Information processing device, communication device, and communication system

Abstract

An information processing device according to the present disclosure detects the position of a user in response to communication with a communication device. The information processing device executes first processing including authentication processing when the user is located within a first range. The information processing device executes, in accordance with an action of the user, second processing after execution of the first processing.

Description

Information processing device, communication device, and communication system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device, a communication device, and a communication system.

[0002] For example, near field radio communication (NFC) is known as a type of short-range communication. For example, a payment process is one example of a process using NFC. For example, information required for the payment process, such as identification information, is stored in a built-in memory of a communication device (such as an information processing device such as a smartphone or an IC card) that performs short-range communication. The payment process is executed when a user holds (touches) the communication device over a payment terminal.

[0003] The communication distance of NFC is short, ranging from 0 to a few dozen centimeters. Therefore, when a user holds a communication device (equivalent to an NFC tag) over a payment terminal (equivalent to an NFC reader), it is assumed that the user has agreed to the payment.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-168839

[0005] Processing using NFC is not limited to payment processing, but is also used to execute various other processing, such as processing for managing entry and exit to a room, admission management processing using electronic tickets, and processing for enjoying services.

[0006] Furthermore, there are various payment methods, such as credit card payment and payment using electronic money. For example, when using an information processing device such as a smartphone, multiple processes can be performed on a single information processing device. In this case, a user selects a process to be performed using NFC and executes the process by holding the information processing device over an NFC reader / writer.

[0007] In this way, when multiple processes can be selected, it takes time for the user to select a process and for the information processing device to perform the selected process. Therefore, if the user selects a process to be executed at the timing when a process is executed, such as when making a payment or entering or leaving a room, it takes time to complete the process.

[0008] In this case, for example, if there are many users performing a process, the time until the process is completed may become even longer. To avoid this problem, a mechanism that allows users to complete the process more smoothly is required.

[0009] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes an information processing device, a communication device, and a communication system that allow a user to complete a process more smoothly.

[0010] It should be noted that the above problem or object is merely one of multiple problems or objects that can be solved or achieved by multiple embodiments disclosed in this specification.

[0011] An information processing device according to the present disclosure detects a user's location in response to communication with a communication device. When the user is located within a first range, the information processing device executes a first process including an authentication process. After the first process, the information processing device executes a second process in response to a movement of the user.

[0012] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to a proposed technique of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a communication system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a payment terminal according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of information processing according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification by an application according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating an example of a case where an application according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure changes notification intensity. FIG. 7 is a graph illustrating another example of a case where an application according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure changes notification intensity. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a selection screen according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first authentication screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a graph illustrating an example of a threshold used for stay authentication according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a delivery screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a presentation screen presented to a user during payment pre-processing according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of a presentation screen presented to a user during payment pre-processing according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance process according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification intensity for notifying guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of a notification intensity for notifying guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an orientation of an information processing device relative to a payment terminal according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of guidance information according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of guidance information according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of notification intensity for notifying guidance information according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing another example of notification intensity for notifying guidance information according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of guidance information according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of guidance information according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of operation of a communication system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of information processing according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance screen according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the orientation of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance screen according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on an information processing device during a selection process and a guidance process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance process according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to the present disclosure applied to a payment system. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to the present disclosure applied to a ticket gate system. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to the present disclosure applied to a parking system. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to the present disclosure applied to an entry / exit system. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a device, etc.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0014] In this specification and drawings, similar components of the embodiments may be distinguished by adding at least one different alphabet and / or number after the same reference numeral. However, if there is no need to particularly distinguish between the similar components, only the same reference numeral will be used.

[0015] One or more embodiments (including examples, modifications, and application examples) described below can be implemented independently. However, at least a portion of the embodiments described below may be implemented in appropriate combination with at least a portion of another embodiment. These embodiments may include novel features that are different from each other. Therefore, these embodiments may contribute to solving different purposes or problems and may produce different effects from each other.

[0016] <<1. Introduction>> <1-1. Issues> As mentioned above, processes using NFC, such as payment processing and access control processing, are widely performed. NFC is wireless communication between an NFC tag and an NFC reader / writer. The NFC reader / writer reads and writes information from and to the NFC tag, which has a built-in IC chip.

[0017] For example, the NFC reader / writer reads the identification information stored in the NFC tag and uses the read identification information to execute payment processing, entry / exit management processing, etc. The NFC reader / writer writes the results of the processing it has executed, such as the remaining balance after payment and the entry / exit time, to the NFC tag, thereby completing the processing.

[0018] In this embodiment, processing (payment processing, entry / exit management processing, admission management processing, etc.) using identification information stored in an information processing device (for example, in NFC, this corresponds to the device on the NFC tag side) is also described as management processing.

[0019] As mentioned above, NFC has a short communication distance, so when a user holds an NFC tag over an NFC reader / writer, it can be considered that the user has agreed to the execution of a process that requires the user's consent, such as a payment process (consent confirmation has been performed).

[0020] As described above, NFC has a very easy-to-understand user interface. Furthermore, NFC allows for more secure communication due to its short communication distance.

[0021] However, as described above, the upper limit of the communication distance of NFC is short, at several tens of centimeters (generally, about a few centimeters), and it is not easy to change this communication distance to an arbitrary value.

[0022] Therefore, in order to ensure reliable communication between the NFC tag and the NFC reader / writer, there are restrictions on the location where the NFC tag (or antenna) can be installed in an information processing device such as a smartphone, and the shape of the device that has the NFC reader / writer installed.

[0023] In other words, if the upper limit of the communication distance of the information processing device (device equivalent to an NFC tag and an NFC reader / writer) that performs the management process can be changed arbitrarily, the restrictions on the installation position and shape of the information processing device can be reduced.

[0024] Furthermore, with NFC, neither the NFC tag nor the NFC reader / writer (for example, a payment terminal) can detect that the NFC tag is approaching the NFC reader / writer.

[0025] If the information processing devices that execute the management process can detect that the devices are approaching each other, they can perform a confirmation process (e.g., authentication and authorization in the payment process) in advance to execute the management process. By performing such a confirmation process in advance, the information processing devices can complete the payment process in a shorter time.

[0026] Furthermore, for example, when a user can select one of multiple payment methods to make a payment, multiple payment terminals corresponding to the payment methods may be placed around a cash register, etc. In this case, for example, the user may not be able to easily find the payment terminal to touch according to the selected payment method.

[0027] If the user cannot find a payment terminal to touch, the payment process may take longer.

[0028] There is a need for a system that can solve the problems associated with such processing, such as payment processing and access control processing, using NFC communication, and that can execute processing more smoothly.

[0029] <1-2. Overview of Proposed Technology> Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to the proposed technology of the present disclosure. The communication system illustrated in Fig. 1 is a system that executes the above-described management process (corresponding to the second process). The communication system includes an information processing device 100, a payment terminal 200, and a control device 300.

[0030] The information processing device 100 is, for example, a smartphone used by a user. The user operates the information processing device 100 and performs payment processing with the control device 300 via the payment terminal 200 to purchase a product.

[0031] For the sake of simplicity, the following description will be given assuming that the management process is a payment process when purchasing a product. Note that the management process is not limited to payment processing, and may be entry / exit management processing, admission management processing using electronic tickets, etc., as described above.

[0032] The payment terminal 200 is a communication device that communicates with the information processing device 100. The payment terminal 200 performs, for example, UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) communication with the information processing device 100. The payment terminal 200 may also perform, for example, NFC communication with the information processing device 100.

[0033] When performing UWB communication with information processing device 100, payment terminal 200 corresponds to an anchor. When performing NFC communication with information processing device 100, payment terminal 200 corresponds to an NFC reader / writer.

[0034] The control device 300 is a device used to perform payments with a user, such as a POS (Point Of Sale) terminal. The control device 300 controls the payment terminal 200 and communicates with the information processing device 100 via the payment terminal 200, thereby executing payment processing between the control device 300 and the information processing device 100. The control device 300 may communicate with a payment server (not shown), for example, to execute the payment processing.

[0035] For example, the payment amount is determined when a store clerk inputs the price of the product selected by the user into the control device 300. The control device 300 transmits the determined payment amount to the information processing device 100 via UWB communication using the payment terminal 200, for example.

[0036] The user operates the information processing device 100 to select a payment method (for example, credit card payment or electronic money payment), and performs payment processing between the payment terminal 200 and the control device 300. When the payment processing is completed, the user purchases the product.

[0037] The user may also determine the payment amount by inputting the price of the selected product into the information processing device 100. In this case, the user may determine the payment amount by, for example, reading a barcode or an NFC tag with the information processing device 100 or by directly inputting the price of the product into the information processing device 100.

[0038] For example, when the user holds the information processing device 100 over the payment terminal 200, payment processing is performed and the purchase of the product is completed.

[0039] Here, if the user launches an application that performs the payment processing or selects a payment method just before holding the information processing device 100 over the payment terminal 200, i.e., just before executing the payment processing, a waiting time will occur before the payment processing is executed.

[0040] Therefore, the communication system related to the proposed technology of the present disclosure sets zones according to the distance from the payment terminal 200 that communicates with the information processing device 100, and performs processing according to each zone, allowing users to perform payment processing more smoothly.

[0041] In the case of Figure 1, zones Z1 to Z3 are set according to the distance from payment terminal 200. Zone Z1 is an area where the distance from payment terminal 200 is less than D1 (an example of a first distance). Zone Z2 is an area where the distance from payment terminal 200 is equal to or greater than D1 and less than D2 (an example of a second distance). Zone Z3 is an area where the distance from payment terminal 200 is equal to or greater than D2.

[0042] Information processing device 100 detects the location of the user (more specifically, information processing device 100) by, for example, performing UWB communication with payment terminal 200. For example, information processing device 100 detects its own location by receiving a signal transmitted by payment terminal 200.

[0043] If the detected position is within zone Z3, the information processing device 100 does not perform any processing related to the payment process (is inactive).

[0044] If the detected location is within zone Z2 (first range), the information processing device 100 executes pre-processing (an example of first processing) related to the payment process. The pre-processing includes, for example, authentication processing for authenticating the user. The pre-processing may also include processing for selecting a payment method.

[0045] The information processing device 100 executes a payment process (an example of a second process) after executing a pre-process, in accordance with a user's action.

[0046] 1 , when the detected position is within zone Z1 (an example of a second range), information processing device 100 executes a payment process with payment terminal 200. When the above-mentioned distance D1 is several tens of centimeters, when the user holds information processing device 100 over payment terminal 200, information processing device 100 detects that it is located within zone Z1.

[0047] In this way, the communication system according to the proposed technology of the present disclosure performs pre-processing when the user is located in zone Z2 away from the payment terminal 200 (for example, when waiting in line at the cash register).

[0048] This allows the information processing device 100 to perform authentication processing such as identity authentication and selection of a payment method before the user actually makes a payment at the cash register. This allows the user to complete the payment process by simply performing a simple action such as holding the information processing device 100 over the payment terminal 200. In this way, the user can complete the payment process smoothly.

[0049] If the user moves from zone Z2 to zone Z3, the information processing device 100 cancels the pre-processing and the payment processing. This allows the information processing device 100 to avoid performing the pre-processing or the payment processing if the user does not make a payment, for example, if the user has moved near the payment terminal 200.

[0050] Although the user's action that triggers the execution of the payment process is described here as holding the information processing device 100 over the payment terminal 200, the user's action is not limited to this. For example, the payment process may be executed by the user performing a predetermined action, such as tapping on the information processing device 100.

[0051] <<2. First embodiment>> <2-1. Configuration example of communication system> <2-1-1. Overall configuration example of communication system> Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a communication system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication system shown in Fig. 2 includes an information processing device 100, a payment terminal 200, and a control device 300.

[0052] The information processing device 100 is a device that a user holds in his / her hand or wears on his / her body, such as a smartphone or a wearable device such as a smart watch. The user uses the information processing device 100 to execute a payment process (an example of a management process) via the payment terminal 200.

[0053] Information processing device 100 performs UWB communication with payment terminal 200. Information processing device 100 may also perform NFC communication with payment terminal 200. Information processing device 100 may also perform cellular communication with base station 400.

[0054] The payment terminal 200 is connected to the control device 300, for example, by wire or wirelessly (wired in the example of FIG. 2 ). The payment terminal 200 performs UWB communication with the information processing device 100 under control of the control device 300. The payment terminal 200 may also perform NFC communication with the information processing device 100 under control of the control device 300.

[0055] The control device 300, for example, controls the payment terminal 200 and executes information processing such as pre-processing and payment processing between the control device 300 and the information processing device 100. The control device 300 may communicate with a server device such as a payment server (not shown) via a network (not shown).

[0056] The payment terminal 200 and the control device 300 are collectively referred to as a communication device. Note that, although one payment terminal 200 is connected to one control device 300 here, multiple payment terminals 200 may be connected to one control device 300.

[0057] For example, payment terminals 200 corresponding to each payment method (e.g., credit card payment and electronic money payment) may be connected to the control device 300. Alternatively, payment terminals 200 corresponding to each communication method (e.g., UWB communication and NFC communication in FIG. 2) may be connected to the control device 300.

[0058] Furthermore, in FIG. 2, payment terminal 200 and control device 300 are separate devices, but payment terminal 200 and control device 300 may be configured as a single device.

[0059] 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing device 100 shown in FIG. 3 includes a first communication module 111, a first communication control unit 112, a second communication module 121, and a second communication control unit 122. The information processing device 100 also includes a secure element (SE) 130, a third communication unit 140, a storage unit 150, an input / output unit 160, and a control unit 170.

[0060] (First Communication Module 111) First communication module 111 is, for example, a hardware module for performing UWB communication with payment terminal 200. First communication module 111 operates as, for example, a UWB tag.

[0061] First communication module 111 performs UWB communication with payment terminal 200 under the control of first communication control unit 112 .

[0062] (First communication control unit 112) The first communication control unit 112 is a software module including a driver and a library (first storage unit) that control the first communication module 111. The first communication control unit 112 controls the first communication module 111 and a UWB applet that runs on the secure element 130.

[0063] The first communication control unit 112 performs UWB communication with the payment terminal 200 , detects the position of the information processing device 100 , and performs payment processing and the like according to instructions from the control unit 170 .

[0064] The first communication module 111, the first communication control unit 112, and the UWB applet operating on the secure element 130 are collectively referred to as the first communication unit 110.

[0065] (Second communication module 121) The second communication module 121 is, for example, a hardware module for performing NFC communication with the payment terminal 200. The second communication module 121 operates, for example, as an NFC tag. For example, the second communication module 121 may communicate directly with an NFC reader / writer installed in the payment terminal 200.

[0066] (Second communication control unit 122) The second communication control unit 122 is a software module including a driver and a library (second storage unit) that control the second communication module 121. The second communication control unit 122 controls the second communication module 121 and an NFC applet that runs on the secure element 130.

[0067] The second communication control unit 122 obtains, for example, the balance of electronic money by reading information written in the NFC applet in the secure element 130. The second communication control unit 122 also writes information in the NFC applet in the secure element 130 to perform, for example, charging electronic money.

[0068] The second communication module 121, the second communication control unit 122, and the NFC applet that operates on the secure element 130 are collectively referred to as the second communication unit 120.

[0069] (Secure Element 130) The secure element 130 is a hardware module of a secure component used by both the first communication unit 110 and the second communication unit 120. A UWB applet and an NFC applet run on the secure element 130. An applet that links UWB and NFC may also run on the secure element 130.

[0070] The secure element 130 can hold information that needs to be managed securely, such as a credit card number, an electronic money balance, or an identification number.

[0071] (Third Communication Unit 140) The third communication unit 140 is, for example, a wireless communication unit that performs cellular communication with the base station 400. The third communication unit 140 connects to a public network such as the Internet via the base station 400.

[0072] (Storage Unit 150) The storage unit 150 is a data readable / writable storage device such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a flash memory, or a hard disk.

[0073] (Input / Output Unit 160) The input / output unit 160 is a user interface for exchanging information with the user. For example, the input / output unit 160 is an operation device such as a keyboard, a mouse, operation keys, or a touch panel that allows the user to perform various operations. Alternatively, the input / output unit 160 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electroluminescence display (OLED). The input / output unit 160 may be an acoustic device such as a speaker or a buzzer. The input / output unit 160 may also be a lighting device such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamp. The input / output unit 160 functions as input / output means (input means, output means, operation means, or notification means) of the information processing device 100.

[0074] (Control Unit 170) The control unit 170 is a controller that controls each unit of the information processing device 100. The control unit 170 is realized by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). For example, the control unit 170 is realized by the processor executing various programs stored in a storage device inside the information processing device 100 using a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like as a working area.

[0075] The control unit 170 may be realized by an integrated circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). A CPU, an MPU, an ASIC, and an FPGA can all be considered as controllers.

[0076] The control unit 170 may function as, for example, an application execution unit that executes an application that performs information processing, which will be described later. The information processing may include, for example, the above-described pre-processing, payment processing, etc. In other words, the control unit 170 may be said to be a processing unit that controls the first communication unit 110, etc., and executes pre-processing, payment processing, etc.

[0077] Here, it is assumed that the second communication control unit 122 acquires the balance of electronic money, but the control unit 170 or the first communication control unit 112 may acquire the balance of electronic money, etc.

[0078] For example, after an authentication process described below has been performed between the payment terminal 200 and the first communication control unit 112 of the information processing device 100, the third communication unit 140 may perform processes such as obtaining the balance of electronic money or charging the electronic money. In this case, the third communication unit 140 accesses the secure element 130 and uses a cellular communication network to obtain the balance of electronic money from a payment server (not shown) or the like or to charge the electronic money.

[0079] Also, for example, after the authentication process described below is performed between the payment terminal 200 and the first communication control unit 112 of the information processing device 100, the payment terminal 200 may perform processes such as checking the balance of electronic money or charging via UWB communication.

[0080] Here, processing related to electronic money (balance inquiry processing, charge processing, etc.) has been described, but authorization for credit card payments, etc. can also be processed in the same way.

[0081] For example, after the authentication process described below has been performed between the payment terminal 200 and the first communication control unit 112 of the information processing device 100, the information processing device 100 can perform authorization of credit card payments, etc. via the third communication unit 140.

[0082] Alternatively, after the authentication process described below is performed between the payment terminal 200 and the first communication control unit 112 of the information processing device 100, the payment terminal 200 may perform processes such as authorization of credit card payment via UWB communication.

[0083] Although the information processing device 100 has been described as accessing a public network such as the Internet via cellular communication, the information processing device 100 may access a public network using communication other than cellular communication. For example, the information processing device 100 may access a public network via Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or the like.

[0084] The above-mentioned third communication unit 140 can also be said to be an external communication interface that connects to an external network via wired or wireless communication.

[0085] 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of payment terminal 200 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Payment terminal 200 shown in Fig. 4 includes a first communication module 211, a first communication control unit 212, a second communication module 221, and a second communication control unit 222. Payment terminal 200 also includes a secure element (SE) 230, a third communication module 241, a third communication control unit 242, a storage unit 250, and a control unit 260.

[0086] (First Communication Module 211) The first communication module 211 is, for example, a hardware module for performing UWB communication with the information processing device 100. The first communication module 211 operates as, for example, a UWB anchor.

[0087] The first communication module 211 performs UWB communication with the information processing device 100 under the control of the first communication control unit 212 .

[0088] (First communication control unit 212) The first communication control unit 212 is a software module including a driver and a library (third storage unit) that control the first communication module 211. The first communication control unit 212 controls the first communication module 211 and a UWB applet that runs on the secure element 230.

[0089] The first communication control unit 212 performs UWB communication with the information processing device 100 , detects the position of the information processing device 100 , and performs payment processing and the like according to instructions from the control unit 260 .

[0090] The first communication module 211, the first communication control unit 212, and the UWB applet that operates on the secure element 130 are collectively referred to as the first communication unit 210.

[0091] (Second Communication Module 221) The second communication module 221 is, for example, a hardware module for performing NFC communication with the information processing device 100. The second communication module 221 operates as, for example, an NFC reader / writer.

[0092] (Second communication control unit 222) The second communication control unit 222 is a software module including a driver and a library (fourth storage unit) that control the second communication module 221. The second communication control unit 222 controls the second communication module 221 and an NFC applet that runs on the secure element 230.

[0093] The second communication module 221, the second communication control unit 222, and the NFC applet that operates on the secure element 230 are collectively referred to as the second communication unit 220.

[0094] (Secure Element 230) The secure element 230 is a hardware module of a secure component used by both the first communication unit 210 and the second communication unit 220. A UWB applet and an NFC applet run on the secure element 230. An applet that links UWB and NFC may also run on the secure element 230.

[0095] (Third Communication Module 241) The third communication module 241 is, for example, a hardware module of an external communication interface for communicating with the control device 300. The third communication module 241 is connected to the control device 300 via a wired or wireless connection.

[0096] (Third Communication Control Unit 242) The third communication control unit 242 is a software module including a driver and a library (fifth storage unit) that control the third communication module 241. The third communication control unit 242 controls the third communication module 241.

[0097] The third communication module 241 and the third communication control unit 242 are collectively referred to as the third communication unit 240 .

[0098] (Storage Unit 250) The storage unit 250 is a data readable / writable storage device such as a DRAM, an SRAM, a flash memory, or a hard disk.

[0099] (Control unit 260) Control unit 260 is a controller that controls each unit of payment terminal 200. Control unit 260 is realized by a processor such as a CPU or MPU. For example, control unit 260 is realized by the processor executing various programs stored in a storage device inside payment terminal 200 using RAM or the like as a working area.

[0100] The control unit 260 may be realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA. A CPU, an MPU, an ASIC, and an FPGA can all be considered as a controller.

[0101] The control unit 260 can function as an application execution unit that executes an application that performs information processing, which will be described later, for example. The control unit 260 communicates with the information processing device 100 and the control device 300, and performs information processing, which will be described later.

[0102] The information processing may include, for example, the above-described preliminary processing, payment processing, etc. In other words, the control unit 260 can be said to be a processing unit that controls the first communication unit 210, the third communication unit 240, etc., and executes the preliminary processing, payment processing, etc.

[0103] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of information processing according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing shown in Fig. 5 is executed by an application that executes the information processing while the application is running on the information processing device 100. This application may be executed in the background, for example.

[0104] 5, the application (information processing device 100) detects the position of the information processing device 100 (step S101). The application detects the position of the information processing device 100 based on UWB communication by the first communication unit 110, for example.

[0105] The application determines whether the user is located within zone Z2 based on the detected location (step S102). Here, zone Z2 is an area whose distance from payment terminal 200 is equal to or greater than D1 but less than D2 (see FIG. 1).

[0106] 1 can be set in advance by a communication system administrator, etc. Alternatively, the preset zones Z1 to Z3 can be changed by a user.

[0107] For example, when the information processing of Figure 5 is executed when paying for a product purchase at a store, etc., zone Z1 is near the payment terminal 200, specifically, at a distance where the information processing device 100 is held over the payment terminal 200 (for example, D1 = approximately 10 cm).

[0108] Zone Z2 may correspond to, for example, an area where users wait to make a payment (an area where users wait in line at the cash register). In this case, zone Z2 may be at a distance D1 of about 10 cm or more and D2 of less than a few meters from payment terminal 200.

[0109] Zone Z3 corresponds to, for example, an area where products are displayed, etc. In zone Z3, the user selects products to purchase, but does not make a payment.

[0110] 5, the application determines whether the information processing device 100, in other words, the user, is located within zone Z2, depending on the detected location of the information processing device 100. That is, the application determines whether the user is waiting in line at the cash register, depending on the location of the information processing device 100.

[0111] If the user is not located within zone Z2 (step S102; No), the application returns to step S101 and detects the position of the information processing device 100.

[0112] On the other hand, if the user is located within zone Z2 (step S102; Yes), the application notifies the user (step S103). For example, the application may send a push notification or the like to prompt the user to select a payment method (payment type) or perform pre-processing.

[0113] At this time, the application may change the notification method depending on whether the user is holding the information processing device 100 in their hand.

[0114] For example, when a user makes a payment while the information processing device 100 is not being held in the user's hand, such as when the information processing device 100 is in a bag or pocket, the user must take the information processing device 100 out of the bag and then perform the payment process, which takes time to complete the payment process.

[0115] If the user can take the information processing device 100 out of their bag and prepare to perform the payment process while waiting for payment (while waiting in line at the register), the time required to complete the payment process can be shortened.

[0116] Therefore, the application according to this embodiment can change the notification method depending on whether the user is holding the information processing device 100 in his / her hand.

[0117] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification by an application according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] As described above, when the application detects that the user has entered zone Z2, it sends a push notification.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 6, when the user puts the information processing device 100 in a bag or the like and does not hold it in his / her hand, the application may notify the user by vibration, sound, light, color, or the like in addition to the notification on the screen.

[0120] This allows the user to hold the information processing device 100 in their hand, for example, within zone Z2, and perform operations for pre-processing and payment processing (for example, holding the information processing device 100 over the payment terminal 200) more smoothly.

[0121] For example, in UWB communication, the application acquires a determination result as to whether or not the surrounding environment of the information processing device 100 is a line of sight (LOS) environment from the first communication unit 110. The application changes the notification method depending on the number of times it has determined that the environment is a LOS environment (hereinafter also referred to as the LOS count).

[0122] For example, the application may increase the notification intensity as the number of LOS occurrences increases, where the notification intensity may be the strength of vibration, the loudness of sound, the intensity of light, or the like.

[0123] 7 is a graph showing an example in which an application changes notification intensity according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the horizontal axis represents the number of LOSs and the vertical axis represents notification intensity.

[0124] 7, the application sets the notification intensity to the highest value St1 when the number of LOS occurrences in a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent period) is N2. Also, the application sets the notification intensity to the lowest value (or does not notify) when the number of LOS occurrences in a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent period) is N1 (N2>N1).

[0125] 7, the application is configured so that the rate of change in the notification intensity decreases as the number of LOS occurrences increases, and the rate of change in the notification intensity increases as the number of LOS occurrences decreases. Note that the rate of change may be constant, or may increase as the number of LOS occurrences increases.

[0126] Alternatively, the application may decrease the notification intensity as the number of LOS occurrences decreases. Fig. 8 is a graph showing another example of a case where the application changes the notification intensity according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The horizontal axis of the graph in Fig. 8 represents the number of LOS occurrences, and the vertical axis represents the notification intensity.

[0127] 8, the application sets the notification intensity to the highest value St2 when the number of LOS occurrences in a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent period) is N3. The application also sets the notification intensity to the lowest value (or does not notify) when the number of LOS occurrences in a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent period) is N4 (N4>N3).

[0128] In the example of Fig. 8, the application is configured so that the rate of change in the notification intensity decreases as the number of LOS occurrences increases, and the rate of change in the notification intensity increases as the number of LOS occurrences decreases. Note that the rate of change may be constant, or may increase as the number of LOS occurrences increases.

[0129] The change in notification intensity shown here is merely an example and is not intended to be limiting. For example, the application may set the notification intensity to a first level when the number of LOS occurrences in a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent period) is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and may set the notification intensity to a second level that is smaller than the first level when the number of LOS occurrences is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0130] Also, here, the application changes the notification intensity depending on the number of LOS occurrences, in other words, determines whether the user is holding the information processing device 100 in their hand, but the notification intensity may also be changed based on information other than the number of LOS occurrences.

[0131] For example, in addition to or instead of the number of LOS occurrences, the application may change the notification intensity based on the sensing results of a sensor (not shown) mounted on the information processing device 100. Examples of the sensor mounted on the information processing device 100 include a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, an illuminance sensor, and an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit).

[0132] Returning to FIG. 5, the application that notified the user in step S103 then executes a process for selecting a payment type (step S104).

[0133] For example, the application presents the user with a selection screen for selecting a payment type (payment method), and accepts the selection of the payment type from the user via the selection screen.

[0134] 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a selection screen according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The application displays a list of payment types that the user can select on the selection screen.

[0135] 9, the application displays three payment types that the user can select: "Electronic Money M1," "Electronic Money M2," and "Credit C." For example, when a certain amount is charged to an electronic money card and used, the application may display the remaining amount in addition to the name of the electronic money.

[0136] In this way, the application may present information about the payment type (e.g., remaining balance, payment limit, most recent payment details, etc.) on the selection screen in addition to the names of the payment types that the user can select.

[0137] The user selects one of the payment types displayed on the selection screen, for example, by tapping it.

[0138] If the user can only select one payment method, the application may omit the selection screen. In this case, the application may omit the payment method selection process itself, or may execute a payment method determination process instead of the selection process.

[0139] For example, as part of the payment type determination process, the application may present information about the payment type (e.g., the name of the payment type, the remaining balance, the payment limit, the most recent payment details, etc.) to the user.

[0140] 5 , the application first executes biometric authentication processing (an example of a first authentication processing) to verify the identity of the user (step S105). For example, the application presents a first authentication screen to the user and executes the biometric authentication processing. For example, the application executes the biometric authentication processing using fingerprint authentication, face authentication, or the like, and verifies the identity of the user who will make a payment using the information processing device 100.

[0141] In addition, the identity verification here may be in addition to, or instead of, identity verification that confirms that the user of the information processing device 100 is the actual user, the person making the payment using the information processing device 100 is the actual user who has the right to make the payment.

[0142] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first authentication screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The first authentication screen illustrated in Fig. 10 is displayed, for example, following a payment type selection screen. In the example of Fig. 10, information about the payment type selected by the user and information about the biometric authentication process being performed by the application are included in the first authentication screen.

[0143] 10 shows the first authentication screen when the user selects electronic money M1. In addition, an icon indicating that the application is performing fingerprint authentication or face authentication is displayed on the first authentication screen.

[0144] The first authentication screen shown in Fig. 10 is an example and is not limited to the example of Fig. 10. For example, the first authentication screen may include display information that prompts the user to input information to be used in the biometric authentication process. For example, in the case of fingerprint authentication, this display information may include information instructing the user to touch the sensor with their finger. In addition, in the case of face authentication, the application may display a camera image as the display information.

[0145] The biometric authentication performed by the application may be at least one of fingerprint authentication and face authentication, or may be palm authentication or vein authentication.

[0146] The application may also perform identity verification using authentication other than biometric authentication, such as a signature or password.

[0147] 5, the application executes a location authentication process (an example of second authentication) (step S106). For example, the application executes location authentication using secure ranging using the secure element 130 in UWB.

[0148] For example, the application may consider a user to have consented to payment by performing location authentication and then execute payment processing. In the location authentication using UWB described above, in places where there are many users, such as stores, the application may perform location authentication on a user who does not intend to make a payment and consider the user to have consented to payment.

[0149] In order to avoid the risk of unintended users being deemed to have agreed to payment, the application of this embodiment not only performs location authentication (secure ranging) using UWB, but also performs stay authentication based on the length of stay in each zone.

[0150] 11 is a graph showing an example of thresholds used for stay authentication according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The application uses the thresholds of the graph shown in FIG. 11 to perform stay authentication to determine whether the user is staying in each zone.

[0151] When the location of the user (more specifically, the information processing device 100) is within zone Z3, the application does not perform stay authentication based on the stay time. Therefore, in this case, a threshold for stay authentication is not set.

[0152] Therefore, zone Z1 is the range in which the user's consent to payment can be confirmed. When the user (more specifically, the information processing device 100) is located within zone Z1, the application determines that the user is staying in zone Z1 to make a payment, regardless of the length of time the user has stayed in zone Z1. In other words, the application sets "0" as the threshold for stay authentication.

[0153] Alternatively, the application may not perform stay authentication based on stay time when the user (more specifically, the information processing device 100) is located within zone Z3. In this case, a threshold value for stay authentication is not set.

[0154] When the user (more specifically, the information processing device 100) is located within zone Z2, the application sets a threshold value according to the length of stay. For example, the application sets a threshold value that is larger the further outside zone Z2 (farther away from payment terminal 200). Also, for example, the application sets a threshold value that is smaller the further inside zone Z2 (closer to payment terminal 200).

[0155] That is, the application determines that the user will make a payment only if the user stays longer outside of zone Z2. A user who does not make a payment may pass through zone Z2 while moving around the store, etc. In this case, the user's stay time in zone Z2 will be shorter. It is also considered that the further outside zone Z2 is, the more users will pass through.

[0156] Therefore, in this embodiment, the application does not authenticate users unless they have stayed outside of zone Z2 for a long time. If the application does not perform this authentication, payment or subsequent processing will not be performed. This allows the application to not perform payment processing or the like for users who have simply passed through zone Z2.

[0157] In this example, the application performs stay authentication after biometric authentication, but the timing of performing stay authentication is not limited to this.

[0158] For example, when determining whether the user is located in zone Z2 in step S102, the application may perform presence authentication instead of simply determining the user's location. This allows the application to avoid sending unnecessary notifications to users who do not make payments.

[0159] 5, the application determines whether there is any information to be distributed to the user (step S107). Examples of the information to be distributed include coupon information and information about parking tickets.

[0160] For example, the application inquires of the control device 300 via the payment terminal 200 about the presence or absence of distribution information, and determines whether or not distribution information is available based on the result of the inquiry.

[0161] If there is no distribution information (step S107; No), the application executes the process of step S109.

[0162] If there is distribution information (step S107; Yes), the application executes distribution processing (step S108).For example, as the distribution processing, the application presents a distribution screen including the distribution information to the user.

[0163] 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a distribution screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. When there is distribution information to be distributed to the user, the application presents a distribution screen including the distribution information to the user.

[0164] 12, the application presents the user with a distribution screen including coupons K1, K2, and K3, allowing the user to check the distribution information while waiting in line at the register.

[0165] At this time, the application may distribute information according to the time the user has spent in zone Z2. For example, the application may distribute coupons with higher discount rates the longer the user waits in line at the cash register (the time the user has spent in zone Z2).

[0166] The application may also distribute distribution information according to the user. For example, the application may acquire attribute information such as the user's preferences, gender, and age in advance, acquire distribution information according to this attribute information from the control device 300, and present it to the user.

[0167] Returning to FIG. 5, the application executes a pre-payment process (an example of a confirmation process) according to the payment type selected by the user (step S109).

[0168] 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a presentation screen presented to a user during pre-payment processing according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 13, a presentation screen is shown when the user selects credit (credit C in the example of FIG. 13) as the payment type.

[0169] In addition, the presentation screen in Figure 13 displays an icon indicating that biometric authentication has been completed and text information indicating that pre-payment processing is being performed (in the example in Figure 13, "Pre-verification in progress").

[0170] For example, if a user selects a post-pay payment such as a credit card payment, the application executes authorization as a pre-payment process and checks whether the payment is within the credit limit.

[0171] 14 is a diagram illustrating another example of a presentation screen presented to a user during pre-payment processing according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 14, a presentation screen is shown when the user selects electronic money (electronic money M1 in the example of FIG. 14) as the payment type.

[0172] For example, if a user selects a prepaid payment method such as electronic money, the application checks the remaining balance and charge as a pre-payment process. Charge confirmation may be performed every time, or when a predetermined condition is met. Examples of predetermined conditions include when the remaining balance is below a certain amount, or when the remaining balance is less than the payment fee.

[0173] The presentation screen in Fig. 14 displays the name of the selected electronic money and the remaining balance. Furthermore, when recharging, a list of available recharging amounts is displayed. In the example of Fig. 14, the available recharging amounts are 5,000 yen, 3,000 yen, 1,000 yen, and other amounts. Alternatively, the user may choose not to recharge.

[0174] The application performs pre-payment processing by charging the amount selected by the user. If the charging is successful, for example, the application notifies the user of the remaining balance after charging and that the charging is complete. On the other hand, if the charging fails, the application may notify the user of this.

[0175] For example, if an electronic money charge or credit authorization fails, the application may notify the user of this and present a selection screen to the user to select another payment method, thereby enabling the user to make a payment more reliably.

[0176] Returning to FIG. 5, the application executes a prompting process for prompting the user to perform an action that will trigger the start of the payment process (step S110).

[0177] For example, in this embodiment, the application starts the payment process when the user holds the information processing device 100 over the payment terminal 200 (brings it within a predetermined distance). Then, as a guidance process, the application notifies the user of the location of the payment terminal 200 by sound, on the screen, vibration, or the like.

[0178] For example, the application calculates at least one of the distance and direction between the payment terminal 200 and the information processing device 100 from the positions of the payment terminal 200 and the information processing device 100. The application guides the user to the payment terminal 200 by changing the content displayed on the screen, light, color, sound, vibration, etc. according to at least one of the distance and direction.

[0179] 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance process according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the application presents guidance information to the user according to the distance between the payment terminal 200 and the information processing device 100. Examples of the guidance information include an image, sound, and vibration.

[0180] 15 , the application uses text information (an example of guidance information) to guide the user to hold information processing device 100 over payment terminal 200. In this way, the guidance information includes information that guides the user to perform an action that triggers the execution of payment processing (a user instruction to start payment processing).

[0181] 15, the text information is "Please touch." This text information lets the user know that payment processing will be performed by holding (touching) information processing device 100 over payment terminal 200.

[0182] The method of making a payment by touching the payment terminal 200 is the same as the conventional payment method using NFC communication, so the user can easily make a payment using the same operations as before.

[0183] In the example of FIG. 15 , the application presents guidance information to the user such that the notification intensity decreases as the information processing device 100 becomes farther from the payment terminal 200 .

[0184] For example, the application reduces vibrations and sounds and displays a fainter image when the information processing device 100 is farther from the payment terminal 200. On the other hand, the application increases vibrations and sounds and displays a darker image as the information processing device 100 gets closer to the payment terminal 200.

[0185] 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of notification intensity for notifying guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The horizontal axis of the graph in Fig. 16 represents the distance from the payment terminal 200, and the vertical axis represents the notification intensity.

[0186] In the graph shown in FIG. 16, the application sets the notification intensity to the highest value St3 when the distance from payment terminal 200 is less than D1, that is, when information processing device 100 is located within zone Z1.

[0187] Furthermore, when the distance from payment terminal 200 is equal to or greater than D2, that is, when information processing device 100 moves to zone Z3, the application reduces the notification intensity to the lowest (or terminates the notification).

[0188] 16 , the rate of change in the notification intensity decreases as the application is farther away from payment terminal 200, and increases as the application is closer to payment terminal 200. Note that the rate of change may be constant, or may increase as the distance from payment terminal 200 increases.

[0189] Alternatively, the application may decrease the notification intensity as the application gets closer to the payment terminal 200. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing another example of the notification intensity for notifying the guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The horizontal axis of the graph in Fig. 17 represents the distance from the payment terminal 200, and the vertical axis represents the notification intensity.

[0190] In the graph shown in FIG. 17, the application minimizes the notification intensity (or terminates the notification) when the distance from payment terminal 200 is less than D1, that is, when information processing device 100 is located within zone Z1.

[0191] Furthermore, the application sets the notification intensity to St4, which is the highest, when the distance from payment terminal 200 is D2, that is, at the boundary between zone Z3 and zone Z2.

[0192] 17 , the rate of change in the notification intensity decreases as the application is farther away from payment terminal 200, and increases as the application is closer to payment terminal 200. Note that the rate of change may be constant, or may increase as the distance from payment terminal 200 increases.

[0193] The application may also notify the user of guidance information with a notification intensity that corresponds to the orientation (direction) of information processing device 100 relative to payment terminal 200 .

[0194] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the orientation of the information processing device 100 relative to the payment terminal 200 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0195] For example, the application calculates the orientation (relative angle) of the information processing device 100 with respect to the payment terminal 200 using as a reference a straight line (shown as a dotted line in Figure 18; hereinafter also referred to as the reference line) connecting the payment terminal 200 and the information processing device 100.

[0196] In this case, the application sets the longitudinal direction of the information processing device 100 as the reference direction of the information processing device 100 (hereinafter also referred to as the device reference direction). Note that the device reference direction may be a direction corresponding to the orientation of the screen of the information processing device 100 (for example, landscape or portrait). For example, when the user rotates the orientation of the screen of the information processing device 100, the device reference direction may also rotate accordingly.

[0197] The application calculates the angle (angle A11 in the example of FIG. 18 ) between the reference line and the device reference direction as the orientation of the information processing device 100. The application notifies the user of guidance information with notification intensity according to the calculated orientation of the information processing device 100, for example.

[0198] Note that a range (intensity range) in which the notification intensity is changed may be defined. For example, in the example of Fig. 18, the application changes the notification intensity in the range from the maximum angle Q02 to the minimum angle Q01.

[0199] 19 and 20 are diagrams illustrating an example of guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 19 illustrates an example of guidance information when the orientation of the information processing device 100 is small, that is, when the information processing device 100 faces the payment terminal 200.

[0200] 19, when the orientation of the information processing device 100 is small, the application increases the intensity of the guidance information. For example, in this case, the application increases the vibration and sound and displays the image in a darker tone.

[0201] FIG. 20 shows an example of guidance information when the orientation of the information processing device 100 is large, that is, when the information processing device 100 is not facing the payment terminal 200.

[0202] 20, when the orientation of the information processing device 100 is large, the application reduces the intensity of the guidance information. For example, in this case, the application reduces vibration and sound and displays a faint image.

[0203] 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of notification intensity for notifying guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The horizontal axis of the graph in Fig. 21 represents the orientation of the information processing device 100, and the vertical axis represents notification intensity.

[0204] In the graph shown in FIG. 21, the application sets the notification intensity to the highest value St5 when information processing device 100 is facing payment terminal 200, that is, when the orientation of information processing device 100 is less than minimum angle Q01.

[0205] Furthermore, when information processing device 100 is not facing payment terminal 200, for example, when the orientation of information processing device 100 is equal to or greater than maximum angle Q02, the application minimizes the notification intensity (or terminates the notification).

[0206] 21 , the application changes the notification intensity at a rate that increases as the orientation of the information processing device 100 approaches the minimum angle Q01, and decreases the notification intensity at a rate that decreases as the orientation of the information processing device 100 approaches the maximum angle Q02. Note that the rate of change may be constant, or may increase as the orientation of the information processing device 100 approaches the maximum angle Q02.

[0207] Alternatively, the application may increase the notification intensity as the orientation of the information processing device 100 approaches the maximum angle Q02. Fig. 22 is a diagram showing another example of the notification intensity for notifying guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The horizontal axis of the graph in Fig. 22 represents the orientation of the information processing device 100, and the vertical axis represents the notification intensity.

[0208] In the graph shown in Figure 22, the application reduces the notification intensity to the lowest (or terminates the notification) when the information processing device 100 is facing the payment terminal 200, i.e., when the orientation of the information processing device 100 is less than the minimum angle Q01.

[0209] Furthermore, when information processing device 100 is not facing payment terminal 200, for example, when the orientation of information processing device 100 is equal to or greater than maximum angle Q02, the application sets notification intensity to the highest value St6.

[0210] 22 , the application changes the notification intensity at a rate that increases as the orientation of the information processing device 100 approaches the minimum angle Q01, and decreases the notification intensity at a rate that decreases as the orientation of the information processing device 100 approaches the maximum angle Q02. Note that the rate of change may be constant, or may increase as the orientation of the information processing device 100 approaches the maximum angle Q02.

[0211] Furthermore, in the above example, the application presents guidance information to the user according to at least one of the distance and the direction to the payment terminal 200, but guidance information may also be presented according to both the distance and the direction.

[0212] 23 to 25 are diagrams for explaining an example of guidance information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 23 shows an example of a guidance screen including start information for starting a guidance process.

[0213] The guidance screen in Fig. 23 includes start information, which is text information. In the example of Fig. 23, text information such as "Please touch the card face" and "Payment will begin" is displayed. When the user touches the image of the card face, the guidance process by the application starts.

[0214] The guidance screen may also include information other than the start information. For example, in Fig. 23, the guidance screen displays electronic money M1 as the payment type, 10,000 yen as the electronic money balance, and a button for charging.

[0215] The guidance screen may also display the amount to be paid in the settlement as the payment amount. In Figure 23, the payment amount has not been confirmed and is displayed as "---". The guidance screen in Figure 23 also displays the usage history of electronic money M1 as "Recent Uses".

[0216] In addition, in Figure 23, the user may be able to select a different payment type by touching a triangular button displayed next to the image of the card representing electronic money M1 or by flicking the image of the card face sideways.

[0217] Assume that the user who touched the image on the card moves from zone Z2 to zone Z1 while holding the information processing device 100 in their hand, as shown in Fig. 24. An example of the guidance screen presented by the application in this case is shown in Fig. 25. Note that in Fig. 24, different reference symbols (information processing devices 100-01 to 100-04) are assigned to the information processing devices 100 at each location in order to distinguish the moving information processing devices 100 according to their location.

[0218] The application displays a guidance screen S01 in Fig. 25 on the screen of the information processing device 100-01 in Fig. 24. On the guidance screen S01 in Fig. 25, the application displays the distance to the payment terminal 200 as a circle and the direction of the information processing device 100-01 as an arrow. The circle and arrow are examples of guidance information.

[0219] When the information processing device 100 approaches the payment terminal 200, more specifically, when the distance between the information processing device 100 and the payment terminal 200 is D3 (D1 > D3 > D2) or less, the application changes the color of the circle indicating the distance to the payment terminal 200.

[0220] In the example of guidance screen S01 in FIG. 25, the distance between information processing device 100-01 and payment terminal 200 is equal to or greater than D3, so the application displays the circle indicating the distance to payment terminal 200 in white.

[0221] In addition, when the information processing device 100 is facing the payment terminal 200, more specifically, when the angle between the reference line and the device reference direction (see Figure 18) is less than Q03 (Q03 < Q01), the application changes the color of the arrow indicating the direction of the information processing device 100.

[0222] In the example of the guidance screen S01 in FIG. 25, the orientation of the information processing device 100-01 is less than Q03, so the application displays the arrow indicating the orientation of the information processing device 100-01 in black.

[0223] Next, as shown in Fig. 24, it is assumed that the information processing device 100-01 moves to the information processing device 100-02 so as to approach the payment terminal 200. In this case, the application displays the guidance screen S02 of Fig. 25 on the screen of the information processing device 100-02 of Fig. 24.

[0224] 25, the application displays the distance to the payment terminal 200 using a smaller circle than that displayed on the guidance screen S01. This is because the information processing device 100-02 is closer to the payment terminal 200 than the information processing device 100-01.

[0225] Next, as shown in Fig. 24, it is assumed that the information processing device 100-02 moves to the information processing device 100-03 so as to approach the payment terminal 200. In this case, the application displays the guidance screen S03 of Fig. 25 on the screen of the information processing device 100-03 of Fig. 24.

[0226] 25, the application displays the distance to payment terminal 200 using a smaller circle than the one displayed on guidance screen S02. The application also displays this circle in black. This is because information processing device 100-03 is closer to payment terminal 200 than information processing device 100-02, and the distance to payment terminal 200 is now less than D3.

[0227] The application can prompt the user to move the information processing device 100 closer to the payment terminal 200 (specifically, so that the distance is less than D1) by displaying text information such as "Please touch the payment terminal" on the guidance screen S03.

[0228] As shown in Fig. 24, assume that the information processing device 100-03 moves even closer to the payment terminal 200 and reaches the information processing device 100-04. In this case, since the information processing device 100-04 is located within zone Z1, the application executes the payment process and displays the completion screen S04 of Fig. 25 on the screen of the information processing device 100-04 of Fig. 24.

[0229] The completion screen S04 displays information indicating that the payment process has been executed and that the payment has been completed (in FIG. 25, text information stating "Payment completed"), allowing the user to recognize that the payment has been completed.

[0230] 5, the application executes the guidance process as described above in step S110 to prompt the user to perform an action for making a payment. At this time, the application also detects the location of the user (more specifically, the information processing device 100 used by the user) and determines whether the user is located within zone Z3 (step S111).

[0231] If the user is located within zone Z3 (step S111; Yes), the application returns to step S101 and detects the location of the user (more specifically, the information processing device 100 used by the user).

[0232] If the user is not located within zone Z3 (step S111; No), the application determines whether or not the information processing device 100 is located within zone Z1 (step S112). In other words, the application determines whether or not the user has held (touched) the information processing device 100 over the payment terminal 200.

[0233] If the information processing device 100 is not located within zone Z1 (step S112; No), the application returns to step S110 and detects the location of the user (more specifically, the information processing device 100 used by the user).

[0234] If the information processing device 100 is located within zone Z1 (step S112; Yes), the application executes payment processing (step S113). The application communicates with the control device 300 via the payment terminal 200 and completes the payment. When the payment is completed, the application presents, for example, a completion screen S04 of FIG. 25 to notify the user that the payment has been completed.

[0235] In the payment process, the information processing device 100 may communicate with the payment terminal 200 using UWB communication or NFC communication.

[0236] Also, here, the application detects the position of the information processing device 100 after (or during) execution of the guidance process, and depending on the detection result, returns to step S101 or executes step S113, but the timing of detecting the position is not limited to this.

[0237] For example, the application may repeatedly detect the position of the information processing device 100 at predetermined intervals while executing the information processing shown in Fig. 5. The application detects in which zone the information processing device 100 is located based on the detected position.

[0238] If the information processing device 100 is located in zone Z3, the information processing device 100 returns to step S101 regardless of the process being executed.

[0239] On the other hand, when the information processing device 100 is located in zone Z1, the application changes its operation depending on the process being executed. For example, if biometric authentication process, location authentication process, or pre-payment process is being executed, the application completes all of these processes and then promptly executes the payment process.

[0240] For example, if movement into zone Z1 is detected during biometric authentication processing, the application executes the remaining biometric authentication processing, location confirmation processing, and pre-payment processing before executing payment processing. In this case, the application does not execute the distribution processing and guidance processing.

[0241] In addition, some of the processes such as biometric authentication, location confirmation, and pre-payment processing, such as charging electronic money, may be omitted.

[0242] As described above, the communication system according to this embodiment can detect the position of information processing device 100 using, for example, UWB communication, and thereby detect whether information processing device 100 is approaching payment terminal 200. This allows the communication system to detect that a user is located in an area close to payment terminal 200, such as zone Z2, and perform pre-processing with this user.

[0243] The pre-processing includes authentication processes such as the biometric authentication process and location authentication process described above. The pre-processing may also include at least one of a distribution process, a pre-payment process, and a guidance process. By performing authentication processes and the like before the user actually makes a payment, the communication system can execute the payment process more smoothly. Furthermore, by executing a guidance process, the communication system can prompt the user to make the payment more smoothly.

[0244] Furthermore, the communication system according to this embodiment allows zones Z1 to Z3 to be set arbitrarily. This allows a user to make a payment by bringing the information processing device 100 within a predetermined distance (e.g., D1) without actually touching the payment terminal 200. This increases the flexibility in the shape and placement of the payment terminal 200.

[0245] <<3. Second Embodiment>> In the first embodiment described above, a payment is made when a user holds (touches) information processing device 100 over payment terminal 200, more specifically, when information processing device 100 is positioned within zone Z1. That is, in the first embodiment, the user's action for making a payment is to bring information processing device 100 closer to payment terminal 200.

[0246] The user action for making a payment is not limited to the action of bringing information processing device 100 closer to payment terminal 200. For example, this user action may be a predetermined operation on information processing device 100. Such a case will be described as a second embodiment.

[0247] Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the communication system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, in Fig. 1, the payment process is executed when the information processing device 100 enters zone Z1. On the other hand, in Fig. 26, the payment process is executed when the information processing device 100 performs a predetermined user action in zone Z2. In the example of Fig. 26, zone Z1 is not set, and zones Z2 and Z3 are set.

[0248] The configuration of the communication system according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0249] 27 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of information processing according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing shown in Fig. 27 is executed by an application that executes the information processing while the application is running on the information processing device 100. This application may be executed in the background, for example.

[0250] 27, the same processes as those shown in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0251] As described above, the application according to this embodiment executes a payment process when it detects a predetermined user action, and therefore executes a process to guide the user to perform the predetermined user action (step S201).

[0252] The application then confirms that the information processing device 100 is not located in zone Z3 but is located in zone Z2, and then determines whether or not there is a user instruction (a user instruction to execute payment) (step S202). This user instruction corresponds to a user action.

[0253] If a user action is not detected, that is, if there is no user instruction (step S202; No), the application returns to step S111 and detects the position of the information processing device 100.

[0254] If a predetermined user action is detected, indicating a user instruction (step S202; Yes), the application proceeds to step S113 and executes the payment process.

[0255] As described above, the predetermined user action may be an operation on the information processing device 100 such as touching (pressing) or flicking (swiping) the screen.

[0256] For example, if the predetermined user action is pressing a payment button, the application guides the user action by displaying the payment button on the information processing device 100.

[0257] 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance screen according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in the guidance screen illustrated in FIG. 28 , the application presents a payment button (an example of guidance information) labeled “Pay” to the user, thereby prompting the user to press the payment button to make a payment.

[0258] At this time, the application may present the user with information other than the guidance information on the guidance screen, such as the payment type to be used for the payment ("electronic money M1" in the example of Figure 28) and the payment amount (7,510 yen in the example of Figure 28).

[0259] When the user touches the payment button, the application executes the payment process.

[0260] For example, the predetermined user action may be a flick (or a swipe) of the screen.

[0261] For example, the application detects a predetermined user action when the screen is flicked while information processing device 100 is facing payment terminal 200. Here, the state in which information processing device 100 is facing payment terminal 200 is a state in which the angle between the device reference direction of information processing device 100 and a reference line is within a predetermined range.

[0262] FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating the orientation of the information processing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0263] When the angle A13 formed by the reference line indicated by the dashed dotted line in Fig. 29 and the device reference direction Q13 of the information processing device 100 is within a predetermined range (equal to or less than angle Q04 in Fig. 29), the application determines that the information processing device 100 is facing the payment terminal 200. Note that angle Q04 may be an angle set in advance or may be an angle set by the user.

[0264] In this manner, with the information processing device 100 facing the payment terminal 200, the application causes the information processing device 100 to display a guidance screen.

[0265] 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a guidance screen according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in the upper diagram of Fig. 30, the application guides the user's action (in this case, a flick) by displaying an image of the card face and an arrow indicating the flicking direction on the information processing device 100.

[0266] For example, when a user flicks the card face displayed on the guidance screen in the direction of the arrow, an image of the card face moving in the direction of the arrow is displayed, as shown in the lower diagram of Figure 29, and the application executes the payment process.

[0267] When the payment process between the application and payment terminal 200 (more specifically, control device 300) is completed, payment terminal 200 may, for example, light up to notify the user that the payment has been completed. Alternatively, or in addition to payment terminal 200 lighting up, information indicating that the payment has been completed may be displayed on the screen of information processing device 100.

[0268] In the above-described information processing, after the payment type is selected, the distribution process and the like are executed, and then the guidance process is executed, but the guidance process may be executed after the payment type is selected. In this case, the biometric authentication process and the location authentication process may be executed before the selection process.

[0269] In this case, the delivery process may be omitted or may be executed before the payment type selection process. The pre-payment process may be omitted or may be executed after the payment type is selected but before the guidance process.

[0270] FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the information processing device 100 during the selection process and the guidance process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0271] As shown in the left diagram of Fig. 31, the application displays a list of selectable electronic money. The user can select a candidate electronic money to use for payment by swiping left or right on the list of selectable electronic money.

[0272] In FIG. 31, details of the electronic money selected as a candidate are displayed, for example, below a list of selectable electronic money.

[0273] The user selects the electronic money to be used for payment by flicking the electronic money selected as a candidate to the area above the list of selectable electronic money (the area on the left side of Figure 31 that reads "Please set the electronic money to be used for payment"). The middle diagram of Figure 31 shows the state in which electronic money M4 has been selected.

[0274] Thereafter, the user flicks the set (selected) electronic money M4 further upward, whereby payment is made using the set electronic money M4.

[0275] In this way, the user may be able to perform the operation for making the payment directly on the screen where he or she selected the payment type.

[0276] FIG. 31 shows a case where the user first selects electronic money (a flick action to set the electronic money) and then performs an action to make a payment (a flick action to move the electronic money further up).

[0277] In this way, in Fig. 31, the user performs two actions, selection and payment, but these actions may be performed by the user as a single action. For example, instead of setting the electronic money M4 selected by the user in the middle diagram of Fig. 31 in a predetermined area, the user may move it directly from the list to the top, thereby selecting the payment type and making the payment in a single action.

[0278] In the information processing described above, when the user is located within zone Z2, the application can perform payment in accordance with instructions from the user. Alternatively, the application may perform payment in accordance with instructions from the user made within a predetermined area within zone Z2. In the following, the predetermined area will be referred to as zone Z1, but zone Z1 may differ in size (value of distance D1) from zone Z1 in the first embodiment.

[0279] That is, the application determines that a payment instruction has been issued when a predetermined action is performed while the user is located within zone Z1. On the other hand, even if the predetermined action is performed outside zone Z1 (for example, within zone Z2), the application does not execute the payment process.

[0280] This method allows the user to issue a payment instruction while standing close to the payment terminal 200. For example, even if the user mistakenly issues a payment instruction in zone Z2, the application will not execute the payment. This allows the application to better prevent payments due to erroneous user instructions.

[0281] In this case, as a guidance process, the application may, for example, present the user with guidance information that guides the user to move around zone Z1 until the user enters zone Z1, and then guides the user to perform an action to make a payment once the user enters zone Z1.

[0282] 32 and 33 are diagrams illustrating an example of a guidance process according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Assume that the user moves from zone Z2 to zone Z1 as shown in Fig. 32 while holding the information processing device 100 in their hand. In this case, Fig. 33 shows an example of a guidance screen presented by the application.

[0283] In FIG. 32, in order to distinguish the moving information processing devices 100 according to their positions, different reference numerals (information processing devices 100-11 to 100-13) are assigned to the information processing devices 100 at each position.

[0284] The application displays a guidance screen S11 of Fig. 33 on the screen of the information processing device 100-11 of Fig. 32. On the guidance screen S11 of Fig. 33, the application displays the distance to the payment terminal 200 with a circle and the direction of the information processing device 100-01 with an arrow.

[0285] When the information processing device 100 approaches the payment terminal 200, more specifically, when it is within zone Z1 that accepts user actions to make a payment, the application changes the color of the circle indicating the distance to the payment terminal 200.

[0286] In addition, when the information processing device 100 is facing the payment terminal 200, more specifically, when it is within the range of directions that accept user actions to make a payment, the application changes the color of the arrow indicating the direction of the information processing device 100.

[0287] The application does not accept a user action for making a payment at the position and orientation of the information processing device 100-11. Therefore, the guidance screen S11 displays a white circle and arrow, and displays guidance information (in the example of FIG. 33 , text information saying “Please adjust the orientation of your mobile device and move closer to the payment terminal”) that prompts the user to change the orientation and position of the information processing device 100-11.

[0288] Next, as shown in Fig. 32, it is assumed that the information processing device 100-11 moves to the information processing device 100-12 so as to approach the payment terminal 200. In this case, the application displays the guidance screen S12 of Fig. 33 on the screen of the information processing device 100-12 of Fig. 32.

[0289] 33, the application displays the distance to the payment terminal 200 using a smaller circle than the one displayed on the guidance screen S11. The application also displays this circle in black because the information processing device 100-12 is closer to the payment terminal 200 than the information processing device 100-11 and has entered zone Z1.

[0290] On the other hand, the orientation of the information processing device 100-12 is not facing the payment terminal 200, and the arrow on the guidance screen S12 remains white. The application displays information prompting the user to change the orientation of the information processing device 100-12 on the guidance screen S12 (text information saying "Please adjust the orientation of your mobile device" in the example of FIG. 33).

[0291] As shown in Fig. 32, it is assumed that the information processing device 100-12 has rotated and is now facing the information processing device 100-13. In this case, the application displays the guidance screen S13 in Fig. 33 on the screen of the information processing device 100-13 in Fig. 32.

[0292] 33, the application displays the orientation of the information processing device 100-13 with a black arrow because the information processing device 100-13 is now facing the payment terminal 200.

[0293] In this case, the application displays information on the guidance screen S13 prompting the user to take action to make a payment (in the example of Figure 33, text information saying "Please flick the card face or touch the payment terminal").

[0294] Here, on the guidance screen S13, the application guides the user to either flick the screen or touch the payment terminal 200. In this way, the payment process may be performed by the user selecting and executing one of a plurality of actions.

[0295] Here, the payment process is performed by either flicking or touching the payment terminal 200, but the action for performing the payment process is not limited to these. For example, the payment process may be performed by either touching a payment button or flicking the screen.

[0296] As shown on screen S14 in FIG. 33, when the user flicks the image of the card face upward, the application detects this user action and executes the payment process.

[0297] As described above, in the second embodiment, the communication system detects a user action such as a flick and executes a payment, which allows the user to make a payment even from a location far away from the payment terminal 200, thereby further shortening the time spent waiting in line at the cash register.

[0298] <<4. Application Examples>> In the above-described embodiments, the communication system is described as being applied to a system in which payments such as product purchases are made. However, the communication system of the present disclosure may be applied to various systems. Furthermore, in the communication system, zones of various sizes may be set according to the system. The size of this zone may be set by a system administrator or may be set arbitrarily by a user. For example, a user may select one of multiple zone candidates set by the system administrator.

[0299] The following describes an example of a system to which the communication system of the present disclosure can be applied, and the size of the zone in the system (the distance from the payment terminal 200). Note that while specific values ​​are given here to describe the size of the zone, these values ​​are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.

[0300] <4-1. Payment System> As described above, the communication system of the present disclosure can be applied to a payment system for purchasing products and the like.

[0301] 34 is a diagram showing an example in which the communication system of the present disclosure is applied to a payment system, in which the configuration is the same as in the first and second embodiments.

[0302] 34, in this case, zone Z1 is set to be approximately 10 cm (D1 = 10 cm) from payment terminal 200. Zone Z2 is set to be approximately 100 cm (D2 = 100 cm) from payment terminal 200.

[0303] This allows the user to perform preliminary processing, including authentication processing, with the information processing device 100 while waiting in line at the register, making the payment process go more smoothly.

[0304] 4-2. Ticket Gate System The communication system of the present disclosure can be applied to, for example, a ticket gate system used when passing through a ticket gate at a station.

[0305] 35 is a diagram showing an example in which the communication system of the present disclosure is applied to a ticket gate system, in which the payment terminal 200 is mounted, for example, at the ticket gate.

[0306] 34, in the ticket gate system, for example, zone Z1 is set approximately 50 cm (D1 = 50 cm) from the payment terminal 200 (ticket gate), and zone Z2 is set approximately 500 cm (D2 = 500 cm) from the payment terminal 200.

[0307] For example, a user can perform a pre-processing for passing through a ticket gate while inside a station. Also, the user can execute a process for entering the ticket gate by holding the information processing device 100 over or bringing it close to the payment terminal 200 at the ticket gate without touching it to the payment terminal 200.

[0308] This allows users to pass through ticket gates more smoothly, further reducing congestion.

[0309] Although the communication system of the present disclosure is applied to a ticket gate system at a station, the system to which the communication system of the present disclosure is applied is not limited to a ticket gate system at a station. The communication system of the present disclosure may be applied to, for example, a management system that manages entrance and exit to a specific location (a paid facility such as a movie theater, a zoo, an aquarium, or a theme park).

[0310] 4-3. Parking Lot System The communication system of the present disclosure may be applied to, for example, a parking lot system for settling fees at a parking lot.

[0311] 36 is a diagram showing an example in which the communication system of the present disclosure is applied to a parking lot system, in which payment terminal 200 is placed, for example, near a gate that manages exit from the parking lot.

[0312] 36, in the parking lot system, for example, zone Z1 is set approximately 20 cm (D1 = 20 cm) from payment terminal 200 (or the gate), and zone Z2 is set approximately 200 cm (D2 = 200 cm) from payment terminal 200 (or the gate).

[0313] For example, a user can perform pre-processing in a parking lot while in their car. In this case, zone Z2 may be the area of ​​the parking lot. In this case, the user can perform pre-processing while their car is parked in the parking lot. Furthermore, the user can perform settlement (i.e., the leaving process including the payment process) by bringing the information processing device 100 close to the payment terminal 200 from their car near the gate or by performing a predetermined operation such as flicking the screen.

[0314] Alternatively, if the car is capable of UWB communication, i.e., if the car is equipped with the first communication unit 110, the information processing device 100 may communicate (e.g., perform payment processing) with the payment terminal 200 via the car. In this case, the user can perform payment processing from the car without bringing the information processing device 100 close to the payment terminal 200.

[0315] Alternatively, the leaving process may be performed by the user performing a user action using an input unit installed in the vehicle. For example, the leaving process may be performed by the user performing a predetermined action on a touch panel or button installed in the vehicle. This eliminates the need for the user to operate a smartphone or the like in the car, allowing the leaving process to be performed more smoothly.

[0316] In this case, the car itself may correspond to the information processing device 100 of each of the above-mentioned embodiments, or the car may be an external device that functions as the input / output unit 160 or the first communication unit 110 of the information processing device 100.

[0317] 4-4. Entry / Exit System The communication system of the present disclosure can be applied to, for example, an entry / exit system that manages entry and exit to a room or the like.

[0318] 37 is a diagram showing an example in which the communication system of the present disclosure is applied to an entrance / exit system, in which payment terminal 200 is placed, for example, near a door through which a user enters or exits.

[0319] 37, in the entrance / exit system, for example, zone Z1 is set approximately 20 cm (D1 = 100 cm) from payment terminal 200 (or the door), and zone Z2 is set approximately 300 cm (D2 = 300 cm) from payment terminal 200 (or the door).

[0320] For example, a user can perform pre-processing, including authentication, when they arrive at the floor where the room they are going to enter or leave is located (or when they are in the room), which allows the user to enter and exit the room more smoothly.

[0321] In the application examples to the above-described systems, the communication system may limit the user action for making a payment or the like to either touching the payment terminal 200 or operating the information processing device 100. Alternatively, the communication system may limit the user action to either touching the payment terminal 200 or operating the information processing device 100.

[0322] For example, in the ticket gate system described above, the communication system may limit the user action for making a payment to touching the payment terminal 200. This allows the user to pass through the ticket gate with the same action as before.

[0323] <<5. Hardware Configuration Example>> Fig. 38 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a device, etc. The information processing device 100 described above is realized by, for example, a computer 1000 shown in Fig. 38 .

[0324] The computer 1000 includes a CPU 1100, a RAM 1200, a ROM 1300, a hard disk drive (HDD) 1400, a communication interface 1500, and an input / output interface 1600. The components of the computer 1000 are connected to each other via a bus 1050.

[0325] The CPU 1100 operates and controls each component based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400. For example, the CPU 1100 loads the programs stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400 into the RAM 1200 and executes processing corresponding to the various programs.

[0326] The ROM 1300 stores boot programs such as a Basic Input Output System (BIOS) executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 is started, and programs that depend on the hardware of the computer 1000 .

[0327] The HDD 1400 is a computer-readable storage medium that non-temporarily stores programs executed by the CPU 1100 and data used by such programs. Specifically, the HDD 1400 is a storage medium that stores a program for the information processing method according to the present disclosure, which is an example of program data 1450.

[0328] The communication interface 1500 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to an external network 1550 (e.g., the Internet). For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from other devices and transmits data generated by the CPU 1100 to other devices via the communication interface 1500.

[0329] The input / output interface 1600 is an interface for connecting the input / output device 1650 and the computer 1000. For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from input devices such as a keyboard or a mouse via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 also transmits data to output devices such as a display, a speaker, or a printer via the input / output interface 1600. The input / output interface 1600 may also function as a media interface for reading programs stored on a predetermined computer-readable storage medium. Examples of media include optical storage media such as DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs) and PDs (Phase Change Rewritable Discs), magneto-optical storage media such as MOs (Magneto-Optical Discs), tape media, magnetic storage media, and semiconductor memories.

[0330] When the computer 1000 functions as the information processing device 100 described above, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 executes a program loaded onto the RAM 1200, thereby realizing the functions of the control unit 170. The program may be stored in the HDD 1400. The CPU 1100 reads and executes the program data 1450 from the HDD 1400, but as another example, the CPU 1100 may obtain the program from another device via an external network 1550.

[0331] Each of the above components may be configured using general-purpose components or may be configured using hardware specialized for the function of each component. Such configurations may be changed as appropriate depending on the technical level at the time of implementation.

[0332] <<6. Other Embodiments>> The processing according to the above-described embodiment may be implemented in various different forms other than the above embodiment.

[0333] For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, payment terminal 200 communicates with information processing device 100 via first communication unit 210 installed therein, but this is not limiting. For example, first communication unit 210 may be disposed as an external device to payment terminal 200, such as on the ceiling of a store. Alternatively, the antenna of first communication unit 210 may be disposed away from payment terminal 200, such as on the ceiling of a store.

[0334] Alternatively, for example, payment terminal 200 itself may be placed in a location away from zone Z1, such as on the ceiling (or in a location different from the reference position of each zone). In this case, a store manager or the like may set a reference position for each zone (for example, the starting point of distances D1 and D2; hereinafter, also referred to as the reference position).

[0335] In this case, a dummy device that the user touches (or a device that only performs NFC communication) may be installed at the reference position. Alternatively, the application may not accept a touch to the payment terminal 200 as a user action, but may accept an operation on the information processing device 100.

[0336] In this case, the reference line that serves as the reference for the orientation of the information processing device 100 may be a line connecting the reference position and the information processing device 100, or may be a line connecting the payment terminal 200 placed on the ceiling or the like and the information processing device 100. Alternatively, the application may be configured to accept user actions that are not dependent on the orientation of the information processing device 100.

[0337] Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, the information processing device 100 uses UWB communication to acquire its own location information and to communicate with the payment terminal 200 in the pre-processing and payment processing, but the communication performed by the information processing device 100 is not limited to UWB communication. It is sufficient that the information processing device 100 can securely acquire location information and communicate with the payment terminal 200, and communication other than UWB communication may be used to acquire location information and communicate with the payment terminal 200.

[0338] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments, zones Z1 and Z2 are within a range of a predetermined distance from the payment terminal 200, i.e., are circular (or doughnut-shaped), but the shape of zones Z1 and Z2 is not limited to this. For example, zones Z1 and Z2 may be rectangular or polygonal. The shapes of zones Z1 and Z2 can be set arbitrarily depending on, for example, the arrangement of products and the placement of cash registers (more specifically, the payment terminal 200 and / or the control device 300).

[0339] In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, information processing device 100 uses UWB communication to both acquire location information and communicate with payment terminal 200 (more specifically, control device 300 via payment terminal 200). However, the communication method used by information processing device 100 to acquire location information and the communication method used to communicate with payment terminal 200 may be different.

[0340] For example, the information processing device 100 may acquire location information using UWB communication and communicate with the control device 300 (or a payment server, etc.) using cellular communication. In this case, for example, the information processing device 100 may communicate with another device (for example, the control device 300, etc.) using cellular communication in payment pre-processing, distribution processing, payment processing, etc.

[0341] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using known methods. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information shown in the drawings.

[0342] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are conceptual functional components and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0343] <<7. Conclusion>> The effects described in this disclosure are merely examples and are not limited to the disclosed content. Other effects may also be obtained.

[0344] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure. Furthermore, components of different embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

[0345] The present technology may also be configured as follows. (1) An information processing device that detects a user's location in response to communication with a communication device, executes a first process including an authentication process if the user is located within a first range, and executes a second process after the first process in response to a movement of the user. (2) The information processing device described in (1), which executes the second process when it detects that the user is located within a second range narrower than the first range in response to the user's location. (3) The information processing device described in (2), which executes the second process in response to an instruction from the user located within the second range. (4) The information processing device described in (3), which, when it detects that the distance between the information processing device and a payment terminal has become equal to or less than a predetermined value, determines that the instruction to execute the second process has been received from the user, and executes the second process. (5) The information processing device described in any one of (2) to (4), wherein the second range is a range where the distance from the payment terminal is less than a first distance, and the first range is a range where the distance from the payment terminal is equal to or greater than the first distance and less than a second distance. (6) The information processing device according to (1), wherein, after the first process is executed, if the user instructs execution of the second process within the first range, the second process is executed. (7) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the authentication process includes at least one of a first authentication process for verifying the identity of the user and a second authentication process for verifying that the user is staying within the first range. (8) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the second process is a process for making a payment. (9) The information processing device according to (8), wherein the first process includes a process for presenting the user with information for selecting a type of payment. (10) The information processing device according to (9), wherein the first process includes a confirmation process according to the type of payment selected by the user. (11) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the second process is a process for managing at least one of the user's entry into and exit from a predetermined area.(12) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11), which executes a presentation process of presenting to the user guidance information for guiding the user's action. (13) The information processing device according to (12), wherein the guidance information includes information for guiding the user to give an instruction to execute the second process. (14) The information processing device according to (12), wherein the guidance information includes information for guiding the user to a second range in which the second process is executed. (15) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (14), wherein the communication with the communication device is UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) communication. (16) A communication device which transmits information for detecting a user's position to the information processing device, and, when the user is located within a first range, executes a second process in response to a request made by the information processing device in response to the user's action after the information processing device executes a first process including an authentication process. (17) A communication system comprising: a communication device; and an information processing device that detects a user's location by communicating with the communication device, wherein the information processing device executes a first process including an authentication process when the user is located within a first range, and executes a second process after executing the first process according to an action of the user.

[0346] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Information processing device 110, 210 First communication unit 111, 211 First communication module 112, 212 First communication control unit 120, 220 Second communication unit 121, 221 Second communication module 122, 222 Second communication control unit 130, 230 Secure element 140, 240 Third communication unit 150, 250 Storage unit 160 Input / output unit 170, 260 Control unit 200 Payment terminal 241 Third communication module 242 Third communication control unit 300 Control device

Claims

1. An information processing device that detects a user's location in response to communication with a communication device, executes a first process including an authentication process if the user is located within a first range, and executes a second process after the first process in response to the user's actions.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the second process is executed when it is detected that the user is located in a second range narrower than the first range, depending on the location of the user.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the second process is executed in response to an instruction from the user located in the second range.

4. An information processing device as described in claim 3, which, when it detects that the distance between its own device and the payment terminal has fallen below a predetermined value, determines that the user has given the instruction to execute the second process, and executes the second process.

5. An information processing device as described in claim 2, wherein the second range is a range where the distance from the payment terminal is less than a first distance, and the first range is a range where the distance from the payment terminal is equal to or greater than the first distance and less than a second distance.

6. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein, after the first process is executed, if the user instructs execution of the second process within the first range, the second process is executed.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the authentication process includes at least one of a first authentication process for verifying the identity of the user and a second authentication process for verifying that the user is staying within the first range.

8. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the second process is a process for making a payment.

9. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein the first processing includes a process of presenting information for selecting the type of payment to the user.

10. The information processing device according to claim 9, wherein the first processing includes a confirmation processing according to the type of payment selected by the user.

11. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the second process is a process for managing at least one of the user's entry into a predetermined area and his / her exit from a predetermined area.

12. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a presentation process for presenting to the user guidance information for guiding the user's action.

13. The information processing device according to claim 12, wherein the guidance information includes information for guiding the user to give an instruction to execute the second process.

14. The information processing device according to claim 12, wherein the guidance information includes information for guiding the user to a second range in which the second process is executed.

15. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the communication with the communication device is UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) communication.

16. A communication device that transmits information for detecting a user's location to an information processing device, and when the user is located within a first range, the information processing device performs a first process including an authentication process, and then performs a second process in response to a request made by the information processing device in response to an action of the user.

17. A communication system comprising: a communication device; and an information processing device that detects a user's location by communicating with the communication device, wherein the information processing device executes a first process including an authentication process when the user is located within a first range, and executes a second process after executing the first process in accordance with the user's actions.

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