JP7548142B2 - Server device, subsidy application method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a server device, a system, a method for applying for subsidies, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In recent years, various services that use biometric information have begun to become popular. For example, facial recognition is used for various procedures at airports (check-in, baggage drop-off, etc.) and hotel check-in.

In services that use facial recognition, processing occurs as follows: First, a terminal (installed at an airport or hotel) acquires a facial image of the customer and generates features (feature vectors) that characterize the facial image. The generated features are sent to a server on the network.

The server has a database that stores the biometric information and personal information (such as name and address) of users who receive services using facial recognition. When the server receives a matching request from the terminal, it searches (matches) the database and identifies the biometric information and personal information that correspond to the matching request from the terminal. The server transmits the identified personal information to the terminal, and the terminal installed at the airport or other location performs operations based on the acquired personal information.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a private lodging management server in a private lodging service system that uses video footage of guests captured on a mobile device to verify their identity and unlock the room.

JP 2018-101235 A

The payment of subsidies (grants, benefits) for consumption in tourism and other activities is being considered. However, if tourists were required to remember the amount and the payee each time they made a payment in order to apply for the subsidy, the appeal of the subsidy system would be halved. In particular, in recent years, the provision of services using biometric authentication as described above has become widespread, and although payments can be easily made using biometric authentication, having to remember the payee, etc. does not meet the needs of users.

The primary objective of the present disclosure is to provide a server device, a system, a method for applying for subsidies, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium that contribute to facilitating the application of subsidies.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a server device is provided that includes a receiving unit that receives payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by a service provider providing a service to a user and location information related to a location where the payment was made, a determining unit that, upon receiving a subsidy application request from an applicant for a subsidy, determines whether or not the applicant's payment information is eligible for a subsidy application based on the applicant's address and the location information, and an application unit that applies for the subsidy if the applicant's payment information is eligible for a subsidy.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a system is provided that includes a user terminal held by a subsidy applicant and a server device connected to the user terminal, the server device comprising: a receiving unit that receives payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by a service provider providing a service to a user and location information related to a location where the payment was made; a determining unit that, upon receiving a subsidy application request from the user terminal, determines whether the applicant's payment information is subject to a subsidy application based on the applicant's address and the location information; and an application unit that applies for the subsidy if the applicant's payment information is subject to a subsidy application.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a subsidy application method in which a service provider receives payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by providing a service to a user and location information related to the location where the payment was made, and when a subsidy application request is obtained from an applicant for a subsidy, the method determines whether the applicant's payment information is eligible for a subsidy application based on the applicant's address and the location information, and if the applicant's payment information is eligible for a subsidy application, the method applies for the subsidy.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable, non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided that stores a program for causing a computer mounted on a server device to execute the following processes: receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by a service provider providing a service to a user and location information related to the location where the payment was made; determining, upon receipt of a subsidy application request from an applicant for a subsidy, whether or not the applicant's payment information is subject to a subsidy application based on the applicant's address and the location information; and, if the applicant's payment information is subject to a subsidy application, applying for the subsidy.

According to each aspect of the present disclosure, a server device, a system, a subsidy application method, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium are provided that contribute to facilitating the application of subsidies. Note that the effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above. The present disclosure may achieve other effects instead of or in addition to the effects.

FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of an embodiment. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an authentication system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an internal configuration of a processing configuration of a user terminal according to the first embodiment; 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an internal configuration of a processing configuration of a management server according to the first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an internal configuration of a processing configuration of an authentication terminal according to the first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an internal configuration of a processing configuration of a server device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an authentication information database according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a payment information database according to the first embodiment. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of table information that defines the coordinate range of a prefectural border in the first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an operation of the authentication system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an operation of the authentication system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a server device.

First, an overview of one embodiment will be described. The reference numbers in the drawings are added to each element for convenience as an example to aid in understanding, and the description of this overview is not intended to be limiting in any way. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the blocks shown in each drawing represent functional units rather than hardware units. The connection lines between blocks in each drawing include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows are used to indicate the flow of the main signal (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. In this specification and drawings, elements that can be described in the same way may be given the same reference numbers to avoid duplicated explanations.

The server device 100 according to one embodiment includes a receiving unit 101, a determining unit 102, and an application unit 103 (see FIG. 1). The receiving unit 101 receives payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by a service provider providing a service to a user and location information related to the location where the payment was made. When the determining unit 102 acquires a subsidy application request from an applicant for a subsidy, the determining unit 102 determines whether or not the applicant's payment information is eligible for a subsidy application based on the applicant's address and the location information. The application unit 103 applies for a subsidy if the applicant's payment information is eligible for a subsidy application.

The server device 100 obtains details (payment information) regarding the user's consumption behavior from a service provider (particularly a service provider that provides a service using biometric authentication). If the consumption behavior satisfies a predetermined condition for applying for a subsidy (for example, tourism across prefectures), the server device 100 automatically calculates the amount of the subsidy to be applied for. The server device 100 applies for the subsidy using the calculated application amount. As a result, the user does not need to tally up the amount paid at tourist spots or calculate the application amount, making it easier to apply for the subsidy.

Specific embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[First embodiment]
The first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an authentication system (subsidy application system) according to the first embodiment. Referring to Figure 2, the authentication system includes a user terminal 10, a management server 20, an authentication terminal 30, and a server device 40.

The devices shown in FIG. 2 are connected by wired or wireless communication means and are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

The authentication system shown in Figure 2 includes multiple service providers. The service providers are hotel operators, retailers, etc. operating in tourist destinations, etc. The authentication system performs biometric authentication of users who visit the service providers. The service providers provide services to users identified by the biometric authentication.

When a user visits a tourist spot or the like and performs an action involving the payment of money (consumption action), the authentication system shown in Figure 2 determines whether or not the consumption action qualifies for a subsidy from a public institution. After completing the tour, the user applies for the subsidy. The authentication system supports the application for the subsidy. Specifically, the authentication system applies for subsidies collectively for all of the user's consumption actions that qualify for a subsidy application (applies on behalf of the user).

The user terminal 10 is a terminal carried by a user of the authentication system. Examples of the user terminal 10 include mobile terminal devices such as smartphones, mobile phones, game consoles, and tablets.

The user inputs various information into the system via the user terminal 10, or obtains various information from the system or service provider.

The service provider is a business entity that provides various services to users. The service provider installs and manages the management server 20 and the authentication terminal 30.

Note that while two service providers are shown in FIG. 2, this is of course not intended to limit the number of service providers. The system only needs to include at least one service provider. Note that the configuration of the service providers included in the system can be the same, so the following explanation will focus on service provider S1 and omit explanations of the other service providers.

The management server 20 is a server that controls and manages the overall business of the service provider. For example, if the service provider is a retail store, the management server 20 performs payment processing, etc. Alternatively, if the service provider is a hotel operator, the management server 20 performs check-in and check-out processing, etc., for guests.

The authentication terminal 30 is a terminal that serves as an interface for users who visit a service provider. The users receive various services via the authentication terminal 30. For example, if the service provider is a retail store, the users pay using the authentication terminal 30. Alternatively, if the service provider is a hotel operator, the users use the authentication terminal 30 to carry out check-in procedures.

The server device 40 realizes biometric authentication using biometric information. The server device 40 operates as an authentication authority in the authentication system.

The server device 40 stores the user's biometric information (e.g., a facial image or features generated from a facial image) in association with personal information (e.g., name, address, credit card information, email address, etc.).

When a user registers with the system, the server device 40 verifies the identity of the user using an identification document such as the user's passport or My Number card. The server device 40 stores biometric information and personal information regarding users whose identities have been confirmed. In other words, the information registered in the server device 40 is legitimate information whose identities have been confirmed. The server device 40 stores information regarding each of multiple users whose identities have been confirmed.

Examples of the user's biometric information include data (feature quantities) calculated from physical characteristics unique to an individual, such as the face, fingerprint, voiceprint, veins, retina, and iris pattern. Alternatively, the user's biometric information may be image data such as a face image or fingerprint image. The user's biometric information may be any information that includes the user's physical characteristics.

When a user visits a service provider, the authentication terminal 30 acquires the user's biometric information (facial image) and transmits it to the management server 20. The management server 20 generates features from the acquired biometric information and transmits an "authentication request" including the features to the server device 40.

The server device 40 processes the "authentication request" sent from the service provider and sends the authentication result to the service provider. If the authentication using the user's biometric information is successful, the server device 40 sends the user ID (identifier), personal information, etc. of the person who was successfully authenticated to the service provider (notifying the service provider of successful authentication). If the authentication fails, the server device 40 notifies the service provider of the authentication failure.

The service provider (management server 20) provides services to those who have been successfully authenticated. If the service provider is a hotel operator, the management server 20 performs procedures such as accommodation reservations, check-in, and check-out using information acquired from the server device 40. For example, when the management server 20 executes a check-out process, the management server 20 uses credit information (information for credit card settlement) acquired from the server device 40 to settle accommodation fees, etc.

Similarly, when the service provider is a retailer, the management server 20 performs payment processing for product purchases based on the credit information.

When a user (successfully authenticated person) performs an action (consumption action) that includes the payment of money, the management server 20 transmits the details to the server device 40 as "payment information." The payment information includes the user's user ID, the payment amount, the location information of the service provider (the user's visited place), etc. In other words, the management server 20 reports the payment amount and payment location information to the server device 40 for users who have completed payment.

The server device 40 stores the payment information obtained from the management server 20 in a database.

When the user has finished sightseeing, etc., the user carries out the procedure for "subsidy application" with the server device 40. Specifically, the user terminal 10 transmits a "subsidy application request" to the server device 40.

The server device 40 determines whether each consumption behavior (payment information) of the applicant stored in the database is eligible for a subsidy as stipulated by the government or other authorities. Specifically, the server device 40 determines whether each consumption behavior is eligible for the application based on the applicant's address and place visited (the address of the service provider to which the payment was made). For example, if inter-prefectural travel (travel) is the subject of a subsidy application, and the user's address is "Kanto" and the place visited is "Kansai," the consumption behavior is determined to be eligible for the subsidy.

After determining whether each consumption behavior is eligible for a subsidy application, the server device 40 calculates the total payment amount for each payment information determined to be eligible for a subsidy application. The server device 40 treats this total as the application amount to be submitted to the public institution. In this way, the server device 40 calculates the total amount paid by the user to hotel operators, etc., and applies for tourism subsidies all at once.

The public institution will pay the subsidy to a specified bank account, credit card account, etc. Note that the subsidy refund is not limited to cash, but may be points or virtual currency that can be used at various service providers. When receiving subsidies in the form of points or virtual currency, the user notifies the public institution via the server device 40 of information such as the account that will receive the points. Alternatively, when applying for a subsidy (when sending a subsidy application request), the user terminal 10 may display a GUI that acquires the user's intention regarding the means by which the subsidy is to be refunded.

Note that the configuration shown in FIG. 2 is an example and is not intended to limit the system configuration. For example, the authentication terminal 30 and management server 20 of the service provider may be integrated, and a single device may handle the operations of the service provider.

Next, we will explain the details of each device included in the authentication system according to the first embodiment.

Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the processing configuration (processing module) of the user terminal 10. Referring to Fig. 3, the user terminal 10 includes a communication control unit 201, a user registration unit 202, a subsidy application request unit 203, a message output unit 204, and a memory unit 205.

The communication control unit 201 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 201 receives data (packets) from the server device 40. The communication control unit 201 also transmits data to the server device 40. The communication control unit 201 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 201 transmits data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, the other processing modules send and receive data to and from other devices via the communication control unit 201.

The user registration unit 202 is a means for registering users for use of the authentication system. The user registration unit 202 acquires the user's biometric information (e.g., facial image), personal information (e.g., name, date of birth, gender, address, credit information, email address, etc.), and copies of identification documents (e.g., My Number card, passport), etc., using a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like.

The user's address is the address listed on the user's resident card. Credit information is the user's credit account number, etc.

The user registration unit 202 transmits the acquired information (biometric information, personal information, and identity verification documents) to the server device 40.

The subsidy application request unit 203 is a means for requesting the server device 40 to apply for a subsidy (proxy application). The subsidy application request unit 203 acquires the user's intention regarding the subsidy application using a GUI or the like. When the user wishes to apply for a subsidy, the subsidy application request unit 203 transmits a "subsidy application request" to the server device 40.

The subsidy application request includes information for identifying the applicant. For example, the name, personal number, passport number, etc. are examples of information for identifying the applicant. Alternatively, biometric information may be used as information for identifying the applicant.

The message output unit 204 is a means for outputting various messages.

The memory unit 205 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the user terminal 10.

Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the management server 20. Referring to Figure 4, the management server 20 includes a communication control unit 301, an authentication request unit 302, a function realization unit 303, a payment information transmission unit 304, and a storage unit 305.

The communication control unit 301 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 301 receives data (packets) from the server device 40. The communication control unit 301 also transmits data to the server device 40. The communication control unit 301 passes the data received from the other devices to the other processing modules. The communication control unit 301 transmits the data acquired from the other processing modules to the other devices. In this way, the other processing modules send and receive data to and from the other devices via the communication control unit 301.

The authentication request unit 302 is a means for requesting biometric authentication of a user from the server device 40. When the authentication request unit 302 acquires biometric information (facial image) of the user from the authentication terminal 30, it generates features from the facial image. The authentication request unit 302 transmits an authentication request including the generated features (biometric information) to the server device 40.

The authentication request unit 302 receives the authentication result from the server device 40. If the authentication request unit 302 obtains a successful authentication (positive response), it passes the user ID and personal information (e.g., name, age, credit information, etc.) of the person to be authenticated contained in the response to the function realization unit 303. If the authentication request unit 302 obtains a failed authentication (negative response) from the server device 40, it notifies the person to be authenticated of that fact.

The function realization unit 303 is a means for realizing functions related to the business of each service provider. If the service provider is a hotel operator, the function realization unit 303 performs check-in and check-out procedures.

When checking in a user, the function realization unit 303 identifies the corresponding reservation information using the guest's name acquired via the authentication request unit 302. The function realization unit 303 performs the check-in procedure, etc., using the identified reservation information.

When a user checks out, the function realization unit 303 identifies accommodation information using the guest's name and calculates accommodation fees, etc. The function realization unit 303 settles the calculated accommodation fees, etc. using credit information obtained from the server device 40. Specifically, the function realization unit 303 performs procedures related to billing the account, etc., indicated by the credit information.

If the service provider is a retailer, the management server 20 (function realization unit 303) of the retailer will settle the payment using the credit information obtained from the server device 40, similar to the check-out process of a hotel.

Note that payment processing using credit information (accounts at banks, credit companies, etc.) is clear to those skilled in the art and is not within the scope of the present application, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

When the function realization unit 303 performs payment processing using credit information, it passes the details to the payment information transmission unit 304.

The payment information sending unit 304 is a means for sending payment information to the server device 40. The payment information sending unit 304 sends payment information to the server device 40, including the user ID of the user (successfully authenticated) who is the subject of the payment process, the payment amount, the place visited (the location of the service provider), etc. Note that the location information (latitude, longitude) of the location where the service was provided to the user is used as the address of the service provider.

The memory unit 305 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the management server 20.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the authentication terminal 30. Referring to Fig. 5, the authentication terminal 30 includes a communication control unit 401, a biometric information acquisition unit 402, a message output unit 403, and a storage unit 404.

The communication control unit 401 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 401 receives data (packets) from the management server 20. The communication control unit 401 also transmits data to the management server 20. The communication control unit 401 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 401 transmits data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, the other processing modules send and receive data to and from other devices via the communication control unit 401.

The biometric information acquisition unit 402 is a means for controlling the camera device to acquire the biometric information (e.g., a facial image) of the user. The biometric information acquisition unit 402 transmits the acquired biometric information to the management server 20.

The message output unit 403 is a means for outputting various messages using devices such as an LCD panel and a speaker. The message output unit 403 notifies the user of messages from the management server 20 (messages according to the authentication result) and procedural messages (messages during the check-in procedure).

The memory unit 404 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the authentication terminal 30.

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the server device 40. Referring to Fig. 6, the server device 40 includes a communication control unit 501, a user registration unit 502, an authentication request processing unit 503, a payment information processing unit 504, a subsidy application unit 505, and a memory unit 506.

The communication control unit 501 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 501 receives data (packets) from the management server 20. The communication control unit 501 also transmits data to the management server 20. The communication control unit 501 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 501 transmits data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, the other processing modules transmit and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 501. The communication control unit 501 operates as a receiving unit that receives payment information, subsidy application requests, etc.

The user registration unit 502 is a means for realizing the system registration of a user. The user registration unit 502 acquires biometric information, personal information, identification documents, etc. from the user (user terminal 10).

When the user registration unit 502 acquires the above information, it performs identity verification (personal identity confirmation) of the applicant for system registration. Specifically, the user registration unit 502 verifies whether the acquired biometric information (facial image) substantially matches the facial image printed on the identification document. If the two facial images substantially match, the user registration unit 502 determines that the identity verification of the applicant has been successful.

In addition, the user registration unit 502 generates features (feature vectors) from the two facial images, and determines that the two facial images substantially match if the distance between the feature vectors (such as Euclidean distance) is greater than a threshold value.

When the user registration unit 502 has successfully verified the identity of the applicant, it generates a user ID (identifier) for uniquely identifying the user. For example, the user registration unit 502 may assign a unique value each time a user is registered as the user ID.

The user registration unit 502 registers the user ID, biometric information (feature values, facial image), personal information, identification documents, etc. in the authentication information database. The authentication information database stores the user ID, biometric information, personal information, identification documents, etc. in association with each other (see FIG. 7). As shown in FIG. 7, the authentication information database stores the user's user ID, biometric information, and personal information in association with each other.

The authentication request processing unit 503 is a means for processing an authentication request obtained from the management server 20. The authentication request processing unit 503 obtains biometric information (feature amount) from the authentication request obtained from the management server 20.

The authentication request processing unit 503 sets the acquired feature quantity as the matching side and the feature quantity stored in the authentication information database as the registration side, and performs 1:N matching (N is a positive integer, the same below). If the result of the matching process shows that a feature quantity that substantially matches the feature quantity on the matching side is registered in the authentication information database, the authentication request processing unit 503 determines that the authentication is successful. In this case, the authentication request processing unit 503 sends a positive response to the management server 20. If the result of the matching process shows that a feature quantity that substantially matches the feature quantity on the matching side is not registered in the authentication information database, the authentication request processing unit 503 determines that the authentication has failed. In this case, the authentication request processing unit 503 sends a negative response to the management server 20.

If the authentication is successful, the authentication request processing unit 503 sends a response to the management server 20 that includes the user ID and personal information (e.g., name, credit information, etc.) of the person who was successfully authenticated.

The payment information processing unit 504 is a means for processing payment information acquired from the service provider (management server 20). The payment information processing unit 504 manages the payment information by classifying it for each user. Specifically, when the payment information processing unit 504 acquires the payment information, it registers the payment information in a payment information database.

Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a payment information database. As shown in Figure 8, the payment information database stores the payment amount and the visited place for each user ID. As shown in Figure 8, the visited place field stores the location information of the service provider. Note that for ease of understanding, Figure 8 lists the regional name of each visited place (Kanto, Kansai).

When the payment information processing unit 504 obtains payment information from the management server 20, it extracts the user ID and uses the user ID as a key to identify the corresponding entry (a user ID stored in the payment information database). The payment information processing unit 504 adds the values included in the payment information to the payment amount field and the visited location field of the identified user ID.

Note that the payment information database shown in FIG. 8 is an example and is not intended to limit the information to be stored. For example, the payment information database may also store the date and time when the payment information was acquired.

The subsidy application unit 505 is a means for applying for a subsidy in response to a request from a user. The subsidy application unit 505 receives a subsidy application request from the user terminal 10. The subsidy application unit 505 acquires information identifying the user from the subsidy application request (e.g., name, personal number, etc.). The subsidy application unit 505 searches the authentication information database using the acquired name, etc. as a key, and identifies the corresponding entry.

The subsidy application unit 505 reads the user ID, address, and credit information from the identified entry.

The subsidy application unit 505 searches the payment information database using the read user ID as a key to identify the corresponding user ID. The subsidy application unit 505 compares the applicant's address with each visited place associated with the identified user ID, and determines whether the consumption behavior stored in the payment information database is eligible for a subsidy application.

For example, consider the case where the applicant's address is in "Kanto." In this case, in the example of Figure 8, the consumption in lines 1 to 3 of the applicant's (user U1) four consumption actions were made in Kansai, and therefore it is determined that the consumption is eligible for the subsidy application. On the other hand, the consumption in line 4 of the applicant's four consumption actions was made in Kanto, the same region as the applicant's address, and therefore is not eligible for the subsidy application.

In this way, the subsidy application unit 505 determines whether the applicant's actions qualify for a subsidy application based on the applicant's address and the place visited by the applicant (the location of the service provider).

It goes without saying that the subsidy application unit 505 makes the above determination in accordance with the application criteria for the subsidy. For example, if a condition of a subsidy application is that the "prefecture" of the applicant's address is different from the "prefecture" of the place visited, the subsidy application unit 505 may determine whether the applicant's movement crosses prefectures. In this case, the subsidy application unit 505 may use table information (see FIG. 9) of the location range (e.g., a rectangular range defined by the coordinates of four points) that defines the prefectural borders between prefectures to determine whether the two pieces of location information belong to different prefectures or to the same prefecture.

Alternatively, if a condition for receiving a subsidy is that the applicant's address and the place to be visited are a specified distance apart, the subsidy application unit 505 calculates the distance between the two locations (address, place to be visited) and determines whether or not the applicant is eligible for a subsidy application based on that distance.

The subsidy application unit 505 adds up the payment amounts for payments (consumption behavior) that are determined to be eligible for a subsidy. In the example of Figure 8, the total payment amount of 70,000 yen for user U1 on lines 1 to 3 is calculated as the application amount.

The subsidy application unit 505 submits a subsidy application including the application amount to a public institution (e.g., the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry). For example, the subsidy application unit 505 submits information such as the applicant's name, the transfer destination of the subsidy (credit information, etc.), the application amount, etc. to a server of the public institution, etc.

The memory unit 506 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the server device 40.

[System Operation]
Next, a description will be given of the operation of the authentication system according to the first embodiment. Note that the description of the operation will focus on collection of payment information and application for subsidies, and a description of user registration and the like will be omitted.

Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the authentication operation of the authentication system according to the first embodiment.

The management server 20 sends an authentication request for the user in front of the authentication terminal 30 to the server device 40 (step S01).

In response to receiving the authentication request, the server device 40 executes authentication processing (step S02).

The server device 40 transmits the authentication result (authentication successful, authentication failed) to the management server 20 (step S03). If the authentication is successful, the server device 40 transmits a response including the user ID and personal information of the person who was successfully authenticated.

When the management server 20 receives a successful authentication, it provides services using the acquired personal information, etc. (step S04).

At that time, if the user pays the money, the management server 20 transmits the payment information to the server device 40 (step S05).

The server device 40 stores the received payment information in the payment information database (step S06).

Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a subsidy application operation of the authentication system according to the first embodiment.

A user who wishes to apply for a subsidy inputs this information into the user terminal 10. The user terminal 10 transmits a subsidy application request to the server device 40 (step S11).

The server device 40 extracts the name, etc. from the subsidy application request and identifies the applicant (step S12).

The server device 40 refers to the payment information database and determines whether each payment information (consumption behavior) of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application (step S13). If there is no payment information that is the subject of the application, the server device 40 sends a negative response (subsidy application is not possible) to the user terminal 10.

If payment information for the application exists, the server device 40 adds up the payment amounts for each payment information and calculates the application amount (step S14).

The server device 40 transmits the subsidy application, including the application amount, to a server of a public institution, etc. (step S15).

The server device 40 transmits a response to the subsidy application request (step S16). If the application is normally accepted by the server of the public institution, etc., the server device 40 transmits a positive response (application accepted) to the user terminal 10. If the application is not normally accepted, the server device 40 transmits a negative response (application not accepted) to the user terminal 10.

As described above, the server device 40 according to the first embodiment receives payment information including the payment amount related to the payment generated by the service provider providing the service to the user and the location information (visited place) related to the place where the payment was made. When the server device 40 acquires a subsidy application request from a subsidy applicant, the server device 40 judges whether the applicant's payment information (consumption behavior) is subject to a subsidy application based on the applicant's address and the applicant's visited place. If the applicant's payment information is subject to a subsidy application, the server device 40 calculates the application amount and applies for the subsidy (lump sum application for subsidy). In this way, the server device 40 automatically calculates the subsidy application amount, etc., so there is no need for the user to tally up the amount paid at the tourist spot or calculate the application amount. As a result, the user can easily apply for a subsidy.

Next, the hardware of each device that constitutes the authentication system will be described. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of server device 40.

The server device 40 can be configured by an information processing device (so-called a computer) and has the configuration shown in FIG. 12. For example, the server device 40 has a processor 311, a memory 312, an input/output interface 313, a communication interface 314, etc. The components such as the processor 311 are connected by an internal bus or the like and are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

However, the configuration shown in FIG. 12 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the server device 40. The server device 40 may include hardware not shown, and may not include an input/output interface 313 as necessary. In addition, the number of processors 311 and the like included in the server device 40 is not intended to be limited to the example shown in FIG. 12, and for example, the server device 40 may include multiple processors 311.

The processor 311 is, for example, a programmable device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Alternatively, the processor 311 may be a device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The processor 311 executes various programs including an operating system (OS).

Memory 312 is a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. Memory 312 stores the OS program, application programs, and various data.

The input/output interface 313 is an interface for a display device and an input device (not shown). The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The input device is, for example, a device that accepts user operations such as a keyboard or a mouse.

The communication interface 314 is a circuit, module, etc. that communicates with other devices. For example, the communication interface 314 includes a NIC (Network Interface Card), etc.

The functions of the server device 40 are realized by various processing modules. For example, the processing modules are realized by the processor 311 executing a program stored in the memory 312. The program can be recorded on a computer-readable medium that can be read by a computer. The computer-readable medium can be a non-transitory medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical recording medium. In other words, the present disclosure can also be embodied as a computer program product. The program can be downloaded via a network or updated using a computer-readable medium that stores the program. Furthermore, the processing modules may be realized by a semiconductor chip.

In addition, the user terminal 10, management server 20, authentication terminal 30, etc. can also be configured using information processing devices, just like the server device 40, and their basic hardware configurations are no different from those of the server device 40, so a description of them will be omitted.

The server device 40 is equipped with a computer, and the functions of the server device 40 can be realized by having the computer execute a program. The server device 40 also executes the subsidy application method by means of the program.

[Modification]
The configuration, operation, and the like of the authentication system described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the system configuration, and the like.

In the above embodiment, the server device 40 calculates the application amount in response to a subsidy application request from a user, and submits multiple subsidy applications in a batch. However, the server device 40 may submit a subsidy application each time the user makes a consumption purchase at a tourist spot. Specifically, each time the subsidy application unit 505 of the server device 40 acquires payment information, it determines whether the acquired payment information is subject to a subsidy application. If the payment information is subject to a subsidy application, the subsidy application unit 505 applies for a subsidy using the payment amount as the application amount.

Alternatively, the server device 40 may apply for the subsidy in multiple installments. For example, when the payment information for which the application is made reaches a predetermined number, the server device 40 may apply for the subsidy.

In the above embodiment, when applying for a subsidy, it is determined whether the user's consumption behavior is subject to a subsidy application. This determination may be made when the payment information is received. Specifically, the payment information processing unit 504 of the server device 40 determines whether the payment information is subject to a subsidy application when receiving the payment information. If the payment information is subject to an application, the payment information processing unit 504 stores information indicating that the information is subject to an application when storing the information in the payment information database. For example, an application subject flag field is provided in the payment information database. When registering payment information that is subject to a subsidy application in the database, the payment information processing unit 504 sets "1" in the application subject flag field. When calculating the application amount, the subsidy application unit 505 may calculate the total payment amount of entries for which "1" is set in the application subject flag field.

In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the identity of a user is confirmed when the user registers with the system. However, the identity confirmation may also be performed by the public institution that accepts the subsidy application. That is, when applying for a subsidy, the user (user terminal 10) inputs an identity confirmation document into the server device 40. The server device 40 may submit the identity document to the public institution when applying for a subsidy.

The server device 40 may issue to the user terminal 10 a user ID generated when the user registered with the system. The user terminal 10 may use the issued user ID instead of a name or the like as information to identify the applicant.

In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which biometric information related to "feature amounts generated from a facial image" is transmitted from the management server 20 to the server device 40. However, biometric information related to a "facial image" may also be transmitted from the management server 20 to the server device 40. In this case, the server device 40 may generate feature amounts from the acquired facial image and execute authentication processing (matching processing).

In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which a behavioral history of a user is generated using biometric authentication in the authentication terminal 30. However, a behavioral history may be generated based on other information. For example, a behavioral history may be generated using reservation information (hotel reservation information) or location information obtained from a GPS (Global Positioning System) signal.

In the above embodiment, the location information of the service provider is expressed by latitude and longitude, but location information may be generated on a facility-by-facility basis. For example, the location visited may be in the form of "shopping mall A."

In the above embodiment, it is assumed that the user's movement from his/her place of residence to another area (movement for tourism) is the subject of the subsidy application (subsidy refund). If the conditions for the subsidy application are different from the above conditions, the server device 40 may determine whether the user's consumption behavior (payment information) is subject to the subsidy application according to the different conditions. Alternatively, information for realizing the determination may be provided to the server device 40 by the service provider. For example, the management server 20 may transmit payment information including information on its own industry (industry information) to the server device 40. For example, if the service provider is a hotel operator, the management server 20 sets the industry information to "hotel" and transmits it to the server device 40. If the condition for the subsidy application is consumption in a specific industry (e.g., accommodation industry, event management), the server device 40 may refer to the industry information registered in the payment information database to determine whether the subsidy application is acceptable. With this kind of response, it is also possible to deal with the case where the subsidy payment condition is that the user (tourist) visits a tourist destination (pleasure spot), regardless of the user's (tourist's) address.

Alternatively, payment information may be sent to the server device 40 only from service providers that are the subject of a subsidy application. In this case, since the service provider determines whether or not the user's consumption behavior is subject to a subsidy application, the server device 40 may calculate the total of the payment amounts registered in the payment information database as the application amount.

In the above embodiment, the server device 40 applies for a subsidy to a public institution. However, the user may apply for a subsidy himself/herself. Specifically, the server device 40 generates documents (electronic files) for the subsidy application and transmits the documents to the user terminal 10. The user may print out the obtained application documents and submit them to the public institution.

In the above embodiment, the server device 40 applies for a subsidy in response to receiving a subsidy application from a user. However, the server device 40 may apply for a subsidy in response to other conditions or information. For example, before sightseeing (traveling), the user inputs to the server device 40 that he/she wishes to receive a subsidy refund. When the period eligible for the subsidy refund (the period during which the consumption behavior eligible for subsidy was performed) has elapsed, the server device 40 applies for a subsidy for the user who has previously indicated his/her intention to receive a subsidy refund. That is, the server device 40 may determine whether the date and time of receipt of the payment information is included in the subsidy refund period and determine whether the consumption behavior corresponds to the subsidy application.

The form of data transmission and reception between each device (user terminal 10, management server 20, authentication terminal 30, server device 40) is not particularly limited, but data transmitted and received between these devices may be encrypted. Biometric information is transmitted and received between these devices, and in order to appropriately protect the biometric information, it is desirable to transmit and receive encrypted data.

In the flow diagrams (flowcharts, sequence diagrams) used in the above explanation, multiple steps (processes) are described in order, but the order in which the steps are executed in the embodiment is not limited to the order described. In the embodiment, the order of the steps shown in the diagrams can be changed to the extent that does not interfere with the content, such as executing each process in parallel.

The above embodiments have been described in detail to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, and it is not intended that all of the configurations described above are necessary. Furthermore, when multiple embodiments are described, each embodiment may be used alone or in combination. For example, it is possible to replace part of the configuration of an embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, or to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of an embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace part of the configuration of an embodiment with other configurations.

The above explanation makes clear the industrial applicability of this disclosure, and this disclosure can be suitably applied to authentication systems that support users in applying for subsidies.

A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but is not limited to, the following supplementary notes.
[Appendix 1]
a receiving unit that receives payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated when a service provider provides a service to a user and location information related to a location where the payment is made;
a determination unit that, when receiving a subsidy application request from a subsidy applicant, determines whether or not the payment information of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the applicant;
an application unit that applies for the subsidy when the payment information of the applicant is a target for the application of the subsidy;
A server device comprising:
[Appendix 2]
The determination unit determines whether each of the plurality of pieces of payment information related to the applicant is eligible for the subsidy application,
The server device described in Appendix 1, wherein the application unit sets the total amount of payment information determined to be the application target among the multiple payment information as the application amount for the subsidy.
[Appendix 3]
A user terminal owned by the grant applicant;
A server device connected to the user terminal;
Including,
The server device includes:
a receiving unit that receives payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated when a service provider provides a service to a user and location information related to a location where the payment is made;
a determination unit that, when receiving a subsidy application request from the user terminal, determines whether or not the payment information of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the applicant;
an application unit that applies for the subsidy when the payment information of the applicant is a target for the application of the subsidy;
A system comprising:
[Appendix 4]
receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment made by a service provider to a user and location information related to a place where the payment was made;
When a subsidy application request is received from a subsidy applicant, it is determined whether the payment information of the applicant is eligible for a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the applicant;
A subsidy application method, comprising: applying for the subsidy if the applicant's payment information is subject to a subsidy application.
[Appendix 5]
A computer installed in the server device
receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by a service provider in providing a service to a user and location information related to a location where the payment was made;
When a subsidy application request is received from a subsidy applicant, a process of determining whether or not the payment information of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the applicant;
If the payment information of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application, a process of applying for the subsidy;
A non-transitory computer readable medium storing a program for executing the method.

The disclosures of the above cited prior art documents are incorporated herein by reference. Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that these embodiments are merely examples, and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In other words, the present disclosure naturally includes the entire disclosure, including the scope of the claims, and various modifications and amendments that a person skilled in the art could make in accordance with the technical ideas.

10 User terminal 20 Management server 30 Authentication terminal 40, 100 Server device 101 Receiving unit 102 Judgment unit 103 Application unit 201, 301, 401, 501 Communication control unit 202, 502 User registration unit 203 Subsidy application request unit 204, 403 Message output unit 205, 305, 404, 506 Storage unit 302 Authentication request unit 303 Function realization unit 304 Payment information transmission unit 311 Processor 312 Memory 313 Input/output interface 314 Communication interface 402 Biometric information acquisition unit 503 Authentication request processing unit 504 Payment information processing unit 505 Subsidy application unit

Claims (15)

a receiving unit that receives, from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider, payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service is provided to the user;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the user;
an application unit that applies for the subsidy when a predetermined number of pieces of payment information determined to be eligible for the subsidy application have been received;
A server device comprising: The computer
receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by the service provider in response to the provision of the service to the user who visited the service provider and location information related to the location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
determining whether the payment information of the user is eligible for a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the user;
When the payment information determined to be eligible for the subsidy application reaches a predetermined number, the application for the subsidy is made.
How to apply for a grant. receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment made by a service provider to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
A process of determining whether or not the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the user;
A process of applying for the subsidy when a predetermined number of pieces of payment information determined to be eligible for the subsidy have been received;
A program that causes a computer to execute the following. a receiving unit that receives, from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider, payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service is provided to the user;
a determination unit that, when the payment information is received, determines whether the payment information is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and the location information of the user;
a registration unit that, when it is determined that the payment information is a subsidy application target, registers the payment information in a database in association with information indicating that the payment information is a subsidy application target;
An application unit that applies for the subsidy for payment information associated with the information indicating that the application is made;
A server device comprising: The computer
receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated by the service provider in response to the provision of the service to the user who visited the service provider and location information related to the location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
When the payment information is received, it is determined whether the payment information is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and the location information of the user;
If it is determined that the payment information is the subject of a subsidy application, the payment information is associated with information indicating that the payment information is the subject of the application and registered in a database;
Applying for the subsidy for the payment information associated with the information indicating that the application is made;
How to apply for a grant. receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment made by a service provider to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
When the payment information is received, a process of determining whether the payment information is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the user;
If it is determined that the payment information is subject to a subsidy application, a process of registering the payment information in a database in association with information indicating that the payment information is subject to the application;
A process of applying for the subsidy for the payment information associated with the information indicating that the application is made;
A program that causes a computer to execute the following. a receiving unit that receives, from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of services by the service provider, payment information including a settlement amount related to a settlement generated when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider, location information related to a location where the service was provided to the user, and business type information related to the service provider;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application based on the address of the user, the location information, and the business type information of the user;
an application unit that applies for the subsidy when the payment information of the user is a target for applying for the subsidy;
A server device comprising: The computer
receiving payment information from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of services by the service provider, the payment information including a settlement amount related to a settlement generated when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider, location information related to the location where the service was provided to the user, and business type information related to the service provider;
determining whether or not the payment information of the user is eligible for a subsidy application based on the address of the user, the location information, and the business type information;
If the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application, applying for the subsidy ;
How to apply for a grant. receiving payment information, including a settlement amount related to a settlement generated when a service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider, location information related to the location where the service was provided to the user, and business type information related to the service provider, from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
A process of determining whether or not the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application based on the address of the user, the location information, and the business type information;
If the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application, a process of applying for the subsidy;
A program that causes a computer to execute the following. a receiving unit that receives, from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider, payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service is provided to the user;
a determination unit that, when a subsidy application request made by the user as a subsidy applicant is acquired from the user terminal of the user, determines whether or not the payment information of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the applicant;
A transmission unit that generates application document data for applying for the subsidy when the payment information of the applicant is the subject of an application for the subsidy and transmits the application document data to the user terminal;
A server device comprising: The computer
receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment made by the service provider in response to the provision of the service to the user who visited the service provider and location information related to the location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
When a subsidy application request made by the user as a subsidy applicant is obtained from the user terminal of the user, it is determined whether or not the payment information of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the applicant;
If the payment information of the applicant is the subject of a subsidy application, generating application document data for applying for the subsidy and transmitting the application document data to the user terminal.
How to apply for a grant. receiving payment information including a payment amount related to a payment made by a service provider to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
When a subsidy application request made by the user as a subsidy applicant is acquired from the user terminal of the user, a process of determining whether or not the payment information of the applicant is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the applicant;
If the payment information of the applicant is the subject of a subsidy application, a process of generating application document data for applying for the subsidy and transmitting the application document data to the user terminal;
A program that causes a computer to execute the following. a receiving unit that receives a subsidy application request from a user terminal of a user of a service provided by a service provider before the user uses the service, and receives payment information including a payment amount related to a payment generated when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that performs processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
a determination unit that, when the payment information is received during a subsidy refund period related to the subsidy application request, determines whether or not the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the user;
an application unit that applies for the subsidy when the payment information of the user is a target for applying for the subsidy;
A server device comprising: The computer
receiving a subsidy application request from a user terminal of a user of the service before the user uses the service provided by the service provider;
receiving payment information, including a payment amount related to a payment made by the service provider when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to a location where the service was provided to the user, from a management server that processes the provision of the service by the service provider;
When the payment information is received during a subsidy refund period related to the subsidy application request, it is determined whether or not the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the user;
If the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application, applying for the subsidy;
How to apply for a grant. A process of receiving a subsidy application request from a user terminal of a user of a service provided by a service provider before the user uses the service, and receiving payment information including a settlement amount related to a settlement incurred when the service provider provides a service to a user who visits the service provider and location information related to the location where the service was provided to the user from a management server that processes processing related to the provision of the service by the service provider;
When the payment information is received during a subsidy refund period related to the subsidy application request, a process of determining whether or not the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application based on the address and location information of the user;
If the payment information of the user is subject to a subsidy application, a process of applying for the subsidy;
A program that causes a computer to execute the following.

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