Stamping system

Abstract

To provide a stamping system that can accurately read information before stamping and ensure the accuracy of information related to stamping. [Solution] The stamp book ID attached to the stamp book is reliably read by an RFID reader 6 provided on the placement section 4 of the stamp rally stand 2 (stand). When the operation of stamping 15 onto the stamp book with the stamp book ID attached, which is placed on the stamp rally stand 2, is detected, the stamp book ID attached to the stamp book and the stand ID attached to the stamp rally stand 2 are transmitted externally. The transmitted stamp book ID and stand ID are received by a server (external device), and information regarding the stamping of 15 onto the stamp book (stamping information) is managed by the server. This ensures consistency between the actual stamping on the stamp book and the stamping information managed by the server, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the stamping information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a stamp imprinting system using non-contact communication technology.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a stamp rally in which stamps are collected along a certain theme at tourist attractions, commercial facilities, theme parks, etc. is known. Participants in the stamp rally visit a plurality of bases (stamp spots) where the stamps are installed, and collect the stamps by imprinting the stamps on a dedicated backing sheet, booklet, etc. Depending on the stamp rally, prizes such as souvenirs are given to the participants according to the number of stamps collected.

[0003] As a system used for such a stamp rally, Patent Document 1 below discloses a system in which a stamp is imprinted on a stamp book in which an RFID chip is embedded, using a stamp device provided with a control board (control unit) having the function of an RFID reader / writer. In this system, when a user lifts the stamp device from the stamp stand to imprint a stamp on the stamp book at each base, the RFID reader / writer communication switch (R / W communication switch) provided in the stamp device is turned on, and the RFID chip that has entered the communicable range is detected via the RFID antenna. The stamp device (control unit) reads the base data written in the detected RFID chip, and determines whether its own base data has already been written in the RFID chip. That is, it is determined whether the stamp by the stamp device has already been imprinted. As a result, when its own base data has not been written, the stamp device transmits data having its own base passage history and time stamp to the RFID chip by non-contact communication to write it in the memory of the RFID chip. On the other hand, when its own base data has already been written, the stamp device outputs an error notification sound from the speaker (see paragraphs 0032 to 0051 of Patent Document 1, etc.).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-266193 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] In the system described in Patent Document 1, a control board and RFID antenna with RFID reader / writer functionality are located inside the stamping device housing, on the back side of the printing plate (see paragraph 0036 and Figure 9 of Patent Document 1, etc.). The printing plate for stamping is generally made of a rubber printing body, and when a contactless data reading function using RFID or the like is provided on the back side of such a printing body, there are concerns about a decrease in reading accuracy.

[0006] Furthermore, in the system described in Patent Document 1, if the stamping device (control unit) determines that the RFID chip (stamp book) does not contain the user's own location data, the system writes the user's own location data to the RFID chip based on that determination. As a result, even if the stamp is not actually applied to the stamp book (the object to be stamped) (before it is applied), the location data is written to the RFID chip (stamp book). This means that even if the stamp is not applied to the stamp book, it is treated as if it were, which leads to a lack of data accuracy.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its objective is to provide a stamping system that can accurately read information on an object to be stamped and ensure the accuracy of information related to stamping. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The stamping system of the present invention is Seal The fact that it was done A stamp having a detection unit capable of detecting, A stand having a mounting section on which an object to be stamped is placed, and a reading section capable of reading unique information attached to the object to be stamped placed on the mounting section without contact, A storage unit that stores identification information attached to at least one of the stamp and the base, The reading unit reads the unique information and the identification information, The fact that a seal has been affixed to the aforementioned object to be stamped The detection unit can check A transmitting unit that transmits information to the outside world upon learning it, The transmitting unit receives the unique information and identification information transmitted by the transmitting unit and provides information regarding the imprinting of the stamp on the object to be stamped. The system registers stamping information that includes information that can identify the location where the stamped stamp is placed, and records the stamping status of the object to be stamped. An external device for managing, This is the gist of it.

[0009] According to this, the unique information attached to the object to be stamped is read from the stand side, so the reading is performed reliably. Then, the unique information read from the stand side and the identification information attached to at least one of the stamp and the stand side are used. For the object to be stamped Stamp The fact that it was done Upon detection, it is transmitted externally and received by an external device. The fact that it was done The detection is performed on the stamp side (detection unit), so the stamp is pressed. The fact that it was done False detection is unlikely to occur. In this way, when stamping an object placed on the stand (mounting part) the stamp is pressed The mark When the process is actually carried out, unique information and identification information are transmitted, and each of the transmitted pieces of information is received by an external device. Therefore, information regarding the actual stamping of the object to be stamped and the stamping is managed by the external device. (Stamping status) This ensures consistency with the existing data. As a result, it is possible to accurately read the unique information attached to the object to be stamped, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the information related to the stamping.

[0011] In the stamping system of the present invention, The storage unit and the transmission unit are provided on the base. The aforementioned stand is connectable to the aforementioned external device via a network. It may be configured in this way.

[0012] By doing so, the function of reading the unique information (reading unit), the function of storing the identification information (storage unit), and the function of transmitting the unique information and the identification information to the outside (transmission unit) are aggregated on the pedestal, and the pedestal can be connected to an external device via a network. As a result, the system can be rationalized. In addition, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the stamp and the risk of failure.

[0013] In the stamping system of the present invention, the stamp and the pedestal are installed at a plurality of bases, and the pedestal installed at each of the plurality of bases can be connected to the external device via a network. It may be configured as described above.

[0014] By doing so, the pedestal at each base of the stamp and the pedestal installed at a plurality of bases can be connected to an external device via a network. As a result, information (stamping status) regarding the stamping of the stamp at each base on the stamping object can be centrally managed, and it becomes possible to provide a service using the information.

[0015] In the stamping system of the present invention, the external device can be connected to a terminal used by the owner of the stamping object via a network the law of nature and It is possible to check the stamping status of the object to be stamped using the SNS (Social Networking Service) app installed on the aforementioned terminal. It may be configured as described above.

[0016] By doing so, the terminal used by the owner of the stamping object and the external device that manages the stamping of the stamp on the stamping object Press stamping status In particular can be connected via a network It is possible to check the stamping status of an object using an SNS app installed on the device. . As a result, it becomes possible to provide a service that links the stamping of the stamp on the stamping object and the terminal of the owner of the stamping object.

Effects of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention described above, it is possible to provide a fingerprinting system that can accurately read information before fingerprinting and ensure the accuracy of information regarding fingerprinting.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing an overview of the fingerprinting system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an outline of a stamp rally stand. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a processing device included in the stamp rally stand. [Figure 4] It is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of a stamp. [Figure 5] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a server. [Figure 6] (a) is a diagram showing an example of a table of a user information management database, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a table of a fingerprinting information management database. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a stamp book, (a) is a diagram showing the state where the stamp book is closed, and (b) is a diagram showing the state where the stamp book is open. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart of the stamp rally stand side processing. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart of the server side processing.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, the case where the fingerprinting system of the present invention is applied to a stamp rally in which stamps are collected along a certain theme (stamp rally system) will be described as an example.

[0020] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram showing an overview of the stamping system 1 according to the embodiment, Figure 2 is a diagram showing an overview of the stamp rally stand 2, Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the processing unit 7 provided in the stamp rally stand 2, Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the stamp 15, Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the server 30, Figure 6(a) is a diagram showing an example of a table in the user information management database 32a, Figure 6(b) is a diagram showing an example of a table in the stamping information management database 32b, Figure 7(a) is a diagram showing the stamp book 40 in a closed state, Figure 7(b) is a diagram showing the stamp book 40 in an open state, Figure 8 is a flowchart of the processing on the stamp rally stand side, and Figure 9 is a flowchart of the processing on the server side.

[0021] [Overall System Configuration] As shown in Figure 1, the stamping system (also referred to as "this system") 1 according to this embodiment comprises a stamp rally stand 2 as a base, a stamp 15 (see Figure 2) provided in a pair (one-to-one) with the stamp rally stand 2, and a server 30 as an external device.

[0022] Stamp rally stations 2 are installed at multiple stamp spots (also called "spots") within the facilities where the stamp rally is conducted. Each stamp rally station 2 at a spot (location) is connected to the server 30 via the internet 50, which serves as a network.

[0023] The stamps 15 (see Figure 2) provided at each stamp rally station 2 are configured so that the impression obtained at each station is different. In other words, each stamp 15 is different for each stamp rally station 2 (each station). For example, if there are four stamp spots, from the first to the fourth station, four different stamps (stamp designs) will be provided at each station so that four different impressions can be obtained during a stamp rally visiting these four stations.

[0024] Server 30 is an information processing device for managing information and providing services related to the stamp rally, and it has the functions of both a management server and a web server. This server 30 may be configured as, for example, a cloud server. Server 30 may also be configured as an on-premises server. Alternatively, server 30 may consist of two servers, for example, a management server and a web server.

[0025] The following provides a detailed explanation of the stamp rally station 2, stamps 15, and server 30 that constitute this system 1, as well as the stamp book 40 used as the object to be stamped in the stamp rally using this system 1 (also referred to as "this stamp rally").

[0026] [Stamp rally setup] As shown in Figure 2, the stamp rally station 2 is mainly composed of a box-shaped enclosure 3. The top surface of the enclosure 3 is provided with a mounting section 4 on which the stamp book 40 (described later), which will be stamped with stamps 15, is placed. The stamp 15 is placed on the upper rear (back) surface of the mounting section 4. In addition, a display panel 5 is provided on the rear (back) of the enclosure 3 to display the location of the stamp rally, the event name, the spot name, etc.

[0027] The stamp rally stand 2 in this embodiment is sized to be placed on a table or other tabletop. Specifically, the external dimensions of the housing 3 are, for example, 400 mm wide, 400 mm deep, and 150 mm high. By making the stamp rally stand 2 (housing 3) relatively small in this way, installation, relocation, storage, and maintenance of the stamp rally stand 2 become easier. In addition, the flexibility of the location and number of spots for the stamp rally increases. Note that the stamp rally stand 2 (housing 3) does not have to be small; for example, it may be configured to be sized for use by being placed directly on the floor or ground.

[0028] The mounting unit 4 incorporates an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader 6 as a reading unit, the housing 3 houses a processing unit 7, and a speaker 8 is provided on the front of the housing 3 as an alert unit. The RFID reader 6, processing unit 7, and speaker 8 are connected to each other by signal lines.

[0029] Furthermore, the housing 3 is equipped with a power supply unit (not shown) that converts AC power from an external power source, such as a household power supply, into DC power to supply the power necessary for the operation of the electrical components of the stamp rally stand 2. These electrical components include an RFID reader 6, a processing unit 7, and a speaker 8. The power supply unit (power supply for the stamp rally stand 2) can be turned on and off by operating a power switch (not shown) located at a predetermined position on the housing 3. The power supply unit may also be a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery.

[0030] The RFID reader 6 is a device that communicates wirelessly with an RFID tag (including an NFC tag in this embodiment) and reads the information stored in the tag. The RFID reader 6 is composed of an antenna unit (coil antenna) (not shown) for communicating wirelessly with the tag, a wireless communication control unit (RFID controller) (not shown) for processing related to wireless communication, and an interface unit (not shown) for sending and receiving data with an external processing unit (processing unit 7, described later in this embodiment). In this embodiment, the RFID reader 6 is configured to function (be on) while the power supply (power supply unit) of the stamp rally stand 2 is turned on.

[0031] The RFID reader 6, which supports NFC tags, can read tag identification information and other data contactlessly at a communication distance of a few centimeters (for example, about 10 cm) using Near Field Communication (NFC) in the 13.56 MHz frequency band (HF band).

[0032] In this embodiment, an RFID reader 6 provided on the mounting unit 4 communicates contactlessly with an NFC tag 45 provided on a stamp book 40 (see Figure 7) described later, which is placed on the mounting unit 4, and reads the information of the IC chip 45a contained in the NFC tag 45. Communication between the RFID reader 6 and the NFC tag 45 is performed by an electromagnetic induction method (electromagnetic coupling method) using a magnetic field. Specifically, a magnetic field is generated when a high-frequency current (for example, 13.56 MHz) flows through the antenna part (not shown) of the RFID reader 6, and when the NFC tag 45 is located within the communication range of the antenna part, the magnetic field electromagnetically couples with the antenna 45b contained in the NFC tag 45, generating an electromotive force in the antenna 45b on the NFC tag 45 side. As a result, power is wirelessly supplied to the IC chip 45a contained in the NFC tag 45, the IC chip 45a becomes operational, and data communication between the RFID reader 6 and the NFC tag 45 becomes possible.

[0033] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the RFID reader 6 is positioned to the left of the center within the mounting section 4. This is because, as will be described later, the stamp book 40 used in this stamp rally has a sticker-type NFC tag 45 attached to the back of its cover 41 (back of cover 41b) (see Figure 7(b)), and when the stamp book 40 is placed on the mounting section 4 in an open state, the cover 41 of the stamp book 40 is considered to be positioned to the left of the mounting section 4. This improves the accuracy of reading the information from the NFC tag 45 provided on the stamp book 40.

[0034] The position of the RFID reader 6 provided in the mounting section 4 can be changed as appropriate. For example, if an NFC tag 45 is provided on the back cover of the stamp book 40, the RFID reader 6 may be placed to the right of the center within the mounting section 4. Alternatively, the RFID reader 6 may be placed in the center within the mounting section 4. The position of the RFID reader 6 is not particularly important as long as it can reliably read the information from the NFC tag 45 provided on the stamp book 40.

[0035] The processing unit 7 is configured using a small single-board computer. As shown in Figure 3, this processing unit 7 comprises at least a control unit 9, a storage unit 10, an input unit 11, an output unit 12, and a communication unit 13.

[0036] The control unit 9 controls the operation of the processing unit 7 and is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like. This control unit 9 executes related processes when the stamp book 40 is placed on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement unit 4) or when stamps 15 are applied. Details of the processes executed by the control unit 9 will be described later.

[0037] The memory unit 10 stores the OS (Operating System) and programs necessary for the operation of the processing unit 7, as well as data necessary for control processing by the control unit 9, and is composed of ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, etc.

[0038] The memory unit 10 stores the station ID, which is identification information attached to the stamp rally station 2. The station ID is unique information attached to (set) the stamp rally station 2, and the station ID is different for each stamp rally station 2 installed at each spot. For this reason, the station ID can be said to be information for identifying or specifying which spot the stamp rally station 2 is installed at. In other words, it can be said to be information for identifying or specifying the spot. Also, as mentioned above, since each stamp rally station 2 is provided with a pair of stamps 15 (one to one), the station ID can also be said to be information (stamp ID) unique to the stamp 15 installed at each spot. Therefore, the memory unit 10 may store the stamp ID, which is identification information attached to the stamp 15, in place of or in addition to the station ID.

[0039] The input unit 11 receives various inputs to the processing unit 7 and is composed of an input interface, etc. In this embodiment, the RFID reader 6 and the load sensor 23, which will be described later and is provided on the stamp 15, are connected to the input unit 11, and information read by the RFID reader 6 and detection signals from the load sensor 23 are input.

[0040] The output unit 12 outputs various types of signals from the processing unit 7 and is composed of an output interface and the like. In this embodiment, the speaker 8 is connected to the output unit 12, and a predetermined sound is output from the speaker 8.

[0041] The communication unit 13 communicates with external devices via a network and is composed of a communication interface that performs wireless communication such as Wi-Fi communication or Bluetooth communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11 standard (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are registered trademarks). In this embodiment, communication with the server 30 is performed via the internet 50. That is, the processing unit 7 (stamp rally stand 2) is connected to the server 30 so as to be able to communicate via the internet 50.

[0042] [Stamp composition] The stamp 15 is composed of a so-called self-inking stamp, which consists of a porous stamp material (printing body) impregnated with ink. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the stamp 15 mainly comprises a stamp body 16, an outer frame 17 that houses the stamp body 16 so that it can move up and down, and a grip 18 (handling part) fitted onto the stamp body 16.

[0043] The stamp body 16 is a component that holds the printing element 19 and the ink-absorbing element 20 at its lower part. The printing element 19 is made of a printing material such as sponge rubber having countless continuous pores, and a printing surface 19a is formed on the lower surface of the printing element 19. The ink-absorbing element 20 is laminated on the upper surface of the printing element 19, and ink is supplied from the ink-absorbing element 20 to the printing element 19. The stamp body 16 also has an ink replenishment passage 21 formed therein for replenishing ink from the upper side of the ink-absorbing element 20.

[0044] In this embodiment, the shape of the printing body 19 (print surface 19a) is rectangular, but its shape is not limited to this, and it can be round, oval, or the like. Also, in this embodiment, an ink absorber 20 is provided on the upper surface of the printing body 19, but the ink absorber 20 is not required.

[0045] The outer frame 17 has openings at its upper and lower ends, and the stamp body 16 is mounted inside the outer frame 17, with a spring 22 acting as an elastic member interposed thereto, allowing it to move up and down. Normally (when the stamp 15 is not in use), the stamp body 16 inside the outer frame 17 is biased upward by the elastic force of the spring 22 so that the stamp surface 19a is positioned above the lower end opening of the outer frame 17 (see Figure 4). From this state, the stamp body 16 (grip 18) is lowered against the elastic force of the spring 22, and the stamp surface 19a is pressed (brought into contact) with the object to be stamped through the lower end opening of the outer frame 17, thereby creating an impression on the object.

[0046] A grip 18 is detachably fitted to the top of the stamp body 16, which is mounted on the outer frame 17. The user of the stamp 15 (stamp rally participant) holds the grip 18 in their hand to perform the stamping operation. By removing the grip 18, ink can be refilled through the ink refill channel 21.

[0047] Inside the grip 18 (inside the stamp 15), between the grip 18 and the stamp body 16, there is a load sensor 23, which is a detection unit capable of detecting the force applied to the grip 18 when the stamp 15 is pressed (stamping operation), and a signal processing board 24, which is a signal processing unit that processes the detection signal output from the load sensor 23.

[0048] The load sensor 23 is composed of a load cell or the like that outputs an electrical signal according to the load. The signal processing board 24 includes an amplification circuit that amplifies the minute voltage signal output from the load sensor 23, a filter circuit that reduces noise components, and an output circuit that converts the amplified signal into a predetermined signal format and outputs it externally. The load sensor 23 and the signal processing board 24 are collectively referred to as a load detection device, and the load detection device provided on the stamp 15 is also referred to as an impression detection device.

[0049] In this embodiment, when the load detected by the load sensor 23 (the load at the time of stamping) is a predetermined load (for example, 1 kgf to 3 kgf), the detection signal from the load sensor 23 is output via the signal processing board 24. In this case, the load can be determined, for example, by using the standard load when stamping with a self-inking stamp as a guide. The detection signal from the load sensor 23 is output when the stamping operation of the stamp 15 is performed (at the time of stamping), so the detection signal from the load sensor 23 is also a signal indicating that stamping (stamping operation) has been performed (also called a "stamping signal"). Note that stamping operation means the action or act of stamping.

[0050] The signal processing board 24 of the stamp 15 is electrically connected to the processing unit 7 of the stamp rally stand 2 by a cable 25 (see Figure 2). Through this cable 25, the signal output from the signal processing board 24, i.e., the detection signal from the load sensor 23, is input to the input unit 11 (see Figure 3). Also, through the cable 25, power for operation is supplied to the load sensor 23 and the signal processing board 24 from the aforementioned power supply unit (not shown) located inside the stamp rally stand 2 (inside the housing 3). In other words, the cable 25 is configured as a multi-core cable including signal lines and power lines. In this way, by connecting the stamp 15 (signal processing board 24) and the stamp rally stand 2 (processing unit 7) with the cable 25 (wired), the stamp 15 is installed on the stamp rally stand 2, and theft of the stamp 15 can be prevented.

[0051] As described above, in this embodiment, a load sensor 23 capable of detecting stamping operations is provided on the stamp 15, and the stamping operation is detected on the stamp side, making it difficult for false detections of stamping operations to occur. In this regard, for example, suppose a load sensor is provided near the mounting part 4 of the stamp rally stand 2, and the stamping operation is detected on the stamp rally stand side. In this case, if force is unexpectedly applied when setting the stamp book on the stamp rally stand 2, this force may be detected by the load sensor and may be mistakenly detected as a stamping operation. In this respect, by providing the load sensor 23 on the stamp 15, such false detections of stamping operations can be suppressed.

[0052] In this embodiment, a load sensor 23 is used as a detection unit capable of detecting the stamping operation of the stamp 15. However, the detection unit is not limited to this, and for example, a proximity sensor or limit switch that detects the vertical movement of the stamp body 16 and / or grip 18, an acceleration sensor that detects the movement acceleration of the stamp 15, a gyro sensor that detects the tilt of the stamp 15, a proximity sensor that measures the distance to the object to be stamped, a physical switch, or image analysis by a built-in camera may be used as the detection unit to detect the stamping operation.

[0053] [Server Configuration] As shown in Figure 5, the server 30 is configured to include at least a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, and a communication unit 33. The power required for the operation of the server 30 is supplied from a power supply unit (not shown).

[0054] The control unit 31 controls the operation of the server 30 and is composed of a CPU and other components. This control unit 31 executes processes related to the management of the stamp rally using this system 1. Details of the processes executed by the control unit 31 (server 30) will be described later.

[0055] The storage unit 32 stores the OS and programs necessary for the operation of the server 30, data necessary for control processing by the control unit 31, etc., and is composed of ROM, RAM, flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD), etc.

[0056] The memory unit 32 stores a user information management database 32a that manages (stores) information about participants in this stamp rally (also called "users"), and a stamp information management database 32b that manages information about stamping with the stamps 15 provided at each spot's stamp rally stand 2. Databases are referred to as "DB".

[0057] The user information management DB32a, acting as the user information management unit, stores user IDs, passwords, email addresses, telephone numbers, and stamp book IDs, for example, as shown in Figure 6(a).

[0058] The User ID is information used to identify or specify a person who receives various services from this System 1, that is, a participant (user) in this stamp rally, and is a type of user information.

[0059] A password is information used to authenticate a user.

[0060] An email address is information that indicates the recipient of an email used in an email application installed on a mobile device (not shown in the illustration) owned (used) by a user (also called a "user device"). Like a user ID, it is information used to identify or specify a user and is a type of user information.

[0061] A phone number is a mobile phone number used by a phone application installed on a user's device. Like a user ID or email address, it is information used to identify or specify a user, and is a type of user information.

[0062] The stamp book ID is assigned to the stamp book 40 used in this stamp rally and is unique information for that stamp book 40. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, the NFC tag 45 (IC chip 45a) provided on the stamp book 40 has the stamp book ID unique to that stamp book 40 recorded on it, and the stamp book ID as unique information is assigned to the stamp book 40 by the NFC tag 45. There is a one-to-one relationship between the stamp book 40 and the stamp book ID, and the stamp book ID (NFC tag 45) is different for each stamp book 40. Participants (users) of this stamp rally can register the stamp book ID of the stamp book 40 they use (own).

[0063] Information is registered in the user information management DB32a, for example, when a user operates their own terminal (user terminal) to access a website provided on the server 30 via the internet 50 and enters various necessary information (registers as a user) through that website.

[0064] Note that registration of email address, telephone number, and stamp book ID among the information registered (stored) in the user information management DB32a is optional. Registering a stamp book ID enables the linking of the user ID and the stamp book ID. This allows, for example, the stamping history of the user's stamp book 40 to be checked on the System 1 website by linking with information managed in the stamping information management DB32b (see Figure 6(b)).

[0065] Furthermore, for user information registered in the user information management DB32a, information other than the stamp book ID (user ID, password, email address, phone number) can also be reused from the account information of an SNS (Social Networking Service) app installed on the user's terminal. In this case, it becomes possible to link this stamp rally with the SNS account. This allows, for example, the progress of the stamp rally (the status of stamping in the stamp book 40) to be checked in real time via SNS by linking with the information managed in the stamp information management DB32b (see Figure 6(b)).

[0066] The stamping information management DB32b, which functions as the stamping information management unit, stores, for example, the stamp book ID, user ID, and stamping history, as shown in Figure 6(b).

[0067] The stamp book ID is the same as the stamp book ID stored in the user information management DB32a mentioned above. However, the registration of the stamp book ID in the stamp information management DB32b is triggered by the stamping (stamping operation) of the stamp 15 provided on the stamp rally stand 2, which is connected to the server 30.

[0068] The user ID is the same as the user ID stored in the aforementioned user information management DB32a. However, the registration of the user ID in the stamp information management DB32b is performed when the stamp 15 provided on the stamp rally stand 2, which is connected to the server 30, is stamped (stamped operation is performed), provided that the user ID and the stamp book ID are stored in association (linked) in the aforementioned user information management DB32a.

[0069] The stamping record is information (also called "stamping information") related to stamping a stamp 15 provided on a stamp rally stand 2 that can connect to the server 30. The stamping information can consist of, for example, information to identify the type of stamp 15 that was stamped (also called "stamp information"), information to identify the spot where the stamp 15 was placed (also called "spot information"), and information to identify the date and time the stamp was made (also called "date and time information").

[0070] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6(b), the stamp information is constructed by combining spot information and date / time information. The spot information is information corresponding to the station ID attached to the stamp rally station 2. The date / time information is information obtained by the timer function (calendar function) of the processing unit 7 or server 30 of the stamp rally station 2.

[0071] As will be explained in more detail later, when a stamp 15 is applied to the stamp rally station 2, stamping record information, including the station ID of the stamp rally station 2 that is paired with the stamp 15, is sent to the server 30. The server 30 (control unit 31) is configured to register stamping information (spot information + date and time information) in the stamping information management DB 32b based on the transmitted (received) stamping record information.

[0072] Furthermore, the memory unit 32 stores programs and data for realizing the functions of a web server. This makes it possible, for example, to display a website related to the stamp rally on the user terminal in response to a request from the user terminal, or to provide the user terminal with information and services related to the stamp rally. Examples of information and services related to the stamp rally provided to the user terminal include notifications when stamp 15 is stamped at each spot visited in the stamp rally, sending guidance about the stamped spots, and awarding rewards for completing the stamp rally.

[0073] The communication unit 33 communicates with external devices via a network and is composed of a communication interface that performs wireless communication such as Wi-Fi communication or Bluetooth communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11 standard. In this embodiment, communication is performed with the stamp rally station 2 (processing device 7) and user terminals (not shown) via the internet 50. That is, the server 30 is connected to the stamp rally station 2 (processing device 7) via the internet 50 so as to be able to communicate. The server 30 is also connected to the user terminals so as to be able to communicate via the internet 50.

[0074] [Stamp book] As shown in Figure 7, the stamp book 40 used as the object to be stamped in this stamp rally is a booklet-like object having a front cover 41 and a back cover (not shown). Those who wish to participate in this stamp rally can obtain the stamp book 40, for example, at a registration area set up at the facility where the stamp rally is held. Once a participant (user) of this stamp rally obtains the stamp book 40, they become the owner (user) of that stamp book 40.

[0075] When the cover 41 of the stamp book 40 is turned over from the closed state shown in Figure 7(a), the stamping page 42 appears on the right side of the spread, as shown in Figure 7(b). The stamping page 42 has a memo section 43 where notes can be written and a stamping section 44.

[0076] The memo section 43 is a space where you can freely write things like the location and date of stamping. The stamping section 44 is a space for stamping (leaving the impression of the stamp) the stamps to be collected in the stamp rally, and in this embodiment, there are four sections: the first stamping section 44a, the second stamping section 44b, the third stamping section 44c, and the fourth stamping section 44d. Each of the stamping sections 44a to 44d corresponds to the first to fourth stamp spots set as stamp spots in this stamp rally.

[0077] Note that the memo section 43 does not need to be included. Also, the number of pages for stamping pages 42 and the number of stamping sections 44 provided on stamping pages 42 can be changed as appropriate depending on the scale of the stamp rally and the number of stamp spots (number of spots).

[0078] As shown in Figure 7(b), an NFC tag 45 is attached to the inside cover 41b (left side of the spread) of the stamp book 40. The NFC tag 45 is a passive tag consisting of an IC chip 45a and an antenna 45b, and a known type can be used.

[0079] The IC chip 45a comprises a memory (not shown) for storing information (data) and a circuit (not shown) for reading and writing information. As mentioned above, in this system 1, one stamp book ID is assigned to each stamp book 40, and the system is configured to manage the stamping status of each stamp book 40. Corresponding to this, the stamp book ID assigned to the stamp book 40 is recorded (stored) on the IC chip 45a. This stamp book ID is information (a type of information on the NFC tag 45) that is read by the RFID reader 6 provided on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement section 4). That is, when a stamp book 40 is placed on the placement section 4 of the stamp rally stand 2, the stamp book ID recorded on the IC chip 45a of the NFC tag 45 provided on the stamp book 40 is read by the RFID reader 6.

[0080] As mentioned above, the antenna 45b has the function of communicating with the RFID reader 6 and supplying power to the IC chip 45a.

[0081] In this embodiment, the NFC tag 45 is attached to the inside of the front cover 41b of the stamp book 40, but the location of the NFC tag 45 is not limited to this, and it may be attached to the front side of the front cover 41, or to the inside or front side of the back cover. Also, the NFC tag 45 may be embedded in the stamp book 40 (front or back cover) rather than being attached to it.

[0082] In this embodiment, a booklet-shaped stamp book 40 is used, but a card-shaped stamp sheet may also be used. In this case, the NFC tag 45 should be attached (or embedded) in a position on the stamp sheet that does not interfere with stamping.

[0083] Next, the processes related to the stamp rally using this system 1, namely the stamp rally stand side processing (S100) executed by the control unit 9 of the stamp rally stand 2 (processing device 7) and the server side processing (S200) executed by the control unit 31 of the server 30, will be explained with reference to Figures 8 and 9. In this specification, "S" in S100, etc. ("S" in the flowchart) means step.

[0084] [Stamp rally table processing] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 9 of the stamp rally station 2 (processing device 7) first determines in the stamp rally station side processing (S100) whether the RFID reader 6 has read the stamp book ID, which is the information on the NFC tag 45 of the stamp book 40 (S101). As mentioned above, when the power to the stamp rally station 2 is on, the RFID reader 6 is on and its reader function is operating. In this state, if the NFC tag 45 of the stamp book 40 enters the communication range of the antenna part (not shown) of the RFID reader 6, the stamp book ID recorded on the IC chip 45a is read by the RFID reader 6. Since the RFID reader 6 is connected to the input unit 11 of the processing device 7 (see Figure 3), in S101, it is determined whether the stamp book ID has been read based on whether or not the stamp book ID read by the RFID reader 6 has been input.

[0085] If the control unit 9 determines that the RFID reader 6 has not read the stamp book ID (No in S101), it proceeds to process S107 without performing processes S103 and S105. On the other hand, if it determines that the stamp book ID has been read (Yes in S101), it retrieves the station ID stored in the storage unit 10 (S103) and transmits the stamping determination information to the server 30 (S105). The control unit 9 that executes process S103 functions as an acquisition unit that obtains the station ID (identification information). The control unit 9 that executes process S105 functions as a transmission unit that transmits the stamping determination information to the server 30 (external).

[0086] The stamping determination information is used by the server 30 to determine whether the stamp book 40 placed on the mounting section 4 of the stamp rally stand 2, that is, the stamp book 40 corresponding to the stamp book ID read by the RFID reader 6, has been stamped with the stamp 15 from the stamp rally stand 2. The stamping determination information includes the stamp book ID that was determined to have been read in the S101 process (the stamp book ID read by the RFID reader 6) and the stand ID obtained in the S103 process.

[0087] In the subsequent S107 process, the control unit 9 determines whether or not it has received a notification command as notification information (S107). The notification command is transmitted from the server 30 and is a control command that instructs the processing unit 7 (control unit 9) of the stamp rally station 2 to execute notification. In this embodiment, it is configured so that one of the first notification command, the second notification command, or the third notification command is transmitted.

[0088] The first notification command (also called "first notification information") is a command to notify the stamp book 40 corresponding to the stamp book ID included in the stamping determination information transmitted by the processing of S105 that the stamp 15 from the stamp rally stand 2 equipped with an RFID reader 6 that read the stamp book ID has not yet been stamped (not stamped).

[0089] The second notification command (also called "second notification information") is a command to notify the stamp book 40 corresponding to the stamp book ID transmitted by the processing in S103 that the stamp 15 from the stamp rally station 2 equipped with the RFID reader 6 that read the stamp book ID has been stamped.

[0090] The third notification command (also called "third notification information") is a command to notify that stamp 15 has been applied.

[0091] If the control unit 9 determines that it has not received any of the first, second, or third notification commands (No in S107), it proceeds to the process in S111 without performing the process in S109. On the other hand, if it determines that it has received any of the first, second, or third notification commands (Yes in S107), it outputs an announcement sound (notification sound) from the speaker 8 (see Figures 2 and 3) in a manner corresponding to the received notification command (S109), and then proceeds to the process in S111.

[0092] If the received notification command is the first notification command, processing in S109 outputs an announcement sound, such as "Please stamp here" (message sound). The announcement sound based on the first notification command is also called the "first announcement sound" or "first notification sound".

[0093] The output of the first announcement sound can be configured to occur at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 4 seconds) until, for example, the process in S111 determines that a stamping signal has been input. Furthermore, the output of the first announcement sound can be configured to terminate if a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) has elapsed without the process in S111 determining that a stamping signal has been input, or if the NFC tag 45 of the stamp book 40 placed on the stamp rally stand 2 moves out of the communication range of the antenna (not shown) of the RFID reader 6.

[0094] If the received notification command is a second notification command, processing in S107 will output an announcement sound, for example, "Stamped." The announcement sound based on the second notification command is also called the "second announcement sound" or "second notification sound."

[0095] The output of the second announcement sound can be configured to occur, for example, once or multiple times at predetermined time intervals (for example, three times at 2-second intervals). Furthermore, the output of the second announcement sound can be configured to terminate when the NFC tag 45 of the stamp book 40 placed on the stamp rally stand 2 moves out of the communication range of the RFID reader 6's antenna (not shown).

[0096] If the received notification command is a third notification command, processing 107 outputs, for example, a "ping-pong" chime sound indicating completion of stamping, as an announcement sound. The announcement sound based on the third notification command is also called the "third announcement sound" or "third notification sound." The output of the third announcement sound can be configured to occur only once, for example.

[0097] The audio data for these announcement sounds (notification sounds) is pre-stored in the storage unit 10. The control unit 9 reads out the audio data for the announcement sound corresponding to the received notification command and plays it back, thereby outputting the announcement sound from the speaker 8 (S109). The control unit 9, which executes the process in S109, functions as a notification unit that provides notifications based on notification commands (notification information).

[0098] In the subsequent S111 process, the control unit 9 determines whether or not a detection signal (stamping signal) from the load sensor 23 provided on the stamp 15 has been input (S111). If the result is that no stamping signal has been input (No in S111), the process ends without performing the processes in S113 and S115. On the other hand, if a stamping signal has been input (Yes in S111), the unit ID stored in the storage unit 10 is acquired (S113). The control unit 9 that executes the process in S113 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires the unit ID (identification information).

[0099] The load sensor 23 outputs a detection signal (stamping signal) when the stamping operation of the stamp 15 is performed. Therefore, if the stamping signal is input (Yes in S111), it means that the stamping operation of the stamp 15 has been performed. Thus, it can be determined that the stamp 15 has been stamped by the input of the stamping signal. The stand ID obtained in the processing of S113 in response to this is the stand ID of the stamp rally stand 2 on which the stamped stamp 15 was installed. This acquired stand ID makes it possible to identify which stamp rally stand 2 (stamp spot)'s stamp 15 was stamped.

[0100] In the subsequent S115 process, the control unit 9 transmits the stamping record information to the server 30 (S115), and completes this process. The control unit 9, which executes the S115 process, functions as a transmission unit that transmits the stamping record information to the server 30 (external).

[0101] The stamping record information is used to register information related to the current stamping (stamping information) on the server 30 side (in the stamping information management DB 32b). The stamping record information includes the stamp book ID that was determined to have been read in the S101 process, that is, the stamp book ID that the RFID reader 6 read during this stamping, and the device ID obtained in the S113 process. Note that if stamp 15 is stamped on a stamp book that does not have an NFC tag 45 (i.e., does not have a stamp book ID), the stamp book ID will not be read (No in S101), so the stamping record information will not include the stamp book ID, but will include the device ID.

[0102] [Server-side processing] As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 31 of the server 30 first determines whether or not it has received stamping judgment information in the server-side processing (S200) (S201). The stamping judgment information is transmitted from the stamp rally stand 2 by the processing in S105 described above.

[0103] If the control unit 31 determines in the S201 process that it has not received stamping determination information (No in S201), it proceeds to the S207 process without performing the S203 and S205 processes. On the other hand, if it determines that it has received stamping determination information (Yes in S201), it performs stamping determination based on the received stamping determination information (S203). As mentioned above, the stamping determination information includes the stamp book ID and the stamp stand ID. The control unit 31 that executes the S203 process functions as a determination unit that determines whether or not the stamp 15 has been stamped on the stamp book 40 (object to be stamped) to which the stamp book ID (unique information) is attached.

[0104] The stamping determination in S203 can be performed, for example, by referring to the stamping information management DB32b and comparing the information stored (registered) in the database (see Figure 6(b)) with the received stamping determination information. Specifically, since the stamping determination information includes the stamp book ID and the stamp stand ID, a search is performed to see if information containing the stamp book ID and stamp stand ID is stored (registered) in the stamping information management DB32b.

[0105] If the search results do not yield any matches for the target stamp book ID, it means that no stamps have been applied to stamp book 40 with that stamp book ID in this stamp rally. In this case, the stamping result will be "not stamped".

[0106] Furthermore, if the target stamp book ID is found, but no spot information corresponding to the target station ID is found in the stamping history associated with that stamp book ID, then stamp 15 of stamp rally station 2 (stamp spot) with that station ID has not been stamped, and in this case the stamping judgment result will be "not stamped".

[0107] Furthermore, if the target stamp book ID is found, and the stamping record corresponding to that stamp book ID contains spot information corresponding to the target station ID, then stamp 15 of stamp rally station 2 (stamp spot) with that station ID has already been stamped, and in this case the stamping judgment result will be "stamped".

[0108] After completing the stamping determination (S203), the control unit 31 sends (replies to) the stamp rally station 2, which transmitted the stamping determination information that forms the basis of the stamping determination, a notification command corresponding to the result of the stamping determination (S205). Here, if the result of the stamping determination is "not stamped", a first notification command is sent, and if the result of the stamping determination is "stamped", a second notification command is sent. The control unit 31 that executes the process in S205 functions as a transmission unit that sends a notification command (notification information) corresponding to the result of the stamping determination to the stamp rally station 2 (external).

[0109] In the subsequent S207 process, the control unit 31 determines whether or not it has received stamping record information (S207). The stamping record information is transmitted from the stamp rally stand 2 through the process described in S115.

[0110] If the control unit 31 determines in the S207 process that it has not received stamping record information (No in S207), it terminates this process without performing the S209 and S211 processes. On the other hand, if it determines that it has received stamping record information (Yes in S207), it registers the information related to the stamping that triggered the transmission of the stamping record information (S115) (stamping information) in the stamping information management DB 32b based on the received stamping record information (S209). The control unit 31 that executes the S209 process functions as a registration unit that registers information related to stamping (stamping information) in the stamping information management DB 32b.

[0111] As mentioned above, the information for recording the stamping may include the stamp book ID and the stamping stand ID (also referred to as "Case 1"), or it may not include the stamp book ID but include the stamping stand ID (also referred to as "Case 2"). Case 1 is when stamp 15 is stamped on a stamp book 40 that has a stamp book ID (NFC tag 45) attached. Case 2 is when stamp 15 is stamped on a stamp book that does not have a stamp book ID (NFC tag 45) attached, that is, when stamp 15 is stamped without the stamp book ID being read (No. in S101).

[0112] In the first case, if the received stamp book ID is already stored (registered) in the stamp information management DB32b, the control unit 31 registers (stores) stamp information including spot information corresponding to the received station ID, in association with the stored stamp book ID (unique information) (S209). Specifically, for example, in the table shown in Figure 6(b), the control unit 31 registers stamp information in order from the empty (data not registered) fields with the lowest numbers in each column of "Stamp Record 1 to 4" of the record (row) in which the received stamp book ID is registered.

[0113] Furthermore, in the first case, if the received stamp book ID is not stored (registered) in the stamping information management DB32b, the control unit 31 associates the received stamp book ID (unique information) with the stamping information including spot information corresponding to the received station ID and newly registers (stores) it in the stamping information management DB32b (S209). Specifically, for example, in the table shown in Figure 6(b), the received stamp book ID (unique information) is registered in the "stamp book ID" column of an empty record (row), and the stamping information is registered in the "stamping record 1" column of the same record (row). Also, if the received stamp book ID is already associated with a user ID in the user information management DB32a (see Figure 6(a)), that user ID is registered in the stamping information management DB32b (see Figure 6(b)) in association with the received stamp book ID.

[0114] On the other hand, in the second case, the control unit 31 registers (stores) only the stamping information, which includes spot information corresponding to the received station ID, in the stamping information management DB 32b (S209). Specifically, for example, in the table shown in Figure 6(b), the stamping information is registered in the "Stamping Record 1" column of an empty record (row). In this case, stamping of stamps 15 on stamp books that do not have a stamp book ID is also included in the management by the server 30 (stamping information management DB 32b). This makes it possible to manage the stamping status in more detail. In particular, once the stamping information is registered, the stamping status of stamps 15 at each stamp rally station 2 (each spot) (number of stamps, date and time of stamping, frequency of stamping, etc.) can be grasped from the stamping information (stamping record), and this information can be used, for example, for maintenance of stamps 15 or review of stamp spots.

[0115] After completing the registration of the stamp information in the stamp information management DB32b (S209), the control unit 31 sends a third notification command (reply) (S211) to the stamp rally station 2 that sent the stamp recording information that forms the basis of the registration, and completes this process. The control unit 31 that executes the process in S211 functions as a transmission unit that sends a notification command (notification information) to the stamp rally station 2 (external) in response to the completion of the registration of the stamp information (completion of stamping).

[0116] In a stamp rally using this system 1 configured as described above, the user places their own stamp book 40 open (see Figure 7(b)) on the mounting section 4 of the stamp rally stand 2, and stamps the stamp 15 installed on the stamp rally stand 2 in the stamping section 44 of the stamp book 40 (stamping page 42) that corresponds to the spot where the stamp rally stand 2 is installed (one of the first stamping section 44a to the fourth stamping section 44d).

[0117] In this series of stamping processes, when the stamp book ID (information from the NFC tag 45) attached to the stamp book 40 placed on the mounting section 4 of the stamp rally stand 2 is read by the RFID reader 6, stamping determination information including the read stamp book ID is sent to the server 30, and the server 30 performs a stamping determination (see S105 in Figure 8 and S203 in Figure 9). Then, notification based on the result of the stamping determination is made to the stamp rally stand 2 (see S205 in Figure 9 and S109 in Figure 8). As a result, the user can know whether the stamp 15 has already been stamped in their stamp book 40 without having to do anything special to the stamp 15 installed on the stamp rally stand 2. This makes it possible to avoid duplicate stamping without forcing the user to perform any unnecessary operations.

[0118] Furthermore, the stamping detection is performed on the server 30, and notification based on the result of that detection is provided on the stamp rally stand 2. Therefore, there is no need to provide a stamping detection function on the stamp 15 or the stamp rally stand 2. This simplifies the configuration of the stamp 15 and the stamp rally stand 2, and streamlines the system.

[0119] Furthermore, notification based on the stamping judgment result is performed based on a notification command sent from server 30 to stamp rally station 2. That is, a notification command (first notification command or second notification command) corresponding to the stamping judgment result is sent from server 30 to stamp rally station 2 (see S205 in Figure 9), and notification based on this notification command is performed by stamp rally station 2 (see S109 in Figure 8). This simplifies the notification function of stamp rally station 2 and makes the system more rational.

[0120] Then, in the above series of stamping operations, when the operation of stamping 15 onto the stamp book 40 with a stamp book ID attached, which is placed on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement unit 4), is detected, stamping record information including the stamp book ID attached to the stamp book 40 and the stand ID attached to the stamp rally stand 2 is transmitted (see S115 in Figure 8). The transmitted stamping record information is received by the server 30, and based on this stamping record information, information regarding the stamping of stamp 15 onto the stamp book 40 (stamping information) is registered (stored) in the stamping information management DB 32b in association with the stamp book ID (see Figure 6(b) and S209 in Figure 9). This ensures consistency between the actual stamping on the stamp book 40 and the stamping information managed by the server 30. This ensures the accuracy of the stamping information.

[0121] Furthermore, since the stamp book ID attached to the stamp book 40 is read by an RFID reader 6 provided on the mounting section 4 of the stamp rally stand 2 (on the stamp rally stand 2 side), the reading is stable. This allows for accurate reading of the stamp book ID.

[0122] In this system 1, an RFID reader 6 and a processing unit 7 are provided on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement unit 4). The stand ID is stored in the storage unit 10 of the processing unit 7, and the control unit 9 of the processing unit 7 functions as a transmission unit that transmits the stamp book ID and stand ID to an external source. The stamp rally stand 2 (processing unit 7) is also made connectable to the server 30 via the internet 50. Therefore, the functions of reading the stamp book ID, storing the stand ID, and transmitting the stamp book ID and stand ID to an external source are all integrated into the stamp rally stand 2, and the stamp rally stand 2 is made connectable to the server 30 via the internet 50. This makes it possible to streamline the system. It also makes it possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the stamps 15 and reduce the risk of failure.

[0123] In this system 1, stamp rally stations 2 and stamps 15 are installed at multiple stamp spots (multiple locations), and each stamp rally station 2 at each spot is configured to be connectable via the server 30 and the internet 50 (see Figure 1). This allows the server 30 to centrally manage information (stamping status) regarding the stamping of each spot's stamp 15 in the stamp book 40, and enables the provision of services using this information.

[0124] Furthermore, in this system 1, a user terminal (not shown) used by the user (owner of the stamp book 40) and a server 30 that manages information (stamping status) regarding the stamping of the stamp book 40 are configured to be connectable via the Internet 50. This makes it possible to provide a service that links the stamping of the stamp book 40 with the terminal (user terminal) of the owner of the stamp book 40.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the server 30 is configured to manage user information, i.e., information about the owner of the stamp book 40 (also referred to as "owner information"), in the user information management DB 32a in association with the stamp book ID (unique information) (see Figure 6(a)). In connection with this, information for identifying or specifying the user's attributes (attribute information) may be included in the user information (owner information), and this information may be configured to be reflected in the notification command.

[0126] Specifically, for example, as a type of user information managed in the user information management DB32a, personal information of the user, such as the user's gender, age, nationality, and residential area, is set as attribute information, and this attribute information is associated (linked) with the user ID and stamp book ID and managed in the user information management DB32a. Then, notification commands corresponding to various attributes (attribute information) are prepared in advance as notification commands that can be sent based on the result of the stamping judgment, and these notification commands are stored in the storage unit 32 of the server 30. Then, when the control unit 31 of the server 30 sends a notification command corresponding to the result of the stamping judgment to the stamp rally station 2 (see S205 in Figure 9), it identifies the attribute information corresponding to the stamp book ID from the user information management DB32a based on the stamp book ID included in the stamping judgment information that triggered the stamping judgment, and is configured to send a notification command corresponding to that attribute information to the stamp rally station 2. In this way, when a stamping determination is made on server 30 and a notification command corresponding to the result of the stamping determination is sent to stamp rally stand 2, the notification command will reflect the attribute information of the owner (user) of the stamp book 40 that was the subject of the stamping determination.

[0127] According to this, for example, if nationality is registered (stored) as attribute information, the system can be configured to output an announcement sound (notification sound) in the language of that nationality. Also, if the residential area is registered (stored) as attribute information, the system can be configured to output an announcement sound (notification sound) in the dialect of that residential area. This enriches the content of notifications based on the result of the stamping judgment (notification command), making the notifications more personalized.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the stamp book ID (unique information) is attached to the stamp book 40 by affixing an NFC tag 45 on which the stamp book ID (unique information) is recorded, and the stamp book ID is read by an RFID reader 6 (reader) provided on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement unit 4). In contrast, for example, the stamp book ID (unique information) may be attached to the stamp book 40 by providing a barcode or two-dimensional code (collectively referred to simply as "code") containing the information of the stamp book ID, and the code (code information) may be read by a code reader (reader) provided on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement unit 4). In this case, for example, the code (stamp book ID) can be attached to the stamp book 40 by printing the code on the front or back cover of the stamp book 40 or by attaching a sticker with the code printed on it. Furthermore, by providing a code reader on the stamp rally stand 2 at a position where it can read the code attached to the stamp book 40 when the stamp book 40 is placed on the placement section 4, the stamp book ID (unique information) attached to the stamp book 40 placed on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement section 4) can be read contactlessly, as described in the above embodiment. In addition, it is also possible to configure the stamp rally stand 2 to read the unique information attached to the stamp book 40 contactlessly using, for example, Bluetooth (BLE) beacon or infrared communication technology. These methods can also achieve the same effects as the stamping system 1 according to the above embodiment.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the station ID as identification information was stored in the storage unit 10 of the processing device 7 (stamp rally station 2). In contrast, the stamp 15 may be provided with a storage unit (also called the "stamp-side storage unit"), and the stamp ID as identification information attached to the stamp 15 may be stored in the stamp-side storage unit. Alternatively, the station ID may be stored in the stamp-side storage unit, or both the stamp ID and the station ID may be stored. When the stamp 15 is configured to store identification information in its storage unit (stamp-side storage unit), the stamp 15 may be provided with a function to transmit the identification information stored in the stamp-side storage unit to the stamp rally station 2, which is provided in conjunction with the stamp 15, when the load sensor 23 (detection unit) of the stamp 15 detects the stamping operation. The transmission function (transmission unit) provided in the stamp 15 can be implemented by hardware or software. This also provides the same effects as the stamping system 1 according to the above embodiment.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the server 30 (control unit 31) performed a stamping determination to determine whether the stamp book 40 placed on the stamp rally stand 2 (placement unit 4) had been stamped with the stamp 15 installed on the stamp rally stand 2. However, the stamping determination may be performed by the processing unit 7 (control unit 9) of the stamp rally stand 2. In other words, the stamp rally stand 2 may be configured to include a determination unit. This would reduce the processing load on the server 30 (control unit 31) and suppress processing delays caused by concentrated access to the server 30.

[0131] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, notifications based on the stamping judgment result and notifications of stamping completion were made by outputting an announcement sound (notification sound) from the speaker 8. In contrast, notifications based on the stamping judgment result do not have to be sound (appealing to hearing), but may be, for example, by display or light (appealing to sight). Specifically, for example, a notification display such as an LCD panel may be provided on the stamp rally stand 2, and a notification image based on the stamping judgment result may be displayed on the display. Alternatively, a notification lamp may be provided on the stamp rally stand 2, and the lamp may be made to emit light in a manner corresponding to the stamping judgment result. In addition, two or more of sound, display, and light may be combined. Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which notifications based on the stamping judgment result and notifications of stamping completion are sent to the user terminal, the stamp 15 itself is vibrated, or images are projected onto the stamp book 40 using projection mapping. These can also achieve the same effects as the stamping system 1 according to the above embodiment.

[0132] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates the application of the stamping system of the present invention to a stamp rally, the stamping system of the present invention can be applied to fields other than stamp rallies. For example, it can be applied to various fields where stamping is used, such as stamping attendance cards (objects to be stamped) on teacher's desks installed in each classroom of an educational facility, stamping examination cards (objects to be stamped) on tables (desks) installed in each examination booth of a health checkup, or stamping work instructions and process control sheets (objects to be stamped) on workbenches installed in each process of a factory where products are assembled, stamping process completion stamps on workbenches. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0133] 1 Stamping system, 2 Stamp rally stand (stand), 3 Housing, 4 Mounting unit, 5 Display panel, 6 RFID reader (reading unit), 7 Processing unit, 8 Speaker (notification unit), 9 Control unit (transmitter, notification unit, acquisition unit), 10 Storage unit, 11 Input unit, 12 Output unit, 13 Communication unit, 15 Stamp, 16 Stamp body, 17 Outer frame, 18 Grip, 19 Printing body, 19a Stamp surface, 20 Ink absorbent, 21 Ink replenishment path, 22 Spring, 23 Load sensor (detection unit), 24 Signal processing board, 25 Cable, 30 Server (external device), 31 Control unit (judgment unit, transmission unit, registration unit), 32 Storage unit, 32a User information management DB, 32b Stamping information management DB, 33 Communication unit, 40 Stamp book (object to be stamped), 41 Cover, 41b Inside front cover, 42 Stamp page, 43 Memo section, 44 Stamp section, 44a First stamp section, 44b Second stamp section, 44c Third stamp section, 44d Fourth stamp section, 45 NFC tag, 45a IC chip, 45b Antenna, 50 Internet (network).

Claims

1. A stamp having a detection unit capable of detecting when a stamp has been applied, A stand having a mounting section on which an object to be stamped is placed, and a reading section capable of reading unique information attached to the object to be stamped placed on the mounting section without contact, A storage unit that stores identification information attached to at least one of the stamp and the base, A transmission unit transmits the unique information read by the reading unit and the identification information to an external source when the detection unit detects that a stamp has been applied to the object to be stamped. The system includes an external device that receives the unique information and identification information transmitted by the transmitting unit, registers stamping information as information relating to stamping the object to be stamped, including information that can identify the location where the stamped stamp is placed, and manages the status of stamping the object to be stamped. A stamping system characterized by the following features.

2. The external device is connectable via a network to a terminal used by the owner of the object to be stamped, It is possible to check the status of stamping on the object to be stamped using the SNS (Social Networking Service) app installed on the aforementioned terminal. The stamping system according to claim 1.

Images