Train ticket processing system and train ticket processing method

Abstract

Provided are a train ticket processing system and a train ticket processing method with which it is possible to reduce the amount of cash handled by a railway company at a station. A train ticket processing system according to the present disclosure comprises a railway company device of a railway company, and an affiliated company device of an affiliated company affiliated with the railway company. The affiliated company device receives train ticket request information pertaining to a user and first biological information pertaining to the user. The affiliated company device generates train ticket information on the basis of the train ticket request information, and transmits the first biological information and the train ticket information in association with each other to the railway company device. The railway company device receives the first biological information and the train ticket information. The railway company device also receives second biological information pertaining to the user when the user passes through a ticket gate at the station of the railway company, and collates the first biological information with the second biological information. The railway company device determines whether the train ticket information associated with the collated first biological information is appropriate, and, when said train ticket information is appropriate, sets the use state of the train ticket information to either starting or ending.

Description

Ticket processing system and ticket processing method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a ticket processing system and a ticket processing method.

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses a railway company system. Specifically, Patent Literature 1 allows a user to purchase a train ticket using a portable electronic device. When the user purchases a train ticket (e.g., with cash), the portable electronic device acquires a facial image of the user and transmits it to a server. When the user passes through a ticket gate, the server determines whether the user is allowed to pass through by performing facial authentication using facial feature values.

[0003] JP 2012-079157 A

[0004] When railway companies (also called railway operators) handle a lot of cash, the following problems arise: - It takes a lot of time for the railway company to prepare change for ticket vending machines and to manage the cash in ticket vending machines. - It increases the railway company's personnel costs. - There is little variety in the ways tickets can be purchased. - Because most tickets are magnetic, there are costs for magnetic ticket compatible equipment in automatic ticket gates and maintenance costs for the equipment. - It takes time to deal with problems with ticket vending machines and automatic ticket gates at stations.

[0005] However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a problem in that the amount of cash handled by railway companies cannot be reduced because the system involves the complete transfer of cash within the railway company.

[0006] In consideration of such issues, the present disclosure aims to provide a ticket processing system and a ticket processing method that can reduce the amount of cash that railway companies handle at stations.

[0007] The ticket processing system disclosed herein comprises: a railway company device managed by a railway company; and an affiliate company device that communicates with the railway company device and is managed by an affiliate company that is affiliated with the railway company; the affiliate company device comprises: a receiving unit that receives ticket request information required to purchase a ticket for a user and first biometric information of the user; a ticket generation unit that generates ticket information based on the ticket request information; and a transmitting unit that associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the associated information to the railway company device; and the railway company device comprises: a receiving unit that receives the associated first biometric information with the ticket information from the affiliate company device, and receives second biometric information of the user when the user passes through a ticket gate at a station of the railway company; a matching unit that matches the first biometric information with the second biometric information; and a ticket determination unit that determines whether the ticket information associated with the matched first biometric information is appropriate, and if it is determined to be appropriate, sets the usage status of the ticket information to either start or end.

[0008] The ticket processing method disclosed herein is a method executed by a railway company device managed by a railway company and an affiliate company device that communicates with the railway company device and is managed by an affiliate company that is affiliated with the railway company, wherein the affiliate company device receives ticket request information required to purchase a ticket for a user and first biometric information of the user, generates ticket information based on the ticket request information, associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the associated information to the railway company device, and the railway company device receives the associated first biometric information with the ticket information from the affiliate company device, receives second biometric information of the user when the user passes through a ticket gate at a station of the railway company, compares the first biometric information with the second biometric information, determines whether the ticket information associated with the compared first biometric information is appropriate, and if determined to be appropriate, sets the usage status of the ticket information to either started or ended.

[0009] The present disclosure can provide a ticket processing system and a ticket processing method that can reduce the amount of cash handled by railway companies.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a ticket processing system 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a ticket processing system 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation when a user purchases a ticket in the ticket processing system 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation when a user purchases a ticket in the ticket processing system 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation before a user boards in the ticket processing system 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation after a user boards in the ticket processing system 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the operation of paying consideration from an affiliated company to a railway company in the ticket processing system 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer 1000 according to the present embodiment.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and for clarity of explanation, duplicate explanations will be omitted as necessary.

[0012] First Embodiment First, the configuration of a ticket processing system 1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0013] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a ticket processing system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the ticket processing system 1 includes a railway company device 30A and an affiliate company device 20A. The railway company device 30A is a device managed by the railway company. The affiliate company device 20A communicates with the railway company device 30A and is a device managed by an affiliate company that is affiliated with the railway company.

[0014] The affiliate company device 20A includes a receiving unit 22A, a ticket generating unit 24A, and a transmitting unit 23A. The receiving unit 22A receives ticket request information requested to purchase a ticket for a user and the user's first biometric information. The ticket generating unit 24A generates ticket information based on the ticket request information. The transmitting unit 23A associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits them to the railway company device.

[0015] The railway company device 30A includes a receiving unit 32A, a matching unit 34A, and a ticket determination unit 35A. The receiving unit 32A receives first biometric information and ticket information from the affiliated company device 20A, associating them with each other. The receiving unit 32A also receives the user's second biometric information when the user passes through a ticket gate at a railway company station. The matching unit 34A matches the first biometric information with the second biometric information. The ticket determination unit 35A determines whether the ticket information associated with the matched first biometric information is appropriate. If the ticket determination unit 35A determines that the ticket information is appropriate, it sets the usage status of the ticket information to either started or ended.

[0016] In the ticket processing system 1 according to the first embodiment, the railway company can have its affiliated company take over the collection of cash from users who purchase tickets, thereby reducing the amount of cash handled by the railway company.

[0017] Second Embodiment Next, the configuration of a ticket processing system 2 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0018] The ticket processing system 2 of this embodiment is a specific embodiment of the ticket processing system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0019] In this embodiment, a "railway company" refers to a business operator that operates a railway (or track) business. On the other hand, an "affiliated company" is a company different from the railway company and affiliated with the railway company. An affiliated company is a company that operates cash handling machines installed in railway company stations, around stations, and other locations. An affiliated company is a retail or service industry that allows cash payments in exchange for selling goods or providing services. For example, an affiliated company is a convenience store company that operates cash register terminals (self-checkouts and semi-self-checkouts), ATMs, and multi-function printers installed in convenience stores. Another affiliated company is an ATM operating company that operates ATMs within train stations. A "user" is a customer who uses a railway company's trains.

[0020] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ticket processing system 2 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the ticket processing system 2 includes an operation device 10, an affiliate company device 20, a railway company device 30, an entrance ticket gate 40, and an exit ticket gate 50.

[0021] In this embodiment, the operation device 10 and the affiliate company device 20 are devices managed by the affiliate company. In other words, the operation device 10 and the affiliate company device 20 are components of an affiliate company system, which is a system managed by the affiliate company. The railway company device 30, the entrance ticket gate 40, and the exit ticket gate 50 are devices managed by the railway company. In other words, the railway company device 30, the entrance ticket gate 40, and the exit ticket gate 50 are components of a railway company system, which is a system managed by the railway company.

[0022] <Operation Device> The operation device 10 is a device that can be operated by a user. The operation device 10 is a device that can handle cash, such as a cash register terminal, an ATM, or a multi-function peripheral. The operation device 10 is installed in a railway station, around the station, or other locations. For example, the operation device 10 is installed in a convenience store. The operation device 10 communicates with the partner company device 20 via a network.

[0023] The operation device 10 may be a device that is installed as one function in a device that can handle cash, such as a cash register terminal, or may be a device such as a tablet or dedicated terminal that is independent of a device such as a cash register terminal. Furthermore, the operation device 10 is not limited to being installed in a convenience store, but may also be installed in a store other than a convenience store, or in other facilities such as a train station.

[0024] Specifically, the operation device 10 includes a receiving unit 11 , a transmitting unit 12 , a ticket request information input unit 13 , a first biometric information input unit 14 , a payment unit 15 , and a purchase certificate output unit 16 .

[0025] The receiving unit 11 receives data from the partner company device 20. The transmitting unit 12 transmits data to the partner company device 20.

[0026] The ticket request information input unit 13 accepts input of ticket request information from the user via an interface such as a touch panel. The ticket request information is information requested by the system in order for the user to purchase a ticket. The ticket request information includes, for example, the boarding station, the disembarking station, the fare, and a special fee (hereinafter referred to as the special fee) that is charged in addition to the fare. The special fee includes, for example, a fee corresponding to the vehicle type (express train or Shinkansen) or seat type (paid seat) that allows special services to be enjoyed. Note that the ticket request information may also include the vehicle type (regular train, express train, or Shinkansen) and seat type (regular seat or paid seat). After accepting the input, the transmission unit 12 transmits the user's ticket request information to the affiliate company device 20.

[0027] The first biometric information input unit 14 accepts input of first biometric information from the user using a camera, sensor, etc. The first biometric information includes the user's face information (e.g., facial features), iris information, fingerprint information, palm print information, and skeletal information. After accepting the input, the transmission unit 12 transmits the user's first biometric information to the partner company device 20.

[0028] The payment unit 15 accepts payment of the fee for the ticket information from the partner company device 20 by the user after receiving a payment instruction from the partner company device 20. The transmission unit 12 transmits the user's payment information to the partner company device 20. The payment information is information indicating that the user has paid the fee for the ticket information to the partner company.

[0029] The purchase certificate output unit 16 outputs a purchase certificate to the user using a printer or the like based on the purchase certificate information received from the partner company device 20. This is a printout to prove that the fare for the ticket information has been paid. The purchase certificate may also serve as a receipt.

[0030] <Affiliate Company Device> The partner company device 20 is, for example, a server built on the cloud. The partner company device 20 communicates with each of the operation device 10 and the railway company device 30 via a network.

[0031] Specifically, the partner company device 20 includes a memory unit 21 , a receiver unit 22 , a transmitter unit 23 , a ticket generator unit 24 , a purchase certificate generator unit 25 , a memory manager unit 26 , and a price calculator unit 27 .

[0032] The storage unit 21 stores various types of information. The receiving unit 22 receives data from each of the operation device 10 and the railway company device 30. The transmitting unit 23 transmits data to each of the operation device 10 and the railway company device 30.

[0033] The receiving unit 22 acquires the user's ticket request information from the operation device 10. The ticket generation unit 24 generates ticket information based on the ticket request information received from the operation device 10. The ticket information is a digitized ticket. The ticket information includes information such as the boarding station, the disembarking station, the fare, the special fare, the ticket expiration date, and the usage status of the ticket (unused, started, or ended). The ticket information may also include information such as the vehicle type and seat type. The receiving unit 22 also acquires the user's first biometric information from the operation device 10. The receiving unit 22 associates the first biometric information with the ticket information generated by the ticket generation unit 24 and stores it in the memory unit 21.

[0034] The transmitting unit 23 transmits to the operation device 10 a payment instruction, which is an instruction to request the user to pay the fee for the ticket information to the affiliated company. Here, the fee for the ticket information includes the fare and special charges. Then, the receiving unit 22 receives the user's payment information from the operation device 10. After receiving the user's payment information, the purchase certificate generation unit 25 generates purchase certificate information based on the ticket information and the payment information. Then, the transmitting unit 23 transmits the purchase certificate information to the operation device 10. Also, after receiving the user's payment information, the transmitting unit 23 associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits them to the railway company device 30. After associating the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmitting them to the railway company device 30, the memory management unit 26 erases the first biometric information from the memory unit 21. When erasing the first biometric information, the memory management unit 26 stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information and a number that does not identify an individual in association with each other.

[0035] The compensation calculation unit 27 calculates the sales record of the ticket information for a predetermined period. The affiliated company receives cash from each user when the user purchases a ticket. The sales record is the actual amount of cash received from each user. The compensation calculation unit 27 calculates compensation from the affiliated company to the railway company based on the sales record. The compensation is a fee paid to the railway company. For example, the compensation is set to a fee obtained by subtracting a commission from the sales record of the ticket information. Then, the transmission unit 23 transmits information on the calculated compensation (compensation information) to the railway company device 30.

[0036] <Railway Company Device> The railway company device 30 is, for example, a server built on the cloud. The railway company device 30 communicates with the partner company device 20, the entrance ticket gate 40, and the exit ticket gate 50 via a network.

[0037] The railway company device 30 includes a memory unit 31, a receiving unit 32, a transmitting unit 33, a collating unit 34, a ticket determining unit 35, and a memory management unit 36.

[0038] The memory unit 31 stores various information. The receiver 32 receives data from each of the partner company device 20, the entrance ticket gate 40, and the exit ticket gate 50. The transmitter 33 transmits data to each of the partner company device 20, the entrance ticket gate 40, and the exit ticket gate 50.

[0039] The receiving unit 32 acquires the first biometric information and the ticket information in association with each other from the partner company device 20. The receiving unit 32 then stores the first biometric information and the ticket information in association with each other in the storage unit 31.

[0040] When the user enters a railway company's entrance gate 40, the receiving unit 32 receives the user's second biometric information from the entrance gate 40. The second biometric information, like the first biometric information, includes the user's facial information (e.g., facial features), iris information, fingerprint information, palmprint information, and skeletal information. After receiving the user's second biometric information from the entrance gate 40, the matching unit 34 matches the second biometric information with the first biometric information stored in the memory unit 31. If the features included in the second biometric information match the features included in the first biometric information by a predetermined standard or more, the matching unit 34 determines that the matching is successful. On the other hand, if the features included in the second biometric information do not match the features included in the first biometric information by a predetermined standard or more, the matching unit 34 determines that the matching is unsuccessful. If the matching is successful, the ticket determining unit 35 obtains ticket information associated with the matched first biometric information from the memory unit 31. The ticket determining unit 35 determines whether the ticket information is appropriate. If the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is appropriate, it allows the user to enter the entrance ticket gate 40. Then, the ticket determination unit 35 starts the usage status of the ticket information from unused. On the other hand, if the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is inappropriate, it denies the user entry to the entrance ticket gate 40. The ticket determination unit 35 also denies the user entry to the entrance ticket gate 40 if the matching fails.

[0041] Furthermore, when the user exits through the railway company's exit ticket gate 50, the receiving unit 32 receives the user's second biometric information from the exit ticket gate 50. After receiving the user's second biometric information from the exit ticket gate 50, the matching unit 34 matches the second biometric information with the first biometric information stored in the memory unit 31. If the matching is successful, the ticket determination unit 35 acquires from the memory unit 31 the ticket information associated with the matched first biometric information. The ticket determination unit 35 determines whether the ticket information is appropriate. If the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is appropriate, the ticket determination unit 35 permits the user to exit through the exit ticket gate 50. Then, the ticket determination unit 35 changes the usage state of the ticket information from start to end. On the other hand, if the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is inappropriate, the ticket determination unit 35 denies the user from exiting through the exit ticket gate 50. The ticket determination unit 35 also denies the user from exiting through the exit ticket gate 50 if the matching fails.

[0042] The receiving unit 32 also receives from the affiliate company device 20 information on the compensation calculated according to the sales performance of the ticket information and paid by the affiliate company to the railway company.

[0043] <Entrance Ticket Gate> The entrance ticket gate 40 is a ticket gate installed at the entrance to the station platform. The entrance ticket gate 40 communicates with the railway company device 30 via a network.

[0044] The entrance ticket gate 40 includes a receiving unit 41, a transmitting unit 42, and a second biometric information input unit 43. The receiving unit 41 receives data from the railway company device 30. The transmitting unit 42 transmits data to the railway company device 30.

[0045] The second biometric information input unit 43 detects the user's entry into the entrance ticket gate 40 using a camera, a sensor, etc. Then, the second biometric information input unit 43 accepts input of the user's second biometric information using a camera, a sensor, etc. Then, the transmission unit 42 transmits the user's second biometric information to the railway company device 30.

[0046] <Exit Ticket Gate> The exit ticket gate 50 is a ticket gate installed at the exit of a station platform. The exit ticket gate 50 communicates with the railway company device 30 via a network.

[0047] The exit ticket gate 50 includes a receiving unit 51, a transmitting unit 52, and a second biometric information input unit 53. The receiving unit 51 receives data from the railway company device 30. The transmitting unit 52 transmits data to the railway company device 30.

[0048] The second biometric information input unit 53 detects the user's exit from the exit ticket gate 50 using a camera, a sensor, etc., and then accepts input of the user's second biometric information using the camera, a sensor, etc. The transmission unit 52 transmits the user's second biometric information to the railway company device 30.

[0049] Next, with reference to Figures 3 to 6, the operations of the ticket processing system 2 according to the second embodiment when a user purchases a ticket, before the user boards the train, and after the user disembarks will be described.

[0050] First, a user who is planning to board a train operated by a railway company enters a convenience store managed by an affiliated company that is affiliated with the railway company. The convenience store has an operation device 10, which is a self-checkout terminal. The user operates the operation device 10.

[0051] 3 and 4 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the ticket processing system 2 according to this embodiment when a user purchases a ticket.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 3 , in step S101, the ticket request information input unit 13 of the operation device 10 accepts input of ticket request information from the user. The ticket request information is information that the system requests in order for the user to purchase a ticket. The ticket request information includes, for example, information on the boarding station, the disembarking station, the fare, and the special fare. Then, in step S102, the transmission unit 12 transmits the user's ticket request information to the affiliate company device 20.

[0053] Next, in step S103, the receiving unit 22 of the affiliated company device 20 receives the user's ticket request information. Then, in step S104, the ticket generating unit 24 generates ticket information based on the received ticket request information. The ticket information is a digitalized ticket. The ticket information includes, for example, information on the boarding station, the disembarking station, the fare, the special fare, the ticket expiration date and time, and the ticket usage status (unused, started, or ended).

[0054] Next, in step S105, the first biometric information input unit 14 of the operation device 10 accepts input of the user's first biometric information. For example, the first biometric information input unit 14 extracts the user's facial information (facial features) from the user's facial image and accepts input of the extracted facial information as the first biometric information. Note that the first biometric information is not limited to facial information, and may be iris information, fingerprint information, palm print information, or skeletal information. Then, in step S106, the transmission unit 12 transmits the user's first biometric information to the affiliate company device 20.

[0055] Next, in step S107, the receiving unit 22 of the affiliated company device 20 receives the first biometric information of the user. Then, in step S108, the receiving unit 22 associates the received first biometric information with the generated ticket information and stores them in the storage unit 21.

[0056] Next, as shown in Fig. 4, in step S201, the transmitting unit 23 of the partner company device 20 transmits a payment instruction to the operation device 10. The payment instruction is an instruction to request the user to pay the fee for the ticket information to the partner company. Here, the fee for the ticket information includes the fare and special fee.

[0057] Next, in step S202, the receiving unit 11 of the operation device 10 receives a payment instruction. Next, in step S203, the payment unit 15 accepts payment of the fare for the ticket information from the user to the affiliated company in cash based on the payment instruction. At this time, the payment unit 15 may adopt a payment method other than cash, such as QR code (registered trademark) payment or credit card payment, if such a method is available. Next, in step S204, the sending unit 12 transmits the user's payment information to the affiliated company device 20. The payment information is information indicating that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliated company.

[0058] Next, in step S205, the receiving unit 22 of the affiliated company device 20 receives the user's payment information from the operation device 10. Next, in step S206, the purchase certificate generation unit 25 generates purchase certificate information based on the user's ticket information and payment information. The purchase certificate information is information for proving that the fare for the ticket information has been paid. Note that the purchase certificate information may also include ticket information such as the travel section and fare. Next, in step S207, the transmission unit 23 transmits the generated purchase certificate information to the operation device 10.

[0059] Next, in step S208, the receiving unit 11 of the operation device 10 receives purchase certificate information from the affiliated company device 20. Next, in step S209, the purchase certificate output unit 16 outputs a purchase certificate based on the purchase certificate information. The purchase certificate is a printout that certifies that the fare for the ticket information has been paid. Note that the purchase certificate may include a two-dimensional barcode that can be used as a ticket in case biometric authentication verification is not available when the user passes through the entrance ticket gate 40 or the exit ticket gate 50.

[0060] Furthermore, in step S210, the transmission unit 23 of the affiliated company device 20 associates the user's first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits them to the railway company device 30. Next, in step S211, the memory management unit 26 erases the user's first biometric information from the memory unit 21. Here, "erasing" means erasing the information in a way that makes it impossible to restore. When erasing the user's first biometric information, the memory management unit 26 stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information and a number that does not identify the individual in association with each other. Note that if information that can identify an individual, such as payment information or purchase certificate information, is stored in the memory unit 21, the memory management unit 26 may erase that information.

[0061] Next, in step S212, the receiving unit 32 of the railway company device 30 receives the user's first biometric information and the ticket information in association with each other from the affiliated company device 20. In step S213, the receiving unit 32 stores the user's first biometric information and the ticket information in association with each other in the storage unit 31.

[0062] Next, the user leaves the convenience store. After that, the user heads to the station to board a train operated by a railway company. The user then attempts to enter through an entrance ticket gate 40 installed at the station.

[0063] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a user's pre-boarding operation in the ticket processing system 2 according to this embodiment.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 5 , in step S301, the second biometric information input unit 43 of the entrance ticket gate 40 detects the user's entry into the entrance ticket gate 40. For example, the second biometric information input unit 43 detects the user's facial outline contained in a facial image. Next, in step S302, the second biometric information input unit 43 accepts input of the user's second biometric information. For example, the second biometric information input unit 43 extracts the user's facial information (facial features) from the facial image and accepts input of the extracted facial information as the second biometric information. Note that the second biometric information is not limited to facial information, and may also be iris information, fingerprint information, palm print information, or skeletal information. Then, in step S303, the transmission unit 42 transmits the user's second biometric information to the railway company device 30.

[0065] Next, in step S304, the receiving unit 32 of the railway company device 30 acquires the user's second biometric information from the entrance ticket gate 40. Next, in step S305, the matching unit 34 matches the user's second biometric information with the first biometric information stored in the storage unit 31. Here, the matching unit 34 determines that the matching is successful if the feature amounts included in the second biometric information and the feature amounts included in the first biometric information match by a predetermined standard or more. On the other hand, the matching unit 34 determines that the matching is unsuccessful if the feature amounts included in the second biometric information and the feature amounts included in the first biometric information do not match by the predetermined standard or more.

[0066] Next, in step S306, the ticket verification unit 35 determines whether the verification was successful. If it is determined that the verification was successful (YES in step S306), the process proceeds to step S307. On the other hand, if it is determined that the verification was unsuccessful (NO in step S306), the process proceeds to step S311.

[0067] In step S307, the ticket determination unit 35 acquires, from the storage unit 31, the ticket information associated with the verified first biometric information. Next, in step S308, the ticket determination unit 35 determines whether the ticket information is appropriate. For example, the ticket determination unit 35 determines whether the boarding station in the user's ticket information matches the station where the entrance ticket gate 40 is installed. If they match, the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is appropriate. On the other hand, if they do not match, the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is inappropriate. The ticket determination unit 35 also determines whether the usage status of the user's ticket information is unused or in use (started or completed). If the usage status of the user's ticket information is unused, the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is appropriate. On the other hand, if the usage status is in use (started or completed), the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is inappropriate. If it is determined that the ticket information is appropriate (YES in step S308), the processing proceeds to step S309. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ticket information is not appropriate (NO in step S308), the process proceeds to step S311.

[0068] In step S309, the ticket validation unit 35 permits the user to enter the entrance ticket gate 40. Then, in step S310, the ticket validation unit 35 sets the usage state of the ticket information to "start."

[0069] In step S311, the ticket validation unit 35 denies the user entry to the entrance ticket gate 40. In this case, for example, the transmission unit 33 transmits to the entrance ticket gate 40 an instruction to close the gate of the entrance ticket gate 40.

[0070] Next, the user enters through an entrance ticket gate 40. The user then boards a train and gets off at another station managed by the railway company. After that, the user attempts to exit through an exit ticket gate 50 installed at the station.

[0071] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the ticket processing system 2 according to this embodiment after the user gets off the train.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 6 , in step S401, the second biometric information input unit 53 of the exit ticket gate 50 detects the user's exit from the exit ticket gate 50. For example, the second biometric information input unit 53 detects the user's facial outline contained in a facial image. Next, in step S402, the second biometric information input unit 53 accepts input of the user's second biometric information. For example, the second biometric information input unit 53 extracts the user's facial information (facial features) from the facial image and accepts input of the extracted facial information as the second biometric information. Note that the second biometric information is not limited to facial information, and may also be iris information, fingerprint information, palm print information, or skeletal information. Then, in step S403, the transmission unit 52 transmits the user's second biometric information to the railway company device 30.

[0073] Next, in step S404, the receiving unit 32 of the railway company device 30 acquires the user's second biometric information from the exit ticket gate 50. Next, in step S405, the matching unit 34 matches the user's second biometric information with the first biometric information stored in the storage unit 31. Here, the matching unit 34 determines that the matching is successful if the feature amounts included in the second biometric information and the feature amounts included in the first biometric information match by a predetermined standard or more. On the other hand, the matching unit 34 determines that the matching is unsuccessful if the feature amounts included in the second biometric information and the feature amounts included in the first biometric information do not match by the predetermined standard or more.

[0074] Next, in step S406, the ticket verification unit 35 determines whether the verification was successful. If it is determined that the verification was successful (YES in step S406), the process proceeds to step S407. On the other hand, if it is determined that the verification was unsuccessful (NO in step S406), the process proceeds to step S412.

[0075] In step S407, the ticket determination unit 35 acquires, from the storage unit 31, the ticket information associated with the verified first biometric information. Next, in step S408, the ticket determination unit 35 determines whether the ticket information is appropriate. For example, the ticket determination unit 35 determines whether the disembarking station in the user's ticket information matches the station where the exit ticket gate 50 is installed. If they match, the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is appropriate. On the other hand, if they do not match, the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is inappropriate. Furthermore, the ticket determination unit 35 determines whether the usage status of the user's ticket information is unused, completed, or started. If the usage status of the user's ticket information is started, the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is appropriate. On the other hand, if the usage status is unused or completed, the ticket determination unit 35 determines that the ticket information is inappropriate. If it is determined that the ticket information is appropriate (YES in step S408), the processing proceeds to step S409. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ticket information is not appropriate (NO in step S408), the process proceeds to step S412.

[0076] In step S409, the ticket determination unit 35 permits the user to exit through the exit ticket gate 50. Next, in step S410, the ticket determination unit 35 terminates the usage state of the ticket information. Next, in step S411, the memory management unit 36 ​​erases the first biometric information associated with the ticket information from the memory unit 31. Here, erasing means erasing the information in a manner that makes it impossible to restore. At this time, the memory management unit 36 ​​associates the ticket information associated with the first biometric information with a number that does not identify an individual and stores them in the memory unit 31. Note that if information that can identify an individual, such as second biometric information, is stored in the memory unit 21, the memory management unit 26 may erase that information.

[0077] In step S412, the ticket validation unit 35 denies the user from exiting through the exit ticket gate 50. In this case, for example, the transmission unit 33 transmits to the exit ticket gate 50 an instruction to close the gate of the exit ticket gate 50.

[0078] In the ticket processing system 2 according to the second embodiment, the railway company can have an affiliated company take over the collection of cash from users who purchase tickets. In this way, the ticket processing system 2 can reduce the amount of cash handled by the railway company.

[0079] Furthermore, it is desirable to store the history of ticket information because it can be utilized for railway services, etc. However, if ticket information is stored in association with personal information, there is a risk of the personal information being leaked. In the ticket processing system 2, the affiliate company device 20 and the railway company device 30 can erase personal information such as the first biometric information after use. Therefore, the ticket processing system 2 can reduce the risk of personal information being leaked. Furthermore, the ticket processing system 2 can reduce resources required for storing information. Furthermore, in the ticket processing system 2, the affiliate company device 20 and the railway company device 30 can store ticket information in association with a number that does not identify individuals. Therefore, the ticket processing system 2 can reduce the risk of personal information being leaked and reduce resources required for information storage, while also enabling the ticket information to be utilized for railway services, etc.

[0080] Next, the operation of paying the fare from the affiliated company to the railway company in the ticket processing system 2 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0081] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a payment operation from an affiliated company to a railway company in the ticket processing system 2 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, first, in step S501, the payment calculation unit 27 of the affiliated company device 20 calculates the sales performance of the ticket information for a predetermined period. The affiliated company receives cash from each user when the user purchases a ticket. The sales performance is the actual amount of cash received from each user.

[0082] Next, in step S502, the fee calculation unit 27 calculates the fee to be paid to the railway company based on the sales record. The fee is a fee to be paid to the railway company. For example, the fee is set to a fee obtained by subtracting a commission (i.e., a fee paid to the affiliated company by the railway company) from the sales record of the ticket information. At this time, the fee calculation unit 27 may compare the sales record of the ticket information with the usage record of the ticket information in the railway company device 30.

[0083] The commission fee may be increased or decreased dynamically based on specific requirements. The specific requirements are determined based on the convenience of at least one of the railway company and the partner company. For example, the commission fee may be increased or decreased dynamically based on the goal of attracting passengers to the railway company or the partner company. Specifically, the railway company plans a limited-time round-trip travel campaign in a specific area. The railway company wants its partner company to attract users to the specific area and period. In this case, the commission rate is increased only for the price calculated from the ticket information purchased by users at stations in the specific area during the specific period. This increases the commission amount paid by the railway company to the partner company. Using the increased commission amount as a source of funds, stores in the specific area of ​​the partner company offer product discounts or free services to users who show the screen of their used ticket during the target period. Furthermore, the partner company aims to attract customers to its stores in the specific area. The partner company wants users to use the train to attract users to the specific area. In this case, the commission rate is reduced only for the ticket information purchased by users in the specific area during the period that meets the conditions. This reduces the commission paid by the railway company to the partner company, and the railway company uses the reduced commission amount as a source of funds to display advertisements and digital signage information in stations and on trains encouraging customers to visit the partner company's stores in that specific area.

[0084] Next, in step S503, the transmitting unit 23 transmits information on the calculated compensation (compensation information) to the railway company device 30.

[0085] Next, in step S504 , the receiving unit 32 of the railway company device 30 receives the consideration information from the partner company device 20 .

[0086] In the ticket processing system 2 according to the second embodiment, the affiliated company transfers to the railway company the amount of the ticket sales record minus fees, etc., at predetermined intervals. Therefore, in the ticket processing system 2, the railway company can collect the amount of the ticket used.

[0087] (Variation of the Second Embodiment) In a variation of the second embodiment, the ticket processing system 2 may have a function of refunding the ticket information to the user. For example, the affiliate company device 20 receives the user's first biometric information and a request for refund of the ticket information from the operation device 10. The affiliate company device 20 deletes the received first biometric information and the ticket information associated with the first biometric information from the information stored in the storage unit 21. The affiliate company device 20 transmits an instruction to the operation device 10 to refund the fare paid by the user for purchasing the ticket information. Here, if the affiliate company device 20 has already transmitted the user's ticket information to the railway company device 30, it transmits an instruction to the railway company device 30 to delete the first biometric information and the ticket information associated with the first biometric information. After receiving the instruction, the railway company device 30 deletes the first biometric information and the ticket information associated with the first biometric information from the storage unit 31.

[0088] <Hardware Configuration> Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer 1000 according to this embodiment. Each device (e.g., the affiliate company device 20 and the railway company device 30) of the ticket processing system 1 and the ticket processing system 2 described above is realized by the computer 1000. As shown in Fig. 8, the computer 1000 includes a processor 1001, a memory 1002, and a network interface 1003. The network interface 1003 may be used to communicate with a network node. The network interface 1003 may include, for example, a network interface card (NIC) conforming to the IEEE 802.3 series. IEEE stands for Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

[0089] The processor 1001 reads one or more programs, each containing a set of instructions for causing a computer to execute an algorithm (method) described using the drawings, from the memory 1002, and executes the read programs. The processor 1001 may be, for example, a microprocessor, an MPU, or a CPU. The processor 1001 may include multiple processors.

[0090] The memory 1002 is configured by a combination of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The memory 1002 stores programs. The memory 1002 may include storage located away from the processor 1001. In this case, the processor 1001 may access the memory 1002 via an I / O (Input / Output) interface (not shown).

[0091] In the above examples, the program includes instructions (or software code) that, when loaded into a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more functions described in the embodiments. The program may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium or a tangible storage medium. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable medium or tangible storage medium includes random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage device. The program may also be transmitted on a transitory computer-readable medium or communication medium. By way of example and not limitation, transitory computer-readable medium or communication medium includes electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0092] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present disclosure within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0093] Each drawing is merely an example for describing one or more embodiments. Each drawing may not relate to only one particular embodiment, but may also relate to one or more other embodiments. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various features or steps described with reference to any one drawing can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings to create, for example, an embodiment not explicitly shown or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one drawing are necessary to describe an exemplary embodiment, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of steps described in any drawing may be changed as appropriate.

[0094] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the invention.

[0095] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes. a receiving unit that receives the first biometric information and the ticket information associated with each other from the affiliated company device, and receives second biometric information of the user when the user passes through a ticket gate at a station of the railway company; a matching unit that matches the first biometric information with the second biometric information; and a ticket determination unit that determines whether the ticket information associated with the matched first biometric information is appropriate, and sets the usage status of the ticket information to either started or ended if it is determined to be appropriate. (Supplementary Note 2) The ticket processing system of Supplementary Note 1, wherein the receiving unit of the affiliated company device receives payment information indicating that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliated company, and the transmitting unit of the affiliated company device, after receiving the payment information, associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the associated information to the railway company device. (Supplementary Note 3) The ticket processing system of Supplementary Note 2, wherein the payment information indicates that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliated company in cash. (Supplementary Note 4) The ticket processing system of Supplementary Note 1, wherein the affiliated company device further comprises: a memory unit that stores the first biometric information and the ticket information in association with each other, and a memory management unit that erases the first biometric information stored in association with the ticket information after the associated first biometric information and the ticket information have been transmitted to the railway company device.(Supplementary Note 5) The ticket processing system of Supplementary Note 1, wherein the railway company device further comprises: a memory unit that stores the first biometric information received from the affiliated company device in association with the ticket information, and a memory management unit that erases the first biometric information stored in association with the ticket information when the usage state of the ticket information is terminated. (Supplementary Note 6) The ticket processing system of Supplementary Note 4, wherein the memory management unit of the affiliated company device, when erasing the first biometric information, stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information and a number that does not identify an individual, in association with each other. (Supplementary Note 7) The ticket processing system of Supplementary Note 5, wherein the memory management unit of the railway company device, when erasing the first biometric information, stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information and a number that does not identify an individual, in association with each other. (Appendix 8) The ticket processing system described in Appendix 2, wherein the affiliate company device further includes a compensation calculation unit that calculates sales results of the ticket information for a predetermined period and calculates compensation from the affiliate company to the railway company based on the calculated sales results, a transmitting unit of the affiliate company device transmits information on the calculated compensation to the railway company device, and a receiving unit of the railway company device receives information on the compensation from the affiliate company device. (Supplementary Note 9) A ticket processing method executed by a railway company device managed by a railway company and an affiliate company device that communicates with the railway company device and is managed by an affiliate company that is affiliated with the railway company, wherein the affiliate company device receives ticket request information requested to purchase a ticket for a user and first biometric information of the user, generates ticket information based on the ticket request information, associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the associated information to the railway company device, and the railway company device receives the associated first biometric information with the ticket information from the affiliate company device, receives second biometric information of the user when the user passes through a ticket gate at a station of the railway company, compares the first biometric information with the second biometric information, determines whether the ticket information associated with the compared first biometric information is appropriate, and if it is determined to be appropriate, sets the usage status of the ticket information to either started or ended.(Supplementary Note 10) The ticket processing method of Supplementary Note 9, wherein the affiliate company device receives payment information indicating that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliate company, and after receiving the payment information, the affiliate company device associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the associated information to the railway company device. (Supplementary Note 11) The ticket processing method of Supplementary Note 10, wherein the payment information indicates that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliate company in cash. (Supplementary Note 12) The ticket processing method of Supplementary Note 9, wherein the affiliate company device stores the first biometric information and the ticket information in association with each other, and after the first biometric information and the ticket information have been transmitted to the railway company device in association with each other, erases the first biometric information stored in association with the ticket information. (Supplementary Note 13) The ticket processing method of Supplementary Note 9, wherein the railway company device stores the first biometric information received from the affiliated company device in association with the ticket information, and when the usage state of the ticket information is terminated, erases the first biometric information stored in association with the ticket information. (Supplementary Note 14) The ticket processing method of Supplementary Note 12, wherein, when erasing the first biometric information, the affiliated company device stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information in association with a number that does not identify an individual. (Supplementary Note 15) The ticket processing method of Supplementary Note 13, wherein, when erasing the first biometric information, the railway company device stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information in association with a number that does not identify an individual. (Appendix 16) The ticket processing method described in Appendix 10, wherein the affiliate company device calculates sales results for the ticket information over a predetermined period, calculates compensation from the affiliate company to the railway company based on the calculated sales results, and transmits information about the calculated compensation to the railway company device, and the railway company device receives information about the compensation from the affiliate company device.

[0096] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-071278, filed April 25, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0097] 1, 2 Ticket processing system 10 Operation device 11 Receiving unit 12 Transmitting unit 13 Ticket request information input unit 14 First biometric information input unit 15 Settlement unit 16 Purchase certificate output unit 20, 20A Partner company device 21 Memory unit 22, 22A Receiving unit 23, 23A Transmitting unit 24, 24A Ticket generation unit 25 Purchase certificate generation unit 26 Memory management unit 27 Consideration calculation unit 30, 30A Railway company device 31 Memory unit 32, 32A Receiving unit 33 Transmitting unit 34, 34A Verification unit 35, 35A Ticket judgment unit 36 ​​Memory management unit 40 Entrance ticket gate 41 Receiving unit 42 Transmitting unit 43 Second biometric information input unit 50 Exit ticket gate 51 Receiving unit 52 Transmitting unit 53 Second biometric information input unit 1000: Computer 1001: Processor 1002: Memory 1003: Network interface

Claims

1. A ticket processing system comprising: a railway company device managed by a railway company; and an affiliate company device that communicates with said railway company device and is managed by an affiliate company that is affiliated with said railway company, wherein said affiliate company device comprises: a receiving unit that receives ticket request information required to purchase a ticket for a user and first biometric information of the user; a ticket generation unit that generates ticket information based on the ticket request information; and a transmitting unit that associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the associated information to said railway company device, wherein said railway company device comprises: a receiving unit that receives the associated first biometric information with the ticket information from said affiliate company device, and receives second biometric information of the user when the user passes through a ticket gate at a station of said railway company; a matching unit that matches the first biometric information with the second biometric information; and a ticket determination unit that determines whether the ticket information associated with the matched first biometric information is appropriate, and if it is determined to be appropriate, sets the usage status of the ticket information to either start or end.

2. The ticket processing system of claim 1, wherein the receiving unit of the affiliated company device receives payment information indicating that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliated company, and the transmitting unit of the affiliated company device, after receiving the payment information, associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits it to the railway company device.

3. The ticket processing system according to claim 2, wherein the payment information indicates that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliated company in cash.

4. The ticket processing system of claim 1, wherein the affiliated company device further comprises: a memory unit that stores the first biometric information and the ticket information in association with each other; and a memory management unit that erases the first biometric information stored in association with the ticket information after the first biometric information and the ticket information have been sent in association with each other to the railway company device.

5. The ticket processing system of claim 1, wherein the railway company device further comprises: a memory unit that stores the first biometric information received from the affiliated company device in association with the ticket information; and a memory management unit that erases the first biometric information stored in association with the ticket information when the use of the ticket information is terminated.

6. A ticket processing system as described in claim 4, wherein the memory management unit of the affiliated company device, when erasing the first biometric information, stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information in association with a number that does not identify an individual.

7. A ticket processing system as described in claim 5, wherein the memory management unit of the railway company device, when erasing the first biometric information, stores the ticket information associated with the first biometric information in association with a number that does not identify an individual.

8. The ticket processing system described in claim 2, wherein the affiliate company device further comprises a compensation calculation unit that calculates sales results of the ticket information for a specified period and calculates compensation from the affiliate company to the railway company based on the calculated sales results, a transmitting unit of the affiliate company device transmits information on the calculated compensation to the railway company device, and a receiving unit of the railway company device receives information on the compensation from the affiliate company device.

9. A ticket processing method executed by a railway company device managed by a railway company and an affiliate company device that communicates with the railway company device and is managed by an affiliate company that is affiliated with the railway company, wherein the affiliate company device receives ticket request information required to purchase a ticket for a user and first biometric information of the user, generates ticket information based on the ticket request information, associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the associated information to the railway company device, and the railway company device receives the associated first biometric information with the ticket information from the affiliate company device, receives second biometric information of the user when the user passes through a ticket gate at a station of the railway company, compares the first biometric information with the second biometric information, determines whether the ticket information associated with the compared first biometric information is appropriate, and if it is determined to be appropriate, sets the usage status of the ticket information to either started or ended.

10. The ticket processing method described in claim 9, wherein the affiliated company device receives payment information indicating that the user has paid the fare for the ticket information to the affiliated company, and after receiving the payment information, the affiliated company device associates the first biometric information with the ticket information and transmits the same to the railway company device.

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