Information processing method, computer program, information processing device, and information processing system

Abstract

Provided is an information processing method comprising, by a first computer, receiving identification data related to purchase of a new battery sold through an electronic commerce and a collection request for an old battery to be replaced with the new battery, and outputting a collection instruction for the old battery on the basis of the data of the collection request.

Description

Information processing method, computer program, information processing device, and information processing system

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing method, a computer program, an information processing device, and an information processing system that promote the collection of parts such as batteries purchased through e-commerce and contribute to the sustainability of energy storage elements.

[0002] Users can purchase vehicle parts such as batteries and tires via e-commerce. However, the recovery rate of vehicle parts purchased via e-commerce is currently lower than when they are replaced in a maintenance workshop.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a method for determining the deterioration state of a secondary battery in an electronic device (portable personal computer) that is equipped with a communication device and a secondary battery online, and for realizing replacement and recovery of the secondary battery in the electronic device.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-056898

[0005] It is difficult to automatically promote the replacement or collection of batteries installed in vehicles unless the vehicle is configured to constantly notify its status online. Collection is easy if the replacement is limited to a maintenance shop that performs regular inspections, but when the purchaser replaces a battery sold through e-commerce, it is often unclear how to collect the replaced battery. Therefore, there is a need to improve the collection rate of batteries sold through e-commerce.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide an information processing method, computer program, information processing device, and information processing system that promote the collection of parts such as batteries purchased through e-commerce.

[0007] In one embodiment of the information processing method of the present disclosure, a first computer receives identification data regarding the purchase of a new battery sold through electronic commerce and a request for collection of an old battery to be replaced with the new battery, and outputs an instruction to collect the old battery based on the data in the collection request.

[0008] 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery information processing system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of an information processing device. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of a business operator terminal device. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of a purchaser terminal device. FIG. 5 shows an example of information obtained from a medium. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure in the battery information processing system. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a collection application screen. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of a battery DB. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a collection processing procedure in the battery information processing system. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a collection processing procedure in the battery information processing system. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a confirmation process of an information processing device. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the aggregation results of a sales list.

[0009] (1) An information processing method in which a first computer receives identification data regarding the purchase of a new battery sold through electronic commerce and an application for collection of an old battery to be replaced with the new battery, and outputs an instruction to collect the old battery based on the data in the collection application.

[0010] The battery according to this embodiment may be a lithium ion battery or a lead battery, but is not limited to these and may be other secondary batteries, primary batteries, or capacitors.

[0011] When vehicle parts such as batteries are sold through e-commerce, the recovery rate of old batteries is lower than when they are replaced at a maintenance shop, etc. The recovery of vehicle parts sold through e-commerce requires costs, and can only be achieved through collaboration between multiple businesses, such as manufacturers, sellers, delivery businesses, and recovery businesses, and the purchasers (users).

[0012] With the above configuration, it is possible to easily request the collection of old batteries to be exchanged for new batteries sold through electronic commerce, making it easier for users to participate in the battery collection cycle and expected to improve the collection rate. The collection request can be made not only by users but also by manufacturers and retailers.

[0013] (2) In the information processing method of (1) above, the collection instruction is output to a collection company, a manufacturer of the new battery, or a seller in the electronic commerce.

[0014] With the above configuration, the collection instruction for the old battery may be output directly to the collection company, or may be output once to the manufacturer and then delivered to the collection company or delivery company. The collection instruction may also be output once to the seller of the new battery purchased in place of the old battery to be collected and then delivered to the collection company or delivery company.

[0015] (3) In the information processing method of (1) or (2) above, the first computer may receive a collection notification specifying identification data from a collection company, and store data indicating that the product has been collected in association with the identification data.

[0016] With the above configuration, whether or not the old battery corresponding to the new battery has been collected can be stored in the identification data relating to the purchase of the new battery, and can be used later.

[0017] (4) In any one of the information processing methods (1) to (3) above, the first computer may extract, from among the multiple identification data, identification data that is not associated with data indicating that the battery has been collected, even though a collection application has been accepted, and re-output a battery collection instruction based on the extracted identification data.

[0018] With the above configuration, if an instruction to collect an old battery corresponding to a new battery has been output but the old battery has not been collected, the collection is urged again, thereby promoting collection.

[0019] (5) In any one of the information processing methods (1) to (4) above, the first computer compiles and outputs data indicating that the items have been collected and data indicating that the items have not been collected, which are associated with each of the multiple identification data.

[0020] With the above configuration, data on whether the old battery corresponding to the new battery has been collected or not is added to the identification data on the purchase of the new battery. By statistically processing whether the old battery has been collected or not, it is possible to evaluate the contribution to the collection of the old battery.

[0021] (6) In any one of the information processing methods (1) to (5) above, the first computer may output a notification to the purchaser terminal device of the purchaser or the business terminal device of another business encouraging the purchaser to apply for the collection of the old battery based on the purchase date of the new battery.

[0022] With the above configuration, data on the purchase date of a new battery is associated with data on whether the old battery corresponding to that new battery has been collected. If it is stored that the old battery has not been collected even though some time has passed since the purchase, a collection urging is again given, and collection is promoted.

[0023] (7) In any one of the information processing methods (1) to (6) above, the identification data may be attached to a packaging material in which the battery is packed, or may be contained in the packaging material.

[0024] With the above configuration, the identification data attached to or contained in the packaging material of the battery is easy for the purchaser to recognize and can be easily operated.

[0025] (8) In the information processing methods (1) to (6) above, the identification data may be attached to a second packaging material in which a battery already packed in a first packaging material by a manufacturer is packed together with the first packaging material, or may be contained within the second packaging material.

[0026] With the above configuration, the identification data attached to or contained in the second packaging that further packs the battery packaging is easy for the purchaser to recognize and operate. The second packaging can also be used when the battery is collected, eliminating the need for the user to prepare new packaging for collection, and simplifying the collection procedure.

[0027] (9) When the computer program reads identification data attached to or contained in the packaging material in which a new battery sold through electronic commerce is packed, the computer program causes the second computer to display a reception screen for a collection application for the old battery to be replaced with the new battery, and executes a process to send a collection application including the data required for the collection application received on the reception screen and the identification data.

[0028] (10) In the computer program of (9) above, the reception screen may display contact information of the collection destination required for the collection application.

[0029] (11) In the computer program of (9) or (10) above, the data required for the collection request may include the user's address or location data of the computer.

[0030] (12) The information processing device includes a processing unit that receives identification data identifying the purchase of a new battery sold through electronic commerce, receives a request for collection of an old battery to be replaced with the new battery, stores the received collection request data in association with the identification data, and outputs a collection instruction for the old battery based on the collection request data.

[0031] (13) An information processing system includes a purchaser terminal device of a purchaser of a new battery sold through electronic commerce, and an information processing device communicatively connected to the purchaser terminal device, wherein the information processing device receives identification data corresponding to the purchased new battery from the purchaser terminal device, receives a request for collection of the old battery to be replaced with the new battery, stores the received collection request data in association with the identification data, and outputs a collection instruction for the old battery to a business that collects the old battery based on the collection request data.

[0032] The present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof.

[0033] 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery information processing system 100. The battery information processing system 100 is a system that sells new batteries 4 via electronic commerce and promotes and supports the appropriate collection of old batteries 4. In the following description, the battery 4 is assumed to be a lead-acid battery used as an auxiliary power source for a vehicle.

[0034] The battery 4 manufactured by the manufacturer is packed in a first packaging material 41 and shipped to a sales company (retailer). At this time, the manufacturer also ships a second packaging material 42 for further packaging the new battery 4 packed in the first packaging material 41 and a medium 43 to be included in the packaging to the sales company.

[0035] In response to an order placed through the e-commerce system, the sales company packs the battery 4, still packed in the first packaging material 41, and a medium 43 containing the identification data (serial number) into the second packaging material 42 and ships them to the user who placed the order.

[0036] The user receives the second packaging material 42 containing the new battery 4 delivered by the delivery company. The second packaging material 42 contains the first packaging material 41 in which the new battery 4 is packed, and a medium 43 on which the identification data is printed or stored. The user removes the new battery 4 and the medium 43 from the first packaging material 41 and installs the new battery 4 in the vehicle.

[0037] In this case, the old battery 4 that was used in the vehicle remains in the user's possession. It is impossible to dispose of the old battery 4 as municipal waste, and users who purchase the battery 4 through e-commerce are often confused about how to handle the old battery 4. When a user receives the battery 4 purchased through e-commerce from a delivery company, it is extremely difficult for the user to have the delivery company take back the old battery 4. As a result, while the number of batteries 4 sold through e-commerce is increasing, there is a problem that the collection of old batteries 4 is not progressing. Users who install and replace the battery 4 themselves must separately request collection from the delivery company after completing the replacement work, and it is desirable to simplify this process.

[0038] First, in the battery information processing system 100 of the present disclosure, used old batteries 4 can be collected by a collection company by storing them in the first packaging material 41 and the second packaging material 42 that new batteries 4 were stored in. The old batteries 4 collected by the collection company are stored in a collection warehouse and then delivered to a refining company for reuse. The old batteries 4 are refined by the refining company into materials for new batteries 4, thereby realizing recycling.

[0039] Secondly, the battery information processing system 100 of the present disclosure executes information processing to promote the collection of batteries 4 sold through e-commerce via collection businesses. The battery information processing system 100 enables users to submit collection requests to collection businesses with simple operations through information processing. By utilizing a database that records collection, the motivation for collection is improved for businesses, including sales businesses and collection businesses, and users, and collection is promoted.

[0040] The following provides a detailed description of the configuration and processing of a battery information processing system 100 that simplifies the collection application process and smoothly realizes the collection of old batteries 4. The battery information processing system 100 includes an information processing device 1 (first computer), a business operator terminal device 2, and a purchaser terminal device 3. The information processing device 1, the business operator terminal device 2, and the purchaser terminal device 3 (second computer) can transmit and receive data to and from each other via a network N.

[0041] The information processing device 1 is managed by a manufacturer of the battery 4. The information processing device 1 transmits and receives data to and from each of the business operator terminal devices 2 managed by each business operator. The business operators include manufacturers of new batteries 4, sellers of new batteries 4, delivery companies that deliver batteries 4 from the sellers to users, and collection companies that collect old batteries 4. Each business operator terminal device 2 is distinguished by an account granted to each business operator. The business operator terminal device 2 can access data from the information processing device 1 using access rights based on the account issued to each business operator. The purchaser terminal device 3 is a terminal used by a user who is a purchaser of the battery 4.

[0042] The network N includes a network N1 which is a manufacturer's local network or a dedicated line, and may further include a public communication network N2, which is the so-called Internet, and a carrier network N3.

[0043] A distributor that legitimately sells batteries 4 manufactured by a manufacturer through e-commerce acquires the above-mentioned medium 43 from the manufacturer and either affixes it to the second packaging material 42 or simply encloses it in the second packaging material 42 before delivering the medium 43 to the user. In the battery information processing system 100 that promotes the collection of batteries 4 according to the present disclosure, the medium 43 is printed with instructions, messages, advertisements, etc. that promote the collection of old batteries 4, or stores access data to web-based data that provides such information. The user refers to the instructions, packs the old battery 4 in the first packaging material 41 that contained the new battery 4, marks it as an old battery, and packs the first packaging material 41 and the first packaging material 41 in the second packaging material 42. The user can request collection by phone or web-based, based on the access data printed or stored on the medium.

[0044] 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the information processing device 1. The information processing device 1 is a server device capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from the business operator terminal device 2 and the purchaser terminal device 3 via a network N. The information processing device 1 is a server computer, or a laptop or desktop personal computer. In the following description, the information processing device 1 is described as being configured by a single server computer, but it may also be configured in such a way that multiple server computers are connected to each other via a network for communication and distributed processing.

[0045] The information processing device 1 includes a processing unit 10, a storage unit 11, and a communication unit 12. The processing unit 10 is a processor that uses a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and / or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Based on an information processing program P1 stored in the storage unit 11, the processing unit 10 collects purchase information and recycling information of the battery 4 and executes information provision processing based on the collected information.

[0046] The storage unit 11 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk, flash memory, or SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 11 stores data referenced by the processing unit 10. The storage unit 11 stores an information processing program P1. The information processing program P1 may be an information processing program P9 stored in the storage medium 9 that is read by the processing unit 10 and copied to the storage unit 11. The information processing program P1 may also be downloaded from another program server device via the communication unit 12 and stored therein.

[0047] The storage unit 11 stores battery data including purchase information and recovery status of each battery 4 in a battery DB 111 in association with identification data of the battery 4. The battery DB 111 may be stored in an external storage device and may be readable and writable by the processing unit 10.

[0048] The communication unit 12 realizes communication with the business operator terminal device 2 and the purchaser terminal device 3 via the network N. Specifically, the communication unit 12 is a network card. The communication unit 12 may be a wireless communication module that connects to a carrier network, or may be a wireless communication module for Wi-Fi. The processing unit 10 can send and receive data between the business operator terminal device 2 and the purchaser terminal device 3 via the communication unit 12.

[0049] 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the business operator terminal device 2. The business operator terminal device 2 includes a communication unit and a user interface. The business operator terminal device 2 is, for example, a laptop or desktop personal computer. The business operator terminal device 2 may also be a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

[0050] The operator terminal device 2 includes a processing unit 20 , a storage unit 21 , a communication unit 22 , a display unit 23 , and an operation unit 24 .

[0051] The processing unit 20 is a processor that uses a CPU and / or a GPU. The processing unit 20 executes various application programs stored in the storage unit 21. The various application programs include a business operator terminal program P2. The processing unit 20 transmits and receives data to and from the information processing device 1 based on the business operator terminal program P2. The business operator terminal program P2 may be a web browser program.

[0052] The storage unit 21 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk, flash memory, or SSD. The storage unit 21 stores data referenced by the processing unit 20. The storage unit 21 stores various application programs including the operator terminal program P2. The operator terminal program P2 may be a program that the processing unit 10 reads out from the storage medium 8 an operator terminal program P8 and copies to the storage unit 21. The operator terminal program P2 may be a program that has been downloaded from a program server device via the communication unit 22 and stored therein.

[0053] The communication unit 22 realizes communication with the information processing device 1 via the network N. The communication unit 22 is, for example, a network card. The communication unit 22 may be a wireless communication device that connects to a carrier network or a wireless communication device for Wi-Fi. The processing unit 20 can send and receive data to and from the information processing device 1 via the communication unit 22.

[0054] The display unit 23 is a display such as a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 23 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) of various application programs. The processing unit 20 displays data provided from the information processing device 1 on the display unit 23 based on the carrier terminal program P2.

[0055] The operation unit 24 is a user interface such as a keyboard and a mouse that can input and output data to and from the processing unit 20. The operation unit 24 may be a voice input unit. The processing unit 20 receives input from the user via the operation unit 24.

[0056] 4 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the purchaser terminal device 3. The purchaser terminal device 3 includes a communication unit and a user interface. The purchaser terminal device 3 is a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The purchaser terminal device 3 may also be a laptop or desktop personal computer. The purchaser terminal device 3 includes a processing unit 30, a memory unit 31, a communication unit 32, a display unit 33, an operation unit 34, and an acquisition unit 35.

[0057] The processing unit 30 is a processor that uses a CPU and / or a GPU. The processing unit 30 executes various application programs stored in the storage unit 31. The various application programs include a purchaser terminal program P3. The processing unit 30 transmits and receives data to and from the information processing device 1 based on the purchaser terminal program P3.

[0058] The storage unit 31 uses a non-volatile memory such as flash memory or an SSD. The storage unit 31 stores data referenced by the processing unit 30. The storage unit 31 stores various application programs including the purchaser terminal program P3. The purchaser terminal program P3 may be a purchaser terminal program P7 stored in the storage medium 7 that has been read by the processing unit 10 and copied to the storage unit 31. The purchaser terminal program P3 may also be a program downloaded from a program server device via the communication unit 32 and stored therein.

[0059] The communication unit 32 realizes communication with the information processing device 1 via a network N including the Internet or a carrier network. Specifically, the communication unit 32 may be a wireless communication device that connects to a carrier network or a wireless communication device for Wi-Fi. The processing unit 30 can send and receive data to and from the information processing device 1 via the communication unit 32.

[0060] The display unit 33 is a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display unit 33 displays the GUIs of various application programs. The display unit 33 is a display with a built-in touch panel. The processing unit 30 displays on the display unit 33 a screen related to troubleshooting of the battery 4, which is provided from the information processing device 1 based on the purchaser terminal program P3.

[0061] The operation unit 34 is a user interface capable of inputting and outputting data to and from the processing unit 30, and is a touch panel built into the display unit 33. The operation unit 34 may be a physical button or a voice input unit.

[0062] The acquisition unit 35 is a device for acquiring identification data of the battery 4 from a medium 43 packed in the second packaging material 42. The acquisition unit 35 is, for example, a camera, and captures and acquires characters, images, or two-dimensional codes of the identification data printed on a medium 43, such as a sticker, paper, or card, that is attached to or packed in the second packaging material 42. The acquisition unit 35 may be, for example, a short-range wireless communication device, and acquires the identification data via communication from the medium 43, which is a storage medium packed in the second packaging material 42.

[0063] The process up to the collection of an old battery 4 by the battery information processing system 100 configured as described above will be described below. FIG. 5 shows an example of information obtained from the medium 43. FIG. 5 shows the content of information printed on the card-like medium 43 included with a new battery 4 when it is purchased. Printed on the medium 43 are identification data (serial number) assigned to the medium 43 and a two-dimensional code converted from the URL of a web page for receiving services when the battery is purchased from a legitimate sales business authorized by the manufacturer. A telephone number for contacting the business that receives the above-mentioned services is also printed on the medium 43.

[0064] The medium 43 also includes information for requesting a recycling company to collect the old battery 4 that was used before the included new battery 4. In the example of Figure 5, it is stated that the information for requesting the recycling company is included on a web page for receiving the above-mentioned service. In the example of Figure 5, a dedicated phone number for requesting collection is printed.

[0065] 5 is read from the medium 43 by the acquisition unit 35 of the purchaser terminal device 3 and included in the screen displayed on the display unit 33. The two-dimensional code is replaced with linked text or a button.

[0066] When a user uses the purchaser terminal device 3 to read a two-dimensional code from the medium 43 with the acquisition unit 35 or selects a link on the screen, access from the purchaser terminal device 3 to a web page provided by the information processing device 1 is initiated, and information processing by the information processing device 1 is started. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure in the battery information processing system 100.

[0067] The processing unit 30 of the purchaser terminal device 3 acquires the URL of the web page provided by the information processing device 1 from the medium 43 using the acquisition unit 35 (step S301). The processing unit 30 displays the web page on the display unit 33 based on the acquired URL (step S302).

[0068] On the displayed web page, the processing unit 30 accepts input of the identification data (serial number) printed on or stored on the medium 43 and data on the new battery 4 purchased in place of the battery 4 to be collected (step S303). In step S303, the processing unit 30 accepts purchase data such as the purchase date of the new battery 4, battery identification data unique to the battery 4 attached to the battery 4 itself, and an order number (transaction identification data) issued by the sales company or sales platform, along with the identification data.

[0069] The processing unit 30 transmits the received identification data and data related to the new battery 4 to the information processing device 1 (step S304). In step S304, the processing unit 30 may also transmit the identification data of the purchaser terminal device 3 (user identification data).

[0070] The processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the identification data and data related to the battery 4 transmitted from the purchaser terminal device 3 (step S101) and stores the received data in the battery DB 111 (step S102). In step S102, data related to the new battery 4 is stored in the battery sales table of the battery DB 111 in association with the assigned identification data for each sale of a new battery 4. The data related to the new battery 4 is the data received in step S304, such as the purchase date and order number. A record in the battery sales table for a sold new battery 4 includes the order number. The order number is stored in the e-commerce platform so that it is possible to identify the user from whom the purchase request was made, when the purchase was made, the seller, the delivery company via which delivery company, and the delivery vehicle in which the battery was delivered. By registering the order number, it is possible to identify the purchaser of the new battery 4, the purchase date, the seller of the new battery 4, and the delivery company of the battery 4. The record in the battery sales table may also include battery identification data for the battery 4 itself.

[0071] The processing unit 10 notifies the completion of storing the above-mentioned data in the battery DB 111, and transmits screen data including an interface for requesting the collection of the old battery 4 from the communication unit 12 to the purchaser terminal device 3 (step S103).

[0072] From then on, the new battery 4 packed in the second packaging material 42 bearing the target identification data (serial number) becomes eligible for other services such as leakage compensation and inspection services provided by the battery information processing system 100.

[0073] The processing unit 30 of the purchaser terminal device 3 receives the screen data (step S305), and displays the screen on the display unit 33 based on the received data (step S306).

[0074] The processing unit 30 receives a request for collection of the old battery 4 on the screen (step S307), and receives data such as collection destination data and collection date and time (step S308). In step S308, the processing unit 30 may also receive data such as the unique serial number and product number of the old battery 4. In step S308, the processing unit 30 may also receive location data of the current location detected by a location detection device built into the purchaser terminal device 3. Specifically, the processing unit 30 may receive a designation of the service store or the like closest to the location where the collection request procedure is being performed.

[0075] The processing unit 30 transmits a collection application including the data accepted in step S308 to the information processing device 1 (step S309).

[0076] The processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the recycling request (step S104) and stores data indicating "recycling request made" in the recycling request table in association with the identification data stored in step S102 (step S105). The processing unit 10 stores the records of the recycling request table in the battery DB 111 (step S106). In step S106, the processing unit 10 assigns application identification data to each recycling request and creates a record that includes, in association with the application identification data, identification data of the medium 43 that was packed in the second packaging material 42 of the corresponding new battery 4, the address and name of the recycling recipient, the scheduled recycling date, the recycling implementation date, etc.

[0077] Based on the collection application received in step S104, the processing unit 10 outputs a collection instruction to the business terminal device 2 of the collection business (step S107) and notifies the purchaser terminal device 3 of the completion of the application (step S108). In step S107, the collection instruction is not limited to being output to the business terminal device 2 of the collection business, but may also be output to the manufacturer or seller. If there are multiple collection businesses to which the collection instruction can be output, the processing unit 10 may automatically determine the collection instruction based on the address, date, time, etc. of the collection application, or the collection instruction may be selected by the manufacturer or seller. The collection application in step S107 may be output in the form of an email to the output destination, a message to an account in the battery information processing system 100, or a correspondence between the collection business account and collection identification data of a record in the collection application table. The collection business account may also be stored in the collection application table.

[0078] The processing unit 30 of the purchaser terminal device 3 receives the notification of application completion (step S310), displays it on the display unit (step S311), and ends the process.

[0079] If the user of the purchaser terminal device 3 does not apply for the collection of the old battery 4 on the screen displayed in step S306, the processing from step S307 onwards is not executed. In step S306, the processing unit 30 may accept input of the reason for not applying for collection. This can avoid the notification to encourage the collection application, which will be described later, being sent if the old battery 4 has already been collected through another route.

[0080] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a collection request screen 331. The screen 331 includes an input screen 332 for identification data (serial number). The identification data may be automatically input into the input screen 332 by reading it from the medium 43 shown in FIG. 5 . A read button may be provided on the input screen 332, and when the read button is selected, the acquisition unit 35 (camera) may be activated to automatically read the identification data from the medium 43. The screen 331 includes an input screen 333 for collection destination data (contact information) and an input screen 334 for a desired collection date and time. The input screen 333 includes input fields and selection buttons for the name, address, telephone number, email address, etc. The input screen 334 also includes an input field and selection list for the desired date and time. The screen 331 includes an application button 335. When the application button 335 is selected and operated by the operation unit 34, the processing unit 30 accepts the application (S307).

[0081] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the battery DB 111. When a request is made on the screen 331 shown in FIG. 7, the information processing device 1 adds information about the recycling request to the information associated with the identification data. FIG. 8 shows a sold battery table 1111 and a recycling request table 1110 stored in the battery DB 111. The sold battery table 1111 shown in the upper part of FIG. 8 indicates that, for a new battery 4, related data such as the purchase date and data on whether a recycling request has been made are stored in association with the identification data in step S102. When a recycling request is made from the purchaser terminal device 3 (S307), the "Recycling request made" field is marked as "Yes," and a record in the recycling request table 1110 shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 is stored.

[0082] FIG. 8 shows an example of a recycling request table 1110. The recycling request table 1110 includes, in association with request identification data, identification data of the medium 43, the address and name of the recycling recipient, the scheduled recycling date, the recycling implementation date, and the business identification data of the recycling business. Using the identification data of the medium 43 as a key, the processing unit 10 can cross-reference, within the battery DB 111, the records of the recycling request table 1110 and the records of the sold battery table 1111 for the new battery 4 purchased as a replacement. In the recycling request table 1110 shown in the example of FIG. 8, the recycling implementation date is blank for all records. Using the identification data as a key, the processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 can refer to the recycling request table 1110 to determine whether a recycling request has been made, and if a recycling request has been made, whether recycling has been implemented thereafter.

[0083] The following describes the processing that occurs after the collection application is output to the business operator terminal device 2 of the collection business operator. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the collection processing procedure in the battery information processing system 100. When the collection business operator starts up the business operator terminal device 2 and logs in to the battery information processing system 100 with his / her own account, the information processing device 1 executes the following processing.

[0084] The processing unit 20 of the business operator terminal device 2 acquires the collection application addressed to itself from the information processing device 1 (step S201). In step S201, the processing unit 20 may acquire the application by receiving an email from the information processing device 1 or a message to an account, or may acquire a record associated with its own account from the collection application table.

[0085] The processing unit 20 displays the collection request on the display unit 23 (step S202). In step S202, the processing unit 20 may print out the contents of the collection request (collection destination, date and time, etc.).

[0086] The collection company arranges collection based on the collection application, determines a scheduled collection date, and notifies the information processing device 1 (step S203).

[0087] The processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the notification of the scheduled collection date (step S121), notifies the user (step S122), stores and updates the scheduled collection date in the collection application table 1110 (step S123), and temporarily ends the process.

[0088] The processing of steps S203 and S123 may be executed multiple times between the business operator terminal device 2 and the purchaser terminal device 3 via the information processing device 1. When the collection business operator collects the old battery 4 on the determined scheduled collection date, the following processing is executed. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the collection processing procedure in the battery information processing system 100. When the collection business operator who collected the old battery 4 from the user starts the business operator terminal device 2 and logs in to the battery information processing system 100 with his or her own account, the information processing device 1 executes the following processing.

[0089] The processing unit 20 of the business operator terminal device 2 acquires records of incomplete collection applications for the corresponding collection business from the collection application table 1110 from the information processing device 1 (step S221). Records of incomplete collection applications are, for example, records with a blank collection implementation date. The processing unit 20 displays a list of the acquired records (step S222) and accepts the selection of records for which collection has been implemented (step S223). The processing unit 20 accepts input of data indicating that collection has been implemented for the selected records (step S224). In step S224, the processing unit 20 accepts input of the collection implementation date and collection confirmation data (signature, etc.) from the user on the collection implementation registration screen. The processing unit 20 specifies key identification data included in the record and transmits data indicating that collection has been completed to the information processing device 1 (step S225). In step S225, the data indicating the implementation of collection includes the collection implementation date and collection confirmation data.

[0090] The processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the data indicating that the battery has been disposed of (step S131), and stores and updates the disposal date in the battery DB 111 including the disposal application table 1110 based on the received data (step S132), thereby ending the process. In step S132, the processing unit 10 may perform processing to store the disposal date only after verifying that disposal has actually been carried out based on data such as a signature or an electronic certificate included in the data indicating the disposal.

[0091] As a result, the implementation date and time column in the recycling application table 1110 shown in Fig. 8 is filled in, and the completion is confirmed. When the completion is confirmed and the recycling of the battery 4 is completed, the processing unit 10 may provide an incentive for services related to the new battery 4 that is replaced. Specifically, a user who purchases a new battery 4, uses the first packaging material 41 and second packaging material 42 used at the time, and submits a recycling application from the medium 43 may be given points that can be used at the e-commerce platform where the new battery 4 was purchased. In addition, an incentive may be provided for a warranty service for the new battery 4.

[0092] This process simplifies the collection application process and stores the fact that collection has been carried out reliably, thereby preventing illegal dumping of batteries and helping to promote recycling.

[0093] By storing data on new batteries 4 from the medium 43 and storing whether or not a recycling application has been made, the information processing device 1 can check whether or not recycling has been carried out and whether or not a recycling application has been made thereafter for a battery 4 for which no recycling application has been made, thereby promoting recycling.

[0094] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a confirmation process of the information processing device 1. The information processing device 1 executes the following process periodically or when an inquiry is received from each business operator.

[0095] The processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 compiles a sales list of new batteries 4 for each seller together with the implementation status of the battery recycling based on the sold battery table 1111 and the recycling request table 1110 in the battery DB 111 (step S141). In step S141, the processing unit 10 identifies the seller from the order number associated with the identification data stored in the battery DB 111, and sorts the records by seller. For the sorted records for which a recycling request has been made, the processing unit 10 references the identification data in the recycling request table 1110 and associates the records with data on whether recycling has been implemented or not.

[0096] The processing unit 10 outputs the collected sales list to each sales company (step S142).

[0097] The processing unit 10 extracts records for which there is no collection application from the collected sales list (step S143). In step S143, if a reason for the "no" is registered, the processing unit 10 excludes the record from the extraction target. The processing unit 10 extracts records for which a predetermined period has elapsed since the purchase date included in the extracted records (step S144). The predetermined period is, for example, three days, one week, two weeks, etc. from the purchase date.

[0098] The processing unit 10 identifies the orderer from the order number of the record extracted in step S144 (step S145). The processing unit 10 then sends a notification to the identified user's purchaser terminal device 3 urging them to apply for collection (step S146). The notification may be sent via email or a message available in the purchaser terminal program P3. The notification may be sent to the user's account on the e-commerce platform via the seller based on the order number. In response to the notification in step S146, the notification may include a link to screen data that executes the processing from step S305 onward shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, so that the user can apply.

[0099] The processing unit 10 extracts records with a blank collection date from the collected sales list among records with a collection application "Yes" (step S147). The processing unit 10 extracts records from the collection application table 1110 corresponding to the extracted records (step S148), re-outputs a collection instruction to the corresponding collection business operator (step S149), and ends the process.

[0100] By outputting a sales list including the implementation status of collection to each sales company in step S142 and re-outputting a collection instruction in step S149, the collection company can proceed with the collection of uncollected old batteries 4. By notifying the user in step S146, it is expected that old batteries 4 will not remain in the user's possession. Regarding the notification in step S146, multiple predetermined periods may be prepared, and the frequency may be changed, such as notification every week until one month has passed, and then once a month until six months have passed.

[0101] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the content of the tabulated results of the sales list. As shown in FIG. 12, the sales list is a list of purchase dates (registration dates) and collection statuses stored for each sales company in association with identification data attached to the medium 43. The information processing device 1 may calculate a collection rate from the collection status for the list and output the calculated rate as a report. The information processing device 1 may also calculate and output a collection rate for each delivery destination region of new batteries 4 that can be referenced by order number. The tabulated results are expected to be useful for manufacturers, sales companies, collection companies, or delivery companies in considering measures to improve collection rates and formulating collection promotion plans.

[0102] The battery information processing system 100 shown in this embodiment allows a user to apply for collection by selecting an application button based on identification data that is automatically input online using the medium 43 and the purchaser terminal device 3. This reduces the possibility of users having difficulty in handling old batteries 4. The battery information processing system 100 can easily incorporate a system that provides incentives when a collection application is made and collection is carried out, thereby promoting collection.

[0103] In the above-described battery information processing system 100, the object for which the information processing device 1 supports the application for collection is a lead-acid battery used as an auxiliary power source for a vehicle. However, the object for collection may be a storage element other than a lead-acid battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, or other vehicle parts.

[0104] The embodiments disclosed above are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0105] 1 Information processing device (first computer) 10 Processing unit 11 Storage unit 2 Business operator terminal device 20 Processing unit 23 Display unit 3 Purchaser terminal device (second computer) 30 Processing unit 31 Storage unit 33 Display unit 4 Battery 41 First packaging material 42 Second packaging material 43 Medium 7, 8, 9 Storage medium P1, P9 Information processing program P2, P8 Business operator terminal program P3, P7 Purchaser terminal program

Claims

1. An information processing method in which a first computer receives identification data relating to the purchase of a new battery sold through electronic commerce and an application for collection of an old battery to be exchanged for the new battery, and outputs an instruction to collect the old battery based on the data of the collection application.

2. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the recycling instruction is output to a recycling company, a manufacturer of the new battery, or a seller in electronic commerce.

3. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the first computer receives a collection notification specifying identification data from a collection business, and stores data indicating collection in association with the identification data.

4. The information processing method according to claim 3, wherein the first computer extracts, from among the multiple identification data, identification data for which the data indicating that the battery has been recycled has not been associated even though a recycling application has been accepted, and re-outputs a battery recycling instruction based on the extracted identification data.

5. The information processing method according to claim 3, wherein the first computer compiles and outputs data indicating that the item has been collected and data indicating that the item has not been collected, which are associated with each of the multiple identification data.

6. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the first computer outputs a notification encouraging a buyer to apply for collection of the old battery based on the purchase date of the new battery to a buyer terminal device of a buyer or a business terminal device of another business.

7. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the identification data is attached to a packaging material in which the battery is packed, or is contained in the packaging material.

8. An information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the identification data is attached to a second packaging material in which a battery already packed in a first packaging material by a manufacturer is packed together with the first packaging material, or is contained within the second packaging material.

9. A computer program that causes a second computer to execute a process of, when reading identification data attached to or contained in a packaging material in which a new battery sold through electronic commerce is packed, displaying a reception screen for a collection application for the old battery to be replaced with the new battery, and transmitting a collection application including the data required for the collection application received on the reception screen and the identification data.

10. The computer program according to claim 9, wherein the reception screen displays contact information for the collection destination required for the collection application.

11. A computer program as claimed in claim 9 or 10, wherein the data required for the recovery request includes the user's address or location data of the computer.

12. An information processing device having a processing unit that receives identification data identifying the purchase of a new battery sold through electronic commerce, receives a request for collection of an old battery to be exchanged for the new battery, stores the received collection request data in correspondence with the identification data, and outputs an instruction to collect the old battery based on the collection request data.

13. An information processing system including: a purchaser terminal device of a purchaser of a new battery sold through electronic commerce; and an information processing device communicatively connected to said purchaser terminal device, wherein said information processing device: receives, from said purchaser terminal device, identification data corresponding to the purchased new battery; receives an application for collection of an old battery to be exchanged for the new battery; stores the received collection application data in association with the identification data; and outputs an instruction to collect the old battery to a business that collects the old battery based on the collection application data.