JP7617393B2 - Communication system and image display device - Google Patents

Description

The technology disclosed in this specification relates to technology for displaying images corresponding to the services a user receives.

In recent years, users have been receiving services from stores, government agencies, etc. (hereafter referred to as "stores, etc.") using membership cards, coupons, etc. (hereafter referred to as "membership cards, etc.").

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-338964

As services become more diverse, membership cards and other items also tend to become more diverse. It is difficult to revise the systems at stores and other counters to accommodate the increasing diversity of membership cards and other items. It is also difficult to unify the diverse membership cards and other items into one type.

This specification provides technology to handle the increasing diversity of membership cards, etc.

The communication system disclosed in this specification includes a first input device capable of receiving an input of information in response to an operation of a user visiting a first area, a second input device capable of receiving an input of information in response to an operation of the user visiting a second area different from the first area, a first display device capable of displaying an image, a second display device capable of displaying an image, and a server capable of communicating with the first input device, the second input device, the first display device, and the second display device, wherein the first input device and the first display device are installed in the first area, and the second input device and the second display device are installed in the second area. the server includes a database that stores specific common information, first device identification information that identifies the first input device, and first service information that indicates a first service in association with each other, and that stores the specific common information, second device identification information that identifies the second input device, and second service information that indicates a second service different from the first service in association with each other, and when accepting input of the specific common information in response to an operation of the user, the first input device transmits the input specific common information and the first device identification information to the server, and the server transmits the specific common information and the first device identification information to the server, and when the specific common information is received from the server, the first display device acquires the first service information stored in association with both the specific common information and the first device identification information from the database, and transmits first image information indicating a first image corresponding to the acquired first service information to the first display device, and when the first display device receives the first image information from the server, the first display device displays the first image indicated by the first image information and corresponding to the first service, and when the second input device accepts input of the specific common information in response to an operation of the user, the second input device transmits the first service information indicating a first image corresponding to the acquired first service information to the first display device. When the server receives the specific common information from the second input device, the server acquires the second service information stored in association with both the specific common information and the second device identification information from the database, and transmits second image information indicating a second image corresponding to the acquired second service information to the second display device, and when the second display device receives the second image information from the server, the second display device displays the second image indicated by the second image information and corresponding to the second service different from the first service.

According to this configuration, when the first input device accepts input of specific common information in the first area, the first display device displays a first image corresponding to the first service. On the other hand, when the second input device accepts input of the same specific common information in the second area, the second display device displays a second image corresponding to a second service different from the first service. As described above, a user can receive different services in the first area and the second area by using one specific common information. For example, a user can receive two different services by using one existing membership card. For example, in a situation where a membership card for a first service and a membership card for a second service have already been issued in addition to one existing membership card, it is possible to cancel the remaining membership cards while keeping only the one existing membership card. It is possible to realize unification of membership cards.

The first input device and the second input device may read the specific common information recorded in a first type of information code to accept input of the specific common information, the first image may include an image of a second type of information code that records the first service information, and the second image may include an image of the second type of information code that records the second service information.

According to this configuration, in each of the first and second areas, the first type of information code can be used to accept input of specific common information. Furthermore, in each of the first and second areas, the second type of information code can be used to perform processing to provide a service to a user.

The second type of information code may be different from the first type of information code.

For example, it is assumed that the existing systems in the first and second areas are not capable of reading the information stored in the first type of information code. With the above configuration, the first display device and the second display device can display a second type of information code different from the first type of information code, for example, an information code that can be read by the above existing systems. There is no need to modify the above existing systems.

The first input device and the second input device may receive input of the specific common information by performing authentication using biometric information of the user and acquiring the specific common information corresponding to the user.

This configuration also makes it possible to support authentication using biometric information.

The image display device disclosed in this specification is installed in a predetermined area. The image display device may include an input unit capable of accepting input of information obtainable according to a first type of method in response to an operation of a user visiting the predetermined area, a display unit capable of displaying an image, and a display control unit that causes the display unit to display a specific image corresponding to specific service information indicating a specific service, the specific image being obtained according to a second type of method different from the first type of method, when the input unit accepts input of specific information obtainable according to the first type of method in response to an operation of the user, the specific service information being stored in a database in association with the specific information.

For example, it is assumed that an existing system in a specific area does not support the acquisition of information according to a first type of method. With the above configuration, the image display device can display a specific image according to a second type of method different from the first type of method, for example, a method that is compatible with the above-mentioned existing system. There is no need to modify the above-mentioned existing system.

The first type of method may be a method for reading information in a first type of information code, and the second type of method may be a method for reading information in a second type of information code that is different from the first type of information code.

According to this configuration, it is possible to accept input of specific information in a specified area using a first type of information code. Furthermore, it is possible to perform processing to provide a service to a user in a specified area using a second type of information code.

The first type of method may be a method of performing authentication using biometric information of the user and acquiring information corresponding to the user.

This configuration also makes it possible to support authentication using biometric information.

The display control unit may cause the display unit to display the specific image when the number of times the specific information has been used is less than a predetermined upper limit, and may not display the specific image when the number of times the information has been used is equal to the upper limit.

This configuration allows you to limit the number of times specific information can be used.

Another communication system disclosed in this specification includes an input device capable of accepting input of information obtainable according to a first type of method in response to an operation of a user visiting a specified area, a display device capable of displaying an image, and a server capable of communicating with the input device and the display device, the input device and the display device being installed in the specified area, the server having a database that stores specific information and specific service information indicating a specific service in association with each other, the input device, when accepting input of specific information obtainable according to the first type of method in response to an operation of the user, transmits the input specific information to the server, the server, when receiving the specific information from the input device, obtains the specific service information stored in association with the specific information from the database, and transmits to the display device specific image information indicating the specific image according to a second type of method different from the first type of method, which is a specific image corresponding to the obtained specific service information, and the display device, when receiving the image information from the server, displays the specific image indicated by the image information and corresponding to the specific service.

Even with this configuration, in a situation where an existing system in a specific area does not support the acquisition of information according to the first type of method, it is possible to display a specific image according to the second type of method that is compatible with the existing system. There is no need to modify the existing system.

The above-mentioned method for controlling an image display device, a computer program for an image display device, and a storage medium for storing the computer program are also novel and useful. The above-mentioned method for controlling a server, a computer program for a server, and a storage medium for storing the computer program are also novel and useful.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a communication system. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a communication system. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing a specific process in the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing a specific process in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing a specific process in the third embodiment. The concept and specific processing of the fourth embodiment will be described. The concept and specific processing of the fifth embodiment will be described.

(First embodiment)
(Communication system 2; Figs. 1 and 2)
The communication system 2 of this embodiment is a system for multiple stores to provide services to users. The multiple stores are included, for example, in a commercial complex. Services provided to users include, for example, discounts on products or services, free provision of products or services, etc. In this embodiment, a user (hereinafter referred to as a "visitor") who visits the commercial complex uses one coupon 500 to receive various services from multiple stores in the commercial complex. In a modified example, the multiple stores may be included in a shopping district or in a specific area (for example, a specific city, town, or prefecture).

The communication system 2 includes a plurality of stores, including stores 100 and 200, and a linkage server 10. Note that in FIG. 1, of the plurality of stores, stores 100 and 200 are shown, and the remaining stores are omitted.

Store 100 is equipped with an image display device 110, a POS 160, and a scanner 162. POS 160 is a device for tallying up product sales results. Scanner 162 is a device for scanning barcodes (e.g., product barcodes). Scanner 162 is connected to POS 160. Image display device 110 is located near POS 160 and scanner 162.

The image display device 110 is a device that reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the coupon ticket 500 and displays a barcode based on the information recorded in the two-dimensional code. For example, the POS 160 can read barcodes via the scanner 162, but cannot read two-dimensional codes. By installing the image display device 110, the two-dimensional code printed on the coupon ticket 500 can be converted into a barcode that the POS 160 can read.

Similar to store 100, store 200 is equipped with an image display device 210, a POS 260, and a scanner 262. The configurations of the devices 210, 260, and 262 are similar to those of the devices 110, 160, and 162 in store 100.

The two-dimensional code of the coupon 500 records an inquiry ID "A123456" that identifies the coupon 500. The coupon 500 is distributed to visitors, for example, at the entrance of a commercial complex. In a modified example, the coupon 500 may be distributed to visitors at a location other than the commercial complex (for example, an event venue). In another modified example, the coupon 500 may be a service voucher (for example, a regional promotion voucher) issued by the government. In another modified example, the coupon 500 is not limited to a paper medium, and may be distributed to, for example, a mobile terminal (for example, a smartphone) of the visitor.

The linking server 10 is a server that operates in cooperation with the image display devices 110 and 210. The linking server 10 is connected to the Internet 6 and can communicate with the image display devices 110 and 210 via the Internet 6. In a modified example, the linking server 10 and the image display devices 110 and 210 may be connected to a LAN.

(Configuration of link server 10; FIG. 2)
The link server 10 includes a communication interface 12 and a control unit 30. In the following, the interface will be referred to as “I/F.” The communication I/F 12 is connected to the Internet 6 and is an I/F for executing communication via the Internet 6.

The control unit 30 includes a CPU 32 and a memory 34 that is composed of a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, etc. The CPU 32 executes various processes according to a program 40 stored in the memory 34.

The memory 34 further stores a server table ST1. The server table ST1 stores, in association with each other, a device ID that identifies the image display device, an inquiry ID recorded in the two-dimensional code of the coupon, and service information related to services to be provided to visitors. The information in the server table ST1 is used for linking with multiple image display devices. The information in the server table ST1 is stored in the server table ST1 by the business that issues the coupon 500 (e.g., the business of a commercial complex).

(Configuration of image display devices 110 and 210; FIGS. 1 and 2)
The image display device 110 includes a communication I/F 112, an imaging unit 114, a display unit 116, and a control unit 130. The communication I/F 112 is connected to the Internet 6, and is an I/F for performing communication via the Internet 6.

The imaging unit 114 is, for example, a camera such as a CCD image sensor. In a modified example, the imaging unit 114 may be a component including a laser light source and a light receiving unit.

The display unit 116 is a display for displaying various images. The images include, for example, barcodes, character strings, etc. The display unit 116 may also be a touch panel capable of accepting operations from employees of the store 100.

The control unit 130 includes a CPU 132 and a memory 134. The CPU 132 executes various processes according to a program 140 stored in the memory 134.

As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging unit 114 is exposed on the front side of the image display device 110. Meanwhile, the display unit 116 is exposed on the back side of the image display device 110. The image display device 110 is installed at the cash register of the store 100. The front side of the image display device 110 faces the space on the visitor's side of the cash register. Meanwhile, the back side of the image display device 110 faces the space on the employee's side of the cash register of the store 100, i.e., the side where the POS 160 is installed. The front side of the image display device 110 is used by visitors. The back side of the image display device 110 is used by employees.

As shown in FIG. 2, the image display device 110 is assigned a device ID of "d001." The configuration of the image display device 210 is the same as that of the image display device 110, and the image display device 210 is assigned a device ID of "d002."

(Specific processing; Figure 3)
Specific processing realized by the communication system 2 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. In the following, processing executed by each CPU of each device (e.g., CPU 32 of the linking server 10, etc.) may be described as being mainly each device (e.g., linking server 10, etc.) rather than being mainly each CPU, from the viewpoint of ease of understanding. Also, the linking server 10 executes communication with the image display device (e.g., 110) via the communication I/F 12 and the Internet 6. In the following, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, the descriptions "via the communication I/F 12" and "via the Internet 6" may be omitted. Also, for the image display device, the descriptions "via the communication I/F 112" and "via the Internet 6" may be omitted.

In the case of FIG. 3, a visitor brings coupon 500 with him to store 100. Store 100 is, for example, a store that sells products such as clothing. The visitor presents coupon 500 on the front of image display device 110 at the cashier's counter of store 100.

When the coupon ticket 500 is presented, the image display device 110 captures an image of the coupon ticket 500 using the imaging unit 114 at T10.

At T12, the image display device 110 identifies a code image showing the two-dimensional code of the coupon 500 from the image captured at T10. The image display device 110 then decodes the code image and reads the inquiry ID "A123456" recorded in the two-dimensional code. That is, the image display device 110 accepts input of the inquiry ID "A123456" in response to the visitor presenting the coupon 500.

At T14, the image display device 110 transmits an information request to the linking server 10, requesting image information indicating the image to be displayed on the display unit 116. The information request includes the device ID "d001" that identifies the image display device 110, and the inquiry ID "A123456" read at T12.

When the linkage server 10 receives an information request from the image display device 110 at T14, it retrieves, from the server table ST1 at T20, the service information SI1 stored in association with both the device ID "d001" in the information request and the inquiry ID "A123456" in the information request. In this case, the service information SI1 is, for example, a discount code indicating a service that provides a 10% discount on the price of a product.

At T30, the linking server 10 converts the service information SI1 acquired at T20 into a barcode and generates image information IM1 showing an image of the barcode. The linking server 10 then transmits the image information IM1 to the image display device 110. Note that, in a modified example, the image information IM1 may be generated in advance before receiving the information request.

When the image display device 110 receives the image information IM1 from the linkage server 10 in T30, it causes the display unit 116 to display the image of the barcode indicated by the image information IM1 in T40. The employee uses the scanner 162 of the POS 160 to scan the barcode displayed on the back of the image display device 110. As a result, the service information SI1 is read by the POS 160, and the service indicated by the service information SI1 (e.g., a 10% discount service) is provided to the visitor.

Continuing with this case, a visitor brings coupon 500 and visits store 200, which is different from store 100. Store 200 is, for example, a store that sells services such as karaoke. The visitor presents coupon 500 on the front of image display device 210 at the cashier's counter of store 200.

T50 and T52 are the same as T10 and T12, except that the image display device 210 of the store 200 is used. T54 is the same as T14, except that the device ID "d002" of the image display device 210 is included in the information request. T60 is the same as T20, except that the service information SI2 stored in association with both the device ID "d002" and the inquiry ID "A123456" is acquired from the server table ST1. In this case, the service information SI2 is, for example, a free code indicating a service that makes a part of the service usage time (for example, one hour) free. T70 is the same as T30, except that image information IM2 indicating an image of a barcode of the service information SI2 is generated and transmitted. T80 is the same as T40, except that the image of the barcode indicated by the image information IM2 is displayed on the image display device 210. An employee of the store 200 uses the scanner 262 to scan the barcode displayed on the image display device 210. This provides the visitor with the service indicated by the service information SI2 (e.g., one hour free service).

According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the image display device 110 in the store 100 reads the inquiry ID "A123456" of the coupon ticket 500 (T12 in FIG. 3), it displays a barcode corresponding to a 10% discount service (T40). On the other hand, when the image display device 210 in the store 200 reads the inquiry ID "A123456" of the same coupon ticket 500 (T52), it displays a barcode corresponding to a one-hour free service different from the 10% discount service (T80). As described above, a visitor can receive different services at each of the stores 100 and 200 by using one coupon ticket 500 (i.e., one inquiry ID "A123456"). Since a visitor only needs to bring one coupon ticket 500, he or she does not need to bring multiple different coupon tickets for each store. This improves the convenience of the visitor. In addition, the operator of the commercial complex does not need to issue multiple different coupon tickets for each store. This also improves the convenience of the operator.

Also, visitors can simply present the two-dimensional code on the coupon 500 to the image display device 110, and employees can simply scan the barcode displayed on the image display device 110 with the scanner 162. There is no need to manually input the information required to provide the service, improving convenience for visitors and employees.

As described above, the POS 160 of store 100 is equipped with a scanner 162, but is unable to read two-dimensional codes. According to the configuration of this embodiment, the image display device 110 can convert the two-dimensional code and display a barcode that can be read by the existing POS 160. Employees of store 100 only need to install the image display device 110, and do not need to modify the existing POS 160. Employees of store 200 only need to install the image display device 210, and do not need to modify the existing POS 260.

(Correspondence)
The store 100 and the store 200 are examples of a "first area (and a predetermined area)" and a "second area", respectively. The communication system 2 is an example of a "communication system". The image display device 110 is an example of an "image display device, a first input device, a first display device, and an input device". The image display device 210 is an example of a "second input device and a second display device". The imaging unit 114 and the display unit 116 are examples of an "input unit" and a "display unit", respectively. The control unit 130 that executes the process of T40 in FIG. 3 is an example of a "display control unit". The link server 10 and the server table ST1 are examples of a "server" and a "database", respectively. The inquiry ID is an example of a "specific common information (and specific information)". The device IDs "d001" and "d002" are examples of a "first device identification information" and a "second device identification information", respectively. The service information SI1 and SI2 are examples of a "first service information (and specific service information)" and a "second service information", respectively. The image of the barcode T40 in Figure 3 and image information IM1 are examples of a "first image (and specific image)" and "first image information (specific image information)". The image of the barcode T80 and image information IM2 are examples of a "second image" and "second image information". The two-dimensional code and barcode are examples of a "first type of information code" and a "second type of information code", respectively. The method of reading information from a two-dimensional code and the method of reading information from a barcode are examples of a "first type of method" and a "second type of method", respectively.

Second Example
This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the linking server 10 stores a server table ST2 instead of the server table ST1.

(Server table ST2; FIG. 4)
As shown in Fig. 4, the server table ST2 stores the number of uses and the upper limit number of uses in addition to the device ID, inquiry ID, and service information in association with each other. The number of uses indicates the number of times a coupon for the corresponding inquiry ID has been used in a store where an image display device identified by the corresponding device ID is installed. The upper limit number of uses indicates the upper limit value of the corresponding number of uses. By default, the number of uses indicates "0".

(Specific process: Figure 4)
4, a specific process implemented by the communication system 2 having the server table ST2 will be described. T110 to T114 are the same as T10 to T14 in FIG.

When the linking server 10 receives an information request from the image display device 110 at T114, the linking server 10 acquires, at T120, from the server table ST2, the number of uses and the upper limit number of uses stored in association with both the device ID "d001" in the information request and the inquiry ID "A123456" in the information request. The linking server 10 then determines whether the acquired number of uses is equal to or greater than the acquired number of uses. At this point in time, the visitor is using the coupon 500 for the first time at the store 100, so the acquired number of uses indicates the default "0". Therefore, at this point in time, the linking server 10 determines that the acquired number of uses "0" is smaller than the acquired number of uses "1". Note that the cases in which the linking server 10 determines that the acquired number of uses is equal to or greater than the acquired number of uses "1" will be described later.

At the next T122, the linking server 10 increments the number of uses in the server table ST2 from "0" to "1." The next T124 to T140 are the same as T20 to T40 in FIG. 1.

In the case of FIG. 4, the visitor visits the store 100 again. T150 to T154 are the same as T110 to T114. Here, the number of uses currently indicates "1". Therefore, in T160, the linking server 10 determines that the acquired number of uses "1" is equal to or greater than the acquired number of uses "1". In the following T170, the linking server 10 transmits an error notification to the image display device 110 indicating that the number of uses of the coupon 500 has reached the upper limit.

When the image display device 110 receives an error notification from the link server 10 at T170, it causes the image indicated by the error notification to be displayed on the display unit 116 at T180.

According to the above configuration, when the number of uses is equal to the upper limit, image information IM1 is not sent to image display device 110. In other words, when the number of uses of coupon ticket 500 is equal to the upper limit, provision of services using coupon ticket 500 is restricted. It is possible to restrict the number of uses of coupon ticket 500. Also, for example, if the upper limit is set to 2 or more times, a visitor can repeatedly use coupon ticket 500 at the same store until the upper limit is reached. The number of uses and the upper limit in server table ST2 are examples of "number of uses" and "upper limit", respectively.

(Third Example)
The communication system 2 of this embodiment is a system for providing administrative services to users. In this embodiment, a user uses a library membership card 510 (see FIG. 5) to use not only the library but also other facilities provided by the administration (e.g., tennis courts, multipurpose rooms, gymnasiums, etc.).

This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the image display devices 110 and 210 are installed in different locations, and the linking server 10 stores server table ST3 instead of server table ST1. In this embodiment, the image display device 110 is installed at the reception desk of the tennis court, and the image display device 210 is installed at the reception desk of the multipurpose room.

(Library Membership Card 510; Figure 5)
5, a two-dimensional code in which a user ID "U001" is recorded is displayed on library membership card 510. User ID "U001" is an ID assigned to a user (hereinafter referred to as a "target user") who possesses library membership card 510. The target user uses user ID "U001" on library membership card 510 to make reservations for use of facilities other than the library.

(Server table ST3; FIG. 4)
5, the server table ST3 stores device IDs, user IDs, and reservation information in association with each other. The reservation information includes information about reservations for the facility in which the corresponding device ID is installed (e.g., the name of the person making the reservation, the reservation date and time, the number of people using the facility, etc.).

For example, the target user accesses the tennis court homepage and inputs the user ID "U001" and reservation information RI1 for reserving the tennis court into a terminal device. The information input by the target user is sent to the linking server 10 via a server (not shown) that manages the tennis court homepage. As a result, the linking server 10 stores the information input by the target user (i.e., the user ID "U001" and the reservation information RI1) in the server table ST3, in association with the device ID "d001" of the image display device 110 of the tennis court.

(Specific process: Figure 5)
5, a specific process realized by the communication system 2 having the server table ST3 will be described. In the case of FIG. 5, the target user visits the tennis court with the library membership card 510 after making a reservation for the tennis court. T210 is the same as T10 in FIG. 3, except that the library membership card 510 is imaged. T212 is the same as T12, except that the user ID "U001" is read from the library membership card 510. T214 is the same as T14, except that the information request includes the user ID "U001" instead of the inquiry ID "A123456". T220 is the same as T20, except that the reservation information RI1 of the tennis court is obtained from the server table ST3. T230 is the same as T30, except that the reservation information RI1 is transmitted. T240 is the same as T40, except that the image indicated by the reservation information RI1 is displayed on the image display device 110. This allows the tennis court staff to check the target user's tennis court reservations.

Next, in this case, the target user makes a reservation for the multipurpose room, and then visits the multipurpose room bringing his/her library membership card 510. T250 to T254 are similar to T210 to T214, except that the image display device 210 in the multipurpose room is used. T260 is similar to T220, except that reservation information RI2 for the multipurpose room is obtained from the server table ST3. T270 is similar to T230, except that reservation information RI2 is transmitted. T280 is similar to T240, except that an image indicated by reservation information RI2 is displayed on the image display device 210. This allows the employee of the multipurpose room to confirm the target user's reservation for the multipurpose room.

According to the configuration of this embodiment, when the image display device 110 reads the user ID "U001" of the library membership card 510 at the tennis court (T212 in FIG. 5), it displays the reservation details of the target user for the tennis court (T240). On the other hand, when the image display device 210 reads the user ID "U001" of the same library membership card 510 at the multipurpose room (T252), it displays the reservation details of the target user for the multipurpose room (T280). As described above, the target user can use one library membership card 510 (i.e., one user ID "U001") to make reservations for the tennis court and the multipurpose room, which are facilities different from the library. The target user does not need to have a different membership card for each facility because he or she only needs to use one library membership card 510. This can improve the convenience of the target user. In addition, in a situation where membership cards have already been issued for the tennis court and the multipurpose room, it is possible to cancel the remaining membership cards, leaving only the library membership card 510. It is possible to realize unification of membership cards. Note that the library membership card 510 is merely one example; for example, a tennis court membership card may be used to access services provided at other facilities (e.g., multipurpose rooms, gymnasiums, libraries, etc.).

(Correspondence)
The tennis court and the multipurpose room are examples of a "first area (and a specified area)" and a "second area", respectively. The control unit 130 that executes the process of T240 in FIG. 5 is an example of a "display control unit". The server table ST3 is an example of a "database". The user ID is an example of a "specific common information (and specific information)". The reservation information RI1 and RI2 are examples of "first service information (and specific service information)" and "second service information", respectively. The image of T40 and the reservation information RI1 in FIG. 3 are examples of "first image (and specific image)" and "first image information (specific image information)", respectively. The image of T80 and the reservation information RI2 are examples of "second image" and "second image information", respectively.

(Fourth Example)
The communication system 2 of this embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that an image display device 310 different from the image display device 110 of the first embodiment is used, and a server table ST4 different from the server table ST1 of the first embodiment is used.

(Image display device 310; FIG. 6)
The image display device 310 of this embodiment does not include the imaging unit 114. A two-dimensional code is displayed on the surface of the image display device 310. The two-dimensional code records the URL of a distribution page, which is a homepage that distributes coupons that can be used in a commercial complex. The two-dimensional code may be printed directly on the surface of the image display device 310, or may be attached as a sticker to the surface of the image display device 310. In a modified example, a display may be exposed on the surface of the image display device 310, and the two-dimensional code may be displayed on the display.

In addition to the communication I/F 12, the image display device 310 also includes a Bluetooth I/F 318 (hereinafter referred to as "BT I/F 318") for performing communication according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard (hereinafter referred to as "BT communication").

(Server table ST4; FIG. 6)
The server table ST4 of this embodiment is similar to the server table ST1 of the first embodiment, except that an account ID (e.g., "AC01") is stored instead of the inquiry ID of the coupon 500. The account ID is an ID assigned to a visitor. The account ID is used when logging in to the distribution page.

(Specific process: Figure 6)
The processing realized by the communication system 2 of this embodiment is similar to the processing realized by the communication system 2 of the first embodiment (see Figure 3), except for the difference in the method by which the image display device 110 accepts input of information to be transmitted to the linking server 10 and the difference in the information in the information request.

In the case of FIG. 6, a visitor brings a mobile terminal with him to the store 100. The visitor operates the mobile terminal to capture an image of the two-dimensional code on the surface of the image display device 310. The mobile terminal then reads the URL in the two-dimensional code and displays the delivery page indicated by the URL.

The visitor enters the account ID "AC01" and password into the input fields on the distribution page. This causes the mobile terminal to log in to the distribution page. When the mobile terminal logs in to the distribution page, it uses BT communication to transmit the logged-in account ID "AC01" to the image display device 310. That is, the image display device 310 accepts the input of the account ID "AC01" in response to the visitor operating the mobile terminal to capture an image of the two-dimensional code on the surface of the image display device 310. Here, BT communication is communication that uses an Advertise signal according to the Bluetooth method. Note that, in a modified example, BT communication may be communication after pairing between the mobile terminal and the image display device 310.

When the image display device 110 receives the account ID "AC01" from the mobile terminal via the BT I/F 318, it sends an information request including the device ID "d001" of the image display device 310 and the received account ID "AC01" to the link server 10 via the communication I/F 12.

When the linking server 10 receives an information request from the image display device 310, it acquires from the server table ST4 the service information SI1 stored in association with both the device ID "d001" and the account ID "AC01". The linking server 10 then transmits the image information IM1 generated from the acquired service information SI1 to the image display device 310. As a result, the image of the barcode indicated by the image information IM1 is displayed on the image display device 310, similar to T40 in FIG. 3 .

In addition, at store 200, the visitor operates a mobile terminal to capture an image of the two-dimensional code on the image display device (not shown) of store 200, just as at store 100. As a result, just like T80 in FIG. 3, an image of the barcode indicated by image information IM2 is displayed on the image display device 210 of store 200. In this embodiment, too, a single account ID "AC01" can be used to receive different services at store 100 and store 200.

(Correspondence)
Receiving an account ID using BT communication is an example of "accepting input of information." Also, a method of receiving an account ID using BT communication is an example of a "first type of method." Server table ST4 is an example of a "database." An account ID is an example of "specific common information (and specific information)."

Fifth Example
In the communication system 2 of this embodiment, an image display device 110 including an imaging unit 114 is used, as in the first embodiment. Also, in the communication system 2 of this embodiment, a server table ST4 is used, as in the fourth embodiment. Also, the communication system 2 of this embodiment includes an authentication server 600 capable of performing face authentication (see FIG. 7 ). The authentication server 600 is capable of communicating with the image display device 110 via the Internet 6.

(Specific case: Figure 7)
The processing realized by the communication system 2 of this embodiment is similar to the processing realized by the communication system 2 of the fourth embodiment (see Figure 6), except that the method by which the image display device 110 accepts input of information to be transmitted to the linking server 10 is different.

In the case of FIG. 7, the visitor faces the surface of the image display device 110. The image display device 110 captures an image of the visitor's face. The image display device 110 then analyzes the captured image to obtain face information indicating the visitor's facial features.

The image display device 110 transmits the acquired facial information to the authentication server 600 via the communication I/F 112. The authentication server 600 performs facial authentication using the facial information received from the image display device 110. In this case, the facial authentication is successful, so the authentication server 600 transmits the visitor's account ID "AC01" to the image display device 110. Note that if the facial authentication fails, the visitor's account ID "AC01" is not transmitted to the image display device 110, and, for example, a notification indicating that the facial authentication has failed is transmitted to the image display device 110.

The subsequent transmission of the information request and the reception of the image information IM1 are the same as in the fourth embodiment. In this case, as in the case of FIG. 6, the image of the barcode indicated by the image information IM1 is displayed on the image display device 310.

Also, in store 200, just as in store 100, the visitor faces the front of store 200's image display device 210. As a result, the image of the barcode indicated by image information IM2 is displayed on the image display device 210, just like T80 in FIG. 3. In this embodiment, just like in the fourth embodiment, a single account ID "AC01" can be used to receive different services at store 100 and store 200. Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, by using face authentication, the visitor does not need to bring a coupon 500, a mobile terminal, or the like. User convenience is improved.

(Correspondence)
Obtaining an account ID using facial recognition is an example of "accepting input of information." Also, a method of obtaining an account ID using facial recognition is an example of a "first type of method." Facial information is an example of "biometric information."

Specific examples of the technology disclosed in this specification have been described above, but these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and variations of the specific examples given above. For example, the following modifications may be adopted.

(Variation 1) The image display device 110 may not include the imaging unit 114, and the imaging unit 114 may be installed outside the image display device 110. In this variation, the external imaging unit 114 is an example of a "first input device, a second input device, and an input device." Also, the image display device 110 may not include the display unit 116, and the display unit 116 may be installed outside the image display device 110. In this variation, the external display unit 116 is an example of a "first display device, a second display device, and a display device."

(Variation 2) The image display device 110 may be equipped with a reader that reads information stored in an NFC tag, RFID tag, etc. brought by a visitor. The image display device 110 may then transmit an information request including the information read from the tag to the linked server 10. In this variation, reading information from the tag, etc. is an example of "accepting input of information." Additionally, the NFC tag, RFID tag, etc. system is an example of a "first type system."

(Variation 3) The image display device 110 may analyze the visitor's voice and acquire a specific phrase from the voice. The image display device 110 may then transmit an information request including the specific phrase to the linking server 10. In this variation, acquiring a specific phrase from the visitor's voice is an example of "accepting information input." Additionally, the method of analyzing voice to acquire a specific phrase is an example of a "first type of method."

(Variation 4) The "first image, second image, and specific image" are not limited to barcode images, but may be, for example, images of two-dimensional codes, images of characters indicating the service information SI1 itself (e.g., a discount code), etc.

(Variation 5) The image display device 110 may be equipped with an RFID tag with a display function. When receiving image information IM1 from the linking server 10, the image display device 110 may use the display function of the RFID tag to display the image information IM1. Furthermore, when receiving image information IM1 from the linking server 10, the image display device 110 may store service information SI1 corresponding to the image information IM1 in the RFID tag. This allows an employee to read the service information SI1 using an RFID reader. In this variation, the RFID tag with a display function is an example of a "display unit."

(Variation 6) The "first type of information code" is not limited to a two-dimensional code, and may be, for example, a barcode, a multi-stage barcode, etc. Also, the "second type of information code" is not limited to a barcode, and may be, for example, a two-dimensional code, a multi-stage barcode, etc. Also, in a variation in which the "first type of information code" and the "second type of information code" are both the same type of information code (for example, a two-dimensional code), the "first type of information code" may be an information code that complies with a specific standard, and the "second type of information code" may be an information code that complies with a standard different from the specific standard.

(Variation 7) "Biometric information" is not limited to facial information, but may be other biometric information such as fingerprints, voiceprints, irises, veins, etc.

The technical elements described in this specification or drawings have technical utility either alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. In addition, the technologies illustrated in this specification or drawings achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving any one of those objectives is itself technically useful.

2: Communication system 6: Internet 10: Link server 12: Communication I/F
30: Control unit 32: CPU
34: Memory 40: Program 100: Store 110: Image display device 112: Communication I/F
114: imaging unit 116: display unit 130: control unit 132: CPU
134: Memory 140: Program 160: POS
162: Scanner 200: Store 210: Image display device 260: POS
262: Scanner 310: Image display device 318: BT I/F
500: Coupon 510: Library membership card 600: Authentication server IM1, IM2: Image information RI1, RI2: Reservation information SI1, SI2: Service information ST1 to ST4: Server table

Claims (5)

a first input device capable of receiving an input of information in response to an operation of a user visiting the first store ;
a second input device capable of receiving an input of information in response to an operation of the user visiting a second store different from the first store ;
a first display device capable of displaying an image;
a second display device capable of displaying an image;
a server capable of communicating with the first input device, the second input device, the first display device, and the second display device;
Equipped with
the first input device and the first display device are installed in the first store ,
the second input device and the second display device are installed in the second store ,
the server includes a database that stores specific common information, first device identification information for identifying the first input device, and first service information indicating a first service in association with each other, and that stores the specific common information, second device identification information for identifying the second input device, and second service information indicating a second service different from the first service in association with each other;
The first input device is
When reading the specific common information from a first type of information code in which the specific common information is recorded in response to an operation by the user, transmitting the input specific common information and the first device identification information to the server;
The server,
When receiving the specific common information from the first input device, acquiring the first service information stored in association with both the specific common information and the first device identification information from the database;
transmitting, to the first display device, first image information indicating a second type of information code in which the acquired first service information is recorded ;
The first display device includes:
When receiving the first image information from the server, displaying the second type of information code which is indicated by the first image information and corresponds to the first service;
The second input device is
When reading the specific common information from the first type of information code in which the specific common information is recorded in response to an operation by the user, transmitting the input specific common information and the second device identification information to the server;
The server,
When the specific common information is received from the second input device, the second service information stored in association with both the specific common information and the second device identification information is acquired from the database;
transmitting second image information indicating the second type of information code in which the acquired second service information is recorded to the second display device;
The second display device includes:
A communication system that, when receiving the second image information from the server, displays the second type of information code indicated by the second image information and corresponding to the second service different from the first service. The communication system of claim 1 , wherein the second type of information code is different from the first type of information code. an input device capable of receiving input of information obtainable according to a first method for reading information in a first type of information code in response to an operation of a user visiting a predetermined store ;
A display device capable of displaying an image;
A server capable of communicating with the input device and the display device;
Equipped with
the input device and the display device are installed in the predetermined store ,
the server includes a database that stores specific information and specific service information indicating a specific service in association with each other;
The input device is
When accepting input of specific information that can be acquired according to the first type of method in response to an operation by the user, transmitting the input specific information to the server;
The server,
When the specific information is received from the input device, the specific service information stored in association with the specific information is acquired from the database;
Transmitting to the display device specific image information indicating the specific image corresponding to the acquired specific service information, the specific image being in accordance with a second type of method for reading information in a second type of information code that is different from the first type of information code ;
The display device includes:
and upon receiving the image information from the server, displaying the particular image indicated by the image information and corresponding to the particular service. The communication system according to claim 3 , wherein the first type of method is a method for acquiring information corresponding to the user by performing authentication using biometric information of the user. the display device displays the specific image when the number of times the specific information has been used is less than a predetermined upper limit value;
5. The communication system according to claim 3 , wherein the specific image is not displayed when the number of times of use is equal to the upper limit value.

Images