JP7525925B2 - Product exchange system and product exchange method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a product exchange system and a product exchange method for exchanging prizes exchanged at game arcades for products.

Traditionally, gaming establishments have installed many gaming machines and lend gaming media to players. Players then pay cash to the gaming establishment to borrow gaming media and play on the gaming machines, and the gaming establishment exchanges the gaming media that the player has acquired for merchandise. In this way, players can exchange the gaming media for the merchandise they desire.

In addition, depending on the number of gaming media acquired through play, players may be able to select products from a catalog and exchange them for the selected products. In addition to the above-mentioned products, gaming establishments may also be able to exchange them for prizes that have asset value.

However, when a player exchanges the gaming medium he or she has acquired for a product, there is a risk that the player may not be able to exchange it for the product he or she desires, depending on the product lineup available at the gaming establishment.

In response to this, a management system has been disclosed in which game media acquired by a player is exchanged for points, and these points are accumulated in an account (for example, Patent Document 1). With this type of management system, accumulated points can be withdrawn and exchanged for merchandise at a store outside the gaming facility in response to a transaction request from the player, so the player can exchange them for the merchandise he or she desires.

JP 2004-318535 A

However, the management system described above does not allow points to be exchanged for products outside the amusement facility unless they are exchanged for points at the amusement facility. Here, the staff at the amusement facility have a variety of tasks to perform, such as restoring gaming machines that are in an error state, counting the gaming media acquired by players, and exchanging them for products. For this reason, if the tasks of exchanging points for gaming media increase, there is a problem in that the staff at the amusement facility will become very busy.

In addition, there is a risk that the desired product may not be available even if points are exchanged at the gaming establishment, in which case the exchanged points will go to waste.

In view of these problems, the present invention aims to provide a product exchange system and a product exchange method that allows game parlor staff to exchange items for products outside the game parlor without having to keep them busy.

In order to solve such problems, the product exchange system of the present invention includes an amusement store that exchanges gaming media acquired by playing a gaming machine for prizes, an exchange office that uses a point exchange device to exchange the prizes exchanged by the amusement store for points that can be exchanged for products other than the prizes, a point management server capable of executing a process to store information about the points, a wholesaler that purchases the prizes from the exchange office and wholesales the purchased prizes to the amusement store, a point association that manages the point management server and exchanges the points exchanged by the exchange office for the products, and a mobile phone on which an application is installed that can execute a process to use the points exchanged by the point exchange device. and a terminal, wherein the point exchange device is capable of executing a reading process for reading the prize and a point exchange process for exchanging the points based on the value of the prize read by the reading process, and the point exchange device or a mobile terminal on which the application is installed is capable of executing the product exchange process for exchanging the points for the product by having the point management server execute a process for storing information for subtracting the points based on the product to be exchanged for the points , provided that member information is registered, and the point association ships the product to the member based on the execution of the product exchange process .

In addition, in the product exchange system according to the present invention, the wholesaler purchases the points from the point association and wholesales the purchased points to the exchange.

In addition, in the product exchange system according to the present invention, the exchange makes a deposit with the wholesaler, and the wholesaler issues the points to the exchange within the amount of the deposit made by the exchange.

Furthermore, a product exchange method according to the present invention includes the steps of exchanging game media acquired by playing a gaming machine for prizes, causing a point exchange device to execute a reading process to read the prizes, causing the point exchange device to execute a point exchange process to exchange points based on the value of the prizes read by the reading process, installing an application capable of executing a process for applying the points exchanged by the point exchange device into a mobile terminal, causing a point management server managed by a point association and capable of executing a process for storing information on the points to execute a product exchange process for exchanging the points exchanged by the point exchange device for the product, provided that member information is registered in the point exchange device or in the mobile terminal on which the application capable of executing the process for applying the points exchanged by the point exchange device is installed, thereby executing a product exchange process for exchanging the points exchanged by the point exchange device for the product , and a step in which the point association ships the product to the member based on the execution of the product exchange process .

The present invention provides a product exchange system and a product exchange method that allows game store staff to exchange items for products outside the game store without being too busy.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an overview of a product exchange system. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of each system constituting the product exchange system. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an external perspective view of a point exchange device. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a rear perspective view of a point exchange device. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a block diagram of a point exchange device in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a prize. 4 is a diagram showing an example of member information stored in a member management DB; FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of purchasing information stored in a purchasing management DB. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of product information stored in a product management DB; FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of point information stored in a point management DB. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a main process in the point exchange device. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process performed during a point exchange operation. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process performed during a point confirmation operation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a product exchange operation process. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a process performed during a product confirmation operation. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a member registration operation process. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a process performed when a member information updating operation is performed. FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a main process in a member management server. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a main process in a purchase management server. FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a main process in a product management server. A diagram showing an example of a main process in the point management server. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation that is displayed when exchanging points. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation at the time of cancellation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when confirming a point. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when exchanging products. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation that occurs when a category operation is performed. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation that occurs during a sorting operation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when checking a product. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation displayed when registering as a member. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when member information is updated. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the transition of processing at the time of a point exchange operation and processing at the time of a point confirmation operation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a transition of a process at the time of a product exchange operation and a process at the time of a product confirmation operation. FIG. 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the transition of processing during a member registration operation and processing during a member information update operation. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of each system constituting a product exchange system in a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a main process in the point exchange device in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a main process in the mobile terminal. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process at the time of a point confirmation operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a product exchange operation process in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a process at the time of a product confirmation operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a member registration operation process in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a member information update operation process in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a process performed when a two-dimensional code is operated in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a point addition operation process in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when checking a point in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when a product is exchanged in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when checking a product in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation at the time of member registration in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when updating member information in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when a two-dimensional code is displayed in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when points are added in the second embodiment. 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of transitions between a point exchange operation process, a point addition operation process, and a point confirmation operation process in the second embodiment. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a transition of a product exchange operation process and a product confirmation operation process in the second embodiment. FIG. 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the transition of processing during a member registration operation, processing during a member information update operation, and processing during a two-dimensional code operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an overview of a product exchange system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of another aspect of the overview of the product exchange system in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of each system constituting a product exchange system in a third embodiment. A figure showing an example of deposit information stored by a deposit management DB in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a process during a point exchange operation in the third embodiment. A diagram showing an example of a main process in the deposit server in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when points cannot be exchanged in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a transition of processing during a point exchange operation in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a point addition process in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when exchanging points in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of each system constituting a product exchange system in a fifth embodiment. A figure showing an example of amusement store member information stored by an amusement store member management DB in the fifth embodiment. A figure showing an example of main processing in an amusement store member management server in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a transition of processing during a point addition operation in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of each system constituting a product exchange system in a sixth embodiment. A figure showing an example of wholesaler management information stored by a wholesaler management DB in the sixth embodiment. FIG. 13 shows an animation displaying the remaining amount of a deposit in a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of the animation displayed when registering as a member. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of the animation when updating member information. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when a limited-time product is exchanged in a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation when exchanging a limited quantity product in a modified example. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation that displays that only a few products are left in a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation showing point exchange for each prize in a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a first modified example of the point exchange device. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the point exchange device. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a third modified example of the point exchange device. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fourth modified example of the point exchange device. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an animation that is displayed when exchanging points in a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an overview of a product exchange system in a modified example.

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment
First, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 33. FIG.

(Overview of the product exchange system)
First, an overview of a product exchange system according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

First, we will explain the gaming facility, players, shops, wholesalers, and points association shown in Figure 1.

Here, an "amusement store" refers to a store that has gaming machines (e.g., pachinko and slot machines) and lends gaming media (e.g., gaming balls and gaming medals) to players.

Additionally, "player" refers to a person who plays games at an amusement establishment.

A "shop" refers to a store where points are exchanged for prizes owned by players (specifically, prizes 50, which will be described in detail later using FIG. 6) using the point exchange device 1, which will be described later.

"Wholesaler" refers to a business that purchases prizes 50 from shops and wholesales them to gaming establishments.

In addition, a "point association" refers to a business that issues points to wholesalers and handles products.

Next, we will explain the relationships between gaming facilities, players, shops, wholesalers, and points associations shown in Figure 1.

(Players and Gaming Stores)
A player plays a game on a gaming machine installed in a gaming establishment. Specifically, the player first borrows a gaming medium by paying cash to the gaming establishment. The player then uses the gaming medium to play a game on the gaming machine installed in the gaming establishment. Meanwhile, the gaming establishment exchanges the player's gaming medium for a prize 50. Specifically, the gaming establishment counts the player's gaming medium using a gaming medium counting device, and issues the player a receipt on which information related to the counting result is recorded. The gaming establishment then exchanges the receipt issued to the player for the prize 50 corresponding to the receipt.

(Players and Shops)
The shop exchanges the prize 50 that the player has exchanged at the game store for points. Specifically, the player hands over the prize 50 that the player has exchanged at the game store to the shop. In response, the shop gives points equivalent to the prize 50 that the player has handed over.

(Points Association and Players)
The point association exchanges the player's points for merchandise. Specifically, the player selects a merchandise within the range of the points given to him/her and transfers the points corresponding to the selected merchandise to the point association. The point association then transfers the merchandise selected by the player to the player.

(Shops and wholesalers)
The wholesaler purchases the prize 50 from the shop. Specifically, the shop passes the prize 50 exchanged for the points to the wholesaler. The wholesaler then pays the shop cash equivalent to the prize 50 given by the shop.

In addition, the wholesaler sells points to the shop. Specifically, the shop pays the wholesaler cash. The wholesaler then issues points to the shop that correspond to the cash.

The wholesaler may exchange the shop's prize 50 for points. Specifically, the shop hands over the prize 50 exchanged for points to the wholesaler. The wholesaler then issues points equivalent to the prize 50 given by the shop.

(Wholesalers and gaming stores)
The wholesaler wholesales the prizes 50 to the gaming establishment. Specifically, the gaming establishment pays cash to the wholesaler. Then, the wholesaler delivers the prizes 50 corresponding to the paid cash to the gaming establishment.

(Wholesalers and Points Association)
A wholesaler purchases points from a point association. Specifically, the wholesaler pays cash to the point association. In response, the point association issues points to the wholesaler that correspond to the cash paid.

(Each system that constitutes the product exchange system)
Next, each system constituting the product exchange system will be described with reference to FIG.

The product exchange system in the first embodiment is composed of a points exchange device 1, a mobile terminal P, a member management system 100, a purchase management system 200, a product management system 300, and a points management system 400. Therefore, the points exchange device 1, the mobile terminal P, and each system will be described below.

(Points exchange device 1)
The point exchange device 1 is a device for exchanging points for prizes 50, and is installed in a shop. The point exchange device 1 is also set up so as to be able to communicate with a member management server 101, a purchase management server 201, a product management server 301, and a point management server 401. The point exchange device 1 will be described in detail later with reference to Figs. 3 and 4.

(Mobile terminal P)
The mobile terminal P has a function capable of reading two-dimensional codes. The mobile terminal P is also provided so as to be able to communicate with the member management server 101 and the point management server 401.

(Member Management System 100)
Member management system 100 is made up of member management server 101 and member management DB 102, and is a system for managing member information.

(Member management server 101)
Member management server 101 is provided to be able to communicate with point exchange device 1 and mobile terminal P, and is provided to perform a process of storing member information in member management DB 102. Member management server 101 is managed by the point association.

(Member management DB 102)
The member management DB 102 is provided to store member information. The member management DB 102 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

(Purchase Management System 200)
The purchase management system 200 is composed of a purchase management server 201 and a purchase management DB 202, and is a system for managing information regarding products exchanged by players.

(Purchase management server 201)
The purchase management server 201 is provided so as to be able to communicate with the point exchange device 1, and is provided to perform a process of storing purchase information in the purchase management DB 202. The purchase management server 201 is managed by the point association.

(Purchase management DB202)
The purchasing management DB 202 is provided to store purchasing information. The purchasing management DB 202 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

(Product Management System 300)
The product management system 300 is made up of a product management server 301 and a product management DB 302, and is a system for managing information regarding products that can be exchanged by players.

(Product management server 301)
The product management server 301 is provided so as to be able to communicate with the point exchange device 1, and is provided to perform a process of storing product information in the product management DB 302. The product management server 301 is managed by the point association.

(Product management DB302)
The product management DB 302 is provided to store product information. The product management DB 302 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

(Point Management System 400)
The point management system 400 is made up of a point management server 401 and a point management DB 402, and is a system for managing information relating to points.

(Point management server 401)
The point management server 401 is provided to be capable of communicating with the point exchange device 1 and the mobile terminal P, and is provided to perform a process of storing point information in the point management DB 402. The point management server 401 is managed by the point association.

(Point Management DB 402)
The point management DB 402 is provided to store point information. The point management DB 402 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

(Details of point exchange device 1)
Next, the details of the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 3 and FIG.

(Liquid crystal display device 2)
The liquid crystal display device 2 is provided in the center of the point exchange device 1 to display various information. The liquid crystal display device 2 also includes a touch panel sensor 2a.

(Prize Drop-in Section 3)
The prize insertion section 3 is provided on the right side of the liquid crystal display device 2 when viewed from the front, and is provided for inserting the prize 50 when exchanging the prize 50 for points. Here, the prize insertion section 3 allows insertion of a first prize 51, a second prize 52, and a third prize 53, which will be described later.

(Prize Return Section 4)
The prize return section 4 is provided below the prize insertion section 3, and is provided to return the prizes 50 inserted into the prize insertion section 3. Here, the prize return section 4 is capable of returning a first prize 51, a second prize 52, and a third prize 53, which are described below, inserted into the prize insertion section 3.

(Camera 5)
The camera 5 is provided above the liquid crystal display device 2, and is provided to photograph a player using the point exchange device 1. Here, the camera 5 is provided to photograph the person who inserted the counterfeit prize 50 when the prize 50 inserted into the prize insertion section 3 is determined to be a counterfeit prize.

(Speaker 6)
The speaker 6 is provided to output audio information on how to use the point exchange device 1 when using the point exchange device 1. Here, the speaker 6 is composed of a right speaker 6a provided on the right side of the camera 5 when viewed from the front, and a left speaker 6b provided on the left side of the camera 5 when viewed from the front.

(Paper outlet 7)
The paper discharge outlet 7 is provided toward the front of the base part of the point exchange device 1, and is provided for discharging the printed paper (receipt) when the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is printed.

(Two-dimensional code reading unit 8)
The two-dimensional code reader 8 is provided on a base provided below the liquid crystal display device 2 , and is provided for reading the two-dimensional code of the user of the point exchange device 1 .

(Prize removal section 9)
The prize removal section 9 is provided on the rear side of the point exchange device 1, and is provided for removing the prizes 50 exchanged for points. The prize removal section 9 is composed of a door section 9a and a key section 9b. Here, inside the point exchange device 1, there are provided a box for storing a first prize 51 described below, a box for storing a second prize 52 described below, and a box for storing a third prize 53 described below, and the first prize 51 described below, the second prize 52 described below, and the third prize 53 described below are stored separately.

In addition, a box for storing the first prize 51 described below, a box for storing the second prize 52 described below, and a box for storing the third prize 53 described below may be provided outside the point exchange device 1, and the prizes 50 exchanged for points may be brought into each box.

(Block diagram of point exchange device 1)
Next, a block diagram of the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

The point exchange device 1 has a control board 10 that controls the main operation of the point exchange device 1, and is connected to the liquid crystal display device 2, touch panel sensor 2a, camera 5, right speaker 6a, left speaker 6b, two-dimensional code reading unit 8, prize reading unit 15, printing unit 16, communication unit 17, and power supply unit 18.

(Control Board 10)
The control board 10 is provided inside the point exchange device 1, and is provided to control the point exchange device 1. The control board 10 further includes a CPU 11, a ROM 12, and a RAM 13.

(CPU 11)
The CPU 11 is provided on the control board 10 and reads the program stored in the ROM 12 and performs predetermined arithmetic processing, thereby transmitting predetermined signals to the liquid crystal display device 2, the right speaker 6a, the left speaker 6b, the two-dimensional code reading unit 8, the prize reading unit 15, the printing unit 16, the communication unit 17, and the power supply unit 18.

(ROM12)
The ROM 12 is provided on the control board 10, and is provided to store the control program executed by the CPU 11, data tables, data for transmitting various commands, etc. For example, the ROM 12 stores an exchange device ID capable of identifying the point exchange device 1.

(RAM 13)
The RAM 13 is provided on the control board 10. The RAM 13 is provided to store various data determined by the execution of the program by the CPU 11. Specifically, the RAM 13 is provided with various counters and various storage areas.

(I/O port 14)
The I/O port 14 is provided for transmitting signals between the control board 10 and peripheral devices.

(Prize reading unit 15)
The prize reading unit 15 is provided to read the prize 50 inserted into the prize insertion unit 3. Specifically, the prize reading unit 15 is provided to identify a first prize 51, a second prize 52, and a third prize 53, which will be described later, and to determine the authenticity of the prize 50 inserted into the prize insertion unit 3.

(Printing unit 16)
The printing unit 16 is provided to print the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Specifically, the printing unit 16 prints the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 onto paper (receipt) (not shown), and ejects the paper from the paper ejection port 7.

(Communication unit 17)
The communication unit 17 is provided for communicating with the member management server 101 , the purchase management server 201 , the product management server 301 , and the point management server 401 .

(Power supply unit 18)
The power supply unit 18 is provided inside the point exchange device 1 and is provided to supply power to the point exchange device 1. The power supply unit 18 is also composed of a power supply board (not shown) for controlling the supply of power to the point exchange device 1, a power button (not shown) for operating the supply of power to the point exchange device 1, and a power switch (not shown) for detecting the operation of the power button.

(External view of prize 50)
Next, the appearance of the prize 50 will be described with reference to FIG.

The prizes 50 are a first prize 51, a second prize 52, and a third prize 53. Note that when "prize 50" is written, it means a general term for the first prize 51, the second prize 52, and the third prize 53, or it means any one of the first prize 51, the second prize 52, and the third prize 53.

(First prize 51)
The first prize 51 is a prize having a higher value than the second prize 52 and the third prize 53. Here, the first prize 51 is provided with a first prize chip 51a.

(First prize chip 51a)
The first prize chip 51a is a chip for storing information related to the first prize 51. Here, the first prize chip 51a stores value information related to the value of the first prize 51, shop information of the shop that handles the first prize 51, and first prize security information used when performing the authenticity determination process in step S6-4 described later.

(Second Prize 52)
The second prize 52 is a prize having a higher value than the third prize 53 and a lower value than the first prize 51. Here, the second prize 52 is provided with a second prize chip 52a.

(Second prize chip 52a)
The second prize chip 52a is a chip for storing information related to the second prize 52. Here, the second prize chip 52a stores value information related to the value of the second prize 52, shop information of the shop that handles the second prize 52, and second prize security information used when performing the authenticity determination process in step S6-4 described later.

(Third Prize 53)
The third prize 53 is a prize having a lower value than the first prize 51 and the second prize 52. Here, the third prize 53 is provided with a third prize chip 53a.

(Third prize chip 53a)
The third prize chip 53a is a chip for storing information related to the third prize 53. Here, the third prize chip 53a stores value information related to the value of the third prize 53, shop information of the shop that handles the third prize 53, and third prize security information used when performing the authenticity determination process in step S6-4 described later.

(Member information stored in member management DB 102)
Next, the member information stored in the member management DB 102 will be described with reference to FIG.

The member management DB 102 includes a member ID storage area 102a for storing a member ID, a name storage area 102b for storing a member's name, an address storage area 102c for storing a member's address, a terminal identification information storage area 102d for storing a member's terminal identification information, a telephone number storage area 102e for storing a member's telephone number, an email address storage area 102f for storing a member's email address, a password storage area 102g for storing a member's password, an age storage area 102h for storing a member's age, and a gender storage area 102i for storing a member's gender, and each data is linked.

For example, the following data are stored in association with each other: "00000001" in member ID storage area 102a, "Tanaka Ichiro" stored in name storage area 102b, "YY1-2, XX ward, Tokyo" stored in address storage area 102c, "0123456789" stored in terminal identification information storage area 102d, "03-XXXX-XXXX" stored in telephone number storage area 102e, "abc@XXXX.com" stored in email address storage area 102f, "2525" stored in password storage area 102g, "36" stored in age storage area 102h, and "male" stored in gender storage area 102i.

In this embodiment, the age storage area 102h stores the age of the member, but the age storage area 102h may store information indicating that the member is 18 years old or older. This can eliminate the need to enter the member's age when registering as a member.

(Purchase information stored in purchase management DB 202)
Next, the purchase information stored in the purchase management DB 202 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Note that "purchase" refers to the exchange of points for a product.

The purchasing management DB 202 includes a purchasing ID memory area 202a for storing a purchasing ID, a purchasing date memory area 202b for storing the date of purchase of the product, an exchange device ID memory area 202c for storing the ID of the point exchange device 1 on which the purchase process was performed, a purchaser memory area 202d for storing the name of the member who made the purchase, a purchased product memory area 202e for storing information related to the purchased product, a scheduled shipping date memory area 202f for storing the scheduled shipping date of the purchased product, a shipping destination memory area 202g for storing information related to the shipping destination of the purchased product, and a purchasing member phone number memory area 202h for storing information related to the phone number of the purchasing member, and each data is linked.

For example, the following data are stored in association with each other: "00000001" in the purchase ID storage area 202a, "2018/01/01" stored in the purchase date storage area 202b, "00000001" stored in the exchange device ID storage area 202c, "Tanaka Ichiro" stored in the purchaser storage area 202d, "Product A" stored in the purchased product storage area 202e, "2018/01/02" stored in the scheduled shipping date storage area 202f, "△△1-2, XX-ku, Tokyo" stored in the shipping destination storage area 202g, and "03-XXXX-XXXX" stored in the purchasing member phone number storage area 202h.

When the purchasing management server 201 delivers the point exchange device 1 to a shop, it stores the ID of the point exchange device 1 in association with information related to the shop to which it is delivered. This makes it possible to identify the shop based on the ID of the point exchange device 1 where the purchasing process was performed, which is stored in the exchange device ID storage area 202c. Note that the purchasing management DB 202 may be provided with a shop storage area for the purchasing management DB that stores information related to the shop.

(Product information stored in product management DB 302)
Next, the product information stored in the product management DB 302 will be described with reference to FIG.

The product management DB 302 includes a product ID storage area 302a for storing product IDs, a product name storage area 302b for storing product names, a product description storage area 302c for storing product description information and information on expected delivery dates, a category storage area 302d for storing category-related information, an image data storage area 302e for storing product image data, an inventory quantity storage area 302f for storing the number of products in stock, a required points storage area 302g for storing information on points required to exchange for products, a best-before-expiration storage area 302h for storing information on the product's best-before-expiration date, a purchase price storage area 302i for storing information on the purchase price of the product, and a supplier storage area 302j for storing the product's supplier, and each data is linked.

For example, the following data are linked and stored: "00000001" in the product ID storage area 302a, "Product A" stored in the product name storage area 302b, "......" stored in the product description storage area 302c, "Food" stored in the category storage area 302d, "A.jpg" stored in the image data storage area 302e, "250" stored in the inventory quantity storage area 302f, "500" stored in the required points storage area 302g, "2018/11/01" stored in the expiration date storage area 302h, "450" stored in the purchase price storage area 302i, and "A Foods Co., Ltd." stored in the supplier storage area 302j.

(Point information stored by point management DB 402)
Next, the point information stored in the point management DB 402 will be described with reference to FIG.

The point management DB 402 includes a point ID storage area 402a for storing point IDs, an update date and time storage area 402b for storing information related to update dates and times, a shop storage area 402c for storing information related to the shop whose point information has been updated, a point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d for storing the ID of the point exchange device 1 whose point information has been updated, a point management DB member ID storage area 402e for storing information related to the member ID stored in the member ID storage area 102a of the member management DB 102, a member name storage area 402f for storing information related to the name of the member whose points are to be updated, an update point storage area 402g for storing information related to the value of the points to be updated, an expiration date storage area 402h for storing information related to the expiration date of the points added by the update, and a security code storage area 402i for storing information related to the security code, and each data is linked.

Here, the information stored in the point management DB 402 is updated when the point exchange device 1 performs a process of exchanging points for prizes, when the mobile terminal P performs a process of exchanging points for products, and when the point exchange device 1 performs a process of exchanging points for products.

For example, when the point exchange device 1 performs a process of exchanging prize 50 for points, data in the row with the value "00000001" in the point ID storage area 402a is stored. Then, when the mobile terminal P performs a process of exchanging for points, data in the row with the value "00000002" in the point ID storage area 402a is stored. Then, when the process of exchanging points for a product is performed, data in the row with the value "00000200" in the point ID storage area 402a is stored.

When the expiration date is reached, the information in the row with the point ID "00000002" in the point management DB 402 will be deleted. At this time, the information in the row with the related point ID "00000001" may also be deleted.

In addition, the information in the row with the related point ID "00000001" may be deleted when the information in the row with the related point ID "00000002" is stored.

(When the point exchange device 1 performs a process of exchanging the prize 50 for the points)
When the process of exchanging points for prizes 50 is performed by the point exchange device 1, various information is stored in the point ID memory area 402a, the update date and time memory area 402b, the shop memory area 402c, the exchange device ID memory area 402d for the point management DB, the updated point memory area 402g, and the security code memory area 402i.

For example, as shown in the row "00000001" in the point ID storage area 402a, the data "2018/01/01/11:10" in the update date and time storage area 402b, the data "Store A" in the shop storage area 402c, the data "00000001" in the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the data "10,000" in the update point storage area 402g, and the data "********" in the security code storage area 402i are each linked and stored.

When the point exchange device 1 performs the process of exchanging points for prizes 50, no information is stored in the member ID storage area 402e, member name storage area 402f, and expiration date storage area 402h for the point management DB.

(When the process of exchanging for points is performed by the mobile device P)
When the process of exchanging for points is performed by the mobile terminal P, various information is stored in the point ID memory area 402a, the update date and time memory area 402b, the shop memory area 402c, the exchange device ID memory area 402d for the point management DB, the member ID memory area 402e for the point management DB, the member name memory area 402f, the updated point memory area 402g, and the expiration date memory area 402h.

For example, as shown in the row "00000002" in the point ID storage area 402a, the data "2018/01/01/11:11" in the update date and time storage area 402b, the data "Store A" in the shop storage area 402c, the data "00000001" in the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the data "00000001" in the point management DB member ID storage area 402e, the data "Tanaka Ichiro" in the member name storage area 402f, the data "10,000" in the updated point storage area 402g, and the data "2018/03/31" in the expiration date storage area 402h are linked and stored.

When the process of exchanging points for a prize is performed by the mobile device P, no information is stored in the security code memory area 402i.

(When the point exchange device 1 performs a process of exchanging points for a product)
When the process of exchanging points for goods is performed by the point exchange device 1, various information is stored in the point ID memory area 402a, the update date and time memory area 402b, the shop memory area 402c, the exchange device ID memory area 402d for the point management DB, the member ID memory area 402e for the point management DB, the member name memory area 402f, and the updated point memory area 402g.

For example, as shown in the row "00000200" in the point ID storage area 402a, the data "2018/02/01/20:47" in the update date and time storage area 402b, the data "Store A" in the shop storage area 402c, the data "00000001" in the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the data "00000001" in the point management DB member ID storage area 402e, the data "Tanaka Ichiro" in the member name storage area 402f, and the data "-5,000" in the updated point storage area 402g are each linked and stored.

When the point exchange device 1 performs a process to exchange points for a product, no information is stored in the expiration date storage area 402h or the security code storage area 402i.

(Main Processing in Point Exchange Device 1)
Next, the main processing in the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1)
In step S1, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the power is turned on. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the power is turned on by the power supply unit 18. If it is determined that the power is turned on (step S1=YES), the process proceeds to step S2. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power is not turned on (step S1=NO), the process proceeds to step S3.

(Step S2)
In step S2, the CPU 11 performs a top menu display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a top menu image on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S2 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S3)
In step S3, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the device is booting up. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the power supply unit 18 has turned on the power supply. If it is determined that the device is booting up (step S3=YES), the process proceeds to step S4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the device is not booting up (step S3=NO), the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S4)
In step S4, the CPU 11 performs a top menu display process. Specifically, similar to step S2, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a top menu image on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S4 ends, the process proceeds to step S5.

(Step S5)
In step S5, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "point exchange" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "point exchange" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "point exchange" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "point exchange" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is judged that the "point exchange" operation has been performed (step S5=YES), the process proceeds to step S6. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "point exchange" operation has not been performed (step S5=NO), the process proceeds to step S7.

(Step S6)
In step S6, the CPU 11 performs a process for a point exchange operation, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 12. In this process, the CPU 11 performs a process for exchanging the prize 50 for points. Then, when the process of step S4 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S7)
In step S7, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "point check" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "point check" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "point check" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "point check" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is judged that the "point check" operation has been performed (step S7=YES), the process proceeds to step S8. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "point check" operation has not been performed (step S7=NO), the process proceeds to step S9.

(Step S8)
In step S8, the CPU 11 performs a point confirmation operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 13. In this process, the CPU 11 performs a process for displaying the currently owned points on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S8 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S9)
In step S9, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a "product exchange" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "product exchange" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "product exchange" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "product exchange" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is determined that the "product exchange" operation has been performed (step S9=YES), the process proceeds to step S10. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "product exchange" operation has not been performed (step S9=NO), the process proceeds to step S11.

(Step S10)
In step S10, the CPU 11 performs a product exchange operation process, which will be described later in detail with reference to Fig. 14. In this process, the CPU 11 performs a process for exchanging points for a product. Then, when the process of step S10 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S11)
In step S11, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not an operation for "product check" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "product check" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "product check" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "product check" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is judged that the operation for "product check" has been performed (step S11=YES), the process proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, when it is judged that the operation for "product check" has not been performed (step S11=NO), the process proceeds to step S13.

(Step S12)
In step S12, the CPU 11 performs a product confirmation operation process, which will be described later in detail with reference to Fig. 15. In this process, the CPU 11 performs a process for displaying products that can be exchanged for points. Then, when the process of step S12 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S13)
In step S13, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a "member registration" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "member registration" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "member registration" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "member registration" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is determined that the "member registration" operation has been performed (step S13=YES), the process proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "member registration" operation has not been performed (step S13=NO), the process proceeds to step S15.

(Step S14)
In step S14, the CPU 11 performs a member registration operation process, which will be described later in detail with reference to Fig. 16. In this process, the CPU 11 performs processes necessary for member registration. Then, when the process of step S14 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S15)
In step S15, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation for "member information update" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "member information update" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "member information update" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "member information update" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is determined that an operation for "member information update" has been performed (step S15=YES), the process proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, when it is determined that an operation for "member information update" has not been performed (step S15=NO), the process proceeds to step S17.

(Step S16)
In step S16, the CPU 11 performs a member information update operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 17. In this process, the CPU 11 performs a process of updating the registered member information. Then, when the process of step S16 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S17)
In step S17, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a "language" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "language" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "language" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "language" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is determined that the "language" operation has been performed (step S17=YES), the process proceeds to step S18. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "language" operation has not been performed (step S17=NO), the process proceeds to step S19.

(Step S18)
In step S18, the CPU 11 performs a language switching process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to switch the language displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S18 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

As shown in FIG. 22(A), the point exchange device 1 is capable of switching between Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, but is not limited to these languages and may be capable of switching between other languages.

(Step S19)
In step S19, the CPU 11 performs a crime prevention process. Specifically, if the prize read by the prize reader 15 is a counterfeit or if the door 9a is open, the CPU 11 performs a process of photographing the prize by the camera 5. Then, when the process of step S19 ends, the main process of the point exchange device 1 ends and the process is executed again from step S1.

(Point exchange operation processing)
Next, the point exchange operation process performed in step S6 of the main process in the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S6-1)
In step S6-1, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a prize insertion image. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying an image (see FIG. 22B) on the liquid crystal display device 2, which prompts the player to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion unit 3. Then, when the process of step S6-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-2.

(Step S6-2)
In step S6-2, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "cancel" in the prize insertion image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has been performed (step S6-2=YES), the subroutine of the point exchange operation processing is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S6-2=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-3.

(Step S6-3)
In step S6-3, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the prize 50 has been read. Here, when the prize reading unit 15 reads the prize 50 inserted into the prize insertion unit 3, it transmits a signal to the control board 10 indicating that the prize 50 has been read. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the prize 50 has been read from the prize reading unit 15 has been received. Then, when it is determined that the prize 50 has been read (step S6-3=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-4. On the other hand, when it is determined that the prize 50 has not been read (step S6-3=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-2.

(Step S6-4)
In step S6-4, the CPU 11 performs an authenticity determination process. Specifically, the prize reading unit 15 transmits the first prize security information stored in the first prize chip 51a, the second prize security information stored in the second prize chip 52a, and the third prize security information stored in the third prize chip 53a to the control board 10. The CPU 11 then performs a process to determine whether the prize 50 is a counterfeit or not based on each piece of security information received from the prize reading unit 15. When the process of step S6-4 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-5.

(Step S6-5)
In step S6-5, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a counterfeit has been detected. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a counterfeit has been detected as a result of the authenticity determination process in step S6-4. If it is determined that a counterfeit has been detected (step S6-5=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-6. On the other hand, if it is determined that a counterfeit has not been detected (step S6-5=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-7.

(Step S6-6)
In step S6-6, the CPU 11 performs a counterfeit prize return process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of returning the prize 50 determined to be a counterfeit to the prize return section 4. The CPU 11 also performs a process of displaying an image indicating that the prize 50 has been returned on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S6-6 ends, the subroutine of the point exchange operation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

If a counterfeit prize 50 is detected, the crime prevention process in step S19 will involve taking a photograph of the person who inserted the counterfeit prize 50 into the prize insertion unit 3. This makes it possible to record the image of the person who is fraudulently attempting to exchange the counterfeit prize 50 for points.

If a counterfeit prize 50 is detected, an image informing the user that a counterfeit prize 50 has been detected may be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. At this time, a sound informing the user that a counterfeit prize 50 has been detected may be output from the speaker 6. This makes it possible to prevent the counterfeit prize 50 from being illegally exchanged for points.

(Step S6-7)
In step S6-7, the CPU 11 performs a prize insertion image update process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of updating the image (see FIG. 22(B)) that is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 and prompts the player to insert the prize 50 into the prize insertion unit 3. Then, when the process of step S6-7 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-8.

(Step S6-8)
In step S6-8, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the prize 50 has been read. Here, when the prize reading unit 15 reads the prize 50 inserted into the prize insertion unit 3, it transmits a signal indicating that the prize 50 has been read. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the prize 50 has been read from the prize reading unit 15 has been received. Then, if it is determined that the prize 50 has been read (step S6-8=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the prize 50 has not been read (step S6-8=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-9.

(Step S6-9)
In step S6-9, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation for "exchange" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "exchange" in the prize insertion image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that an operation for "exchange" has been performed (step S6-9=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-12. On the other hand, when it is determined that an operation for "exchange" has not been performed (step S6-9=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-10.

(Step S6-10)
In step S6-10, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "cancel" in the prize insertion image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that a "cancel" operation has been performed (step S6-10=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-11. On the other hand, when it is determined that a "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S6-10=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-8.

(Step S6-11)
In step S6-11, the CPU 11 performs a prize return process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to return the prize 50 to the prize return section 4. The CPU 11 also performs a process to display an image (see FIG. 23(E)) on the liquid crystal display device 2 indicating that the prize 50 has been returned. Then, when the process of step S6-11 ends, the subroutine of the point exchange operation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Step S6-12)
In step S6-12, the CPU 11 performs a confirmation image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying an image (see FIG. 22(D)) on the liquid crystal display device 2, which prompts the user to confirm the exchange of points for the prize 50. Then, when the process of step S6-12 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-13.

(Step S6-13)
In step S6-13, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "cancel" in the confirmation image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "cancel" operation has been performed (step S6-13=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-14. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S6-13=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-15.

(Step S6-14)
In step S6-14, the CPU 11 performs a prize return process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of returning the prize 50 to the prize return section 4. The CPU 11 also performs a process of displaying an image (see FIG. 23(E)) on the liquid crystal display device 2 indicating that the prize 50 has been returned. Then, when the process of step S6-14 ends, the subroutine of the point exchange operation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Step S6-15)
In step S6-15, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not an operation of "exchange" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "exchange" in the confirmation image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the operation of "exchange" has been performed (step S6-15=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-16. On the other hand, when it is judged that the operation of "exchange" has not been performed (step S6-15=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-13.

(Step S6-16)
In step S6-16, CPU 11 performs a point exchange information transmission process. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process of transmitting point exchange information to point management server 401. Here, the "point exchange information" includes at least the ID of point exchange device 1 and information related to the number of points to be exchanged. Then, when the process of step S6-16 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-17.

(Step S6-17)
In step S6-17, the CPU 11 performs a security code receiving process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to receive a security code from the point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S6-17 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-18.

(Step S6-18)
In step S6-18, the CPU 11 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code for point exchange. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code having information related to a URL for accessing the point management server 401, more specifically, information related to a URL for carrying out a procedure for exchanging the points, information related to the number of points to be exchanged, and information related to a security code. Then, when the process of step S6-18 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-19.

(Step S6-19)
In step S6-19, the CPU 11 performs a process for displaying a replacement receipt issuance image. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process for displaying, on the liquid crystal display device 2, a replacement receipt issuance image (see FIG. 22E) notifying the user that a piece of paper (receipt) for exchanging the gift 50 for points will be issued. Then, when the process of step S6-19 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-20.

(Step S6-20)
In step S6-20, the CPU 11 performs an exchange receipt issuing process. Specifically, the CPU 11 causes the printing unit 16 to print the two-dimensional code generated in the point exchange two-dimensional code generation process in step S6-18 on a piece of paper (receipt), and then performs a process of ejecting the printed paper (receipt) from the paper ejection port 7. Then, when the process of step S6-20 ends, the subroutine for the point exchange operation process ends, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Point confirmation operation processing)
Next, the point confirmation operation process performed in step S8 of the main process in the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S8-1)
In step S8-1, the CPU 11 performs a two-dimensional code read image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to display a two-dimensional code read image (see FIG. 24B) on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S8-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S8-2.

(Step S8-2)
In step S8-2, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "cancel" in the two-dimensional code read image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has been performed (step S8-2=YES), the subroutine of the point confirmation operation processing is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S8-2=NO), the process proceeds to step S8-3.

(Step S8-3)
In step S8-3, the CPU 11 performs a two-dimensional code reading process. Here, when the two-dimensional code reader 8 reads the two-dimensional code, it transmits a signal related to the read two-dimensional code to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 receives a signal related to the read two-dimensional code transmitted by the two-dimensional code reader 8, and performs a process of receiving the signal. Then, when the process of step S8-3 ends, the process proceeds to step S8-4.

In addition, in the two-dimensional code reading process in step S8-3, a two-dimensional code capable of identifying information related to the member is read.

(Step S8-4)
In step S8-4, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not reading is complete. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not reading of the two-dimensional code is complete by the two-dimensional code reading process in step S8-3. If it is determined that reading is complete (step S8-4=YES), the process proceeds to step S8-5. On the other hand, if it is determined that reading is not complete (step S8-4=NO), the process proceeds to step S8-2.

(Step S8-5)
In step S8-5, CPU 11 performs a member information receiving process. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process to request member management server 101 to transmit member information stored in member management DB 102 based on the two-dimensional code capable of identifying information related to the member read by the two-dimensional code reading process in step S8-3, and performs a process to receive the member information from member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S8-5 ends, the process proceeds to step S8-6.

Here, "member information" refers to the information stored in member ID storage area 102a, the information stored in name storage area 102b, the information stored in address storage area 102c, the information stored in terminal identification information storage area 102d, the information stored in telephone number storage area 102e, the information stored in email address storage area 102f, the information stored in password storage area 102g, the information stored in age storage area 102h, and the information stored in gender storage area 102i.

(Step S8-6)
In step S8-6, CPU 11 performs a point information receiving process. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process of requesting point management server 401 to transmit point information stored in point management DB 402 based on the member information received in the member information receiving process in step S8-5, and performs a process of receiving point information corresponding to the member information from point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S8-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S8-7.

Here, "point information" refers to the information stored in the point ID storage area 402a, the information stored in the update date and time storage area 402b, the information stored in the shop storage area 402c, the information stored in the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the information stored in the point management DB member ID storage area 402e, the information stored in the member name storage area 402f, the information stored in the updated point storage area 402g, and the information stored in the expiration date storage area 402h.

(Step S8-7)
In step S8-7, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a point confirmation image. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a point confirmation image (see FIG. 24C) on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the point information corresponding to the member information received in the point information receiving process in step S8-6. Then, when the process of step S8-7 ends, the process proceeds to step S8-8.

(Step S8-8)
In step S8-8, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a "print" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "print" in the point confirmation image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "print" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "print" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the "print" operation has been performed (step S8-8=YES), the process proceeds to step S8-9. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "print" operation has not been performed (step S8-8=NO), the process proceeds to step S8-10.

(Step S8-9)
In step S8-9, the CPU 11 performs a point confirmation image printing process. Specifically, the CPU 11 causes the printing unit 16 to print the point confirmation image displayed in the point confirmation image display process in step S8-7 onto a piece of paper (receipt), and then performs a process of discharging the printed paper (receipt) through the paper discharge port 7. Then, when the process in step S8-9 ends, the subroutine for the point confirmation operation process ends, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Step S8-10)
In step S8-10, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation to "end" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "end" in the point confirmation image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has been performed (step S8-10=YES), the subroutine of the processing at the time of the point confirmation operation is terminated, and the processing is shifted to step S19 of the main processing in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has not been performed (step S8-10=NO), the processing is shifted to step S8-11.

(Step S8-11)
In step S8-11, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "detail" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "detail" in the point confirmation image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "detail" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "detail" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "detail" operation has been performed (step S8-11=YES), the process proceeds to step S8-12. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "detail" operation has not been performed (step S8-11=NO), the process proceeds to step S8-8.

(Step S8-12)
In step S8-12, the CPU 11 performs detailed image display processing. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs processing to display the detailed image (see FIG. 24(D)) on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the processing of step S8-12 ends, the processing proceeds to step S8-13.

(Step S8-13)
In step S8-13, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not the "cursor" has been operated. Here, when an area corresponding to the "cursor" in the detailed image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "cursor" has been operated (step S8-13=YES), the process proceeds to step S8-14. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "cursor" has not been operated (step S8-13=NO), the process proceeds to step S8-15.

More details will be provided later, but "cursor" refers to the "upper cursor" and "lower cursor."

(Step S8-14)
In step S8-14, the CPU 11 performs a detailed image display update process. Specifically, when the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is operated, the CPU 11 performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display 2 of the detailed image displayed on the liquid crystal display 2 in response to the operation of the area corresponding to the "up cursor", and when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operated, the CPU 11 performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display 2 of the detailed image displayed on the liquid crystal display 2 in response to the operation of the "down cursor". Then, when the process of step S8-14 is completed, the process proceeds to step S8-13.

(Step S8-15)
In step S8-15, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "print" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "print" among the detailed images displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "print" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "print" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "print" operation has been performed (step S8-15=YES), the process proceeds to step S8-16. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "print" operation has not been performed (step S8-15=NO), the process proceeds to step S8-17.

(Step S8-16)
In step S8-16, the CPU 11 performs a detailed image printing process. Specifically, the CPU 11 causes the printing unit 16 to print on paper (a receipt) the detailed image displayed in the detailed image display process in step S8-12 or the detailed image updated in the detailed image display update process in step S8-14, and then performs a process of discharging the printed paper (receipt) through the paper discharge port 7. Then, when the process of step S8-16 ends, the subroutine for the point confirmation operation process ends, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Step S8-17)
In step S8-17, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation to "end" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "end" in the detailed image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has been performed (step S8-17=YES), the subroutine of the point confirmation operation processing is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has not been performed (step S8-17=NO), the process proceeds to step S8-13.

(Product exchange operation processing)
Next, the product exchange operation process performed in step S10 of the main process in the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S10-1)
In step S10-1, the CPU 11 performs a two-dimensional code read image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to display a two-dimensional code read image (see FIG. 25B) on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S10-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-2.

(Step S10-2)
In step S10-2, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated on the two-dimensional code read image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated has been transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has been performed (step S10-2=YES), the CPU 11 ends the subroutine of the product exchange operation processing, and proceeds to step S19 of the main processing in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S10-2=NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S10-3.

(Step S10-3)
In step S10-3, the CPU 11 performs a two-dimensional code reading process. Here, when the two-dimensional code reader 8 reads the two-dimensional code, it transmits a signal related to the read two-dimensional code to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 receives a signal related to the read two-dimensional code transmitted by the two-dimensional code reader 8, and performs a process of receiving the signal. Then, when the process of step S10-3 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-4.

In the two-dimensional code reading process in step S10-3, a two-dimensional code capable of identifying information related to the member is read. Here, the two-dimensional code capable of identifying information related to the member is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P by connecting to the member management server 101 using the mobile terminal P and performing a predetermined procedure.

(Step S10-4)
In step S10-4, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not reading is complete. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not reading of the two-dimensional code is complete by the two-dimensional code reading process in step S10-3. If it is determined that reading is complete (step S10-4=YES), the process proceeds to step S10-5. On the other hand, if it is determined that reading is not complete (step S10-4=NO), the process proceeds to step S10-2.

(Step S10-5)
In step S10-5, CPU 11 performs a member information receiving process. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process of requesting member management server 101 to transmit member information stored in member management DB 102 based on the two-dimensional code capable of identifying information related to the member read by the two-dimensional code reading process in step S10-3, and performs a process of receiving the member information from member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S10-5 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-6.

(Step S10-6)
In step S10-6, CPU 11 performs a point information receiving process. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process of requesting point management server 401 to transmit point information stored in point management DB 402 based on the member information received in the member information receiving process in step S10-5, and performs a process of receiving point information corresponding to the member information from point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S10-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-7.

(Step S10-7)
In step S10-7, the CPU 11 performs a product information receiving process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of requesting the product management server 301 to transmit the product information stored in the product management DB 302, and performs a process of receiving the product information from the product management server 301. Then, when the process of step S10-7 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-8.

Here, "product information" refers to the information stored in the product ID storage area 302a, the information stored in the product name storage area 302b, the information stored in the product description storage area 302c, the information stored in the category storage area 302d, the information stored in the image data storage area 302e, the information stored in the stock quantity storage area 302f, the information stored in the required points storage area 302g, and the information stored in the expiration date storage area 302h.

(Step S10-8)
In step S10-8, the CPU 11 performs a category selection image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a category selection image (see FIG. 25(C)) on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the product information received in the product information reception process in step S10-7. Then, when the process of step S10-8 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-9.

(Step S10-9)
In step S10-9, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not an operation on "Category" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "Category" in the category selection image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "Category" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "Category" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that an operation on "Category" has been performed (step S10-9=YES), the process proceeds to step S10-10. On the other hand, when it is determined that an operation on "Category" has not been performed (step S10-9=NO), the process of step S10-9 is repeated until an operation on "Category" is performed.

As will be explained in more detail later, the "categories" include "books," "miscellaneous goods," "food," "game points," "CDs and DVDs," "home appliances," "gift certificates," and "all."

(Step S10-10)
In step S10-10, the CPU 11 performs a product exchange image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to display a product exchange image (see FIG. 25(D)) on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the member information received in the member information receiving process in step S10-5, the point information received in the point information receiving process in step S10-6, the product information received in the product information receiving process in step S10-7, and the "category" operated in the process of step S10-9. Then, when the process of step S10-10 is completed, the process proceeds to step S10-11.

(Step S10-11)
In step S10-11, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "sort" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "sort" in the commodity exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "sort" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "sort" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "sort" operation has been performed (step S10-11=YES), the process proceeds to step S10-12. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "sort" operation has not been performed (step S10-11=NO), the process proceeds to step S10-13.

(Step S10-12)
In step S10-12, the CPU 11 performs a process at the time of a sort operation. Specifically, the CPU 11 first performs a process of displaying a sort image (see FIG. 27(E)) on which a plurality of sort conditions are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Next, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the "sort conditions" of the sort images displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 have been operated, and if the "sort conditions" have been operated, performs a process of sorting the product images displayed on the product exchange image based on the operated "sort conditions". Then, when the process of step S10-12 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-11.

(Step S10-13)
In step S10-13, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the "cursor" has been operated. Here, when an area corresponding to the "cursor" in the commodity exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the "cursor" has been operated (step S10-13=YES), the process proceeds to step S10-14. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "cursor" has not been operated (step S10-13=NO), the process proceeds to step S10-15.

(Step S10-14)
In step S10-14, the CPU 11 performs a product exchange image update process. Specifically, when the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is operated, the CPU 11 performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device 2 of the product exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 in response to the operation of the "up cursor", and when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operated, the CPU 11 performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device 2 of the product exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 in response to the operation of the "down cursor". Then, when the process of step S10-14 is completed, the process proceeds to step S10-11.

(Step S10-15)
In step S10-15, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation to "end" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "end" in the product exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has been performed (step S10-15=YES), the CPU 11 ends the subroutine of the product exchange operation processing, and shifts the process to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has not been performed (step S10-15=NO), the process shifts to step S10-16.

(Step S10-16)
In step S10-16, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not an operation of the "product" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to the "product" in the product exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "product" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "product" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "product" has been operated (step S10-16=YES), the process proceeds to step S10-17. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "product" has not been operated (step S10-16=NO), the process proceeds to step S10-11.

(Step S10-17)
In step S10-17, the CPU 11 performs a detailed product image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a detailed product image (see FIG. 25(F)) corresponding to the "product" operated in the process of step S10-16 on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S10-17 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-18.

(Step S10-18)
In step S10-18, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "cancel" in the product detail image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has been performed (step S10-18=YES), the CPU 11 ends the subroutine of the product exchange operation processing, and shifts the process to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S10-18=NO), the process shifts to step S10-19.

(Step S10-19)
In step S10-19, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation for "exchange" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "exchange" in the detailed product image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that an operation for "exchange" has been performed (step S10-19=YES), the process proceeds to step S10-20. On the other hand, when it is determined that an operation for "exchange" has not been performed (step S10-19=NO), the process proceeds to step S10-18.

(Step S10-20)
In step S10-20, the CPU 11 performs a product exchange confirmation image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a product confirmation image (see FIG. 25(G)) corresponding to the "exchange" operation performed in the process of step S10-19 on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S10-20 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-21.

(Step S10-21)
In step S10-21, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "cancel" in the product exchange confirmation image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has been performed (step S10-21=YES), the CPU 11 ends the subroutine of the product exchange operation processing, and shifts the process to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S10-21=NO), the process shifts to step S10-22.

(Step S10-22)
In step S10-22, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation for "exchange" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "exchange" in the product exchange confirmation image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "exchange" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that an operation for "exchange" has been performed (step S10-22=YES), the process proceeds to step S10-23. On the other hand, when it is determined that an operation for "exchange" has not been performed (step S10-22=NO), the process proceeds to step S10-21.

(Step S10-23)
In step S10-23, the CPU 11 performs a product exchange information transmission process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of transmitting the product exchange information to the purchase management server 201. Then, when the process of step S10-23 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-24.

Here, "product exchange information" refers to information related to the exchange device ID of the point exchange device 1, information related to the member's name, information related to the product to be exchanged, information related to the address, and information related to the telephone number.

(Step S10-24)
In step S10-24, the CPU 11 performs a point subtraction information transmission process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of transmitting point subtraction information to the point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S10-24 ends, the process proceeds to step S10-25.

Here, "point deduction information" refers to the exchange device ID of the point exchange device 1, information related to the member ID, information related to the member's name, and information related to the points corresponding to the product to be exchanged.

(Step S10-25)
In step S10-25, the CPU 11 performs a product exchange completion image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a product exchange completion image (see FIG. 25(H)) on the liquid crystal display device 2 to notify that the product exchange has been completed. Then, when the process of step S10-25 ends, the subroutine of the product exchange operation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Product confirmation process)
Next, the product confirmation operation process performed in step S12 of the main process in the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S12-1)
In step S12-1, the CPU 11 performs a product information receiving process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of requesting the product management server 301 to transmit the product information stored in the product management DB 302, and performs a process of receiving the product information from the product management server 301. Then, when the process of step S12-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S12-2.

(Step S12-2)
In step S12-2, the CPU 11 performs a category selection image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a category selection image (see FIG. 28(B)) on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the product information received in the product information reception process in step S12-1. Then, when the process of step S12-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S12-3.

(Step S12-3)
In step S12-3, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not an operation of "Category" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "Category" in the category selection image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "Category" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "Category" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that an operation of "Category" has been performed (step S12-3=YES), the process proceeds to step S12-4. On the other hand, when it is judged that an operation of "Category" has not been performed (step S12-3=NO), the process of step S12-3 is repeatedly performed until an operation of "Category" is performed.

(Step S12-4)
In step S12-4, the CPU 11 performs a product list image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a product list image (see FIG. 28C) on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the "category" operated in the process of step S12-3. Then, when the process of step S12-4 ends, the process proceeds to step S12-5.

(Step S12-5)
In step S12-5, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "sort" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "sort" in the product list image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "sort" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "sort" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that a "sort" operation has been performed (step S12-5=YES), the process proceeds to step S12-6. On the other hand, when it is judged that a "sort" operation has not been performed (step S12-5=NO), the process proceeds to step S12-7.

(Step S12-6)
In step S12-6, the CPU 11 performs a process at the time of a sort operation. Specifically, the CPU 11 first performs a process of displaying a sort image (see FIG. 27(E)) on which a plurality of sort conditions are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Next, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the "sort conditions" of the sort images displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 have been operated, and if the "sort conditions" have been operated, performs a process of sorting the product images displayed in the product list image based on the operated "sort conditions". Then, when the process of step S12-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S12-5.

(Step S12-7)
In step S12-7, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not the "cursor" has been operated. Here, when an area corresponding to the "cursor" in the product list image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "cursor" has been operated (step S12-7=YES), the process proceeds to step S12-8. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "cursor" has not been operated (step S12-7=NO), the process proceeds to step S12-9.

(Step S12-8)
In step S12-8, the CPU 11 performs a product list image update process. Specifically, when the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is operated, the CPU 11 performs a process to update the display of the liquid crystal display device 2 of the product list image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 in response to the operation of the area corresponding to the "up cursor", and when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operated, the CPU 11 performs a process to update the display of the liquid crystal display device 2 of the product list image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 in response to the operation of the "down cursor". Then, when the process of step S12-8 is completed, the process proceeds to step S12-5.

(Step S12-9)
In step S12-9, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation to "end" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "end" in the product exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has been performed (step S12-9=YES), the subroutine of the product confirmation operation processing is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has not been performed (step S12-9=NO), the process proceeds to step S12-10.

(Step S12-10)
In step S12-10, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not an operation of the "product" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to the "product" in the product list image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "product" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to the "product" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is judged that the "product" has been operated (step S12-10=YES), the process proceeds to step S12-11. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "product" has not been operated (step S12-10=NO), the process proceeds to step S12-5.

(Step S12-11)
In step S12-11, the CPU 11 performs a product introduction image display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a product introduction image (see FIG. 28(D)) corresponding to the "product" operated in the process of step S12-11 on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S12-11 ends, the process proceeds to step S12-12.

(Step S12-12)
In step S12-12, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation to "end" has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "end" in the product introduction image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor 2a and the signal has been received. Then, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has been performed (step S12-12=YES), the CPU 11 terminates the subroutine of the product confirmation operation processing, and proceeds to step S19 of the main processing in the point exchange device 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation to "end" has not been performed (step S12-12=NO), the CPU 11 repeats the process of step S12-12 until the operation to "end" is performed.

(Member registration process)
Next, the member registration operation process performed in step S14 of the main process in the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S14-1)
In step S14-1, the CPU 11 performs a process for displaying an image for member registration operation on the liquid crystal display device 2 (see FIG. 29B), which notifies the user that a paper (receipt) on which a two-dimensional code required for member registration is printed will be received. Then, when the process of step S14-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S14-2.

(Step S14-2)
In step S14-2, CPU 11 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code for member registration. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code having information related to a URL for accessing member management server 101, more specifically, information related to a URL for performing a member registration procedure. Then, when the process of step S14-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S14-3.

(Step S14-3)
In step S14-3, the CPU 11 performs a two-dimensional code printing process for member registration. Specifically, the CPU 11 causes the printing unit 16 to print the two-dimensional code generated in the member registration two-dimensional code generation process in step S14-2 on a piece of paper (receipt), and then performs a process of discharging the printed paper (receipt) through the paper discharge port 7. Then, when the process of step S14-3 ends, the subroutine for the member registration operation process ends, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Processing when updating member information)
Next, the member information update operation process performed in step S16 of the main process in the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S16-1)
In step S16-1, the CPU 11 performs a process for displaying an image for use during a member information update operation. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process for displaying, on the liquid crystal display device 2, an image for use during a member information update operation (see FIG. 30(B)), which notifies the user that a paper (receipt) on which a two-dimensional code required for updating the member information is printed will be received. Then, when the process of step S16-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S16-2.

(Step S16-2)
In step S16-2, CPU 11 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code for updating member information. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code having information related to a URL for accessing member management server 101, more specifically, information related to a URL for performing a procedure for updating member information. Then, when the process of step S16-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S16-3.

(Step S16-3)
In step S16-3, the CPU 11 performs a member information updating two-dimensional code printing process. Specifically, the CPU 11 causes the printing unit 16 to print the two-dimensional code generated in the member information updating two-dimensional code generation process in step S16-2 on a piece of paper (receipt), and then performs a process of discharging the printed paper (receipt) through the paper discharge port 7. Then, when the process of step S16-3 ends, the subroutine of the member information updating operation process ends, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process in the point exchange device 1.

(Main Processing in Member Management Server 101)
Next, the main processing in the member management server 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S101)
In step S101, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not member registration information has been received. Specifically, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not member registration information has been received from mobile terminal P via the Internet. If it is determined that member registration information has been received (step S101=YES), the process proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if it is determined that member registration information has not been received (step S101=NO), the process proceeds to step S103.

(Step S102)
In step S102, member management server 101 performs processing upon receiving the member registration information. Specifically, member management server 101 performs processing to register the received member registration information in member management DB 102. Then, when the processing of step S102 ends, the main processing in member management server 101 ends, and processing is executed again from step S101.

(Step S103)
In step S103, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not member update information has been received. Specifically, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not member update information has been received from mobile terminal P via the Internet. If it is determined that member update information has been received (step S103=YES), the process proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, if it is determined that member update information has not been received (step S103=NO), the process proceeds to step S105.

(Step S104)
In step S104, member management server 101 performs processing upon receiving the member update information. Specifically, member management server 101 performs processing to update the member registration information registered in member management DB 102 with the newly received member update information and register it. Then, when the processing of step S104 ends, the main processing in member management server 101 ends, and processing is executed again from step S101.

(Step S105)
In step S105, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not name and password information has been received. Specifically, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not name and password information has been received from point management server 401. If it is determined that name and password information has been received (step S105=YES), the process proceeds to step S106. On the other hand, if it is determined that name and password information has not been received (step S105=NO), the process proceeds to step S108.

(Step S106)
In step S106, the member management server 101 performs a member authentication process. Specifically, the member management server 101 determines whether the information related to the member's name registered in the name storage area 102b of the member management DB 102 matches the information related to the name in the received name and password information, and if they match, performs a process to determine whether the information stored in the password storage area 102g matches the information related to the password in the received name and password information. Here, the member management server 101 determines that the member has been authenticated as a member when the information related to the member's name registered in the name storage area 102b of the member management DB 102 matches the information related to the name in the received name and password information, and when the information stored in the password storage area 102g matches the information related to the password in the received name and password information. Then, when the process of step S106 is completed, the process proceeds to step S107.

(Step S107)
In step S107, member management server 101 performs a member authentication result information transmission process. Specifically, member management server 101 performs a process to transmit member authentication result information to point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S107 ends, member management server 101 ends the main process and executes the process again from step S101.

Here, "member authentication result information" refers to information related to the results of the member authentication process in step S106. That is, it refers to information that the person has been authenticated as a member, or information that the person could not be authenticated as a member.

(Step S108)
In step S108, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not a request to transmit member information has been received. Specifically, member management server 101 performs a process to determine whether or not a request to transmit member information has been received from point exchange device 1 or point management server 401. If it is determined that a request to transmit member information has been received (step S108=YES), the process proceeds to step S109. On the other hand, if it is determined that a request to transmit member information has not been received (step S108=NO), the main process in member management server 101 is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S101.

(Step S109)
In step S109, member management server 101 performs a member information transmission process. Specifically, member management server 101 performs a process of transmitting member information to the transmission request destination. Then, when the process of step S109 ends, the main process in member management server 101 ends, and the process is executed again from step S101.

(Main Processing in Purchase Management Server 201)
Next, the main processing in the purchase management server 201 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S201)
In step S201, the purchasing management server 201 performs a process to determine whether or not product exchange information has been received. Specifically, the purchasing management server 201 performs a process to determine whether or not the product exchange information transmitted from the point exchange device 1 in the product exchange information transmission process of step S10-23 has been received. If it is determined that the product exchange information has been received (step S201=YES), the process proceeds to step S202. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product exchange information has not been received (step S201=NO), the main process in the purchasing management server 201 is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S201.

(Step S202)
In step S202, the purchasing management server 201 performs a product exchange information registration process. Specifically, the purchasing management server 201 performs a process of registering the product exchange information transmitted from the point exchange device 1 in the purchasing management DB 202 by the product exchange information transmission process in step S10-23. Then, when the process of step S202 ends, the process proceeds to step S203.

(Step S203)
In step S203, the purchasing management server 201 performs a process of transmitting product exchange completion information. Specifically, the purchasing management server 201 performs a process of transmitting product exchange completion information to the product management server 301. Then, when the process of step S203 ends, the main process in the purchasing management server 201 ends, and the process is executed again from step S201.

Here, "product exchange completion information" includes at least information related to the products registered in the purchased product storage area 202e of the purchasing management DB 202.

(Main Processing in Product Management Server 301)
Next, the main processing in the product management server 301 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S301)
In step S301, the product management server 301 performs a process of determining whether or not product exchange completion information has been received. Specifically, the product management server 301 performs a process of determining whether or not product exchange completion information has been received from the purchase management server 201. If it is determined that the product exchange completion information has been received (step S301=YES), the process proceeds to step S302. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product exchange completion information has not been received (step S301=NO), the process proceeds to step S303.

(Step S302)
In step S302, the product management server 301 performs a stock quantity subtraction process. Specifically, the product management server 301 performs a process of subtracting "1" from the value related to the stock quantity stored in the stock quantity storage area 302f of the product management DB 302 based on the received product exchange completion information. Then, when the process of step S302 ends, the main process in the product management server 301 ends, and the process is executed again from step S301.

When exchanging points for products, the points may be exchanged for multiple products in one process. In this case, in the inventory quantity subtraction process in step S302, the number of products to be exchanged is subtracted from the value related to the inventory quantity stored in the inventory quantity storage area 302f.

(Step S303)
In step S303, the product management server 301 performs a process to determine whether an operation to update the stock quantity has been performed. Specifically, the manager of the product management server 301 performs an operation to update the stock quantity when, for example, a new product registered in the product management DB 302 is received or when a product that has reached its expiration date is disposed of. Therefore, the product management server 301 performs a process to determine whether an operation to add or subtract the stock quantity has been performed by the manager. Then, if it is determined that an operation to update the stock quantity has been performed (step S303=YES), the process proceeds to step S304. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation to update the stock quantity has not been performed (step S303=NO), the process proceeds to step S305.

(Step S304)
In step S304, the product management server 301 performs an inventory update process. Specifically, when the product management server 301 receives new products registered in the product management DB 302, the product management server 301 performs a process of adding the number of received products to the value stored in the inventory quantity storage area 302f, and when the product management server 301 disposes of products that have reached their expiration date, the product management server 301 performs a process of subtracting the number of products to be disposed of from the value stored in the inventory quantity storage area 302f. Then, when the process of step S304 ends, the main process in the product management server 301 ends, and the process is executed again from step S301.

(Step S305)
In step S305, the product management server 301 performs a process of judging whether or not an operation to register a new product has been performed. Specifically, for example, when a new product is received, the administrator of the product management server 301 performs an operation to register information related to the new product in the product management DB 302. Therefore, the product management server 301 performs a process of judging whether or not an operation to register a new product has been performed by the administrator. Then, if it is judged that an operation to register a new product has been performed (step S305=YES), the process proceeds to step S306. On the other hand, if it is judged that an operation to register a new product has not been performed (step S305=NO), the process proceeds to step S307.

(Step S306)
In step S306, the product management server 301 performs a new product information registration process. Specifically, the product management server 301 performs a process of registering information related to the new product in the product management DB 302. When performing the new product information registration process, the name of the product stored in the product name storage area 302b, the information on the product description stored in the product description storage area 302c, the information on the category stored in the category storage area 302d, the image data of the product stored in the image data storage area 302e, the stock quantity of the product stored in the stock quantity storage area 302f, the information on the points required to exchange for the product stored in the required points storage area 302g, the expiration date of the product stored in the expiration date storage area 302h (limited to products belonging to a category (e.g., food) for which an expiration date must be input), the purchase price of the product stored in the purchase price storage area 302i, and the supplier of the product stored in the supplier storage area 302j are registered, and when these are registered, the product ID of the product ID storage area 302a is automatically assigned. When the process of step S306 ends, the main process in the product management server 301 ends, and the process is executed again from step S301.

(Step S307)
In step S307, the product management server 301 performs a process to determine whether or not a product information transmission request has been made. Specifically, the product management server 301 performs a process to determine whether or not a product information transmission request has been made from the point exchange device 1. If it is determined that a product information transmission request has been made (step S307=YES), the process proceeds to step S308. On the other hand, if it is determined that no product information transmission request has been made (step S307=NO), the main process in the product management server 301 is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S301.

(Step S308)
In step S308, the product management server 301 performs a product information transmission process. Specifically, the product management server 301 performs a process of transmitting the product information to the transmission request destination. Then, when the process of step S308 ends, the main process in the product management server 301 ends, and the process is executed again from step S301.

(Main Processing in Point Management Server 401)
Next, the main processing in the point management server 401 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S401)
In step S401, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not it is the point expiration date update time. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the current time is "00:00:00", which is the point expiration date update time. If it is determined that it is the point expiration date update time (step S401 = YES), the process proceeds to step S402. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not the point expiration date update time (step S401 = NO), the process proceeds to step S404.

Note that the "point expiration date update time" does not have to be "00:00:00" and can be set as appropriate.

(Step S402)
In step S402, the point management server 401 performs a process of prohibiting the update of points that are due to expire. Specifically, the point management server 401 identifies points that have reached their expiration date based on information related to the expiration date of the points stored in the expiration date storage area 402h of the point management DB 402, and performs a process of prohibiting the update of information related to the identified points. Then, when the process of step S402 ends, the process proceeds to step S403.

(Step S403)
In step S403, the point management server 401 performs a process of deleting points that are subject to expiration. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of deleting information related to points that have reached the expiration date specified by the process of prohibiting update of points that are subject to expiration in step S402. Then, when the process of step S403 ends, the process proceeds to step S404.

More specifically, for example, when the time reaches "00:00:00", the points to be deleted are identified by identifying the information related to the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage area 402h. After identifying the points to be deleted, the points to be deleted are deleted from the associated and stored point ID storage area 402a, update date and time storage area 402b, shop storage area 402c, point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, point management DB member ID storage area 402e, member name storage area 402f, updated point storage area 402g, expiration date storage area 402h, and security code storage area 402i.

(Step S404)
In step S404, point management server 401 performs a process of determining whether or not point exchange information has been received. Specifically, point management server 401 performs a process of determining whether or not point exchange information has been received from point exchange device 1. Then, if it is determined that point exchange information has been received (step S404=YES), the process proceeds to step S405. On the other hand, if it is determined that point exchange information has not been received (step S404=NO), the process proceeds to step S406.

(Step S405)
In step S405, the point management server 401 performs a point exchange information storage process. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of storing the point exchange information received by the point exchange device 1 in the point management DB 402. More specifically, first, a new ID is assigned as the point ID storage area 402a of the point management DB 402, and information related to the shop in which the point exchange device 1 is installed, which is included in the point exchange information, is stored in the shop storage area 402c in association with the new ID, the ID of the point exchange device 1 is stored in the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, and the number of points to be exchanged is stored in the updated point storage area 402g. Then, a process of storing the date and time when the point exchange information was stored in the updated date and time storage area 402b is performed, and a process of generating a security code and storing information related to the generated security code in the security code storage area 402i is performed. Then, when the process of step S405 is completed, the main process in the point management server 401 is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S401.

(Step S406)
In step S406, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not a security code transmission request has been made. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not a security code transmission request has been made from the point exchange device 1. Then, if it is determined that a security code transmission request has been made (step S406=YES), the process proceeds to step S407. On the other hand, if it is determined that a security code transmission request has not been made (step S406=NO), the process proceeds to step S408.

(Step S407)
In step S407, the point management server 401 performs a security code transmission process. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of transmitting the security code generated by the point exchange information storage process in step S405 to the point exchange device 1. Then, when the process of step S407 ends, the main process in the point management server 401 ends, and the process is executed again from step S401.

(Step S408)
In step S408, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the name and password information has been received. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the name and password information has been received from the mobile terminal P via the Internet. Then, if it is determined that the name and password information has been received (step S408=YES), the process proceeds to step S409. On the other hand, if it is determined that the name and password information has not been received (step S408=NO), the process proceeds to step S414.

As will be described in more detail later, when the mobile device P transmits information related to the name and password, it also transmits information related to the security code.

(Step S409)
In step S409, the point management server 401 performs a point allocation authentication process. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the information related to the security code received from the mobile terminal P matches the information related to the security code stored in the security code storage area 402i of the point management DB 402. The point management server 401 also performs a process to transmit name and password information to the member management server 101 and receive member authentication result information. Then, when the process of step S409 ends, the process proceeds to step S410.

(Step S410)
In step S410, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not authentication has been performed. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not, as a result of the point-granting authentication process in step S409, the information related to the security code received from the mobile terminal P matches the information related to the security code stored in the security code storage area 402i of the point management DB 402, and the member authentication result information received from the member management server 101 contains information indicating that the user has been authenticated as a member. Here, the point management server 401 determines that authentication has been performed if, as a result of the point-granting authentication process in step S409, the information related to the security code received from the mobile terminal P matches the information related to the security code stored in the security code storage area 402i of the point management DB 402, and the member authentication result information received from the member management server 101 contains information indicating that the user has been authenticated as a member. Then, if it is determined that authentication has been performed (step S410=YES), the process proceeds to step S411. On the other hand, if it is determined that authentication has not been performed (step S410: NO), the main processing in the point management server 401 is terminated, and the processing is executed again from step S401.

(Step S411)
In step S411, the point management server 401 performs a point addition process. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of storing information indicating that points are to be granted in the point management DB 402 based on the information related to the name and password received from the mobile terminal P and the information stored in each storage area associated with the information related to the security code stored in the security code storage area 402i stored in the point management DB 402. In addition, the point management server 401 calculates the points before being added by the current point addition process, the points to be added by the current point addition process, and the total points of these points based on the information stored in the point management DB 402, and transmits these points to the mobile terminal P. As a result, the points before being added by the current point addition process, the points to be added by the current point addition process, and the total points of these points are notified to the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S411 is completed, the process proceeds to step S412.

(Step S412)
In step S412, point management server 401 performs a process of receiving the member information to which e-mail is to be sent. Specifically, point management server 401 requests member management server 101 to send the member information to which e-mail is to be sent, and performs a process of receiving the member information to which e-mail is to be sent from member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S412 ends, the process proceeds to step S413.

(Step S413)
In step S413, the point management server 401 performs a point addition email transmission process. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of transmitting a point addition email based on the email target member information received in the email target member information reception process in step S412. Then, when the process of step S413 ends, the main process in the point management server 401 ends, and the process is executed again from step S401.

Here, the "points addition email" contains at least information related to the member's name and information related to the points granted. It may also contain other information, such as information related to the expiration date.

At this time, the point management server 401 transmits to the mobile device P via the Internet the information necessary to display a point exchange completion image on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P, more specifically, information related to the name, a text image saying "Point exchange has been completed," the total points before the points are added, the points to be added, and the information necessary to display these total points.

(Step S414)
In step S414, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not point subtraction information has been received. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not point subtraction information has been received from the point exchange device 1. Then, if it is determined that point subtraction information has been received (step S414=YES), the process proceeds to step S415. On the other hand, if it is determined that point subtraction information has not been received (step S414=NO), the process proceeds to step S416.

(Step S415)
In step S415, the point management server 401 performs a process when receiving the point subtraction information. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of storing the received point subtraction information in the point management DB 402. Then, when the process of step S415 ends, the main process in the point management server 401 ends, and the process is executed again from step S401.

(Step S416)
In step S416, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not a point information transmission request has been made. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not a point information transmission request has been made from the point exchange device 1. Then, if it is determined that a point information transmission request has been made (step S416=YES), the process proceeds to step S417. On the other hand, if it is determined that no point information transmission request has been made (step S416=NO), the main process in the point management server 401 is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S401.

(Step S417)
In step S417, the point management server 401 performs a point information transmission process. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of transmitting point information to the transmission request destination. Then, when the process of step S417 ends, the main process in the point management server 401 ends, and the process is executed again from step S401.

(Animation when exchanging points)
Next, the animation that occurs when exchanging points will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 22(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1. Here, when the top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P, the area corresponding to "point exchange", the area corresponding to "point confirmation", the area corresponding to "product exchange", the area corresponding to "product confirmation", the area corresponding to "member registration", and the area corresponding to "member information update" are operable.

In addition, in FIG. 22(A), the area corresponding to "point exchange", the area corresponding to "point confirmation", the area corresponding to "product exchange", the area corresponding to "product confirmation", the area corresponding to "member registration", and the area corresponding to "member information update" are displayed in the same color, thereby indicating that the area corresponding to "point exchange", the area corresponding to "point confirmation", the area corresponding to "product exchange", the area corresponding to "product confirmation", the area corresponding to "member registration", and the area corresponding to "member information update" can be operated.

In addition, in FIG. 22(A), the area corresponding to "language" is operable. Specifically, the area corresponding to "English", the area corresponding to "Chinese", and the area corresponding to "Korean" are operable. When the area corresponding to "English" is operated, a process is performed in which the characters displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 are switched to English for display, when the area corresponding to "Chinese" is operated, a process is performed in which the characters displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 are switched to Chinese for display, and when the area corresponding to "Korean" is operated, a process is performed in which the characters displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 are switched to Korean for display.

Next, as shown in FIG. 22(B), when the area corresponding to "point exchange" is operated in FIG. 22(A), an image prompting the user to insert prizes 50 into the prize insertion section 3 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, in FIG. 22(B), the number of first prizes 51 inserted, the number of second prizes 52 inserted, and the number of third prizes 53 inserted are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Note that in FIG. 22(B), since prizes 50 have not yet been inserted, the number of first prizes 51 inserted, the number of second prizes 52 inserted, and the number of third prizes 53 are all "0".

In addition, in FIG. 22(B), while the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operable, the area corresponding to "Exchange" is not operable because prize 50 has not been inserted. Note that in FIG. 22(B), the area corresponding to "Cancel", which is operable, is displayed in white, and the area corresponding to "Exchange", which is not operable, is displayed in gray. In other words, by displaying the area corresponding to "Cancel", which is operable, and the area corresponding to "Exchange", which is not operable, in different colors, it is notified that the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operable and that the area corresponding to "Exchange" is not operable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 22(C), in FIG. 22(B), when "1" first prize 51 is inserted into the prize insertion unit 3 and the prize reading unit 15 determines that the inserted first prize 51 is not a counterfeit, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 encouraging the user to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion unit 3 is updated. Specifically, the area displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 that notifies the number of first prizes 51 inserted is updated.

In addition, in FIG. 22(C), the area corresponding to "Cancel" and the area corresponding to "Exchange" are operable. Note that in FIG. 22(C), the area corresponding to "Cancel" and the area corresponding to "Exchange" that are operable are displayed in white, thereby informing the user that the area corresponding to "Cancel" and the area corresponding to "Exchange" are operable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 22(D), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 22(C) is operated, an image prompting confirmation of the exchange of prizes 50 for points is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Specifically, the number of prizes 50 inserted into the prize insertion unit 3 and determined by the prize reading unit 15 to be not counterfeit, the value of the points to be exchanged, and the fact that the expiration date is "3" months from the date of exchange are notified.

In addition, in FIG. 22(D), the area corresponding to "Cancel" and the area corresponding to "Exchange" are operable. Note that in FIG. 22(D), the area corresponding to "Cancel", which is operable, and the area corresponding to "Exchange", which is inoperable, are displayed in white, thereby informing the user that the area corresponding to "Cancel" and the area corresponding to "Exchange" are operable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 22(E), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 22(D) is operated, a replacement receipt issuing image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2, notifying the user that paper (receipt) for exchanging the prize 50 for points will be ejected. Here, the "replacement receipt issuing image" includes an animation image of paper (receipt) being ejected from the paper ejection slot 7, and a text image that reads "Please take your receipt."

Next, as shown in FIG. 22(F), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 22(E), the top menu image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 22(G), when the mobile terminal P reads the two-dimensional code printed on the paper (receipt) for exchanging the prize 50 discharged from the paper discharge port 7 for points, it connects to the point management server 401 via the Internet. At this time, a point addition image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

As shown in FIG. 22(G), the "point addition image" includes an area for inputting name-related information, an area for inputting password-related information, and an area corresponding to "Complete" that becomes operable after these information has been input. The area corresponding to "Complete" becomes operable when name-related information and password-related information have been input. Here, the area corresponding to "Complete" is displayed in white when it becomes operable, and is displayed in gray when it is not operable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 22(H), when the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated after the name-related information and password-related information are input in FIG. 22(G), a point exchange completion image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "point exchange completion image" includes the name-related information, a text image saying "Point exchange has been completed," the total points before the points are added, the points to be added, and these total points.

(Animation when canceling)
Next, the animation at the time of cancellation will be described with reference to FIG.

First, using Figures 23(A) to 23(C), we will explain what happens when the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated before the prize 50 is inserted into the prize insertion unit 3.

First, as shown in FIG. 23(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(B), when the area corresponding to "point exchange" in FIG. 22(A) is operated, an image prompting the player to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion section 3 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(C), when the area corresponding to "Cancel" in FIG. 23(B) is operated, the top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

In this way, if the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated before the prize 50 is inserted into the prize insertion unit 3, the top menu image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Note that if "Cancel" is operated before the prize 50 is inserted into the prize insertion unit 3, it is also possible to display on the liquid crystal display device 2 a message that the points exchange has been canceled, and then display the top menu image on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, using Figures 23(D) to 23(E), we will explain what happens when the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated after the prize 50 has been inserted into the prize insertion unit 3.

First, as shown in FIG. 23(D), in FIG. 23(B), when "1" first prize 51 is inserted into the prize insertion unit 3 and the prize reading unit 15 determines that the inserted first prize 51 is not a counterfeit, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 encouraging the user to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion unit 3 is updated. Specifically, the area displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 that notifies the number of first prizes 51 inserted is updated.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(E), when the area corresponding to "Cancel" in FIG. 23(D) is operated, an image indicating that the prize 50 has been returned is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Specifically, a text image stating "Point exchange has been cancelled" and a text image stating "Please be careful not to forget to pick up your prize" are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. At this time, a sound announcing that the prize 50 has been returned is output to the speaker 6.

In FIG. 23(D), even if the area corresponding to "Exchange" is operated and then the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated, an image indicating that the prize 50 has been returned will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(F), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 23(E), the top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

In this way, if the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated after the prize 50 is inserted into the prize insertion section 3, an image indicating that the prize 50 has been returned is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2, and then the top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. This makes it possible to prevent the prize 50 from being forgotten to be taken.

(Animation when checking points)
Next, the animation when checking the points will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 24(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(B), when the area corresponding to "Confirm points" in FIG. 24(A) is operated, a two-dimensional code reading image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "two-dimensional code reading image" includes a text image saying "Please hold up the two-dimensional code," an animation image encouraging the user to hold up the two-dimensional code over the two-dimensional code reading unit 8, and an area corresponding to "Cancel."

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(C), when the two-dimensional code reader 8 reads the two-dimensional code in FIG. 24(B), a points confirmation image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "points confirmation image" includes information related to the name, information related to the points currently held, an area corresponding to "Print," an area corresponding to "Details," and an area corresponding to "End."

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(D), when the area corresponding to "details" in FIG. 24(C) is operated, a detailed image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "detailed image" includes information relating to the name, information relating to the update date, information relating to the shop, information relating to points, information relating to the expiration date, an area corresponding to "print", an area corresponding to the "up cursor", an area corresponding to the "down cursor", and an area corresponding to "end". Note that in FIG. 24(D), the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is inoperable, while the area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(E), when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" in FIG. 24(D) is operated, the detailed image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is updated.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(F), when the area corresponding to "End" in FIG. 24(E) is operated, the top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Product exchange animation)
Next, the animation that occurs when exchanging products will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 25(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(B), when the area corresponding to "product exchange" in FIG. 25(A) is operated, the two-dimensional code read image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(C), when the two-dimensional code in FIG. 25(B) is read by the two-dimensional code reader 8, a category selection image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "category selection image" includes areas corresponding to each category.

In FIG. 25(C), an area corresponding to "Books," an area corresponding to "Food," an area corresponding to "CDs and DVDs," an area corresponding to "Vouchers," an area corresponding to "Miscellaneous Goods," an area corresponding to "Game Points," an area corresponding to "Home Appliances," and an area corresponding to "All" are displayed, but areas corresponding to categories other than these may also be displayed.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(D), when the area corresponding to "all" is operated in FIG. 25(C), a product exchange image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "product exchange image" includes information related to the name, information related to the points currently held, an area related to the product corresponding to the selected category, an area corresponding to "sort", an area corresponding to the "up cursor", an area corresponding to the "down cursor", and an area corresponding to "end".

In FIG. 25(D), the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is inoperable, while the areas corresponding to the products in the selected category, the area corresponding to "sort," the area corresponding to the "down cursor," and the area corresponding to "end" are operable.

Here, in FIG. 25(D), an area corresponding to product A, an area corresponding to product B, and an area corresponding to product C are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 as areas corresponding to products in the selected category.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(E), when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" in FIG. 25(D) is operated, the product exchange image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is updated.

In FIG. 25(E), the area corresponding to the "down cursor" and part of the area relating to the products corresponding to the selected category (information relating to product Y and information relating to product Z) are inoperable, while part of the area relating to the products corresponding to the selected category (the area corresponding to product X), the area corresponding to "sort," the area corresponding to the "up cursor," and the area corresponding to "end" are operable.

The area corresponding to product Y and the area corresponding to product Z are inoperable because the points currently held are less than the points required to exchange them for the product.

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(F), when the area corresponding to "Product X" in FIG. 25(E) is operated, a product detail image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "product detail image" includes information related to the name, information related to the points currently held, information related to the product image, information related to the product description, information related to the number of points required to exchange for the selected product, an area corresponding to "Exchange," and an area corresponding to "Cancel."

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(G), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 25(F) is operated, a product confirmation image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "product confirmation image" includes a text image saying "Your points will be exchanged for a product. Are you sure?", information about the product to be exchanged, information about the points that will be in your possession after exchanging them for the product, an area corresponding to "Exchange", and an area corresponding to "Cancel".

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(H), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 25(G) is operated, a product exchange completion image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "product exchange completion image" is an image for notifying that the product exchange has been completed, and is, for example, a text image stating "Product exchange has been completed" as shown in FIG. 25(H).

Next, as shown in FIG. 25(I), after a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 25(H), the top menu image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Animation when operating categories)
Next, animations that occur when operating a category will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 26(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 26(B), when the area corresponding to "product exchange" in FIG. 26(A) is operated, the two-dimensional code read image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 26(C), when the two-dimensional code in FIG. 26(B) is read by the two-dimensional code reading unit 8, a category selection image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 26(D), when the area corresponding to "food" in FIG. 26(C) is operated, a product exchange image in the category of "food" is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Animation during sort operation)
Next, animation during a sorting operation will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 27(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 27(B), when the area corresponding to "product exchange" in FIG. 27(A) is operated, the two-dimensional code read image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 27(C), when the two-dimensional code in FIG. 27(B) is read by the two-dimensional code reading unit 8, a category selection image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 27(D), when the area corresponding to "all" in FIG. 27(C) is operated, a product exchange image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 27(E), when the area corresponding to "sort" in FIG. 27(D) is operated, a sort image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "sort image" includes information related to the name, information related to the points currently possessed, an area corresponding to "low points order" in ascending order of points required to exchange for a product, an area corresponding to "high points order" in ascending order of points required to exchange for a product, an area corresponding to "popularity order" in descending order of the number of exchanges, an area corresponding to "release date order" in order of new products sold on the market, an area corresponding to "registration date (newest) order" in order of new registration in the product management DB 302, and an area corresponding to "registration date (oldest) order" in order of registration in the product management DB 302.

Next, as shown in FIG. 27(F), when the area corresponding to "Points (highest)" in FIG. 27(E) is operated, the product exchange images displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 are sorted in descending order of the points required to exchange them for products.

(Animation when checking a product)
Next, the animation displayed when checking a product will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 28(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 28(B), when the area corresponding to "Product Confirmation" in FIG. 28(A) is operated, a category selection image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 28(C), when the area corresponding to "Vouchers" is operated in FIG. 28(B), a product list image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "product list image" includes an area related to products corresponding to the selected category, an area corresponding to "Sort", an area corresponding to the "Up Cursor", an area corresponding to the "Down Cursor", and an area corresponding to "End".

Next, as shown in FIG. 28(D), a product introduction image corresponding to "Product X" in FIG. 28(C) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "product introduction image" includes information related to the product image, information related to the product description, and an area corresponding to "End."

Next, as shown in FIG. 28(E), when the area corresponding to "End" in FIG. 28(D) is operated, the top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Animation when registering as a member)
Next, the animation that appears when registering as a member will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 29(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 29(B), when the area corresponding to "member registration" in FIG. 29(A) is operated, an image for member registration operation is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "image for member registration operation" includes an animation image of paper (receipt) being discharged from the paper discharge port 7 and a text image saying "Please take your receipt."

Next, as shown in FIG. 29(C), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 29(B), the top menu image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 29(D), when the mobile terminal P reads the two-dimensional code printed on the paper (receipt) for member registration discharged from the paper discharge port 7, it connects to the member management server 101 via the Internet. At this time, the member registration image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

As shown in FIG. 29(D), the "member registration image" includes areas for inputting information related to the name, an area for inputting information related to the address, an area for inputting information related to the phone number, an area for inputting information related to the email address, an area for inputting information related to the age, an area for inputting information related to the gender, an area for inputting information related to the password, and an area corresponding to "Done" which becomes operable after these items have been input, and an area corresponding to "Cancel." Note that if the area corresponding to "Done" is operable, it is displayed in white, and if it is not operable, it is displayed in gray.

Next, as shown in FIG. 29(E), when information relating to the name, address, telephone number, email address, age, gender, and password is entered in FIG. 29(D), the area corresponding to "Complete" becomes operable.

In FIG. 29(D), if the entered information does not satisfy the predetermined conditions and the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, an error image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. For example, if information other than numbers is entered in the area for entering information related to a telephone number, the error image shown in FIG. 29(G) will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 29(F), when the area corresponding to "Complete" in FIG. 29(E) is operated, a member registration completion image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "member registration completion image" is an image that notifies the user that member registration has been completed, and is, for example, a text image that reads "Thank you for registering," as shown in FIG. 29(F).

When the area corresponding to "cancel" is operated in FIG. 29(D) or FIG. 29(E), a cancel image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "cancel image" is an image for notifying that the membership registration has been cancelled, and is, for example, a text image stating "Your membership registration has been cancelled" as shown in FIG. 29(H).

(Animation when updating member information)
Next, the animation that occurs when updating member information will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 30(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 30(B), when the area corresponding to "member information update" in FIG. 30(A) is operated, an image for use when performing member information update operation is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "image for use when performing member information update operation" includes an animation image of paper (receipt) being ejected from the paper ejection slot 7 and a text image that reads "Please take your receipt."

Next, as shown in FIG. 30(C), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 30(B), the top menu image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 30 (D), when the mobile terminal P reads the two-dimensional code for updating the member information printed on the paper (receipt) discharged from the paper discharge port 7, it connects to the member management server 101 via the Internet. At this time, a member information update image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

As shown in FIG. 30 (D), the "member information update image" includes areas for inputting information related to the name, an area for inputting information related to the address, an area for inputting information related to the phone number, an area for inputting information related to the email address, an area for inputting information related to the age, an area for inputting information related to the gender, an area for inputting information related to the password, and an area corresponding to "Done" which becomes operable after these items have been input, and an area corresponding to "Cancel." Note that the area corresponding to "Done" is displayed in white if it is operable, and is displayed in gray if it is not operable.

As shown in FIG. 30 (D), the information stored in the member management DB 102 is displayed by default based on the terminal identification information of the mobile terminal P. Then, when any of the information related to the name, address, telephone number, email address, age, gender, or password is updated, the area corresponding to "Complete" becomes operable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 30(E), when at least some of the information relating to name, address, telephone number, email address, age, gender, and password is updated in FIG. 30(D), the area corresponding to "Complete" becomes operable.

In FIG. 30(D), if the updated information does not satisfy the predetermined conditions and the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, an error image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. For example, if information other than numbers is entered in the area for entering information related to a telephone number, the error image shown in FIG. 30(G) will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 30(F), when the area corresponding to "Complete" in FIG. 30(E) is operated, a member information update completion image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "member information update completion image" is an image that notifies the user that the member information update has been completed, and is, for example, a text image stating "Member information has been updated," as shown in FIG. 30(F).

When the area corresponding to "cancel" is operated in Figure 30 (D) or Figure 30 (E), an update cancellation image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "update cancellation image" is an image for notifying that the update of the member information has been canceled, and is, for example, a text image stating "The update of the member information has been canceled" as shown in Figure 30 (H).

(Transition of processing during point exchange operation and point confirmation operation)
Next, the transition of the process during a point exchange operation and the process during a point confirmation operation will be described with reference to FIG.

(Transition of processing during point exchange operation)
First, the transition of processing during a point exchange operation will be described.

First, the point exchange device 1 performs the point exchange information transmission process in step S6-16. This causes the point exchange information to be transmitted from the point exchange device 1 to the point management server 401.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives the point exchange information from the point exchange device 1, the point management server 401 performs a process of storing the point exchange information received from the point exchange device 1 by a point exchange information storage process in step S405. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the point ID storage area 402a, the update date and time storage area 402b, the shop storage area 402c, the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the updated point storage area 402g, and the security code storage area 402i.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs the security code reception process in step S6-17. This causes the point exchange device 1 to request the point management server 401 to send a security code.

Then, when a request to send a security code is made from the point exchange device 1, the point management server 401 transmits information related to the security code stored in the security code storage area 402i to the point exchange device 1 through a security code transmission process in step S407.

Then, upon receiving information related to the security code from the point management server 401, the point exchange device 1 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code for point exchange in step S6-18. This results in a process of generating a two-dimensional code containing information related to the URL for accessing the point management server 401, more specifically, information related to the URL for carrying out the procedure to exchange for points, information related to the number of points to be exchanged, and information related to the security code received in the security code reception process in step S6-17.

After the point exchange two-dimensional code generation process in step S6-18 is performed, the point exchange device 1 performs a process of displaying an exchange receipt issuance image (see FIG. 22(E)) on the liquid crystal display device 2 to notify the user that a paper (receipt) for exchanging the prize 50 for points will be issued.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs the exchange receipt issuing process in step S6-20 to print the two-dimensional code generated in the point exchange two-dimensional code generation process in step S6-18 on a piece of paper (receipt), and ejects the printed paper (receipt) from the paper ejection port 7.

Then, the mobile terminal P connects to the point management server 401 via the Internet by reading the two-dimensional code printed on the discharged paper (receipt). Then, a point addition image (see FIG. 22(G)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Then, when the point addition image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P, after the name information and password information are entered, if the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, the mobile device P transmits the name and password information to the point management server 401.

Here, "name and password information" includes information related to the entered name, password, and security code.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives the name and password information from the mobile device P, it performs the point allocation authentication process in step S409. This causes the name and password information to be sent to the member management server 101.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives the name information and password information from the mobile device P, it performs the member authentication process in step S106. As a result, it determines whether the name and password information received by the point management server 401 from the mobile device P matches the information registered as a member.

Then, after performing the member authentication process in step S106, the member management server 101 performs the member authentication result information transmission process in step S107. As a result, the member authentication result information is transmitted to the point management server 401.

Then, the point management server 401 receives information from the member management server 101 that the user has been authenticated as a member, and when the authentication is complete (step S410 = YES), it performs the point addition process in step S411. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the point ID storage area 402a, the update date and time storage area 402b, the shop storage area 402c, the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the point management DB member ID storage area 402e, the member name storage area 402f, the updated point storage area 402g, and the expiration date storage area 402h of the point management DB 402.

Then, after the point addition process in step S411, the point management server 401 performs the process of receiving the member information to which the email is to be sent in step S412. As a result, the point management server 401 makes a request to the member management server 101 to send the member information to which the email is to be sent.

Here, the "email sending target member information" includes at least information related to the member's email address stored in the email address storage area 102f.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives a request from the point management server 401 to send the email to the target member, the member management server 101 performs the member information sending process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 sends the member information to which the email is to be sent to the point management server 401.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives the member information to which the email is to be sent from the member management server 101, it performs the point addition email sending process in step S413. This causes the point addition email to be sent to the member.

Here, the point management server 401 transmits to the mobile device P the information necessary to display the point exchange completion image on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

At this time, if the points purchased by the wholesaler from the point association are about to sell out, an email containing information that the points are about to sell out may be sent to the wholesaler or shop.

(Transition of processing when checking points)
Next, the transition of the process during the point confirmation operation will be described.

First, the point exchange device 1 performs the member information reception process in step S8-5. As a result, the point exchange device 1 makes a member information transmission request to the member management server 101.

Then, when a member information transmission request is received from the point exchange device 1, the member management server 101 performs a member information transmission process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 transmits the member information to the point exchange device 1.

Then, after receiving the member information from the member management server 101, the point exchange device 1 performs the point information reception process in step S8-6. As a result, the point exchange device 1 makes a point information transmission request to the point management server 401.

Then, when a point information transmission request is received from the point exchange device 1, the point management server 401 performs a point information transmission process in step S417. As a result, the point management server 401 transmits the point information to the point exchange device 1.

Then, after receiving the point information from the point management server 401, the point exchange device 1 performs a point confirmation image display process in step S8-7. As a result, a point confirmation image (see FIG. 24(C)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the member information received in the member information reception process in step S8-5 and the member information received in the point information reception process in step S8-6.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs a detailed image display process in step S8-12. This causes a detailed image (see FIG. 24(D)) to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the member information received in the member information reception process in step S8-5 and the member information received in the point information reception process in step S8-6.

(Transition of Product Exchange Operation Process and Product Confirmation Operation Process)
Next, the transition of the process at the time of a product exchange operation and the process at the time of a product confirmation operation will be described with reference to FIG.

(Transition of processing during product exchange operation)
First, the transition of the process during a product exchange operation will be described.

The point exchange device 1 performs the member information reception process in step S10-5. As a result, the point exchange device 1 makes a member information transmission request to the member management server 101.

Then, when a member information transmission request is received from the point exchange device 1, the member management server 101 performs a member information transmission process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 transmits the member information to the point exchange device 1.

Then, after receiving the member information from the member management server 101, the point exchange device 1 performs a point information reception process in step S10-6. As a result, the point exchange device 1 makes a point information transmission request to the point management server 401.

Then, when a point information transmission request is received from the point exchange device 1, the point management server 401 performs a point information transmission process in step S417. As a result, the point management server 401 transmits the point information to the point exchange device 1.

Then, after receiving the point information from the point management server 401, the point exchange device 1 performs the product information reception process in step S10-7. As a result, the point exchange device 1 makes a product information transmission request to the product management server 301.

Then, when a product information transmission request is received from the point exchange device 1, the product management server 301 performs a product information transmission process in step S308. As a result, the product management server 301 transmits the product information to the point exchange device 1.

Then, after receiving the product information from the product management server 301, the point exchange device 1 performs a category selection image display process in step S10-8. As a result, a category selection image (see FIG. 25(C)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the member information received in the member information reception process in step S10-5, the member information received in the point information reception process in step S10-6, and the product information received in the product information reception process in step S10-7.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs the product exchange information transmission process in step S10-23. As a result, the point exchange device 1 transmits the product exchange information to the purchase management server 201.

Then, when the purchasing management server 201 receives product exchange information from the point exchange device 1, it performs a product exchange information registration process in step S202. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the purchasing ID memory area 202a, the purchase date memory area 202b, the exchange device ID memory area 202c, the purchaser memory area 202d, the purchased product memory area 202e, the scheduled shipping date memory area 202f, the shipping destination memory area 202g, and the purchasing member phone number memory area 202h of the purchasing management DB 202.

Then, after the product exchange information registration process in step S202, the purchasing management server 201 performs the product exchange completion information transmission process in step S203. As a result, the purchasing management server 201 transmits the product exchange completion information to the product management server 301.

Then, when the product management server 301 receives the product exchange completion information from the purchasing management server 201, it performs the inventory quantity subtraction process in step S302. As a result, "1" is subtracted from the value stored in the inventory quantity storage area 302f of the purchasing management DB 202.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs the point subtraction information transmission process in step S10-24. As a result, the point exchange device 1 transmits the point subtraction information to the point management server 401.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives point subtraction information from the point exchange device 1, it performs processing at the time of receiving the point subtraction information in step S415. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the point ID storage area 402a, the update date and time storage area 402b, the shop storage area 402c, the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the point management DB member ID storage area 402e, the member name storage area 402f, and the updated point storage area 402g.

Then, after the point subtraction information transmission process in step S10-24 is performed, the point exchange device 1 performs the product exchange completion image display process in step S10-25. As a result, the product exchange completion image (see FIG. 25(H)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Transition of process when checking product)
Next, the transition of the process during the product confirmation operation will be described.

The point exchange device 1 performs the product information reception process in step S12-1. As a result, the point exchange device 1 makes a product information transmission request to the product management server 301.

Then, when a product information transmission request is received from the point exchange device 1, the product management server 301 performs a product information transmission process in step S308. As a result, the product management server 301 transmits the product information to the point exchange device 1.

Then, after receiving the product information from the product management server 301, the point exchange device 1 performs a category selection image display process in step S12-2. As a result, a category selection image (see FIG. 28(B)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 based on the product information received by the product information reception process in step S12-1.

(Transition of processing during member registration operation and member information update operation)
Next, the transition of the member registration process and the member information update process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Processing transition during member registration operation)
First, the transition of processes during member registration will be described.

First, the point exchange device 1 performs a two-dimensional code printing process for member registration in step S14-3. As a result, the point exchange device 1 prints the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation process for member registration in step S14-2 on a piece of paper (receipt), and ejects the printed paper (receipt) from the paper ejection port 7.

Then, the mobile terminal P connects to the member management server 101 via the Internet by reading the two-dimensional code printed on the discharged paper (receipt). Then, a point addition image (see FIG. 22(G)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

When the point addition image (see FIG. 22(G)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P, the member registration information is input and the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, and the member registration information is transmitted.

Here, "member registration information" refers to information regarding the entered name, address, telephone number, email address, age, gender, and password.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives the member registration information from the mobile device P, it performs the member registration information reception process of step S102. As a result, each piece of information is stored in each of the following areas: member ID storage area 102a, name storage area 102b, address storage area 102c, terminal identification information storage area 102d, phone number storage area 102e, email address storage area 102f, password storage area 102g, age storage area 102h, and gender storage area 102i.

(Processing transition when member information is updated)
Next, the transition of processing when a member information updating operation is performed will be described.

First, the point exchange device 1 performs a two-dimensional code printing process for updating member information in step S16-3. This causes the two-dimensional code generated in the two-dimensional code generation process for updating member information in step S16-2 to be printed on paper (receipt), and the printed paper (receipt) is then discharged from the paper discharge port 7.

Then, the mobile terminal P connects to the member management server 101 via the Internet by reading the two-dimensional code printed on the discharged paper (receipt). Then, a member information update image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Then, when the member information update image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P, the member registration information is updated and the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, the member update information is transmitted.

Specifically, the updated information regarding the name, address, telephone number, email address, age, gender, and password is sent from the mobile device P to the member management server 101.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives the member update information from the mobile device P, it performs the member update information reception process of step S104. As a result, the information is updated and stored in each of the following areas: member ID storage area 102a, name storage area 102b, address storage area 102c, terminal identification information storage area 102d, phone number storage area 102e, email address storage area 102f, password storage area 102g, age storage area 102h, and gender storage area 102i.

Second Embodiment
Next, the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 34 to 53. In describing the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be described, and descriptions of commonalities will be omitted.

(Systems Constituting the Product Exchange System in the Second Embodiment)
Next, each system constituting the product exchange system in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The product exchange system in the second embodiment, like the product exchange system in the first embodiment, is composed of a points exchange device 1, a mobile terminal P, a member management system 100, a purchase management system 200, a product management system 300, and a points management system 400.

The difference between the product exchange system in the first embodiment and the product exchange system in the second embodiment is that an application is installed on the mobile terminal P to exchange points for products.

(Main Processing in the Point Exchange Device 1 in the Second Embodiment)
Next, the main processing in the point exchange device 1 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S1001)
In step S1001, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the power is turned on. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the power is turned on by the power supply unit 18. If it is determined that the power is turned on (step S1001=YES), the process proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power is not turned on (step S1001=NO), the process proceeds to step S1003.

(Step S1002)
In step S1002, the CPU 11 performs a top menu display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a top menu image on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S1002 ends, the process proceeds to step S1009.

Here, in the second embodiment, the top menu image has an area corresponding to "point exchange" and an area corresponding to "language" that can be operated.

(Step S1003)
In step S1003, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the device is booting up. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not the power supply unit 18 has turned on the power supply. If it is determined that the device is booting up (step S1003=YES), the process proceeds to step S1004. On the other hand, if it is determined that the device is not booting up (step S1003=NO), the process proceeds to step S1009.

(Step S1004)
In step S1004, the CPU 11 performs a top menu display process. Specifically, similar to step S1002, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a top menu image on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S1004 ends, the process proceeds to step S1005.

(Step S1005)
In step S1005, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a "point exchange" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "point exchange" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "point exchange" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of judging whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "point exchange" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is judged that the "point exchange" operation has been performed (step S1005=YES), the process proceeds to step S1006. On the other hand, when it is judged that the "point exchange" operation has not been performed (step S1005=NO), the process proceeds to step S1007.

(Step S1006)
In step S1006, the CPU 11 performs the point exchange operation process described with reference to Fig. 12. In this process, the CPU 11 performs a process for exchanging the prize for points. Then, when the process of step S1006 ends, the process proceeds to step S1009.
(Step S1007)
In step S1007, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a "language" operation has been performed. Here, when an area corresponding to "language" in the top menu image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 is operated, the touch panel sensor 2a transmits a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "language" has been operated to the control board 10. That is, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "language" has been operated has been received from the touch panel sensor 2a. Then, when it is determined that the "language" operation has been performed (step S1007=YES), the process proceeds to step S1008. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "language" operation has not been performed (step S1007=NO), the process proceeds to step S1009.

(Step S1008)
In step S1008, the CPU 11 performs a language switching process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to switch the language displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the process of step S1008 ends, the process proceeds to step S1009.

As in the first embodiment, the point exchange device 1 in the second embodiment is capable of switching between Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, but is not limited to this and may be capable of switching between other languages.

(Step S1009)
In step S1009, the CPU 11 performs a crime prevention process. Specifically, when the prize read by the prize reading unit 15 is a counterfeit or when the door unit 9a is opened, the CPU 11 performs a process of photographing the prize by the camera 5. Then, when the process of step S1009 ends, the main process in the point exchange device 1 ends and the process proceeds to step S1001.

(Main Processing in the Portable Terminal P)
Next, the main processing in the portable terminal P will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2001)
In step S2001, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not it is time for starting up an application. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not it is time for starting up an application installed in the mobile terminal P. If it is determined that it is time for starting up an application (step S2001=YES), the process proceeds to step S2002. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not time for starting up an application (step S2001=NO), the process proceeds to step S2003.

(Step S2002)
In step S2002, the CPU 11 performs an application top menu display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying an application top menu screen on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2002 ends, the process proceeds to step S2003.

(Step S2003)
In step S2003, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an application is running. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an application installed in the portable terminal P is running. Then, if it is determined that the application is running (step S2003=YES), the process proceeds to step S2004. On the other hand, if it is determined that the application is not running (step S2003=NO), the main process in the portable terminal P is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2004)
In step S2004, the CPU 11 performs an application top menu display process. Specifically, similar to step S2002, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying an application top menu screen on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2004 ends, the process proceeds to step S2005.

(Step S2005)
In step S2005, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not a "point check" operation has been performed. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal has been received from the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to "point check." If it is determined that a "point check" operation has been performed (step S2005=YES), the process proceeds to step S2006. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "point check" operation has not been performed (step S2005=NO), the process proceeds to step S2007.

(Step S2006)
In step S2006, the portable terminal P performs a process at the time of a point confirmation operation, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 37. In this process, the portable terminal P performs a process for displaying the points currently possessed on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2006 ends, the main process in the portable terminal P ends, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2007)
In step S2007, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "product exchange" operation has been performed. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that an operation on an area corresponding to "product exchange" has been performed has been received by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P. Then, if it is determined that the "product exchange" operation has been performed (step S2007=YES), the process proceeds to step S2008. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "product exchange" operation has not been performed (step S2007=NO), the process proceeds to step S2009.

(Step S2008)
In step S2008, the CPU 11 performs a product exchange operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 38. In this process, the portable terminal P performs a process for exchanging points for a product. Then, when the process of step S2008 ends, the main process in the portable terminal P ends, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2009)
In step S2009, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "product check" operation has been performed. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal has been received from the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to "product check." Then, if it is determined that the "product check" operation has been performed (step S2009=YES), the process proceeds to step S2010. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "product check" operation has not been performed (step S2009=NO), the process proceeds to step S2011.

(Step S2010)
In step S2010, the portable terminal P performs a product confirmation operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 39. In this process, the portable terminal P performs a process for displaying products that can be exchanged for points. Then, when the process of step S2010 ends, the main process in the portable terminal P ends, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2011)
In step S2011, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not a "member registration" operation has been performed. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not a signal has been received from the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to "member registration." If it is determined that a "member registration" operation has been performed (step S2011=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "member registration" operation has not been performed (step S2011=NO), the process proceeds to step S2013.

(Step S2012)
In step S2012, the portable terminal P performs a member registration operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 40. In this process, the portable terminal P performs processes necessary for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012 ends, the main process in the portable terminal P ends, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2013)
In step S2013, the mobile device P performs a process to determine whether or not an operation for "update member information" has been performed. Specifically, the mobile device P performs a process to determine whether or not a signal indicating that an operation for "update member information" has been performed has been received from the touch panel sensor of the mobile device P. Then, if it is determined that an operation for "update member information" has been performed (step S2013=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation for "update member information" has not been performed (step S2013=NO), the process proceeds to step S2015.

(Step S2014)
In step S2014, the portable terminal P performs a member information update operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 41. In this process, the portable terminal P performs a process to update the registered member information. Then, when the process of step S2014 ends, the main process in the portable terminal P ends, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2015)
In step S2015, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an operation on the "two-dimensional code" has been performed. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that an operation on the area corresponding to the "two-dimensional code" has been performed has been received by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P. Then, if it is determined that an operation on the "two-dimensional code" has been performed (step S2015=YES), the process proceeds to step S2016. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation on the "two-dimensional code" has not been performed (step S2015=NO), the process proceeds to step S2017.

(Step S2016)
In step S2016, the portable terminal P performs a two-dimensional code operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 42. In this process, the portable terminal P performs a process of displaying the two-dimensional code on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2016 ends, the main process in the portable terminal P ends, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2017)
In step S2017, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an operation for "adding points" has been performed. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that an operation for "adding points" has been performed has been received from the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P. Then, if it is determined that an operation for "adding points" has been performed (step S2017=YES), the process proceeds to step S2018. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation for "adding points" has not been performed (step S2017=NO), the main process in the portable terminal P is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Step S2018)
In step S2018, the portable terminal P performs a point addition operation process, which will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 43. In this process, the portable terminal P performs a process for adding points. Then, when the process of step S2018 ends, the main process in the portable terminal P ends, and the process is executed again from step S2001.

(Point confirmation operation processing in the second embodiment)
Next, the point confirmation operation process in the second embodiment, which is performed in step S2006 of the main process in the portable terminal P, will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2006-1)
In step S2006-1, mobile terminal P performs a member information receiving process. Specifically, mobile terminal P performs a process to request member management server 101 to send member information stored in member management DB 102, and performs a process to receive the member information from member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S2006-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S2006-2.

(Step S2006-2)
In step S2006-2, the mobile terminal P performs a point information receiving process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of requesting point management server 401 to transmit point information stored in point management DB 402 based on the member information received in the member information receiving process in step S2006-1, and performs a process of receiving point information corresponding to the member information from point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S2006-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S2006-3.

(Step S2006-3)
In step S2006-3, the portable terminal P performs a point confirmation screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process to display a point confirmation screen (see FIG. 44(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P based on the point information corresponding to the member information received by the point information reception process in step S2006-2. Then, when the process of step S2006-3 ends, the process proceeds to step S2006-4.

(Step S2006-4)
In step S2006-4, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an "end" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that an "end" operation has been performed (step S2006-4=YES), the subroutine of the point confirmation operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that an "end" operation has not been performed (step S2006-4=NO), the process proceeds to step S2006-5.

(Step S2006-5)
In step S2006-5, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "details" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "details" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "details" operation has been performed (step S2006-5=YES), the process proceeds to step S2006-6. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "details" operation has not been performed (step S2006-5=NO), the process proceeds to step S2006-4.

(Step S2006-6)
In step S2006-6, the portable terminal P performs a details screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process to display a details screen (see FIG. 44(C)) on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2006-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S2006-7.

(Step S2006-7)
In step S2006-7, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "cursor" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "cursor" has been operated (step S2006-7=YES), the process proceeds to step S2006-8. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "cursor" has not been operated (step S2006-7=NO), the process proceeds to step S2006-9.

(Step S2006-8)
In step S2006-8, the mobile terminal P performs a process of updating the display of the detailed screen. Specifically, when the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is operated, the mobile terminal P performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P of the detailed screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P in response to the operation of the "up cursor", and when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operated, the mobile terminal P performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P of the detailed screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P in response to the operation of the "down cursor". Then, when the process of step S2006-8 is completed, the process proceeds to step S2006-7.

(Step S2006-9)
In step S2006-9, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an "end" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that an "end" operation has been performed (step S2006-9=YES), the subroutine of the point confirmation operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that an "end" operation has not been performed (step S2006-9=NO), the process proceeds to step S2006-7.

(Product exchange operation processing in the second embodiment)
Next, the product exchange operation process in the second embodiment, which is performed in step S2008 of the main process on the mobile terminal P, will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2008-1)
In step S2008-1, mobile terminal P performs a member information receiving process. Specifically, mobile terminal P performs a process to request member management server 101 to send member information stored in member management DB 102, and performs a process to receive the member information from member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S2008-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-2.

(Step S2008-2)
In step S2008-2, the mobile terminal P performs a point information receiving process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of requesting point management server 401 to transmit point information stored in point management DB 402 based on the member information received in the member information receiving process in step S2008-1, and performs a process of receiving point information corresponding to the member information from point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S2008-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-3.

(Step S2008-3)
In step S2008-3, the mobile terminal P performs a product information receiving process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of requesting the product management server 301 to transmit the product information stored in the product management DB 302, and performs a process of receiving the product information from the product management server 301. Then, when the process of step S2008-3 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-4.

(Step S2008-4)
In step S2008-4, the CPU 11 performs a category selection screen display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a category selection screen (see FIG. 45(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P based on the product information received in the product information reception process in step S2008-3. Then, when the process of step S2008-4 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-5.

(Step S2008-5)
In step S2008-5, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "Category" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to "Category" is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that a "Category" operation has been performed (step S2008-5=YES), the process proceeds to step S2008-6. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "Category" operation has not been performed (step S2008-5=NO), the process of step S2008-5 is repeated until a "Category" operation is performed.

(Step S2008-6)
In step S2008-6, the portable terminal P performs a product exchange screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process to display a product exchange screen (see FIG. 45(C)) on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P based on the member information received in the member information reception process in step S2008-1, the point information received in the point information reception process in step S2008-2, the product information received in the product information reception process in step S2008-3, and the "category" operated in the process in step S2008-5. Then, when the process in step S2008-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-7.

(Step S2008-7)
In step S2008-7, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "sort" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P indicating that the area corresponding to "sort" has been operated, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "sort" operation has been performed (step S2008-7=YES), the process proceeds to step S2008-8. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "sort" operation has not been performed (step S2008-7=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-9.

(Step S2008-8)
In step S2008-8, the portable terminal P performs a process at the time of a sorting operation. Specifically, the portable terminal P first performs a process of displaying a sorting screen on which a plurality of sorting conditions are displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Next, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "sorting conditions" on the sorting screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P have been operated, and if the "sorting conditions" have been operated, performs a process of sorting the product screens displayed on the product exchange screen based on the operated "sorting conditions". Then, when the process of step S2008-8 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-7.

(Step S2008-9)
In step S2008-9, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "cursor" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "cursor" has been operated (step S2008-9=YES), the process proceeds to step S2008-10. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "cursor" has not been operated (step S2008-9=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-11.

(Step S2008-10)
In step S2008-10, the mobile terminal P performs a product exchange screen update process. Specifically, when an area corresponding to the "up cursor" is operated, the mobile terminal P performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P on the product exchange screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P in response to the operation of the "up cursor", and when an area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operated, the mobile terminal P performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P on the product exchange screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P in response to the operation of the "down cursor". Then, when the process of step S2008-10 is completed, the process proceeds to step S2008-7.

(Step S2008-11)
In step S2008-11, the CPU 11 performs a process of determining whether or not an "end" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that an "end" operation has been performed (step S2008-11=YES), the subroutine of the product exchange operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that an "end" operation has not been performed (step S2008-11=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-12.

(Step S2008-12)
In step S2008-12, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an operation on the "product" has been performed. Specifically, a signal is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to the "product", and the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that an operation on the "product" has been performed (step S2008-12=YES), the process proceeds to step S2008-13. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation on the "product" has not been performed (step S2008-12=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-7.

(Step S2008-13)
In step S2008-13, the mobile terminal P performs a product details screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to display a product details screen (see FIG. 45(D)) corresponding to the "product" operated in the process of step S2008-12 on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2008-13 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-14.

(Step S2008-14)
In step S2008-14, the portable terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has been performed (step S2008-14=YES), the subroutine of the product exchange operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S2008-14=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-15.

(Step S2008-15)
In step S2008-15, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an "exchange" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an operation on the area corresponding to "exchange" has been performed is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that an "exchange" operation has been performed (step S2008-15=YES), the process proceeds to step S2008-16. On the other hand, if it is determined that an "exchange" operation has not been performed (step S2008-15=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-14.

(Step S2008-16)
In step S2008-16, the mobile terminal P performs a product exchange confirmation screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to display a product confirmation screen (see FIG. 45(E)) corresponding to the "exchange" operation performed in the process of step S2008-15 on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2008-16 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-17.

(Step S2008-17)
In step S2008-17, the portable terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has been performed (step S2008-17=YES), the subroutine of the product exchange operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main processing in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S2008-17=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-18.

(Step S2008-18)
In step S2008-18, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an "exchange" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an operation on the area corresponding to "exchange" has been performed is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that an "exchange" operation has been performed (step S2008-18=YES), the process proceeds to step S2008-19. On the other hand, if it is determined that an "exchange" operation has not been performed (step S2008-18=NO), the process proceeds to step S2008-17.

(Step S2008-19)
In step S2008-19, the mobile terminal P performs a product exchange information transmission process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of transmitting the product exchange information to the purchase management server 201. Then, when the process of step S2008-19 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-20.

(Step S2008-20)
In step S2008-20, the portable terminal P performs a point subtraction information transmission process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of transmitting point subtraction information to the point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S2008-20 ends, the process proceeds to step S2008-21.

(Step S2008-21)
In step S2008-21, the mobile terminal P performs a product exchange completion screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of displaying a product exchange completion screen (see FIG. 45(F)) for notifying the user that the product exchange has been completed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2008-21 ends, the subroutine of the product exchange operation process in the second embodiment ends, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the mobile terminal P.

(Product confirmation operation processing in the second embodiment)
Next, the product confirmation operation process in the second embodiment, which is performed in step S2010 of the main process in the mobile terminal P, will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2010-1)
In step S2010-1, the mobile terminal P performs a product information receiving process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of requesting the product management server 301 to transmit the product information stored in the product management DB 302, and performs a process of receiving the product information from the product management server 301. Then, when the process of step S2010-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S2010-2.

(Step S2010-2)
In step S2010-2, the portable terminal P performs a category selection screen display process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of displaying a category selection screen (see FIG. 46(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P based on the product information received in the product information reception process in step S2010-1. Then, when the process of step S2010-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S2010-3.

(Step S2010-3)
In step S2010-3, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "Category" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to "Category" is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that a "Category" operation has been performed (step S2010-3=YES), the process proceeds to step S2010-4. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "Category" operation has not been performed (step S2010-3=NO), the process of step S2010-3 is repeated until a "Category" operation is performed.

(Step S2010-4)
In step S2010-4, the mobile terminal P performs a product list screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to display a product list screen (see FIG. 46(C)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P based on the product information received in the product information reception process in step S2010-1 and the "category" operated in the process of step S2010-3. Then, when the process of step S2010-4 ends, the process proceeds to step S2010-5.

(Step S2010-5)
In step S2010-5, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "sort" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "sort" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "sort" operation has been performed (step S2010-5=YES), the process proceeds to step S2010-6. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "sort" operation has not been performed (step S2010-5=NO), the process proceeds to step S2010-7.

(Step S2010-6)
In step S2010-6, the portable terminal P performs a process at the time of a sort operation. Specifically, the portable terminal P first performs a process of displaying a sort screen on the liquid crystal display device 2, on which a plurality of sort conditions are displayed. Next, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "sort conditions" on the sort screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P have been operated, and if the "sort conditions" have been operated, performs a process of sorting the product images displayed on the product list screen based on the operated "sort conditions". Then, when the process of step S2010-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S2010-5.

(Step S2010-7)
In step S2010-7, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "cursor" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to the "cursor" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "cursor" has been operated (step S2010-7=YES), the process proceeds to step S2010-8. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "cursor" has not been operated (step S2010-7=NO), the process proceeds to step S2010-9.

(Step S2010-8)
In step S2010-8, the mobile terminal P performs a product list screen update process. Specifically, when the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is operated, the mobile terminal P performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P on the product list screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P in response to the operation of the area corresponding to the "up cursor", and when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operated, the mobile terminal P performs a process of updating the display of the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P on the product list screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P in response to the operation of the "down cursor". Then, when the process of step S2010-8 is completed, the process proceeds to step S2010-5.

(Step S2010-9)
In step S2010-9, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an "end" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "end" operation has been performed (step S2010-9=YES), the subroutine of the product confirmation operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "end" operation has not been performed (step S2010-9=NO), the process proceeds to step S2010-10.

(Step S2010-10)
In step S2010-10, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an operation on the "product" has been performed. Specifically, a signal is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to the "product", and the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that an operation on the "product" has been performed (step S2010-10=YES), the process proceeds to step S2010-11. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation on the "product" has not been performed (step S2010-10=NO), the process proceeds to step S2010-5.

(Step S2010-11)
In step S2010-11, the mobile terminal P performs a product introduction screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of displaying a product introduction screen (see FIG. 46(D)) corresponding to the "product" operated by the process of step S2010-11 on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2010-11 ends, the process proceeds to step S2010-12.

(Step S2010-12)
In step S2010-12, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not an "end" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "end" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P, and the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that the "end" operation has been performed (step S2010-12=YES), the subroutine of the product confirmation operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main processing in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "end" operation has not been performed (step S2010-12=NO), the process of step S2010-12 is repeated until the "end" operation is performed.

(Member registration operation processing in the second embodiment)
Next, the member registration operation process in the second embodiment, which is performed in step S2012 of the main process in the mobile terminal P, will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2012-1)
In step S2012-1, the mobile terminal P performs a member information input screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to display a member information input screen (see FIG. 47(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2012-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-2.

Here, the "member information input screen" includes a "name input field" for inputting a name, an "address input field" for inputting an address, a "phone number input field" for inputting a phone number, an "email address input field" for inputting an email address, an "age input field" for inputting an age, a "gender input field" for inputting a gender, a "password input field" for inputting a password, an area corresponding to "cancel," and an area corresponding to "complete."

(Step S2012-2)
In step S2012-2, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an area corresponding to "cancel" has been operated is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, and the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has been performed (step S2012-2=YES), the subroutine of the member registration operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the mobile terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S2012-2=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-3.

(Step S2012-3)
In step S2012-3, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "name input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "name input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "name input field" has been operated (step S2012-3=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "name input field" has not been operated (step S2012-3=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-5.

(Step S2012-4)
In step S2012-4, the mobile terminal P performs a name information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input name information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012-4 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-5.

(Step S2012-5)
In step S2012-5, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "address input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "address input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "address input field" has been operated (step S2012-5=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-6. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "address input field" has not been operated (step S2012-5=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-7.

(Step S2012-6)
In step S2012-6, the mobile terminal P performs an address information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input address information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-7.

(Step S2012-7)
In step S2012-7, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "phone number input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "phone number input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "phone number input field" has been operated (step S2012-7=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-8. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "phone number input field" has not been operated (step S2012-7=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-9.

(Step S2012-8)
In step S2012-8, the mobile terminal P performs a process of inputting phone number information. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of inputting phone number information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012-8 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-9.

(Step S2012-9)
In step S2012-9, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the "email address input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "email address input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "email address input field" has been operated (step S2012-9=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-10. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "email address input field" has not been operated (step S2012-9=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-11.

(Step S2012-10)
In step S2012-10, the mobile terminal P performs an email address information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input email address information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012-10 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-11.

(Step S2012-11)
In step S2012-11, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "age input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "age input field" of the membership information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "age input field" has been operated (step S2012-11=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-12. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "age input field" has not been operated (step S2012-11=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-13.

(Step S2012-12)
In step S2012-12, the mobile terminal P performs an age information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input age information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012-12 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-13.

(Step S2012-13)
In step S2012-13, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the "gender input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the "gender input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated, using the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P. Then, if it is determined that the "gender input field" has been operated (step S2012-13=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-14. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "gender input field" has not been operated (step S2012-13=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-15.

(Step S2012-14)
In step S2012-14, the mobile terminal P performs a gender information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input gender information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012-14 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-15.

(Step S2012-15)
In step S2012-15, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "password input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "password input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "password input field" has been operated (step S2012-15=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-16. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "password input field" has not been operated (step S2012-15=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-17.

(Step S2012-16)
In step S2012-16, the mobile terminal P performs a password information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input password information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2012-16 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-17.

(Step S2012-17)
In step S2012-17, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "Complete" operation has been performed. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal has been received from the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P indicating that the area corresponding to "Complete" has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "Complete" operation has been performed (step S2012-17=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-18. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "Complete" operation has not been performed (step S2012-17=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-2.

(Step S2012-18)
In step S2012-18, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not input has been completed. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not input of name information, address information, phone number information, email address information, age information, gender information, and password information required for member registration has been completed. If it is determined that input has been completed (step S2012-18=YES), the process proceeds to step S2012-21. On the other hand, if it is determined that input has not been completed (step S2012-18=NO), the process proceeds to step S2012-19.

(Step S2012-19)
In step S2012-19, the mobile terminal P performs a member registration error screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of displaying a member registration error screen (see FIG. 47(G)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P, which notifies the user that member registration is not possible because the input of information required for member registration has not been completed, etc. Then, when the process of step S2012-19 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-20.

(Step S2012-20)
In step S2012-20, the mobile terminal P performs a process to return to the member information input screen. Specifically, the mobile terminal P displays the member information input screen (see FIG. 47(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P, and performs a process to return to the state in which the information input before the "Complete" operation was performed by the process of step S2012-17 was input. Then, when the process of step S2012-20 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-2.

(Step S2012-21)
In step S2012-21, the mobile terminal P performs a member registration information transmission process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of transmitting the input member registration information to the member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S2012-21 ends, the process proceeds to step S2012-22.

Here, the "member registration information" includes information relating to the name entered in the "name input field", information relating to the address entered in the "address input field", information relating to the telephone number entered in the "phone number input field", information relating to the email address entered in the "email address input field", information relating to the age entered in the "age input field", information relating to the gender entered in the "gender input field", and information relating to the password entered in the "password input field".

(Step S2012-22)
In step S2012-22, the portable terminal P performs a registration completion screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of displaying a registration completion screen (see FIG. 47(E)) notifying that the member registration has been completed on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2012-22 ends, the subroutine of the member registration operation process in the second embodiment ends, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P.

(Member Information Update Operation Processing in the Second Embodiment)
Next, the member information update operation processing in the second embodiment, which is performed in step S2014 of the main processing on the mobile terminal P, will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2014-1)
In step S2014-1, mobile terminal P performs a member information receiving process. Specifically, mobile terminal P performs a process of requesting member management server 101 to send member information stored in member management DB 102, and performs a process of receiving the member information from member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S2014-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-2.

(Step S2014-2)
In step S2014-2, the mobile terminal P performs a member information update screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to display a member information update screen (see FIG. 48(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2014-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-3.

Here, the "member information update screen" includes a "name input field" for entering a name, an "address input field" for entering an address, a "phone number input field" for entering a phone number, an "email address input field" for entering an email address, an "age input field" for entering an age, a "gender input field" for entering a gender, a "password input field" for entering a password, an area corresponding to "cancel," and an area corresponding to "complete."

The member information update screen will also be displayed with the "Name input field", "Address input field", "Telephone number input field", "Email address input field", "Age input field", "Gender input field" and "Password input field" filled in based on the member information acquired by the member information acquisition process in step S2014-1.

(Step S2014-3)
In step S2014-3, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to "cancel," and the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has been performed (step S2014-3=YES), the subroutine of the member information update operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the mobile terminal P. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S2014-3=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-4.

(Step S2014-4)
In step S2014-4, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "name input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "name input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "name input field" has been operated (step S2014-4=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-5. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "name input field" has not been operated (step S2014-4=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-6.

(Step S2014-5)
In step S2014-5, the mobile terminal P performs a name information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input name information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2014-5 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-6.

(Step S2014-6)
In step S2014-6, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not the "address input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "address input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "address input field" has been operated (step S2014-6=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-7. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "address input field" has not been operated (step S2014-6=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-8.

(Step S2014-7)
In step S2014-7, the mobile terminal P performs an address information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input address information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2014-7 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-8.

(Step S2014-8)
In step S2014-8, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "phone number input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "phone number input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "phone number input field" has been operated (step S2014-8=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-9. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "phone number input field" has not been operated (step S2014-8=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-10.

(Step S2014-9)
In step S2014-9, the mobile terminal P performs a process of inputting phone number information. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of inputting phone number information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2014-9 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-10.

(Step S2014-10)
In step S2014-10, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "email address input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "email address input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "email address input field" has been operated (step S2014-10=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-11. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "email address input field" has not been operated (step S2014-10=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-12.

(Step S2014-11)
In step S2014-11, the mobile terminal P performs an email address information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input email address information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2014-11 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-12.

(Step S2014-12)
In step S2014-12, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "age input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "age input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "age input field" has been operated (step S2014-12=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-13. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "age input field" has not been operated (step S2014-12=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-14.

(Step S2014-13)
In step S2014-13, the mobile terminal P performs an age information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input age information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2014-13 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-14.

(Step S2014-14)
In step S2014-14, the mobile device P performs a process to determine whether or not the "gender input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile device P performs a process to determine whether or not the "gender input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P has been operated, using the touch panel sensor of the mobile device P. Then, if it is determined that the "gender input field" has been operated (step S2014-14=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-15. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "gender input field" has not been operated (step S2014-14=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-16.

(Step S2014-15)
In step S2014-15, the mobile terminal P performs a gender information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input gender information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2014-15 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-16.

(Step S2014-16)
In step S2014-16, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the "password input field" has been operated. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of determining, by the touch panel sensor of the mobile terminal P, whether or not the "password input field" of the member information input screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "password input field" has been operated (step S2014-16=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-17. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "password input field" has not been operated (step S2014-16=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-18.

(Step S2014-17)
In step S2014-17, the mobile terminal P performs a password information input process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to input password information required for member registration. Then, when the process of step S2014-17 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-18.

(Step S2014-18)
In step S2014-18, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "Complete" operation has been performed. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal has been received from the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P indicating that the area corresponding to "Complete" has been operated. Then, if it is determined that the "Complete" operation has been performed (step S2014-18=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-19. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "Complete" operation has not been performed (step S2014-18=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-3.

(Step S2014-19)
In step S2014-19, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not input has been completed. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to determine whether or not input of name information, address information, phone number information, email address information, age information, gender information, and password information required for member registration has been completed. If it is determined that input has been completed (step S2014-19=YES), the process proceeds to step S2014-22. On the other hand, if it is determined that input has not been completed (step S2014-19=NO), the process proceeds to step S2014-20.

(Step S2014-20)
In step S2014-20, the mobile terminal P performs a member information update error screen display process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to display a member information update error screen (see FIG. 48(G)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P, which notifies the user that the registered member information cannot be updated because the information required to update the registered member information has not been updated, etc. Then, when the process of step S2014-20 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-21.

(Step S2014-21)
In step S2014-21, the mobile device P performs a process to return to the member information update screen. Specifically, the mobile device P displays the member information update screen (see FIG. 48(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P, and performs a process to return to the state in which the information input before the "Complete" operation was performed by the process of step S2014-18 was input. Then, when the process of step S2014-21 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-3.

(Step S2014-22)
In step S2014-22, the mobile terminal P performs a member update information transmission process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of transmitting the input member update information to the member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S2014-22 ends, the process proceeds to step S2014-23.

Here, the "member update information" includes information related to the name entered in the "name input field", information related to the address entered in the "address input field", information related to the telephone number entered in the "phone number input field", information related to the email address entered in the "email address input field", information related to the age entered in the "age input field", information related to the gender entered in the "gender input field", and information related to the password entered in the "password input field".

(Step S2014-23)
In step S2014-23, the portable terminal P performs an update completion screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of displaying an update completion screen (see FIG. 48(E)) notifying that the member registration update has been completed on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2014-23 ends, the subroutine of the member information update operation process in the second embodiment ends, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P.

(Processing during operation of two-dimensional code in the second embodiment)
Next, the two-dimensional code operation process in the second embodiment, which is performed in step S2016 of the main process in the portable terminal P, will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2016-1)
In step S2016-1, mobile terminal P performs a member information receiving process. Specifically, mobile terminal P performs a process of requesting member management server 101 to send member information stored in member management DB 102, and performs a process of receiving the member information from member management server 101. Then, when the process of step S2016-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S2016-2.

(Step S2016-2)
In step S2016-2, the mobile terminal P performs a two-dimensional code generation process. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process to generate a two-dimensional code to be held up over the two-dimensional code reader 8 of the point exchange device 1, based on the member information received in the member information reception process in step S2016-1. Then, when the process of step S2016-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S2016-3.

(Step S2016-3)
In step S2016-3, the portable terminal P performs a two-dimensional code screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of displaying a two-dimensional code screen (see FIG. 49(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P, on which the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation process in step S2016-2 is displayed. Then, when the process of step S2016-3 ends, the process proceeds to step S2016-4.

(Step S2016-4)
In step S2016-4, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a "Complete" operation has been performed. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not a signal indicating that the area corresponding to "Complete" has been operated has been received by the touch panel sensor of the portable terminal P. Then, when it is determined that the "Complete" operation has been performed (step S2016-4=YES), the subroutine of the two-dimensional code operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main processing in the portable terminal P. On the other hand, when it is determined that the "Complete" operation has not been performed (step S2016-4=NO), the process of step S2016-4 is repeated until the "Complete" operation is performed.

(Point Addition Operation Processing in the Second Embodiment)
Next, the point addition operation process in the second embodiment, which is performed in step S2018 of the main process in the portable terminal P, will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S2018-1)
In step S2018-1, the portable terminal P performs a two-dimensional code reading screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of displaying a two-dimensional code reading screen (see FIG. 50(B)) on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2018-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S2018-2.

(Step S2018-2)
In step S2018-2, the portable terminal P performs a two-dimensional code reading process. Here, the portable terminal P performs a process of reading the two-dimensional code. Then, when the process of step S2018-2 ends, the process proceeds to step S2018-3.

(Step S2018-3)
In step S2018-3, the mobile device P performs a process to determine whether or not a "cancel" operation has been performed. Specifically, a signal indicating that an operation has been performed on the area corresponding to "cancel" is transmitted by the touch panel sensor of the mobile device P, and the mobile device P performs a process to determine whether or not the signal has been received. Then, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has been performed (step S2018-3=YES), the subroutine of the point addition operation processing in the second embodiment is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the mobile device P. On the other hand, if it is determined that a "cancel" operation has not been performed (step S2018-3=NO), the process proceeds to step S2018-4.

(Step S2018-4)
In step S2018-4, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not reading is complete. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of determining whether or not the two-dimensional code has been read by the two-dimensional code reading process in step S2018-2. Then, if it is determined that reading is complete (step S2018-4=YES), the process proceeds to step S2018-5. On the other hand, if it is determined that reading is not complete (step S2018-4=NO), the process proceeds to step S2018-2.

(Step S2018-5)
In step S2018-5, the portable terminal P performs a point addition information transmission process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of transmitting point addition information to the point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S2018-5 ends, the process proceeds to step S2018-6.

(Step S2018-6)
In step S2018-6, the mobile terminal P performs a process of receiving point addition completion information. Specifically, the mobile terminal P performs a process of receiving point addition completion information from the point management server 401. Then, when the process of step S2018-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S2018-7.

(Step S2018-7)
In step S2018-7, the portable terminal P performs a point addition screen display process. Specifically, the portable terminal P performs a process of displaying a point exchange completion screen (see FIG. 50(C)) notifying the user that the point addition has been completed on the liquid crystal display device of the portable terminal P. Then, when the process of step S2018-7 ends, the subroutine of the point addition operation process in the second embodiment ends, and the process proceeds to step S2001 of the main process in the portable terminal P.

(Animation when checking points in the second embodiment)
Next, the animation when checking points in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 44 (A), the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 44(B), when the area corresponding to "Points Check" in FIG. 44(A) is operated, a points check screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "points check screen" includes information related to the currently held points, an area corresponding to "Details," and an area corresponding to "End."

Next, as shown in FIG. 44(C), when the area corresponding to "Details" in FIG. 44(B) is operated, a details screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "details screen" includes information related to the update date, information related to the shop, information related to points, information related to the expiration date, an area corresponding to the "up cursor", an area corresponding to the "down cursor", and an area corresponding to "end". Note that in FIG. 44(C), the area corresponding to the "up cursor" is inoperable, while the area corresponding to the "down cursor" is operable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 44(D), when the area corresponding to the "down cursor" in FIG. 44(C) is operated, the details screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P is updated.

Next, as shown in FIG. 44(E), when the area corresponding to "Exit" in FIG. 44(D) is operated, the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Animation of product exchange in the second embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 45, an animation for product exchange in the second embodiment will be described.

First, as shown in FIG. 45(A), the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 45(B), when the area corresponding to "product exchange" is operated in FIG. 45(A), a category selection screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "category selection screen" includes information related to the points currently held, an area corresponding to the "up cursor," an area corresponding to the "down cursor," and areas corresponding to each category.

In FIG. 45(B), an area corresponding to "vouchers," an area corresponding to "miscellaneous goods," an area corresponding to "food items," and an area corresponding to "game points" are displayed, but areas corresponding to categories other than these may also be displayed.

Next, as shown in FIG. 45(C), when the area corresponding to "voucher" is operated in FIG. 45(B), a product exchange screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "product exchange screen" includes information related to the points currently held, an area related to the product corresponding to the selected category, an area corresponding to "sort", an area corresponding to the "up cursor", an area corresponding to the "down cursor", and an area corresponding to "end".

Here, in FIG. 45(C), an area corresponding to product X, an area corresponding to product Y, and an area corresponding to product Z are displayed on the liquid crystal display device of mobile terminal P as areas corresponding to products in the selected category.

In FIG. 45(C), the areas corresponding to the "up cursor" and "down cursor" are inoperable, while the areas corresponding to the products in the selected category, the area corresponding to "sort", and the area corresponding to "end" are operable. Here, the areas corresponding to product Y and product Z are inoperable because the current points held are less than the points required to exchange for the product.

Next, as shown in FIG. 45(D), when the area corresponding to "Product X" in FIG. 45(C) is operated, a product details screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "product details screen" includes information related to the product name, information related to the product image, information related to the product description, an area corresponding to "Exchange," and an area corresponding to "Cancel."

Next, as shown in FIG. 45(E), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" is operated in FIG. 45(D), a product confirmation screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "product confirmation screen" includes a text image saying "Your points will be exchanged for a product. Are you sure?", information related to the product name, information related to the product image, information related to the points that will be possessed after exchanging for the product, an area corresponding to "Exchange", and an area corresponding to "Cancel".

Next, as shown in FIG. 45(F), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" is operated in FIG. 45(E), a product exchange completion screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the "product exchange completion screen" is an image for notifying that the product exchange has been completed, and is, for example, a text image stating "Product exchange has been completed" as shown in FIG. 45(F).

Next, as shown in FIG. 45(G), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 45(F), the application top menu screen will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Animation when checking a product)
Next, with reference to FIG. 46, an animation for checking a product in the second embodiment will be described.

First, as shown in FIG. 46 (A), the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 46(B), when the area corresponding to "Product Confirmation" is operated in FIG. 46(A), a category selection screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 46(C), when the area corresponding to "Vouchers" is operated in FIG. 46(B), a product list screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "product list screen" includes an area for products corresponding to the selected category, an area corresponding to "Sort," an area corresponding to the "Up Cursor," an area corresponding to the "Down Cursor," and an area corresponding to "End."

Next, as shown in FIG. 46(D), a product introduction screen corresponding to "Product X" in FIG. 46(C) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "product introduction screen" includes information related to the product name, information related to the product image, information related to the product description, and an area corresponding to "End."

Next, as shown in FIG. 46(E), when the area corresponding to "Exit" in FIG. 46(D) is operated, the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Animation during member registration in the second embodiment)
Next, the animation that occurs during member registration in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 47(A), the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 47(B), when the area corresponding to "member registration" in FIG. 47(A) is operated, a member information input screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of mobile terminal P. Here, the "member information input screen" includes an area for inputting information relating to name, an area for inputting information relating to address, an area for inputting information relating to telephone number, an area for inputting information relating to email address, an area for inputting information relating to age, an area for inputting information relating to gender, an area for inputting information relating to password, an area corresponding to "complete" which becomes operable after these items are input, and an area corresponding to "cancel". Note that the area corresponding to "complete" is displayed in white if it is operable, and is displayed in gray if it is inoperable.

Next, as shown in FIG. 47(C), when the "Name Input Field" in FIG. 47(B) is operated, it becomes possible to input name information. Specifically, a character input image is displayed, and by operating this character input image, it becomes possible to input name information into the name input field.

Next, as shown in FIG. 47(D), when the information relating to the name, address, telephone number, email address, age, gender, and password is entered in FIG. 47(C), the area corresponding to "Complete" becomes operable.

In FIG. 47(D), if the entered information does not satisfy the predetermined conditions and the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, a member registration error screen will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. For example, if information other than numbers is entered in the area for entering information related to a telephone number, a member registration error screen as shown in FIG. 47(G) will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 47(E), when the area corresponding to "Complete" in FIG. 47(D) is operated, a registration completion screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "registration completion screen" is a screen that notifies the user that membership registration has been completed, and is, for example, a text image that reads "Thank you for registering," as shown in FIG. 47(E).

Next, as shown in FIG. 47(F), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 47(E), or when the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated in FIG. 47(B), FIG. 47(C), or FIG. 47(D), the application top menu screen will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Animation when updating member information in the second embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 48, the animation that occurs when updating member information in the second embodiment will be described.

First, as shown in FIG. 48 (A), the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 48(B), when the area corresponding to "member information update" in FIG. 48(A) is operated, the member information update screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 48(C), when the "Name Input Field" in FIG. 48(B) is operated, it becomes possible to update the name information. Specifically, a character input image is displayed, and by operating this character input image, it becomes possible to update the name information in the name input field.

Next, as shown in FIG. 48(D), when at least some of the information relating to name, address, telephone number, email address, age, gender, and password in FIG. 48(C) are updated, the area corresponding to "Complete" becomes operable.

In addition, in FIG. 48(D), if the entered information does not satisfy the predetermined conditions and the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, a member information update error screen will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. For example, if information other than numbers is entered in the area for entering information related to a telephone number, a member information update error screen shown in FIG. 48(G) will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 48(E), when the area corresponding to "Complete" in FIG. 48(D) is operated, an update completion screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "update completion screen" is a screen that notifies the user that the member registration update has been completed, and is, for example, a text image that reads "Update completed" as shown in FIG. 48(E).

Next, as shown in FIG. 48(F), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 48(E), or when the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated in FIG. 48(B), FIG. 48(C), or FIG. 48(D), the application top menu screen will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Animation when a two-dimensional code is displayed in the second embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 49, animation when a two-dimensional code is displayed in the second embodiment will be described.

First, as shown in FIG. 49 (A), the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 49(B), when the area corresponding to the "two-dimensional code" in FIG. 49(A) is operated, the two-dimensional code screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Here, the "two-dimensional code screen" includes a two-dimensional code to be read by the two-dimensional code reader 8 of the point exchange device 1, an area corresponding to "Complete," and a text image that reads "Please hold the screen over the point exchange device."

Next, as shown in FIG. 49(C), when the area corresponding to "Complete" in FIG. 49(B) is operated, the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Animation when points are added in the second embodiment)
Next, the animation that occurs when points are added in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 50 (A), the application top menu screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Next, as shown in FIG. 50(B), when the area corresponding to "Add points" in FIG. 50(A) is operated, the two-dimensional code reading screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

Here, the "two-dimensional code reading screen" includes a text image that says "Please read the two-dimensional code," a frame image for reading the two-dimensional code, and an area that corresponds to "Cancel."

Next, as shown in Figure 50 (C), in Figure 50 (B), when the operation related to the point exchange is performed by the point exchange device 1 and the two-dimensional code printed on the paper (receipt) discharged from the paper discharge outlet 7 is read, a point exchange completion screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "point exchange completion screen" includes information related to the name, a text image saying "Point exchange has been completed," the total points before the points were added, the points to be added, and these total points.

Next, as shown in FIG. 50(D), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 50(C), or when the area corresponding to "Cancel" is operated in FIG. 50(B), the application top menu screen will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Transition of point exchange operation processing, point addition operation processing, and point confirmation operation processing in the second embodiment)
Next, transitions between the point exchange operation process, the point addition operation process, and the point confirmation operation process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Transition of processing during point exchange operation in the second embodiment)
First, the transition of processing during a point exchange operation in the second embodiment will be described.

First, the point exchange device 1 performs the point exchange information transmission process in step S6-16. This causes the point exchange information to be transmitted from the point exchange device 1 to the point management server 401.

Then, the point management server 401 performs a process of storing the point exchange information received from the point exchange device 1 by the point exchange information storage process of step S405. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the point ID storage area 402a, the update date and time storage area 402b, the shop storage area 402c, the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the updated point storage area 402g, and the security code storage area 402i.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs the security code reception process in step S6-17. This causes the point exchange device 1 to request the point management server 401 to send a security code.

Then, the point management server 401 transmits the security code stored in the security code storage area 402i to the point exchange device 1 through the security code transmission process in step S407.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs a process of generating a two-dimensional code for point exchange in step S6-18. This generates a two-dimensional code that contains information related to the URL for accessing the point management server 401, more specifically, information related to the URL for carrying out the procedure for exchanging the points, information related to the number of points to be exchanged, and information related to the security code received in the security code reception process in step S6-17.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs the process of displaying an exchange receipt issuance image (see FIG. 22(E)) on the liquid crystal display device 2, which notifies the user that a paper (receipt) for exchanging the prize 50 for points will be issued, through the exchange receipt issuance image display process of step S6-19.

Then, the point exchange device 1 performs the exchange receipt issuing process in step S6-20 to print the two-dimensional code generated in the point exchange two-dimensional code generation process in step S6-18 on a piece of paper (receipt), and ejects the printed paper (receipt) from the paper ejection port 7.

(Transition of processing during point addition operation in the second embodiment)
Next, the transition of the process during a point addition operation in the second embodiment will be described.

First, when the mobile device P finishes reading the two-dimensional code printed on the discharged paper (receipt), it performs the point addition information transmission process in step S2018-5. This causes the point addition information to be transmitted from the mobile device P to the point management server 401.

Here, the "point addition information" includes information regarding the number of points to be exchanged, the terminal identification information of the mobile terminal P, and information regarding the security code.

In the first embodiment, when the point management server 401 receives name and password information (step S408 = YES), it performs a point allocation authentication process by processing in step S409, whereas in the second embodiment, when the point management server 401 receives point addition information from the mobile device P, it performs a point allocation authentication process by processing in step S409. As a result, it transmits the point addition information to the member management server 101.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives the point addition information, it performs the member authentication process in step S106. As a result, it determines whether the terminal identification information included in the point addition information received by the point management server 401 from the mobile device P matches the information registered as a member.

Then, after performing the member authentication process in step S106, the member management server 101 performs the member authentication result information transmission process in step S107. As a result, the member authentication result information is transmitted from the member management server 101 to the point management server 401.

Then, the point management server 401 receives information from the member management server 101 that the user has been authenticated as a member, and when the authentication is complete (step S410 = YES), it performs the point addition process in step S411. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the point ID storage area 402a, the update date and time storage area 402b, the shop storage area 402c, the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the point management DB member ID storage area 402e, the member name storage area 402f, the updated point storage area 402g, and the expiration date storage area 402h of the point management DB 402.

Then, after the point addition process in step S411, the point management server 401 performs the process of receiving the member information to which the email is to be sent in step S412. As a result, the point management server 401 makes a request to the member management server 101 to send the member information to which the email is to be sent.

Here, the "email sending target member information" includes at least information related to the member's email address stored in the email address storage area 102f.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives a request from the point management server 401 to send the email to the target member, the member management server 101 performs the member information sending process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 sends the member information to which the email is to be sent to the point management server 401.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives the member information to which the email is to be sent from the member management server 101, it performs the point addition email sending process in step S413. This causes the point addition email to be sent to the member.

At this time, if the points that the wholesaler purchased from the point association are about to sell out, an email containing information that the points are about to sell out may be sent to the wholesaler or shop.

In addition, the point management server 401 transmits to the mobile device P the point addition completion information required to display the point addition screen on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Then, the mobile device P performs the point addition completion information reception process in step S2018-6. This receives the point addition completion information from the point management server 401.

Then, when the mobile device P receives the point completion information from the point management server 401, it performs the point addition screen display process in step S2018-7. As a result, the point exchange completion screen (see FIG. 50(C)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

(Transition of processing during point confirmation operation in the second embodiment)
Next, the transition of the process during the point confirmation operation in the second embodiment will be described.

First, the mobile device P performs a member information reception process in step S2006-1. This causes the mobile device P to make a member information transmission request to the member management server 101.

Then, when a member information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the member management server 101 performs the member information transmission process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 transmits the member information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the member information from the member management server 101, the mobile device P performs the point information reception process in step S2006-2. As a result, the mobile device P makes a point information transmission request to the point management server 401.

Then, when a point information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the point management server 401 performs a point information transmission process in step S417. As a result, the point management server 401 transmits the point information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the point information from the point management server 401, the mobile terminal P performs a point confirmation screen display process in step S2006-3. As a result, a point confirmation screen (see FIG. 44(B)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P based on the member information received in the member information reception process in step S2006-1 and the member information received in the point information reception process in step S2006-2.

(Transition of Product Exchange Operation Processing and Product Confirmation Operation Processing in the Second Embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 52, the transitions of the process at the time of a product exchange operation and the process at the time of a product confirmation operation in the second embodiment will be described.

(Transition of Product Exchange Operation Processing in the Second Embodiment)
First, the transition of the process during a product exchange operation in the second embodiment will be described.

The mobile device P performs the member information reception process in step S2008-1. As a result, the mobile device P makes a member information transmission request to the member management server 101.

Then, when a member information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the member management server 101 performs the member information transmission process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 transmits the member information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the member information from the member management server 101, the mobile device P performs the point information reception process in step S2008-2. As a result, the mobile device P makes a point information transmission request to the point management server 401.

Then, when a point information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the point management server 401 performs a point information transmission process in step S417. As a result, the point management server 401 transmits the point information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the point information from the point management server 401, the mobile device P performs the product information reception process in step S2008-3. As a result, the mobile device P makes a product information transmission request to the product management server 301.

Then, when a product information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the product management server 301 performs a product information transmission process in step S308. As a result, the product management server 301 transmits the product information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the product information from the product management server 301, the mobile terminal P performs a category selection screen display process in step S2008-4. As a result, a category selection screen (see FIG. 45(B)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P based on the member information received in the member information reception process in step S2008-1, the member information received in the point information reception process in step S2008-2, and the product information received in the product information reception process in step S2008-3.

Then, the mobile device P performs the product exchange information transmission process in step S2008-19. As a result, the mobile device P transmits the product exchange information to the purchase management server 201.

Then, when the purchasing management server 201 receives the product exchange information from the mobile terminal P, it performs the product exchange information registration process of step S202. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the purchasing ID memory area 202a, the purchasing date memory area 202b, the exchange device ID memory area 202c, the purchaser memory area 202d, the purchased product memory area 202e, the scheduled shipping date memory area 202f, the shipping destination memory area 202g, and the purchasing member phone number memory area 202h of the purchasing management DB 202.

Then, after the product exchange information registration process in step S202, the purchasing management server 201 performs the product exchange completion information transmission process in step S203. As a result, the purchasing management server 201 transmits the product exchange completion information to the product management server 301.

Then, when the product management server 301 receives the product exchange completion information from the purchasing management server 201, it performs the inventory quantity subtraction process in step S302. As a result, "1" is subtracted from the value stored in the inventory quantity storage area 302f of the purchasing management DB 202.

Then, the mobile device P performs the point subtraction information transmission process in step S2008-20. As a result, the mobile device P transmits the point subtraction information to the point management server 401.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives point subtraction information from the mobile device P, it performs a process at the time of receiving the point subtraction information in step S415. As a result, the point management server 401 stores the point subtraction information in the point management DB 402.

Then, after the point deduction information transmission process in step S2008-20 is performed, the mobile terminal P performs the product exchange completion screen display process in step S2008-21. As a result, the product exchange completion screen (see FIG. 45 (F)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

(Transition of Product Confirmation Operation Processing in the Second Embodiment)
Next, the transition of the process during the product confirmation operation in the second embodiment will be described.

The mobile device P performs the product information reception process in step S2010-1. As a result, the mobile device P makes a product information transmission request to the product management server 301.

Then, when a product information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the product management server 301 performs a product information transmission process in step S308. As a result, the product management server 301 transmits the product information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the product information from the product management server 301, the mobile terminal P performs a category selection image display process in step S2010-2. As a result, a category selection screen (see FIG. 46(B)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P based on the product information received by the product information reception process in step S2010-1.

(Transition of Member Registration Operation Process and Member Information Update Operation Process in the Second Embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 53, a description will be given of the transitions between the member registration operation process, the member information update operation process, and the two-dimensional code operation process in the second embodiment.

(Transition of Member Registration Operation Processing in the Second Embodiment)
First, the transition of processes during a member registration operation in the second embodiment will be described.

First, the mobile device P transmits the member registration information to the member management server 101 through the member registration information transmission process in step S2012-13.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives the member registration information from the mobile device P, it performs the member registration information reception process of step S102. As a result, each piece of information is stored in each of the following areas: member ID storage area 102a, name storage area 102b, address storage area 102c, terminal identification information storage area 102d, phone number storage area 102e, email address storage area 102f, password storage area 102g, age storage area 102h, and gender storage area 102i.

(Transition of Member Information Update Operation Processing in the Second Embodiment)
Next, the transition of processing during a member information update operation in the second embodiment will be described.

First, the mobile device P performs a member information reception process in step S2014-1. This causes the mobile device P to make a member information transmission request to the member management server 101.

Then, when a member information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the member management server 101 performs the member information transmission process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 transmits the member information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the member information from the member management server 101, the mobile device P performs the member information update screen display process in step S2014-2. As a result, the member information update screen (see FIG. 48 (B)) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Then, the mobile device P performs the member update information transmission process in step S2014-13. As a result, the mobile device P performs the process of transmitting the member update information to the member management server 101.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives the member update information from the mobile device P, it performs the member update information reception process of step S104. As a result, the information is updated and stored in each of the following areas: member ID storage area 102a, name storage area 102b, address storage area 102c, terminal identification information storage area 102d, phone number storage area 102e, email address storage area 102f, password storage area 102g, age storage area 102h, and gender storage area 102i.

(Transition of processing when operating a two-dimensional code in the second embodiment)
Next, the transition of processes when a two-dimensional code is operated in the second embodiment will be described.

First, the mobile device P performs a member information reception process in step S2016-1. This causes the mobile device P to make a member information transmission request to the member management server 101.

Then, when a member information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the member management server 101 performs the member information transmission process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 transmits the member information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the member information from the member management server 101, the mobile terminal P performs the two-dimensional code generation process in step S2016-2. This performs the process of generating a two-dimensional code to be held up to the two-dimensional code reading unit 8 of the point exchange device 1.

Third Embodiment
Next, the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 54 to 61. In describing the third embodiment, differences from the first and second embodiments will be described, and descriptions of commonalities will be omitted.

(Outline of the product exchange system in the third embodiment)
First, an overview of the product exchange system in the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

In the third embodiment, cash is deposited and points are issued within the amount of the deposited cash.

(Shops and wholesalers)
As shown in Fig. 54, a shop deposits cash with a wholesaler, and the wholesaler issues points to the shop within the amount of the deposited money.

In this way, a shop can deposit cash with a wholesaler, and the wholesaler can issue points to the shop within the amount of the deposited cash.

(Points Association and Wholesaler)
As shown in Fig. 55, the wholesaler deposits cash with the point association, and the point association issues points to the wholesaler within the amount of the deposited money.

In this way, wholesalers can deposit cash with the points association, which can then issue points to the wholesaler within the amount of the deposited cash.

(Systems Constituting the Product Exchange System in the Third Embodiment)
Next, each system constituting the product exchange system in the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The product exchange system in the third embodiment is composed of a points exchange device 1, a mobile terminal P, a member management system 100, a purchase management system 200, a product management system 300, a points management system 400, and a deposit management system 500. Therefore, the deposit management system 500 will be explained below.

(Deposit Management System 500)
The deposit management system 500 is made up of a deposit management server 501 and a deposit management DB 502, and is a system for managing deposit information.

(Deposit Management Server 501)
The deposit management server 501 is provided to be capable of communicating with the point exchange device 1 and the point management server 401, and is provided to perform a process of storing deposit information in the deposit management DB 502. Note that the deposit management server 501 is managed by the wholesaler when a shop deposits a deposit with a wholesaler, and is managed by the point association when the wholesaler deposits a deposit with the point association.

(Deposit Management DB502)
The deposit management DB 502 is provided to store the deposit information. The deposit management DB 502 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

(Deposit information stored by the deposit management DB 502 in the third embodiment)
Next, the deposit information stored by the deposit management DB 502 in the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The deposit management DB 502 includes a deposit management ID memory area 502a for storing the deposit management ID, a deposit update date and time memory area 502b for storing the deposit update date and time, a shop memory area 502c for the deposit management DB for storing information related to the shop, an exchange device ID memory area 502d for the deposit management DB for storing the exchange device ID, a deposit amount memory area 502e for storing the deposited amount, and an exchange point memory area 502f for storing information related to the exchange points, and each data is linked.

For example, when cash is deposited, the following data are stored in association with each other: "00000001" in the deposit management ID storage area 502a, "2018/01/01 08:10" stored in the deposit update date and time storage area 502b, "Store A" stored in the deposit management DB shop storage area 502c, "00000001" stored in the deposit management DB exchange device ID storage area 502d, and "1,000,000" stored in the deposit amount storage area 502e.

When points are issued, the following data are stored in association with each other: "00000006" in the deposit management ID storage area 502a, "2018/01/01 11:14" stored in the deposit update date and time storage area 502b, "Store B" stored in the deposit management DB shop storage area 502c, "00095701" stored in the deposit management DB exchange device ID storage area 502d, and "20,000" stored in the exchange point storage area 502f.

(Point exchange operation processing in the third embodiment)
Next, the process at the time of the point exchange operation in the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S6-21)
In step S6-21, CPU 11 performs a process of transmitting point issuance request information. Specifically, CPU 11 performs a process of transmitting point issuance request information to point management server 401. Here, "point issuance request information" includes at least the ID of point exchange device 1 and information related to the number of points to be exchanged. Then, when the process of step S6-21 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-22.

(Step S6-22)
In step S6-22, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not point issuance information has been received. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process to determine whether or not point issuance information has been received from the point management server 401. If it is determined that point issuance information has been received (step S6-22=YES), the process proceeds to step S6-23. On the other hand, if it is determined that point issuance information has not been received (step S6-22=NO), the process proceeds to step S6-24.

(Step S6-23)
In step S6-23, the CPU 11 performs processing when points are exchangeable. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs processing to generate a two-dimensional code for point exchange in step S6-18, processing to display an image for issuing an exchange receipt in step S6-19, and processing to issue an exchange receipt in step S6-20. Then, when the processing in step S6-23 ends, the subroutine for the processing at the time of the point exchange operation in the third embodiment ends, and the processing proceeds to step S19 of the main processing in the point exchange device 1 (see FIG. 11).

(Step S6-24)
In step S6-24, the CPU 11 performs processing for displaying a point exchange impossible screen. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs processing for displaying a point exchange impossible image (see FIG. 60(E)) on the liquid crystal display device 2. Then, when the processing of step S6-24 ends, the process proceeds to step S6-25.

(Step S6-25)
In step S6-25, the CPU 11 performs a prize return process. Specifically, the CPU 11 performs a process of returning the prize 50 to the prize return unit 4. Then, when the process of step S6-25 ends, the subroutine of the point exchange operation process in the third embodiment ends, and the process proceeds to step S19 of the main process (see FIG. 11) in the point exchange device 1.

(Main Processing in Deposit Management Server 501)
Next, the main processing in the deposit management server 501 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S3001)
In step S3001, the deposit management server 501 performs a process to determine whether or not a deposit deposit operation has been performed. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process to determine whether or not a deposit deposit operation, which is performed when a deposit is made, has been performed. If it is determined that a deposit deposit operation has been performed (step S3001=YES), the process proceeds to step S3002. On the other hand, if it is determined that a deposit deposit operation has not been performed (step S3001=NO), the process proceeds to step S3004.

(Step S3002)
In step S3002, the deposit management server 501 performs a process when depositing a deposit. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of storing each piece of information in the deposit management ID storage area 502a, the deposit update date and time storage area 502b, the deposit management DB shop storage area 502c, the deposit management DB exchange device ID storage area 502d, and the deposit amount storage area 502e of the deposit management DB 502. Then, when the process of step S3002 is completed, the process proceeds to step S3003.

(Step S3003)
In step S3003, the deposit management server 501 performs a deposit deposit notification process. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of sending an email containing information that the deposit has been deposited, information on the deposited amount, and information on the depositor (e.g., a wholesaler or a shop, as described above) to the administrator of the deposit management server (e.g., a wholesaler or a point association). Then, when the process of step S3003 ends, the main process in the deposit management server 501 ends, and the process is executed again from step S3001.

(Step S3004)
In step S3004, the deposit management server 501 performs a process to determine whether or not point issuance request information has been received. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process to determine whether or not point issuance request information has been received from the point exchange device 1. If it is determined that point issuance request information has been received (step S3004=YES), the process proceeds to step S3005. On the other hand, if it is determined that point issuance request information has not been received (step S3004=NO), the main process in the deposit management server 501 is terminated, and the process is executed again from step S3001.

(Step S3005)
In step S3005, the deposit management server 501 performs a deposit check process. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 calculates the deposit amount for each shop based on the information stored in the deposit management DB 502, and performs a process of comparing the calculated deposit amount for each shop with the point issuance request information transmitted this time. Then, when the process of step S3005 ends, the process proceeds to step S3006.

(Step S3006)
In step S3006, the deposit management server 501 performs a process to determine whether or not points can be issued. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process to determine whether or not the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the amount of points requested by the point issuance request information as a result of the deposit check process in step S3005. Here, the deposit management server 501 determines that points can be issued if the deposited amount is equal to or greater than the amount of points requested by the point issuance request information. If it is determined that points can be issued (step S3006=YES), the process proceeds to step S3007. On the other hand, if it is determined that points cannot be issued (step S3006=NO), the process proceeds to step S3010.

(Step S3007)
In step S3007, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of transmitting point issuance information. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of transmitting point issuance information to the point exchange device 1. Here, the "point issuance information" includes at least information indicating that points can be issued. Then, when the process of step S3007 is completed, the process proceeds to step S3008.

(Step S3008)
In step S3008, the deposit management server 501 performs a deposit subtraction process. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of storing each piece of information in the deposit management ID storage area 502a, the deposit update date and time storage area 502b, the deposit management DB shop storage area 502c, the deposit management DB exchange device ID storage area 502d, and the exchange point storage area 502f of the deposit management DB 502. Then, when the process of step S3008 is completed, the process proceeds to step S3009.

(Step S3009)
In step S3009, the deposit management server 501 performs a point issuance notification process. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of sending an email containing information that points have been issued, information related to the issued points, and information related to the ID of the point exchange device 1 that issued the points, to the administrator of the deposit management server (e.g., a wholesaler or a point association). Then, when the process of step S3009 ends, the main process in the deposit management server 501 ends, and the process is executed again from step S3001.

(Step S3010)
In step S3010, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of transmitting point issuance impossible information. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of transmitting point issuance impossible information to the point exchange device 1. Here, the "point issuance impossible information" includes at least information indicating that points cannot be issued. Then, when the process of step S3010 is completed, the process proceeds to step S3011.

(Step S3011)
In step S3011, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of notifying the deposit management server 501 that points cannot be issued. Specifically, the deposit management server 501 performs a process of sending an email containing information that points cannot be issued to the deposit management server's administrator (e.g., a wholesaler or a point association). Then, when the process of step S3011 ends, the main process in the deposit management server 501 ends, and the process is executed again from step S3001.

(Animation when points cannot be exchanged in the third embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 60, an animation that appears when points cannot be exchanged in the third embodiment will be described.

First, as shown in FIG. 60(A), a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 60(B), when the area corresponding to "point exchange" in FIG. 60(A) is operated, an image prompting the player to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion portion 3 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 60(C), in FIG. 60(B), when "1" first prize 51 is inserted into the prize insertion unit 3 and the prize reading unit 15 determines that the inserted first prize 51 is not a counterfeit, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 prompting the user to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion unit 3 is updated.

Next, as shown in FIG. 60(D), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 60(C) is operated, an image prompting confirmation of the exchange of prizes 50 and points is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Specifically, the number of prizes 50 inserted into the prize insertion unit 3 and determined by the prize reading unit 15 to be not counterfeit, the value of the points to be exchanged, and the fact that the expiration date is "3" months from the date of exchange are notified.

Next, as shown in FIG. 60(E), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 60(D) is operated and the amount of points requested by the point issuance request information is not equal to or greater than the deposited amount, a points exchange impossible image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 to inform the user that the prize 50 could not be exchanged for points. Here, the "points exchange impossible image" includes a text image stating "Points exchange not possible" and a text image stating "Please be careful not to forget to pick up your prize."

Next, as shown in FIG. 60(F), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 60(E), the top menu image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Transition of processing during point exchange operation in the third embodiment)
Next, the transition of processing during a point exchange operation in the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the point exchange device 1 performs a point issuance request information transmission process in step S6-21. This causes the point exchange device 1 to transmit point issuance request information to the deposit management server 501.

Then, the deposit management server 501 performs a deposit check process in step S3005. As a result, the deposit management server 501 calculates the deposit amount for each shop, and performs a process of comparing the calculated deposit amount for each shop with the point issuance request information sent this time.

Below, we will explain separately the cases where points can be issued and the cases where points cannot be issued as a result of the deposit check process in step S3005.

(When points can be issued)
First, the deposited money management server 501 executes a point issuance information transmission process in step S3007. As a result, the deposited money management server 501 transmits the point issuance information to the point exchange device 1.

Then, the deposit management server 501 performs the point issuance information transmission process in step S3007, and then performs the deposit subtraction process in step S3008. This causes the process of storing each piece of information in the deposit management ID memory area 502a, the deposit update date and time memory area 502b, the shop memory area 502c for the deposit management DB, the exchange device ID memory area 502d for the deposit management DB, and the exchange point memory area 502f of the deposit management DB 502.

Then, when the point exchange device 1 receives the point issuance availability information from the deposit management server 501, it performs the point exchange availability process in step S6-23. As a result, the point exchange device 1 performs the process of generating a two-dimensional code for point exchange in step S6-18, the process of displaying an image for issuing an exchange receipt in step S6-19, and the process of issuing an exchange receipt in step S6-20.

Then, the mobile terminal P connects to the point management server 401 via the Internet by reading the two-dimensional code printed on the discharged paper (receipt). Then, a point addition image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P.

When the point addition image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P, after the name information and password information are entered, if the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated, the name and password information is transmitted from the mobile device P to the point management server 401 via the Internet.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives the name and password information from the mobile device P, it performs the point allocation authentication process in step S409. This causes the name and password information to be sent to the member management server 101.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives the name information and password information from the mobile device P, it performs the member authentication process in step S106. As a result, it determines whether the name and password information received by the point management server 401 from the mobile device P matches the information registered as a member.

Then, after performing the member authentication process in step S106, the member management server 101 performs the member authentication result information transmission process in step S107. As a result, the member authentication result information is transmitted from the member management server 101 to the point management server 401.

Then, the point management server 401 receives information from the member management server 101 that the user has been authenticated as a member, and when the authentication is complete (step S410 = YES), it performs the point addition process in step S411. As a result, each piece of information is stored in the point ID storage area 402a, the update date and time storage area 402b, the shop storage area 402c, the point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402d, the point management DB member ID storage area 402e, the member name storage area 402f, the updated point storage area 402g, and the expiration date storage area 402h of the point management DB 402.

Then, after the point addition process in step S411 is performed, the point management server 401 performs a process for receiving the member information to which an email is to be sent. As a result, the point management server 401 makes a request to the member management server 101 to send the member information to which an email is to be sent.

Then, when the member management server 101 receives a request from the point management server 401 to send the email to the target member, the member management server 101 performs the member information sending process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 sends the member information to which the email is to be sent to the point management server 401.

Then, when the point management server 401 receives the member information to which the email is to be sent from the member management server 101, it performs the point addition email sending process in step S413. This causes the point addition email to be sent to the member.

(When points cannot be issued)
If it is impossible to issue points, the deposited money management server 501 executes a process of transmitting information indicating that points cannot be issued in step S3010. As a result, the deposited money management server 501 transmits information indicating that points cannot be issued to the point exchange device 1.

Then, the deposit management server 501 performs the process of sending information that points cannot be issued in step S3010, and then performs the process of notifying the user that points cannot be issued in step S3011. This causes the deposit management server to send an email to the administrator of the deposit management server (e.g., a wholesaler or a points association).

On the other hand, when the point exchange device 1 receives point issuance impossible information from the deposit management server 501, it performs point exchange impossible processing in step S6-24. As a result, a point exchange impossible image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 62 and 63. In describing the fourth embodiment, differences from the first to third embodiments will be described, and descriptions of common points will be omitted.

In the fourth embodiment, when exchanging prizes 50 for points, if the conditions for granting premium points are met, the prizes 50 can be exchanged for more points than if the conditions for granting premium points are not met.

(Point Addition Processing in the Fourth Embodiment)
Next, the point addition process in the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S411-1)
In step S411-1, the point management server 401 performs a process of acquiring the number of times points have been exchanged. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of acquiring the number of times points have been exchanged for prizes 50. Then, when the process of step S411-1 ends, the process proceeds to step S411-2.

Here, the "number of points exchanged" may be the number of times that prize 50 has been exchanged for points up to now, or the number of times that prize 50 has been exchanged for points within a specified period (e.g., "1" year).

The method of acquiring the number of point exchanges can be set as appropriate. For example, the number of point exchanges can be acquired by storing the number of times prizes 50 and points have been exchanged in the point management DB 402, or the number of point exchanges can be acquired by performing a calculation using the information stored in the point management DB 402.

(Step S411-2)
In step S411-2, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the number of prize exchanges is a predetermined number or more. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the number of point exchanges acquired by the point exchange number acquisition process in step S411-1 is a predetermined number or more. If it is determined that the number of prize exchanges is the predetermined number or more (step S411-2=YES), the process proceeds to step S411-3. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of prize exchanges is not the predetermined number or more (step S411-2=NO), the process proceeds to step S411-4.

(Step S411-3)
In step S411-3, the point management server 401 performs a process of setting a first premium point. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of setting a first premium point based on the number of point exchanges acquired by the process of acquiring the number of point exchanges in step S411-1. Then, when the process of step S411-3 ends, the process proceeds to step S411-4.

Here, the value of the first premium points set by the first premium point setting process can be set appropriately. For example, it may be a value equal to the second premium points, a value larger than the second premium points, or a value smaller than the second premium points.

The value set by the first premium point setting process may be specified in multiple stages. For example, the first premium point setting process may set a larger value when the number of point exchanges acquired by the point exchange number acquisition process in step S411-1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined number (e.g., 10 times) and is less than a second predetermined number (e.g., 20 times) than when the number of point exchanges is equal to or greater than a second predetermined number (e.g., 20 times).

The value set by the first premium point setting process may not be a predetermined value, but may be a value obtained by multiplying the value of the points to be exchanged for the prize 50 by a predetermined percentage (e.g., 1%). In this case, the predetermined percentage may be defined in multiple stages. For example, a larger value may be multiplied as the predetermined percentage when the number of point exchanges acquired by the point exchange number acquisition process in step S411-1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined number (e.g., 10 times) but less than a second predetermined number (e.g., 20 times).

(Step S411-4)
In step S411-4, the point management server 401 performs a process of acquiring a point exchange amount. Specifically, the point management server 401 performs a process of acquiring a point exchange amount obtained by exchanging the points for the prize 50. Then, when the process of step S411-4 ends, the process proceeds to step S411-5.

Here, the "point exchange amount" may be the total amount of prizes 50 exchanged for points up to now, or the total amount of prizes 50 exchanged for points within a specified period (e.g., "1" year).

The method of acquiring the point exchange amount can be set as appropriate. For example, the point exchange amount may be acquired by storing the exchange amount between the prize 50 and the points in the point management DB 402, or the point exchange amount may be acquired by performing a calculation using the information stored in the point management DB 402.

(Step S411-5)
In step S411-5, point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the point exchange amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. Specifically, point management server 401 performs a process to determine whether or not the point exchange amount acquired by the point exchange amount acquisition process in step S411-4 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. If it is determined that the point exchange amount is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount (step S411-5=YES), the process proceeds to step S411-6. On the other hand, if it is determined that the point exchange amount is not equal to or greater than the predetermined amount (step S411-5=NO), the process proceeds to step S411-7.

(Step S411-6)
In step S411-6, point management server 401 performs a process of setting second premium points. Specifically, point management server 401 performs a process of setting second premium points based on the point exchange amount acquired in the point exchange amount acquisition process in step S411-4. Then, when the process of step S411-6 ends, the process proceeds to step S411-7.

Here, the value of the second premium points set by the second premium point setting process can be set appropriately. For example, it may be a value equal to the first premium points, a value larger than the first premium points, or a value smaller than the first premium points.

The value set by the second premium point setting process may be specified in multiple stages. For example, the second premium point setting process may set a larger value when the point exchange amount acquired by the point exchange amount acquisition process in step S411-4 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined amount (e.g., "100,000") and less than a second predetermined amount (e.g., "200,000").

The value set by the second premium point setting process may not be a predetermined value, but may be a value obtained by multiplying the value of the points to be exchanged for the prize 50 by a predetermined percentage (e.g., 1%). In this case, the predetermined percentage may be defined in multiple stages. For example, a larger value may be multiplied as the predetermined percentage when the point exchange amount acquired by the point exchange amount acquisition process in step S411-4 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined amount (e.g., 100,000) and less than the second predetermined amount (e.g., 200,000).

(Step S411-7)
In step S411-7, the point management server 401 performs a point addition process. Specifically, the point management server 401 adds the value of the points exchanged for the prize 50, the first premium points set by the first premium point setting process in step S411-3, and the second premium points set by the second premium point setting process in step S411-6, and stores the result in the point management DB 402. Then, when the process of step S411-7 ends, the subroutine of the point addition process in the fourth embodiment ends, and the process proceeds to step S412 of the main process in the point management server 401.

(Animation during point exchange in the fourth embodiment)
Next, the animation at the time of point exchange in the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

Note that explanations of Figures 63(A) to 63(G) are omitted as they are the same as Figures 22(A) to 22(G).

As shown in FIG. 63(H), when the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated after the name-related information and password-related information are input in FIG. 63(G), the point exchange completion screen in the fourth embodiment is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile terminal P. Here, the "point exchange completion screen in the fourth embodiment" includes the name-related information, a text image saying "Point exchange has been completed," the total points before the points are added, the points to be added, the premium points, and the total points of these.

In the fourth embodiment, the first premium points and the second premium points are awarded based on the number of point exchanges acquired by the point exchange number acquisition process in step S411-1 and the point exchange amount acquired by the point exchange amount acquisition process in step S411-4, but this is not limited to this and the conditions for awarding premium points can be set as appropriate.

For example, it is possible to award either first premium points that are awarded based on the number of point exchanges acquired by the point exchange number acquisition process in step S411-1, or second premium points that are awarded based on the point exchange amount acquired by the point exchange amount acquisition process in step S411-4.

In this case, the value of the first premium points set by the first premium point setting process in step S411-3 and the value of the second premium points set by the second premium point setting process in step S411-6 may be compared, and the larger value or the smaller value may be awarded.

In addition, a specific date and time or a specific day of the week may be applied as a condition for granting premium points. For example, the condition for granting premium points may be between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., between January 1 and January 3, or on a Wednesday.

Fifth Embodiment
Next, the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 64 to 67. In describing the fifth embodiment, differences from the first to fourth embodiments will be described, and descriptions of common points will be omitted.

In the fifth embodiment, when exchanging points for prizes 50, the member information of the gaming facility can be used to exchange for a large number of points.

(Systems Constituting the Product Exchange System in the Fifth Embodiment)
Next, each system constituting the product exchange system in the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The product exchange system in the fifth embodiment is composed of a points exchange device 1, a mobile terminal P, a member management system 100, a purchase management system 200, a product management system 300, a points management system 400, a deposit management system 500, and an amusement store member management system 600. Therefore, the amusement store member management system 600 will be described below.

(Amusement Shop Membership Management System 600)
The amusement store member management system 600 is composed of an amusement store member management server 601 and an amusement store member management DB 602, and is a system for managing information on members of an amusement store.

(Amusement store member management server 601)
The gaming facility member management server 601 is provided to be capable of communicating with the mobile terminal P, and is provided to perform a process of storing information on members of the gaming facility in the gaming facility member management DB 602. The gaming facility member management server 601 is managed by the gaming facility.

(Amusement store member management DB 602)
The gaming establishment member management DB 602 is provided to store information on members of the gaming establishment. The gaming establishment member management DB 602 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

(Amusement store member information stored by the gaming store member management DB 602 in the fifth embodiment)
Next, the gaming facility member information stored by the deposit management DB 502 in the fifth embodiment will be explained using FIG.

The amusement store member management DB 602 includes an amusement store member management ID storage area 602a for storing an amusement store member management ID, an amusement store member name storage area 602b for storing the names of the amusement store members, a member address storage area 602c for storing the addresses of the amusement store members, a member phone number storage area 602d for storing the phone numbers of the amusement store members, a member email address storage area 602e for storing the email addresses of the amusement store members, a member password storage area 602f for storing information related to the passwords of the amusement store members, a member age storage area 602g for storing the ages of the amusement store members, a member gender storage area 602h for storing the genders of the amusement store members, a saved ball storage area 602i for storing information related to saved balls, a saved medal storage area 602j for storing information related to saved medals, and a visit count storage area 602k for storing the number of visits to the amusement store, and each data is linked.

For example, the following data are stored in association with each other: "00000001" in the amusement store member management ID storage area 602a; "Tanaka Ichiro" in the amusement store member name storage area 602b; "YY 1-2, XX ward, Tokyo" in the member address storage area 602c; "03-XXXX-XXXX" in the member phone number storage area 602d; "abc@XXXX.com" in the member email address storage area 602e; "2525" in the member password storage area 602f; "36" in the member age storage area 602g; "Male" in the member gender storage area 602h; "0" in the saved balls storage area 602i; "0" in the saved medals storage area 602j; and "1" in the number of visits storage area 602k.

The gaming establishment member management DB 602 may store information other than the above-mentioned information. For example, it may store information related to the birthdays of gaming establishment members, the date of membership registration for the gaming establishment, etc.

The saved ball memory area 602i and the saved medal memory area 602j may have memory areas corresponding to the game balls and game medal rates lent to players, and may store information related to saved balls and saved medals according to each rate.

(Main Processing in the Gaming Store Member Management Server in the Fifth Embodiment)
Next, the main processing in the gaming shop member management server in the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S4001)
In step S4001, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a process to determine whether or not it is time for gaming store member registration. Specifically, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation related to gaming store member registration has been performed. If it is determined that it is time for gaming store member registration (step S4001=YES), the process proceeds to step S4002. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not time for gaming store member registration (step S4001=NO), the process proceeds to step S4003.

(Step S4002)
In step S4002, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a process for registering a gaming store member. Specifically, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a process for storing each piece of information in the gaming store member management DB 602. Then, when the process of step S4002 ends, the main process in the gaming store member management server 601 in the fifth embodiment ends, and the process is executed again from step S4001.

(Step S4003)
In step S4003, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a process to determine whether or not it is time to request transmission of gaming store member information. Specifically, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a process to determine whether or not a transmission request of gaming store member information has been made from the mobile terminal P. Then, if it is determined that it is time to request transmission of gaming store member information (step S4003=YES), the process proceeds to step S4004. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not time to request transmission of gaming store member information (step S4003=NO), the process proceeds to step S4005.

(Step S4004)
In step S4004, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a gaming store member information transmission process. Specifically, the gaming store member management server 601 performs a process of transmitting the gaming store member information to the mobile terminal. Here, the "gaming store member information" refers to each data stored in the gaming store member management ID storage area 602a, the gaming store member name storage area 602b, the member address storage area 602c, the member phone number storage area 602d, the member email address storage area 602e, the member password storage area 602f, the member age storage area 602g, the member gender storage area 602h, the saved ball storage area 602i, the saved medal storage area 602j, and the number of visits storage area 602k stored in the gaming store member management DB 602. Then, when the processing of step S4004 is completed, the main processing in the gaming store member management server 601 in the fifth embodiment is terminated, and the processing is executed again from step S4001.

(Step S4005)
In step S4005, the gaming store member management server 601 performs other corresponding processing. Specifically, for example, when an operation to delete a member registration is performed, the gaming store member management server 601 performs processing to delete information stored in the gaming store member management DB 602, and when balls or medals are saved, the gaming store member management server 601 performs processing to update information stored in the gaming store member management DB 602. Then, when the processing of step S4005 is completed, the main processing in the gaming store member management server 601 in the fifth embodiment is terminated, and processing is executed again from step S4001.

(Transition of processing during point addition operation in the fifth embodiment)
Next, the transition of the process at the time of the point addition operation in the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

As a premise, the mobile device P starts up the installed application, operates the area corresponding to "Add Points" on the application top menu screen, and performs processing when the reading of the two-dimensional code is completed (step S2018-4 = YES).

First, the mobile device P performs a member information reception process. This causes the mobile device P to make a member information transmission request to the member management server 101.

Then, when a member information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the member management server 101 performs the member information transmission process in step S109. As a result, the member management server 101 transmits the member information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the member information from the member management server 101, the mobile device P performs an amusement store member information reception process. As a result, the mobile device P makes a request to the amusement store member management server 601 to send the amusement store member information.

Then, when a request to transmit game store member information is received from the mobile device P, the game store member management server 601 performs the game store member information transmission process in step S4004. As a result, the game store member management server 601 transmits the game store member information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the gaming store member information from the gaming store member management server 601, the mobile device P performs a point exchange information reception process. As a result, the mobile device P makes a point exchange information transmission request to the point management server 401.

Then, when a point exchange information transmission request is received from the mobile device P, the point management server 401 performs a point exchange information transmission process. As a result, the point management server 401 transmits the point exchange information to the mobile device P.

Then, after receiving the point exchange information from the point management server 401, the mobile device P performs a combined information generation process. As a result, the mobile device P generates combined information by combining the information contained in the read two-dimensional code, the point exchange information received from the point management server 401, and the amusement store member information received from the amusement store member management server 601.

Then, after performing the combined information generation process, the mobile device P performs the combined information transmission process. As a result, the mobile device P transmits the combined information to the point management server 401.

Then, after receiving the total information from the mobile device P, the point management server 401 performs the point allocation authentication process in step S409. Here, in the fifth embodiment, the point management server 401 performs the point allocation authentication process using the total information.

Then, the point management server 401 performs the point allocation authentication process in step S409, and then performs the point addition process in step S411. Here, in the point addition process in the fifth embodiment, the points can be exchanged for a large number of points depending on the gaming store membership information.

For example, if the value stored in the visit count memory area 602k is equal to or greater than a first value and less than a second value that is greater than the first value, more points will be awarded than if the value is less than the first value.

Then, the point management server 401 performs the point addition process in step S411, and then performs the point addition email sending process in step S413. This causes a point addition email to be sent to the member.

In addition, the point management server 401 transmits to the mobile device P the point addition completion information required to display the point addition screen on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

Then, the mobile device P receives the point addition completion information from the point management server 401 through the point addition completion information reception process in step S2018-6.

Then, when the mobile device P receives the point completion information from the point management server 401 through the point addition completion information reception process in step S2018-6, it performs the point addition screen display process in step S2018-7. At this time, the points to be exchanged for the prize 50 and the points added according to the gaming facility membership information are displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the mobile device P.

In the above example, the more points are awarded according to the value stored in the visit count memory area 602k, but this is not limited to this. For example, the more points may be awarded according to the time spent playing the gaming machine, or the more points may be awarded according to the time spent playing the gaming machine and the number of visits.

In addition, more points may be awarded depending on the amount of game balls or game medals used in a game, or more points may be awarded depending on the number of games played.

Sixth Embodiment
Next, the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 68 and 69. In describing the sixth embodiment, differences from the first to fifth embodiments will be described, and descriptions of commonalities will be omitted.

(Systems Constituting the Product Exchange System in the Sixth Embodiment)
Next, each system constituting the product exchange system in the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The product exchange system in the sixth embodiment is composed of a points exchange device 1, a mobile terminal P, a member management system 100, a purchase management system 200, a product management system 300, a points management system 400, a deposit management system 500, and a wholesaler management system 700. Therefore, the wholesaler management system 700 will be described below.

(Wholesaler Management System 700)
The wholesaler management system 700 is composed of a wholesaler management server 701 and a wholesaler management DB 702, and is a system for wholesalers to manage information related to deposits.

(Wholesaler Management Server 701)
The wholesaler management server 701 is provided to be capable of communicating with the point exchange device 1, the member management server 101, the purchase management server 201, the product management server 301, the point management server 401, and the deposit management server 501, and is provided to perform a process of storing information related to the deposit in the wholesaler management DB 702. The wholesaler management server 701 is managed by the wholesaler.

(Wholesaler Management DB702)
The wholesaler management DB 702 is provided to store information related to the deposit. The deposit management DB 702 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

(Wholesaler Management Information Stored by the Wholesaler Management DB 702 in the Sixth Embodiment)
Next, the wholesaler management information stored by the wholesaler management DB 702 in the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The wholesaler management DB 702 includes a wholesaler management ID storage area 702a for storing the wholesaler management ID, a wholesaler time storage area 702b for storing the time when the information was updated, a wholesaler shop storage area 702c for storing information related to the shop where the points were exchanged, a wholesaler exchange point number storage area 702d for storing information related to the number of exchanged points, and a wholesaler remaining deposit amount storage area 702e for storing information related to the remaining deposit amount, and each data is linked.

For example, the following data are stored in association with each other: "00000001" in the wholesaler management ID storage area 702a; "2018/01/01 11:00:00" in the wholesaler time storage area 702b; "Store A" in the wholesaler shop storage area 702c; "10,000" in the wholesaler exchange point number storage area 702d; and "9,9000,000" in the wholesaler remaining deposit amount storage area 702e.

In this way, in the sixth embodiment, the wholesaler management system 700 can manage the remaining amount of the deposit, etc., allowing the wholesaler to smoothly manage the deposit.

(Modification)
Each of the modified examples will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Animation showing the remaining deposit amount)
Next, the animation displaying the remaining amount of the deposit will be described with reference to FIG.

Figures 70(A) to 70(C) are the same as Figures 60(A) to 60(C), so their explanation will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 70(D), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 70(C) is operated, the point exchange device 1 displays on the liquid crystal display device 2 an image prompting the user to confirm the exchange of points for a prize 50. Here, when the deposited cash falls below a predetermined amount (e.g., "100,000"), the points that can be exchanged based on the deposited amount are displayed in the exchangeable points display area 800.

Figures 70(E) to 70(F) are the same as Figures 60(E) to 60(F), so their explanation will be omitted.

In addition, when the deposited cash falls below a predetermined amount (e.g., "100,000"), instead of displaying the points that can be exchanged based on the deposited amount in the exchangeable points display area 800, a message may be displayed in the exchangeable points display area 800 indicating that only a small amount of deposited cash remains and that it will be impossible to exchange prizes 50 for points.

In addition, the system may display in the exchangeable points display area 800 that the prize 50 cannot be exchanged for points because the deposited cash is almost full, and that the points that can be exchanged based on the deposited cash are not available for exchange.

In addition, when the deposited cash falls below a predetermined amount, the points that can be exchanged based on the deposited amount are displayed in the exchangeable points display area 800, but this is not limited to this, and for example, even if the deposited cash is not below the predetermined amount, the points that can be exchanged based on the deposited amount may be displayed in the exchangeable points display area 800.

(Modification of animation when registering as a member)
Next, a modified example of the animation displayed at the time of member registration will be described with reference to FIG.

First, Figure 71(A) and Figure 71(C) to Figure 71(H) are the same as Figure 29(A) and Figure 29(C) to Figure 29(H), so their explanation will be omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 71(B), when the area corresponding to "member registration" in FIG. 71(A) is operated, a paper (receipt) on which a two-dimensional code containing information related to a URL for accessing the member management server 101 is printed is not discharged from the paper discharge outlet 7, but rather the two-dimensional code containing information related to a URL for accessing the member management server 101 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

As a result, instead of a player registering as a member by reading the two-dimensional code printed on the paper (receipt) discharged from the paper discharge port 7, the player registers as a member by reading the two-dimensional code displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. This eliminates the need to provide a printing unit 16 and paper discharge port 7, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the point exchange device 1.

(Animation variation when updating member information)
Next, a modified example of the animation when updating member information will be described with reference to FIG.

First, Figure 72(A) and Figure 72(C) to Figure 72(H) are the same as Figure 30(A) and Figure 30(C) to Figure 30(H), so their explanation will be omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 72(B), when the area corresponding to "Update Member Information" in FIG. 72(A) is operated, a paper (receipt) on which a two-dimensional code containing information related to the URL for accessing the member management server 101 is printed is not discharged from the paper discharge outlet 7, but rather the two-dimensional code containing information related to the URL for accessing the member management server 101 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

As a result, instead of updating membership information by reading the two-dimensional code printed on the paper (receipt) discharged from the paper discharge port 7, the player updates membership information by reading the two-dimensional code displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. This eliminates the need to provide a printing unit 16 and paper discharge port 7, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the point exchange device 1.

In addition, in Figures 71 and 72, the two-dimensional code related to member registration and the two-dimensional code related to member information update are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2, but this is not limited to this, and the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation process for point exchange in step S6-18 may also be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Animation when exchanging limited-time products in modified version)
Next, the animation that occurs when exchanging limited-time products in the modified example will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 73(A), a product exchange image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the product exchange image in the modified example displays information related to the name, information related to the points currently held, an area related to the product corresponding to the selected category, an area corresponding to "sort", an area corresponding to "up cursor", an area corresponding to "down cursor", an area corresponding to "end", and an area corresponding to "limit".

Next, as shown in FIG. 73(B), when the area corresponding to "limited" is operated in FIG. 73(A), an area corresponding to "product α", which is limited in time, an area corresponding to "product β", which is limited in time, an area corresponding to "product γ", which is limited in time, and an area corresponding to "regular" are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Note that when the area corresponding to "regular" is operated in FIG. 73(B), the product exchange image in FIG. 73(A) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 73(C), when the area corresponding to "product α" in FIG. 73(B) is operated, a product detail image corresponding to "product α" is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the product detail image corresponding to a product that is available for a limited time displays the period during which it can be exchanged.

Next, as shown in FIG. 73(D), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" is operated in FIG. 73(C), a product confirmation image is displayed.

Note that explanations of Figures 73(E) to 73(F) are omitted as they are the same as Figures 25(H) to 25(I).

In this way, by making it possible to exchange points for limited-time products, it is possible to increase purchasing motivation for limited-time products.

In addition, for limited-time products, if the stock level reaches "0" even before the period has elapsed, the product may become non-exchangeable.

(Animation when exchanging limited quantity products in modified example)
Next, using FIG. 74, an animation for exchanging limited quantity products in the modified example will be described.

First, as shown in FIG. 74(A), a product exchange image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the product exchange image in the modified example displays information related to the name, information related to the points currently held, an area related to the product corresponding to the selected category, an area corresponding to "sort", an area corresponding to "up cursor", an area corresponding to "down cursor", an area corresponding to "end", and an area corresponding to "limit".

Next, as shown in FIG. 74(B), when the area corresponding to "limited" is operated in FIG. 74(A), an area corresponding to "product α", which is a limited quantity, an area corresponding to "product β", which is a limited quantity, and an area corresponding to "regular" are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Note that when the area corresponding to "regular" is operated in FIG. 74(B), the product exchange image in FIG. 74(A) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Next, as shown in FIG. 74(C), when the area corresponding to "product β" in FIG. 74(B) is operated, a product detail image corresponding to "product β" is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the product detail image corresponding to a product with limited quantity displays the exchangeable quantity (remaining number).

Next, as shown in FIG. 74(D), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" is operated in FIG. 74(C), a product confirmation image is displayed.

Note that explanations of Figures 74(E) to 74(F) are omitted as they are the same as Figures 25(H) to 25(I).

In this way, by making it possible to exchange points for limited-edition products, it is possible to increase purchasing motivation for limited-edition products.

(An animation showing that only a few products are left in a modified example)
Next, an animation showing that only a few products are left in a modified example will be described with reference to FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 75(A), a product exchange image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, the product exchange image in the modified example displays information related to the name, information related to the points currently held, an area related to the product corresponding to the selected category, an area corresponding to "sort", an area corresponding to "up cursor", an area corresponding to "down cursor", an area corresponding to "end", and an area corresponding to "limit".

Here, as shown in FIG. 75(A), a text image saying "Only a few left" is displayed in the information area corresponding to "Product X." This notifies the user that the stock of "Product X" is below a certain number.

Next, as shown in FIG. 75(B), when the area corresponding to "product X" in FIG. 75(A) is operated, a product detail image corresponding to "product X" is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, as shown in FIG. 75(B), a text image saying "Only a few left" is also displayed in the product detail image. This notifies the user that the stock of "product X" is below a specified number.

As a result, when exchanging a product, a text image saying "Limited quantity remaining" will be displayed, allowing users to know that the stock quantity is below a certain number.

Note that the text image "Only a few left" is displayed when the product exchange image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 and when the product detail image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2, but this is not limited to this and the text image "Only a few left" may be displayed either when the product exchange image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 or when the product detail image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

The notification that the stock quantity is below a predetermined number may be made in a different manner than by displaying a text image saying "Limited quantity remaining." For example, the stock quantity may be displayed directly on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Animation of exchanging points for each prize in a modified example)
Next, using FIG. 76, an animation for exchanging points for each prize in the modified example will be described.

First, explanations of Figures 76(A) to 76(B) will be omitted as they are the same as Figures 22(A) to 22(B).

Next, as shown in FIG. 76(C), in FIG. 76(B), one each of the first prize 51, second prize 52, and third prize 53 are inserted into the prize insertion unit 3, and if the prize reading unit 15 determines that the inserted first prize 51, second prize 52, and third prize 53 are not counterfeit, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 prompting the user to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion unit 3 is updated. Specifically, the area displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 reporting the number of first prizes 51 inserted, the area reporting the number of second prizes 52 inserted, and the area reporting the number of third prizes 53 inserted are updated.

Next, as shown in FIG. 76(D), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 76(C) is operated, an image prompting the user to confirm the exchange of prize 50 and points is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Here, as shown in FIG. 76(D), an exchange item determination area 900 for determining the exchange item for prize 50 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 together with the image prompting the user to confirm the exchange of prize 50 and points.

Here, the exchange item determination area 900 allows the selection of four types of conditions: "exchange all," "exchange only the first prize 51," "exchange only the second prize 52," and "exchange only the third prize 53," but is not limited to these, and conditions such as "exchange the first prize 51 and the second prize 52," "exchange the first prize 51 and the third prize 53," and "exchange the second prize 52 and the third prize 53" may also be selected.

Next, as shown in FIG. 76(E), when the exchange item determination area 900 in FIG. 76(D) is operated, the item switches from "exchange all" to "exchange only the first prize 51". At the same time, the value of the points to be exchanged is updated from "7000" points, which corresponds to "exchange all", to "5500" points, which corresponds to "exchange only the first prize 51".

Next, as shown in FIG. 76(F), when the exchange item determination area 900 in FIG. 76(E) is operated, the "exchange for first prize 51 only" will be switched to "exchange for second prize 52 only". At the same time, the value of the points to be exchanged will be updated from "5500" points, which corresponds to "exchange for first prize 51 only", to "1500" points, which corresponds to "exchange for second prize 52 only".

Next, as shown in FIG. 76(G), when the exchange item determination area 900 in FIG. 76(F) is operated, the "exchange for second prize 52 only" will be switched to "exchange for third prize 53 only". At the same time, the value of the points to be exchanged will be updated from "1500" points, which corresponds to "exchange for second prize 52 only", to "1000" points, which corresponds to "exchange for third prize 53 only".

Next, as shown in FIG. 76(H), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 76(G) is operated, an exchange receipt issuance image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 to notify that a paper (receipt) for exchanging the third prize 53 for points will be ejected. At this time, the first prize 51 and the second prize 52 are returned, so an image of text stating "Please be careful not to forget to pick up your prize" is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 76(I), when a predetermined time has elapsed in FIG. 76(H), the top menu image will be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(First Modification of Point Exchange Device 1)
Next, a first modified example of the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

The prize insertion section 3 of the point exchange device 1 described using FIG. 3 is capable of inserting the first prize 51, the second prize 52, and the third prize 53, whereas the first modified example of the point exchange device 1 is provided with a first prize insertion section 3a for inserting the first prize 51, a second prize insertion section 3b for inserting the second prize 52, and a third prize insertion section 3c for inserting the third prize 53.

In this case, a first prize reading unit 15a may be provided to read the first prize 51 inserted into the first prize insertion unit 3a, a second prize reading unit 15b to read the second prize 52 inserted into the second prize insertion unit 3b, and a third prize reading unit 15c to read the third prize 53 inserted into the third prize insertion unit 3c, or the prize reading unit 15 may read the first prize inserted into the first prize insertion unit 3a, the second prize inserted into the second prize insertion unit 3b, and the third prize inserted into the third prize insertion unit 3c.

(Second Modification of Point Exchange Device 1)
Next, a second modified example of the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

The second variant of the point exchange device 1 is composed of a two-dimensional code reader 8, a prize counting device 20, an indoor counting result display device 30, and an outdoor counting result display device 40. Therefore, the prize counting device 20, the indoor counting result display device 30, and the outdoor counting result display device 40 will be explained below.

(Prize counting device 20)
The prize counting device 20 is provided to read the prizes 50, determine their authenticity, and count the read prizes 50. Here, the prize counting device 20 is composed of a prize placement section 21 on which the prizes 50 are placed, a lid section 22 for closing the prize placement section 21 after the prizes 50 are placed on the prize placement section 21, a count start button 23 for starting counting the prizes 50, and a count end button 24 for ending counting the prizes 50.

(Indoor Counting Result Display Device 30)
The indoor counting result display device 30 is installed in a shop at a position where it can be seen by the shop staff. Here, the indoor counting result display device 30 is composed of an indoor first prize display unit 31 for displaying the counting result of the first prize 51, an indoor second prize display unit 32 for displaying the counting result of the second prize 52, an indoor third prize display unit 33 for displaying the counting result of the third prize 53, and an indoor point display unit 34 for displaying the value of points that can be exchanged as a result of counting the prize 50.

(Outdoor Counting Result Display Device 40)
The outdoor counting result display device 40 is installed outside the shop in a position visible to a player who exchanges the prizes 50 for points. Here, the outdoor counting result display device 40 is composed of an outdoor first prize display section 41 for displaying the counting result of the first prize 51, an outdoor second prize display section 42 for displaying the counting result of the second prize 52, an outdoor third prize display section 43 for displaying the counting result of the third prize 53, and an outdoor point display section 44 for displaying the value of points that can be exchanged as a result of counting the prizes 50.

(Method of using the second modified example of the point exchange device 1)
Next, a method of using the second modified example of the point exchange device 1 will be described.

First, the prizes 50 are placed on the prize placement section 21 of the prize counting device 20. Next, the prize placement section 21 is closed by the lid section 22 of the prize counting device 20. Then, the counting of the prizes 50 is started by operating the counting start button 23, and the counting of the prizes 50 is ended by operating the counting end button 24.

When the prize counting device 20 finishes counting, information about the counting results is sent to the indoor counting result display device 30 and the outdoor counting result display device 40, and the counting results are displayed on the indoor counting result display device 30 and the outdoor counting result display device 40.

Then, by holding the two-dimensional code over the two-dimensional code reader 8, the person to whom the points will be awarded is identified and the points are awarded.

Then, when the points have been awarded, the two-dimensional code reading unit 8 transmits information to the indoor counting result display device 30 and the outdoor counting result display device 40 indicating that the points have been awarded, and when the indoor counting result display device 30 and the outdoor counting result display device 40 receive information indicating that the points have been awarded, they perform control to hide the displayed counting results.

In this way, instead of using the point exchange device 1, by modifying and using the prize counting device 20, indoor counting result display device 30, and outdoor counting result display device 40 that have traditionally been used in shops, prizes 50 can be exchanged for points at low cost.

(Third Modification of Point Exchange Device 1)
Next, a third modified example of the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

The third variant of the point exchange device 1 is composed of a prize counting device 20, an indoor counting result display device 30, and a tablet PC 60. For this reason, we will explain the tablet PC 60.

(Tablet PC 60)
The tablet PC 60 is composed of a liquid crystal display device and a touch panel, and is provided to display the contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 of the point exchange device 1.

(Method of using the third modified example of the point exchange device 1)
Next, a method of using the third modified example of the point exchange device 1 will be described.

First, the prizes 50 are placed on the prize placement section 21 of the prize counting device 20. Next, the prize placement section 21 is closed by the lid section 22 of the prize counting device 20. Then, the counting of the prizes 50 is started by operating the counting start button 23, and the counting of the prizes 50 is ended by operating the counting end button 24.

When the prize counting device 20 finishes counting, information related to the counting results is sent to the indoor counting result display device 30 and the tablet PC 60, and the counting results are displayed on the indoor counting result display device 30 and the tablet PC 60.

Then, the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation process for point exchange in step S6-18 is displayed on the tablet PC 60, and the two-dimensional code is read by the mobile terminal P.

When the display of the two-dimensional code is complete, the tablet PC 60 transmits information to the indoor counting result display device 30 that the points have been awarded, and when the indoor counting result display device 30 receives the information that the points have been awarded, it performs control to hide the displayed counting result.

Then, after transmitting information indicating that the points have been awarded, the tablet PC 60 performs control to display the top menu image on the liquid crystal display device of the tablet PC 60.

In this way, instead of using the point exchange device 1, by modifying and using the prize counting device 20 or indoor counting result display device 30 that have traditionally been used in shops, it is possible to exchange prizes 50 for points at low cost.

(Fourth Modification of the Point Exchange Device 1)
Next, a fourth modified example of the point exchange device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

The fourth variant of the point exchange device 1 is composed of the point exchange device 1, a prize counting device 20, and an indoor counting result display device 30.

The fourth variant of the point exchange device 1 differs from the point exchange device 1 described using FIG. 3 in that it does not have a prize insertion section 3.

(Method of using the fourth modified example of the point exchange device 1)
Next, a method of using the fourth modified example of the point exchange device 1 will be described.

First, the prizes 50 are placed on the prize placement section 21 of the prize counting device 20. Next, the prize placement section 21 is closed by the lid section 22 of the prize counting device 20. Then, the counting of the prizes 50 is started by operating the counting start button 23, and the counting of the prizes 50 is ended by operating the counting end button 24.

When the prize counting device 20 finishes counting, information related to the counting result is sent to the points exchange device 1 and the indoor counting result display device 30, and the counting result is displayed on the points exchange device 1 and the indoor counting result display device 30.

The point exchange device 1 then performs an exchange receipt issuing process and awards points by reading the two-dimensional code printed on the receipt with the mobile terminal P.

(Animation when exchanging points in modified example)
Next, the animation that appears when exchanging points in the modified example will be described with reference to FIG.

Figure 81 (A) is the same as Figure 22 (A), Figure 81 (B) is the same as Figure 22 (B), Figure 81 (D) is the same as Figure 22 (C), Figure 81 (E) is the same as Figure 22 (D), Figure 81 (G) is the same as Figure 22 (E), and Figure 81 (H) is the same as Figure 22 (F), so explanations will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 81(C), from the time when "1" first prize 51 is inserted into the prize insertion unit 3 in FIG. 81(B) until the prize reading unit 15 determines that the inserted first prize 51 is not a counterfeit, an image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 to notify the user that the prize 50 is being read.

As shown in FIG. 81(D), if it is determined in FIG. 81(C) that the inserted first prize 51 is not a counterfeit, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 encouraging the player to insert a prize 50 into the prize insertion section 3 is updated. Specifically, the area displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2 that notifies the player of the number of inserted first prizes 51 is updated.

Also, as shown in FIG. 81(F), when the area corresponding to "Exchange" in FIG. 81(E) is operated, a two-dimensional code for exchanging the prize 50 for points is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2. Note that in FIG. 81(F), when the area corresponding to "Complete" is operated after reading the two-dimensional code, a top menu image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

Also, as shown in FIG. 81(G), when the area corresponding to "Print" in FIG. 81(F) is operated, a replacement receipt printing image will be displayed on the LCD display device 2.

In this way, it is possible to select whether to display the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation process for point exchange in step S6-18 on the liquid crystal display device 2 or to issue a receipt. This allows the user to select to issue a receipt, for example, if the mobile terminal P is out of battery. On the other hand, if the user has the mobile terminal P, points can be immediately awarded by reading the two-dimensional code displayed on the liquid crystal display device 2.

(Overview of the product exchange system in the modified example)
Next, an overview of a product exchange system in a modified example will be described with reference to FIG.

In a modified product exchange system, a wholesaler makes a request for points to the points association via a card company, and the points association issues points to the wholesaler in response to the request.

(Wholesalers and card companies)
As shown in Fig. 82, when purchasing points, the wholesaler transmits payment information to the card company. Then, although not shown, the wholesaler pays the card company the amount of cash used by using the card.

(Card companies and point associations)
As shown in FIG. 82, after receiving the settlement information from the wholesaler, the card company pays the points association cash according to the settlement information.

(Points Association and Wholesaler)
As shown in FIG. 82, after the point association receives the cash from the card company, it issues points to the wholesaler.

In this way, by having the card company act as an intermediary between the wholesaler and the points association, points can be issued quickly.

Other Embodiments
Other embodiments will be described below.

In the above-described embodiment, when the prize 50 is exchanged for points, a receipt with a two-dimensional code printed on it is issued, but a deadline for reading the two-dimensional code may be set.

For example, when the point exchange device 1 performs a process of exchanging the prize 50 for points, information related to the reading deadline of the two-dimensional code is stored in the point management DB 402. Specifically, when the data in the row of point management ID 402a "00000001" in the point management DB 402 is stored, information related to the reading deadline of the two-dimensional code is also stored in association with the data.

When the two-dimensional code reading deadline has passed, it will no longer be possible to carry out the process of exchanging it for points using the mobile device P. For example, when the two-dimensional code reading deadline has passed, a process of deleting the data in the row of point management ID 402a "00000001" stored in point management DB 402 may be carried out, so that the security codes do not match and it will no longer be possible to carry out the process of exchanging it for points using the mobile device P.

The system may also be configured to allow players to use their points to enter a lottery in which they can win merchandise such as electronic money. In this case, when exchanging points for merchandise, players carry out the procedure to enter the merchandise. Then, when the application deadline or the total number of applications has reached the deadline or other application closing conditions have been met, the points association will hold a lottery and send the winning merchandise to the winner.

If the application deadline is used as the application deadline, the prize can be determined based on the total number of applications. For example, the points association can make a profit by setting the number of points required to apply for the prize that will be shipped if the winner is selected as fewer than the total number of application points obtained by multiplying the points required to apply by the total number of applications.

The system may also be configured to allow points to be donated. In this case, the player will carry out the donation procedure when exchanging points for merchandise. Then, when the player has carried out the donation procedure, the points association will carry out the donation procedure to a specified organization.

Note that points are issued by reading with the mobile terminal P a two-dimensional code printed on a receipt issued by the point exchange device 1, but this is not limited to this, and points may be issued by operating the point exchange device 1 without using the mobile terminal P. This allows even players who do not possess a mobile terminal P to exchange points for prizes 50.

A tablet PC or a mobile device P may also be installed near the point exchange device 1. In this case, a player who does not have a mobile device P can still exchange points for prizes 50.

In this way, according to the product exchange system of the present invention, first, a player acquires gaming media by playing gaming machines installed in an amusement facility. The amusement facility then exchanges the gaming media acquired by the player for prizes 50. The shop then exchanges the prizes 50 held by the player for points. The player then uses the exchanged points to exchange for products. This makes it possible to provide a product exchange system that allows for exchange for products outside the amusement facility without keeping the amusement facility staff busy.

Furthermore, according to the product exchange system of the present invention, wholesalers purchase points from the points association and sell the purchased points to the exchange. This allows for smooth issuance of points to shops.

Furthermore, according to the product exchange system of the present invention, a shop deposits a money with a wholesaler, and the wholesaler issues the points to the exchange within the amount of the deposit received from the exchange. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which the wholesaler is unable to collect cash from the shop.

In addition, according to the product exchange method of the present invention, by exchanging points for prizes and points for prizes by the steps of exchanging game media acquired by playing the gaming machine for prizes, exchanging points for prizes by the gaming establishment, and exchanging points for prizes, it is possible to provide a product exchange method that allows exchanges for products outside the gaming establishment without keeping the gaming establishment staff busy.

The gaming establishment constitutes the gaming establishment of the present invention.

The shop also constitutes the exchange of the present invention.

The wholesaler also constitutes the wholesaler of the present invention.

The points association also constitutes the points association of the present invention.

"Amusement machines" refers to pachinko and slot machines installed in gaming establishments.

In addition, "gaming media" refers to the gaming balls and gaming medals required to play pachinko and slot machine gaming machines installed in gaming establishments.

In addition, while the "prize" has been described using prize 50 as an example, it is not limited to this and other prizes may also be used.

In addition, the "product" is different from the prize 50, and although product A, product B, product C, etc. have been used as examples, the present invention is not limited to these and any product may be used.

The above embodiments and variations are merely examples and may be modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the present invention.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Point exchange device 2 Liquid crystal display device 2a Touch panel sensor 3 Prize insertion section 3a First prize insertion section 3b Second prize insertion section 3c Third prize insertion section 4 Prize return section 5 Camera 6 Speaker 6a Right speaker 6b Left speaker 7 Paper outlet 8 Two-dimensional code reading section 9 Prize removal section 9a Door section 9b Key section 10 Control board 11 CPU
12 ROM
13 RAM
14 I/O port 15 Prize reading section 16 Printing section 17 Communication section 18 Power supply section 20 Prize counting device 21 Prize placement section 22 Lid section 23 Counting start button 24 Counting end button 30 Indoor counting result display device 31 Indoor first prize display section 32 Indoor second prize display section 33 Indoor third prize display section 34 Indoor point display section 40 Outdoor counting result display device 41 Outdoor first prize display section 42 Outdoor second prize display section 43 Outdoor third prize display section 44 Outdoor point display section 50 Prize 51 First prize 51a First prize chip 52 Second prize 52a Second prize chip 53 Third prize 53a Third prize chip 60 Tablet PC
100 Member management system 101 Member management server 102 Member management DB
102a Member ID storage area 102b Name storage area 102c Address storage area 102d Terminal identification information storage area 102e Phone number storage area 102f Email address storage area 102g Password storage area 102h Age storage area 102i Gender storage area 200 Purchasing management system 201 Purchasing management server 202 Purchasing management DB
202a Purchase ID storage area 202b Purchase date storage area 202c Exchange device ID storage area 202d Purchaser storage area 202e Purchased product storage area 202f Scheduled shipping date storage area 202g Shipping destination storage area 202h Purchaser member telephone number storage area 300 Product management system 301 Product management server 302 Product management DB
302a Product ID storage area 302b Product name storage area 302c Product description storage area 302d Category storage area 302e Image data storage area 302f Stock quantity storage area 302g Required points storage area 302h Expiration date storage area 302i Purchase price storage area 302j Supplier storage area 400 Point management system 401 Point management server 402 Point management DB
402a Point ID storage area 402b Update date and time storage area 402c Shop storage area 402d Point management DB exchange device ID storage area 402e Point management DB member ID storage area 402f Member name storage area 402g Updated points storage area 402h Expiration date storage area 402i Security code storage area 500 Deposit management system 501 Deposit management server 502 Deposit DB
502a Deposit management ID storage area 502b Deposit update date and time storage area 502c Shop storage area for deposit management DB 502d Exchange device ID storage area for deposit management DB 502e Deposit amount storage area 502f Exchange points storage area 600 Gaming store member management system 601 Gaming store member management server 602 Gaming store member management DB
602a Game store member management ID storage area 602b Game store member name storage area 602c Member address storage area 602d Member phone number storage area 602e Member email address storage area 602f Member password storage area 602g Member age storage area 602h Member gender storage area 602i Saved balls storage area 602j Saved medals storage area 602k Number of visits storage area 700 Wholesaler management system 701 Wholesaler management server 702 Wholesaler management DB
702a Wholesaler management ID storage area 702b Wholesaler time storage area 702c Wholesaler shop storage area 702d Wholesaler exchange point number storage area 702e Wholesaler remaining deposit amount storage area 800 Exchangeable point display area 900 Exchange target determination area P Mobile terminal

Claims (4)

a gaming establishment that exchanges game media acquired by playing the gaming machine for prizes;
an exchange station that uses a point exchange device to exchange the prize exchanged by the game store for points that can be exchanged for a product different from the prize;
A point management server capable of executing a process of storing information on the points;
a wholesaler that purchases the prizes from the exchange and wholesales the purchased prizes to the gaming establishment;
a point association that manages the point management server and exchanges the points exchanged by the exchange for the product;
a mobile terminal having installed thereon an application capable of executing a process for applying the points exchanged by the point exchange device;
A commodity exchange system comprising:
The point exchange device includes:
A reading process for reading the prize;
a point exchange process for exchanging the points based on the value of the prize read by the reading process;
It is possible to execute
The point exchange device or the mobile terminal on which the application is installed,
On the condition that member information is registered, a product exchange process can be executed to exchange the points for the product by causing the point management server to execute a process of storing information for subtracting the points based on the product to be exchanged for the points ,
The points association:
A product exchange system that delivers products to members based on execution of the product exchange process . The wholesaler:
2. The product exchange system according to claim 1, wherein the points are purchased from the point association and the purchased points are wholesaled to the exchange. The exchange may:
Deposit a deposit with the wholesaler;
The wholesaler:
3. The product exchange system according to claim 1, wherein the points are issued to the exchange within the range of the deposit made by the exchange. exchanging the game media acquired by playing the game machine for prizes;
A step of causing a point exchange device to execute a reading process for reading the prize;
A step of causing the point exchange device to execute a point exchange process for exchanging points based on the value of the prize read by the reading process;
installing an application capable of executing a process for applying the points exchanged by the point exchange device on a mobile terminal;
a step of causing a point management server managed by a points association and capable of storing information on the points to execute a process of storing information on the points based on the product to be exchanged, on the condition that member information is registered on the point exchange device or the mobile terminal on which an application capable of executing a process for applying the points exchanged by the point exchange device is installed, thereby executing a product exchange process for exchanging the points exchanged by the point exchange device for the product;
a step of the point association shipping the product to the member based on execution of the product exchange process;
A product exchange method, characterized in that the prize is exchanged for the points and the points are exchanged for the product by

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