Programs, methods, and information processing devices.

Abstract

To further improve a purchase experience of a user who is a store customer, while considering public health.SOLUTION: A program for operating a computer comprising a processor is provided. The program causes the processor to execute a step of acquiring information on a commodity selected by a user as an object to be purchased in a store. A plurality of settlement devices are installed in the store, and the settlement device receives settlement made by the user of the store. When the information on the selected commodity satisfies a predetermined condition, the program causes the processor to execute a step of allowing the user to use settlement in a specific settlement device of the plurality of settlement devices.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] When making a payment for a purchase at a store such as a supermarket, a customer may look at the length of the queue waiting to be checked out at the cash register and consider which queue to join. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-200514 (Patent Document 1 below) describes a technique for guiding a purchaser to a target location without being delayed even during congestion when making a purchase at a store. Specifically, Patent Document 1 describes identifying the cash register with the shortest waiting time based on the position of the display shelves where products are displayed, the congestion at the cash register, and the speed at which a cashier registers products, and then guiding a shopping cart.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] According to the technique of Patent Document 1, since a shopping cart is guided based on the congestion at the cash register and the speed at which a cashier registers products, etc., a customer does not have to consider which queue in the congested cash register queue to join.

[0005] In recent years, taking measures to prevent infectious diseases has become increasingly important in stores. For example, stores have implemented measures to encourage customers to maintain a certain distance from each other while waiting in line at the checkout. From the customer's perspective, it is reasonable to assume that they understand the importance of taking measures to prevent infectious diseases. On the other hand, as the checkout lines become longer when customers are queuing with social distancing measures in place, it becomes difficult for customers to see the entire line, making it difficult to predict the waiting time until they can pay at the checkout, and potentially leading them to abandon their shopping altogether.

[0006] Therefore, this disclosure provides technology that further enhances the customer purchasing experience in stores, while taking into consideration public health, such as implementing infectious disease control measures in stores. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment shown in this disclosure, a program for operating a computer equipped with a processor is provided. The program causes the processor to perform the step of acquiring information on products selected by a user as items to be purchased at a store. Multiple payment devices are installed at the store, and these payment devices accept payments from the user at the store. The program further causes the processor to perform the step of making payment available to the user at a specific payment device among the multiple payment devices if the information on the selected products satisfies predetermined conditions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to further improve the purchasing experience for customers of stores while taking public health into consideration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of System 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the POS terminal 10 shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3]Figure 3 shows the functional configuration of server 20. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the terminal device 40. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the customer information database 281. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the data structure of the product information database 282. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the data structure of the store inventory database 283 and the data structure of the e-commerce site inventory database 284. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the cart update history database 285. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the POS operation history database 286. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a scenario in which each user makes a payment using the POS terminal 10 at a store. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the process by which a store operator configures a specific cash register to be available for use. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the process of notifying a user that a specific register is available. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example screen that notifies the user when a specific register is available. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example screen that notifies the user that a specific register is available during the process of selecting products to purchase. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in System 1 in the second embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in System 1 in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in System 1 in the second embodiment. [Figure 18]FIG. 18 shows an example screen when a privilege is given according to the order of waiting in line while a user waits in line at a cashier. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operations of each device of the system 1 in the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows an example screen when an operation for reserving the timing of settlement at a store is received from a user inside or outside the store.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference 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.

[0011] <Overview of the First Embodiment> The system according to the first embodiment is configured as follows to further improve the purchasing experience of a user who is a customer at a store. · A plurality of settlement devices (POS (Point of Sale) terminals installed in the store) are operating in the store. Each settlement device performs settlement when a user who is a customer purchases goods. · In the system, information on goods selected by the user as purchase targets in the store is acquired. For example, an operator who operates the store provides an application that operates on the user's terminal device. In the application, by reading information on goods selected by the user in the store, information on a virtual shopping cart (cart information) is updated. · For some of the plurality of settlement devices (specific settlement devices), they are not used for settlement by the user when they do not satisfy a predetermined condition, and are used for settlement by the user when they satisfy the predetermined condition. · Some of the plurality of settlement devices are used for settlement by the user without any particular conditions.

[0012] As described above, some of the multiple payment devices will accept payments only if certain conditions are met. This will allow users to use specific payment devices depending on the information of the products they intend to purchase, potentially changing the experience of waiting in line at the checkout counter.

[0013] (1) Notify the user that payment will be made using a specific payment device based on the information of the products the user has selected to purchase at the store. Here, provided that certain conditions are met, the payment device will accept the user's payment in the following cases, based on the information of the product the user has selected to purchase at the store: (i) The number of items the user intends to purchase is below a certain number, (ii) The inclusion of specific products (for example, products associated with a period, such as products featured in a promotional campaign at a store), (iii) The combination of products must meet certain conditions (for example, the products to be purchased must be of a specific type (one or more types). For example, the user must be purchasing only cards that can be used in a card game). (iv) The total weight of the goods must meet certain conditions (either below or above a certain weight; for example, if the total weight of the goods exceeds a certain weight, the number of store staff capable of packing may be limited, and this may involve different delivery procedures than usual), or the goods must include items that weigh above a certain weight. (v) The size of the product must meet certain conditions (either below or above a certain volume. For example, if the total volume of the product exceeds a certain volume, the number of store staff capable of packing it may be limited, and it may involve different delivery procedures than usual).

[0014] This allows users to make payments using a specific payment device from among multiple payment devices, provided that the product they intend to purchase meets certain conditions.

[0015] As described above, when a user selects an item to purchase at a store, the server 20 of System 1 determines whether predetermined conditions are met based on the information of the item selected by the user.

[0016] (2) Estimate the products that the user is likely to select as items to purchase in the store, and based on the estimation results, notify the user that payment will be made using a specific payment device. In addition, the server 20, etc., may determine whether a predetermined condition is met depending on whether the user is selecting an item to purchase at the store, and accept payment at some of the above-mentioned payment devices.

[0017] Server 20 is capable of obtaining the user's location or range within the store through various sensing means installed in the store. For example, cameras may be installed in the store for purposes such as measuring the user's body temperature, or cameras may be installed on the ceiling of the store for purposes such as determining the degree of congestion within the store.

[0018] In this case, without having to identify each individual user in the store, the server 20 can determine how many users are staying in each area of ​​the store where product shelves are installed, as well as the duration of their stay. Furthermore, by having beacon transmitters installed on product shelves and other locations within the store communicate with the user's terminal device 40, the server 20 can determine the user's location within the store.

[0019] Here, some payment devices may accept user payments based on information about the location or range in which the user intends to select products to purchase within the store, for example in the following cases: (i) When a user is on a shelf where a particular product is displayed, (ii) If a user spends a certain amount of time around a shelf where a particular product is displayed (which may be when the user is considering purchasing the product), (iii) When the combination of products on the display shelf where the user is located meets certain conditions (for example, the product the user intends to purchase is of a specific type (one or more types). For example, the user intends to purchase only cards that can be used in a card game), (iv) If the weight of the products displayed on the product shelves meets certain conditions, (v) When the size of the products displayed on the product shelves meets certain conditions.

[0020] This allows users to recognize the availability of specific payment methods when considering purchasing an item, potentially improving their overall purchasing experience.

[0021] <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 multiple POS (Point of Sale) terminals 10 as payment devices, a server 20, multiple display devices 30, and a user terminal device 40 for customers using the store.

[0022] In the example in Figure 1, the "store area" is shown as equipment located within the store. As shown in the figure, the "store area" includes the user's terminal device 40A located within the store, and the POS terminal 10 and display device 30 that constitute the "store system." The user's terminal device 40B is shown to be located outside the store.

[0023] The POS terminal 10 and the display device 30 are configured as a pair. Multiple display devices 30 may be installed with the POS terminal 10. Alternatively, one display device 30 may be installed with multiple POS terminals 10.

[0024] The illustrated example shows multiple POS terminals, namely POS terminals 10A, 10B, ... Hereafter, these multiple POS terminals may be collectively referred to as "POS terminal 10".

[0025] Similarly, the illustrated example shows multiple display devices 30A, 30B, ... Hereafter, multiple display devices may be collectively referred to as "display device 30".

[0026] The POS terminal 10, server 20, and display device 30 communicate with each other via the network 80. Alternatively, the display device 30 may be connected directly to the POS terminal 10 via a wired or wireless connection, without using the network 80.

[0027] Figure 1 shows an example where System 1 includes multiple POS terminals 10 and display devices 30. However, the number of POS terminals 10 and display devices 30 included in System 1 is not limited to multiple units. There may be only one POS terminal 10 and one display device 30.

[0028] For example, multiple sensing devices (such as cameras) are placed in the store to track information about products picked up by the user within the store. When the user enters the store, they perform an operation to authenticate themselves. For example, user authentication information is registered in advance on the user's terminal device 40. When the user enters the store, the user authentication information held in the terminal device 40 is presented to system 1. For example, methods of presenting user authentication information to system 1 include having the authentication information read by a reader such as an IC reader installed in the store when the user enters, or authenticating the user by taking a picture of the user's face. As a result, it becomes possible for the user to pick up products in the store and then make a payment when leaving the store without having to go through a POS terminal 10.

[0029] On the other hand, if a user meets certain conditions, such as picking up a specific product in the store, the store will notify the user via their terminal device 40 or the store's notification means (speaker, display) to encourage them to use the POS terminal 10 installed in the store. This allows the user to use a specific POS terminal 10 when purchasing a specific product, etc.

[0030] For example, at a particular POS terminal 10, if the user requires product packaging, payment and product packaging may be performed at that particular POS terminal 10 together with the store staff.

[0031] The display device 30 attached to the POS terminal 10 may also display notifications to the user. Such notifications may include, for example, information about campaigns, fulfilling campaign entry requirements based on the products the user has purchased, or earning another product based on the products the user has purchased.

[0032] In this embodiment, each device (terminal device, server, etc.) can also be considered as an information processing device. That is, the collection of each device can be considered as a single "information processing device," and System 1 may be formed as a collection of multiple devices. The way in which the multiple functions required to realize System 1 according to this embodiment are distributed to one or more hardware can be appropriately determined in view of the processing capacity of each hardware and / or the specifications required for System 1.

[0033] POS terminal 10 is, for example, a device operated by a store employee during checkout. POS terminal 10 may also be a device operated by the user themselves, without the assistance of a store employee (a so-called self-checkout system). POS terminal 10 may also be a device that processes payments independently of the user or employee (for example, processing payments for items the user has picked up in the store as they pass through a gate to exit the store). POS terminal 10 may be a dedicated checkout terminal, or it may be an information processing device with a checkout application installed. The information processing device may be, for example, a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, or a stationary PC (Personal Computer) or laptop PC.

[0034] The POS terminal 10 includes a communication interface 12, an input device 13, an output device 14, memory 15, storage 16, and a processor 19.

[0035] Communication IF12 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the POS terminal 10 can communicate with external devices.

[0036] The input device 13 is a device for receiving input operations from store staff (for example, a touch panel, touchpad, pointing device such as a mouse, keyboard, etc.). The input device 13 also functions as a reader for reading information about products.

[0037] Output device 14 is a device (display, speaker, etc.) for presenting information to store staff.

[0038] Memory 15 is for temporarily storing programs and data processed by programs, etc., and is a volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0039] Storage 16 is for storing data, and can be, for example, flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0040] The processor 19 is hardware for executing the instruction set described in the program, and consists of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, etc.

[0041] Server 20 is a device that manages, for example, product information sold in stores and information about registered users. Server 20 also manages information about images to be displayed on the display device 30.

[0042] The server 20 includes a communication interface 22, an input / output interface 23, memory 25, storage 26, and a processor 29.

[0043] Communication IF22 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the server 20 can communicate with external devices.

[0044] Input / Output IF23 functions as an interface between an input device for receiving user input operations and an output device for presenting information to the user.

[0045] Memory 25 is for temporarily storing programs and data processed by programs, etc., and is a volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0046] Storage 26 is for storing data, and can be, for example, flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0047] The processor 29 is hardware for executing the instruction set described in the program, and consists of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, etc.

[0048] The display device 30 displays an image based on control from the POS terminal 10 or the server 20.

[0049] <1.1 POS Terminal Configuration> Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the POS terminal 10 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the POS terminal 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 first camera 161, a second camera 162, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. Each block included in the POS terminal 10 is electrically connected, for example, by a bus.

[0050] The communication unit 120 performs modulation and demodulation processing for the POS terminal 10 to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 120 performs transmission processing on the signals generated by the control unit 190 and transmits them to an external device (for example, the server 20 or the display device 30). The communication unit 120 performs reception processing on signals received from an external device and outputs them to the control unit 190.

[0051] The input device 13 is a device for a store clerk operating the POS terminal 10 to input instructions or information. The input device 13 can be implemented by, for example, a reader 131, a keyboard 132, and a touch-sensitive device 133 on which instructions are input by touching the operating surface. The input device 13 converts the instructions or information input by the store clerk into electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals to the control unit 190. The input device 13 may also include a receiving port that accepts electrical signals input from, for example, an external input device. The input device 13 may also include a toggle button (not shown) for switching the display content of the display device 30.

[0052] The reader 131 is a device for reading information attached to a product. For example, the reader 131 optically reads an optical code attached to the product. Alternatively, the reader 131 may use short-range wireless communication to read information attached to the product. In this case, the product is attached to a wireless tag on which information about the product is written. The reader 131 emits radio waves onto the product with the wireless tag attached and reads the information from the wireless tag by receiving the radio waves reflected from the wireless tag.

[0053] Furthermore, the reader 131 is a device for reading identification information assigned to a user, such as a user ID. The reader 131 reads, for example, an image related to the identification information displayed on the user's mobile terminal (for example, a payment application that displays a two-dimensional code containing the user's identification information). The reader 131 also reads, for example, identification information stored on an IC card or a magnetic card.

[0054] The output device 14 is a device for displaying information to the store clerk operating the POS terminal 10. The output device 14 is implemented, for example, by a display 141. The display 141 displays accounting data in accordance with the control of the control unit 190. The display 141 is implemented, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0055] 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 received 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 received from the audio processing unit 17 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the POS terminal 10.

[0056] The first camera 161 and the second camera 162 are devices that receive light using photodetectors and output it as an imaging signal. The first camera 161 and the second camera 162 are positioned to capture images of users or store employees inside or outside the store. For example, the first camera 161 and the second camera 162 are positioned to capture images of a user's actions during checkout, or to capture images of users waiting in line to pay at the POS terminal 10.

[0057] The storage unit 180 is implemented by, for example, memory 15 and storage 16, and stores data and programs used by the POS terminal 10. The storage unit 180 stores, for example, product information 181, specific customer information 182, and employee information 183.

[0058] Product information 181 is information about products sold in stores. Product information includes, for example, information that identifies the product, the product name, the product price, the product release date, the next expected arrival date, the stock quantity, and whether or not the product is part of a promotional campaign that is being promoted for a certain period.

[0059] The specific customer information 182 indicates information about users who can use a particular payment device at the store. For example, the server 20 distributes information about users who can use a particular payment device to the POS terminal 10.

[0060] Employee information 183 is information about an employee who uses the POS terminal 10. This information includes, for example, information that identifies the employee, the employee's name, and a character registered to the employee.

[0061] 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 POS terminal 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, an accounting processing unit 193, a display control unit 194, and a memory control unit 195.

[0062] The operation reception unit 191 processes instructions or information input from the input device 13. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives information based on instructions input from the keyboard 132 or touch-sensitive device 133, etc. Instructions input via the keyboard 132 or touch-sensitive device 133, etc., include, for example, information about products, information about accounting, information about users, or information about the control of the display device 30. The operation reception unit 191 also receives information read from products by the reader 131, or information about users read by the reader 131.

[0063] Furthermore, the operation reception unit 191 receives user operations within the store, which are captured by the first camera 161, the second camera 162, etc. The POS terminal 10 may also receive user operations within the store by detecting predetermined actions, such as a user raising their hand within the store. User operations for the POS terminal 10 include, for example, operations to proceed to payment after selecting products.

[0064] Furthermore, the operation reception unit 191 receives voice instructions input from the microphone 171. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives voice signals input from the microphone 171 and converted into digital signals by the voice processing unit 17. The operation reception unit 191 obtains instructions from the user or store clerk by, for example, analyzing the received voice signals and extracting predetermined nouns.

[0065] The transmitting / receiving unit 192 performs processing to enable the POS terminal 10 to send and receive data with external devices such as the server 20 in accordance with a communication protocol.

[0066] The accounting processing unit 193 performs accounting-related processing in response to instructions entered by the store clerk. For example, the accounting processing unit 193 retrieves product information from product information 181 based on information entered from the keyboard 132 or touch-sensitive device 133, or information read by the reader 131. The accounting processing unit 193 stores in the POS operation history database 286, described later, that the retrieved product has been purchased by the user. The accounting processing unit 193 also performs processes such as updating the product information 181 and sending the user's purchase history information to the server 20 in response to the purchase of the product.

[0067] The display control unit 194 controls the output device 14 in order to present accounting information to the store clerk. Specifically, for example, the display control unit 194 causes the product information read from the product information 181 by the accounting processing unit 193 to be displayed on the display 141. The display control unit 194 also causes the display 141 to display information related to the accounting process performed by the accounting processing unit 193.

[0068] Furthermore, the display control unit 194 controls the display device 30 in order to present accounting-related information to the user. Specifically, for example, the display control unit 194 causes the display device 30 to display information such as information about the products purchased by the user and information about the prices of the products as accounting-related information. The display control unit 194 also causes the display device 30 to display images that enhance the user's experience during payment, or images that improve the store clerk's payment operation.

[0069] Images that enhance the user experience during payment include, for example, highly entertaining images that allow users to enjoy shopping even while payment is being processed. The display control unit 194 causes the display device 30 to display images like the following. • Images of characters associated with the user • Images of characters associated with the store clerk • Images of characters associated with POS terminal 10 • Images related to the accounting situation • Images of characters related to the product

[0070] The display control unit 194 may also display information on the display 141 or display device 30 to identify the location of a specific payment device when making that device available to the user.

[0071] This makes it easier for users to find a specific payment device without getting lost, if that device is available to them.

[0072] Furthermore, the store staff may be instructed to display on the display 141 or display device 30 information regarding the user's availability to use a specific payment device and the products the user has selected for purchase.

[0073] This makes it easier for store staff to guide users to use a specific payment device when that device is available to them.

[0074] Furthermore, to facilitate store staff instructing users to use a specific payment device, the POS terminal 10 or server 20 may notify the staff's terminal device that there is a user in the store who is eligible to use a specific payment device. For example, the server 20 may determine whether a specific payment device is available by obtaining information on the products the user has selected to purchase. Depending on the result of this determination, the server 20 may notify the store staff's terminal device that the user is eligible to use a specific payment device and provide information on the products the user has selected to purchase.

[0075] The memory control unit 195 controls the storage of data in the memory unit 180. For example, the memory control unit 195 updates product information 181, specific customer information 182, or employee information 183 based on data provided by the server 20.

[0076] <1.2 Functional Configuration of the Server> Figure 3 shows the functional configuration of server 20. As shown in Figure 3, server 20 functions as a communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a control unit 203.

[0077] The communications unit 201 performs processing to enable the server 20 to communicate with external devices.

[0078] The memory unit 202 stores various databases, including a customer information database 281, a product information database 282, a store inventory database 283, an e-commerce site inventory database 284, a cart update history database 285, and a POS operation history database 286.

[0079] Customer information database 281 is a database for holding information about users who use products or services provided by businesses that operate stores. Further details will be provided later.

[0080] Product Information Database 282 is a database used by businesses operating stores to hold information about products they sell in their stores or on their e-commerce sites. Further details will be provided later.

[0081] Store inventory database 283 is a database used to manage the inventory of products in stores. Further details will be provided later.

[0082] EC site inventory database 284 is a database for managing the inventory of products on an e-commerce site. Further details will be provided later.

[0083] The cart update history database 285 is a database for holding information about products that users have selected to purchase in the store. When a user selects a product to purchase, the server 20 reads the product information from the user's terminal device 40 or the like, and adds the product information to the cart associated with the user. Further details will be described later.

[0084] The POS operation history database 286 is a database used to store the history of user payments received by the POS terminal 10 installed in the store. Further details will be described later.

[0085] 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 shown as the receive control module 2041, transmit control module 2042, POS setting module 2043, cart management module 2044, inventory management module 2045, POS terminal management module 2046, value determination module 2047, and reservation processing module 2048.

[0086] The receive control module 2041 controls the process by which the server 20 receives signals from external devices according to a communication protocol.

[0087] The transmission control module 2042 controls the process by which the server 20 transmits signals to external devices according to a communication protocol.

[0088] The POS configuration module 2043 receives requests from the store operator to configure the POS terminals 10 installed in the store. For example, the POS configuration module 2043 receives from the store operator to configure whether one or more POS terminals 10 installed in the store should be designated as specific payment devices that can be made available to users when certain conditions are met, and the conditions for applying such configurations (e.g., date and time, sales, etc.).

[0089] The POS setting module 2043 may determine the conditions for a store to use the above-mentioned specific payment device based on the actual purchase history at each store stored in the POS operation history database 286.

[0090] For example, the POS configuration module 2043 generates a trained model by referring to the cart update history database 285 and the POS operation history database 286 and learning based on the actual results of whether or not one or more POS terminals 10 were designated as a specific payment device at each store, and information on the products and dates and times for which payments were accepted from each user. The POS configuration module 2043 may, for example, determine the conditions for designating one or more POS terminals 10 installed in a store as a specific payment device based on the trained model and the number of users expected to visit the store at a given date and time.

[0091] The cart management module 2044 manages information about the products a user intends to purchase (products selected by the user for purchase before payment, products selected but not purchased, etc.). In response to the user's operation to select products, the cart management module 2044 updates the cart update history database 285.

[0092] The inventory management module 2045 manages the inventory of products in stores or on e-commerce sites based on the history of product purchases by users. The inventory management module 2045 refers to the cart update history database 285 and the POS operation history database 286, and updates the store inventory database 283 or the e-commerce site inventory database 284 in response to user operations such as selecting products for purchase and accepting payment processing for purchasing those products.

[0093] The POS terminal management module 2046 manages one or more POS terminals 10 installed in the store and performs processes such as deciding whether to operate each POS terminal 10 and displaying information on each POS terminal 10. For example, when a POS terminal 10 is designated as a specific payment device, the POS terminal management module 2046 changes the settings of the POS terminal 10 that will be designated as that specific payment device and causes the POS terminal 10 to perform processes such as displaying that it is a specific payment device.

[0094] The value determination module 2047 determines the content of the value to be offered to a user when the user is waiting in line to make a payment at the POS terminal 10 in the store. Further details will be described later.

[0095] The reservation processing module 2048 accepts reservations from users for the timing when they will make a payment at the store's POS terminal 10. Further details will be provided later.

[0096] <1.3 Functional configuration of the user's terminal device 40> Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the terminal device 40.

[0097] As shown in Figure 4, the terminal device 40 includes a plurality of antennas (antenna 411, antenna 412), communication units corresponding to each antenna (first communication unit 420, second communication unit 421), an input device 430 (including a touch-sensitive device 431), a display 432, an audio processing unit 440, a microphone 441, a speaker 442, a position information sensor 450, a camera 460, a motion sensor 470, a storage unit 480, and a control unit 490. The terminal device 40 also has functions and configurations not specifically shown in Figure 4 (for example, a battery for maintaining power, a power supply circuit for controlling the supply of power from the battery to each circuit, etc.). As shown in Figure 4, each block included in the terminal device 40 is electrically connected by a bus or the like.

[0098] Antenna 411 radiates signals emitted by terminal device 40 as radio waves. Antenna 411 also receives radio waves from space and provides the received signals to first communication unit 420.

[0099] Antenna 412 radiates signals emitted by terminal device 40 as radio waves. Antenna 412 also receives radio waves from space and provides the received signals to second communication unit 421.

[0100] The first communication unit 420 performs modulation and demodulation processing, etc., for the terminal device 40 to transmit and receive signals via antenna 411 in order to communicate with other wireless devices. The second communication unit 421 also performs modulation and demodulation processing, etc., for the terminal device 40 to transmit and receive signals via antenna 412 in order to communicate with other wireless devices. The first communication unit 420 and the second communication unit 421 are a communication module that includes a tuner, an RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) calculation circuit, a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) calculation circuit, a high-frequency circuit, etc. The first communication unit 420 and the second communication unit 421 perform modulation, demodulation, and frequency conversion of the wireless signals transmitted and received by the terminal device 40, and provide the received signal to the control unit 490.

[0101] The input device 430 has a mechanism for receiving user input operations. Specifically, the input device 430 is configured as a touchscreen and includes a touch-sensitive device 431. The touch-sensitive device 431 receives user input operations for the terminal device 40. The touch-sensitive device 431 detects the user's contact position with the touch panel, for example, by using a capacitive touch panel. The touch-sensitive device 431 outputs a signal indicating the user's contact position detected by the touch panel to the control unit 490 as an input operation.

[0102] The display 432 displays data such as images, videos, and text in accordance with the control unit 490. The display 432 is implemented, for example, by an LCD or an organic EL display.

[0103] The audio processing unit 440 modulates and demodulates the audio signal. The audio processing unit 440 modulates the signal received from the microphone 441 and provides the modulated signal to the control unit 490. The audio processing unit 440 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 442. The audio processing unit 440 is implemented, for example, by an audio processing processor. The microphone 441 receives an audio input and provides the audio signal corresponding to that audio input to the audio processing unit 440. The speaker 442 converts the audio signal received from the audio processing unit 440 into sound and outputs the sound to the outside of the terminal device 40.

[0104] The location information sensor 450 is a sensor that detects the position of the terminal device 40, 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 terminal device 40, which is equipped with a GPS module, is detected. For example, in system 1, if the user has given permission to the server 20 to refer to the user's location, the terminal device 40 transmits location information to the server 20. The server 20 determines whether the user is inside the store based on the location information of the terminal device 40 and the location information of the store.

[0105] Camera 460 is a device that receives light using a photodetector and outputs it as an image. Camera 460 is, for example, a depth camera that can detect the distance from camera 460 to the object being photographed.

[0106] The motion sensor 470 includes an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, etc., and detects the movement of the terminal device 40.

[0107] The memory unit 480 is composed of, for example, flash memory and stores data and programs used by the terminal device 40. In a given scenario, the memory unit 480 stores a game program 481 and a store application 482.

[0108] Game program 481 is a program for running a game that operates on terminal device 40. Game program 481 is, for example, a game in which the user acquires various game characters and competes against others. Game program 481 includes program and user game data. Game data includes information that identifies the user in the game, the user's name, the user's level in the game based on the game program, game objects owned by the user (including game characters and game items), the amount of virtual currency owned by the user, identification information of other users who have registered the user as a friend, etc.

[0109] Store application 482 is an application provided by the business operator that runs the store. Store application 482 provides users with various types of information, such as the following: • Product information provided in stores or on e-commerce sites • Store location information • Information on campaigns conducted at stores or on e-commerce sites • Information on game programs associated with content related to products sold in stores (for example, if the product is related to a character, this includes games, comics, movies, etc., featuring that character) (for example, game programs 481 that run on terminal device 40, game programs that run on game consoles, etc.).

[0110] The control unit 490 controls the operation of the terminal device 40 by reading the program stored in the memory unit 480 and executing the instructions contained in the program. The control unit 490 is, for example, an application processor. By operating according to the program, the control unit 490 performs the functions of an operation reception unit 491, a transmission / reception unit 492, a data processing unit 493, a notification control unit 494, and a memory control unit 495.

[0111] The operation reception unit 491 processes input operations from the user to an input device such as a touch-sensitive device 431. Based on the coordinate information of the touch-sensitive device 431 where the user has made contact with the touch-sensitive device 431, the operation reception unit 491 determines the type of operation, such as whether the user's operation is a flick operation, a tap operation, or a drag (swipe) operation.

[0112] The transmitting / receiving unit 492 performs processing to enable the terminal device 40 to send and receive data with external devices such as the server 20 and the POS terminal 10 in accordance with the communication protocol.

[0113] The data processing unit 493 performs calculations on the data received as input by the terminal device 40 according to the program and outputs the calculation results to memory or the like.

[0114] The notification control unit 494 performs the following processes: displaying the display image on the display 432, outputting sound to the speaker 442, and generating vibrations.

[0115] The memory control unit 495 controls the storage of data to the memory unit 480. For example, the memory control unit 495 causes various data to be stored in the memory unit 480 based on the operation of the game program 481 and the store application 482.

[0116] <2 Data Structure> Figures 5 through 9 show the data structure of the database stored by server 20. Note that Figures 5 through 9 are examples and do not exclude data not shown.

[0117] Figure 5 shows the customer information database 281. Each record in the customer information database 281 contains the following information: "Customer ID", "Name", "Age", "Address", "Date of Birth", "E-mail Address", "Registration Date", "Last Visit Date", "Visit Reservation Date and Time", and "Other Accounts".

[0118] The "Customer ID" field indicates information that identifies each user. Specifically, the "Customer ID" field is the membership number for a membership service provided by the business operator running the store.

[0119] The "Name" field indicates the name or nickname set by each user. Specifically, the "Name" field is either the real name registered by the user or a name set arbitrarily. Server 20 accepts settings from users regarding whether or not to disclose their real name to other users.

[0120] The "Age" field indicates the user's age or age group. Specifically, the "Age" field is information set by the user in the store application 482, and is the age or age group of the user themselves or their family (children). A business operating a store may offer products or services that are suitable for a specific age group. For example, educational toys may have an age range specified. Information regarding the user's age may be accepted from the user after obtaining their consent.

[0121] The "Address" field indicates the address set by the user. Specifically, the "Address" field contains the address information set by the user in the store application 482. A business operating a store may offer products or services that are available in certain regions. For example, they may offer campaigns specific to each region. Here, information regarding the user's address may be accepted from the user after obtaining their consent.

[0122] The field "Date of Birth" indicates the date of birth set by the user. Specifically, the field "Date of Birth" is the date of birth set by the user in store application 482. The store may provide services to the user according to their birthday or birth month. Here, information regarding the user's date of birth may be accepted from the user after obtaining the user's consent.

[0123] The "E-mail address" field displays the user's contact information. Specifically, the "E-mail address" field is the email address set by the user in store application 482.

[0124] The "Registration Date" field indicates when the user registered for the membership service. Specifically, the "Registration Date" field is the date and time the user registered for the membership service at the store or via the store application 482. For example, the user may be able to use the benefits within a certain period after registration is completed.

[0125] The "Last Visit Date" field indicates the last time a user visited the store. Specifically, the "Last Visit Date" field represents the time the user entered the store and the time the payment was made. For example, in System 1, when a user enters the store, the server 20 obtains the timing of the user's visit by acquiring their membership number using a device installed in the store (for example, displaying a QR code representing the membership number in the store application 482, which is then read by the store's system). Alternatively, the server 20 may update the "Last Visit Date" field in the customer information database 281 based on the timing when the user makes a payment at the POS terminal 10.

[0126] Server 20 may also notify users of campaigns in which they are eligible to receive benefits, based on when the user last visited the store.

[0127] The item "Reservation Date and Time for Store Visit" indicates the timing of a store visit when the user has made a reservation for a time to make a payment at the store. Specifically, the item "Reservation Date and Time for Store Visit" may include store information, the timing of the payment at the store, and information about the POS terminal 10 used for payment. For example, the server 20 may accept a reservation from the user for a time to make a payment at the store's POS terminal 10, regardless of whether the user is inside or outside the store.

[0128] The item "Other Accounts" refers to account information, specifically information about accounts issued to the user for services other than the membership service in question. Specifically, if the business operator running the store provides a game program, the item "Other Accounts" may include the player's ID (information that uniquely identifies the player) in that game program. For example, server 20 may accept an operation from the user to link game account information with the user's account for the store's membership service.

[0129] Figure 6 shows the data structure of the product information database 282. As shown in Figure 6, each record in the product information database 282 contains the following information: "Product ID", "Product Name", "Sales Price", "Product Category", "Version", "Release Date", "End Date", and "Product Description".

[0130] The "Product ID" field indicates information that identifies a product. Specifically, the "Product ID" field may include information that is uniquely assigned to each product by the business operator running the store.

[0131] The "Product Name" field indicates the name of the product. Specifically, the "Product Name" field includes the name assigned by the business operator running the store. The product name may include information that helps users perceive the product category, character or content title, etc. Product categories may include card games, plush toys, stationery, general merchandise, small items, video media such as DVDs, tickets, etc.

[0132] The "Selling Price" field indicates the price set when selling a product. Specifically, the "Selling Price" field may include the standard price set by the business and the price set when selling in a store (for example, a discounted price for promotional purposes).

[0133] The "Product Category" field indicates the classification of the product. Specifically, the "Product Category" field may include information such as: (1) products that can be used in multiplayer matches, such as card games or game programs; (2) everyday items such as stuffed animals, toys, and stationery; and (3) tickets and other rights to participate in events offered in the real world or online.

[0134] The "Version" field indicates the version information for a product if it is sold continuously. Specifically, the "Version" field may include version information for the rules of a game, such as a card game, if those rules are revised. If the "Version" field includes information for an updated version, such as a video game, if those updates are released, it may include information for the updated version.

[0135] The "Release Date" field indicates the date and time when a business released a product. Specifically, the "Release Date" field may include information on the date and time when customers can purchase and obtain the product at a store or on an e-commerce site, or the date and time when reservations for purchasing the product are accepted.

[0136] The item "End of Sales Date" indicates the date and time when the business operator ceased selling the product. Specifically, the item "End of Sales Date" may include information on the date and time when sales end for products that are sold for a limited time. The item "End of Sales Date" may also include information on the date and time when sales end due to circumstances such as the discontinuation of production of the product.

[0137] The "Product Description" field refers to content such as text, images, and audio that describes the product's contents. Specifically, the "Product Description" field may include information such as the age at which the product can be used, how to use the product, and safety precautions when using the product.

[0138] Figure 7 shows the data structure of the store inventory database 283 and the data structure of the e-commerce site inventory database 284.

[0139] Each record in the store inventory database 283 contains the following information: "Product ID", "Inventory Quantity", "Standard Price", "Specific Register Usage Conditions", "Specific Register Handling History", "Inventory Replenishment Date", and "Replenishment Quantity".

[0140] The "Product ID" field indicates the name of the product.

[0141] The "Inventory Quantity" item indicates the quantity of inventory held by the store for that product.

[0142] Specifically, the item "Inventory Quantity" is information that is updated when a product is sold in the store (payment is processed at POS terminal 10).

[0143] For example, when a user purchases an item at a store, payment is made using the POS terminal 10. The server 20 then reduces the quantity in the "Inventory Quantity" field by the number of items for which payment has been made.

[0144] The "Selling Price" item indicates the price set when selling the product.

[0145] Specifically, the item "selling price" may include the standard price set by the business operator and the price set when selling in a store (for example, a discounted price for promotional purposes).

[0146] The item "Specific Register Usage Conditions" indicates the conditions under which payment is enabled at a specific POS terminal 10 out of multiple POS terminals 10 in a store.

[0147] Specifically, the item "Specific Register Usage Conditions" may have the following conditions set for each product in a store, in order to allow the use of a specific POS terminal 10. • The user's shopping cart contains information about a specific product. • The user's shopping cart contains only specific products. • The user's shopping cart contains a certain number of specific items. • The user's shopping cart contains a certain number of items, regardless of whether they are specific products or not. • The products included in the user's shopping cart are a predetermined combination.

[0148] The item "Specific Register Usage Conditions" may include a condition that a specific POS terminal 10 cannot be used for each product. For example, if a business operates multiple stores, it may leave the decision of whether or not to allow payment at POS terminal 10 for some products to each store, while uniformly prohibiting payment at POS terminal 10 for other products at all stores (or uniformly allowing payment at POS terminal 10 at all stores).

[0149] The item "Specific Register Transaction History" shows the history of transactions at a store where products were processed for payment using a specific POS terminal 10.

[0150] Specifically, the item "Specific Register Transaction History" may include the following types of history: • Record of when a specific POS terminal 10 is operated by the server 20 as a specific POS terminal 10 in a store, provided that the conditions set for making that terminal available are met. • History of settings made by staff in a store to enable the use of a specific POS terminal 10, regardless of predetermined conditions.

[0151] For example, a store staff member may check the following information and, based on their judgment, operate some of the multiple POS terminals 10 as a specific POS terminal 10. • Number of customers visiting the store • Customer purchasing behavior • A queue of customers waiting to pay at POS terminal 10.

[0152] The item "Inventory Replenishment Date" indicates the date and time when the store replenished its inventory of the product.

[0153] Specifically, the item "Inventory Replenishment Date" may include the following information as a date and time: • The date and time the store placed an order to replenish its inventory. • The date and time the stock arrived at the store in connection with the order.

[0154] For example, store staff read information about products that have arrived at the store using a reader or similar device. This causes server 20 to update information about the date and time the product inventory was replenished and the quantity replenished.

[0155] The item "Replenishment Quantity" indicates the quantity of goods replenished in the store's inventory.

[0156] Specifically, the "Replenishment Quantity" field stores information about the number of items in stock when they arrive at the store (for example, when store staff read the ordered items).

[0157] For example, in response to a store replenishing its inventory, server 20 updates the "Inventory Quantity" field by the amount of inventory replenished.

[0158] Each record in the EC site inventory database 284 includes the fields "Product ID", "Inventory Quantity", "Sales Price", "Campaign Period", "Campaign Quantity", "Inventory Replenishment Date", and "Replenishment Quantity".

[0159] The "Product ID" field indicates the name of the product.

[0160] The "Inventory Quantity" item indicates the quantity of inventory held on the e-commerce site for that product.

[0161] Specifically, the item "Inventory Quantity" is information that is updated when a product is sold on the e-commerce site (for example, when payment processing for the product is accepted on server 20).

[0162] The "Selling Price" item indicates the price set when selling the product.

[0163] Specifically, the item "selling price" may include the standard price set by the business operator and the price set when selling on the e-commerce site.

[0164] The item "Campaign Period" indicates the period during which a product campaign is being conducted on the e-commerce site.

[0165] Specifically, the item "Campaign Period" may include information about the period during which the following benefits are offered to users as part of a campaign for each product on the e-commerce site. • The right to receive discounts on e-commerce sites, etc. (provision of coupon data) • The right to participate in a lottery at the e-commerce site or in stores. • The right to receive additional goods or services in connection with a user's purchase of a product.

[0166] The item "Campaign Quantity" indicates the number of items included in the campaign on the e-commerce site.

[0167] Specifically, the item "Campaign Quantity" may include the following information as quantity information on an e-commerce site: • Number of items in a campaign where benefits are offered to users on a first-come, first-served basis. • Number of winners in a campaign where prizes are awarded to users by lottery.

[0168] Here are some possible products that could be offered to users through this campaign: • Products that will be sold to users • Products that are not sold directly to users, but are provided when users purchase other products.

[0169] The item "Stock Replenishment Date" indicates the date and time when the product's stock was replenished on the e-commerce site.

[0170] Specifically, the item "Inventory Replenishment Date" may include the following information regarding the timing of inventory replenishment at the warehouse operated by the e-commerce site. • When the items to be stocked arrive • The timing of when the product was shipped from the sender.

[0171] Figure 8 shows the cart update history database 285. Each record in the cart update history database 285 includes the fields "Cart ID", "Customer ID", "Store ID", "Product ID", "Quantity", "Cart Addition Timing", and "Cart Deletion Timing".

[0172] The "Cart ID" field identifies the shopping cart used by users to register product information when making a purchase.

[0173] Specifically, the item "Cart ID" includes the cart identification information generated by server 20 in accordance with each user's purchasing behavior.

[0174] Here are some examples of how a user can access product information when making a purchase:

[0175] (1) Read product information from a real shopping basket provided in the store. (1-1) For example, a real shopping cart is equipped with a reading device for optically reading product information. For example, the reading device is equipped with a scanner for optically reading product information, and by scanning a two-dimensional code such as a barcode attached to the product with the scanner, it reads the product information in the shopping cart. (1-2) For example, a real shopping cart is equipped with a reader for reading product information electronically. For example, a real shopping cart is equipped with a reader for reading IC tag information. If a product has an IC tag attached, the user has the shopping cart's reader read the product's IC tag, thereby reading the product information in the shopping cart. (1-3) Server 20 retrieves the product information read from the actual shopping cart. (1-3-1) The actual shopping cart can communicate with the user's terminal device 40 wirelessly (for example, the terminal device 40 and the shopping cart communicate via short-range wireless communication) or by wire (for example, the actual shopping cart has an attachment part for attaching the user's terminal device 40). The terminal device 40 receives product information read by the actual shopping cart and transmits it to the server 20. (1-3-2) The actual shopping basket can communicate with the store's POS terminal 10, for example. The actual shopping basket obtains user identification information (for example, user identification information displayed on the terminal device 40, or a QR code obtained by the user upon entering the store, etc., which is read by the actual shopping basket), and transmits the user identification information and product information to the POS terminal 10. The POS terminal 10 receives this information and transmits it to the server 20.

[0176] (2) The user's terminal device 40 reads the product information. (2-1) For example, the terminal device 40 optically reads product information using a store application 482 or the like. For example, the camera 460 of the terminal device 40 reads a two-dimensional code attached to the product, thereby reading the product information in the terminal device 40. (2-2) For example, terminal device 40 is equipped with a reading device for reading product information electromagnetically.

[0177] (3) Alternatively, the store may use a reader installed in its payment terminal to read information about the products the user is purchasing and add them to the shopping cart.

[0178] A "cart" is a virtual shopping cart that allows users to register items before making a payment. The server 20 may issue information identifying the shopping cart to the user at the following possible timings: • The timing at which server 20 issues cart identification information to each user in advance, regardless of whether the user actually visits the store or not (for example, when each user registers for a service provided by server 20, server 20 issues cart identification information to each user). When a user operates the store application 482 and registers new product information from a state where no product information is registered, the terminal device 40 sends the user's registration details to the server 20, and the server 20 issues cart identification information associated with the user. When a user makes a payment using terminal device 40, the timing at which server 20 issues cart identification information associated with the user by having terminal device 40 read the products the user is purchasing.

[0179] The "Customer ID" field contains information that identifies each user.

[0180] The "Store ID" field indicates information that identifies each store.

[0181] Specifically, the item "Store ID" may include the following information as information that identifies each store: • Information that identifies stores in the real world • Information identifying the e-commerce site Here, for example, each store may be assigned a unique store code in advance.

[0182] The "Product ID" field indicates information that identifies the product registered in the shopping cart.

[0183] The "Quantity" field indicates the quantity of items registered in the shopping cart.

[0184] The item "Add to Cart Timing" indicates the timing when a user adds an item to their cart.

[0185] Specifically, the item "Add to Cart Timing" may include the following information, associated with product identification information: • When the user adds an item to their cart • Number of items added to cart

[0186] The item "Cart Deletion Timing" indicates the timing at which a user removed an item from their cart.

[0187] Specifically, the item "Cart Deletion Timing" may include the following information, associated with product identification information: • When a user removes an item from their cart • Number of items removed from cart

[0188] Figure 9 shows the POS operation history database 286. Each record in the POS operation history database 285 includes the following items: Transaction ID, Payment Device ID, Payment Order, Cart ID, Payment Timing, Specific Register Notification, Notification Target User ID, In-store / Outside store, and Payment Method.

[0189] The item "Transaction ID" indicates information that identifies each transaction processed by the POS terminal 10.

[0190] The item "Payment Device ID" indicates information that identifies POS terminal 10.

[0191] When each POS terminal 10 performs a payment process, the server 20 adds a record to the POS operation history database 286.

[0192] The item "Payment Order" indicates the order in which payments were made at each POS terminal 10.

[0193] Specifically, the item "Payment Order" is associated with the identification information of the POS terminal 10 and includes information that has been changed (for example, increased) each time a payment is processed.

[0194] In the illustrated example, payment device ID "#P001" accepts payment for transaction ID "#T187" in payment sequence "87". Subsequently, payment device ID "#P001" accepts payment for transaction ID "#T188" in payment sequence "88".

[0195] The "Cart ID" field indicates information that identifies the shopping cart.

[0196] The information identifying the shopping cart is associated with the information identifying the user ("customer ID"), as explained in the example of the shopping cart update history database 285 in Figure 8.

[0197] The item "Payment Timing" indicates the timing at which the payment was accepted by the POS terminal 10.

[0198] Specifically, the item "Payment Timing" includes the following information: • At the timing when the user completes the payment process in POS terminal 10 • The user has reserved the time to make a payment at the store's POS terminal 10.

[0199] In response to completing a payment process (for example, completing a withdrawal process for cashless payment, accepting a cash deposit and receiving confirmation from the user), the POS terminal 10 causes the server 20 to update the POS operation history database 286.

[0200] As shown in the diagram, the POS terminal 10 may be in a state where it has read information about the products the user is purchasing (for example, information from the shopping cart) and is waiting for an operation to complete the payment process ("waiting for payment").

[0201] Furthermore, the store application 482 accepts from the user the timing for making a payment at the POS terminal 10, whether inside or outside the store. In other words, the user can shop at the store in conjunction with the timing for making a payment at the POS terminal 10.

[0202] The item "Specific Register Notification" indicates the timing when POS terminal 10 was designated as a specific payment device.

[0203] Specifically, the item "Specific Register Notification" includes the following timings: The server 20 compares the cart update history database 285 for each user with the conditions for designating the POS terminal 10 as a specific payment device, and determines the timing when the POS terminal 10 is set as a specific payment device. • When a staff member in the store observes the situation in the store, regardless of the conditions, and determines that it is necessary to configure a specific payment device, and as a result configures the POS terminal 10 as a specific payment device.

[0204] The item "Notified User ID" indicates the identification information of the user who was notified that they could use payment at a specific payment device.

[0205] For example, server 20 updates the information in the "Notification Target User ID" field by referring to the "Cart ID" information and the cart update history database 285 and accepting payment processing from the user. For example, server 20 can compile data on users who have been notified that they can use a particular payment device and have actually used that device.

[0206] The "Inside / Outside Store" item indicates whether the user is inside or outside the store.

[0207] Specifically, the item "Inside / Outside Store" includes information on whether a user who has reserved a time to make a payment at POS terminal 10 had that reservation made inside or outside the store.

[0208] When server 20 determines that the user who made the reservation is inside the store, it updates the POS operation history database 286 with information about when the user was determined to be inside the store, indicating that the user is inside the store.

[0209] The "Payment Method" field displays information about the payment methods used by the user (e.g., credit card payment, post-paid payment).

[0210] Specifically, the item "Payment Method" includes the following information: • Payment method (prepaid, postpaid, or cash) • Information on businesses that provide payment methods (e.g., businesses that provide prepaid payment services, businesses that provide credit card services, etc.)

[0211] For example, a business operator running a store may provide payment methods to customers through a store application 482 or the like. By analyzing the payment methods used when customers make payments, the server 20 can compile data on which payment methods are used most frequently, the percentage of time that payment methods provided by the store operator are used, and so on.

[0212] Figure 10 shows a scenario in which each user makes a payment using a POS terminal 10 in a store. As shown in the figure, the store is equipped with multiple POS terminals 10 (an example showing three payment devices: POS terminal 10A, POS terminal 10B, and POS terminal 10C).

[0213] The example shown illustrates the following three cash registers. • First register R1 (POS terminal 10A and display device 30A) • Second cash register R2 (POS terminal 10B and display device 30B) • Third register R3 (POS terminal 10C and display device 30C) The individual cash registers are sometimes collectively referred to as "Cash Register R".

[0214] Each POS terminal 10 has a camera 161. In the illustrated example, the first camera 161A of POS terminal 10A, the first camera 161B of POS terminal 10B, and the first camera 161C of POS terminal 10C are shown.

[0215] Corresponding to registers R1, R2, and R3, queue markers MK1, MK2, and MK3 are placed to indicate where users should line up to pay at POS terminal 10. Hereafter, each queue marker may be collectively referred to as queue marker MK.

[0216] In the queue marker MK, for example, a distance that can be understood as so-called social distancing may be maintained, as in the following configuration. • Add a pattern to the floor surface. • Install a marker (such as a pole) on the floor to indicate your standing position.

[0217] In the illustrated example, the first cash register R1 notifies users in the store of the following information by displaying it on the display device 30A. • The first register R1 is a specific payment device. • Conditions for using payment at the first register R1 (for example, conditions such as purchasing only specific products) • Information of users who can use the first register, R1.

[0218] In the illustrated example, the second cash register R2 notifies users in the store of the following information by displaying it on the display device 30B. • Offering special benefits to users waiting in line at the checkout counter. • Details of the benefits offered to users waiting in line at the checkout counter.

[0219] In the illustrated example, the third cash register R3 notifies users in the store of the following information by displaying it on the display device 30C. • You can reserve the timing of payment at the register. • Information about the user who reserved the payment timing at the register (such as their nickname, or other information that allows the user to recognize that the notification is directed to them). • Timing of the reserved payment • The time for the scheduled payment has arrived.

[0220] The illustrated example shows a configuration where a display device 30 is installed at each register. Alternatively, instead of installing a display device 30 at each register, a display device 30 could be installed to present information to users waiting in line at multiple registers. For example, a display device 30 with a screen size large enough for users in the front of the line (e.g., users up to a certain position in the queue, including the front) could be installed at a predetermined location within the store (e.g., above multiple registers). Furthermore, the display device 30 could be placed at any location within the store, regardless of the location of the multiple registers.

[0221] In the illustrated example, the first camera 161 can photograph users waiting in line to make a payment. This allows the POS terminal 10 to determine the length of the queue and the number of people waiting at each register R based on the images captured by the first camera 161.

[0222] <Operation of the first embodiment> Next, we will describe the operation of each device that makes up System 1.

[0223] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the process by which a store operator configures a specific cash register to be available for use.

[0224] In step S1101, the control unit 190 accepts an operation from the store operator to set the conditions and expiration date for making a particular register available. These conditions include: For example, the following conditions are included in this set of conditions: • "Users purchase only a specific product (product 1)." • "Your cart contains a specific item (the second item)." • "The number of different types of items in the cart meets the requirement." • "The number of items in the shopping cart is below a certain level."

[0225] In step S1123, the control unit 203 receives from the POS terminal 10 the conditions set by the store operator to enable a specific register. Based on the received information, the control unit 203 updates the database (store inventory database 283).

[0226] In step S1103, the control unit 190 displays information about the conditions set by the store operator for enabling a specific cash register, and the expiration date of those conditions.

[0227] <A process to notify users within the store that a specific register is available.> Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the process of notifying a user that a specific register is available.

[0228] In step S1241, the control unit 190 receives registration of information (cart information) of products selected by the user as items to be purchased at the store via the store application 482 or the like. The control unit 190 reads the cart information and transmits it to the server 20.

[0229] In step S1221, the control unit 203 receives information from the terminal device 40 about the products selected by the user for purchase. Based on the received information, the control unit 203 updates the cart update history database 285.

[0230] In step S1223, the control unit 203 compares the cart update history database 285 with the conditions set by the business operator (conditions for enabling a specific register (payment device)). Based on the user's cart information, the control unit 203 identifies users who are about to make a payment and who meet the predetermined conditions for enabling a specific register.

[0231] In step S1225, if the control unit 203 finds a user in the store whose cart information meets predetermined conditions, it notifies that the user can use a specific register (that payment can be made at a specific register).

[0232] For example, the control unit 203 identifies the user's identification information for a specific register by referring to the cart information. The control unit 203 notifies the identified user's terminal device 40 that the specific register is available via the store application 482 or the like (for example, by sending a push notification).

[0233] In step S1243, the control unit 190 displays that a specific register is available based on the information in the shopping cart.

[0234] In step S1245, the control unit 190 accepts an operation to reserve a specific cash register if it is available, and transmits reservation information in response to the user's operation.

[0235] In step S1227, the control unit 203 notifies the store staff (via the POS terminal and the staff's terminal) that there is a user who can use a particular register.

[0236] In step S1229, the control unit 203 receives an operation from the user requesting to reserve the use of the cash register and updates the database (POS operation history database 286).

[0237] <Screen example> Figure 13 shows an example screen that notifies the user when a specific register is available.

[0238] The example screen (A) in Figure 13 shows a scenario where information about the products selected by the user for purchase is presented to the user as the contents of the shopping cart. The following examples show examples of displaying information about products registered in the cart on the user's terminal device 40, but this is not limited to displaying on the terminal device 40 owned by the user. For example, suppose a store lends a terminal device (such as a tablet) to the user for purchasing. The store may provide the user with the function to make a purchase in the store by having the store read information that identifies the user on the terminal device it lends (for example, by having the store's terminal device read information that identifies the user (such as membership card information)).

[0239] The control unit 490 displays on the display 432 information about the products the user has added to their cart, as well as UI (User Interface) components for accepting the operation to start payment.

[0240] The control unit 490 displays information about the registered product in the cart display unit 132A each time the user registers a product in the cart.

[0241] Specifically, the control unit 490 displays information such as the "product type," "product details," "quantity," and "price" of the products registered by the user in the cart display unit 132A.

[0242] The control unit 490 displays the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B.

[0243] Specifically, the control unit 490 displays in the notification unit 132B that no items are registered in the cart.

[0244] The control unit 490 receives input operations from the user at the operation reception unit 132C.

[0245] Specifically, the control unit 490 displays the following information in the operation reception unit 132C. · Accept an input operation to start the settlement process for the products registered in the cart · In the illustrated example, since no product is registered in the cart, the operation to start the settlement process is unavailable (do not enable the UI component)

[0246] The control unit 490 displays the user's information, information on whether the user is inside or outside the store, and the current time on the login information display unit 132E

[0247] Specifically, the control unit 490 displays the following information and the like on the login information display unit 132E · The fact that "User B" has logged in to the store application 482 · The fact that "User B" is inside "Store A"

[0248] The screen example (B) in FIG. 13 shows a situation where the user has registered a product in the cart with respect to the state of the screen example (A). As shown, the user is adding the product "Card" to the cart

[0249] The control unit 490 displays on the cart display unit 132A that the user has added the product content "Card Pack" with a quantity of "5" to the cart

[0250] The control unit 490 notifies on the notification unit 132B that the user has added the product content "Card Pack" to the cart as the content of the operation performed by the user

[0251] The control unit 490 displays the following information on the operation reception unit 132C in response to the registration of a product in the cart information · It is possible to proceed to the settlement at the cash register · Accept an operation to proceed to the settlement by the operation reception unit 132C

[0252] As described above, the control unit 490 may enable the operation reception unit 132C in response to the registration of a product in the cart information

[0253] The example screen (C) in Figure 13 shows the state in which the user is notified that a specific register is available. In the example shown, the control unit 490, in response to receiving an operation (to make a payment) from the user to the operation reception unit 132C in the state of the example screen (B), notifies the user that a specific register is available. When the user performs an operation to the operation reception unit 132C, the control unit 490 confirms the contents of the items registered in the cart (information of the items selected by the user as items to be purchased).

[0254] The control unit 490 displays the following information in the notification unit 132B. • The user must be able to use a specific register. Which of the multiple cash registers is the specific cash register? • Reasons why a user can use a specific register (the conditions for using a specific register are met) For example, this corresponds to the process shown in step S1243 of Figure 12.

[0255] The control unit 490 receives an operation from the user at the operation reception unit 132C to return to a state where the user can add or remove items without confirming the contents of the cart (the state shown in example screen (B)).

[0256] The control unit 490 displays the following information in the register designation unit 132D. • Type of cash register (Which of multiple cash registers is the specific one being referred to?) • Information on the level of congestion at each register (for example, the length of the queue can be determined by cameras 161 installed at each register). • Users should be able to specify which register they want to use for payment (specifying which register to use for payment). • The system prompts the user to choose which of the multiple registers to use for payment. (In the example shown, an icon above an arrow is associated with a specific register, "Dedicated Register A," thus recommending that particular register to the user over the others.) · It is possible to reserve to perform settlement at the cash register. For example, it corresponds to the processing such as step S1245 in FIG. 12.

[0257] The screen example (D) in FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a situation where the user designates to perform settlement at the specific cash register in a state where the specific cash register is available. The control unit 490 causes a transition to the state of the screen example (D) when the user designates a specific cash register with the cash register designation unit 132D in the state of the screen example (C).

[0258] The control unit 490 displays the following information in the notification unit 132B. · Information on the cash register that the user reserved to perform settlement · The timing when the user performs settlement at the cash register (in the illustrated example, it indicates a state where the cash register can be used immediately due to reservation)

[0259] The control unit 490 displays the following information in the operation reception unit 132C. · It is possible to cancel the reservation to perform settlement at the cash register. · Receive the operation to cancel in the operation reception unit 132C.

[0260] The control unit 490 displays the information on the cash register (in the illustrated example, "Dedicated Cash Register A") designated by the user to be used in settlement in the cash register designation unit 132D.

[0261] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a situation where the user is notified that a specific cash register is available in the process of the user selecting a product as a purchase target.

[0262] The screen example (A) in FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a situation where the user is notified that a specific cash register is available by satisfying the conditions for using the specific cash register in the process of the user selecting a product as a purchase target.

[0263] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • The user must meet the conditions for using a specific checkout process while selecting products (before confirming the contents of the cart). • Information about the products the user has selected to purchase (products added to the cart) • Conditions for making a specific register available (in the example shown, purchasing the product "Card Pack" and purchasing other specific products)

[0264] Screen example (B) in Figure 14 shows a situation where, compared to the state in screen example (A), the user has added more items to the cart, resulting in the conditions for using a specific checkout being no longer being met. As shown in the illustration, the user has added items of product type "cards," as well as items of product categories "clothing" and "stuffed animals" to the cart.

[0265] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • The user does not meet the conditions for using a specific checkout process while selecting products (before confirming the contents of the cart). • Conditions for using a specific register (In the illustrated example, the conditions are those related to the product.) Which of the multiple cash registers is the specific one?

[0266] The example screen (C) in Figure 14 shows a scene where the user is notified that a specific register has become available. For example, a store staff member can set one of several registers as a specific register on the store's terminal.

[0267] The control unit 490 displays the following information in the notification unit 132B. • One of the multiple cash registers has started operating as a new, specific cash register. Which of the multiple cash registers is the specific cash register? • Reasons why a user can use a specific register (the conditions for using a specific register are met) • Conditions under which a specific register is available

[0268] The example screen (D) in Figure 14 shows the screen where a user is notified when a store staff member opens a new cash register.

[0269] The control unit 490 displays the following information in the notification unit 132B. • One of the multiple cash registers has started operating as a new, specific cash register. • It is possible to refer to the conditions under which a specific register becomes available.

[0270] The control unit 490 responds to user input operations to the notification unit 132B by presenting the user with the conditions for making a specific register available.

[0271] <Summary of the First Embodiment> As described above, the system notifies the user that a specific register is available, depending on the items the user has selected to purchase in the store.

[0272] When a user is about to proceed to checkout, they are notified that a specific register is available (e.g., Figure 13). This allows the user to focus on selecting their items while receiving notification about which register to use based on their selections, making it easy to confirm which register to use.

[0273] If a user is notified of the availability of a specific checkout counter while they are selecting and adding items to their cart, they can check the checkout queue while making a purchase and see which checkout counter is available depending on the items they have added to their cart. This can deter users from abandoning their purchase altogether upon seeing a long queue, thus further improving the shopping experience.

[0274] <Modified form of the first embodiment> In the first embodiment described above, the system is configured to notify the user whether a specific payment device is available among multiple payment devices, based on information about the product the user has selected as the item to purchase. The user can choose to use the specific payment device or to use a payment device other than the one specified.

[0275] In contrast, based on the information of the products the user has selected as the target of purchase, if the user has selected the products described above, the system may allow the user to use only a specific payment device among multiple payment devices, and may not allow payment using any other payment devices. System 1 may also notify the user via the user's terminal device 40 or display device 30, etc., that the user cannot use payment using any other payment device and can only make a payment using the specific payment device.

[0276] For example, when a store launches a new product, if a user selects that new product, payment will only be accepted through a specific payment device among several available payment terminals. In this case, by notifying the user via the terminal device 40 or display device 30 that payment will only be accepted through a specific payment device, users purchasing the new product will be less likely to be confused about which payment device to use. Furthermore, store staff can easily grasp how well the new product is being sold by monitoring the usage of the specific payment device and the length of the checkout lines.

[0277] <Second Embodiment> The system 1 in the second embodiment will now be described. In the second embodiment, while a user is waiting in line at the register, the user is given a reward according to their position in the queue. This can further improve the user's purchasing experience.

[0278] <Operation of each device in System 1 in the second embodiment> Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in System 1 in the second embodiment. Figure 15 shows an example in which benefits are given to users who are waiting in line at the checkout counter and to users who have finished selecting products and have taken the action to join the checkout line, based on the inventory of the e-commerce site.

[0279] In step S1543, the control unit 490 receives an operation from the user to initiate payment at the store for the items included in the cart.

[0280] In step S1523, the control unit 203 detects that a user is in line to wait at the checkout counter based on information received from the user's terminal device 40 or detection results from sensors in the store.

[0281] For example, the control unit 203 performs the following processing to determine whether a user is waiting in line at the checkout counter and the number of users waiting in line at the checkout counter. • Refer to the history of when each user has made a reservation for payment at the register (POS operation history database 286). • As a sensor within the store, the number of users in line at each register is determined based on the images captured by cameras (e.g., camera 161A, etc.) capable of detecting users in line at each register.

[0282] In step S1545, the control unit 490 receives input requests from the user to use a specific service (first service: store app, e-commerce site, store operator's website, etc.) while the user is waiting in line at the register.

[0283] For example, the control unit 490 receives an operation from a user waiting in line at the register to use a specific service, as follows: • Accepts input operations for store application 482 (where user identification information is registered). • Accepts the operation to scan a QR code available to users waiting in line at the register (for example, a QR code placed at the user's waiting position in the store (e.g., a queue marker), or a QR code distributed by store staff).

[0284] In step S1525, the control unit 203 receives a user operation to use the first service and, based on the user's cart information (cart update history database 285), identifies the product to be provided to the user from among the products offered on the e-commerce site as value to be provided to the user.

[0285] For example, the value provided to the user includes the following: • Products of the same type as those included in the user's shopping cart, but which are not in stock at the physical store but are available in stock on the e-commerce site.

[0286] In step S1527, the control unit 203 transmits information containing the content identified as value to be provided to the user to the user's terminal device 40, which is waiting in line at the checkout. For example, the control unit 203 responds with the above information to the terminal device 40 that communicated with the server 20 in the process of step S1545.

[0287] In step S1547, the control unit 490 receives the content determined to be the value to be provided to the user from the server 20 and displays it on the screen. The control unit 490 also receives an operation from the user to receive the value.

[0288] In step S1529, the control unit 203 provides the user with the value that it has decided to provide to the user.

[0289] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in System 1 in the second embodiment. Figure 16 shows an example in which a user waiting in line at the register is given a reward in another service used by that user (for example, a game based on a game program).

[0290] In step S1625, the control unit 203 determines the value to be offered to the user according to the order in which the user is standing in the queue waiting to make a payment. For example, the control unit 203 determines parameters for the lottery process according to the order in which customers are lined up in the queue waiting for payment. The control unit 203 determines the following information according to the determined parameters. • Game objects available for use in games on a user's game account. • Value (products, etc.) that can be provided to users on e-commerce sites or in stores. • Types of purchase benefits given by store staff at the time of purchase

[0291] For example, server 20 sends the determined parameters described above to the game server that provides the game program. The game server may then perform the following processing. Based on the parameters, select one of several lottery tables to perform the lottery process and conduct the draw.

[0292] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in System 1 in the second embodiment. Figure 17 shows an example in which a user is given a benefit when they are waiting in line, if they are a repeat customer of the store.

[0293] In step S1725, the control unit 203 determines the value to be provided to the user based on the user information in the customer information database 281, the information in the POS operation history database 286 (the results of the user's purchase), and the cart update history database 285 (the user's shopping behavior in the store). For example, the value is determined based on whether the user is a repeat customer who frequently visits the store. Specifically, the control unit 203 refers to the user's payment history at the store and determines the value based on whether the number of payments made within a certain period meets certain conditions, whether the payment was made within the campaign period, etc. For example, the value may be determined based on the user's past purchase history. Specifically, the control unit 203 may decide to assign value to the user related to the product type if the product the user intends to purchase while waiting in line at the register meets certain conditions (for example, if the user previously purchased product "card" and is now waiting in line at the register to purchase a different version of product "card," indicating a relationship between the product type the user intended to purchase in the past and the product type the user intended to purchase now).

[0294] <Example of a screen in the second embodiment> Figure 18 shows an example screen for when users are given benefits according to their position in the queue while waiting to check out.

[0295] The example screen (A) in Figure 18 shows a scenario where the value offered to a user based on their shopping cart information is displayed to a user waiting in line at the checkout. The example screen (A) corresponds to each process in Figure 15.

[0296] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • The e-commerce site has inventory of the same type of product as the product included in the user's shopping cart information. • The e-commerce site has different versions of the same type of product. • By accessing the e-commerce site based on the notified information, users may be granted benefits.

[0297] For example, the control unit 490 may show the user that there are related products (different versions, different colors, different sizes, etc.) to the product the user has added to their cart, even though the product is not available in stores but is available on the e-commerce site.

[0298] Screen example (B) in Figure 18 shows a scenario where the value offered to a user waiting in line at the checkout counter is displayed based on the information in their shopping cart. Screen example (B) corresponds to each process in Figure 18.

[0299] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • Information about the register the user is currently waiting in line at among multiple registers. • Your position in line to pay at the register (what number in line you will be at to pay at the register) • The content of the benefits may change depending on the order in line at the checkout. • Depending on the order in line at the register, users can receive specific benefits in games for which they have an account. Specifically, the rewards in a game can include changes in the likelihood of a user acquiring game objects that appear in the game (changes in the appearance rate of certain game objects).

[0300] The control unit 490 displays the following information to the user in the register designation unit 132D. • Information about the register the user is currently waiting at (in the example shown, "Register B") • Information on the queue order at the checkout counter

[0301] Screen example (C) in Figure 18, similar to screen example (B), shows a scenario where the value offered to a user based on their shopping cart information is displayed to a user waiting in line at the checkout. This corresponds to the process in step S1625 of Figure 18.

[0302] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • Information about the register the user is currently waiting in line at among multiple registers. • Depending on the order in line at the checkout, users can receive specific benefits at the store where they are making their purchase. • Content of benefits available at the store

[0303] Specifically, the control unit 490 displays the following information in the notification unit 132B as details of the benefits that can be received at the store. • Users can receive benefits through equipment or items installed in stores. • An example of items placed in stores is the availability of multiple lottery boxes. • Users can participate in the drawing using a lottery box. • Depending on the user's position in the waiting line, which of the multiple lottery boxes will they be able to use to receive the prize (in the example shown, "Lottery Box G"). • The expiration date during which the user can receive the benefit (in the example shown, the period during which they can participate in the lottery). Furthermore, stores may offer customers items (such as character goods) from their inventory based on the results of a lottery held in a lottery box.

[0304] The example screen (D) in Figure 18 shows a scenario where a user who has returned to the store is notified that they will receive a special benefit while waiting in line at the checkout.

[0305] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • The user has visited the store again (is a repeat customer). • Repeat customers can use the benefits while waiting in line at the checkout. • Present the details of the benefit to the user.

[0306] The control unit 490 responds to user input operations to the notification unit 132B and presents the details of the benefits to the user.

[0307] <Summary of the second embodiment> (1) In the second embodiment, the following example was described, as shown in the screen example (A) of Figures 15 and 18. • Even if a product is out of stock at a physical store, users may be able to find out that it is available at other stores, such as e-commerce sites. • While the user is waiting in line at the checkout, the server 20 can provide information about products related to the item the user is trying to purchase in the store, and this information can be made available to the user. • Granting users benefits by accepting user actions (purchase, browsing, etc.) regarding inventory available at other stores such as e-commerce sites. This could improve the user experience while waiting in line.

[0308] (2) In the second embodiment, the following examples were described, as shown in the screen examples (B) and (C) of Figures 16 and 18. • The value a user receives from other services (game programs, e-commerce sites) or in stores may change depending on their position in the checkout line. This could improve the user experience while waiting in line.

[0309] (3) In the second embodiment, the following example was described, as shown in the screen example (D) of Figures 17 and 18. • Rewards are given to users while they are waiting in line at the register, based on the number of times they visit the store or their purchase history (number of purchases) at the store. This could improve the user experience while waiting in line.

[0310] <Third Embodiment> The system 1 in the third embodiment will now be described. In the third embodiment, an example will be described in which the timing for payment at the register can be reserved whether the user is inside or outside the store. Here, an example will be described in which the timing for payment at the register is reserved with priority given to users inside the store over users outside the store. This can further improve the purchasing experience for users inside the store.

[0311] <Operation of each device in the third embodiment> Figure 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in System 1 in the third embodiment.

[0312] In step S1941, the control unit 490 accepts an operation to reserve a time to make a payment at the store's cash register, regardless of whether the user is inside or outside the store.

[0313] In step S1943, the control unit 490 sends to the server the details of the reservation made by the user (including store information and information on when payment will be made at the register) and information on whether or not the user is inside the store. For example, the control unit 490 determines whether or not the user is inside the store by doing the following: • The system acquires the location information of the terminal device 40 and compares it with the location information of the store (if the location of the terminal device 40 and the location of the store are within a certain distance of each other, it is determined that the user is inside the store). • The terminal device 40 communicates with the communication equipment installed in the store (the terminal device 40 and the communication equipment communicate via short-range wireless communication, etc., to determine that a user is inside the store). • When entering a store, the system will authenticate the user.

[0314] The following are possible methods for authenticating users in a store: • A method of authenticating users based on facial recognition results while measuring the user's body temperature using a thermal camera installed in the store (e.g., at the entrance) when the user is pre-registered and eligible to enter. A method for reading information that identifies the ticket purchaser (e.g., a QR code) on a ticket (paper ticket, electronic ticket) for entry to an area where shops and other establishments are located (e.g., a mall with multiple shops, a theme park with attractions, etc.), using a reader in that area. A method for having a store's reader read user-identifiable information (e.g., a two-dimensional code) displayed in an application running on terminal device 40 that has undergone user verification (e.g., an application that accepts user registration based on a phone number).

[0315] In step S1923, the control unit 203 receives the details of the user's register reservation and updates the POS operation history database. The control unit 203 reserves the time when the user will use the register. The control unit 203 prioritizes reservations from users within the store over reservations from users outside the store.

[0316] The control unit 203 prioritizing reservations from in-store users over reservations from out-of-store users includes the following examples: If reservations for register use overlap between off-site and in-store users, and the reservation actions are made simultaneously within a certain period, the in-store user's reservation will take priority. • The time it takes to confirm a reservation from an external user is longer than when a reservation is made from an internal user.

[0317] In step S1925, if the control unit 203 can reserve the use of the cash register, it notifies the user's terminal device 40 of the reserved cash register information and the timing of its availability.

[0318] In step S1945, the control unit 490 accepts an operation to confirm a reservation at the register if the user is inside the store.

[0319] In step S1927, the control unit 203 confirms the user's reservation for the register.

[0320] <Example of a screen in the third embodiment> Figure 20 shows an example screen for accepting requests from users inside or outside the store to reserve a time to make a payment at the store. In the example shown, when a user reserves a time outside the store, it is referred to as a "provisional reservation," and the user can make a payment at the register once they confirm the reservation.

[0321] The example screen (A) in Figure 20 shows a scenario where the user is outside the store and the system accepts an operation to reserve a time to make a payment at the store's register.

[0322] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • You can reserve a time to use the store's checkout counter. • Candidates for the timing

[0323] The server 20, for example, by referring to the cart update history database 285, the POS operation history database 286, etc., causes the terminal device 40 to present the following information as potential timings for when a user might use the register. • Information on estimated times when checkout lines are less likely to be crowded at stores, based on past purchase history.

[0324] The control unit 490 accepts the operation reception unit 132C to reserve a time for the user to use the register, even when the user is outside the store.

[0325] The control unit 490 displays information on the login information display unit 132E indicating whether the user is inside or outside the store (in the illustrated example, the user is "outside the store").

[0326] The example screen (B) in Figure 20 shows a scenario where a user, while inside the store, is prompted to reserve a time to use the cash register.

[0327] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • Information about the register that can be reserved for use (in the example shown, it is "Register B") • Possible timings for booking to use the register • Users inside the store can reserve a spot at the register with priority over users outside the store.

[0328] The control unit 490 accepts an operation request from the operation reception unit 132C to reserve a time for the user to use the cash register, provided the user is inside the store.

[0329] The control unit 490 displays the following information in the register designation unit 132D. • Registers that allow users to reserve their use. • Number of users waiting in line at the checkout

[0330] The control unit 490 displays on the login information display unit 132E that the user is inside the store.

[0331] The example screen (C) in Figure 20 shows a scenario where a user reserves a time to use the register, and is rewarded for using the register at that reserved time.

[0332] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • The customer reserved a time to use the register and made the payment according to that reservation (for example, making the payment within a certain period including the reserved time). • Granting benefits to users by making payments according to the specified timing.

[0333] The control unit 490 receives input operations from the operation reception unit 132C to receive the benefits granted to the user.

[0334] For example, a reward could be content related to the user's shopping cart information (the products the user has purchased) (for instance, if the product is part of a campaign, it could be an image that can be obtained by participating in the campaign).

[0335] The example screen (D) in Figure 20 shows the situation where a user who has reserved a time to use the register outside the store confirms that reservation upon arriving at the store.

[0336] The control unit 490 displays the following information as the content of the notification to the user in the notification unit 132B. • The user made a reservation to use the checkout counter outside the store. • The user must have visited the store by that time. • Confirming a reservation for when a user visits the store to use the checkout counter.

[0337] If a user reserves a time to use the register outside the store but does not arrive within a certain period before that time, the purchase and payment at the register will not be completed in time. Therefore, when server 20 determines that there is a high probability that the user who reserved the time outside the store will not arrive, it cancels the reservation for using the register. In other words, if a reservation is made outside the store, it may be treated as a "provisional reservation," and an action may be required to confirm the reservation.

[0338] In this case, the server 20 may notify users who have reserved a time to wait in line at the register within the store that the reservation has been canceled, and may accept requests from users within the store to use the register at that time. Since users within the store are assumed to be more likely to continue their purchasing activities and make payments within the store compared to users outside the store, this can further improve the purchasing experience for users within the store.

[0339] 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.

[0340] <Note> The details described in each of the above embodiments are noted below.

[0341] (Note 1) A program for operating a computer (20) equipped with a processor (29), wherein the program causes the processor to perform a step of acquiring information (285) of products selected by a user as the object of purchase at a store, and the store has multiple payment devices (10) installed and accepts payments from the store's users through the payment devices, and the program further causes the processor to perform a step (S1225, 132B) of making it possible for the user to make payment at a specific payment device among the multiple payment devices if the information of the selected products satisfies predetermined conditions (283).

[0342] (Note 2) The program described in (Appendix 1) allows the user to use a specific payment device if, as a predetermined condition, the number of items selected by the user meets certain requirements.

[0343] (Note 3) The program described in (Appendix 1 or 2), which, in the step of making it available, allows the user to use a specific payment device if, as a predetermined condition, at least one of the following is met: the product selected by the user includes a specific product, or the combination of products meets certain conditions.

[0344] (Note 4) A program for operating a computer equipped with a processor, the program causing the processor to perform the steps of: accepting input of first information for using the first service, rather than input of information for registering to the first service, associated with information of a user waiting in line to pay at a store (S1525); and determining the value to be provided to the user in the first service according to the first information (S1525), as described in any of the appendices 1 to 3.

[0345] (Note 5) In the receiving step, the program receives information about the product selected by the user as the object of purchase as first information (S1521), and in the decision step, determines the value based on the information of the selected product (S1525), as described in (Appendix 4).

[0346] (Note 6) The first service is an e-commerce (electronic commerce) site related to a business operator that operates a store, and in the decision step, based on the information of the selected product, the program (S1525), described in (Appendix 5), determines the value of the product offered to the user from among the products offered on the e-commerce site.

[0347] (Note 7) A program that determines the value in the decision step according to the order in which users line up in the queue waiting to pay (S1625), as described in any of the appendices 4 to 6.

[0348] (Note 8) In the first service, multiple characters are made available to the user, and in the step of making a decision, the program determines which character to provide to the user from among the multiple characters as a value by performing a lottery process according to the order (S1625), as described in (Appendix 7).

[0349] (Note 9) In the decision-making step, if the first service is a store-related service, the value provided to the user is character goods offered at the store; if the first service is a game based on a game program, the value provided to the user is characters usable in the game (S1625), the program as described in (Appendix 8).

[0350] (Note 10) In the decision-making step, the program determines value as first information, based on user-related information, and the user-related information includes at least one of the following: whether the user is a repeat customer who has used the store multiple times, or information on the history of products the user has previously purchased at the store (S1725), (Appendix 4 to 9).

[0351] (Note 11) A program as described in any of the appendices 1 to 10, which further causes the processor to perform the steps of reserving a time for the user to make a payment at a store (S1923) and notifying the user of the reserved time.

[0352] (Note 12) The program described in (Appendix 11) reserves a timing by accepting an operation from the store user's terminal to reserve the timing of payment at the store during the reservation step.

[0353] (Note 13) The program described in (Appendix 12) allows users who are not physically present at the store to reserve a time for payment at the store via the network, even from their own devices, during the reservation step.

[0354] (Note 14) In the reservation step, if the program receives reservations from both users present at the store and users not present at the store, it prioritizes accepting reservations from users present at the store (S1923), as described in (Appendix 13).

[0355] (Note 15) A method performed by a computer equipped with a processor, the method comprising a program comprising: a step of the processor obtaining information of products selected by a user as the subject of purchase in a store; a step of the processor further comprising the step of the processor making it possible for the user to make payment at a specific payment device among the multiple payment devices if the information of the selected products satisfies predetermined conditions.

[0356] (Note 16) An information processing device comprising a control unit, wherein the control unit performs the step of acquiring information on products selected by a user as items to be purchased at a store, and the store has multiple payment devices installed and accepts payments from store users via the payment devices, and the control unit further performs the step of enabling the user to make payment at a specific payment device among the multiple payment devices if the information on the selected products meets predetermined conditions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0357] 1: System, 10: POS terminal, 13: Input device, 14: Output device, 15: Memory, 16: Storage, 17: Voice processing unit, 19: Processor, 20: Server, 25: Memory, 26: Storage, 29: Processor, 30: Display device, 40: Terminal device, 80: Network, 120: Communication unit, 131: Reader, 132: Keyboard, 132A: Cart display unit, 132B: Notification unit, 132C: Operation reception unit, 132D: Register designation unit, 132E: Login information display unit, 133: De Vice, 141: Display, 161: Camera, 161: First Camera, 162: Second Camera, 171: Microphone, 172: Speaker, 180: Memory Unit, 181: Product Information, 182: Specific Customer Information, 183: Employee Information, 190: Control Unit, 191: Operation Reception Unit, 192: Transceiver Unit, 193: Accounting Processing Unit, 194: Display Control Unit, 195: Memory Control Unit, 201: Communication Unit, 202: Memory Unit, 203: Control Unit, 281: Customer Information Database, 282: Product Information Database, 283: Store Store inventory database, 284: EC site inventory database, 285: Cart update history database, 285: POS operation history database, 286: POS operation history database, 411: Antenna, 412: Antenna, 420: First communication unit, 421: Second communication unit, 430: Input device, 431: Device, 432: Display, 440: Audio processing unit, 441: Microphone, 442: Speaker, 450: Location information sensor, 460: Camera, 470: Motion sensor, 480: Recording Memory Unit, 481: Game Program, 482: Store Application, 490: Control Unit, 491: Operation Reception Unit, 492: Transmit / Receive Unit, 493: Data Processing Unit, 494: Notification Control Unit, 495: Memory Control Unit, 2041: Receiving Control Module, 2042: Transmitting Control Module, 2043: POS Setting Module, 2044: Cart Management Module, 2045: Inventory Management Module, 2046: POS Terminal Management Module, 2047: Value Determination Module, 2048: Reservation Processing Module.

Claims

1. A program for operating a computer equipped with a processor, wherein the program is configured to operate the processor, The process involves receiving a payment request from the user's device at the store, and If the aforementioned request is received, the steps include obtaining information regarding the order in which the user makes payments at the store at the time the request is received, The steps include: enabling payment using a specific payment device among multiple payment devices installed in the store when the user's stay time in the store meets predetermined conditions; A step of determining the content of the benefits to be granted to the user based on the information regarding the order, The steps include sending the data of the determined benefit and the information of the payment device available to the user to the terminal, A program that executes the command.

2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned benefit is a game object that can be used in a game based on the game program.

3. The program according to claim 2, wherein in the step of determining, the content of the game object is determined by a lottery in which the lottery probabilities differ according to the order.

4. The aforementioned processor, If the aforementioned request is received, the steps include obtaining information on the product selected by the user as the item to be purchased, The program according to claim 1, which causes the user to perform the step of presenting the user with information about the product that the user has selected as the object of purchase.

5. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the step of determining, the content of the benefit is determined based on at least one of the user's visit history to the store and the user's purchase history at the store.

6. A method to be performed on a computer having a processor, wherein the processor The process involves receiving a payment request from the user's device at the store, and If the aforementioned request is received, the steps include obtaining information regarding the order in which the user makes payments at the store at the time the request is received, The steps include: enabling payment using a specific payment device among multiple payment devices installed in the store when the user's stay time in the store meets predetermined conditions; A step of determining the content of the benefits to be granted to the user based on the information regarding the order, The steps include sending the data of the determined benefit and the information of the payment device available to the user to the terminal, How to do it.

7. An information processing apparatus comprising a control unit and a storage unit, wherein the control unit is The process involves receiving a payment request from the user's device at the store, and If the aforementioned request is received, the steps include obtaining information regarding the order in which the user makes payments at the store at the time the request is received, The steps include: enabling payment using a specific payment device among multiple payment devices installed in the store when the user's stay time in the store meets predetermined conditions; A step of determining the content of the benefits to be granted to the user based on the information regarding the order, The steps include sending the data of the determined benefit and the information of the payment device available to the user to the terminal, An information processing device that performs the following actions.

8. A means of receiving payment requests from the user's terminal at a store, If the aforementioned request is received, means for obtaining information regarding the order in which the user makes a payment at the store at the time the request is received, A means to enable payment at a specific payment device among multiple payment devices installed in the store when the user's stay time in the store meets predetermined conditions, A means for determining the content of the benefits to be granted to the user based on the information regarding the order, The terminal includes means for sending the data of the determined benefit and information on payment devices available to the user, A system equipped with these features.

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