Assistance system

Abstract

An assistance system 1 assists the maintenance of the health of an individual user and the realization of a decarbonized society, by mediating an exchange contract between benefits provided by a client and decarbonization points based on a decarbonization amount which is the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by the user by refraining from using an automobile and a motorcycle. This assistance system 1 comprises a user terminal 2 functioning as: a moving distance / speed calculation unit 24 for calculating a moving distance of the user as well as a moving speed of the user; a moving means determination unit 25 for determining, on the basis of the moving speed, whether a moving means of the user is one of walking and bicycling; and a decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 for calculating the decarbonization amount on the basis of the moving distance, if the moving means of the user is one of walking and bicycling and the moving distance is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value.

Description

Support System

[0001] The present invention relates to a support system that supports users in maintaining their health and realizing a carbon-free society.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a health management support system that supports a user's health management by utilizing a user terminal device carried by the user (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] JP 2012-230503 A

[0004] However, in today's world where the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are being set, systems that are specialized in maintaining the health of individual users are not very appealing, and there is also a strong desire for them to contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a support system that supports the maintenance of the health of individual users and the realization of a carbon-free society.

[0006] (1) The present invention is a support system (for example, the support system 1 described later) that supports the maintenance of the health of individual users and the realization of a decarbonized society by mediating an exchange contract between decarbonization points, which are based on the amount of decarbonization, which is the amount of carbon dioxide that the user has reduced by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles, and benefits proposed by a client. The support system 1 is carried by the user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and includes a travel speed calculation unit (for example, the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 described later) that calculates the user's travel speed, a travel means determination unit (for example, the travel means determination unit 25 described later) that determines whether the user's means of travel is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, a travel distance calculation unit (for example, the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 described later) that calculates the user's travel distance, and a travel distance calculation unit (for example, the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 described later) that determines whether the user's means of travel is walking or cycling based on the travel speed. This assistance system comprises a user terminal (for example, user terminal 2 described later) that functions as a decarbonization amount calculation unit (for example, decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 described later) that calculates the decarbonization amount based on the traveled distance when the distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and a management server (for example, management server 3 described later) that is capable of sending and receiving information to and from the user terminal, wherein the management server comprises a memory unit (for example, non-volatile memory 33 described later) that stores information related to the benefit in association with the conditions for exchange with the decarbonization points, a decarbonization point awarding unit (for example, decarbonization point awarding unit 40 described later) that awards the decarbonization points based on the decarbonization amount obtained as information from the user terminal, and an exchange contract execution unit (for example, exchange contract execution unit 42 described later) that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization points and the benefit.

[0007] According to the present invention, when a user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling and the user's travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the amount of decarbonization can be calculated based on the user's travel distance, and an exchange contract can be brokered between decarbonization points based on this amount of decarbonization and benefits provided by the client. This can help maintain the health of each user and support the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0008] (2) The present invention also provides the support system described in (1) above, characterized in that the user terminal functions as a step counting unit (e.g., step counting unit 27 described later) that counts the number of steps taken by the user and a bicycle distance calculation unit (e.g., travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 described later) that calculates the distance traveled by the user's bicycle, the management server has a health point granting unit (e.g., health point granting unit 41 described later) that grants health points based on the number of steps and the distance traveled obtained as information from the user terminal, and the exchange contract execution unit executes an exchange contract for both the decarbonization points and the health points with the benefit.

[0009] According to the present invention, health points can be calculated based on the number of steps taken by a user and the distance traveled by the user's bicycle, and an exchange contract can be mediated between the decarbonization points and health points and benefits provided by the client, thereby supporting the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0010] (3) The present invention is also a support system described in (2) above, characterized in that the memory unit stores the number of steps, the distance traveled, and the amount of carbon dioxide reduction obtained as information from the user terminal, linking them to the user's unique information, and stores the exchange contract executed by the exchange contract execution unit as history, linking them to the unique information of each user and client who executed the exchange contract, and also stores information regarding advertisements to be output to the user terminal, and the management server is equipped with an advertisement determination unit (e.g., advertisement determination unit 43 described below) that determines the advertisements to be output to the user terminal based on the history.

[0011] According to the present invention, by outputting advertisements based on the history of exchange contracts to user terminals, it is possible to encourage new exchange contracts, thereby supporting the maintenance of the health of individual users and the realization of a carbon-free society.

[0012] (4) The present invention also provides a support system as described in any of (1) to (3) above, characterized in that the management server includes a fraud determination unit (e.g., fraud determination unit 44 described below) that determines, based on a predetermined event, whether the decarbonization amount obtained as information from the user terminal is due to user fraud, and the decarbonization point granting unit prohibits the granting of decarbonization points based on the decarbonization amount when the fraud determination unit determines that the decarbonization amount is due to user fraud.

[0013] According to the present invention, if the amount of decarbonization is due to fraudulent activity by a user, it is possible to prohibit the awarding of decarbonization points based on that amount of decarbonization, thereby preventing fraud before it occurs. This makes it possible to properly support the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0014] (5) The present invention also provides a support system (for example, the support system 1 described later) that supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a decarbonized society by mediating an exchange contract between a decarbonization amount, which is the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by the user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles, and a benefit provided by a client. The support system 1 is carried by the user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and includes a movement speed calculation unit (for example, a movement distance / speed calculation unit 24 described later) that calculates the movement speed of the user, a transportation means determination unit (for example, the transportation means determination unit 25 described later) that determines whether the user's transportation means is walking or cycling based on the movement speed, and a movement distance calculation unit (for example, a movement distance / speed calculation unit 26 described later). a user terminal (for example, user terminal 2 described later) that functions as a decarbonization amount calculation unit (for example, decarbonization amount calculation unit 24) that calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and a management server (for example, management server 3 described later) that is capable of sending and receiving information to and from the user terminal, wherein the management server comprises a memory unit (for example, non-volatile memory 33 described later) that stores information related to the benefit in association with the conditions for exchange with the decarbonization amount, and an exchange contract execution unit (for example, exchange contract execution unit 42 described later) that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization amount and the benefit.

[0015] According to the present invention, when a user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling and the user's travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the amount of carbon dioxide reduction can be calculated based on the user's travel distance, and an exchange contract can be mediated between this amount of carbon reduction and a benefit provided by the client. This can help maintain the health of each user and support the realization of a carbon-free society.

[0016] (6) The present invention also provides a support system (for example, support system 5 described below) that manages the decarbonization amount during the commute to a client who is the user's workplace, in which the user terminal functions as a time information acquisition unit (for example, time information acquisition unit 23 described below) that acquires current time information, a travel route acquisition unit (for example, travel route acquisition unit 52 described below) that acquires the user's travel route, and a commute time determination unit (for example, commute time determination unit 53 described below) that determines whether the decarbonization amount calculated by the decarbonization amount calculation unit is for the commute time based on the time information, the travel route, and a preset commute time zone and commute route, and the storage unit stores the decarbonization amount during the commute in the account of the client who is the user's workplace. This is the support system described in any of (1) to (5) above.

[0017] According to the present invention, the client, which is the user's workplace, can manage the amount of decarbonization as an organization, thereby supporting the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0018] (7) The present invention is also a support system described in any one of (1) to (6) above, characterized in that the decarbonization amount calculation unit calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user remains within a predetermined range at the destination for a predetermined time or more.

[0019] According to the present invention, "exercise" that does not correspond to behavioral changes for decarbonization can be excluded from the calculation of the decarbonization amount. In other words, by determining "travel" only when a certain amount of "stay time" or more is detected at the destination, and determining "exercise" otherwise, only appropriate target behavior can be included in the calculation of the decarbonization amount.

[0020] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a support system that supports the maintenance of the health of individual users and the realization of a carbon-free society.

[0021] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a support system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a user terminal. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a management server. FIG. 4 is an image diagram showing a menu screen output on the touch panel of a user terminal. FIG. 5 is an image diagram showing a map output on the touch panel of a user terminal. FIG. 6 is a list showing the conditions for exchanging various points with the number of steps, distance traveled by bicycle, and amount of decarbonization. FIG. 7 is a list showing the conditions for an exchange contract between decarbonization points and benefits, and the conditions for an exchange contract between both decarbonization points and health points and benefits. FIG. 8 is an image diagram showing a review screen made public by a client. FIG. 9 is a flowchart explaining the processing flow of the support system. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a user terminal provided in a support system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between three parties in a support system according to an application example.

[0022] Hereinafter, a support system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0023] [First Embodiment] First, the configuration of a support system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the support system 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a user terminal 2. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a management server 3. FIG. 4 is an image diagram showing a menu screen output on the touch panel 14 of the user terminal 2. FIG. 5 is an image diagram showing a map output on the touch panel 14 of the user terminal 2. FIG. 6 is a table showing the conditions for exchanging various points for the number of steps, bicycle distance traveled, and carbon dioxide reduction amount. FIG. 7 is a table showing the conditions for an exchange contract between decarbonization points and benefits, and the conditions for an exchange contract between both decarbonization points and health points and benefits. FIG. 8 is an image diagram showing a review screen published by a client.

[0024] The support system 1 shown in Figure 1 mediates an exchange contract between decarbonization points, which are based on the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by a user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles, and benefits provided by clients. The support system 1 also mediates an exchange contract between decarbonization points and health points, which will be described later, and benefits provided by clients. In this way, the support system 1 supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0025] However, in the support system 1, users can execute exchange contracts with the clients to which they belong. By registering with a client, users can select one or more clients to which they belong. Furthermore, clients can increase the number of users who register with them by enhancing the benefits they offer. For example, a client company can enhance the support goods and services offered as benefits based on the user's travel attributes and means (walking, cycling, etc.). Or, a client local government can enhance its healthy citizen support campaign as a benefit based on determining that the user's home is located within the local government's area. Furthermore, clients can increase the decarbonization points they earn through exchange contracts by enhancing awareness-raising activities and benefits within their organizations.

[0026] Ordinary individuals can register to participate in this support system 1 as users, and organizations such as companies and local governments can register to participate as clients. The motivation for registering with this support system 1 is the ability to exchange decarbonization points and health points for benefits. Furthermore, since earning decarbonization points externally demonstrates a company's commitment to working toward a decarbonized society, i.e., it also serves as investor relations information, earning decarbonization points is a motivation for companies to register as clients. Furthermore, since maintaining the health of individual users leads to reduced medical expenses, this is a motivation for local governments to register as clients.

[0027] Specifically, the support system 1 includes a user terminal 2, a management server 3, a client terminal 4, and the like.

[0028] The user terminal 2 is a terminal carried by the user, and is a general communication terminal such as a smartphone. This user terminal 2 is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information. Furthermore, the user terminal 2 is connected to the Internet, and is therefore capable of communicating with the management server 3. By communicating with the management server 3, such a user terminal 2 is capable of performing various operations, such as user registration, client registration, exchanging the amount of decarbonization for decarbonization points, exchanging the number of steps and bicycle distance traveled for health points, and exchanging the decarbonization points and health points for benefits.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the user terminal 2 includes a CPU 10, a RAM 11, a ROM 12, a non-volatile memory 13, a touch panel 14, an acceleration sensor 15, a communication unit 16, and the like.

[0030] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10 executes various programs to realize various functions such as a display control unit 20, a map information acquisition unit 21, a location information acquisition unit 22, a time information acquisition unit 23, a travel distance / speed calculation unit 24, a means of transportation determination unit 25, a carbon dioxide reduction amount calculation unit 26, and a step counting unit 27, thereby providing overall control of the user terminal 2. The RAM (Random Access Memory) 11 is used as a work area for the CPU 10. The ROM (Read Only Memory) 12 stores the basic OS and various programs executed by the CPU 10. The non-volatile memory 13 records various information.

[0031] The touch panel 14 recognizes touches by the user and accepts them as input, and displays various screens such as a menu screen (see FIG. 4) and a map (see FIG. 5) in a scrollable manner under the control of the display control unit 20. The touch panel 14 displays a browser, allowing input to the management server 3 via the browser.

[0032] The acceleration sensor 15 detects the acceleration of the user terminal 2 and inputs the detection result to the step counting unit 27. The communication unit 16 connects to the Internet. This communication unit 16 communicates with the management server 3 and the like based on input from the touch panel 14, etc. The display control unit 20 controls the display mode of the touch panel 14 based on input from the touch panel 14, information received by the communication unit 16, information recorded in the non-volatile memory 13, etc.

[0033] The map information acquisition unit 21 acquires map information about the area around the user terminal 2 by connecting to the Internet via the communication unit 16, and inputs the map information to the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 and the means of transportation determination unit 25. The location information acquisition unit 22 acquires location information about the user terminal 2 by using GPS or by connecting to a base station or Wi-Fi, and inputs the location information to the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24. The time information acquisition unit 23 acquires current time information by connecting to the Internet via the communication unit 16, and inputs the time information to the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24.

[0034] The travel distance / speed calculation unit (travel distance calculation unit) 24 calculates the user's travel distance by mapping the location information of the user terminal 2 to map information as needed. Specifically, when the transportation means determination unit 25 determines that the user's transportation means is walking, the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 calculates the user's walking distance. Then, when the transportation means determination unit 25 determines that the user's transportation means is a bicycle, the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 (bicycle travel distance calculation unit) calculates the user's bicycle travel distance. Furthermore, when the transportation means determination unit 25 determines that the user's transportation means is an automobile or a motorcycle, the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 calculates the user's automobile and motorcycle travel distance. Furthermore, when the transportation means determination unit 25 determines that the user's transportation means is a train, the travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 calculates the user's train travel distance.

[0035] The travel distance / speed calculation unit (travel speed calculation unit) 24 calculates the travel time based on the time information for the start and end of the travel, and then calculates the user's travel speed by dividing the travel distance by the travel time. The travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 then inputs the "map information obtained by constantly mapping the location information of the user terminal 2" acquired when calculating the user's travel distance as travel information (see FIG. 5) to the management server 3 via the communication unit 16. The travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 also inputs the calculated travel distance to the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 and the calculated travel speed to the transportation means determination unit 25. The travel distance / speed calculation unit 24 also inputs the calculated user's walking distance, the calculated user's bicycle distance, the calculated user's automobile and motorcycle distance, and the calculated user's train distance to the management server 3 via the communication unit 16.

[0036] The transportation means determination unit 25 determines whether the user's transportation means is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, and inputs the determination result to the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26. Specifically, the transportation means determination unit 25 determines that the user's transportation means is walking when the travel speed is less than a first speed (e.g., 8 km / h), and determines that the user's transportation means is cycling when the travel speed is equal to or greater than the first speed (e.g., 8 km / h) and less than a second speed (e.g., 21 km / h).

[0037] The transportation means determination unit 25 determines that the user's transportation means is an automobile, a motorcycle, or a train when the traveling speed is equal to or greater than a second speed (e.g., 21 km / h). Furthermore, the transportation means determination unit 25 that has determined that the user's transportation means is an automobile, a motorcycle, or a train also determines that the user's transportation means is an automobile or a motorcycle when the user's traveling route does not overlap with a railway line in the map information, and determines that the user's transportation means is a train when the user's traveling route overlaps with a railway line in the map information.

[0038] If the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 1,400 m), the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance, assuming that the user refrains from using automobiles and motorcycles. The decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 inputs the calculated decarbonization amount to the management server 3 via the communication unit 16. Specifically, if the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 1,400 m), the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 converts the travel distance in kilometers into a dimensionless number and multiplies it by 130 g to calculate the decarbonization amount. For example, if the travel distance is 2 km, the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 calculates the decarbonization amount as 260 g (= 2 (km) × 130 g). Note that because the data released by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is 130 g, the decarbonization amount is calculated here by multiplying by 130 g, but this 130 g can be set appropriately depending on the situation. For example, different settings may be used for each mode of transportation.

[0039] The step counting unit 27 counts the number of steps taken by the user by utilizing the acceleration of the user terminal 2. The step counting unit 27 inputs the counted number of steps to the management server 3 via the communication unit 16.

[0040] Returning to Figure 1, the management server 3 is a server managed by an administrator or the like of the support system 1, and stores various information acquired from the user terminal 2 and the client terminal 4, as well as various information required to operate the support system 1. This management server 3 is connected to the Internet, so it can send and receive information to and from the user terminal 2 and the client terminal 4.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 3, the management server 3 includes a CPU 30, a RAM 31, a ROM 32, a non-volatile memory (storage unit) 33, a communication unit 34, and the like.

[0042] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 30 executes various programs to realize various functions such as a decarbonization point granting unit 40, a health point granting unit 41, an exchange contract execution unit 42, an advertisement determination unit 43, and a fraud determination unit 44, and comprehensively controls the management server 3. The RAM (Random Access Memory) 31 is used as a working area for the CPU 30. The ROM (Read Only Memory) 32 stores the basic OS and various programs executed by the CPU 30.

[0043] The nonvolatile memory 33 stores various information. Specifically, the nonvolatile memory 33 stores the conditions for exchanging the number of steps taken by the user, the distance traveled by the user's bicycle, and the amount of carbon dioxide reduction for various points (see FIG. 6). The nonvolatile memory 33 stores information about benefits provided to clients, linked to the conditions for exchanging these points for carbon dioxide reduction points (see FIG. 7).

[0044] The non-volatile memory 33 stores the number of steps taken by the user, the distance traveled by the user on foot, the distance traveled by the user on a bicycle, the distance traveled by the user on a car or motorcycle, the distance traveled by the user on a train, map information obtained by constantly mapping the location information of the user terminal 2, and the amount of decarbonization as activity data, linked to the user's unique information (profile). The activity data is accumulated.

[0045] The non-volatile memory 33 also stores the exchange contract executed by the exchange contract execution unit 42 as a history, linking it to the unique information of each user and client who executed the exchange contract, and stores information about advertisements to be output to the user terminal 2. Furthermore, the non-volatile memory 33 stores information about benefits obtained as information from the client terminal 4 as client information, linking it to the unique information of the client (company (local government) information), etc. The client information includes user information of registered users.

[0046] The communication unit 34 communicates with the user terminal 2, the client terminal 4, and the like by connecting to the Internet.

[0047] When a predetermined input requesting the awarding of decarbonization points is received from the user terminal 2, the decarbonization point awarding unit 40 awards decarbonization points based on the amount of decarbonization obtained as information from the user terminal 2. At this time, the decarbonization point awarding unit 40 awards decarbonization points in accordance with the exchange conditions in the list (see FIG. 6 ). If the fraud determination unit 44 determines that the amount of decarbonization is due to fraud by the user, the decarbonization point awarding unit 40 prohibits the awarding of decarbonization points based on the amount of decarbonization.

[0048] When a predetermined input requesting the awarding of health points is received from the user terminal 2, the health point awarding unit 41 awards health points based on the number of steps and the distance traveled by bicycle acquired as information from the user terminal 2. At this time, the health point awarding unit 41 awards health points in accordance with the exchange conditions in the table (see FIG. 6). If the fraud determination unit 44 determines that the number of steps or the distance traveled by bicycle are due to fraudulent activity by the user, the health point awarding unit 41 prohibits the awarding of health points based on the number of steps or the distance traveled by bicycle.

[0049] When a predetermined input is received from the user terminal 2 indicating a desire to exchange for a benefit, the exchange contract execution unit 42 executes an exchange contract between decarbonization points and a benefit, or executes an exchange contract between both decarbonization points and health points and a benefit. At this time, the exchange contract execution unit 42 executes the exchange contract in accordance with the conditions of the exchange contract in the list (see Figure 7). When the exchange contract is executed, the user's decarbonization points are consumed and bet by the client. As a result, they are recorded as the client's decarbonization points.

[0050] The advertisement determination unit 43, upon receiving a predetermined input from the user terminal 2 or the like, determines one or more client advertisements to be output to the user terminal 2 based on the history of the exchange contract, and inputs information about the advertisements to the user terminal 2 via the communication unit 34. Possible triggers for the advertisement determination unit 43 to operate include, for example, when it is determined based on the past behavior history that the user is about to start moving on foot, or when a leaf is given to the user.

[0051] The fraud determination unit 44 determines whether the amount of decarbonization obtained as information from the user terminal 2 is due to fraud by the user based on a specified event defined as fraud, and inputs the determination result to the decarbonization point assignment unit 40 and the health point assignment unit 41.

[0052] Returning to FIG. 1 , the client terminal 4 is a terminal used by a client and is a general communication terminal such as a personal computer or tablet terminal. This client terminal 4 is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information. Furthermore, by being connected to the Internet, the client terminal 4 is capable of communicating with the management server 3. By communicating with the management server 3, the client terminal 4 can perform various operations, such as client registration, benefit registration, registration of exchange contract terms, viewing and downloading user information of users registered to the client terminal 4, registering as a client under an organization related to the client terminal 4, prohibiting specific users from registering to the client terminal 4, and deregistering users registered to the client terminal 4.

[0053] Registering an organization related to oneself as a client means, for example, that client department store company A acts as the parent and registers its subsidiaries apparel company B, apparel company C, food company D, and health food company E as its subsidiaries. Alternatively, client local government A acts as the parent and registers its subsidiaries local greengrocer B, local insurance company C, and local butcher D as its subsidiaries. Decarbonization points acquired through exchange contracts for benefits provided by subsidiaries are, in principle, counted as belonging to the parent. However, clients are free to decide how decarbonization points will be shared through discussions between the parent and subsidiaries.

[0054] The setting to prohibit specific users from registering themselves is, for example, a setting based on the credibility of the user's unique information. By making this setting, the client can limit the users that belong to it. In other words, the client can select users at the entry point for participation in this system. The client can also delete users who are participating in the system midway based on the downloaded "user information of users registered to the client."

[0055] As shown in FIG. 4, the menu screen output on the touch panel 14 (see FIG. 2) of the user terminal 2 (see FIG. 2) displays a login button 14a, a cumulative number of steps 14b, a cumulative bicycle travel distance 14c, a cumulative decarbonization amount 14d, a map button 14e, and the like. Touching the login button 14a transitions to a post-login screen, where various operations become possible. On the post-login screen, various operations become possible, such as registration operations such as user registration and client registration. The cumulative number of steps 14b, the cumulative bicycle travel distance 14c, and the cumulative decarbonization amount 14d are each cumulative data acquired from the management server 3 (see FIG. 1). Touching the map button 14e transitions to a map screen (see FIG. 5).

[0056] As shown in Figure 5, the map output on the touch panel 14 (see Figure 2) of the user terminal 2 (see Figure 2) maps the location information of the user terminal 2 (see Figure 2) at any time, and displays various information regarding the current and most recent travel history (e.g., type of transportation, names of roads used for travel, start and end times of travel, number of steps required for travel, distance traveled, etc.).

[0057] The table shown in Figure 6 shows the conditions for exchanging the number of steps, distance traveled by bicycle, and amount of decarbonization for various points, and is stored in the non-volatile memory 33 (see Figure 3) of the management server 3 (see Figure 3). The number of steps and distance traveled by bicycle can be exchanged for jewels (sapphire, ruby, emerald, topaz, etc.), which are health points. The amount of decarbonization (amount of CO2 emissions reduced) can be exchanged for leaves, which are decarbonization points.

[0058] Specifically, 100 steps can be exchanged for one sapphire, which is a health point; 10,000 steps per day can be exchanged for one ruby, which is a health point; 10,000 steps per day for five consecutive days can be exchanged for one emerald, which is a health point; 1 km of bicycle travel can be exchanged for one topaz, which is a health point; and 100 g of decarbonization can be exchanged for one leaf, which is a decarbonization point.

[0059] The list shown in Figure 7 shows the conditions of the exchange contract for decarbonization points and benefits, and the conditions of the exchange contract for both decarbonization points and health points and benefits, and is stored in the non-volatile memory 33 (see Figure 3) of the management server 3 (see Figure 3).

[0060] Specifically, the bonus product A can be exchanged for 10 leaves, which are decarbonization points, and the bonus product B can be exchanged for 100 sapphires, which are health points, and 5 leaves, which are decarbonization points.

[0061] The review screen shown in FIG. 8 is a webpage that the client sets and publishes for a period of time, displaying aggregate activity data from users who have registered with the client. This review screen may be viewable on the app only to eligible users. The publication of data via such a review screen is at the client's discretion and is not required.

[0062] Next, the processing flow of the support system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of the support system 1.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 9, the support system 1 includes a decarbonization step S1, a points granting step S2, a rewards exchange step S3, and the like.

[0064] The decarbonization step S1 is a step in which, when a user refrains from using automobiles and motorcycles as a means of transportation and instead walks or rides a bicycle, the number of steps is counted, the distance traveled by bicycle is calculated, and the amount of decarbonization is calculated.

[0065] The point-assigning step S2 is a step of assigning health points based on the number of steps or distance traveled by bicycle obtained in the decarbonization step S1, and also assigning decarbonization points based on the amount of decarbonization obtained in the decarbonization step S1.

[0066] The reward exchange step S3 is a step of executing an exchange contract for decarbonization points and rewards, or executing an exchange contract for both decarbonization points and health points and rewards.

[0067] In this way, the support system 1 can calculate the amount of decarbonization based on the user's travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling and the user's travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and can also mediate an exchange contract between decarbonization points based on the amount of decarbonization and benefits provided by the client. This can support the maintenance of each user's health and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0068] Furthermore, the support system 1 can calculate health points based on the number of steps taken by the user and the distance traveled by the user's bicycle, and can also mediate exchange contracts between decarbonization points and health points and benefits provided by clients. This can support the maintenance of each user's health and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0069] Furthermore, the support system 1 can encourage new exchange contracts by outputting advertisements based on the history of exchange contracts to the user terminal 2. This can support the maintenance of the health of each individual user and the realization of a carbon-free society.

[0070] Furthermore, with the support system 1, if the amount of decarbonization is due to fraudulent activity by a user, the system can prohibit the awarding of decarbonization points based on that amount of decarbonization, thereby preventing fraud before it occurs. This allows the system to properly support the maintenance of the health of each individual user and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0071] [Second embodiment] Next, the configuration of the user terminal 2 provided in the support system 1 (see FIG. 1) according to the second embodiment will be described using FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the user terminal 2 provided in the support system 1 (see FIG. 1). The basic configuration of the support system 1 (see FIG. 1) according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the support system 1 (see FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment, but differs from the support system 1 (see FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment in that it has been equipped with a specification that enables measurement of decarbonization for business purposes. In the following, explanations and illustrations of the configuration, actions, and effects that are the same as those of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0072] The support system 1 (see FIG. 1) according to the second embodiment manages the amount of decarbonization during the commute to the client's workplace.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 10 , a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10 executes various programs to realize various functions such as a work date and time setting unit 50, a commute route setting unit 51, a travel route acquisition unit 52, and a commute time determination unit 53, thereby providing overall control over the user terminal 2.

[0074] The map information acquisition unit 21 inputs the acquired map information around the user terminal 2 to the travel route acquisition unit 52. The location information acquisition unit 22 inputs the acquired location information of the user terminal 2 to the travel route acquisition unit 52. The time information acquisition unit 23 inputs the acquired current time information to the commute time determination unit 53. Based on the commute route and commuting means input from the commute route setting unit 51, the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 calculates the decarbonization amount during remote work, assuming that the user does not go to work and refrains from using cars, motorcycles, and public transportation such as trains during remote work.

[0075] The work date and time setting unit 50 sets the work date and time and the work type for each work day (commencing work, remote work, etc.) based on input from the touch panel 14 displaying a calendar UI, etc., and inputs the set information into the commute time determination unit 53.

[0076] The commute route setting unit 51 sets the commute route and means of commuting (train, car, motorcycle, bicycle, walking, etc.) based on input from the touch panel 14, and inputs the set information to the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 and the commute time determination unit 53. Inputs required from the touch panel 14 to the commute route setting unit 51 include the home address, the address of the workplace (office, second office, third office, etc.) set by the client, the address of the work location when working remotely, etc.

[0077] The travel route acquisition unit 52 acquires the user's travel route by mapping the location information of the user terminal 2 onto map information as needed, and inputs the travel route to the commute time determination unit 53 .

[0078] The commute time determination unit 53 determines whether the decarbonization amount calculated by the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 is for commuting time based on current time information, the user's travel route, and preset work date and time, work mode, and commuting route. This commute time determination unit 53 uses the time period before and after the preset work date and time (for example, three hours before and after) as the commuting time period for its determination. Furthermore, when the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 inputs the decarbonization amount to the management server 3 (see FIG. 3 ), the commute time determination unit 53 links the determination result to the decarbonization amount and inputs it to the management server 3 (see FIG. 3 ) via the communication unit 16.

[0079] The non-volatile memory 33 (see FIG. 3) stores the carbon dioxide reduction amount during commuting in the account of the client, which is the workplace. The carbon dioxide reduction amount stored in the client's account is managed as a total for multiple users and in a ranking format for multiple users.

[0080] In this way, the support system 1 allows the client, which is the user's workplace, to manage the amount of decarbonization as an organization, thereby enabling the client, as an organization, to support the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a decarbonized society.

[0081] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and variations are possible. For example, the above-described embodiment may employ a mechanism for excluding travel for the purpose of exercise based on an analysis of the user's travel history (analysis of the user's travel log). For example, if a user travels by foot through a section where the user normally travels by train, the movement is determined not to be for the purpose of exercise. By enhancing such a mechanism, it is possible to exclude running for the purpose of exercise, such as running around the Imperial Palace.

[0082] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the carbon dioxide reduction amount calculation unit 26 calculated the carbon dioxide reduction amount assuming that the user refrained from using automobiles and motorcycles when the user's means of transportation was either walking or cycling and the travel distance was equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0083] For example, when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling, the carbon dioxide reduction amount calculation unit 26 may determine whether the user has refrained from using automobiles and motorcycles based on whether the user's travel route in the map information is a route along a roadway (a route close to a roadway). In this case, when the user's travel route in the map information is a route along a roadway, the carbon dioxide reduction amount calculation unit 26 calculates the carbon dioxide reduction amount by assuming that the user has refrained from using automobiles and motorcycles. On the other hand, when the user's travel route in the map information is not a route along a roadway, the carbon dioxide reduction amount calculation unit 26 does not calculate the carbon dioxide reduction amount by assuming that the user's travel route is for exercise purposes. This makes it possible to exclude running for exercise purposes, such as running in a park or trail running in the mountains.

[0084] Alternatively, as a combination of the above, the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 may calculate the decarbonization amount by assuming that the user has refrained from using automobiles and motorcycles when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling, the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and the user's travel route in the map information is a route along a roadway.

[0085] In the above embodiment, map information may be stored by constantly mapping the location information of the user terminal 2, and the stored information may be utilized. Such information is useful for the client local government when considering where to install benches, drinking fountains, etc., and can contribute to urban development.

[0086] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the management server 3 determines whether or not a transaction is fraudulent. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The client may determine whether or not a transaction is fraudulent. That is, the client may systematically control the level of strictness of the determination of whether or not a transaction is fraudulent. In this case, it is assumed that the client determines the level of strictness of the determination by selecting information that the client considers necessary for the determination from multiple factors, such as the completeness of personal information, whether or not credit card information has been entered, and past performance. Furthermore, in this case, it is preferable that the client company be able to select from multiple levels of strictness of the determination when transmitting the information as IR information.

[0087] In addition, in the above embodiment, a client may adopt an event creation function (creating an event page, setting routes, setting event periods, setting rewards, etc., in collaboration with companies and local governments). This allows the client to attract environmentally conscious users (potential customers).

[0088] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an exchange contract (matching) is realized between two parties, a user and a client company, or a user and a client local government, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a three-way match may be realized between a user, a client local government, and another client company. For example, a client local government may present a specification to a client company, such as "walking 1,000 steps around Tokyo Station can reduce annual medical expenses by 23,360 yen," and the client company may declare "sponsorship" by providing its own services or products, thereby presenting a more specific and easy-to-understand reward (benefit) to the user.

[0089] Furthermore, a three-way matching may be realized between a user such as an employee or citizen, a client such as a company or local government, and a client such as a local store. A support system 1 that realizes such a three-way matching will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the three parties in the support system 1 according to an application example.

[0090] The support system 1 according to the application example shown in Fig. 11 has substantially the same basic configuration as the support system 1 shown in Fig. 1. The support system 1 according to this application example is operated differently from the support system 1 shown in Fig. 1 in that the clients are not only companies and local governments, but also local stores that respond to calls from companies and local governments.

[0091] The support system 1 according to this application example allows the rewards exchanged for decarbonization points to be distributed among multiple clients. This type of operation is desirable for companies, as they need to find the funds required for the rewards from their limited employee benefit budgets. Neighborhood associations also desire this type of operation, as it is not possible to distribute municipal points, local products, and the like equally. Local stores also desire this type of operation, as offering coupons or products as rewards contributes to raising awareness and increasing sales.

[0092] As with the parent-child client relationship described above, decarbonization points acquired through exchange contracts for benefits offered by local stores will, in principle, be counted as belonging to the company or local government that contacted the local store. However, clients are free to set up how decarbonization points are shared among companies, local governments, and local stores.

[0093] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an exchange contract between decarbonization points based on the amount of decarbonization and a benefit provided by the client is mediated, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the exchange contract execution unit 42 may mediate an exchange contract between the amount of decarbonization and a benefit provided by the client. In this case, the exchange contract execution unit 42 executes the exchange contract between the amount of decarbonization and the benefit.

[0094] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an exchange contract between both decarbonization points and health points and a benefit provided by a client is mediated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may, for example, be an exchange contract between the amount of decarbonization and at least one of the number of steps and the distance traveled by bicycle and a benefit provided by a client. In this case, the exchange contract execution unit 42 executes an exchange contract between the amount of decarbonization and at least one of the number of steps and the distance traveled by bicycle and a benefit.

[0095] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the decarbonization amount is calculated regardless of whether the user's behavior is "exercise" or "travel." However, the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 may calculate the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user stays within a predetermined range at the destination for a predetermined time or more. This makes it possible to exclude "exercise" that does not correspond to a behavioral change for decarbonization from the calculation of the decarbonization amount. In other words, by determining the behavior as "travel" only when a "stay time" of a certain amount or more is detected at the destination, and determining it as "exercise" otherwise, it is possible to calculate the decarbonization amount only for appropriate target behaviors. Note that the functions of the decarbonization amount calculation unit 26 described above may be executed by a functional unit in the management server 3.

[0096] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Support system 2 User terminal 3 Management server 4 Client terminal 10 CPU 11 RAM 12 ROM 13 Non-volatile memory 14 Touch panel 14a Login button 14b Accumulative number of steps 14c Accumulative distance traveled by bicycle 14d Accumulative amount of decarbonization 14e Map button 15 Acceleration sensor 16 Communication unit 20 Display control unit 21 Map information acquisition unit 22 Position information acquisition unit 23 Time information acquisition unit 24 Travel distance / speed calculation unit (travel distance calculation unit, travel speed calculation unit, bicycle travel distance calculation unit) 25 Transportation means determination unit 26 Decarbonization amount calculation unit 27 Step counting unit 30 CPU 31 RAM 32 ROM 33 Non-volatile memory (storage unit) 34 Communication unit 40 Decarbonization point assignment unit 41 Health point assignment unit 42 Exchange contract execution unit 43 Advertising determination unit 44 Fraud determination unit 50 Working date and time setting unit 51 Commuting route setting unit 52 Travel route acquisition unit 53 Commuting time determination unit S1 Decarbonization step S2 Points assignment step S3 Benefit exchange step

Claims

1. A support system that supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a carbon-free society by mediating an exchange contract between decarbonization points based on the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by the user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles and rewards provided by clients, a user terminal that is carried by a user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and that functions as a travel speed calculation unit that calculates the user's travel speed, a travel means determination unit that determines whether the user's travel means is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, a travel distance calculation unit that calculates the user's travel distance, and a decarbonization amount calculation unit that calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's travel means is walking or cycling and the user's movement is along a roadway according to a map; A management server capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the user terminal; The management server includes: A storage unit that stores information regarding the benefit in association with conditions for exchange with the decarbonization points; a decarbonization point granting unit that grants the decarbonization points based on the decarbonization amount acquired as information from the user terminal; and an exchange contract execution unit that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization points and the benefit. Support system.

2. The carbon-reduction amount calculation unit calculates the carbon-reduction amount based on the travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling, the user's travel is along a roadway according to a map, and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The support system according to claim 1 .

3. A support system that supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a carbon-free society by mediating an exchange contract between decarbonization points based on the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by the user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles and rewards provided by clients, a user terminal which is carried by a user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and which functions as a travel speed calculation unit which calculates the user's travel speed, a travel means determination unit which determines whether the user's travel means is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, a travel distance calculation unit which calculates the user's travel distance, and a decarbonization amount calculation unit which calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's travel means is walking or cycling and the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined period of time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance; A management server capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the user terminal; The management server includes: A storage unit that stores information regarding the benefit in association with conditions for exchange with the decarbonization points; a decarbonization point granting unit that grants the decarbonization points based on the decarbonization amount acquired as information from the user terminal; and an exchange contract execution unit that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization points and the benefit. Support system.

4. The decarbonization amount calculation unit calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or bicycle, the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance, and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The support system according to claim 3.

5. A support system that supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a carbon-free society by mediating an exchange contract between decarbonization points based on the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by the user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles and rewards provided by clients, a user terminal which is carried by a user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and which functions as a travel speed calculation unit which calculates the user's travel speed, a travel means determination unit which determines whether the user's travel means is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, a travel distance calculation unit which calculates the user's travel distance, and a decarbonization amount calculation unit which calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's travel means is walking or cycling, the user's travel is along a roadway according to a map, and the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined period of time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance; A management server capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the user terminal; The management server includes: A storage unit that stores information regarding the benefit in association with conditions for exchange with the decarbonization points; a decarbonization point granting unit that grants the decarbonization points based on the decarbonization amount acquired as information from the user terminal; and an exchange contract execution unit that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization points and the benefit. Support system.

6. The carbon-reduction amount calculation unit calculates the carbon-reduction amount based on the travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling, the user's travel is along a roadway according to a map, the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance, and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The support system according to claim 5.

7. A support system that supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a carbon-free society by mediating an exchange contract between the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles and benefits provided by the client, a user terminal that is carried by a user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and that functions as a travel speed calculation unit that calculates the user's travel speed, a travel means determination unit that determines whether the user's travel means is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, a travel distance calculation unit that calculates the user's travel distance, and a decarbonization amount calculation unit that calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's travel means is walking or cycling and the user's movement is along a roadway according to a map; A management server capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the user terminal; The management server includes: A storage unit that stores information about the benefit in association with a condition for exchange with the carbon dioxide reduction amount; and an exchange contract execution unit that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization amount and the benefit. Support system.

8. The carbon-reduction amount calculation unit calculates the carbon-reduction amount based on the travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling, the user's travel is along a roadway according to a map, and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The support system according to claim 7.

9. A support system that supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a carbon-free society by mediating an exchange contract between the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles and benefits provided by the client, a user terminal which is carried by a user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and which functions as a travel speed calculation unit which calculates the user's travel speed, a travel means determination unit which determines whether the user's travel means is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, a travel distance calculation unit which calculates the user's travel distance, and a decarbonization amount calculation unit which calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's travel means is walking or cycling and the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined period of time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance; A management server capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the user terminal; The management server includes: A storage unit that stores information about the benefit in association with a condition for exchange with the carbon dioxide reduction amount; and an exchange contract execution unit that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization amount and the benefit. Support system.

10. The decarbonization amount calculation unit calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or bicycle, the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance, and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The support system according to claim 9.

11. A support system that supports the maintenance of the health of each user and the realization of a carbon-free society by mediating an exchange contract between the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the user by refraining from using automobiles and motorcycles and benefits provided by the client, a user terminal which is carried by a user and is capable of inputting, outputting, and transmitting information, and which functions as a travel speed calculation unit which calculates the user's travel speed, a travel means determination unit which determines whether the user's travel means is walking or cycling based on the travel speed, a travel distance calculation unit which calculates the user's travel distance, and a decarbonization amount calculation unit which calculates the decarbonization amount based on the travel distance when the user's travel means is walking or cycling, the user's travel is along a roadway according to a map, and the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined period of time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance; A management server capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the user terminal; The management server includes: A storage unit that stores information about the benefit in association with a condition for exchange with the carbon dioxide reduction amount; and an exchange contract execution unit that executes an exchange contract between the decarbonization amount and the benefit. Support system.

12. The carbon-reduction amount calculation unit calculates the carbon-reduction amount based on the travel distance when the user's means of transportation is either walking or cycling, the user's travel is along a roadway according to a map, the user remains within a predetermined range for a predetermined time or more at a destination corresponding to an end point of the travel distance, and the travel distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The support system according to claim 11.