Information processing method, information processing device, and program

Abstract

This information processing method is executed by a server of a ledger system including a distributed ledger. The information processing method comprises: issuing a non-fungible token (NFT) including first guarantee content indicating guarantee content of a property, a first guarantee period indicating a guarantee period of the first guarantee content, and information, with regard to a first decider, indicating a decider of the first guarantee content; determining a residual value of the property; and executing processing for modifying the first guarantee period to a second guarantee period, the first guarantee content to a second guarantee content, and the first decider to a second decider, when determination is made that the first guarantee period for the property has ended, in accordance with the residual value (S150 to S190). The guarantee period, guarantee content, and information indicating the decider, which have been modified, are managed in the distributed ledger.

Description

Information processing method, information processing apparatus, and program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing method, an information processing apparatus, and a program.

[0002] As part of initiatives toward environmental consideration, there is a demand for enabling properties such as manufactured home appliances to be used over as long a term as possible. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an information processing apparatus that proposes improvements to the usage of electronic devices including home appliances so that users can use them over the long term, and also proposes repairs based on usage conditions.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2021-110998

[0004] By the way, with the extension of the service life of devices, it is assumed that users will use the relevant property through various business formats. In this case, it is desired that the responsibility for the warranty of the property used by the user is appropriately managed.

[0005] Accordingly, the present disclosure provides an information processing method, an information processing apparatus, and a program capable of appropriately managing responsibility for the warranty of a property used by a user.

[0006] An information processing method according to an aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method executed by a server of a ledger system including a distributed ledger, the method comprising: issuing an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) including information on first warranty content indicating warranty content of a property, a first warranty period indicating a warranty period of the first warranty content, and a first determiner indicating a determiner of the first warranty content; determining a residual value of the property; executing processing for changing the first warranty period to a second warranty period, changing the first warranty content to second warranty content, and changing the first determiner to a second determiner in accordance with the residual value, wherein information indicating the changed warranty period, the changed warranty content, and the changed determiner is managed by the distributed ledger.

[0007] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device executed by a server of a ledger system having a distributed ledger, comprising: a first processing unit that issues an NFT including information relating to a first guarantee content indicating the guarantee content of an item, a first guarantee period indicating the guarantee period of the first guarantee content, and a first decision-maker indicating the decision-maker of the first guarantee content; and a second processing unit that executes processing to change the first guarantee period to a second guarantee period, the first guarantee content to a second guarantee content, and the first decision-maker to a second decision-maker according to the remaining value of the item, wherein the changed guarantee period, the guarantee content, and the information indicating the decision-maker are managed in the distributed ledger.

[0008] A program relating to one aspect of this disclosure is a program that causes a computer to execute the above-described information processing method.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to realize an information processing method that can appropriately manage the user's responsibility for guarantees of the property they are using.

[0010] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a refrigerator according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a ledger server according to an embodiment. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operations performed by the ledger server according to an embodiment. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of information contained in an NFT according to an embodiment. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing the operations related to the modification of a guarantee token performed by the information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the operations related to a repair request performed by the information processing system according to an embodiment. Figure 8 is a table showing access rights to repair information according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of a blockchain, which is an example of a distributed ledger. Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of transaction data. Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram showing transaction data related to the execution of a smart contract. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the processing related to the execution of a smart contract. Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of an NFT and metadata.

[0011] (Background to this disclosure) In recent years, from the perspective of the circular economy and other factors, there has been a desire for longer lifespans of products such as home appliances, and various studies are being conducted. As the lifespan of equipment increases, it will be possible to use the equipment for a longer period of time, so it is expected that the business model (sales model) for the equipment will change during the equipment's lifespan. Examples of business models for equipment include a business model that provides equipment through a subscription service, a business model that provides equipment through a lease service, and a business model that sells used equipment.

[0012] A subscription is a system where you can use equipment or services for a fixed period by paying a fixed fee. A lease is a system where equipment or other assets are leased to a user on a long-term basis. In the case of a lease, the user can use the assets for a long period by paying a fixed monthly lease fee.

[0013] When the business model changes, the service provider and the warranty terms may also change. The service provider is responsible for extending the lifespan of the property by handling repairs and disclosing information about the property. Clearly managing the responsibility for extending the lifespan of the property is useful for extending its lifespan.

[0014] Therefore, the inventors of this application have diligently studied information processing methods that can appropriately manage the responsibility for the warranty of the equipment used by the user, and have devised the following information processing methods.

[0015] An information processing method according to a first aspect of this disclosure is an information processing method executed by a server of a ledger system equipped with a distributed ledger, which includes issuing an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) containing information on a first guarantee content indicating the guarantee content of an item, a first guarantee period indicating the guarantee period of the first guarantee content, and a first decision-maker indicating the decision-maker of the first guarantee content; determining the residual value of the item; and executing a process to change the first guarantee period to a second guarantee period, the first guarantee content to a second guarantee content, and the first decision-maker to a second decision-maker according to the residual value; the changed guarantee period, the guarantee content, and the information indicating the decision-maker are managed in the distributed ledger.

[0016] This allows the decision-making authority and warranty details that change as a result of the transition from the first warranty period to the second warranty period to be managed in a distributed ledger. In other words, since the decision-making authority corresponding to warranty responsibility is managed in a distributed ledger, it becomes possible to realize an information processing method that appropriately manages responsibility for the warranty of the equipment used by the user.

[0017] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method according to the second embodiment may be the information processing method according to the first embodiment, the first warranty period may be the period during which the goods are provided in the first business form, and the second warranty period may be the period during which the goods are provided in a second business form different from the first business form.

[0018] This allows for proper management of responsibility regarding warranties for equipment used by users when the business model changes, as decision-making authority and warranty terms are altered during such transitions.

[0019] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method relating to the third embodiment may be the information processing method relating to the second embodiment, wherein the first business type is a business type that provides the goods by either a subscription contract or a lease contract, and the second business type is a business type that provides the goods by the other of the subscription contract or the lease contract.

[0020] This allows for proper management of responsibility for the warranty of equipment used by users when the business model switches from a subscription agreement to a lease agreement to the other.

[0021] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method relating to the fourth embodiment may be an information processing method relating to the second or third embodiment, wherein the first business type is a business type that provides the property through a subscription contract or lease contract, and the second business type is a business type that provides the property by selling it as a used item.

[0022] This allows for proper management of responsibility for warranties on equipment used by users when the business model shifts from subscription or lease agreements to selling used goods outright.

[0023] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method relating to the fifth embodiment is an information processing method relating to any of the second to fourth embodiments, and the change in the warranty content may include changing from the first warranty content corresponding to the first business type to the second warranty content corresponding to the second business type.

[0024] This makes it possible to manage warranty coverage according to the type of business.

[0025] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method relating to the sixth embodiment may be an information processing method relating to any of the first to fifth embodiments, and the determination of the remaining value may be performed based on the operational information of the property.

[0026] This allows the warranty period to be switched according to the operating information of the equipment.

[0027] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method relating to the seventh embodiment may be an information processing method relating to any of the first to sixth embodiments, and the determination of the remaining value may be performed by the property.

[0028] This allows the device measuring operational information to determine when the warranty period needs to be switched.

[0029] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method relating to the eighth aspect is an information processing method relating to any of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the NFT includes information regarding the warranty period set for the property, and the information processing method may perform processing to change the decision-maker and the warranty content if the warranty period has not yet elapsed.

[0030] This allows for proper management of warranty liability during the period in which the warranty coverage applies.

[0031] Furthermore, for example, the information processing method relating to the ninth embodiment may be an information processing method relating to any of the first to eighth embodiments, which may obtain a repair request for the property, determine whether or not it has the authority to access the repair information for the property, and if it is determined that it has the authority, it may perform access to the repair information for the property.

[0032] This allows for proper access control to repair information.

[0033] Furthermore, for example, the information processing device according to the tenth embodiment is an information processing device executed by a server of a ledger system equipped with a distributed ledger, and comprises: a first processing unit that issues an NFT containing information on a first guarantee content indicating the guarantee content of an item, a first guarantee period indicating the guarantee period of the first guarantee content, and a first decision-maker indicating the decision-maker of the first guarantee content; and a second processing unit that executes processing to change the first guarantee period to a second guarantee period, the first guarantee content to a second guarantee content, and the first decision-maker to a second decision-maker according to the remaining value of the item, wherein the changed guarantee period, the guarantee content, and the information indicating the decision-maker are managed in the distributed ledger.

[0034] This produces the same effect as the information processing method described above.

[0035] Furthermore, the program relating to the 11th aspect is a program that causes a computer to execute an information processing method relating to any one of the first to 9th aspects.

[0036] This produces the same effect as the information processing method described above.

[0037] These general or specific embodiments may be implemented using a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or a non-temporary recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or any combination of a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium. The program may be pre-stored on the recording medium or supplied to the recording medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0038] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0039] It should be noted that all of the embodiments described below are comprehensive or specific examples. Numerical values, constituent elements, arrangement positions and connection forms of constituent elements, steps, order of steps, and the like shown in the following embodiments are examples, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Among the constituent elements in the following embodiments, constituent elements not recited in the independent claims are described as optional constituent elements.

[0040] Furthermore, each drawing is a schematic diagram, and is not necessarily strictly illustrated. Therefore, for example, scales and the like do not necessarily match in each drawing. In each drawing, substantially identical configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions are omitted or simplified. In addition, for convenience, English notations are described in part of the drawings for reference. The English notations do not necessarily match the Japanese notations in the specification in some cases.

[0041] In addition, in the present specification, terms indicating the relationship between elements such as "the same", as well as numerical values and numerical ranges, are not expressions that represent only strict meanings, but expressions that mean that they include substantially equivalent ranges, for example, differences of about several percent (or about 10%).

[0042] In addition, in the present specification, when description is made by contrast with "equal to or greater than a threshold" and "less than a threshold", for example, it means that the cases are distinguished with the threshold as a boundary, and may also mean greater than the threshold and equal to or less than the threshold, respectively.

[0043] In addition, in the present specification, ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" do not mean the number or order of constituent elements unless otherwise specified, and are used for the purpose of avoiding confusion between constituent elements of the same type and distinguishing them.

[0044] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, an information processing apparatus and the like according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13.

[0045] [1. Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus] First, the configuration of the information processing system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the information processing system 10 according to the present embodiment. Note that FIG. 1 shows an exemplary functional configuration of the information processing system 10, and the functional configuration of the information processing system 10 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 10 includes ledger servers 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d, and further includes a refrigerator 100 in the present embodiment. These are communicably connected via a communication network 300. Further, the ledger servers 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d constitute a ledger system (distributed ledger system).

[0047] The ledger system is a system that stores information using a distributed ledger. Various types of data can be stored in the distributed ledger included in the ledger system. The data stored in the distributed ledger of the ledger system may be, for example, the generation history of an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) associated with a property in real space, a history of changes to said NFT, or the like. Said NFT may be an NFT (also referred to as a guarantee token) that manages the responsibility for guarantee of a device in real space on a distributed ledger. The property may be, for example, a home appliance, an item not connected to the Internet, or the like. Further, the home appliance may be an IoT (Internet of Things) home appliance having a communication function. In the present embodiment, an example where the device is the refrigerator 100 will be described, but the device is not limited to being the refrigerator 100.

[0048] The ledger system can execute processing by smart contracts using a distributed ledger. The ledger system can generate guarantee tokens and implement processing related to the update of guarantee tokens by using processing based on smart contracts. Guarantee tokens are also referred to as, for example, cyber tokens or R2R (Record-to-Report) tokens.

[0049] Ledger server 200a is a computer server that owns and manages the distributed ledger. Ledger server 200a owns the distributed ledger and updates it in synchronization with other ledger servers (specifically ledger servers 200b, 200c, and 200d).

[0050] Ledger servers 200b, 200c, and 200d are all servers similar to ledger server 200a, and operate independently of ledger server 200a.

[0051] Hereafter, ledger servers 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d will be referred to as ledger server 200a, etc., or ledger servers 200a to 200d. Similarly, storage devices 201a, 201b, 201c, and 201d will be referred to as storage device 201a, etc.

[0052] The ledger server 200a, etc., is connected to the storage device 201a, etc. The ledger server 200a, etc., may be connected to the storage device 201a, etc., via a communication network 300, or it may have the storage device 201a, etc., built into it. The storage device 201a, etc., has a distributed ledger on which blockchain transaction data and blocks are electronically recorded.

[0053] The ledger system will use blockchain-based distributed ledger management. The number of ledger servers constituting the ledger system is not limited to four; one or more are acceptable.

[0054] Each ledger server in the ledger system is managed by a company involved in the manufacturing and maintenance of the refrigerator 100. In this embodiment, ledger server 200a is managed by the finished product company (also called the manufacturer) that manufactures the refrigerator 100, ledger server 200b is managed by the platform provider, ledger server 200c is managed by the refrigerator 100 repair company, and ledger server 200d is managed by the parts company that manufactures the parts (and / or materials) used in the refrigerator 100. The platform provider is a business that provides the equipment, such as a business that provides subscription services, a business that provides leasing services, or a business that sells used goods. The business is just one example of a decision-maker.

[0055] Thus, the ledger system consists of servers belonging to stakeholders such as finished product companies, repair companies, and parts suppliers, as well as to various businesses involved in the manufacturing and maintenance of equipment, such as platform providers. Hereafter, finished product companies, platform providers, repair companies, and parts suppliers will be referred to as "businesses."

[0056] Each of the ledger servers 200a to 200d may be managed by a third party other than the business operator. In that case, the business operator may manage a server (not shown) that is different from each of the ledger servers and communicate with the ledger servers 200a to 200d through that server.

[0057] Information processing system 10 is a system for each business operator of refrigerators 100 to cooperate in appropriately managing the responsibility for warranties, the content of warranties, and the management of changes to the refrigerators 100 for long-term use. Information processing system 10 is a system that supports the extension of the lifespan of equipment by enabling each business operator to cooperate by sharing and updating information on warranty responsibility using a distributed ledger such as blockchain. Furthermore, as the lifespan of equipment increases, supply chains may become more complex and businesses may change. Since this information is also managed in a distributed ledger, information sharing becomes easier, allowing for smoother transitions between businesses.

[0058] The following will describe each component of the information processing system 10 with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the refrigerator 100 according to this embodiment.

[0059] As shown in Figure 2, the refrigerator 100 includes a communication unit 110, a determination unit 120, a transaction data generation unit 130, a control unit 140, and a storage unit 150. At least some of the functional units of the refrigerator 100 are realized by the processor (e.g., CPU) of the refrigerator 100 executing a program using memory. A server (not shown) that can communicate with the refrigerator 100 may also include the determination unit 120 and the transaction data generation unit 130.

[0060] The communication unit 110 is a communication interface that is connected to the communication network 300 in a communicative manner. The communication unit 110 may be a communication interface for a wired communication standard (e.g., Ethernet®), or a communication interface for a wireless communication standard (e.g., Wi-Fi®), or a mobile communication system (3G, 4G, or 5G, etc.). The communication unit 110 is used when a functional unit of the refrigerator 100 communicates with other devices. For example, the communication unit 110 is used when a functional unit of the refrigerator 100 communicates with a ledger server 200a or the like. The communication unit 110 may be configured to include, for example, a communication circuit (or communication module).

[0061] The determination unit 120 determines whether the warranty period set for the refrigerator 100 has reached a threshold. The threshold may be the end date of the warranty period. Determining whether the warranty period has reached a threshold can also be said to be determining whether the current state of the refrigerator 100 is a state that transitions to a different business model. Specifically, the determination unit 120 can also be said to determine whether the current state of the refrigerator 100 is suitable for a subscription service, a lease service, or a one-time sale. A one-time sale may refer to selling the refrigerator 100 as a used item.

[0062] The determination unit 120 calculates the residual value of the refrigerator 100 when it determines that the warranty period set for the refrigerator 100 has reached a threshold. The determination unit 120 determines whether the calculated residual value is equal to or greater than the threshold, and if it is less than the threshold, it determines to switch the warranty period, that is, to switch the business type for the refrigerator 100, or to switch the business operator that manages the refrigerator 100. Switching the business type for the refrigerator 100 means, for example, switching from a subscription service to a lease service. Switching business operators means switching the business operator that provides services in that business type without changing the business type or the refrigerator 100. For example, if the business type is a subscription, switching business operators means switching the business operator that provides subscription services for one refrigerator 100 from business operator A to business operator B.

[0063] The period before the change in business type or operator is the first guarantee period, and the period after the change in business type or management company (the period after the first guarantee period) is the second guarantee period. The content of the guarantee may differ between the first and second guarantee periods, and the business operator responsible for the guarantee may also differ.

[0064] If the business model is subscription service, lease service, or outright sale, the warranty period may be longest for subscription service, lease service, and then outright sale, or the warranty period may be the same for subscription and lease services. Furthermore, the warranty period is not limited to the above order and may be in any order.

[0065] The residual value is calculated based on at least one of the following: operational information indicating the usage history of the refrigerator 100 (for example, the operating time from the start of use to the present, the number of times the refrigerator door has been opened and closed, and the number of times it has been used by multiple users within the business); and condition information indicating the inspection and repair history and score of the refrigerator 100. The inspection and repair history and score of the refrigerator 100 may be, for example, the results of acoustic crack measurement of the casing, the repair history, or a score calculated based on the inspection and repair history. The residual value is a relative value calculated based on the value of the refrigerator 100 at the time of completion.

[0066] The transaction data generation unit 130 generates transaction data on the blockchain based on the determination result of the determination unit 120, etc. For example, the transaction data generation unit 130 generates transaction data that includes the blockchain address held by the user, the data managed on the blockchain, and a signature. The transaction data generation unit 130 may also generate transaction data that includes a smart contract. The smart contract may be for executing a process that changes the contents of a guarantee token.

[0067] The control unit 140 controls each component of the refrigerator 100. The control unit 140 manages the operation information and status information of the refrigerator 100 acquired by sensors or the like. The control unit 140 may, for example, store the operation information and status information of the refrigerator 100 in the storage unit 150.

[0068] The storage unit 150 stores information such as transaction data generated by the transaction data generation unit 130. The storage unit 150 is implemented using a non-volatile storage device (such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive)).

[0069] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the ledger server 200a according to this embodiment. Since the configurations of ledger servers 200b, 200c, and 200d are the same as those of ledger server 200a, the explanation will be given using ledger server 200a as an example.

[0070] As shown in Figure 3, the ledger server 200a comprises a communication unit 211, a ledger management unit 212, an execution unit 213, a storage unit 214, and a control unit 215. At least a portion of the functional units of the ledger server 200a are realized by the processor (e.g., CPU) of the ledger server 200a executing programs using memory.

[0071] The communication unit 211 is a communication interface that is connected to the communication network 300 in a communicative manner. The communication unit 211 may be a communication interface for a wired communication standard (e.g., Ethernet®), or a communication interface for a wireless communication standard (e.g., Wi-Fi®), or a mobile communication system (3G, 4G, or 5G, etc.). The communication unit 211 is used when a functional unit of the ledger server 200a communicates with other devices. For example, the communication unit 211 is used when a functional unit of the ledger server 200a communicates with the refrigerator 100, ledger servers 200b, 200c, and 200d. The communication unit 211 may be configured to include, for example, a communication circuit (or communication module).

[0072] The ledger management unit 212 performs processing related to the distributed ledger 214a and transaction data. Specifically, when the ledger management unit 212 receives transaction data from the refrigerator 100, it verifies the digital signature contained in the received transaction data and controls the storage unit 214 to store the transaction data that has been successfully verified in the distributed ledger 214a it holds. When storing transaction data in the distributed ledger 214a, the ledger management unit 212 can generate a block containing the transaction data to be stored and, if an agreement is reached with the ledger management units of other ledger servers, namely ledger servers 200b, 200c, and 200d, regarding the generated block, it can control the storage unit to store the block in the distributed ledger 214a.

[0073] The execution unit 213 performs information processing. The execution unit 213 can perform information processing by, for example, executing a smart contract using the distributed ledger 214a. If a smart contract is not used, the execution unit 213 performs information processing according to normal program code.

[0074] The execution unit 213 performs NFT-related processing, such as generating a guarantee token, as an example of the above information processing. For example, when a device is produced, the execution unit 213 generates a guarantee token that corresponds one-to-one with the produced device and stores it in the distributed ledger 214a.

[0075] The memory unit 214 is a storage device that stores information. The memory unit 214 stores the distributed ledger 214a. The memory unit 214 is implemented by a non-volatile storage device (SSD or HDD), etc.

[0076] The distributed ledger 214a stores data having a structure in which blocks containing one or more transaction data are linked together in a chain. The one or more transaction data stored in the distributed ledger 214a include transaction data containing the contract code of a smart contract, transaction data containing instructions to execute a smart contract, or transaction data containing other information. In this embodiment, the distributed ledger 214a is a blockchain.

[0077] The control unit 215 performs various processes related to storing transaction data from the refrigerator 100 in the distributed ledger 214a. For example, the control unit 215 performs processes such as data decryption and hash value comparison.

[0078] [2. Operation of the Information Processing System] Next, the operation of the information processing system 10 configured as described above will be explained with reference to Figures 4 to 8. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation (information processing method) performed by the ledger server 200a according to this embodiment. In the following explanation, the processing performed by one ledger server will be described as being performed by the ledger server 200a, but it may also be performed by the ledger servers 200b to 200d.

[0079] As shown in Figure 4, the execution unit 213 of the ledger server 200a acquires information indicating that the refrigerator 100 is complete (S10). The information indicating that the refrigerator 100 is complete may be an NFT issuance request. When the ledger server 200a receives an NFT issuance request, it generates a guarantee token (NFT), which is a token (NFT) that corresponds one-to-one with the refrigerator 100, based on the address included in the issuance request, and stores it in the distributed ledger 214a (S20). The issuance of the guarantee token may be performed using a smart contract stored in the distributed ledger 214a. The execution unit 213 functions as a first processing unit that issues the guarantee token.

[0080] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of information contained in an NFT according to this embodiment. An NFT is a unique token (in other words, a non-fungible token) issued by a ledger server 200a, which is a terminal of the finished product company, and stored in a distributed ledger 214a.

[0081] As shown in Figure 5, the NFT may include information such as a token ID indicating the token's identification, a terminal ID, the token's owner, the warranty details for the refrigerator 100, access rights to repair information, and the warranty period. The hash value of this information may also be included in the NFT.

[0082] The token ID represents identification information that uniquely identifies the guarantee token in question.

[0083] The terminal ID represents identification information that uniquely identifies the refrigerator 100. The terminal ID is initially issued by, for example, the ledger server 200a. The terminal ID may also be an address included in the issuance request.

[0084] The owner provides identification information that uniquely identifies the owner of the guarantee token. The owner has the authority to guarantee the equipment (in this case, refrigerator 100) that corresponds one-to-one with the guarantee token. This authority may also include the authority to modify the contents of the guarantee token. Furthermore, identification information that uniquely identifies refrigerator 100 may be initially set as the owner's information.

[0085] Furthermore, the owner may include identification information that uniquely identifies the business operator.

[0086] The warranty details for refrigerator 100 may also be the hash value of the warranty metadata.

[0087] Access rights to repair information may also be a hash value of metadata indicating access control to repair information.

[0088] The warranty period may indicate the number of days the warranty coverage lasts or the date and time the warranty coverage expires. For example, the warranty period may be set in accordance with laws and regulations, or it may be set independently by the business operator, such as a standard service life indicating the design useful life. The warranty period is determined when the warranty token is issued. The business operator or business type may change during the warranty period, and the warranty period may be changed each time the business type or business operator changes.

[0089] Furthermore, the guarantee token may include metadata of the guarantee details instead of a hash value of the guarantee details, or it may include metadata of the access control instead of a hash value of the access control.

[0090] The warranty may include information disclosure regarding refrigerator 100, repair services (free or paid), availability of replacement parts, and equipment replacement (e.g., replacement with a new unit). Information disclosure includes design information, 3D models, and disassembly information for refrigerator 100, which may be used during repairs. The warranty details can be arbitrarily set by the business that owns the warranty token. If the repair is a paid repair, the repair cost can also be arbitrarily set by the business. Furthermore, the warranty details may be set by a single business, or they may be set as a result of consultations between two or more businesses.

[0091] Referring again to Figure 4, the ledger server 200a transmits the issued guarantee token (S30). The ledger server 200a may transmit the guarantee token to each node of the ledger system, or it may transmit the guarantee token to the refrigerator 100.

[0092] In step S20, the guarantee token is written to the distributed ledger. The ledger server 200a has a rewritable storage area separate from the storage area where the distributed ledger is stored, and stores the guarantee content contained in the guarantee token in the rewritable storage area. At this time, the information contained in the guarantee token is written to the distributed ledger in a variable manner. For example, the guarantee token has strings, numbers, etc. as variables.

[0093] Next, the process for changing issued guarantee tokens will be explained with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing the operation (information processing method) for changing guarantee tokens executed by the information processing system 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 6 is a process that is executed at a predetermined timing after the execution of the steps shown in Figure 4, and is executed when the refrigerator 100 is provided to a user (used by a user) in any type of business.

[0094] The predetermined timing may also be the timing at which a request to change the guarantee token is received. The following is an example of the processing when the refrigerator 100 receives a request to change the guarantee token from the ledger server 200a. The request to change the guarantee token includes an identifier that uniquely identifies the requester and information regarding whether or not there has been a change in business type. The information regarding whether or not there has been a change in business type may be "yes" or "no," and the name of the business type to which the change will be made. The change request may also include the guarantee details and guarantee period set by the requester.

[0095] As shown in Figure 6, when the determination unit 120 of the refrigerator 100 receives a request to change the guarantee token, it calculates the residual value of the refrigerator 100 (S110). The residual value may be calculated using the operating information of the refrigerator 100. For example, a smaller value is calculated the longer the operating time is above the threshold. Specifically, the determination unit 120 reads the operating time up to the present from the storage unit 150 and calculates the current residual value based on the read operating time and a table showing the relationship between operating time and residual value. As an example, the residual value may be calculated using the formula (threshold - operating time) / threshold. For example, if the operating time is 80,000 hours and the threshold is 100,000 hours, a residual value of 20% is calculated. Also, for example, if the operating time is 150,000 hours and the threshold is 100,000 hours, a residual value of minus 50% is calculated. The refrigerator 100 may calculate the residual value at predetermined intervals. The residual value may also be calculated using the inspection and repair history and status information showing the score of the refrigerator 100. For example, the more the number of casing cracks measured during inspection exceeds a threshold, the smaller the value calculated may be. Alternatively, the residual value of the refrigerator 100 may be calculated using operational information and condition information.

[0096] Next, the determination unit 120 determines whether the calculated residual value is equal to or greater than a threshold (S120). The threshold is set in advance and stored in the storage unit 150. The threshold may be set for each type of business of the refrigerator 100. For example, the threshold for a subscription service may be set higher than the threshold for a lease service.

[0097] Next, if the determination unit 120 determines that the remaining value is above the threshold (Yes in S120), it terminates the process related to changing the guarantee token. If it determines that the remaining value is below the threshold (No in S120), it starts the process of changing the guarantee token (S130). If the determination unit 120 determines that the remaining value is below the threshold, it refers to the information regarding whether or not there is a change in business type included in the guarantee token change request. If the determination unit 120 determines that there is a change in business type, it determines that the business type for the refrigerator 100 will be changed, and that the new owner will change the guarantee token. Since the owner of the guarantee token has the authority to change the guarantee token, when the guarantee token is changed, the authority to change the guarantee token is also changed. Changing the guarantee token is equivalent to the warranty period for the refrigerator 100 switching from the first warranty period to the second warranty period.

[0098] Here, the determination unit 120 determines that the guarantee token should be changed at the finished product company terminal (i.e., the ledger server 200a). This corresponds to changing the owner of the guarantee token from the refrigerator 100 to the finished product company terminal. In the example described above, the destination was determined based on the identifier of the requesting party included in the guarantee token change request, but the destination could also be determined by referring to the information of the destination, which may be stored in advance in the distributed ledger.

[0099] If the determination unit 120 determines that the guarantee token should be changed, the transaction data generation unit 130 generates transaction data for changing the guarantee token and transmits the generated transaction data to the ledger server 200a via the communication unit 110 (S140). The transaction data for transferring the guarantee token may have the following data structure.

[0100] {from: old warranty provider, to: new warranty provider, warranty sheet {screw replacement: false, painting: true}}

[0101] The determination unit 120 may also determine, based on the residual value, whether to change the business model for the refrigerator 100 from the current model to any other business model. For example, the determination unit 120 may determine that if the residual value is less than 80%, it should be changed to a lease, and if it is less than 50%, it should be changed to a used goods sale. In this case, the determination unit 120 may include information indicating the changed business model in the transaction data. Also, different threshold values ​​may be set for each business model.

[0102] When the execution unit 213 of the ledger server 200a acquires transaction data, it verifies the signature of the transaction data, and if the signature verification is successful, it stores the transaction data in the distributed ledger 214a. In other words, the owner of the guarantee token is changed from the refrigerator 100 to the finished product company terminal.

[0103] At a predetermined timing after the owner of the warranty token has been changed to the finished product company terminal, the execution unit 213 determines whether the refrigerator 100 corresponding to the warranty token is within the finished product company's warranty period, based on whether the warranty period of the refrigerator 100's warranty token has expired (S150). The predetermined timing may also be the timing at which a request to change the warranty token is received.

[0104] Next, if the execution unit 213 determines that the refrigerator 100 is within the warranty period (Yes in S150), it refers to the latest owner of the warranty token and determines whether the finished product company terminal has the authority to make changes (S160). Note that each time a change is made to the warranty token, an owner identifier is added to the distributed ledger 214a, so the execution unit 213 may also identify the latest owner of the warranty token by referring to the distributed ledger 214a. For example, the execution unit 213 refers to the distributed ledger 214a and determines whether the latest owner of the warranty token matches the finished product company terminal.

[0105] In addition, when determining the authority to make changes in step S160, regardless of whether the guarantee token is changed, the device making the change may determine whether it has the authority to make changes to its own device at the time the guarantee token is changed.

[0106] Furthermore, if the execution unit 213 determines that the refrigerator 100 is outside the warranty period (No in S150), that is, if it determines that the warranty period has expired, it terminates the process. In this case, the ledger server 200a does not execute the token change process from the refrigerator 100. If the answer in step S150 is No, it can be said that the ledger server 200a prohibits the execution of the token change from the refrigerator 100.

[0107] If the execution unit 213 determines that the warranty period has expired, it executes the following process to change the owner and warranty details.

[0108] If the execution unit 213 determines that it has the authority to make a change (Yes in S160), it executes a process to change the guarantee token (S170). Based on the information indicating the changed business type included in the guarantee token change request, the execution unit 213 executes a process to change the owner of the guarantee token to the changed terminal. In the example in Figure 6, the execution unit 213 changes the guarantee token to the ledger server 200b, which is the platform terminal. Note that the change is not limited to changing the owner of the guarantee token; the guarantee period may also be changed from the second guarantee period to the third guarantee period, or the guarantee content may be changed from the second guarantee content to the third guarantee content.

[0109] Furthermore, if it is determined that the refrigerator 100 is outside the warranty period, the execution unit 213 may, in step S170, write information to the warranty token indicating that the warranty period for the refrigerator 100 has ended. This allows the warranty to be automatically terminated after the warranty period (for example, the warranty period of the finished product company) has expired, thereby preventing excessive warranty coverage.

[0110] The execution unit 213 generates transaction data to change the guarantee token to the ledger server 200b, and transmits the generated transaction data to the ledger server 200b via the communication unit 211 (S180).

[0111] The execution unit 213 functions as a second processing unit that executes processes to change the owner and warranty details in accordance with a change in the warranty period (for example, a change in business type).

[0112] For convenience, Figure 6 shows an example where transaction data is sent only to ledger server 200b, but the transaction data may also be sent to other ledger servers.

[0113] The processes in steps S170 and S180 are examples of processes for changing the owner and warranty details, and specifically correspond to the process in which information indicating the changed owner and warranty details is managed in a distributed ledger.

[0114] The execution unit of the ledger server 200b, upon acquiring transaction data, verifies the signature of the transaction data. If the signature verification is successful, it stores the transaction data in the distributed ledger. In other words, the change in the owner of the guarantee token from the finished product company terminal to the platformer terminal is stored in the distributed ledger.

[0115] Although not shown in the diagram, the execution unit of the ledger server 200b may execute processes corresponding to steps S150 and S160. If the execution unit of the ledger server 200b determines "Yes" in each of the processes corresponding to steps S150 and S160, it may execute step S190.

[0116] Next, the execution unit of the ledger server 200b changes the warranty details of the refrigerator 100 to the warranty details set by the owner (S190). The change in warranty details performed by the execution unit of the ledger server 200b includes changing from the second warranty details determined by the second owner before the change to the third warranty details determined by the third owner. For example, the execution unit of the ledger server 200b stores transaction data in the distributed ledger indicating that the warranty details described in the warranty token are changed to the warranty details set by the business operator. By writing the changes to the distributed ledger, it is possible to secure the warranty by the new owner. In this way, information indicating the changed owner and warranty details is managed in the distributed ledger.

[0117] The first warranty may include free replacement of all parts if they fall below the durability standard, the second warranty may include paid replacement of all parts considering the frequency of use of the appliance, and the third warranty may include free replacement of only parts related to specific functions specified by the platform provider.

[0118] Furthermore, the second business model may be one in which the refrigerator 100 is provided through either a subscription contract or a lease contract, and the third business model may be one in which the refrigerator 100 is provided through either a subscription contract or a lease contract. Also, the second business model may be one in which the refrigerator 100 is provided through either a subscription contract or a lease contract, and the third business model may be one in which the refrigerator 100 is provided by selling it as a used item. For example, the period during which the refrigerator 100 is provided in the second business model may be an example of the second warranty period, and the period during which the refrigerator 100 is provided in the third business model may be an example of the third warranty period. The second warranty period and the third warranty period may be consecutive periods that do not overlap chronologically.

[0119] The second warranty details may be entered by the second owner or pre-set by the first business operator. The transaction data may include the modified metadata. The process in step S190 is an example of a process for changing the owner and warranty details.

[0120] Furthermore, the business operator that determines the first guarantee terms may be referred to as the first decision-maker, the business operator that determines the second guarantee terms as the second decision-maker, and the business operator that determines the third guarantee terms as the third decision-maker.

[0121] In this way, the information processing system 10 delegates the authority to change the warranty details to businesses other than the manufacturer of the refrigerator 100, allowing those businesses to change the warranty details of the warranty token. When the business that owns the warranty token changes, the warranty responsibility for the refrigerator 100 also changes. This allows, for example, if the business type for the refrigerator 100 changes, the warranty details can be changed to reflect the changed business type.

[0122] Next, the ledger server 200c, which is the repair company's terminal, confirms the warranty token that has been changed to the third warranty content (S200), and adjusts the inventory of tools, etc., corresponding to the replacement parts necessary to perform the third warranty content (S210). Specifically, the ledger server 200c may adjust the inventory by comparing the number of tools, etc., corresponding to the replacement parts necessary to perform the third warranty content with the inventory held by the repair company, or it may output information to employees indicating that the inventory will be adjusted. If the necessary replacement part is a special screw, the tool corresponding to the necessary replacement part may be a screwdriver.

[0123] Next, the ledger server 200d, which is the parts company terminal, confirms the warranty token that has been changed to the third warranty content (S220), and adjusts the inventory of replacement parts for the refrigerator 100 necessary to perform the third warranty content (S230). Specifically, the ledger server 200d may adjust the inventory by comparing the number of replacement parts necessary to perform the third warranty content with the inventory held by the parts company, or it may output information to employees indicating that the inventory will be adjusted. The replacement parts may be special screws.

[0124] Each ledger server can access guarantee tokens and their change history on the distributed ledger. This means that the supply chain can share information about the new guarantee details of an item (e.g., refrigerator 100) and when those changes occurred. This allows ledger servers 200c and 200d to adjust inventory levels and perform other actions based on the guarantee tokens.

[0125] Furthermore, if the business model changes, the residual value will be determined according to the new business model.

[0126] In this way, the information processing system 10 automatically performs tasks such as determining the remaining value, determining the guarantee period, and changing the token address.

[0127] In Figure 6, an example is shown in which step S150 is executed when the answer to step S120 is No. However, the method is not limited to this example, and the determination of residual value and the determination of warranty period may be performed independently of each other.

[0128] The determinations in steps S150 and S160 may be performed using smart contracts stored in a distributed ledger.

[0129] Furthermore, after step S190, the refrigerator 100 may determine the residual value at predetermined intervals. For example, if the predetermined interval is the time when the business type is changed, the refrigerator 100 will resume determining the residual value in order to determine whether or not to change to the next business type. In this case, the owner of the guarantee token, rather than the refrigerator 100, may determine the residual value.

[0130] Next, we will explain the operation of the information processing system 10 when repairing equipment, which is an example of the warranty coverage, with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the processing (information processing method) related to repair requests executed by the information processing system 10 according to this embodiment.

[0131] As shown in Figure 7, when the ledger server 200a obtains a repair request for the refrigerator 100 (S310), it determines whether or not it has the authority (access rights) to access the repair information for the refrigerator 100 (S320). For example, the ledger server 200a may determine whether or not it has the authority to access the repair information by referring to a table stored in memory.

[0132] Figure 8 is a table showing access permissions to repair information according to this embodiment. Since the repair information may contain sensitive information, access is restricted in advance.

[0133] As shown in Figure 8, the table includes the type of business, the repair request source → destination, and the repair information access.

[0134] The business model refers to the sales model of the equipment and includes subscriptions (shown in Figure 8 as "B2C (Business to Consumer) subscriptions"), leases (shown in Figure 8 as "B2B (Business to Business) leases"), and outright sales of used equipment.

[0135] "Repair Request Origin" indicates the source and recipient of the equipment repair request. In the case of subscriptions and leases, the repair request is made to the finished product company via the platform provider (shown as "Pfer" in Figure 8). In subscriptions, the platform provider is the business that provides the subscription service, and in leases, the platform provider is the business that provides the lease service.

[0136] Repair information access indicates access permission information, for example, that access is permitted from the repair requesting party. In this case, if the repair requesting party is the platform provider and the repair recipient is the finished product company, the finished product company determines whether the platform provider has access rights to the repair information held by the finished product company.

[0137] Referring again to Figure 7, if the ledger server 200a determines that it has access rights (Yes in S320), it views the repair information held by the ledger server 200c to determine the repair details (S330). Specifically, the ledger server 200a accesses the repair information for the refrigerator 100 and obtains the history of past repairs for the refrigerator 100 for which a repair request has been obtained. Here, the repair information held by the ledger server 200c may include publicly available information and information that is kept confidential in connection with personal information. The repair information that the ledger server 200a can view may consist only of publicly available information. The publicly available information may be the design information of the property. The information that is kept confidential in connection with publicly available information and personal information may be information indicating the condition of use, such as the smell on the property.

[0138] Next, after viewing the repair information, or if it determines that the user does not have access rights (No in S320), the ledger server 200a retrieves the repair details and executes a repair request (S340). The repair details may be entered by the user, or they may be determined by the ledger server 200a based on the repair information. When executing a repair request, the ledger server 200a sends the repair request to the ledger server 200c.

[0139] As a result, the repair company will carry out repairs on the refrigerator 100.

[0140] Next, when the repair to the refrigerator 100 is completed, the ledger server 200c retrieves the repair details and writes them to the storage device (S350). This allows the repair history to be used as reference information for future repairs.

[0141] Referring to Figures 9 to 13, we will explain the data structure of distributed ledgers, the execution of smart contracts, and the data structure of NFTs.

[0142] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of a blockchain, which is an example of a distributed ledger.

[0143] A blockchain is a chain of interconnected blocks, which are the units of data. Each block contains multiple transaction data and the hash value of the previous block.

[0144] Figure 9 shows blocks B1, B2, and B3 included in the blockchain.

[0145] For example, block B2 contains the hash value of the preceding block B1. The hash value of block B1 is calculated by performing a hash algorithm operation on the contents of block B1.

[0146] Furthermore, block B3 contains a hash value calculated from multiple transaction data contained in block B2 and the hash value of block B1, which is then included as the hash value of block B2.

[0147] Thus, because blockchain has a structure in which blocks containing the contents of the previous block as a hash value are linked together in a chain, it can effectively prevent tampering with recorded transaction data.

[0148] If past transaction data is altered (in other words, tampered with), the hash value of the block containing that transaction data will be different from the value before the alteration. In that case, to make the block containing the altered transaction data appear correct, all blocks from that block onward in the distributed ledger, which is stored by multiple servers, would have to be rebuilt, and this process is practically extremely difficult. Due to this characteristic, tampering with transaction data contained in a blockchain may be virtually impossible.

[0149] When a node stores transaction data on the blockchain, it generates a block containing the transaction data to be stored and attempts to reach a consensus with other nodes by performing a consensus algorithm-based process on the generated block. The node then controls itself to store the block on the blockchain once a consensus is reached. This allows multiple nodes operating autonomously and decentralized to connect legitimate blocks to the blockchain. As a consensus algorithm, PBFT (Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance), PoW (Proof of Work), or PoS (Proof of Stake) may be used. Note that when using Hyperledger fabric as an example of distributed ledger technology, the consensus algorithm does not need to be executed.

[0150] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of transaction data.

[0151] The transaction data shown in Figure 10 includes a transaction body BP1 and a digital signature BP2 (also simply called a signature). The transaction body BP1 is the data body contained in the transaction data. The digital signature BP2 is generated by encrypting the hash value of the transaction body BP1 with the signing key (in other words, private key) of the creator of the transaction data.

[0152] A node that receives transaction data can use the digital signature BP2 contained in the transaction data to verify that the transaction body BP1 is legitimate (in other words, that it has not been tampered with). This makes it virtually impossible to tamper with the data contained in the transaction body BP1. Furthermore, by storing the verified transaction data on the blockchain, the legitimacy of the transaction data stored on the blockchain can be maintained.

[0153] As described above, transaction data included in a blockchain is stored in the blockchain by linking the hash values ​​of the transaction data and the hash values ​​of the blocks. This ensures that the transaction data included in the blockchain is stored and maintained without being tampered with. This is an advantage that differs from a database or distributed database where a collection of data is simply stored.

[0154] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram showing transaction data related to the execution of a smart contract. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the processing (information processing information) related to the execution of a smart contract.

[0155] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, a series of processes related to the execution of a smart contract using a distributed ledger will be explained.

[0156] In step SB1, the node stores transaction data B11, which includes contract code B12 describing the processing of the smart contract, in the distributed ledger B10. For example, the node obtains transaction data B11 by receiving it via communication from an information processing device or by generating the transaction data B11 itself, and stores the obtained transaction data B11 in the distributed ledger B10. Step SB1 is performed before executing the smart contract.

[0157] In step SB2, the node stores transaction data B15, which includes the instruction B16 to execute the smart contract, in the distributed ledger B10. For example, the node receives transaction data B15 from an information processing device via communication and stores the received transaction data B15 in the distributed ledger B10.

[0158] In step SB3, the node reads the contract code B12 from the distributed ledger B10 in response to the fact that the transaction data B15, including the instruction B16, was stored in the distributed ledger B10 in step SB2, and executes processing based on the contract code B12. The result of the above processing may be included in the transaction data and stored in the distributed ledger B10.

[0159] Through the above series of processes, when the ledger system receives transaction data B15 containing the instruction B16 to execute a smart contract, it automatically (in other words, without manual intervention) executes the process according to instruction B16, enabling highly efficient (in other words, fast or in a short time) processing. This high-efficiency processing has the effect of reducing power consumption. Furthermore, since no manual intervention is involved, it is possible to prevent human error, fraud, or tampering with information. In addition, since the results of the processing executed in this way are stored on the blockchain, it is virtually impossible to tamper with the results of the processing.

[0160] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the structure of an NFT and metadata. An NFT is a token stored on a distributed ledger and is a unique token (in other words, a non-fungible token). NFTs are standardized, for example, as ERC (Ethereum Request for Comments) 721, but are not limited to this, and may conform to different standards or be non-standard (for example, unique to an organization). Note that while ERC 721 is a standard for unique tokens, the NFTs described herein do not necessarily have to be unique tokens.

[0161] Figure 13 shows transaction data B21 stored in the distributed ledger. Transaction data B21 contains NFTs. An NFT includes a token ID (i.e., identification information that can uniquely identify the NFT) and metadata URI (Uniform Resource Identifier).

[0162] An NFT has metadata. The metadata may be located in a location accessible via the network (e.g., storage device B22). The metadata URI, which indicates the location of the metadata, can be calculated using the NFT's token ID and a predetermined base URI.

[0163] Information managed as an NFT may be included in transaction data B21 or in metadata. Including information managed as an NFT in metadata has the advantage of reducing the amount of information that can be included in transaction data B21 (in other words, the information that can be included in the blockchain). In this case, metadata can be said to contain the actual information managed as an NFT. When an image is managed as an NFT, the URL that points to the image data of that image may be managed as an NFT.

[0164] (Other Embodiments) Although information processing methods, etc., relating to one or more embodiments have been described above based on embodiments, this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Without departing from the spirit of this disclosure, various modifications that a person skilled in the art could conceive of may be applied to these embodiments, and forms constructed by combining components from different embodiments may also be included in this disclosure.

[0165] For example, in the above embodiment, the refrigerator 100 determined the remaining value, but the system is not limited to this, and any ledger server of the ledger system may determine the remaining value of the refrigerator 100. For example, ledger server 200a (i.e., the finished product company terminal) may determine the remaining value of the refrigerator 100, or ledger server 200b (i.e., the platformer terminal) may determine the remaining value of the refrigerator 100. For example, if information on the usage history of the refrigerator 100 is collected on the finished product company's server, the ledger server of the ledger system may use this usage history information to determine the remaining value of the refrigerator 100.

[0166] Furthermore, while blockchain was used in the above embodiment, it is not necessary to use blockchain. In addition, distributed ledger technologies other than blockchain, such as hash graphs, may be used.

[0167] Furthermore, each device in the above embodiment is specifically a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, hard disk unit, display unit, keyboard, mouse, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM or hard disk unit. Each device achieves its function by operating according to the computer program through the microprocessor. Here, the computer program is composed of a combination of multiple instruction codes that indicate instructions to the computer in order to achieve a predetermined function.

[0168] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, some or all of the constituent components of each device may be made up of a single LSI (Large Scale Integration). A system LSI is a highly functional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple components onto a single chip, and specifically, it is a computer system that includes a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM. The system LSI achieves its function by the microprocessor operating according to the computer program. In addition, each component constituting each of the above devices may be individually integrated into a single chip, or some or all of them may be integrated into a single chip. Here, we have used the term system LSI, but depending on the degree of integration, they may also be called IC, LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI.

[0169] Furthermore, this disclosure may also be the method described above. Alternatively, it may be a computer program that implements these methods using a computer, or a digital signal consisting of a computer program. For example, one aspect of this disclosure may be a computer program that causes a computer to execute each characteristic step included in the information processing method shown in any of Figures 4, 6, 7, and 12.

[0170] Furthermore, this disclosure may also refer to a computer program or digital signal recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a flexible disk, hard disk, CD-ROM, MO, DVD, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, BD (Blu-ray® Disc), semiconductor memory, etc. Alternatively, it may refer to a digital signal recorded on such a recording medium. Furthermore, this disclosure may also refer to a computer program or digital signal transmitted via telecommunications lines, wireless or wired communication lines, networks such as the Internet, data broadcasting, etc.

[0171] Furthermore, this disclosure may also describe a computer system comprising a microprocessor and memory, wherein the memory stores the computer program, and the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer program.

[0172] Alternatively, the program or digital signal may be implemented by another independent computer system by recording and transferring it on a recording medium, or by transferring the program or digital signal via a network or the like.

[0173] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, each component may be implemented by being composed of dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0174] Furthermore, the order in which each step in the flowchart is performed is illustrative for the purpose of specifically illustrating this disclosure, and may be in a different order. Also, some of the above steps may be performed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps, and some of the above steps may not be performed.

[0175] Furthermore, the division of functional blocks in the block diagram is just one example; multiple functional blocks can be implemented as a single functional block, a single functional block can be divided into multiple parts, or some functions can be moved to other functional blocks. In addition, the functions of multiple functional blocks with similar functions can be processed in parallel or time-sharing by a single piece of hardware or software.

[0176] Furthermore, each of the ledger servers according to the above embodiment may be implemented as a single device or as a group of devices. When the ledger server is implemented as a group of devices, the components of the ledger server may be distributed among the group of devices in any way. When the ledger server is implemented as a group of devices, the method of communication between the group of devices is not particularly limited and may be wireless communication or wired communication. In addition, wireless communication and wired communication may be combined between the devices.

[0177] This disclosure is useful for information processing devices, etc., that manage distributed ledgers.

[0178] 10 Information Processing System 100 Refrigerator (device) 110, 211 Communication Unit 120 Determination Unit 130 Transaction Data Generation Unit 140, 215 Control Unit 150, 214 Storage Unit 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d Ledger Server 201a, 201b, 201c, 201d Storage Device 212 Ledger Management Unit 213 Execution Unit (First Processing Unit, Second Processing Unit) 214a, B10 Distributed Ledger 300 Communication Network B1, B2, B3 Block B11, B15, B21 Transaction Data B12 Contract Code B16 Instruction B22 Storage Device BP1 Transaction Body BP2 Digital Signature

Claims

1. An information processing method executed by a server of a ledger system equipped with a distributed ledger, comprising: issuing an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) containing information relating to a first guarantee content indicating the guarantee content of an item, a first guarantee period indicating the guarantee period of the first guarantee content, and a first decision-maker indicating the decision-maker of the first guarantee content; determining the residual value of the item; executing a process to change the first guarantee period to a second guarantee period, the first guarantee content to a second guarantee content, and the first decision-maker to a second decision-maker according to the residual value; and managing the changed guarantee period, the guarantee content, and the decision-maker information in the distributed ledger.

2. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the first warranty period is the period during which the goods are provided in a first business manner, and the second warranty period is the period during which the goods are provided in a second business manner different from the first business manner.

3. The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein the first business type is a business type that provides the property by either a subscription contract or a lease contract, and the second business type is a business type that provides the property by the other of the subscription contract or the lease contract.

4. The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein the first business type is a business type that provides the property through a subscription contract or lease contract, and the second business type is a business type that provides the property by selling the property as a used item.

5. The information processing method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the change in the warranty content is a change from the first warranty content corresponding to the first business type to the second warranty content corresponding to the second business type.

6. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the determination of the remaining value is performed based on the operational information of the property.

7. The determination of the remaining value is performed by the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the NFT includes information relating to a warranty period set for the property, and the information processing method performs a process to change the decision-maker and the warranty content if the warranty period has not elapsed.

9. An information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which obtains a repair request for the property, determines whether or not it has the authority to access the repair information for the property, and if it is determined that it has the authority, performs the action of accessing the repair information for the property.

10. An information processing device executed by a server of a ledger system equipped with a distributed ledger, comprising: a first processing unit that issues an NFT including information relating to a first guarantee content indicating the guarantee content of an item, a first guarantee period indicating the guarantee period of the first guarantee content, and a first decision-maker indicating the decision-maker of the first guarantee content; and a second processing unit that executes processing to change the first guarantee period to a second guarantee period, the first guarantee content to a second guarantee content, and the first decision-maker to a second decision-maker according to the remaining value of the item, wherein the changed guarantee period, the guarantee content, and the information relating to the decision-maker are managed in the distributed ledger.

11. A program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

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