Point management device and program

Abstract

To enable introducing a point service in multiple commercial facilities.SOLUTION: A point management device comprises acquisition means, update means, and supply means. The acquisition means acquires a point imparted to a point holder from a terminal of a first shop that can supply a privilege depending on a holding point of the point holder, and a terminal of a second shop that cannot supply the privilege. The update means updates the holding point of the point holder using the point acquired by the acquisition means. The supply means supplies the privilege to the point holder whose holding point satisfies a supply condition of the privilege in the first shop. The supply means does not supply the privilege in the second shop.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a point management apparatus and a program for causing a computer to function as a point management apparatus. [[Background Art]]

[0002] A complex commercial facility called a shopping center, a shopping mall, or the like may introduce a point service for a plurality of stores that open outlets therein. When the point service is introduced, a customer who becomes a point member can acquire points each time they purchase a product not only at a directly managed store operated by the parent company of the facility but also at a tenant store operated by another company. The acquired points are accumulated for each customer, and when the accumulated points reach a predetermined number, the points can be exchanged for complimentary tickets such as discount coupons that can be used at stores in the facility, for example.

[0003] In such an operation, it is preferable to issue complimentary tickets using a receipt printer provided in a cashier of each store. However, the cashiers of each store are not necessarily manufactured by the same manufacturer. For this reason, for example, there may be a case where the cashier of a directly managed store supports issuance of complimentary tickets, but the cashier of a tenant store does not support issuance of complimentary tickets. Development of a point management apparatus that can easily introduce a point service even in such a complex commercial facility is desired. [[Prior Art Document]] [[Patent Document]]

[0004] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-056013 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0005] A problem to be solved by embodiments of the present invention is to provide a point management apparatus that enables introduction of a point service in a complex commercial facility. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the point management device comprises an acquisition means, an update means, and a provision means. The acquisition means acquires points awarded to point holders from a terminal at a first store that can provide benefits according to the points held by the point holder, and from a terminal at a second store that cannot provide benefits. The update means updates the points held by the point holder with the points acquired by the acquisition means. The provision means provides benefits at the first store to point holders whose points satisfy the conditions for providing benefits. No benefits are provided at the second store. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a point management system to be built in a multi-purpose commercial facility for introducing a point service. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the basic circuit configuration of the accounting machine. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the point management server. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main data items of member records stored in the member database. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the main data items of bonus records stored in the bonus database. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the store table. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the point management server's processor. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a discount coupon. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the second information processing performed by the point management server's processor. [Figure 10]Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the point management server's processor in the second embodiment, with some parts omitted. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an inquiry screen. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes an embodiment of a point management device that enables the introduction of a point service in a multi-purpose commercial facility, using drawings as illustrations. This embodiment describes the introduction of a point service in a mixed-use commercial facility that includes directly managed stores operated by the parent company of the facility and tenant stores operated by other companies. Specifically, customers who become point members can earn points every time they purchase goods not only at directly managed stores but also at tenant stores. The points earned are accumulated for each customer, and when a certain number of points are reached, they can be exchanged for discount coupons, vouchers, or other preferential treatment coupons that can be used at stores within the facility as a reward. However, these preferential treatment coupons are issued from the cash registers of the directly managed stores. The cash registers of the tenant stores do not have the function to issue preferential treatment coupons. This embodiment illustrates the introduction of such a point service in a mixed-use commercial facility. Hereafter, customers who become point members will be referred to as members.

[0009] <First Embodiment> First, the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 9. [Outline of the point management system] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a point management system 100 to be constructed in a shopping center (SC) for introducing a point service. The point management system 100 includes a point management server 20 and a communication network 30. The point management server 20 is connected to the communication network 30, as are multiple accounting machines 10 (10-1, 10-2, 10-3, 10-4, ...). The communication network 30 is a wide-area network that enables data communication between the accounting machines 10 and the point management server 20. For example, computer networks such as the internet and intranets can be used as the communication network 30. A mobile communication network may also be used as part of the communication network 30.

[0010] Each accounting machine 10 is installed in a store TE (TEa, TEb, TEc, TEd, ...) located within a shopping complex (SC). Stores TE include directly managed stores (first store) operated by the parent company of the shopping complex (SC) and tenant stores (second store) operated by other companies. The type of business of each store TE is not particularly limited. It may be a retail store selling goods, or a restaurant serving food and beverages. It may also be a store providing services, such as a movie theater or a gym. The number of accounting machines 10 installed in each store TE is not particularly limited. There may be only one accounting machine 10 in a single store TE, or there may be two or more accounting machines 10. Each accounting machine 10 is a so-called POS (Point of Sales) terminal. The POS terminal may be a face-to-face POS terminal operated by a store employee, or a self-service POS terminal operated by a customer.

[0011] The point management server 20 is a server computer specifically designed for the operation and management of point services introduced in a complex commercial facility SE. The point management server 20 is one embodiment of a point management device according to one embodiment. The point management server 20 is installed, for example, in the data center of a complex processing facility SC. The point management server 20 may also be installed on a cloud service provided via the internet.

[0012] [Description of the Configuration of an Accounting Apparatus] The accounting apparatuses 10 installed in each store TE are not necessarily of the same model. In some cases, accounting apparatuses 10 from different manufacturers are installed, and in other cases, accounting apparatuses 10 of different models even from the same manufacturer are installed. However, the basic circuit configuration of the accounting apparatuses 10 is common. Therefore, the basic circuit configuration of the accounting apparatus 10 will be described with reference to Figure 2.

[0013] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the basic circuit configuration of the accounting apparatus 10. The accounting apparatus 10 includes a processor 41, a main memory 42, an auxiliary storage device 43, a clock 44, a communication interface 45, a keyboard 46, a display 47, a printer 48, a card reader 49, a scanner interface 50, a change dispenser interface 51, a system transmission path 52, and the like. The system transmission path 52 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 52 connects the processor 41 to other respective units and transmits data signals exchanged between the units.

[0014] The accounting apparatus 10 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 41, the main memory 42, the auxiliary storage device 43, the clock 44, and the communication interface 45 via the system transmission path 52. Then, input / output devices such as the keyboard 46, the display 47, the printer 48, and the card reader 49, and device interfaces such as the scanner interface 50 and the change dispenser interface 51 are connected to the system transmission path 52, and are controlled by the computer, thereby realizing the function as the accounting apparatus 10. Note that the input / output devices or device interfaces connected to the system transmission path 52 are not limited to those described above. For example, other input / output devices such as a touch panel and a customer-facing display may be connected, or a device interface for a cashless payment terminal may be connected.

[0015] The processor 41 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 41 controls each unit to implement various functions as the accounting machine 10 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 41 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0016] The main memory 42 corresponds to the main memory section of the computer. The main memory 42 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 42 stores an operating system or an application program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 42 may store data necessary for the processor 41 to execute processing for controlling each unit in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 42 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 41. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0017] The auxiliary storage device 43 corresponds to the auxiliary storage section of the computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive) or the like can serve as the auxiliary storage device 43. The auxiliary storage device 43 stores data used when the processor 41 performs various types of processing, data generated through processing by the processor 41, and the like. The auxiliary storage device 43 may also store the above application programs.

[0018] The clock 44 counts the date and time. The processor 41 processes the date and time counted by the clock 44 as the current date and time.

[0019] The communication interface 45 is an interface for data communication with the point management server 20 and other devices connected to the communication network 30.

[0020] The keyboard 46 is an input device with various keys arranged for, for example, registering purchased items and settling transactions. The display 47 is an output device for displaying, for example, the name, price, and total amount of registered purchased items. The printer 48 is an output device for printing data onto receipt paper to issue purchase receipts, etc. The card reader 49 is an input device for reading card data such as point cards and credit cards.

[0021] The scanner interface 50 is an interface for data communication with the scanner 53. The scanner 53 is a device that scans and reads codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The scanner 53 may be a stationary scanner or a handheld scanner.

[0022] The change dispenser interface 51 is an interface for data communication with the automatic change dispenser 54. The automatic change dispenser 54 has the function of counting the banknotes or coins inserted from the input slot and storing them in the safe by denomination, and the function of drawing cash equivalent to the change from the safe and dispensing it to the dispensing slot. A cash drawer may be connected instead of the automatic change dispenser.

[0023] Of the accounting machines 10 having such a basic circuit configuration, the accounting machine 10 installed in a directly managed store has a processor 41 that functions as an assignment means 411, a ticket issuing means 412, a reading means 413, and a processing means 414. On the other hand, the accounting machine 10 installed in a tenant store has a processor 41 that functions as an assignment means 411, a reading means 413, and a processing means 414, but does not have the function of a ticket issuing means 412. Therefore, below, the accounting machine 10 installed in the first store, which is a directly managed store, will be referred to as the first accounting machine 101, and the accounting machine 10 installed in the second store, which is a tenant store, will be referred to as the second accounting machine 102. Here, the first accounting machine 101 corresponds to the terminal of the first store, and the second accounting machine 102 corresponds to the terminal of the second store.

[0024] The point awarding means 411 is a function that awards points to a member in accordance with the settlement of a transaction with the member. When the point awarding means 411 reads the data on the point card with, for example, the card reader 49, it obtains the member ID identified by that data as the member's identification information. The point awarding means 411 then derives the points to be awarded when the transaction with the member is settled by operation input from the scanner 53, keyboard 46, or display 47. The points to be awarded are a variable value calculated based on the transaction amount. The points to be awarded may also be a fixed value awarded each time a transaction is settled. When the points to be awarded are derived, the point awarding means 411 notifies the point management server 20 of the awarding event. The awarding event includes the points to be awarded and the member ID, as well as the store ID, accounting machine ID, transaction number, etc. The store ID is unique identification information assigned to each store TE of directly managed stores or tenant stores located in a complex commercial facility SC. The accounting machine ID is unique identification information assigned to each accounting machine 10 installed in each store TE. The transaction number is a series of numbers issued each time a transaction is settled at accounting machine 10.

[0025] The ticketing means 412 is a function that issues discount vouchers, which are benefits, to members whose points balance meets the conditions for receiving benefits. The conditions for receiving benefits will be described later. The ticketing means 412 issues discount vouchers, coupons, and other benefits that can be used at each store TE within the shopping complex SC. The discount vouchers are printed on receipt paper by the printer 48 and issued.

[0026] The reading means 413 is a function that reads the identification information of the discount coupon issued as a benefit. As will be described in detail later, the discount coupon issued by the issuing means 412 has a benefit code set as its unique identification information, and a barcode indicating that benefit code is printed on it. The reading means 413 reads the barcode of the benefit code via the scanner 53 and outputs the barcode data to the point management server 20.

[0027] The processing means 414 is a function that performs preferential treatment based on the preferential treatment voucher identified by the identification information read by the reading means 413, i.e., the preferential treatment voucher identified by the preferential treatment voucher code. For example, if the preferential treatment voucher is a discount voucher, the processing means 414 deducts the discount amount of the member who presented the discount voucher by the discount amount of the discount voucher. For example, if the preferential treatment voucher is a coupon voucher, the processing means 414 changes the price of the product to which the coupon voucher applies to the coupon price and recalculates the subtotal amount. Such processing related to discount vouchers, discount vouchers, or coupon vouchers is an example of preferential treatment processing.

[0028] [Explanation of the Point Management Server Configuration] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the point management server 20. The point management server 20 includes a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication interface 65, and system transmission path 66, etc. The system transmission path 66 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 66 connects the processor 61 to the other parts and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0029] The point management server 20 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 43, clock 64, and communication interface 65 via a system transmission path 66.

[0030] The processor 61 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 61 controls various parts to realize various functions as a point management server 20 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU. Preferably, the processor 61 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0031] Main memory 62 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 62 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 62 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 62 may also store data necessary for the processor 61 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 61. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0032] The auxiliary storage device 63 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 63. The auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by the processor 61 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 61, etc. The auxiliary storage device 63 may also store the application program described above.

[0033] Clock 64 keeps track of the date and time. Processor 61 processes the date and time kept by clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0034] The communication interface 65 is an interface for data communication with multiple accounting machines 10 connected to the communication network 30.

[0035] In this configuration, the point management server 20 uses a portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 63 for the member database 71, the benefits database 72, and the store table 73.

[0036] The member database 71 is a collection of member records 711 (see Figure 4) generated for each member. Figure 4 shows the main data items that make up a member record 711. As shown in the figure, a member record 711 includes the member ID and the points P held.

[0037] When a member becomes a member of the point service implemented at the multi-purpose commercial facility SE, they are assigned a unique member ID. Then, a member record 711 containing that member ID is generated and registered in the member database 71.

[0038] Incidentally, members are issued a point card with their member ID recorded on it. The point card may be, for example, a magnetic card. The point card may also be a contact-type or contactless IC card. Members can also set their member ID in the point app by installing application software compatible with the point service, so-called point app, on their smartphone and registering as a member. In this case, when the point app is launched, a barcode or QR code indicating the member ID will be displayed on the smartphone's screen. Members can receive points by presenting their point card or smartphone displaying the barcode or QR code indicating their member ID when settling transactions at the SE commercial complex's directly managed stores or tenant stores.

[0039] The reward database 72 is a collection of reward records 721 (see Figure 5) generated for each reward voucher. Figure 5 shows the main data items that make up the reward record 721. As shown in the figure, the reward record 721 includes the reward code, issuance date, status S, etc. The reward code is a unique code set for each voucher to avoid duplication. In other words, the reward code functions as identification information for the reward. The issuance date is the date the voucher was issued. Vouchers have an expiration date. The issuance date is used to calculate the expiration date. Status S is information indicating the usage status of the voucher. There are two usage statuses for vouchers: unused and used. In other words, the state before the voucher is used for a discount or reduction in the transaction amount is unused, and the state after it has been used is used. In this embodiment, status S representing the unused state is set to "0", and status S representing the used state is set to "1".

[0040] As shown in Figure 6, the store table 73 is a data table having a store ID column 731, a cashier ID column 732, and a type flag column 733. Column 731 contains a unique store ID assigned to each store TE. Column 732 contains the cashier ID of the cashier 10 installed in the store TE identified by the store ID described in column 731. Column 733 contains the type flag F. The type flag F is a 1-bit data that identifies whether the cashier 10 identified by the cashier ID described in column 732 is a first cashier 101 with a ticket issuing means 412 or a second cashier 102 without a ticket issuing means 412. In this embodiment, the type flag F that identifies the first cashier 101 is set to "1", and the type flag F that identifies the second cashier 102 is set to "0". Therefore, the type flag F associated with the accounting machine ID of the first accounting machine 101 installed in the first store, which is a directly managed store, will be "1". The type flag F associated with the accounting machine ID of the second accounting machine 102 installed in the second store, which is a tenant store, will be "0".

[0041] Let's return to the explanation of Figure 2. The processor 61 has the functions of acquisition means 611, update means 612, provision means 613, generation means 614, storage means 615, detection means 616, modification means 617, and control means 618 in order to enable the introduction of a point service at a complex commercial facility SE. However, the functions of the processor 61 are not limited to these.

[0042] The acquisition means 611 is a function that acquires points awarded to members who are point holders from the terminal of the first store, i.e., the first accounting machine 101, and the terminal of the second store, i.e., the second accounting machine 102. As mentioned above, the first accounting machine 101 and the second accounting machine 102 have awarding means 411 that notify the point management server 20 of awarding events. The acquisition means 611 acquires the member ID and awarded points from the awarding event notified from the first accounting machine 101 or the second accounting machine 102.

[0043] The update means 612 is a function that updates the points held by a member using the points acquired by the acquisition means 611. As mentioned above, the point management server 20 has a member database 71. The update means 612 adds the points awarded acquired by the acquisition means 611 to the points P held by the member record 711, which includes the member ID acquired by the acquisition means 611.

[0044] The provisioning means 613 is a function that provides benefits to members who are point holders whose points P satisfy the conditions for providing benefits at the first store, which is a directly managed store. As mentioned above, the first accounting machine 101 installed at the first store has a ticketing means 412. The provisioning means 613 works in cooperation with this ticketing means 412 to issue discount coupons to members whose points P satisfy the conditions for providing benefits.

[0045] The conditions for granting the benefits are not particularly limited. In this embodiment, the conditions for granting the benefits are set as "issuing a 500 yen discount coupon for every 500 points P held." That is, the granting means 613 issues one 500 yen discount coupon to a member whose points P have reached 500 points. For example, for a member whose points P have reached 1000 points, the granting means 613 issues two 500 yen discount coupons.

[0046] The generation means 614 has the function of generating identification information for each benefit provided by the provision means 613. As mentioned above, each benefit, which is a discount coupon, is assigned a unique benefit code as identification information. The generation means 614 generates the benefit code, which is the identification information for the discount coupon, each time the provision means 613 issues a discount coupon in cooperation with the ticketing means 412.

[0047] The storage means 615 has the function of storing the usage status of the benefit identified by the identification information, in association with the identification information generated by the generation means 614. As mentioned above, the point management server 20 has a benefit database 72. Each time a benefit code is generated by the generation means 614, the storage means 615 stores a benefit record 721 in the benefit database 72, which includes the benefit code, the date measured by the clock 64, i.e., the date of provision, and a status S indicating that it is unused.

[0048] The detection means 616 has the function of detecting a reward code, which is identification information for a reward used at the first or second store, based on data received from the terminal of the first store, i.e., the first checkout machine 101, or the terminal of the second store, i.e., the second checkout machine 102. As mentioned above, the first checkout machine 101 and the second checkout machine 102 have a reading means 413. The detection means 616 detects the reward code from the barcode data output to the point management server 20 via the communication network 30 by the action of the reading means 413.

[0049] The modification means 617 is a function that changes the usage status of the benefit detected by the detection means 616 from unused to used. Specifically, the modification means 617 changes the status S of the benefit record 721, which includes the benefit code detected by the detection means 616, from "0" indicating unused to "1" indicating used.

[0050] The control means 618 has the function of allowing the use of a benefit if the usage status of the benefit detected by the detection means 616 is unused, and prohibiting the use of the benefit if it has been used. Specifically, if the status S of the benefit record 721 containing the benefit code detected by the detection means 616 is "0" indicating unused, the control means 618 outputs a signal to the accounting machine 10 that read the benefit code that allows the benefit processing of the benefit voucher identified by that benefit code. If the status S of the benefit record 721 containing the benefit code detected by the detection means 616 is "1" indicating used, the control means 618 outputs a signal to the accounting machine 10 that read the benefit code that does not allow the benefit processing of the benefit voucher identified by that benefit code. Alternatively, the control means 618 does not output a signal that allows the benefit processing. Incidentally, when the accounting machine 10 receives a signal that allows the benefit processing of the benefit voucher, it executes the benefit processing by the processing means 414.

[0051] The functions of the acquisition means 611, update means 612, provision means 613, generation means 614, and storage means 615 described above are realized by a first information processing performed by the processor 61 in accordance with a first program. Furthermore, the functions of the detection means 616, modification means 617, and control means 618 are realized by a second information processing performed by the processor 61 in accordance with a second program.

[0052] The first program and the second program are types of application programs stored in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The method of installing the first program and the second program in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 is not particularly limited. The first program and the second program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or they can be distributed via communication over the communication network 30 and installed in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The recording medium can be of any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card. The first program and the second program may be separate programs or they may be an integrated program.

[0053] [Explanation of the first information processing step] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the first information processing performed by the processor 61 of the point management server 20. Note that the content and procedure of the information processing described below are just an example. The content and procedure can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved.

[0054] Processor 61 is waiting for an award event as ACT1. As mentioned above, when the function of the award means 411 is activated in the first accounting machine 101 or the second accounting machine 102, an award event including the awarded points, member ID, store ID, accounting machine ID, transaction number, etc. is output to the point management server 20. When processor 61 receives the award event via the communication interface 45, it proceeds from ACT1 to ACT2. Processor 61 obtains the awarded points Po from the award event as ACT2. Processor 61 also obtains the member ID from the award event as ACT3.

[0055] Processor 61, having obtained the awarded points Po and member ID, proceeds to ACT4. Processor 61 searches the member database 71 as ACT4 and retrieves the points P held from member record 711 containing the obtained member ID. Processor 61 then adds the obtained awarded points Po to the points P held and updates the points P held.

[0056] The processor 61, having updated the points P held, proceeds to ACT6. In ACT6, the processor 61 checks whether the points P held have reached or exceeded the grant condition points Pm. The grant condition points Pm are the points required to satisfy the grant conditions for the reward. In this embodiment, where the grant condition for the reward is "issue a 500 yen discount coupon for every 500 points held P", the grant condition points Pm will be 500 points.

[0057] If the points P held are less than the granting condition points Pm, processor 61 proceeds to ACT16. The processing from ACT16 onward will be described later.

[0058] When the points P held reach the grant condition points Pm, processor 61 proceeds to ACT7. In ACT7, processor 61 obtains the store ID and accounting machine ID from the grant event. Then, in ACT8, processor 61 searches the store table 73 to check whether the type flag F corresponding to the store ID and accounting machine ID is "1". If the type flag F is "0", that is, if the accounting machine 10 identified by the store ID and accounting machine ID is the second accounting machine 102, processor 61 proceeds to ACT16. The processing from ACT16 onwards will be described later.

[0059] In contrast, if the type flag F is "1", meaning that the accounting machine 10 identified by the store ID and accounting machine ID is the first accounting machine 101, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT9. As ACT9, the processor 61 calculates the number of discount coupons N to be issued. In this embodiment, where the condition for granting the benefit is "issue a 500 yen discount coupon every time the points held P reach 500 points", the number of coupons N is the integer of the quotient obtained by dividing the points held P by the grant condition points Pm.

[0060] The processor 61, having calculated the number of tickets to be issued N, proceeds to ACT10. As ACT10, the processor 61 generates a number of reward codes corresponding to the number of tickets to be issued N. For example, it generates a number of reward codes corresponding to the number of tickets to be issued N by combining the date and time measured by the clock 64, the store ID, the payment machine ID, and the transaction number included in the reward event, and a sequential number from "1" up to the number of tickets to be issued N. The generated reward codes are unique because their sequential numbers are different. If we assume that the date and time are 6 digits in total (2 digits for the year, 2 digits for the month, and 2 digits for the day), the store ID and payment machine ID are 3 digits each, and the transaction number and sequential number are 4 digits each, then the reward code will consist of a 20-digit number sequence.

[0061] Processor 61, which generated the bonus code, proceeds to ACT11. Processor 61 resets the ticketing counter n to "0" as ACT11. Next, as ACT12, Processor 61 increments the ticketing counter n by "1". Then, as ACT13, Processor 61 checks whether the ticketing counter n has exceeded the number of tickets issued N.

[0062] Initially, since the number of tickets issued N is "1" or greater, the ticketing counter n does not exceed the number of tickets issued N. Processor 61 proceeds to ACT14. Processor 61 outputs a ticketing event to the accounting machine 10, the source of the grant event notification, as ACT14. The ticketing event is an event that commands the issuance of a discount coupon. The ticketing event includes a benefit code that includes the value of the ticketing counter n as a sequential number. That is, when the ticketing counter n is "1", it includes a benefit code with a four-digit sequential number of "0001". Processor 61 outputs the ticketing event from the communication interface 65, using the store ID and accounting machine ID included in the grant event as the destinations.

[0063] The processor 61, which output the ticketing event, proceeds to ACT15. The processor 61 saves the reward record 721, which includes the reward code, grant date, and status S included in the ticketing event, to the reward database 72 as ACT15. Status S is a value that represents the unused state, i.e., "0".

[0064] The processor 61, having saved the reward record 721, returns to ACT12. The processor 61 then executes the processing from ACT12 onward in the same manner as described above. Therefore, if the number of tickets issued N is "2" or greater, the processor 61 repeats the processing of ACT14 and ACT15 N times. As a result, the accounting machine 10 that notified the granting event receives a number of ticketing events equal to the number of tickets issued N. In addition, the reward record 721, which includes the reward code, granting date, and status S included in the ticketing event, is sequentially saved in the reward database 72.

[0065] In ACT13, when the ticketing counter n exceeds the number of tickets issued N, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT17. The processing from ACT17 onward will be described later.

[0066] As mentioned above, if the points P held in ACT6 are less than the required points Pm, or if the type flag F is "0" in ACT8, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT16. The processor 61 sets the number of tickets issued N to "0" as ACT16. Then the processor 61 proceeds to ACT17.

[0067] Thus, if the number of tickets issued N is set to "0" in ACT16, or if the ticket counter n exceeds the number of tickets issued N in ACT13, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT17. In ACT17, the processor 61 calculates the points held P using the following equation (1). P = P - Pm*N …(1) In other words, the processor 61 subtracts points obtained by multiplying the granting condition points Pm by the number of tickets issued N from the points P held. With this, the processor 61 completes the first information processing.

[0068] Here, the processor 61 realizes the function of an acquisition means 611 through the processing of ACT1 and ACT2. The processor 61 realizes the function of an update means 612 through the processing of ACT3 to ACT5. The processor 61 realizes the function of a generation means 614 through the processing of ACT10. The processor 61 realizes the function of a providing means 613 through the processing of ACT14. The processor 61 realizes the function of a storage means 615 through the processing of ACT15.

[0069] In this way, the point management server 20, upon receiving the grant event from the accounting machine 10, performs the first information processing. As a result, the points P held by the member identified by the member ID included in the grant event are updated by adding the grant points Po included in the same grant event. When the updated points P reach the grant condition points Pm, the processing procedure differs depending on whether the accounting machine 10 that sent the grant event is the first accounting machine 101 installed in the first directly managed store or the second accounting machine 102 installed in the second tenant store.

[0070] If the accounting machine 10 that sent the granting event is the first accounting machine 101, the number of tickets issued N is calculated. Then, the number of ticket issuance events equal to the number of tickets issued N is output to the first accounting machine 101. In addition, a reward record 721 is saved in the reward database 72 for each reward code included in the ticket issuance event. Furthermore, the points held P are reduced by the number of tickets issued N multiplied by the granting condition points Pm.

[0071] On the other hand, if the accounting machine 10 that sent the granting event is the second accounting machine 102, the ticketing event will not be output. Also, the points P held will not be deducted.

[0072] Incidentally, in the first accounting machine 101, the function of the ticketing means 412 is activated each time a ticketing event is received. As a result, a number of discount coupons with different benefit codes are issued, corresponding to the number of ticketing events.

[0073] Figure 8 shows an example of a discount coupon when the reward conditions are set to "issue a 500 yen discount coupon every time the accumulated points P reach 500 points." The discount coupon is a 500 yen discount coupon 80. In addition to the store name and logo, just like a regular purchase receipt, the discount coupon 80 has the transaction date and time 81, terminal ID 82, and transaction number 83 printed on it. The member ID 84 and the expiration date of the discount coupon 85 are also printed on the discount coupon 80. Furthermore, a barcode BC is printed on the discount coupon 80. The barcode BC is a barcode version of the reward code included in the coupon issuance event.

[0074] Members who obtain such a discount coupon 80 can receive a 500 yen discount by presenting the coupon 80 at the time of payment at a directly managed store or tenant store within the shopping complex. Specifically, when the barcode BC of the discount coupon 80 is scanned by the scanner 53 after the subtotal is calculated at the first checkout machine 101 of the directly managed store or the second checkout machine 102 of the tenant store, the reading means 413 activates and transmits a reward event from the first checkout machine 101 or the second checkout machine 102 of the tenant store to the point management server 20. The reward event includes the data of the barcode BC, i.e., the reward code.

[0075] [Explanation of Information Processing 2] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the essential steps of the second information processing performed by the processor 61 of the point management server 20. Note that the content and procedure of the information processing described below are just an example. The content and procedure can be modified as appropriate if similar effects can be achieved.

[0076] Processor 61 is waiting for a reward event as ACT21. When processor 61 receives a reward event via the communication interface 45, it proceeds from ACT21 to ACT22. Processor 61 retrieves the reward code from the reward event as ACT22.

[0077] Processor 61, having obtained the reward code, proceeds to ACT23. Processor 61 searches the reward database 72 as ACT23. Then, Processor 61 checks the status S of the reward record 721 containing the obtained reward code. If status S is "0", which means unused, Processor 61 proceeds to ACT24. Processor 61 obtains the grant date from the same reward record 721 as ACT24. Then, Processor 61 checks whether the current date, measured by the clock 64, is within the validity period as ACT25. For example, if the validity period of the discount coupon is one year, Processor 61 checks whether the current date is within one year from the grant date. If the current date is within one year from the grant date, Processor 61 determines that the discount coupon is within its validity period. If the current date has already passed one year from the grant date, Processor 61 determines that the discount coupon is not valid. If the discount coupon is still valid, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT26. The processor 61 sends an acknowledgment as ACT26 to the accounting machine 10, the source of the reward event. Upon receiving this acknowledgment, the accounting machine 10 activates its processing means 414. Specifically, the processor 41 of the accounting machine 10 deducts 500 yen from the subtotal.

[0078] The processor 61, having sent an acknowledgment, proceeds to ACT27. As ACT27, the processor 61 changes the status S of the same benefit record 721 from "0" to "1". In other words, it changes the status of the benefit identified in benefit record 721 from unused to used.

[0079] In response to this, if status S in ACT23 is "1", meaning the coupon has been used, or if the coupon has expired in ACT25, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT28. As ACT28, the processor 61 sends a negative response to the accounting machine 10 that sent the reward event. Upon receiving the negative response, the accounting machine 10 does not perform its function as a processing means 414. Thus, coupons with status S of "1", meaning they have been used, or coupons that have expired become invalid and cannot be used. With this, the processor 61 terminates the second information processing.

[0080] Here, processor 61 realizes the function of detection means 616 through processing of ACT21 and ACT22. Processor 61 realizes the function of modification means 617 through processing of ACT27. Processor 61 realizes the function of control means 618 through processing of ACT25 and ACT28.

[0081] [Effects of the Embodiment] As detailed above, in a complex processing facility SC equipped with a point management system 100 including a point management server 20, the following point services can be realized.

[0082] 1. Points are awarded not only at directly managed stores but also at tenant stores of the integrated processing facility SC when a member's transaction is settled at the first accounting machine 101 or the second accounting machine 102. The point management server 20 then acquires the awarded points and accumulates them as points P held by each member.

[0083] 2. When a member whose points P have reached the required points Pm settles a transaction at a directly managed store, the points management server 20 controls the cashier 10, i.e., the first cashier 101, of that directly managed store to issue a discount coupon. At this time, the number of discount coupons issued is an integer equal to the quotient obtained by dividing the points P held by the required points Pm.

[0084] 3. The point management server 20 sets a unique reward code for each reward voucher each time it controls the issuance of a voucher. The point management server 20 then stores a status S indicating whether the voucher is unused or used, associated with the reward code of each voucher. The reward code is printed on the voucher in the form of a barcode.

[0085] 4. When a member presents a discount coupon at a directly managed store or tenant store and the barcode, i.e., the benefit code, is read by the first checkout machine 101 or the second checkout machine 102, the point management server 20 determines whether the discount coupon identified by that benefit code has been used or not. If the discount coupon has not been used, the point management server 20 outputs a signal to the first checkout machine 101 or the second checkout machine 102 to authorize the execution of the benefit processing. The point management server 20 then changes the status of the discount coupon to used. On the other hand, if the discount coupon has been used, the point management server 20 does not output a signal to authorize the execution of the benefit processing. Therefore, unused discount coupons can be used, but once a discount coupon has been used, it cannot be used again.

[0086] As described above, this embodiment provides a point management device, or point management server 20, that enables the easy introduction of a point service in a shopping center (SC).

[0087] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment will be described using Figures 10 and 11.

[0088] In the first embodiment, when a member whose points P have reached the required points Pm settle a transaction at a directly managed store, the point management server 20 controls the system so that a discount coupon is issued from the store's accounting machine 10, i.e., the first accounting machine 101. However, it is assumed that some members may not want a discount coupon issued each time their points P reach the required points Pm. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the system asks members whose points P have reached the required points Pm whether or not they want a discount coupon issued. Then, a discount coupon is issued to members who wish to receive one. For members who do not wish to receive one, no discount coupon is issued, and their points P are retained.

[0089] The difference between this second embodiment and the first embodiment lies in a part of the first information processing performed by the processor 61 of the point management server 20. Since everything else is the same as in the first embodiment, Figures 1 to 6, 8, and 9 will be used in the second embodiment as well, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0090] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the first information processing performed by the processor 61 of the point management server 20 in the second embodiment, with some parts omitted. Parts common to the first information processing in the first embodiment shown in Figure 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0091] As shown in Figure 10, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that in ACT8, the store table 73 is searched using the store ID and accounting machine ID obtained in the processing of ACT7, and the processing after confirming that the type flag F is "1" is performed. Specifically, the processor 61 outputs an inquiry event as ACT31 to the first accounting machine 101, the source of the grant event notification. The inquiry event is an event that asks whether or not to issue a discount coupon.

[0092] Upon receiving the inquiry event, the first accounting machine 101 displays the inquiry screen 90 (see Figure 11) on the display 47. Figure 11 shows an example of the inquiry screen 90. The inquiry screen 90 is a screen that displays a message notifying the member that a discount coupon can be issued, along with a first button 91 to instruct the member to issue the coupon and a second button 92 to instruct the member not to issue the coupon. After the store clerk checks the inquiry screen 90, they ask the member whether or not they want to issue a discount coupon. If the member wishes to issue a discount coupon, they press the first button 91. If the member does not wish to issue a discount coupon, they press the second button 92. When the first button 91 is pressed, the first cashier 101 outputs an affirmative issuance signal to the point management server 20. When the second button 92 is pressed, the first cashier 101 outputs a negative issuance signal to the point management server 20. Alternatively, the inquiry screen 90 may be displayed on a customer display, allowing the customer to press either the first button 91 or the second button 92 themselves.

[0093] Returning to the explanation of Figure 10. The processor 61 of the point management server 20 that sent the inquiry event proceeds to ACT32. The processor 61 waits for either an issuance affirmation signal or an issuance denial signal as ACT32. If an issuance affirmation signal is received from the first accounting machine 101, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT31 to ACT9. The processor 61 then executes the processing of ACT9 to ACT15 and ACT17 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Through this control, the first accounting machine 101 issues discount coupons in the number of coupons N calculated based on the points held P and the granting condition points Pm.

[0094] In response to this, if a ticket issuance denial signal is received from the first accounting machine 101, the processor 61 proceeds from ACT31 to ACT16. The processor 61 then performs the processing of ACT16 and ACT17 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Therefore, no discount coupon is issued, and the member's points P remain.

[0095] Thus, according to the second embodiment, when a member's points P reach the required points Pm, they can choose whether or not to issue a discount coupon when settling a transaction at a directly managed store where the first accounting machine 101 is installed. As a result, members can easily implement operations such as issuing discount coupons in bulk when needed.

[0096] <Other Embodiments> The content of the point service introduced in the integrated picture processing facility is not limited to what is described in the above embodiment. For example, the benefits are not limited to discount coupons. Any benefit provided to members by printing on receipt paper using the printer 48 of the accounting machine 10 is acceptable. Alternatively, the accounting machine 10 may be connected to a wireless communication medium such as a contactless IC card or a smartphone, and a communication device capable of short-range wireless communication may be connected, and the benefits may be provided to the wireless communication medium using short-range wireless communication.

[0097] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the accounting machine 10 of a directly managed store is defined as a first accounting machine 101 having a ticket issuing means 412, and the accounting machine 10 of a tenant store is defined as a second accounting machine 102 not having a ticket issuing means 412. In this regard, for example, even if the accounting machine 10 of a tenant store is the same model as the accounting machine 10 of a directly managed store, it may be defined as a first accounting machine 101. Specifically, the type flag F in the store table 73 should be set to "1".

[0098] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which a reward is provided when a transaction with a member whose accumulated points P have reached or exceeded the reward condition points Pm is settled at the first accounting machine 101. In this regard, it is also possible to provide a reward even if the member does not settle the transaction. For example, the first accounting machine 101 can be set to a mode dedicated to providing rewards, separate from the mode for processing transaction settlements. This mode is a mode in which, upon obtaining the member ID as the member's identification information, executes a process that sends a grant event including the member ID, store ID, and accounting machine ID to the point management server 20. Upon receiving the grant event, the point management server 20 executes the first information processing procedure shown in Figure 7 or Figure 10. Thus, for example, a member whose accumulated points P have reached or exceeded the reward condition points Pm through shopping at a tenant store where the first accounting machine 101 is not installed can receive a reward even without shopping at a directly managed store where the first accounting machine is installed.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the conditions for granting the benefit are set to "issue a 500 yen discount coupon every time the points P held reach 500 points," and an example is given where, after issuing N 500 yen discount coupons, [500*N] points are deducted from the points P held, leaving the remaining points P. In this regard, for the remaining points P held, a discount coupon equivalent to the amount of those points may be forcibly issued. For example, for a member with 700 points T held, a 500 yen discount coupon and a 200 yen discount coupon may be issued. In this case, a benefit code is attached to the 500 yen discount coupon to manage whether it is unused or used, but no benefit code is attached to discount coupons of less than 500 yen. By doing so, the storage capacity of the benefit database 72 can be saved.

[0100] In addition, several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [1] A point management device comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring points granted to a point holder from a terminal at a first store that is capable of providing benefits according to the points held by the point holder, and a terminal at a second store that is not capable of providing the said benefits; an update means for updating the points held by the point holder with the points acquired by the acquisition means; and a provision means for providing benefits at the first store to point holders whose points satisfy the conditions for providing the said benefits. [2] The point management device according to Appendix [1], further comprising: a generation means for generating identification information for each benefit provided by the provision means; and a storage means for storing the usage status of the benefit identified by the identification information in association with the identification information generated by the generation means. [3] The point management device described in Appendix [2], further comprising: detection means for detecting a benefit used at the first store or the second store based on data received from the terminal of the first store or the terminal of the second store; and modification means for changing the usage status of the benefit detected by the detection means from unused to used. [4] A point management device as described in Appendix [3], further comprising control means for allowing the use of a reward if the usage status of the reward detected by the detection means is unused, and prohibiting the use of the reward if it has been used. [5] The aforementioned benefit is a discount coupon to be used at the first store or the second store, a point management device as described in any one of the appendices [1] to [4]. [6] A program to cause a computer in a point management device, which can communicate data with a terminal in a first store that can provide benefits according to the points held by point holders, and a terminal in a second store that cannot provide the benefits, to function as an acquisition means for acquiring points granted to point holders from the terminal in the first store and the terminal in the second store, an update means for updating the points held by point holders with the points acquired by the acquisition means, and a provision means for providing benefits in the first store to point holders whose points satisfy the conditions for providing the benefits. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0101] 10…Accounting machine, 20…Point management server, 30…Communication network, 41,61…Processor, 42,62…Main memory, 43,63…Auxiliary storage device, 44,64…Clock, 45,65…Communication interface, 46…Keyboard, 47…Display, 48…Printer, 49…Card reader, 50…Scanner interface, 51…Cash dispenser interface, 52,66…System transmission line, 53…Scanner, 54…Automatic cash dispenser Machine, 71... Member database, 72... Benefits database, 73... Store table, 80... Discount coupon, 90... Inquiry screen, 100... Point management system, 101... First accounting machine, 102... Second accounting machine, 411... Granting means, 412... Issuing means, 413... Reading means, 414... Processing means, 611... Acquisition means, 612... Update means, 613... Provision means, 614... Generation means, 615... Storage means, 616... Detection means, 617... Modification means, 618... Control means.

Claims

1. A means for acquiring points awarded to point holders from terminals at different stores, An update means for updating the points held by the point holder with the points acquired by the acquisition means, A first storage means stores function identification information that identifies whether the terminal identified by the terminal identification information is a first terminal having the function of providing benefits to the point holder, or a second terminal not having the function of providing benefits, in association with terminal identification information that individually identifies the terminals of the aforementioned different stores. When the points held, updated by the update means, satisfy the conditions for granting the reward, a determination means determines, based on the function identification information, whether the terminal to which the points acquired by the acquisition means were awarded is the first terminal or the second terminal. If the terminal is determined to be the first terminal, the grant control means will execute a process to grant a benefit to the terminal, and if the terminal is determined to be the second terminal, the grant control means will not execute the process to the terminal. A point management device equipped with the following features.

2. A generation means that generates identification information for each benefit granted to the point holder by processing performed by the provision control means, A second storage means stores the usage status of the benefit identified by the identification information, in association with the identification information generated by the generation means, The point management device according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. A detection means for detecting the benefits used at the store based on the data received from the terminal, A change means for changing the usage status of the benefit detected by the detection means from unused to used, The point management device according to claim 2, further comprising:

4. Control means that, if the usage status of the benefit detected by the detection means is unused, allows the use of the benefit, and if it has been used, prohibits the use of the benefit. The point management device according to claim 3, further comprising:

5. The point management device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the aforementioned benefit is a discount coupon used at the aforementioned store.

6. A computer for a point management device that can communicate data with terminals in different stores, A means for acquiring points awarded to point holders from terminals at different stores. An update means to update the points held by the point holder with the points acquired by the acquisition means, A first storage means stores function identification information that identifies whether the terminal identified by the terminal identification information is a first terminal having the function of providing benefits to the point holder, or a second terminal not having the function of providing benefits, in association with terminal identification information that individually identifies the terminals of the aforementioned different stores. When the points held, updated by the update means, satisfy the conditions for granting the reward, a determination means for determining whether the terminal to which the points acquired by the acquisition means were awarded is the first terminal or the second terminal, based on the function identification information, and If the terminal is determined to be the first terminal, the grant control means will execute a process to grant a benefit to the terminal, and if the terminal is determined to be the second terminal, the grant control means will not execute the process to the terminal. A program designed to function as such.

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