right to purchase has been granted. Note that the payment has not yet been completed at this time.

[0170] In step S27, the purchase processing module 3033 transmits information regarding the right to purchase the product to the terminal device 50 operated by the user. The information regarding the right to purchase the product may be transmitted in a format that can be displayed using a predetermined code, such as a QR code or barcode, or in a format that can be transmitted via short-range wireless communication.

[0171] In step S28, the terminal device 50 stores the information transmitted from the second server 30. Once the terminal device 50 has stored the information transmitted from the second server 30, it displays, for example, a message on its display indicating that the purchase will be completed. Specifically, for example, the terminal device 50 displays on its display that it will present the received information to the cash register and complete the payment.

[0172] In step S29, the terminal device 50 provides the cashier at the register with information regarding the right to purchase the product, in response to the user's instructions.

[0173] In step S210, the accounting system accepts payment for the goods. Specifically, for example, the accounting system reads information regarding the right to purchase the goods from the terminal device 50 and requests payment of the fee based on the information read from the user who possesses the terminal device 50.

[0174] In step S211, the accounting system notifies the second server 30 that the user's payment has been completed. In step S212, upon receiving confirmation that the user has completed payment, the purchase processing module 3033 records the content ID of the digital signage 10 used by the user in the second log information table 3023, in association with the purchase of the product. The purchase processing module 3033 also records the ID of the character (product category) displayed on the digital signage 10 used by the user in the second log information table 3023, in association with the purchase of the product.

[0175] (Suggestions for other settings when configuring display content) If the settings for another digital signage 10 are proposed by the third server 40, the first server 20 uses the display control module 2034 to display the proposed settings on the digital signage 10.

[0176] Figure 25 is a schematic diagram showing other display examples of the digital signage 10 in setting mode.

[0177] In the initial stage of the setting mode in the digital signage 10, the digital signage 10 displays areas 1411, 1412, 1413, and 1417 in Figure 25 via the display control unit 193.

[0178] Area 1417 is an area for selecting whether or not to refer to the settings of other digital signage 10. If "Use recommended settings" displayed in area 1417 is selected, the display control unit 193 displays the settings of the other digital signage 10.

[0179] When "Use recommended settings" displayed in area 1417 is selected, the display control unit 193 displays areas 1418, 1419, etc. Area 1418 is an area where information about recommended setting 1 is displayed, for example. Area 1419 is an area where information about recommended setting 2 is displayed, for example. If the administrator finds a setting they like among the settings displayed in area 1417, they select that setting. This eliminates the need for the administrator to decide on the settings of the digital signage 10 from scratch, reducing the administrator's workload. Furthermore, since the settings of the digital signage 10 that have been proven effective are adopted, it becomes possible to operate the digital signage 10 effectively.

[0180] The display control unit 193 may display the contribution of the recommended setting. The contribution of the setting is obtained, for example, by the third server 40, based on its contribution to product sales. The display control unit 193 may also display the person who set the recommended setting. The display control unit 193 may also display the date the recommended setting was set. The display control unit 193 may also display the area, store, etc., where the digital signage 10 with the recommended setting is installed. The display control unit 193 may also display how much effect can be expected from the recommended setting.

[0181] As described above, in the above embodiment, the control unit 203 receives a pre-set number of product categories representing product classifications from the store manager via the setting module 2033. The control unit 203 then uses the display control module 2034 to display a first image on the digital signage 10 relating to a product belonging to the product category specified by the user from among the selected product categories. This allows the store manager to select the product categories to be displayed on the digital signage 10, making it possible to effectively appeal to customers with products in the product categories that the store is promoting.

[0182] Therefore, according to the system of this embodiment, it is possible to propose the effective use of digital signage to convey the store's intentions to customers.

[0183] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the display control module 2034 displays a second image related to the specified product category on the digital signage 10. This makes it possible to display a description of the product category on the digital signage 10, thereby improving the user's knowledge of the product category. By improving knowledge of the product category, it is expected that users will become more interested in the products.

[0184] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the display control module 2034 displays a third image relating to content information of a specified product category on the digital signage 10. This makes it possible to display content related to the product category on the digital signage 10, thereby improving the user's knowledge of the product category.

[0185] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the content information includes at least one of news information, posted information, and video information. This enables the display control module 2034 to display content that is likely to be of interest to the user, collected from multiple sources, on the digital signage 10.

[0186] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when content information is specified by the user, the display control module 2034 displays a fourth image relating to the details of the specified content information on the digital signage. This allows the user to obtain detailed information about the content information that interests them.

[0187] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the display control module 2034 displays multiple third images relating to multiple content information in a predetermined order. This makes it possible to display content information in an order that is likely to interest the user, thereby increasing the likelihood that the user will interact with the digital signage 10.

[0188] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the setting module 2033 receives the start of an operation related to setting the display of the digital signage 10 from a predetermined area on the digital signage 10. This allows the administrator to set the display of the digital signage 10 based on input from the digital signage 10. Therefore, the administrator can set the display content for the digital signage 10 in a unique way.

[0189] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the setting module 2033 accepts the selection of content information for each product category. This makes it possible for the administrator to select the content information they deem best to display from multiple content options for each product category. As a result, it becomes possible to set unique information for each digital signage 10. Such unique settings for each digital signage 10 contribute to the user's enjoyment when they visit the store and use the digital signage 10.

[0190] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the setting module 2033 presents content information to the administrator in a predetermined order. This ensures that content information likely to be selected by the administrator is displayed in an easily visible location, thereby reducing the effort required for the administrator when configuring the digital signage 10.

[0191] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the setting module 2033 receives a notification from a predetermined area on the digital signage 10 that operation of the digital signage 10 has been initiated, it notifies the administrator of this fact. As a result, even if a user mistakenly touches the predetermined area of ​​the digital signage 10, the administrator will notice the operation, thus preventing the settings of the digital signage 10 from being changed by the user.

[0192] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the setting module 2033 accepts the start of operation of the digital signage 10 when the products displayed in the store are changed. As a result, when the product display is changed, the digital signage 10 automatically switches to setting mode, allowing the administrator to set the display of the digital signage 10 in a series of operations.

[0193] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the configuration module 2033 suggests to the administrator the settings of other digital signage that contribute to performance. This allows the administrator to refer to the settings of the digital signage 10 that contribute to performance. The administrator can also utilize the settings of the digital signage 10 that contribute to performance.

[0194] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the control unit 403 analyzes the performance based on the settings of the digital signage 10 using the analysis module 4033 and estimates the settings of the digital signage 10 that contribute to the performance. This makes it possible to accumulate the settings of other digital signage 10 and obtain more effective settings.

[0195] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the analysis module 4033 includes in the performance data the utilization of digital signage or access to e-commerce sites guided from the digital signage. This makes it possible to analyze with high accuracy which performance data the settings of the digital signage 10 contributed to.

[0196] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the control unit 403 proposes the settings of the digital signage 10 that it estimates will contribute to performance to other digital signage 10 using the suggestion module 4034. This makes it possible for the administrator to refer to the settings of the digital signage 10 that contribute to performance. In addition, the administrator can utilize the settings of the digital signage 10 that contribute to performance.

[0197] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the administrator who created the settings for the digital signage 10 that are estimated to contribute to performance is given a reward. This means that the settings for the digital signage 10 are evaluated, and the motivation to configure the display of the digital signage 10 is increased.

[0198] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the setting module 2033 accepts the selection of a character as a product category. This makes it possible to present the user with products related to each character.

[0199] <Variation> The above embodiment describes a case where the digital signage 10 transitions to setting mode when an administrator touches a predetermined location on the digital signage 10. However, the digital signage 10 does not only transition to setting mode when a predetermined location is touched. For example, the digital signage 10 may automatically transition to setting mode. For example, the digital signage 10 may transition to setting mode when changing the products displayed in the store. Specifically, for example, the digital signage 10 may transition to setting mode at a pre-set date and time. Also, the digital signage 10 may transition to setting mode when there is a predetermined instruction regarding a change in the display.

[0200] Furthermore, the above embodiment does not mention the display when connecting to an e-commerce site. However, the second server 30 may display information corresponding to the identified digital signage 10 when a user accesses the e-commerce site. Specifically, for example, if the second server 30 receives an access from a digital signage 10 installed in a store in Okinawa, it will determine which digital signage 10 the access originated from based on the signage ID of the digital signage 10 that guided the user to the e-commerce site. In other words, the second server 30 will, for example, identify the individual digital signage 10, as well as the fact that it is installed in a store in Okinawa, its location within the store, the person who set it up, etc.

[0201] Based on the identified information, the second server 30 displays information on the e-commerce site that is linked to the store where the digital signage 10 is installed, such as "Thank you for using our Okinawa store!". This allows users to recognize that they are visiting the e-commerce site from the store they visited, enabling them to shop seamlessly from within the store to the e-commerce site.

[0202] Furthermore, the second server 30 may display information on the e-commerce site that is linked to the installation location within the store or the person who set it up. This would increase the appeal of connecting to the e-commerce site, for example, if the installation location is distinctive or if the person who set it up is a well-known figure.

[0203] <4. Basic Hardware Configuration of a Computer> Figure 26 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of computer 90. Computer 90 includes at least a processor 91, main memory 92, auxiliary storage 93, and a communication interface 99. These are electrically connected to each other by a bus.

[0204] The processor 91 is hardware for executing the instruction set written in the program. The processor 91 consists of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, etc.

[0205] Main memory 92 is used to temporarily store programs and data processed by programs, etc. For example, it is a volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0206] Auxiliary storage device 93 is a storage device for storing data and programs. Examples include flash memory, HDD (Hard Disc Drive), magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, and semiconductor memory.

[0207] A communication IF99 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for communication with other computers via a network using wired or wireless communication standards.

[0208] A network consists of various mobile communication systems, such as the internet, LANs, and wireless base stations. For example, a network includes 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile communication systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless networks that can connect to the internet via designated access points (e.g., Wi-Fi®). When connecting wirelessly, communication protocols include, for example, Z-Wave®, ZigBee®, and Bluetooth®. When connecting via a wired connection, the network also includes connections made directly via USB (Universal Serial Bus) cables, etc.

[0209] Furthermore, by distributing all or part of each hardware configuration across multiple computers 90 and connecting them to each other via a network, a computer 90 can be virtually realized. Thus, the concept of computer 90 includes not only a computer 90 housed in a single enclosure or case, but also a virtualized computer system.

[0210] <Basic Functional Configuration of Computer 90> The functional configuration of the computer realized by the basic hardware configuration of computer 90 shown in Figure 26 will be explained. The computer comprises at least one functional unit: a control unit, a memory unit, and a communication unit.

[0211] Furthermore, the functional units of computer 90 can also be realized by distributing all or part of each functional unit across multiple computers 90 interconnected via a network. The concept of computer 90 includes not only a single computer 90 but also a virtualized computer system.

[0212] The control unit is realized when the processor 91 reads various programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 93, loads them into the main memory device 92, and executes processing according to those programs. The control unit can realize various functional units that perform information processing depending on the type of program. In this way, the computer is realized as an information processing device that performs information processing.

[0213] The memory unit is implemented by a main memory 92 and an auxiliary memory 93. The memory unit stores data, various programs, and various databases. The processor 91 can also reserve memory areas corresponding to the memory unit in the main memory 92 or the auxiliary memory 93 according to the program. The control unit can also cause the processor 91 to perform operations such as adding, updating, and deleting data stored in the memory unit according to the various programs.

[0214] A database, specifically a relational database, is used to manage and link data sets called tables, which are structurally defined by rows and columns. In a database, tables are called tables, the columns of a table are called columns, and the rows of a table are called records. In a relational database, relationships can be established and linked between tables.

[0215] Typically, each table has a key column to uniquely identify records, but setting a key on a column is not mandatory. The control unit can instruct the processor 91 to add, delete, or update records in specific tables stored in the memory unit according to various programs.

[0216] The communication unit is implemented by the communication IF99. The communication unit implements the function of communicating with other computers 90 via the network. The communication unit can receive information transmitted from other computers 90 and input it to the control unit. The control unit can cause the processor 91 to perform information processing on the received information according to various programs. The communication unit can also transmit information output from the control unit to other computers 90.

[0217] While several embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, these embodiments can be implemented in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications are permitted without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents.

[0218] <Note> The details described in each of the above embodiments are noted below. (Note 1) A program for execution on a computer having a processor and memory, the program causing the processor to perform the steps of: receiving a predetermined number of selections of product categories representing the classification of goods from a store manager; and displaying a first image on digital signage relating to a product belonging to a product category specified by the user from among the selected product categories. (Note 2) The program described in (Appendix 1) displays a second image relating to a specified product category on the digital signage during the step of displaying it on the digital signage. (Note 3) The program described in (Appendix 1) or (Appendix 2) for displaying a third image relating to content information of a specified product category on a digital signage screen. (Note 4) Content information includes at least one of the following: news information, user-submitted information, or video information (as described in Appendix 3). (Note 5) The program described in (Appendix 3) or (Appendix 4) displays a fourth image relating to the details of the specified content information on the digital signage when the content information is specified by the user. (Note 6) A program according to any of (Appendix 3) to (Appendix 5) that, in the step of displaying on digital signage, displays multiple third images relating to multiple content information in a predetermined order. (Note 7) A program as described in any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 6) that, in the step of accepting a selection, accepts the start of an operation related to the display settings of the digital signage from a predetermined area on the digital signage. (Note 8) A program that accepts selections of content information for each product category in the step of accepting selections, as described in any of the notes (1) through (7). (Note 9) In the step where selections are accepted, content information is presented to the administrator in a predetermined order (as described in Appendix 8 of the program). (Note 10) In the step of accepting a selection, if the program accepts the start of operation of the digital signage from a predetermined area on the digital signage, it notifies the administrator of this fact, as described in any of the notes (1) to (9). (Note 11) A program as described in any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 10) that accepts the start of operation on digital signage when changing the products displayed in the store during the selection process. (Note 12) A program described in any of the following (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 11) that causes the processor to perform a step of suggesting to the administrator the configuration of other digital signage that would contribute to performance. (Note 13) A program described in any of the following (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 12) that causes the processor to perform a step of analyzing performance based on the settings of the digital signage and estimating the digital signage settings that contribute to the performance. (Note 14) In the step of estimating the settings, the results include the use of digital signage or access to e-commerce sites guided from digital signage (as described in Appendix 13). (Note 15) A program as described in (Appendix 13) or (Appendix 14) that causes the processor to perform a step of proposing to other digital signage settings that are estimated to contribute to performance. (Note 16) A program described in either (Appendix 13) or (Appendix 15) that causes the processor to execute a step that grants a reward to the administrator who created the digital signage settings that are estimated to contribute to performance. (Note 17) In the step of accepting selections, the product category is a character, as described in any of the programs (Appendix 1) through (Appendix 16). (Note 18) A method to be performed on a computer having a processor and memory, wherein the processor performs any of the steps described in (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 17). (Note 19) An information processing apparatus comprising a control unit and a storage unit, wherein the control unit performs the steps described in any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 17). (Note 20) A system comprising means for performing any of the steps described in (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 17). [Explanation of symbols]

[0219] 1... System 10…Digital signage 12…Communication IF 120... Communications Department 13…Input device 131…Touch-sensitive devices 14…Output device 141…Display 150…Location information sensor 160... Camera 17…Sound Processing Unit 171... Mike 172...Speaker 180...Storage section 19… Processor 190... Control Unit 20… Server 1 30…Second Server 40…3rd Server 50…Terminal device

Claims

1. A program to be executed by a computer having a processor and memory, wherein the program is to be executed by the processor, The store manager receives settings for a predetermined number of product categories that represent the classification of products, and stores the set information. The steps include displaying a fifth image for each of the multiple product categories on a digital signage screen based on the information set above, A step of receiving a user's designation for the fifth image displayed on the digital signage, Based on the user's specification for the fifth image, the steps include: understanding the user's specification for the product category and retrieving the first image from the database relating to the product belonging to the specified product category; The steps include displaying the first image read for the product category specified by the user on the digital signage, and A program that executes the command.

2. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the step of displaying the first image on the digital signage, a second image relating to a specified product category is displayed on the digital signage.

3. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the step of displaying the first image on the digital signage, a third image relating to content information of a specified product category is displayed on the digital signage.

4. The program according to claim 3, wherein the content information includes at least one of news information, posted information, and video information.

5. The program according to claim 3, wherein, in the step of displaying the first image on the digital signage, when the content information is specified by the user, a fourth image relating to the details of the specified content information is displayed on the digital signage.

6. The program according to claim 3, wherein in the step of displaying the first image on the digital signage, a plurality of third images relating to a plurality of content information are displayed in a predetermined order.

7. The program according to claim 1, which causes the processor to perform a step of receiving the start of an operation relating to the display settings of the digital signage from a predetermined area on the digital signage.

8. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the step of accepting the above settings, the program accepts the selection of content information for each product category.

9. In the step of accepting the above settings, the program according to claim 8 presents the content information to the administrator in a predetermined order.

10. The program according to claim 1, which causes the processor to perform a step of notifying the administrator when it receives a request to start operation of the digital signage from a predetermined area on the digital signage.

11. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the step of accepting the above setting, when changing the products displayed in the store, the program accepts the start of operation of the digital signage.

12. The program according to claim 1, wherein when the administrator requests recommended settings for a digital signage, the program causes the processor to perform the steps of obtaining settings for other digital signage that contribute to performance and displaying the obtained settings on the digital signage.

13. The steps include analyzing the relationship between the operation logs of the digital signage, or the user activity logs on the e-commerce site accessed via the digital signage, and the settings of the digital signage, and estimating the digital signage settings that contribute to improving the parameters of the operation logs or activity logs, When the administrator requests recommended settings for the digital signage, the steps include displaying the estimated settings for the other digital signage on the digital signage. The program according to claim 1, which causes the processor to execute the following.

14. The program according to claim 13, which causes the processor to perform the step of proposing to other digital signage settings that are estimated to contribute to improving the parameters of the operation log or the operation log.

15. The program according to claim 13, which causes the processor to perform the step of granting a reward to an administrator who created the settings for the digital signage that are estimated to contribute to improving the parameters of the operation log or the operation log.

16. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the step of accepting the above setting, the product category is a character.

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