Beverage provision system, custom beverage creation method, and program

Abstract

A beverage provision system 1 comprises a first terminal 10 and a dispenser 20 that are configured to be capable of communicating with each other. The first terminal 10 includes a beverage information generation unit that generates beverage information relating to a custom beverage on the basis of an operation input from a user, and a first communication unit that transmits information including the beverage information. The dispenser 20 includes: a storage unit for storing a plurality of beverage liquids including a first beverage liquid containing alcohol and a second beverage liquid not containing alcohol; a second communication unit for receiving information including beverage information; and a provision unit for mixing the plurality of beverage liquids stored in the storage unit on the basis of the beverage information received by the second communication unit to create and provide the custom beverage. The first communication unit of the first terminal 10 transmits the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser 20.

Description

Beverage providing system, custom beverage generation method, and program 【0001】 The present disclosure relates to a beverage providing system, a custom beverage generation method, and a program. 【0002】 Dispensers that mix a plurality of beverage liquids based on an instruction from a user to generate a custom beverage desired by the user are known. 【0003】 In relation to the above-described technology, a first application presents a first user interface that enables a user to select foodstuffs and / or non-foodstuffs for purchase at a retail store, and in response to receiving a request from a user using the first user interface, a second application is linked to the first application by the first application, the second application accesses a data repository including selectable beverage options, presents a second user interface for selection of the selectable beverage options, generates a beverage instruction code representing the selected beverage, transmits it to a beverage dispenser at a retail store, and a technology is known in which the beverage dispenser supplies an appropriate amount of the selected beverage (Patent Document 1). 【0004】 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-11595 【0005】 In the technology described in Patent Document 1, although a beverage instruction code for generating a custom beverage desired by a user can be sent to a beverage dispenser and the beverage dispenser can supply the custom beverage, there is no description in Patent Document 1 regarding sharing the generated beverage instruction code with other users. 【0006】 Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a technology capable of sharing beverage information of a custom beverage generated according to a user's instruction with a device other than a dispenser that instructed generation of the custom beverage. 【0007】This is a beverage serving system comprising a first terminal and a dispenser configured to communicate with each other. The first terminal has a beverage information generation unit that generates beverage information about a custom beverage based on user input, and a first communication unit that transmits information including the beverage information generated by the beverage information generation unit. The dispenser has a storage unit that stores a plurality of beverage liquids, including a first beverage liquid containing alcohol and a second beverage liquid that does not contain alcohol, a second communication unit that receives information including beverage information, and a serving unit that mixes the plurality of beverage liquids stored in the storage unit to generate and serve a custom beverage based on the beverage information received by the second communication unit. Furthermore, the first communication unit of the first terminal transmits the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser. 【0008】 According to this disclosure, beverage information of a custom beverage generated at the user's instruction can be shared with devices other than the dispenser that instructed the generation of the custom beverage. 【0009】This is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a dispenser used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a dispenser used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of a liquid level detection unit in a dispenser used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of a dispenser used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of an external server in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a beverage information database according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a user database according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a recipe database according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a pre-configured beverage database according to one embodiment. This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a flowchart showing another example of the processing flow in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a flowchart showing yet This figure shows an example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This figure shows another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This figure shows yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This figure shows yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment.This is a diagram showing yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a diagram showing yet another example of a screen displayed on the display of a first terminal used in a beverage dispensing system according to one embodiment. This is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of computer 90. 【0010】 The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings illustrating the embodiments, common components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations are omitted. The following embodiments are not intended to unduly limit the content of this disclosure as described in the claims. Not all components shown in the embodiments are necessarily essential components of this disclosure. Also, each drawing is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily a strict illustration. 【0011】 Furthermore, in the following description, "processor" refers to one or more processors. At least one processor is typically a microprocessor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but may be another type of processor such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). At least one processor may be single-core or multi-core. 【0012】Furthermore, at least one processor may be a broad-sense processor, such as a hardware circuit that performs some or all of the processing (e.g., an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit)). 【0013】 Furthermore, in the following explanation, we may use expressions such as "xxx table" to describe information from which an output is obtained for a given input. This information can be data of any structure, or it can be a learning model such as a neural network that generates an output for a given input. Therefore, "xxx table" can be referred to as "xxx information." 【0014】 Furthermore, in the following explanation, the configuration of each table is just an example; one table may be divided into two or more tables, or all or part of two or more tables may constitute a single table. 【0015】 Furthermore, in the following explanation, the subject of the process may sometimes be "program," but since a program is executed by a processor and performs defined processes using the memory and / or interface as appropriate, the subject of the process may also be the processor (or a device such as a controller that has that processor). 【0016】 The program may be installed on a device such as a computer, or it may reside on a program distribution server or a computer-readable (e.g., non-temporary) recording medium. Furthermore, in the following description, two or more programs may be implemented as a single program, or one program may be implemented as two or more programs. 【0017】The functions realized by the components described herein may be implemented in circuitry or processing circuitry, including general-purpose processors, application-specific processors, integrated circuits, ASICs, CPUs, conventional circuits, and / or combinations thereof, programmed to realize the functions described herein. A processor is considered to be circuitry or processing circuitry, including transistors and other circuits. A processor may be a programmed processor that executes a program stored in memory. 【0018】 In this specification, circuitry, unit, and means are hardware programmed to perform or execute the functions described herein. Such hardware may be any hardware disclosed herein, or any hardware known to be programmed to perform or execute the functions described herein. 【0019】 If the hardware is a processor that is considered to be a type of circuitry, then the circuitry, means, or unit is a combination of hardware and software used to constitute the hardware and / or processor. 【0020】 Furthermore, in the following explanation, identification numbers are used as identification information for various objects, but other types of identification information (for example, identifiers including letters or symbols) may also be used. 【0021】 Furthermore, in the following explanations, when describing similar elements without distinction, a reference code (or a common code among reference codes) may be used, and when describing similar elements with distinction, the element's identification number (or reference code) may be used. 【0022】 Furthermore, in the following explanation, only control lines and information lines deemed necessary for the explanation are shown, and not all control lines and information lines in the product are necessarily shown. All components may be interconnected. 【0023】 <0. Overview of the Beverage Supply System> 【0024】 The following outlines the basic structure of the beverage supply system related to this disclosure (hereinafter simply referred to as the "System"). However, the System related to this disclosure should not be interpreted restrictively based on the following explanation, and the contents of this disclosure should be understood based on the disclosures herein and the ordinary technical knowledge and common sense possessed by those skilled in the art. 【0025】 The system described herein uses a communication-enabled information processing device such as a smartphone owned by the user (hereinafter referred to as the "first terminal") to instruct a dispenser via communication means to create a beverage that the user wishes to drink (hereinafter referred to as the "custom beverage"). Upon receiving the instruction, the dispenser generates and provides the custom beverage based on the instruction to create the custom beverage. 【0026】 A feature of the system described herein is that the user generates beverage information for custom beverage production using a first terminal. The custom beverage is produced in a dispenser by mixing not only a single beverage but also multiple beverages. Preferably, the custom beverage is produced by mixing multiple beverages, including a first beverage containing alcohol and a second beverage that does not contain alcohol. The beverage information generated in the first terminal includes the mixing ratio of these multiple beverages, the specified mixing volume, and preferably the total amount of the custom beverage. Alternatively, the custom beverage may be produced by mixing multiple second beverages that do not contain alcohol, in which case the beverage information includes the mixing ratio of the multiple second beverages as the mixing ratio of the beverages. The total amount of the custom beverage may also be specified by the container of the custom beverage. 【0027】 The first beverage is, for example, a beer-flavored concentrate, with an alcohol concentration of 15% or more. The beer-flavored concentrate is intended to be diluted with carbonated water or the like to create a custom beer-flavored beverage. As an example, the first beverage contains concentrated beer extract and alcohol. The beer-flavored concentrate has higher extract and alcohol content than regular beer. According to the system disclosed herein, it becomes possible for users to create custom beer-flavored beverages with their preferred alcohol content and taste. 【0028】 Furthermore, a key feature of the system described herein is that it transmits beverage information generated at the first terminal to a terminal different from the dispenser that instructs the creation of the custom beverage (hereinafter referred to as the second terminal). In other words, the beverage information generated by the user can be shared with others other than the user. Here, the second terminal may be a communication-enabled information processing device such as a smartphone owned by a user other than the user, or it may be a different dispenser from the one the user instructed to create the custom beverage (in this case, the beverage information can be said to be shared by providing the custom beverage generated by the other dispenser to other users), or it may be a public or private cloud server (in this case, the beverage information can be said to be shared by other users accessing this cloud server and obtaining the beverage information). Preferably, other users post evaluations (reviews) of the beverage information uploaded by the user to the cloud server. 【0029】 Therefore, according to the system described in this disclosure, users can share beverage information they generate with other users. 【0030】 <One Embodiment> <1. Overall System Configuration Diagram> Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of System 1 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, System 1 includes a first terminal 10, a dispenser 20, and an external server 40. The first terminal 10, the dispenser 20, and the external server 40 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate via a network (not shown). The network is configured as a wired or wireless network. The first terminal 10 has a web page browser installed for viewing web pages, but a dedicated application for providing custom beverages by the dispenser 20 may also be installed and configured to be viewable by the dedicated application. 【0031】The first terminal 10 is a device operated by a user who generates beverage information for custom beverage production using the system 1 according to this disclosure. The first terminal 10 is an example of an information processing device, such as a tablet compatible with a mobile communication system or a mobile terminal such as a smartphone. In addition, the first terminal 10 may be implemented by a stationary PC (Personal Computer), a laptop PC, or the like, which are also examples of information processing devices. 【0032】 The first terminal 10 is connected to the dispenser 20 and the external server 40 via the network, enabling communication. The first terminal 10 is connected to the network by communicating with communication devices such as wireless base stations compatible with communication standards such as 4G, 5G, and LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless LAN routers compatible with wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standards such as IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11. 【0033】 The user generates beverage information for a custom beverage using a web browser or dedicated application provided on the first terminal 10. When generating beverage information for a custom beverage using a web browser, the user accesses the web application on the external server 40 via the web browser on the first terminal 10 and generates the beverage information for the custom beverage through this web application. 【0034】 The user may use the first terminal 10 to generate entirely new beverage information, or they may search the external server 40 and obtain beverage information stored on this external server 40. In Figure 1 and the following description, beverage information and recipe will be used synonymously. The user may also obtain a recipe stored on the external server 40 and then modify this recipe on the first terminal 10 to suit the user's preferences. Once the user has determined the beverage information for the custom beverage to be created by the dispenser 20, they send this beverage information to the dispenser 20, thereby instructing the dispenser 20 to create the custom beverage. 【0035】Furthermore, the user may send the recipe generated using the first terminal 10 to an external server 40 and register the recipe with this external server 40. In addition, the user may post an evaluation (review) of the recipe related to the custom beverage generated by the dispenser 20 and register this review with the external server 40. 【0036】 Dispenser 20 generates and provides a custom beverage based on beverage information transmitted from the first terminal 10. As will be described in detail later, dispenser 20 stores multiple beverages, including a first beverage containing alcohol and a second beverage that does not contain alcohol, and mixes these multiple beverages, including the first and second beverages, based on the beverage information to generate and provide a custom beverage. In Figure 1, the first and second beverages are shown as mixing ingredients, and only a single mixing ingredient is shown, but in this embodiment, multiple beverages are provided in the dispenser. 【0037】 The external server 40 is a separate computer (information processing device) from the first terminal 10 and the dispenser 20, and stores a large number of recipes registered by users of the system 1 according to this embodiment, including the user. The external server 40 provides a platform for searching these recipes in response to requests from the first terminal 10, and further provides the first terminal 10 with recipes as search results in response to requests from the first terminal 10. In addition, the external server 40 registers recipe reviews in response to requests from the first terminal 10 and provides a platform for users of the system 1 according to this embodiment, including the user, to view these reviews. 【0038】 <1.1 Schematic Configuration of Dispenser 20> Figure 2 is a schematic external view of the dispenser 20 that constitutes System 1 of this embodiment, and Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of this dispenser 20. 【0039】In these figures, the dispenser 20 of this embodiment is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. In Figure 2, an injection section 21 is provided on the front left side, into which a custom beverage, which is instructed to be produced by the user who owns the first terminal 10, is injected. Drinkers of the custom beverage, including the user, place a mug 50 for the custom beverage in a mug storage section 22 provided below the injection section 21 and wait for the dispenser 20 to inject the custom beverage. 【0040】 In Figure 2, the right side of the dispenser 20 is provided with a beverage storage section (storage section) 23, which preferably stores multiple beverage containers 51 in which beverage liquids are stored. Preferably, the beverage containers 51 in which beverage liquids are stored include a beverage container 51 in which a first beverage liquid containing alcohol is stored, and a beverage container 51 in which a second beverage liquid that does not contain alcohol is stored. It is also possible that a partition is provided inside the beverage container 51, so that the first beverage liquid and the second beverage liquid are stored in separate compartments without mixing. In this case, a single beverage container 51 may be placed in the dispenser 20. Here, the first beverage liquid is, for example, a beer-flavored concentrate, and the alcohol concentration of the beer-flavored concentrate is 10 (v / v)% or more, or 15 (v / v)% or more. 【0041】 Beer-flavored concentrate is an edible aqueous solution used to make beer-flavored beverages. Beer-flavored beverages are made by mixing the beer-flavored concentrate with an edible aqueous solution for dilution. The edible liquid for dilution includes, for example, water or carbonated water. 【0042】 Because beer-flavored concentrate is mixed with an edible aqueous solution for dilution, it has higher concentrations of aroma components (esters, higher alcohols, etc.), ethanol, bitterness, and color compared to typical beer-flavored beverages. 【0043】 Beer-flavored concentrates include not only fermented beer-flavored concentrates obtained by fermentation using yeast, but also non-fermented beer-flavored concentrates that do not undergo a fermentation process and to which beer flavorings containing aroma components such as esters, higher alcohols, and lactones are added. 【0044】As used herein, "fermentation" may refer to alcoholic fermentation or non-alcoholic fermentation that does not produce alcohol. The beer flavor stock solution may be a malt beer flavor stock solution using malt or a malt-free beer flavor stock solution without using malt. 【0045】 In this specification, the alcohol content is indicated as a percentage by volume / volume ((v / v)%). The alcohol content of the beverage can be measured by any known method, for example, it can be measured with a vibrating densitometer. As another aspect, the first beverage liquid includes an alcoholic beverage liquid with an alcohol concentration of 25 (v / v)% or more, or 30 (v / v)% or more, or 35 (v / v)% or more, or 40 (v / v)% or more, or 45 (v / v)% or more. The first beverage liquid is, for example, vodka or other distilled liquors. The second beverage liquid includes at least one or more of carbonated water, water, a beverage liquid containing a flavor, a beverage liquid containing a pigment, a beverage liquid containing a sweetener, a beverage liquid containing an acidity, a beverage liquid containing a non-alcoholic beer flavor, and a beverage liquid containing a low-alcohol beer flavor with an alcohol concentration of 0.5 (v / v)% or less, or 1 (v / v)% or less, or 1 (v / v)% or less. According to this aspect, the system according to the present disclosure creates a custom beverage by mixing the first beverage liquid and at least one type of the second beverage liquid. 【0046】 Furthermore, in FIG. 2, a display 24 is provided in the upper left front of the dispenser 20 to notify the administrator of various states of the dispenser 20, the injection status of the custom beverage, and even when an abnormality occurs in the operation of the dispenser 20. 【0047】In FIG. 3, the dispenser 20 of the present embodiment includes a beverage liquid container 51 (shown as a beer container in FIG. 3) storing a beverage liquid to be mixed into a custom beverage, and a flavor container 52 storing a flavor to be mixed into the custom beverage as well. As shown in FIG. 4, the liquid level detection unit 25 acquires the liquid level position of the beverage liquid container 51 detected by a liquid level sensor 26 (not shown in FIG. 3), digitizes the acquisition result, and sends it to the control unit 28. The air cylinder 53 maintains the internal pressure of the beverage liquid container 51 when the beverage liquid is a foaming beverage such as beer. The preparation unit 27 acquires a predetermined amount of beverage liquid from the beverage liquid container 51 based on an instruction from the control unit 28, and also acquires a predetermined amount of flavor from the flavor container 52 based on an instruction from the control unit 28, and mixes these beverage liquid and flavor to generate a custom beverage. The injection unit 29 injects the custom beverage generated by the preparation unit 27 into the cup 50. The (second) communication unit 30 communicates various information at least with the first terminal 10. The specific operation of the control unit 28 will be described later. Note that the preparation unit 27, the control unit 28, and the injection unit 29 are collectively referred to as a providing unit that generates and provides a custom based on beverage information. 【0048】 <1.2 Functional Configuration of the First Terminal 10> FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the first terminal 10 shown in FIG. 1. The first terminal 10 shown in FIG. 5 is realized by, for example, a PC, a mobile terminal, or a wearable terminal. As shown in FIG. 5, the first terminal 10 includes a first communication unit 120, an input device 13, an output device 14, an audio processing unit 17, a microphone 171, a speaker 172, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. Each block included in the first terminal 1 is electrically connected by, for example, a bus or the like. 【0049】 The first communication unit 120 performs processes such as modulation / demodulation processing for the first terminal 10 to communicate with other devices such as the dispenser 20 and the external server 40. The first communication unit 120 performs transmission processing on the signal generated by the control unit 190 and transmits it to the outside (for example, the dispenser 20). The first communication unit 120 performs reception processing on the signal received from the outside and outputs it to the control unit 190. 【0050】The input device 13 is a device for a user operating the first terminal 10 to input instructions or information. The input device 13 may be implemented as, for example, a keyboard, mouse, reader, etc. If the first terminal 10 is a mobile terminal, it may be implemented as a touch-sensitive device 131, etc., to which instructions are input by touching the operating surface. The input device 13 converts the instructions input by the user into electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals to the control unit 190. The input device 13 may also include, for example, a receiving port that accepts electrical signals input from an external input device. 【0051】 The output device 14 is a device for presenting information to the user operating the first terminal 10. The output device 14 is implemented, for example, by a display 141. The display 141 displays data according to the control of the control unit 190. The display 141 is implemented, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. 【0052】 The audio processing unit 17 performs, for example, digital-to-analog conversion processing of the audio signal. The audio processing unit 17 converts the signal provided from the microphone 171 into a digital signal and provides the converted signal to the control unit 190. The audio processing unit 17 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 172. The audio processing unit 17 is implemented, for example, by an audio processing processor. The microphone 171 receives an audio input and provides the audio signal corresponding to the audio input to the audio processing unit 17. The speaker 172 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 17 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the first terminal 10. 【0053】 The storage unit 180 stores data and programs used by the first terminal 10. For example, the storage unit 180 stores an application program 181, user information 182, beverage information 183, and a beverage information database (Data Base) 184. 【0054】User information 182 is information of a user who uses the first terminal 10 to generate beverage information for a custom beverage, which is a function of system 1. Beverage information 183 and beverage information DB 184 are generated by the beverage information generation unit 195 of the control unit 190. Details of beverage information DB 184 will be described later. 【0055】 The control unit 190 is realized when the processor 19 reads the application program 181 stored in the storage unit 180 and executes the instructions contained in the application program 181. The control unit 190 controls the operation of the first terminal 10. By operating according to the application program 181 stored in the storage unit 180, the control unit 190 performs the functions of an input operation receiving unit 191, a transmitting / receiving unit 192, a data processing unit 193, a presentation control unit 194, and a beverage information generation unit 195. 【0056】 The input operation receiving unit 191 processes instructions or information input from the input device 13. Specifically, for example, the input operation receiving unit 191 receives information based on instructions input from a keyboard, mouse, etc. 【0057】 The transmitting / receiving unit 192 performs processing to enable the first terminal 10 to send and receive data with external devices such as the dispenser 20 and the external server 40 in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 transmits information regarding operation inputs entered by the user to the dispenser 20. The transmitting / receiving unit 192 also receives information provided by the dispenser 20 from the dispenser 20. 【0058】 The data processing unit 193 performs calculations on the data received as input by the first terminal 10 according to the application program 181 and outputs the calculation results to the storage unit 180. 【0059】The presentation control unit 194 controls the output device 14 in order to present information generated by the beverage information generation unit 195, information provided by the dispenser 20, etc., to the user. Specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 194 displays the information generated by the beverage information generation unit 195, etc., on the display 141. The presentation control unit 194 also outputs the information generated by the beverage information generation unit 195, etc., from the speaker 172. 【0060】 The beverage information generation unit 195 generates beverage information for a custom beverage, more specifically, beverage information for dispensing the custom beverage by the dispenser 20, based on information input by the user via the input device 13. As already described, the beverage information generated by the beverage information generation unit 195 includes the mixing ratio of multiple beverage liquids, the specification of the mixing volume, the specification of the flavor, the specification of the mixing volume, the specification of the alcohol percentage or amount of alcohol in the custom beverage, and preferably the total amount of the custom beverage. 【0061】 In the system 1 of this embodiment, the beverage information generation unit 195 generates beverage information in two ways: one pattern in which the original beverage information is generated only at the first terminal 10, and another pattern in which beverage information (recipes) stored in an external server 40 or the like is obtained from the external server 40 or the like and generated. Furthermore, when a recipe is obtained from the external server 40, the beverage information generation unit 195 may customize this recipe based on user input and generate user-specific beverage information. The beverage information generation unit 195 may also display allergy information contained in the recipe or customized custom beverage on the display 141. 【0062】 The beverage information generation unit 195 retrieves beverage information previously created by the user when obtaining recipes from an external server 40 or the like. The beverage information generation unit 195 also searches the external server 40 or the like based on search keys including keywords and recipe creators, and obtains recipes as search results. 【0063】Furthermore, after the user receives the custom beverage generated and provided by the dispenser 20 based on the generated beverage information, the beverage information generation unit 195 uploads an evaluation (review) of this custom beverage to an external server 40 or the like. In addition, the beverage information generation unit 195 uploads the user's customized beverage information (recipe) to the external server 40 or the like. 【0064】 As already explained, the functions of the beverage information generation unit 195 are realized by a web browser or dedicated application installed on the first terminal 10. When using a web browser, it is preferable to operate a web application stored on an external server 40 or the like using the web browser. In this case, it is preferable that the web application or dedicated application displays a tutorial on the display 141 that guides the user through the procedure for generating a custom beverage by the beverage information generation unit 195, prior to the user's initial instruction to generate a custom beverage. 【0065】 As a specification of the dedicated application, when the initial custom beverage generation instruction (beverage information generation instruction) is made through customization, beverage information can be generated without user registration on the external server 40. However, when saving the customized recipe to the external server 40 or posting a review thereafter, downloading the dedicated application and registering an account on the external server 40 may be required. In other words, it may be possible to generate beverage information for a customized custom beverage as a trial and provide a custom beverage based on this beverage information. In the trial state, it may be possible to allow the generation of beverage information for one custom beverage, and after downloading the dedicated application and registering an account, it may be possible to instruct the creation of multiple custom beverages. Of course, it may also be possible to allow the generation of beverage information for multiple custom beverages without downloading the dedicated application or registering an account. Furthermore, when creating beverage information for a customized custom beverage as a trial, recommended custom beverage information may be displayed on the display 141 (for example, as a pop-up display). 【0066】The beverage information generation unit 195 may, after the dispenser 20 has finished generating and providing the custom beverage, and if there is a further instruction from the user to generate a custom beverage based on the user's operational instructions, present the beverage information created immediately beforehand and ask the user whether they would like to request the creation of a custom beverage based on this beverage information (i.e., to confirm whether they would like to place another order). 【0067】 In System 1 of this embodiment, the beverage liquid includes a first beverage liquid containing alcohol. Therefore, if a custom beverage uses the first beverage liquid, the custom beverage is treated as an alcoholic beverage. Consequently, depending on the country where the dispenser 20 is located, there may be age restrictions on the consumption of alcoholic beverages. In a dedicated application, when registering an account, the user is required to enter their date of birth and submit documents to verify their date of birth. If verification is successful, information regarding the user's date of birth is stored in the user information 182 of the storage unit 180, and the beverage information generation unit 195 can restrict the generation of beverage information for a custom beverage if it is an alcoholic beverage. Restriction here also includes allowing the generation of beverage information for a custom beverage using a second beverage liquid that does not contain alcohol. If the generation of beverage information for a custom beverage is restricted as a result of age verification, the beverage information generation unit 195 notifies the user on the display 141 that a custom beverage using the first beverage liquid containing alcohol cannot be provided, and then resumes the beverage information creation operation. Alternatively, a screen for selecting the alcohol content may be displayed to make it easier for the user to modify the beverage information. On the other hand, in the case of a web application, it is possible that an account has not yet been registered. Therefore, when the user instructs the beverage information generation unit 195 to generate beverage information for a custom beverage using the first beverage liquid, the unit may have the user take a photograph of a document proving their age (including an ID card) using the camera (not shown) or the like provided by the first terminal 10, and perform age verification. 【0068】Alternatively, if the ID card is an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag, the first terminal 10 may be equipped with a reader capable of reading the ID stored in the RFID tag using near-field communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication). The beverage information generation unit 195 may instruct the user to read the ID card they possess using the reader, and after confirming that the user has performed an action such as holding the ID card over the reader, it may read the age information contained in the ID via the reader and perform age verification. Alternatively, the beverage information generation unit 195 may display a user age input screen on the display 141, have the user input their age via the input device 13, and perform age verification based on the age information entered by the user. 【0069】 Age verification may also be performed at the dispenser 20. In this case, since an operator, including a store employee, is always present near the dispenser 20, a screen prompting the employee to present age verification documents may be displayed on the dispenser 20's display 24, and once the employee has verified the age, the employee may authorize the provision of the custom beverage. 【0070】Even if a user inputs an instruction to create a custom beverage, there may be insufficient beverage liquid to create the requested custom beverage. As described later, the dispenser 20 detects the remaining amount of beverage liquid using the liquid level detection unit 25. Therefore, when the beverage information generated by the beverage information generation unit 195 is sent to the dispenser 20 by the first communication unit 120, and the dispenser 20 performs the custom beverage creation work based on this beverage information, if the amount (volume) of beverage liquid calculated based on the beverage information is greater than the current remaining amount of beverage liquid (i.e., there is insufficient beverage liquid), the dispenser 20's supply control module 2034 (see Figure 6) sends information to the first terminal 10 via the second communication unit 201 indicating that there is insufficient beverage liquid. Furthermore, if the amount of beverage liquid remaining in the beverage liquid container 31 is below a certain amount (including running out of beverage liquid), the dispenser 20's supply control module 2034 also sends information to the first terminal 10 via the second communication unit 201 indicating that there is insufficient beverage liquid. 【0071】 When the beverage information generation unit 195 receives information from the dispenser 20, it displays the selection item (e.g., icon) for the custom beverage using the missing beverage liquid as unavailable (e.g., hidden), or displays it differently from other available icons. Examples of displaying an unavailable item include using a different color, shape, or text from other available icons. 【0072】 Alternatively, the beverage information generation unit 195 may present the user with a custom beverage using a beverage other than the one with insufficient remaining quantity as an alternative. Furthermore, the beverage information generation unit 195 may present the user with the creation of a custom beverage that can be produced with the remaining quantity (including changing the size of the mug 50). 【0073】In addition to insufficient remaining beverage liquid, there may be other reasons why the dispenser 20 is unable to produce the custom beverage requested by the user. Examples include a malfunction of the dispenser 20 itself or a communication error with the dispenser 20. In this case, the beverage information generation unit 195 can display an error. Similarly, the dispenser 20 may also display an error on its display 24 via the dispensing unit control module 2034. 【0074】 When the beverage information generation unit 195 generates beverage information about a custom beverage and issues a production instruction to the dispenser 20 via the first communication unit 120, there may be multiple dispensers 20 that can communicate with the first communication unit 120. In this case, the beverage information generation unit 195 requests the user to specify which of the communicable dispensers 20 to issue the production instruction for the custom beverage, and based on the user's input, it can issue the production instruction for the custom beverage to the dispenser 20 selected by the user via the first communication unit 120. 【0075】 Alternatively, the beverage information acquisition unit 2033 of the dispenser 20, described later, can be configured to receive and acquire beverage information from the first terminal 10 according to a predetermined priority order at the store or other location where the dispenser 20 is installed, if the first communication unit 120 can communicate with multiple dispensers 20. In this case, the beverage information generation unit 195 can transmit beverage information to the dispensers 20 in order of priority, without the beverage information generation unit 195 having to select the dispenser 20. In this case, the store or other location can be configured using a terminal device (third terminal) not shown, which has the same configuration as the first terminal 10. 【0076】In this way, the user can specify the dispenser 20 that will issue the instruction to create the custom beverage. On the other hand, whether or not the dispenser 20 can be specified, if the beverage information generation unit 195 can issue an instruction to create a custom beverage to a specific dispenser 20, it may receive multiple instructions to create custom beverages from multiple users at almost the same time. Since it takes a certain amount of time to create a custom beverage, when an instruction to create a custom beverage is issued based on the user's input, the specified dispenser 20 may be working on creating custom beverages based on instructions from other users at that time, and may not be able to immediately respond to the user's instruction to create a custom beverage (i.e., the waiting time until the custom beverage is completed will be longer compared to when it can be responded to immediately). 【0077】 Therefore, when the dispenser 20's supply control module 2034 receives an instruction to create another custom beverage while it is creating a custom beverage, it calculates the time remaining until the current custom beverage is finished being dispensed (i.e., the waiting time) and sends this information to the first terminal 10 that sent the instruction to create the other custom beverage. The beverage information generation unit 195, upon receiving the information regarding the waiting time, displays this waiting time on the display 141. 【0078】 Upon receiving a notification of waiting time, the beverage information generation unit 195 of the first terminal 10 displays a screen on the display 141 suggesting to the user to instruct a dispenser 20 other than the one that sent the waiting time notification to create a custom beverage (i.e., to change the dispenser 20 that is instructed to create the custom beverage). Based on the user's input, the unit can then send a custom beverage creation instruction to the dispenser 20 selected by the user via the first communication unit 120. Alternatively, the beverage information generation unit 195 may send beverage information to a dispenser 20 other than the one that sent the waiting time notification and instruct it to create a custom beverage without waiting for a selection instruction from the user. This configuration can shorten the user's waiting time. 【0079】The beverage information generation unit 195 stores in the storage unit 180 the beverage information 183 for which there have been instructions to create custom beverages for at least the current day. When the beverage information generation unit 195 receives a new instruction to create a custom beverage from the user (i.e., after sending the most recent beverage information to the dispenser 20), it refers to the beverage information stored in the storage unit 180 and calculates the total amount of alcohol (e.g., in grams) that the user is presumed to have consumed that day. If this total amount of alcohol exceeds the recommended limit for appropriate drinking in the country where the dispenser 20 is located, the beverage information generation unit 195 displays a message to the user via the display 141 indicating that consuming the custom beverage based on the currently generated beverage information will exceed the limit for appropriate drinking. Furthermore, the beverage information generation unit 195 may display a screen on the display 141 allowing the user to choose whether or not to continue with the custom beverage creation instructions. 【0080】 For reference, in Japan, the recommended daily limit for alcohol consumption is, for example, 40g for men and 20g for women. In the United States, assuming 14g of pure alcohol per drink, the limit is two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. In Australia, assuming 10g of pure alcohol per drink, the limit is less than 10 drinks per week for both men and women. 【0081】 When the dispensing of the custom beverage by the dispenser 20 is complete, the dispensing control module 2034 of the dispenser 20 sends information to the first terminal 10 that sent the instruction to create the custom beverage, indicating that the dispensing has been completed. 【0082】Upon receiving information that the extraction of a custom beverage has finished, the beverage information generation unit 195 notifies the user via the display 141 that the extraction has finished. Subsequently, after a predetermined time has elapsed since receiving the information, the beverage information generation unit 195 may display a screen via the display 141 recommending that the user place another order for the custom beverage whose extraction has finished (i.e., place another order). Alternatively, when the user next launches the web application or dedicated application, the beverage information generation unit 195 may refer to the most recent beverage information 183 stored in the storage unit 180 and display a screen via the display 141 recommending that the user place another order for the custom beverage that was previously generated. 【0083】 The first communication unit 120 of the first terminal 10 and the second second communication unit 201 of the dispenser 20 are connected via a network. Here, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 or the beverage information generation unit 195 of the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 may disconnect communication between the first terminal 10 and the dispenser 20 if there is no instruction from the user to create a custom beverage for a certain period of time. Alternatively, prior to disconnecting communication, a screen may be displayed on the display 141 allowing the user to choose whether or not to disconnect communication. By disconnecting the connection between the first terminal 10 and the dispenser 20 after a certain period of time in this way, the number of first terminals 10 connected to the dispenser 20 at the same time can be limited, thereby ensuring that it is easier for new first terminals 10 to connect to the dispenser 20 when they wish to do so. This is because there may be a certain limit on the number of simultaneous connections in the second second communication unit 201 of the dispenser 20, so the number of connections with the first terminal 10 can be kept within the number of simultaneous connections. Thus, when the connection between the first terminal 10 and the dispenser 20 is established after a certain period of time, it is preferable that the beverage information generation unit 195 displays a screen for selecting the dispenser 20 to which the user wishes to connect, as described above, when reconnecting to the dispenser 20. 【0084】Furthermore, when the beverage information generation unit 195 receives information that the extraction of a custom beverage has finished, if the custom beverage is a customized version of a recipe stored in an external server 40 or the like, it displays a selection screen on the display 141 asking whether or not to share the customized recipe (beverage information). The timing of the display of the selection screen is either a predetermined time after receiving information that the extraction has finished, or when the user next launches the web application or dedicated application. In particular, if a custom beverage is reordered, there is a very high probability that the user likes the customized custom beverage, so it is preferable to display the selection screen when a reorder is made. 【0085】 Prior to displaying the selection screen, the beverage information generation unit 195 may display a screen encouraging the user to take a photo of the custom beverage that is a candidate for sharing. Alternatively, it may display a screen encouraging the user to record their impressions of the custom beverage. 【0086】 When displaying a screen prompting the user to share recipes, the beverage information generation unit 195 may display a list of custom beverages that the user has instructed to be created at that time. In particular, if the user has instructed the creation of custom beverages at multiple stores, the beverage information generation unit 195 may display in the list the timestamp of the custom beverage creation instruction and the location information of the store (which can be obtained using the GPS function provided in the first terminal 10). 【0087】 Furthermore, after the beverage information generation unit 195 displays a screen allowing the user to choose whether or not to share the recipe, it may also remind the user whether or not to share it after a predetermined time or after detecting that the user has returned home based on GPS information. 【0088】 <1.3 Functional Configuration of Dispenser 20> Figure 6 shows an example of the functional configuration of dispenser 20. As shown in Figure 6, dispenser 20 performs the functions of a second communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a control unit 203. 【0089】The second communication unit 201 performs processing to enable the dispenser 20 to communicate with external devices, including the first terminal 10 and the external server 40. 【0090】 The storage unit 202 stores data and programs used by the dispenser 20. The storage unit 202 stores application programs 2021 and beverage information databases (DB: Database) 2022, etc. 【0091】 The beverage information DB 2022 is a database that stores beverage information received from the first terminal 10, which issued a custom beverage creation instruction to the dispenser 20, as well as information related to this beverage information. Details of the beverage information DB 2022 will be described later. 【0092】 The control unit 203 performs the functions shown in the receiving control module 2031, transmitting control module 2032, beverage information acquisition module 2033, dispensing unit control module 2034, liquid level detection module 2035, and presentation control module 2036, as various modules, by having the processor of the dispenser 20 process according to the application program 2021 stored in the storage unit 202. 【0093】 The receiving control module 2031 controls the process by which the dispenser 20 receives signals from an external device according to a communication protocol. 【0094】 The transmission control module 2032 controls the process by which the dispenser 20 transmits signals to an external device according to a communication protocol. 【0095】 The beverage information acquisition module 2033 receives and acquires the beverage information transmitted by the first terminal 10 via the second communication unit 201, either when the first terminal 10 designates this dispenser 20, or unconditionally if no other dispensers 20 are nearby, and stores the acquired beverage information in the beverage information DB 2022. At this time, the beverage information acquisition module 2033 also stores the date and time of receipt, etc., in the beverage information DB 2022. Then, the beverage information acquisition module 2033 sends the acquired beverage information to the supply unit control module 2034. 【0096】The dispensing control module 2034 controls the mixing unit 27 and the injection unit 29 based on the beverage information sent from the beverage information acquisition module 2033 to produce a custom beverage and provide it to the user. In this case, since the user who sent the beverage information may not be near the dispenser 20 when the production of the custom beverage is finished, the dispensing control module 2034 may display on the dispenser 20's display 24 that the production of the custom beverage is finished and a dispensing start button, and then wait for the user to press the button to control the injection unit 29 and inject the custom beverage into the mug 50. 【0097】 Furthermore, the dispensing control module 2034 may display a screen on the display 24 to verify the user's age after receiving beverage information. In this case, the user may present age verification documents to a store employee near the dispenser 20, and the employee may perform an operation to dismiss the screen display. Once this operation is performed, the dispensing control module 2034 may proceed to the custom beverage production process. 【0098】 The liquid level detection module 2035 detects the remaining amount of beverage liquid in the beverage liquid container 51 based on the liquid level position of the beverage liquid detected by the liquid level detection unit 25 and the liquid level sensor 26. The dispensing unit control module 2034 then determines whether there is insufficient beverage liquid when creating a custom beverage based on the received beverage information. If it determines that there is insufficient liquid, it notifies the first terminal 10 that sent the beverage information via the second communication unit 201 that there is insufficient beverage liquid. Alternatively, the dispensing unit control module 2034 displays on the display 24 that there is insufficient beverage liquid when creating a custom beverage, prompting the store staff to replace the beverage liquid container 51. 【0099】Furthermore, if the dispensing control module 2034 determines that the remaining amount of beverage in a specific beverage container 51 is below a predetermined value (including zero), it displays on the display 24 that there is a shortage of beverage and prompts the store staff to replace the beverage container 51. In addition, if the dispensing control module 2034 can access the core system of the store where the dispenser 20 is located, it may display on the display 24 a screen that notifies the customer whether or not to order a beverage container 51 through this core system, thereby prompting the customer to order a beverage container 51. 【0100】 The serving control module 2034 refers to the beverage information DB 2022 and generates custom beverages in the order of the date and time the beverage information arrived. Alternatively, the serving control module 2034 creates and serves custom beverages in the order in which the start dispensing button is operated. In this case, if the user who owns the first terminal 10 is in the store, the serving control module 2034 may display on the display 24 which table and furthermore, whose order the currently being generated custom beverage order (beverage information generation instruction) came from. 【0101】 The display control module 2036 generates a display control signal to display the screen that has been output instructed on the display 24 based on an output instruction from the supply control module 2034, etc., and sends it to the display 24, causing the screen to be displayed on the display 24. 【0102】 <1.4 Functional Configuration of External Server 40> Figure 7 shows an example of the functional configuration of the external server 40. As shown in Figure 7, the external server 40 performs the functions of a communication unit 401, a storage unit 402, and a control unit 403. 【0103】 The communication unit 401 performs processing to enable the external server 40 to communicate with external devices, including the first terminal 10 and the dispenser 20. 【0104】The storage unit 402 stores data and programs used by the external server 40. The storage unit 402 stores application programs 4021, user database 4022, recipe database 4023, recipe data 4024, pre-configured beverage database 4025, pre-configured beverage information 40226, etc. 【0105】 User DB 4022 is a database that stores information about users who have registered an account with System 1 of this embodiment. Recipe DB 4023 is a database that stores information about recipes (beverage information) uploaded to the external server 40 by users of the first terminal 10. Recipe data 4024 is a recipe uploaded to the external server 40 by users of the first terminal 10. Pre-configured beverage DB 4025 is a database that stores information about beverage information (hereinafter referred to as pre-configured beverage information) created in advance by the operator of System 1 of this embodiment. Pre-configured beverage information 4026 is, as described above, pre-configured beverage information created in advance by the operator of System 1 of this embodiment. Details of User DB 4022 and Recipe DB 4023 will be described later. 【0106】 The control unit 403 performs the functions shown in the receiving control module 4031, transmitting control module 4032, recipe acquisition module 4033, and review control module 4034 as various modules, by having the processor of the external server 40 process according to the application program 4021 stored in the storage unit 402. 【0107】 The reception control module 4031 controls the process by which the external server 40 receives signals from an external device according to a communication protocol. 【0108】 The transmission control module 4032 controls the process by which the external server 40 transmits signals to an external device according to a communication protocol. 【0109】The recipe acquisition module 4033 acquires recipes uploaded from the first terminal 10 to the external server 40, stores the acquired recipes as recipe data 4024 in the storage 402, and stores information about the uploaded recipes as the recipe DB 4023. Furthermore, if a user other than the uploader downloads a recipe and creates a custom beverage based on the downloaded recipe, the recipe acquisition module 4033 notifies the first terminal 10 owned by the uploader that the recipe has been used. 【0110】 The review control module 4034 acquires reviews of recipes uploaded from the first terminal 10 to the external server 40, stores the review data in the storage unit 402, and allows the first terminal 10 to view the reviews based on a review viewing request from the first terminal 10. 【0111】 The review control module 4034 provides a general SNS to the users of the first terminal 10. Users of the first terminal 10 can give feedback such as "likes" to specific recipes. The review control module 4034 also provides a platform for communication among users of the first terminal 10. In this case, communication among users of the first terminal 10 can take place one-on-one, or within a group of users with common preferences. Whether users have common preferences can be determined based on the tags that the user has assigned to the recipe, which recipes they have "liked", and the similarity of the beverage liquids and flavors included in the recipe. Once users with common preferences have been selected and a group has been formed, the review control module 4034 allows users in this group to introduce recipes they have created to each other, and also introduces recipes created by group members that the user has not yet instructed to create a custom beverage for. 【0112】 The review control module 4034, upon receiving a review for a recipe, can determine from its text whether the review is positive or negative, and can hide any negative reviews. 【0113】 Furthermore, when the review control module 4034 accepts review uploads from users, it may pre-prepare several tags related to the custom beverage, allowing users to upload reviews by selecting one of these tags. In addition, the review control module 4034 may input these tags, or short sentences entered by the user, into a generation AI module (which may be located on the external server 40 or an existing module may be used) to generate a review in written form, and then register the generated review. 【0114】 <2. Data Structure> Figures 8 to 11 show the data structure of the databases stored by the first terminal 10, the dispenser 20, and the external server 40. Figures 8 to 11 are examples and do not exclude data that is not shown. Also, even if data is listed in the same table, it may be stored in separate memory areas in the storage unit 202. 【0115】 The databases shown in Figures 8 to 11 refer to relational databases, which are data sets called tables, structurally defined by rows and columns, and are used to manage and relate these tables to each other. In a database, tables are called tables, the columns of a table are called columns, and the rows of a table are called records. In a relational database, relationships between tables can be established and linked. 【0116】 Typically, each table has a primary key column to uniquely identify records, but setting a primary key for a column is not mandatory. The control units 190, 203, and 403 of the first terminal 10, dispenser 20, and external server 40 can cause the processor to add, delete, and update records in specific tables stored in the storage units 180, 202, and 402 according to various programs. 【0117】Figure 8 shows an example of the data structure of the beverage information DB 184 stored in the storage unit 180 of the first terminal 10. As shown in Figure 8, each record in the beverage information DB 184 includes, for example, the items "User ID", "Sending Date and Time", "Designated Dispenser", and "Beverage Information". Each item in the beverage information DB 184 is generated and stored by the beverage information generation unit 195. The information stored in the beverage information DB 184 can be changed and updated as needed. 【0118】 The item "User ID" is identification information (ID) used to identify the user who instructed the generation of beverage information. As will be described later, Figure 8 is common to the beverage information DB 2022 stored in the storage unit 202 of the dispenser 20, and the item "User ID" is required in the beverage information DB 2022 but not in the beverage information DB 184. The item "Transmission Date and Time" is information about the date and time when the first terminal 10 transmitted beverage information to the dispenser 20. In the case of the beverage information DB 2022, this item becomes the item "Reception Date and Time," which stores information about the date and time when the dispenser 20 received the beverage information. The item "Designated Dispenser" is information to identify the dispenser 20, such as the name of the dispenser 20 that the user designated to transmit beverage information. The item "Beverage Information" is the beverage information transmitted by the first terminal 10. 【0119】 Figure 9 shows an example of the data structure of the user DB 4022 stored in the storage unit 402 of the external server 40. As shown in Figure 9, each record in the user DB 4022 includes, for example, the fields "User ID", "User Name", "User Password", "User Password", "Date of Birth", and "User Address". Each field in the user DB 4022 is generated and stored by a user registration module (not shown) configured in the control unit 403 of the external server 40, based on the information entered by the user when they registered an account. The information stored in the user DB 4022 can be changed and updated as needed. The user information 182 stored in the storage unit 180 of the first terminal 10 is the content of the records in this user DB 4022 relating to the user of the first terminal 10. 【0120】The "User ID" field is an identifier (ID) used to identify the user who instructed the generation of beverage information. The "User Name" field is the name of the user identified by the "User ID" field, and is the name entered by the user when registering an account. The "User Password" field is the password of the user identified by the "User ID" field, and is the password entered by the user when registering an account. The "Date of Birth" field is information regarding the date of birth of the user identified by the "User ID" field, and is the date of birth information entered by the user when registering an account and authenticated by supporting documents, etc. The "User Address" field is the email address of the user identified by the "User ID" field, and is the email address entered by the user when registering an account. Preferably, the "User Address" field is information authenticated by a procedure such as two-factor authentication for the email address entered by the user. 【0121】 Figure 10 shows an example of the data structure of the recipe DB 4023 stored in the storage unit 402 of the external server 40. As shown in Figure 10, each record in the recipe DB 4023 includes, for example, the fields "Recipe ID", "Recipe Name", "Hashtag", "User ID", and "Registration Date and Time". Each field in the recipe DB 4023 is generated and stored by the recipe acquisition module 4033 of the control unit 403 of the external server 40 based on the information entered by the user when they upload a recipe to the external server 40. The information stored in the recipe DB 4023 can be changed and updated as needed. 【0122】The item "Recipe ID" is identification information (ID) used to identify a recipe uploaded to the external server 40. The item "Recipe Name" is the name of the recipe identified by the item "Recipe ID," and is the name entered by the user when they uploaded the recipe to the external server 40. The item "Hashtag" is the hashtag attached to the recipe identified by the item "Recipe ID," and is the hashtag entered by the user when they uploaded the recipe to the external server 40. The item "User ID" is identification information used to identify the user who uploaded the recipe identified by the item "Recipe ID" to the external server 40, and is the identification information identified when the user logs into system 1 of this embodiment. The item "Registration Date and Time" is the date and time when the recipe identified by the item "Recipe ID" was uploaded to the external server 40. 【0123】 Figure 11 shows an example of the data structure of the pre-configured beverage DB 4025 stored in the storage unit 402 of the external server 40. As shown in Figure 11, each record in the pre-configured beverage DB 4025 includes, for example, the items "Beverage ID", "Beverage Name", "Hashtag", "User ID", and "Pre-configured Beverage Information". Each item in the pre-configured beverage DB 4025 is created in advance by the operator of system 1 in this embodiment and stored in the storage unit 402. The information stored in the pre-configured beverage DB 4025 can be changed and updated as needed. 【0124】 The item "Beverage ID" is identification information (ID) used to identify a pre-configured beverage stored on the external server 40. The item "Beverage Name" is the name of the pre-configured beverage identified by the item "Beverage ID". The item "Hashtag" is the hashtag attached to the pre-configured beverage identified by the item "Beverage ID". The item "Pre-configured Beverage Information" is pre-configured beverage information about the pre-configured beverage identified by the item "Beverage ID". 【0125】<3. Example of Operation> Below, an example of the operation of the first terminal 10 will be described. Note that the order of operation of each step shown in the flowchart illustrating the example of operation of the first terminal 10 shown below is not limited to that shown, and the order of operation can be changed as appropriate. Also, it should be noted that not all steps are necessarily required in the system 1 related to this disclosure. 【0126】 Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the first terminal 10 in this embodiment. 【0127】 First, in step S1200, the login process takes place. As a prerequisite, it is assumed that the user of the first terminal 10 has already registered an account, and that information about this user is registered in the user database 4022 of the external server 40. The login process is a well-known operation, so a detailed explanation will be omitted here, but the user of the first terminal 10 inputs their account information (ID, address, password) via the input device 13, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 sends the input from the user to the external server 40, and the control unit 403 of the external server 40 authenticates the user by referring to the user database 4022. Once authentication is complete, the user logs into system 1 and becomes able to use the services that system 1 provides to the user. 【0128】 Next, in step S1201, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 waits for an operation input made by the user via the input device 13, and proceeds to the respective subroutines of steps S1202 to S1206 based on the content of that operation input. For example, as shown in the screen example in Figure 21, which will be described in detail later, the "Read," "Search," "Create," "Customize," and "Review" buttons are displayed at the bottom of the display 141 of the first terminal 10, and when the user of the first terminal 10 inputs an operation input by pressing any of these buttons, the program proceeds to the subroutine corresponding to the respective button. 【0129】 Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the "read" operation of the first terminal 10 in this embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 13 is intended to explain the specific operation details of step S1202 in Figure 12. 【0130】 First, in step S1300, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 accesses the external server 40 via the first communication unit 120 and searches the recipe DB 4023 of the external server 40 using keywords, hashtags, etc. The search results are displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. Note that the "Read" subroutine in Figure 13 mainly considers reading recipes that the user of the first terminal 10 has previously created and uploaded to the external server 40, so it is preferable that the external server 40 prioritizes displaying recipes uploaded by the user of the first terminal 10. 【0131】 Next, in step S1301, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 determines whether or not the user has made a selection input for any recipe. If it determines that there has been a selection input (YES in step S1301), the program proceeds to step S1302. If it determines that there has been no selection input (NO in step S1301), the program returns to step S1300 and continues to search the recipe DB 4023. 【0132】 In step S1302, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 downloads the beverage information of the recipe selected in step S1301 and stores it as beverage information 183 in the storage unit 180 of the first terminal 10. 【0133】 Next, in step S1303, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 determines whether "customize" has been selected based on the user's input. If it determines that "customize" has been selected (YES in step S1303), the program proceeds to the customization subroutine (step S1205). If it determines that "customize" has not been selected (NO in step S1303), the program proceeds to step S1304. Details of the customization subroutine (step S1205) will be described later. 【0134】In step S1304, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 displays a screen on the display 141 for determining the volume and number of cups of the custom beverage to be dispensed, and determines the volume and number of cups based on the user's input. 【0135】 In step S1305, the age verification process for the user operating the first terminal 10 is performed. The details of the age verification process have already been explained, so the explanation will be omitted here. 【0136】 In step S1306, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 transmits the beverage information downloaded and appropriately customized by the user to the designated dispenser 20 via the first communication unit 120. Next, in step S1307, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 receives a message from the dispenser 20 that transmitted the beverage information indicating that the dispensing of the custom beverage is complete, and displays the message "Custom beverage dispensing complete" on the display 141. After this, the program moves to the "review" subroutine (step S1206). 【0137】 In this case, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 may, after displaying a message indicating the completion of custom beverage dispensing, display a message indicating that the connection between the first terminal 10 and the dispenser 20 will be disconnected, or it may display a countdown until the disconnection is made. This is because, in environments such as a bar where the dispenser 20 is placed and multiple custom beverage dispensing instructions are made to the same dispenser 20, there is a need to immediately release the connection between the first terminal 10 and the dispenser 20 once the custom beverage dispensing is complete, as other users may instruct the dispenser 20 to dispense a custom beverage. 【0138】 Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the "search" operation of the first terminal 10 in this embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 14 is intended to explain the specific operation of step S1203 in Figure 12. 【0139】The "Search" subroutine in Figure 14 primarily considers the search for recipes created by other users and uploaded to the external server 40 by the user of the first terminal 10. It is assumed that the user of the first terminal 10 will first use other users' recipes as they are to extract a custom beverage. Therefore, the flowchart in Figure 14 is the same as the flowchart in Figure 13 with the "Customize" subroutine (step S1205) omitted. Thus, the operations shown in the flowchart in Figure 14 are substantially the same as those shown in the flowchart in Figure 13, and therefore, an explanation is omitted here. 【0140】 Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the "create" operation of the first terminal 10 in this embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 15 is intended to explain the specific operation of step S1204 in Figure 12. 【0141】 The "Create" subroutine in Figure 15 primarily assumes that the user of the first terminal 10 issues a command to create a custom beverage using pre-configured beverage information pre-registered in the external server 40. Therefore, the flowchart in Figure 15 is the same as the flowchart in Figure 13, but with the user searching the pre-configured beverage DB 4025. Thus, the operations shown in the flowchart in Figure 15 are substantially the same as those shown in the flowchart in Figure 13, and therefore, an explanation is omitted here. 【0142】 Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the "customization" operation of the first terminal 10 in this embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 16 is intended to explain the specific operation of step S1205 in Figure 12. 【0143】 First, in step S1600, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 displays a screen on the display 141 that allows the user to specify, add, specify, add, and specify the amount of alcohol for the custom beverage they wish to create. Next, in step S1601, if there is an operation input from the user (YES in step S1601), in step S1602, the control unit 190 generates beverage information that has been determined based on the operation input from the user. 【0144】Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the "age verification, etc." subroutine in the first terminal 10 of this embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 17 is intended to explain the specific operations of step S1305 in Figure 13, step S1404 in Figure 14, and step S1505 in Figure 15. 【0145】 First, in step S1700, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 displays a screen on the display 141 to confirm the user's age. The age confirmation screen may be a screen in which the user directly inputs their age as a number, or a screen in which the user inputs whether or not they are of legal drinking age. 【0146】 Next, in step S1701, if there is user input (YES in step S1701), in step S1702, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 determines whether the user is of legal drinking age based on the information input by the user. If it is determined that the user is of legal drinking age (YES in step S1702), the program proceeds to step S1703, and if it is determined that the user is not of legal drinking age (NO in step S1702), the routine shown in Figure 17 terminates. 【0147】 In step S1703, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 searches the beverage information DB 184 stored in the storage unit 180 of the first terminal 10, and then, in step S1704, calculates how much alcohol the user of the first terminal 10 will consume on that day, based on the beverage information generated by the user of the first terminal 10 on that day and the beverage information currently being created. 【0148】 Next, in step S1705, it is determined whether the amount of alcohol consumed on the day, calculated in step S1704, exceeds the recommended daily alcohol amount in the country where the dispenser 20 is located. If it is determined that the recommended alcohol amount has been exceeded (YES in step S1705), the program proceeds to step S1706. If it is determined that the recommended alcohol amount has not been exceeded (NO in step S1705), the routine shown in Figure 17 is terminated. 【0149】In step S1706, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 displays a screen on the display 141 indicating that consuming the custom beverage currently being prepared will exceed the recommended alcohol amount. 【0150】 Next, the program moves to step S1800 in Figure 18, and the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 displays a screen on the display 141 asking whether to continue with the instruction to create a custom beverage based on the beverage information currently being created. 【0151】 Then, in step S1801, if the user inputs whether or not to continue the instruction to create a custom beverage, based on this input, if the user inputs to continue creation (YES in step S1801), the routine shown in Figure 18 is exited, and if the user inputs not to continue creation (NO in step S1801), the routine shown in Figure 18 is terminated. 【0152】 Figure 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the "review" operation of the first terminal 10 in this embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 19 is intended to explain the specific operation of step S1206 in Figure 12. 【0153】 First, in step S1900, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 displays a review input screen on the display 141. This review input screen includes an evaluation input for the original recipe if the user has created a custom beverage using another user's recipe, and also includes a comment input for the recipe, whether the recipe was created by the user or another user. 【0154】 Next, if there is user input in step S1901 (YES in step S1901), in step S1902, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 posts the content of the user input in steps S1900 and S1901 to the external server 40. 【0155】 <4. Screen Examples> Below, an example of a screen output to the first terminal 10 will be explained with reference to Figures 20 to 30. 【0156】Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10 in the system 1 of this embodiment. 【0157】 The screen shown in Figure 20 is an input screen used in step S1200 of Figure 12 to allow the user of terminal device 10 to input account registration information. Screen 2000 is provided with input windows 2001 and 2002 for entering the user's email address and password as account registration information. The user of terminal 10 uses the input device 13 to enter the account registration information into these input windows 2001 and 2002 and clicks the login button 2003 to instruct terminal 10 to send the account registration information to the external server 40. 【0158】 Figure 21 shows another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0159】 The screen shown in Figure 21 is the screen displayed when searching for recipes uploaded to the external server 40 in the "Search" subroutine shown in Figure 14 (step S1400). Screen 2100 displays an input window 2101 for entering keywords, hashtags, etc., to search for recipes, an icon 2102 indicating a user called a top creator who has uploaded many recipes and has high user review ratings, an icon 2103 indicating this week's recommended recipes recommended by the external server 40, and an icon 2104 indicating recipes recommended to the user based on the user's search history, etc. 【0160】 The user of the first terminal 10 searches for and obtains beverage information about the custom beverage they wish to create by entering keywords or other information into the input window 2101, or by selecting icons 2102 to 2104. 【0161】 Figure 22 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0162】The screen shown in Figure 22 is the screen displayed when the user of the first terminal 10 is searching the pre-configured beverage DB 4025 stored in the external server 40 in the "Create" subroutine shown in Figure 15 (step S1500). The screen 2200 displays icons 2201 that show the names of pre-configured beverages stored in the pre-configured beverage DB 4025. If the user of the first terminal 10 wants to search for a pre-configured beverage other than the pre-configured beverage shown in the example screen in Figure 22, they operate the scroll icons 2202 displayed on the left and right edges of the screen via the input device 13. In response to the operation of the scroll icons 2202, icons 2201 scroll to the left or right, and icons 2201 that show the names of other pre-configured beverages are displayed. 【0163】 Then, with the icon 2201 of the pre-set beverage that the user of the first terminal 10 wishes to extract displayed, if the user further selects the icon 2201 via the input device 13 and selects the beer extraction button 2203 via the input device 13, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 acquires the beverage information of the selected pre-set beverage from the external server 40 (step S1502). Furthermore, if the user selects the customize button 2204 via the input device 13, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 acquires the beverage information of the pre-set beverage from the external server 40 and then proceeds to the customization routine (step S1205) (steps S1303 to S1304). 【0164】 Figure 23 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0165】 The screen shown in Figure 23 is the screen used in the "Create" subroutine shown in Figure 15 to determine the volume and number of cups of the custom beverage that the user of the first terminal 10 wishes to create (step S1403). Screen 2300 displays several icons 2301 that indicate the size of the mug into which the custom beverage will be dispensed by the dispenser 20, as a basis for determining the volume and number of cups of the custom beverage. 【0166】Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 selects one of the icons 2301 via the input device 13 and selects the beer dispensing button 2302 via the input device 13, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 adds information regarding the volume to the beverage information of the selected pre-set beverage. 【0167】 Figure 24 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0168】 The screen shown in Figure 24 is the screen displayed in the "Create" subroutine shown in Figure 15 when sending beverage information to the dispenser 20, allowing the user to select which dispenser 20 they wish to use to dispense the custom beverage if there are multiple dispensers 20 that can communicate with it (step S1506). The screen 2400 displays icons 2401 indicating the names of the dispensers 20 that can communicate with the first terminal 10 (all dispensers 20 that can communicate if multiple dispensers 20 can communicate with it). 【0169】 Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 selects one of the icons 2401 via the input device 13 and selects the beer dispensing button 2402 via the input device 13, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 transmits beverage information to the selected dispenser 20. 【0170】 Figure 25 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0171】 The screen shown in Figure 25 is the screen used in the "Age Verification, etc." subroutine shown in Figure 17 to verify the user's age (step S1700). Screen 2500 displays buttons 2501 and 2502 that allow the user to select whether or not they are of legal drinking age. 【0172】 Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 selects and inputs either button 2501 or 2502 via the input device 13, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 refers to which button 2501 or 2502 was selected by the user and determines whether or not the user has reached the legal drinking age (step S1702). 【0173】 Figure 26 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0174】 The screen shown in Figure 26 is a screen that, in the "Age Verification, etc." subroutine shown in Figure 17, informs the user that the amount of alcohol in the custom beverage the user has consumed (or plans to consume) exceeds the daily alcohol limit, assuming the user will drink the custom beverage they wish to create (step S1706). Screen 2600 displays an area 2601 that displays text informing the user that the amount of alcohol consumed exceeds the daily alcohol limit, and buttons 2602 and 2603 for the user to input whether or not to continue with the custom beverage creation instructions. 【0175】 Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 selects button 2603 via input device 13 to indicate continuing the custom beverage creation instruction, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 terminates the "age verification, etc." subroutine and proceeds to step S1506 in Figure 15. When the user selects button 2602 via input device 13 to indicate canceling the custom beverage creation instruction, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 terminates the "creation" subroutine itself and returns to step S1201 in Figure 12. In other words, it returns to the initial state. 【0176】 Figure 27 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0177】 The screen shown in Figure 27 is a screen that, after the first terminal 10 receives information that the custom beverage has been dispensed from the dispenser 20 that issued the custom beverage creation instruction in the "Create" subroutine shown in Figure 15 (step S1507), confirms with the user whether or not to reorder the custom beverage that the user instructed to be created. Screen 2700 displays an area 2701 that displays a message informing the user that information that the custom beverage has been dispensed has been received, and buttons 2702 and 2703 for the user to input whether or not to instruct the custom beverage to be re-created. 【0178】Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 selects button 2702 via input device 13 to indicate that they wish to recreate the custom beverage, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 refers to the beverage information DB 184 to search for the most recent beverage information and sends this beverage information to the dispenser 20. On the other hand, if the user selects button 2703 to indicate that they do not wish to recreate the custom beverage, the system proceeds to the "review" subroutine (step S1206). 【0179】 Figure 28 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0180】 The screen shown in Figure 28 is a screen in the "Customize" subroutine shown in Figure 16 that allows the user to specify and input flavors and other details for a custom beverage they wish to create (step S1600). Screen 2800 displays a button 2801 for specifying and inputting flavors to be added to the custom beverage, a button 2802 for specifying and inputting colors to be added to the custom beverage, and a slider bar 2803 for specifying and inputting the alcohol content of the custom beverage. 【0181】 Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 specifies the buttons 2801, 2802 and the slider bar 2803 via the input device 13, and further selects the beer dispensing button 2804 via the input device 13, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 generates beverage information based on the selected input (step S1602). 【0182】 Figure 29 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0183】The screen shown in Figure 29 is a screen that, after the first terminal 10 receives information that the custom beverage has been dispensed from the dispenser 20 that issued the custom beverage creation command in the "Create" subroutine shown in Figure 15 (step S1507), asks the user whether or not to share the beverage information (recipe) for the custom beverage created by the user with other users. Screen 2900 displays an area 2901 that displays text asking the user whether or not to share the recipe, and buttons 2902 and 2903 for the user to input their intention to share the recipe. 【0184】 Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 selects button 2902 via input device 13 to indicate sharing a recipe, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 refers to the beverage information DB 184 to search for the most recent beverage information and uploads this beverage information to the external server 40. On the other hand, if the user selects button 2903 to indicate not to share a recipe, the system proceeds to the "review" subroutine (step S1206). 【0185】 Figure 30 shows yet another example of the screen displayed on the display 141 of the first terminal 10. 【0186】 The screen shown in Figure 30 is the screen in the "Review" subroutine shown in Figure 19 that allows the user of the first terminal 10 to input review content (step S1900). The screen 3000 displays buttons 3001 for inputting a multi-level rating of the recipe (five levels in the illustrated example), an input window 3002 for the user to input comments on the recipe in free text, and a button 3003 for instructing the user to submit the review. 【0187】 Then, when the user of the first terminal 10 operates button 3001 via input device 13 and enters free text into input window 3002, and then operates button 3003 to instruct the user to submit a review, the control unit 190 of the first terminal 10 uploads the review entered by the user to the external server 40 (step S1902). 【0188】<5 Effects of One Embodiment> As described in detail above, according to the system 1 of this embodiment, the beverage information (recipe) created by the user can be transmitted to a terminal other than the dispenser 20 that created the custom beverage (second terminal), so that the beverage information of the custom beverage generated according to the user's instructions can be shared with a device other than the dispenser that instructed the generation of the custom beverage. 【0189】 <6.1 Basic Hardware Configuration of Computer> Figure 31 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of computer 90. Computer 90 includes at least a processor 901, main memory 902, auxiliary storage 903, and a communication IF 991 (interface). These are electrically connected to each other by a communication bus 921. 【0190】 The processor 901 is hardware for executing the instruction set described in a program. The processor 901 consists of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, etc. 【0191】 The main memory 902 is for temporarily storing programs and data processed by programs, etc. For example, it is a volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). 【0192】 The auxiliary storage device 903 is a storage device for storing data and programs. Examples include flash memory, HDD (Hard Disc Drive), magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, semiconductor memory, etc. 【0193】A communication interface (IF991) is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for communication with other computers via a network using wired or wireless communication standards. The network consists of various mobile communication systems, such as the Internet, LANs, and wireless base stations. For example, networks include 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile communication systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless networks (e.g., Wi-Fi®) that can connect to the Internet via designated access points. When connecting wirelessly, communication protocols include, for example, Z-Wave®, ZigBee®, and Bluetooth®. When connecting via wired connections, the network also includes connections made directly via USB (Universal Serial Bus) cables, etc. 【0194】 Furthermore, by distributing all or part of each hardware configuration across multiple computers 90 and connecting them to each other via a network, a computer 90 can be virtually realized. Thus, the concept of computer 90 includes not only a computer 90 housed in a single enclosure or case, but also a virtualized computer system. 【0195】 <6.2 Basic Functional Configuration of Computer 90> The functional configuration of the computer realized by the basic hardware configuration of computer 90 (Figure 31) will be described below. The computer comprises at least one functional unit: a control unit, a memory unit, and a communication unit. 【0196】 Furthermore, the functional units of computer 90 can also be realized by distributing all or part of each functional unit across multiple computers 90 interconnected via a network. The concept of computer 90 includes not only a single computer 90 but also a virtualized computer system. 【0197】The control unit is realized when the processor 901 reads various programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 903, loads them into the main memory device 902, and executes processing according to those programs. The control unit can realize various functional units that perform information processing depending on the type of program. In this way, the computer is realized as an information processing device that performs information processing. 【0198】 The memory unit is implemented by a main memory 902 and an auxiliary memory 903. The memory unit stores data, various programs, and various databases. The processor 901 can also reserve memory areas corresponding to the memory unit in the main memory 902 or the auxiliary memory 903 according to the program. The control unit can also cause the processor 901 to perform addition, update, and deletion operations on data stored in the memory unit according to the various programs. 【0199】 The term "database" refers to a relational database, which is used to manage and associate data sets called tables and masters, which are structured in a tabular format defined by rows and columns. In a database, tables are called tables, masters are called masters, the columns of tables are called columns, and the rows of tables are called records. In a relational database, relationships can be established and linked between tables and masters. Typically, each table and each master has a primary key column to uniquely identify a record, but setting a primary key for a column is not mandatory. The control unit can cause the processor 901 to add, delete, and update records in specific tables and masters stored in the storage unit according to various programs. Furthermore, by storing data, various programs, and various databases in the storage unit, the information processing device and information processing system described in this disclosure can be considered manufactured. 【0200】 Furthermore, the databases and masters in this disclosure may include any data structures (lists, dictionaries, associative arrays, objects, etc.) in which information is structurally defined. Data structures also include data that can be considered as data structures by combining data with functions, classes, methods, etc., written in any programming language. 【0201】 The communication unit is implemented by the communication IF 991. The communication unit implements the function of communicating with other computers 90 via the network. The communication unit can receive information transmitted from other computers 90 and input it to the control unit. The control unit can cause the processor 901 to perform information processing on the received information according to various programs. The communication unit can also transmit information output from the control unit to other computers 90. 【0202】 <7. Addendum> The embodiments described above are detailed explanations of the configuration in order to make the present disclosure easier to understand, and are not necessarily limited to those having all the configurations described. In addition, some of the configurations of each embodiment can be added to, deleted from, or replaced with other configurations. 【0203】 Furthermore, each of the above-mentioned configurations, functions, processing units, processing means, etc., may be implemented in hardware, in whole or in part, for example, by designing them as integrated circuits. The present invention can also be implemented by software program code that realizes the functions of the embodiment. In this case, a storage medium on which the program code is recorded is provided to a computer, and the processor of that computer reads the program code stored in the storage medium. In this case, the program code read from the storage medium itself realizes the functions of the embodiment described above, and the program code itself and the storage medium on which it is stored constitute the present invention. Examples of storage media used to supply such program code include flexible disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, hard disks, SSDs, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-Rs, magnetic tapes, non-volatile memory cards, ROMs, and the like. 【0204】 Furthermore, the program code that implements the functions described in this embodiment can be implemented in a wide range of programming or scripting languages, such as assembler, C / C++, Perl, Shell, PHP, and Java®. 【0205】Furthermore, the program code for the software that implements the functions of the embodiment may be distributed via a network and stored in a storage means such as a computer's hard disk or memory, or in a storage medium such as a CD-RW or CD-R, and the computer's processor may read and execute the program code stored in the storage means or storage medium. 【0206】The details described in each of the above embodiments are noted below. (Note 1) A beverage supply system (1) comprising a first terminal (10) and a dispenser (20) configured to communicate with each other, wherein the first terminal (10) has a beverage information generation unit (195) that generates beverage information relating to a custom beverage based on user input, and a first communication unit (120) that transmits information including the beverage information generated by the beverage information generation unit (195), the dispenser (20) has a storage unit (23) that stores a plurality of beverage liquids including a first beverage liquid containing alcohol and a second beverage liquid that does not contain alcohol, a second communication unit (201) that receives information including beverage information, and a supply unit (27, 28, 29) that mixes the plurality of beverage liquids stored in the storage unit (23) to generate and provide a custom beverage based on the beverage information received by the second communication unit (201), and the first communication unit (120) of the first terminal (10) further transmits the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser (20). (Note 2) The beverage supply system according to Note 1, wherein the first beverage is a beer-flavored concentrate and the alcohol concentration of the beer-flavored concentrate is 15% or more. (Note 3) The beverage supply system according to Note 1 or 2, wherein the first beverage is an alcoholic beverage and the alcohol concentration of the alcoholic beverage is 35% (v / v) or more. (Note 4) The beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 3, wherein the beverage information generation unit (195) generates beverage information including flavor to be given to the custom beverage, the storage unit (23) stores the flavoring seasonings, and the supply unit (27, 28, 29) mixes multiple beverages and seasonings based on the beverage information to generate and provide the custom beverage. (Note 5) The beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 4, wherein the beverage information generation unit (195) generates beverage information including the alcohol percentage or amount of alcohol of a custom beverage, and the supply unit (27, 28, 29) generates and provides a custom beverage having the specified alcohol percentage or amount of alcohol based on the beverage information.(Note 6) A beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 5, wherein the beverage information generation unit (195) generates beverage information including the amount or number of servings of the custom beverage, and the supply unit (27, 28, 29) generates and provides the custom beverage in the specified amount or number of servings based on the beverage information. (Note 7) A beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 6, wherein the beverage information generation unit (195) accepts input of age information about the drinker of the custom beverage, and if this age information is above the legal drinking age in the country where the dispenser (20) is located, it generates beverage information. (Note 8) A beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 7, wherein the supply unit (27, 28, 29) accepts input of age information about the drinker of the custom beverage, and if this age information is above the legal drinking age in the country where the dispenser (20) is located, it generates and provides the custom beverage. (Note 9) The beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 8, wherein the dispenser (20) further has a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of beverage liquid stored in the storage unit (23), and when the supply unit (27, 28, 29) generates a custom beverage based on the beverage information, it determines whether at least one of the multiple beverage liquids stored in the storage unit (23) is insufficient based on the remaining amount of beverage liquid detected by the remaining amount detection unit, the second communication unit (201) transmits shortage information indicating that there is a shortage of beverage liquid, the first communication unit (120) receives the shortage information, and the beverage information generation unit (195) proposes generating beverage information using beverage liquids other than the one that is insufficient based on the shortage information.(Note 10) The beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 9, wherein the dispenser (20) further has a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of beverage liquid stored in the storage unit (23), and when the supply unit (27, 28, 29) generates a custom beverage based on the beverage information, it determines whether at least one of the multiple beverage liquids stored in the storage unit (23) is insufficient based on the remaining amount of beverage liquid detected by the remaining amount detection unit, the second communication unit (201) transmits insufficient information indicating that there is insufficient beverage liquid, the first communication unit (120) receives the insufficient information, and the beverage information generation unit (195) proposes generating beverage information based on the amount or number of custom beverages that can be generated with the remaining amount of beverage liquid. (Note 11) The beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 10, wherein the dispenser (20) further includes a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of beverage liquid stored in the storage unit (23), and a first notification unit that notifies the replacement of beverage liquid when the remaining amount detected by the remaining amount detection unit is below a predetermined value. (Note 12) The beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 11, wherein the beverage supply system (1) has a plurality of dispensers (20), a beverage information generation unit (195) generates beverage information including designation information for a dispenser (20) among the plurality of dispensers (20) that will produce a custom beverage, and a supply unit (27, 28, 29) generates and provides a custom beverage based on the beverage information including designation information for its own dispenser (20). (Note 13) The beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 12, wherein the supply unit (27, 28, 29) calculates the waiting time or number of cups waiting for the production and serving of the custom beverage based on the received beverage information when the second communication unit (201) receives beverage information other than beverage information relating to the custom beverage being produced during the production process of the custom beverage, and the dispenser (20) further has a second notification unit that notifies the supply unit (27, 28, 29) of the waiting time or number of cups waiting calculated by the supply unit (27, 28, 29).(Note 14) A beverage supply system (1) according to any of Notes 1 to 13, wherein when the second communication unit (201) receives beverage information other than beverage information relating to the custom beverage being prepared during the preparation process of a custom beverage, the supply unit (27, 28, 29) calculates the waiting time or number of waiting cups until the preparation and provision of the custom beverage based on the received beverage information, the second communication unit (201) transmits the waiting time or number of waiting cups, the first communication unit (120) receives the waiting time or number of waiting cups, and the beverage information preparation unit (195) notifies the first communication unit (120) of the waiting time or number of waiting cups received by the first communication unit (120). (Note 15) The beverage information generation unit (195) calculates the cumulative amount of alcohol based on the beverage information generated by the beverage information generation unit on a daily basis, and if the sum of this cumulative amount and the amount of alcohol included in the beverage information based on user input exceeds the appropriate amount of alcohol based on the appropriate amount of drinking in the country where the dispenser (20) is located, the beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 14 provides a notification that the appropriate amount of alcohol has been exceeded. (Note 16) The second communication unit (201) transmits a notification that the generation and provision of the custom beverage by the provision unit (27, 28, 29) has finished, and the first communication unit (120) receives the notification and, based on the notification, the beverage information generation unit (195) provides a notification of whether or not to generate beverage information again for the custom beverage that has finished being generated and provided. (Note 17) A beverage supply system (1) according to any one of Notes 1 to 16, wherein a second communication unit (201) transmits a notification that the production and provision of custom beverages by the supply units (27, 28, 29) has finished, and a first communication unit (120), upon receiving the notification, transmits beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser (20).(Note 18) A method for producing a custom beverage using a beverage supply system (1) comprising a first terminal (10) and a dispenser (20) configured to communicate with each other, wherein the first terminal (10) generates beverage information relating to the custom beverage based on user input and transmits information including the generated beverage information, the dispenser (20) receives the information including the beverage information and, based on the received beverage information, mixes a plurality of beverage liquids including a first beverage liquid containing alcohol and a second beverage liquid not containing alcohol to produce and provide the custom beverage, and the first terminal (10) further transmits the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser (20). (Note 19) A beverage supply system (1) comprising a first terminal (10) and a dispenser (20) configured to communicate with each other, wherein the program is for operating the first terminal (10) having a processor, and the program causes the processor to perform the steps of generating beverage information relating to a custom beverage based on user input, transmitting information including the generated beverage information, and transmitting the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser (20). 【0207】 1...System 10...First terminal 20...Dispenser 25...Liquid level detection unit 27...Mixing unit 28, 202, 402...Control unit 29...Injection unit 40...External server 120...First communication unit 180, 202, 402...Storage unit 182, 4022...User DB 183...Beverage information 184, 2022...Beverage information DB 190...Control unit 195...Beverage information generation unit 201...Second communication unit 201 202...Storage unit 203...Control unit 2033...Beverage information acquisition module 2034...Serving unit control module 2035...Liquid level detection module 4023...Recipe DB 4024...Recipe data 4025...Pre-configured beverage DB 4026...Pre-configured beverage information

Claims

1. A beverage supply system comprising a first terminal and a dispenser configured to communicate with each other, wherein the first terminal includes a beverage information generation unit that generates beverage information relating to a custom beverage based on user input, and a first communication unit that transmits information including the beverage information generated by the beverage information generation unit; the dispenser includes a storage unit that stores a plurality of beverage liquids including a first beverage liquid containing alcohol and a second beverage liquid that does not contain alcohol, a second communication unit that receives information including the beverage information, and a supply unit that mixes the plurality of beverage liquids stored in the storage unit to generate and provide the custom beverage based on the beverage information received by the second communication unit, wherein the first communication unit of the first terminal further transmits the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser.

2. The beverage serving system according to claim 1, wherein the first beverage liquid is a beer-flavored concentrate, and the alcohol concentration of the beer-flavored concentrate is 15% (v / v) or higher.

3. The beverage serving system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first beverage is an alcoholic beverage, and the alcohol concentration of the alcoholic beverage is 35% (v / v) or higher.

4. The beverage information generation unit generates beverage information including the flavor to be given to the custom beverage; the storage unit stores the seasonings that give the flavor; and the providing unit mixes a plurality of beverage liquids and the seasonings based on the beverage information to generate and provide the custom beverage according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The beverage information generation unit generates beverage information including the alcohol percentage or amount of alcohol of the custom beverage, and the supply unit generates and provides the custom beverage having the specified alcohol percentage or amount of alcohol based on the beverage information, according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The beverage information generation unit generates the beverage information including the amount or number of servings of the custom beverage, and the supply unit generates and provides the custom beverage in the specified amount or number of servings based on the beverage information, according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The beverage information generation unit accepts input of age information for the drinker of the custom beverage, and if this age information is above the age at which drinking is permitted in the country where the dispenser is located, it generates the beverage information according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The beverage dispensing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the dispensing unit accepts input of age information about the drinker of the custom beverage, and if this age information is above the age at which drinking is permitted in the country where the dispenser is located, it produces and provides the custom beverage.

9. The beverage supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the dispenser further has a remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the beverage stored in the storage unit, the supply unit, in generating the custom beverage based on the beverage information, determines whether at least one of the multiple beverages stored in the storage unit is insufficient based on the remaining amount of the beverage detected by the remaining amount detection unit, the second communication unit transmits shortage information indicating that the beverage is insufficient, the first communication unit receives the shortage information, and the beverage information generation unit proposes generating the beverage information using the beverages other than the insufficient beverage based on the shortage information.

10. The beverage supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the dispenser further includes a remaining amount detection unit for detecting the remaining amount of the beverage stored in the storage unit, the supply unit, in generating the custom beverage based on the beverage information, determines whether at least one of the plurality of beverages stored in the storage unit is insufficient based on the remaining amount of the beverage detected by the remaining amount detection unit, the second communication unit transmits shortage information indicating that the beverage is insufficient, the first communication unit receives the shortage information, and the beverage information generation unit proposes generating beverage information based on the amount or number of servings of the custom beverage that can be generated with the remaining amount of the beverage, based on the shortage information.

11. The beverage dispensing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the dispenser further comprises a remaining amount detection unit for detecting the remaining amount of the beverage stored in the storage unit, and a first notification unit for notifying the replacement of the beverage when the remaining amount detected by the remaining amount detection unit is below a predetermined value.

12. The beverage supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the beverage supply system has a plurality of dispensers, the beverage information generation unit generates beverage information including information specifying which dispenser among the plurality of dispensers will produce the custom beverage, and the supply unit generates and provides the custom beverage based on the beverage information including information specifying its own dispenser.

13. The beverage supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the supply unit, when the second communication unit receives beverage information other than the beverage information relating to the custom beverage being prepared during the preparation process, calculates the waiting time or number of cups waiting until the preparation and provision of the custom beverage based on the received beverage information, and the dispenser further comprises a second notification unit that notifies the supply unit of the waiting time or number of cups waiting calculated by the supply unit.

14. The beverage supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, during the production of the custom beverage, if the second communication unit receives beverage information other than the beverage information relating to the custom beverage in the process, the supply unit calculates the waiting time or number of waiting cups until the custom beverage is produced and served based on the received beverage information; the second communication unit transmits the waiting time or number of waiting cups; the first communication unit receives the waiting time or number of waiting cups; and the beverage information generation unit notifies the first communication unit of the waiting time or number of waiting cups received.

15. The beverage information generation unit calculates the cumulative amount of alcohol based on the beverage information generated by the beverage information generation unit on a daily basis, and if the sum of this cumulative amount and the amount of alcohol contained in the beverage information based on the user's operation input exceeds the appropriate amount of alcohol based on the appropriate drinking amount in the country where the dispenser is located, the beverage provision system according to any one of claims 1 to 14 provides notification that the appropriate amount of alcohol has been exceeded.

16. The beverage supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the second communication unit transmits a notification that the supply unit has finished generating and providing the custom beverage, the first communication unit receives the notification, and the beverage information generation unit, based on the notification, notifies whether or not to generate the beverage information relating to the custom beverage that has finished generating and providing.

17. The beverage supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the second communication unit transmits a notification that the production and provision of the custom beverage by the supply unit has been completed, and the first communication unit, upon receiving the notification, transmits the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser.

18. A method for producing a custom beverage using a beverage supply system comprising a first terminal and a dispenser configured to communicate with each other, wherein the first terminal generates beverage information relating to a custom beverage based on user input and transmits information including the generated beverage information; the dispenser receives the information including the beverage information and, based on the received beverage information, mixes a plurality of beverage liquids including a first beverage liquid containing alcohol and a second beverage liquid not containing alcohol to produce and provide the custom beverage; and the first terminal further transmits the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser.

19. A beverage supply system comprising a first terminal and a dispenser configured to communicate with each other, wherein the program causes the first terminal having a processor to perform the following steps: generating beverage information relating to a custom beverage based on user input; transmitting information including the generated beverage information; and transmitting the beverage information to a second terminal different from the dispenser.

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