JP7727617B2 - Payment method, program, and purchasing system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to technology for processing credit cards.

Technology for processing credit cards has been known for some time. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technology that enables a user to immediately purchase goods and services based on credit card information after applying for a credit card.

Patent No. 6952084

With the technology described in Patent Document 1, users had to use an application program provided independently by the credit card company to purchase goods with a credit card, which was inconvenient for the user.

The present invention aims to provide a system that allows users to easily make payments based on the information on a new credit card after applying for the issuance of that credit card.

One aspect of the present invention provides a payment method comprising the steps of: accepting, at a user terminal, input of application information to be used for screening to issue a credit card number to the user of the user terminal; registering, by an intermediary server, a user ID assigned to the user of the user terminal by a business providing a product or service and a credit card number issued based on the application information received from the user terminal in association with each other; activating a payment function of an application program provided by the business and executed on the user terminal upon receiving notification from the intermediary server that the credit card number has been issued; and using the activated payment function, the user terminal accepting a payment instruction from the user regarding the purchase of a product or use of a service. When the intermediary server receives a payment request including at least the user ID and amount information including the purchase amount of the product or service related to the payment instruction, identifying the credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmitting the credit card number together with the amount information to a payment server; and performing payment processing by the payment server based on the card number and amount information received from the intermediary server.

Another aspect of the present invention provides an intermediary server having means executed on a user terminal for registering a user ID assigned to a user by a business providing a product or service and a credit card number issued based on application information received from the user terminal in association with each other, and means for, upon receiving a payment request input by the user terminal and including at least the user ID and payment information, identifying the credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmitting the credit card number together with the payment information to a payment server.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a program for causing a computer of a user terminal running an application program provided by a business that introduces products or services to execute the following steps: accepting input of application information to be used in screening for issuing a credit card number to the user of the user terminal; transmitting the accepted application information to a payment server; upon receiving notification from the payment server that the credit card number has been issued by the payment server, activating the payment function of the application program using an intermediary server that stores a user ID assigned by the business and the issued credit card number in association with each other; accepting a payment instruction from the user regarding the purchase of a product or use of a service using the activated payment function; and transmitting the accepted payment instruction to the intermediary server in association with the user ID.

Another aspect of the present invention is a system having a user terminal, an intermediary server, and a payment server, wherein the user terminal has means for executing an application program provided by a business that introduces a product or service, means for accepting input of application information used in screening to issue a credit card number to the user of the user terminal, means for transmitting the accepted application information to the payment server, and means for activating the payment function of the application program using the intermediary server that, upon receiving from the payment server a notification that the credit card number has been issued by the payment server, associates and stores the user ID assigned by the business with the issued credit card number, and means for using the activated payment function to execute ... the business. a purchasing system comprising: means for receiving payment instructions from the user regarding the purchase of a product or the use of a service; and means for associating the received payment instructions with the user ID and transmitting them to the intermediary server; the intermediary server having means for registering the user ID received from the user terminal and the credit card number notified by the payment server in association with each other; and means for, upon receiving a payment request regarding the payment instructions that includes at least the user ID and payment information, identifying the credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmitting the credit card number together with the payment information to the payment server; and the payment server having means for performing payment processing based on the credit card number and payment information received from the intermediary server.

According to the present invention, after applying for a credit card, a user can easily make payments based on the credit card information.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of an information processing system according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system (continuation of FIG. 6). FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a mediation server. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a payment server. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a user terminal. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a store terminal. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a business server. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a credit card application process. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen (part 1) on a user terminal. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display screen (part 2) on the user terminal. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display screen (part 3) on the user terminal. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display screen (part 4) on the user terminal. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user information database. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a payment process (part 1). FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display screen (part 5) on a user terminal. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display screen (part 6) on the user terminal. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display screen (part 7) on the user terminal. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a payment process (part 2). FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a QR code display screen (part 1) on a store terminal. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a payment process (part 3). FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a QR code display screen (part 2) on a store terminal. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of an information processing system SA. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a process for applying for immediate credit card use. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in a user terminal 40A. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a payment process (part 4). 10 shows an example of the content displayed on the screen of the user terminal 40A. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an overview of an information processing system SB. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system SB. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a card enrollment processing server. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a process for applying for immediate credit card use according to a modified example.

1 shows an overview of an information processing system S according to one embodiment. The information processing system S is composed of an intermediary server 10, a network 20, a payment server 30, a user terminal 40, a store terminal 50, and a business operator server 90.
The intermediary server 10, the payment server 30, and the user terminal 40 are each connected to one another via a network 20. The intermediary server 10 and the store terminal 50 are connected to one another via the network 20. The user terminal 40 and the business operator server 90 are connected to one another via the network 20. The network 20 is a network line such as the Internet. The user terminal 40 and the store terminal 50 can be connected to the network 20 by wire or wirelessly.
For convenience, only one user terminal 40, one payment server 30, one business server 90, and one store terminal 50 are shown in the figure, but multiple terminals may exist. In other words, multiple businesses (credit card member stores) and multiple credit card issuers (credit agencies) can access multiple users, and users can apply for cards from multiple credit card issuers and instantly carry out commercial transactions and enjoy benefits using the cards they have applied for.

The information processing system S performs the payment process using the intermediary server 10 that has registered the user ID received from the user terminal 40 and the credit card number notified by the payment server 30 in association with each other.
Generally, after a credit card application is submitted, it does not take long for the application to pass the credit card screening and for a credit card number to be generated (equivalent to issuing a credit card). However, after the credit card number is generated, it usually takes about eight business days to three weeks for the credit card to be printed and mailed. In addition, some businesses offer special benefits that can be used by paying various charges related to commercial transactions with the business using a credit card. However, as mentioned above, it usually takes at least one week from the time of applying for a credit card until the credit card can actually be used, so it is generally not possible to use the special benefits immediately after applying for a credit card.

In this regard, the information processing system S is provided with an intermediary server 10 that links and registers an ID (hereinafter referred to as a user ID) generated and managed by the business to uniquely identify the business's customer with a credit card number generated by a credit card company (a so-called issuer).By providing such an intermediary server 10, a user can instantly conduct a commercial transaction using a credit card number, even if they do not have a credit card (also called a physical card, plastic card, etc.) in hand, as long as they have generated a credit card number.
Furthermore, the commercial transactions conducted by a business are those conducted in a brick-and-mortar store or on an electronic commerce (EC) site. A user ID is identification information (ID) assigned by a business to uniquely identify its customers, and can be used by users in web services, store services, etc. provided by the business. The user ID is, for example, composed of at least one of alphabets and numbers.
In addition, as will be described later, in the information processing system S, when a user signs up for a credit card (a new credit card number is assigned to the user), the business operator and/or the credit card company can simultaneously assign bonus information (so-called points, etc., which have monetary or economic value). As a result, the user can receive the bonus even when shopping without a credit card.

The intermediary server 10 is a server equipped with a user information database that stores credit card numbers linked to user IDs. A credit card number is a number used for making payments that is generated when a user applies for a credit card number.

The payment server 30 is a server that generates credit card numbers. The payment server 30 is a server managed by a credit card company. The payment server 30 performs payment processing using the credit card number sent from the intermediary server.

The user terminal 40 is an information processing device such as a smartphone or tablet PC used by a user to apply for a credit card. The user terminal 40 accepts input of at least application information in response to user operation. The application information is information used for screening to generate a credit card number for the user of the user terminal 40, and includes at least a user ID. The user ID is information assigned to the user of the user terminal 40 by a business providing a product or service, and is used to uniquely identify the user. When making a payment using the user ID, the user terminal 40 displays a two-dimensional code (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)) to be read by the store terminal 50, displays an object for accepting a request for a commercial transaction using the credit card number, or reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the store terminal 50.

The store terminal 50 is a smartphone or tablet PC managed by and linked to the business, installed in a physical store operated by the business, and used by employees of the business (for example, sales clerks in charge of customer service or accounting). The store terminal 50 displays a two-dimensional code to be read by the user terminal 40, or reads a two-dimensional code displayed on the user terminal 40.

The business server 90 is managed and operated by the business that manages the store terminal 50. It communicates with the user terminal 40 and controls the operation of the application program executed on the user terminal 40. Communication between the user terminal and the intermediary server 10 or the payment server 30 is always carried out via the business server 90. In other words, when the application program is executed and information regarding credit card applications and payment processing is exchanged, the user terminal 40 always accesses the business server 90. As described below, the business server 90 activates the payment function of the application program when a credit card number is issued.

<Basic functions>
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the basic functional configuration of the information processing system S.
The information processing system S has a receiving means 201, a generating means 202, a storage means 203, a reading means 204, a reading means 205, an acquisition means 206, a payment means 207, a generating means 208, a control means 209, a control means 210, a control means 211, a control means 212, a control means 213, and a control means 214.
The storage means 203, acquisition means 206, and control means 209 are implemented in the intermediary server 10. The generation means 202, payment means 207, and control means 210 are implemented in the payment server 30. The acceptance means 201, reading means 204, and control means 211 are implemented in the user terminal 40. The reading means 205 and control means 212 are implemented in the store terminal 50.

First, the functions of the intermediary server 10 will be explained. The storage means 203 stores various types of data. The storage means 203 also stores a user information database. The acquisition means 206 acquires information stored in the user information database from the storage means 203. The control means 209 performs various controls.

Next, we will explain the functions of the payment server 30. The generation means 202 generates (issues) a credit card number using the application information entered at the user terminal 40. The payment means 207 performs payment processing using the credit card number obtained from the intermediary server 10. The control means 210 performs various controls.

Next, we will explain the functions of the user terminal 40. The reception means 201 receives application information input based on user operations. The reading means 204 reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the store terminal 50. The control means 211 performs various controls.

Next, we will explain the functions of the store terminal 50. The reading means 205 reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the user terminal 40. The control means 212 performs various controls.

Next, the functions of the business operator server 90 will be explained. The application control means 291 controls the operation of the application executed on the user terminal 40. The benefit management means determines the content and method of the benefit (including cases where no benefit is given) to be given to a new member when signing up for a credit card issued by the payment server. The communication means 292, communication means 294, and communication means 295 exchange various information with the user terminal 40, payment server, and intermediary server 10, respectively.

An example of the functional configuration of the information processing system S will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.
The processing performed by the information processing system S can be broadly divided into two: credit card application processing and payment processing. Payment processing can be divided into three methods: CPM, static MPM, and dynamic MPM. The functional configuration diagram illustrated in FIG. 3 corresponds to credit card application processing. The functional configuration diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 corresponds to CPM payment processing. The functional configuration diagram illustrated in FIG. 5 corresponds to static MPM payment processing. The functional configuration diagram illustrated in FIG. 6 corresponds to dynamic MPM payment processing. The functional configuration diagram illustrated in FIG. 7 corresponds to a modified example of credit card application processing. The functional diagrams illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 7 correspond to the sequence diagrams illustrated in FIGS. 13, 16, 18, 20, and 22, respectively, which will be described later.

<Functions related to processing instant credit card applications>
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system S, and corresponds to the operations relating to the processing of an application for immediate credit card use shown in the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 13, which will be described later.
The information processing system S has a storage means 203, an activation means 340, a reception means 341, a communication means 342, a communication means 330, a communication means 331, an acquisition means 303, a generation means 304, a transmission means 305, an acquisition means 306, a notification means 307, an acquisition means 308, a transmission means 309, a generation means 310, a storage control means 311, a transmission means 312, an acquisition means 313, a registration means 314, a notification means 315, an acquisition means 316, a request means 317, an acquisition means 318, a generation means 319, a transmission means 320, an acquisition means 321, and an activation means 322.
The storage means 203 , acquisition means 306 , acquisition means 313 , registration means 314 , notification means 315 , acquisition means 318 , generation means 319 , and transmission means 320 are implemented in the intermediation server 10 .
The acquiring means 303 , the generating means 304 , the transmitting means 305 , the notifying means 307 , and the transmitting means 309 are implemented in the payment server 30 .
The communication means 330 , the communication means 331 , the acquisition means 308 , the generation means 310 , the storage control means 311 , the transmission means 312 , the acquisition means 316 , the request means 317 , the acquisition means 321 , and the activation means 322 are implemented in the business server 90 .
The activation means 340 , the reception means 341 , and the communication means 342 are implemented in the user terminal 40 .

The functions of the intermediary server 10 will be described. The storage means 203 stores various data. The storage means 203 also stores a user information database. The acquisition means 306 acquires the user ID and credit card number transmitted from the payment server 30. The acquisition means 313 receives the user ID from the user terminal 40. The registration means 314 executes user registration to utilize a payment system (hereinafter referred to as numberless payment) in which payments are made by acquiring the user ID rather than the credit card number from the user terminal 40. The notification means 315 notifies the user terminal 40 that user registration has been completed. The acquisition means 318 acquires a request for an authorization code from the user terminal 40. The generation means 319 generates an authorization code in response to a request from the user terminal 40. The generation means 319 also generates an access token in response to a request from the user terminal 40. The transmission means 320 transmits the authorization code to the user terminal 40. The transmission means 320 also transmits the access token to the user terminal 40. The exchange of the authorization code and access token is a necessary process for making a payment using a QR code using the store terminal 50.

The functions of the payment server 30 are explained below. The acquisition means 303 acquires application information sent from the user terminal 40. The generation means 304 generates a credit card number based on the application information acquired from the user terminal 40. The transmission means 305 transmits the user ID included in the application information and the generated credit card number to the intermediary server 10. The notification means 307 notifies the user terminal 40 that the user has passed the screening related to the generation of the credit card number and that a credit card number has been generated.

The functions of the user terminal 40 will now be described. The acceptance means 341 accepts input of application information based on user operation. The communication means 342 transmits the input application information to the business operator server 90. The communication means 342 also receives notification from the business operator server 90 that the user has passed the screening related to the generation of a credit card number and that a credit card number has been generated. The activation means 340 activates the payment function of an application program (hereinafter referred to as the app) executed on the user terminal 40 based on instructions from the business operator server 90. Note that the app may be a so-called native app that is called directly from the OS (operating system), or a so-called non-native app that runs on another app such as a browser. In short, it is sufficient if it is a program that runs on the user terminal 40.

The functions of the business server 90 are explained below. The communication means 330 receives application information from the user terminal 40 and sends a notification to the user terminal 40 that the user has passed the screening for generating a credit card number and that a credit card number has been generated. It sends instructions to the user terminal 40 to activate the payment function of the app. The communication means 342 sends the application information received from the user terminal 40 to the business server 90. The acquisition means 308 acquires a notification from the payment server 30 that the user has passed the screening for generating a credit card number and that a credit card number has been generated. The generation means 310 generates bonus information. The storage control means 311 stores the user ID and bonus information in association with each other. The stored information may be further transmitted to the user terminal 40 and stored in the memory of the user terminal 40. The bonus information is read by the user terminal or the business server as needed (for example, at the time of payment) when the app is executed. The transmission means 312 transmits the user ID and bonus information to the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 316 acquires a notification from the intermediary server 10 that user registration has been completed. The request means 317 requests an authorization code for acquiring an access token from the intermediary server 10. The request means 317 also requests an access token from the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 321 acquires the authorization code from the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 321 also acquires the access token from the intermediary server 10. The activation means 322 activates the payment function of the app running on the user terminal 40.

<Functions related to processing instant credit card applications>
4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system S, following on from Fig. 3. Fig. 4 corresponds to the processing sequence diagram of an application for immediate credit card use shown in Fig. 16.
The information processing system S has a storage means 203, a reception means 401, a request means 402, an acquisition means 403, a generation means 404, a display control means 405, a reading means 407, a reception means 408, a request means 409, an acquisition means 410, an acquisition means 411, a transmission means 412, an acquisition means 413, a payment means 414, a notification means 415, an acquisition means 416, a notification means 417, an acquisition means 418, a display control means 419, and a display means 420.
The storage means 203, acquisition means 403, generation means 404, display control means 405, acquisition means 410, acquisition means 411, transmission means 412, acquisition means 416, notification means 417, and display control means 419 are implemented in the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 413, payment means 414, and notification means 415 are implemented in the payment server 30. The reception means 401, request means 402, acquisition means 403, and display means 420 are implemented in the user terminal 40. The reading means 407, reception means 408, request means 409, and acquisition means 418 are implemented in the store terminal 50.

First, the functions of the intermediary server 10 will be described. The storage unit 203 stores various data. The storage unit 203 also stores a user information database. The acquisition unit 403 acquires a request to generate a QR code (registered trademark) from the user terminal 40. At this time, the acquisition unit 403 acquires a user ID from the user terminal 40. The generation unit 404 generates a QR code using the user ID and payment information transmitted from the user terminal 40. The display control unit 405 controls the display of the QR code on the user terminal 40. At this time, the display control unit 405 transmits the QR code to the user terminal 40. The acquisition unit 410 acquires a request to execute payment from the store terminal 50. At this time, the acquisition unit 410 acquires amount information, business operator identification information, user ID, and payment information from the store terminal 50. The acquisition unit 411 reads the user information database stored in the storage unit 203 and acquires the credit card number corresponding to the user ID transmitted from the store terminal 50.
The sending means 412 sends the credit card number, amount information, business identification information, and payment information to the payment server 30. The amount information includes the purchase amount of the product or service related to the payment instruction. The acquiring means 416 acquires a notification that the payment has been completed from the payment server 30. The notifying means 417 notifies the store terminal 50 that the payment has been completed. The display control means 419 controls the display of a screen on the user terminal 40 indicating that the payment has been completed (hereinafter referred to as the payment completion screen). At this time, the display control means 419 sends data of the payment completion screen to the user terminal 40.

Next, the functions of the payment server 30 will be explained. The acquisition means 413 acquires the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information from the intermediary server 10. The payment means 414 executes payment based on the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information sent from the intermediary server 10. The notification means 415 notifies the intermediary server 10 that payment has been completed.

Next, the functions of the user terminal 40 will be explained. The reception means 401 receives payment instructions for commercial transactions based on user operations. The request means 402 requests the intermediary server 10 to generate a QR code to be read by the store terminal 50. At this time, the request means 402 transmits the user ID to the intermediary server 10. The display control means 405 displays the QR code transmitted from the intermediary server 10. The display means 420 displays the payment completion screen transmitted from the payment server 30.

Next, the functions of the store terminal 50 will be explained. The reading means 407 reads the QR code displayed on the user terminal 40. The accepting means 408 accepts input of amount information based on operation by the operator of the store terminal 50. The requesting means 409 requests the intermediary server 10 to execute payment. At this time, the requesting means 409 transmits to the intermediary server 10 the amount information, business operator identification information, and the user ID and payment information, which are part of the information contained in the read QR code. The acquiring means 418 acquires a notification from the intermediary server 10 that the payment has been completed.

Figure 5, following Figure 4, is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of information processing system S. Figure 5 corresponds to the sequence diagram shown in Figure 18. Information processing system S has a storage means 203, a reception means 501, a reading means 502, a transmission means 503, an acquisition means 504, a notification means 505, an acquisition means 506, a reception means 507, an authentication means 508, a request means 509, an acquisition means 510, an acquisition means 511, a transmission means 512, an acquisition means 513, a payment means 514, a notification means 515, an acquisition means 516, a display control means 517, and a display means 518. The storage means 203, the acquisition means 504, the notification means 505, an acquisition means 510, an acquisition means 511, the transmission means 512, an acquisition means 516, and a display control means 517 are implemented in intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 513, payment means 514, and notification means 515 are implemented in the payment server 30. The acceptance means 501, reading means 502, transmission means 503, acquisition means 506, acceptance means 507, authentication means 508, request means 509, and display means 518 are implemented in the user terminal 40.

First, the functions of the intermediary server 10 will be described. The storage means 203 stores various data. The storage means 203 also stores a user information database. The acquisition means 504 acquires business operator identification information from the user terminal 40. The notification means 505 notifies the user terminal 40 that the QR code reading at the user terminal 40 has been successfully completed. The acquisition means 510 acquires a request to execute payment from the user terminal 40. At this time, the acquisition means 510 acquires the user ID and payment information from the user terminal 40. The acquisition means 511 reads the user information database stored in the storage means 203 and acquires the credit card number corresponding to the user ID sent from the user terminal 40. The transmission means 512 transmits the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information to the payment server 30. The acquisition means 516 acquires a notification from the payment server 30 that the payment has been completed. The display control means 517 controls the display of a payment completion screen on the user terminal 40. At this time, the display control means 517 sends payment completion screen data to the user terminal 40.

Next, the functions of the payment server 30 will be explained. The acquisition means 513 acquires the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information from the intermediary server 10. The payment means 514 executes payment based on the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information sent from the intermediary server 10. The notification means 515 notifies the intermediary server 10 that payment has been completed.

Next, the functions of the user terminal 40 will be described. The acceptance means 501 accepts payment instructions for commercial transactions based on user operation. The reading means 502 reads a QR code containing business identification information. The transmission means 503 transmits the business identification information obtained by reading the QR code to the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 506 receives a notification from the intermediary server 10 that the user terminal 40 has successfully read the QR code. The acceptance means 507 accepts input of amount information based on user operation. The authentication means 508 performs user authentication in the app to confirm that the person attempting to make payment is the user himself/herself. The request means 509 requests the intermediary server 10 to execute the payment. At this time, the request means 509 transmits the user ID and payment information to the intermediary server 10. The display means 518 displays the payment completion screen transmitted from the intermediary server 10.

6 and 7 are diagrams illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system S, following on from Fig. 5. Fig. 6 corresponds to the sequence diagram shown in Fig. 20.
The information processing system S has a storage unit 203, a transmission unit 601, an acquisition unit 602, a generation unit 603, a display control unit 604, a display unit 605, a reception unit 606, a reading unit 607, a transmission unit 608, an acquisition unit 609, a display control unit 610, a display unit 611, an authentication unit 612, a request unit 613, an acquisition unit 614, an acquisition unit 615, a transmission unit 616, an acquisition unit 617, a payment unit 618, a notification unit 619, an acquisition unit 620, a display control unit 621, a display unit 622, and a display unit 623. The storage unit 203, the acquisition unit 602, the generation unit 603, the display control unit 604, the acquisition unit 609, the display control unit 610, the acquisition unit 614, the acquisition unit 615, the transmission unit 616, the acquisition unit 620, and the display control unit 621 are implemented in the intermediation server 10. The acquisition unit 617, the payment unit 618, and the notification unit 619 are implemented in the payment server 30. The reception unit 606, the reading unit 607, the transmission unit 608, the display unit 611, the authentication unit 612, the request unit 613, and the display unit 623 are implemented in the user terminal 40. The transmission unit 601, the display unit 605, and the display unit 622 are implemented in the store terminal 50.

First, the functions of the intermediary server 10 will be described. The storage means 203 stores various data. The storage means 203 also stores a user information database. The acquisition means 602 acquires business operator identification information and amount information from the store terminal 50. The generation means 603 generates a QR code using the business operator identification information and amount information transmitted from the store terminal 50. The display control means 604 controls the display of the QR code on the store terminal 50. At this time, the display control means 604 transmits the QR code to the store terminal 50. The acquisition means 609 acquires amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information from the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. The display control means 610 controls the display of amount information on the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. In other words, the display control means 610 notifies the user terminal 40 that the QR code has been successfully read. The acquisition means 614 acquires a request to execute payment from the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. The acquisition means 615 reads the user information database stored in the storage means 203 and acquires the credit card number corresponding to the user ID transmitted and received from the business server 90. The transmission means 616 transmits the credit card number, amount information, business identification information, and payment information to the payment server 30. The acquisition means 620 acquires a notification from the payment server 30 that the payment has been completed. The display control means 621 controls the display of a payment completion screen on the store terminal 50. The display control means 621 also controls the display of a payment completion screen on the user terminal 40 via the business server 90.

Next, we will explain the functions of the payment server 30. The acquisition means 617 acquires the credit card number and amount information from the intermediary server 10. The payment means 618 executes the payment based on the credit card number, amount information, business identification information, and payment information sent from the intermediary server 10. The notification means 619 notifies the intermediary server 10 that the payment has been completed.

Next, the functions of the user terminal 40 will be explained. The acceptance means 606 accepts instructions for payment of the price associated with a commercial transaction based on operation by the user. The reading means 607 reads the QR code displayed on the store terminal 50. The transmission means 608 transmits payment information, as well as amount information and business identification information contained in the read QR code, to the intermediary server 10. The display means 611 displays the amount information. The authentication means 612 performs user authentication in the app to confirm that the person attempting to make payment is the user himself/herself. The request means 613 requests the intermediary server 10 to execute the payment. At this time, the request means 613 transmits the user ID to the intermediary server 10. The display means 623 displays the payment completion screen transmitted from the intermediary server 10.

Next, the functions of the store terminal 50 will be explained. The transmission means 601 transmits business identification information and amount information to the intermediary server 10. The display means 605 displays the QR code transmitted from the intermediary server 10. The display means 622 displays the payment completion screen transmitted from the intermediary server 10.

Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the intermediary server 10. The intermediary server 10 is a computer device having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, memory 12, storage 13, and a communication IF (Interface) 14. The CPU 11 is a control device that executes programs to perform various calculations and controls the other hardware elements of the intermediary server 10. The memory 12 is a main storage device that functions as a work area when the CPU 11 executes programs. The storage 13 is a non-volatile auxiliary storage device that stores various programs and data. The communication IF 14 is a communication device that communicates with other devices according to a predetermined communication standard (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)).

In this example, storage 13 stores a program (hereinafter referred to as the "intermediation server program") for causing the computer device to function as intermediation server 10 in information processing system S. When CPU 11 executes the intermediation server program, the computer device is implemented with the functions shown in Figures 2 to 7. When CPU 11 is executing the intermediation server program, at least one of memory 12 and storage 13 is an example of storage means 203, CPU 11 is an example of acquisition means 206, control means 209, registration means 314, generation means 319, generation means 404, acquisition means 411, acquisition means 511, generation means 603, and acquisition means 615, and communication IF 14 is an example of acquisition means 306, acquisition means 313, notification means 315, acquisition means 318, transmission means 319, and so on. 20, acquisition means 403, display control means 405, acquisition means 410, transmission means 412, acquisition means 416, notification means 417, display control means 419, acquisition means 504, notification means 505, acquisition means 510, transmission means 512, acquisition means 516, display control means 517, acquisition means 602, display control means 604, acquisition means 609, display control means 610, acquisition means 614, transmission means 616, acquisition means 620, display control means 621, and acquisition means 708.

Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the payment server 30. The payment server 30 is a computer device having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31, memory 32, storage 33, and a communication IF (Interface) 34. The CPU 31 is a control device that executes programs to perform various calculations and controls the other hardware elements of the payment server 30. The memory 32 is a main storage device that functions as a work area when the CPU 31 executes programs. The storage 33 is a non-volatile auxiliary storage device that stores various programs and data. The communication IF 34 is a communication device that communicates with other devices according to a predetermined communication standard (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)).

In this example, storage 33 stores a program (hereinafter referred to as the "payment server program") for causing the computer device to function as the payment server 30 in information processing system S. When CPU 31 executes the payment server program, the functions shown in Figures 2 to 7 are implemented in the computer device. When CPU 31 is executing the payment server program, CPU 31 is an example of generation means 202, payment means 207, control means 210, generation means 304, payment means 414, payment means 514, and payment means 618, and communication IF 34 is an example of acquisition means 303, transmission means 305, notification means 307, transmission means 309, acquisition means 413, notification means 415, acquisition means 513, notification means 515, acquisition means 617, notification means 619, and acquisition means 710.

Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a user terminal 40. The user terminal 40 is a computer device having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 41, memory 42, storage 43, a communication IF (Interface) 44, an input unit 45, and a display 46. The CPU 41 is a control device that executes programs to perform various calculations and controls other hardware elements of the user terminal 40. The memory 42 is a main storage device that functions as a work area when the CPU 41 executes programs. The storage 43 is a non-volatile auxiliary storage device that stores various programs and data. The communication IF 44 is a communication device that communicates with other devices in accordance with a specified communication standard (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)). The input unit 45 is an operation unit consisting of a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, or the like, and inputs various information in response to user instructions. The display 46 is a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, and outputs images or text.

In this example, storage 43 stores a program (hereinafter referred to as the "user terminal program") for causing the computer device to function as a user terminal 40 in information processing system S. When CPU 41 executes the user terminal program, the functions of Figures 2 to 7 are implemented in the computer device. When the CPU 41 is executing the server program, the CPU 41 is an example of the reception means 201, the reading means 204, the control means 211, the reception means 301, the memory control means 311, the activation means 322, the reception means 401, the reception means 501, the reading means 502, the reception means 507, the authentication means 508, the reception means 606, the reading means 607, the authentication means 612, and the reception means 701, the communication IF 44 is an example of the transmission means 302, the acquisition means 308, the generation means 310, the transmission means 312, the acquisition means 316, the request means 317, the acquisition means 321, the request means 402, the transmission means 503, the acquisition means 506, the request means 509, the transmission means 608, the display means 611, the request means 613, and the transmission means 702, and the display 46 is an example of the display control means 405, the display means 420, the display means 518, and the display means 623.

Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a store terminal 50. The store terminal 50 is a computer device having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, memory 52, storage 53, a communication IF (Interface) 54, an input unit 55, and a display 56. The CPU 51 is a control device that executes programs to perform various calculations and controls the other hardware elements of the store terminal 50. The memory 52 is a main memory device that functions as a work area when the CPU 51 executes programs. The storage 53 is a non-volatile auxiliary memory device that stores various programs and data. The communication IF 54 is a communication device that communicates with other devices in accordance with a specified communication standard (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)). The input unit 55 is an operation unit consisting of a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel, and is used to input various information in response to user instructions. The display 56 is a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, and outputs images or text.

In this example, storage 53 stores a program (hereinafter referred to as the "store terminal program") for causing the computer device to function as a store terminal 50 in information processing system S. When CPU 51 executes the store terminal program, the functions of Figures 2, 4, and 6 are implemented in the computer device. When CPU 51 is executing the server program, CPU 51 is an example of reading means 205, control means 212, reading means 407, and reception means 408, communication IF 54 is an example of request means 409, acquisition means 418, and transmission means 601, and display 56 is an example of display means 605 and display means 622.

Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the provider server 90. The provider server 90 is a computer device having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 91, memory 92, storage 93, and a communication IF (Interface) 94. The CPU 91 is a control device that executes programs to perform various calculations and controls the other hardware elements of the provider server 90. The memory 92 is a main storage device that functions as a work area when the CPU 91 executes programs. The storage 93 is a non-volatile auxiliary storage device that stores various programs and data. The communication IF 94 is a communication device that communicates with other devices according to a predetermined communication standard (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)).

In this example, storage 93 stores a program for causing the computer device to function as the business server 90 in information processing system S. When CPU 91 executes this program, the computer device implements the functions shown in Figures 2 to 6. When CPU 91 is executing the program, CPU 91 is an example of application control means 291, benefit management means 293, activation means 322, display control means 421, display control means 422, display control means 534, display control means 632, display control means 634, etc.

2. Operation 2.1 Immediate Use Application Processing Fig. 13 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of an application process for immediate use of a credit card. Fig. 14 explains the application process for conducting a commercial transaction using a credit card number after the credit card number is generated and before the physical card (so-called plastic card) is delivered to the user.

First, in step S1401, the accepting unit 301 of the user terminal 40 accepts application information input based on user operation. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 14A, the user selects and launches an app provided by the retailer that offers "xxx Store," which has been pre-installed on the user terminal 40, from a home screen displayed under the control of the OS of the user terminal 40. Next, if necessary, the user performs a predetermined login operation, such as entering an ID and password. Communication with the business server 90 then takes place, and the top page screen shown in FIG. 14B is displayed on the user terminal 40. This screen is generated by the business server 90 and includes an object OB21 for accepting credit card application. When a user who wishes to apply for a credit card taps OB21, the operation information is sent to the business server 90, and the screen shown in FIG. 14C is displayed on the user terminal 40. This screen is an input form for credit card application specified by the card issuing company that manages the payment server 30, and includes a field OB32 for entering information required for card application screening.

Returning to FIG. 13, when the user inputs the necessary information and taps the object OB31, the input information is transmitted to the business server 90 (S1402A).
In step S1402B, if the received application information does not include a user ID, the communication means 331 of the business entity server 90 adds the user ID to the application information and transmits the application information to the payment server 30. The acquisition means 303 of the payment server 30 acquires the application information.

In step S1403, the generation means 304 of the payment server 30 conducts an examination using the acquired application information, and if the examination passes, generates a credit card number for the user. In step S1404, the transmission means 305 of the payment server 30 transmits the user ID acquired in step S1402B and the credit card number generated in step S1403 to the intermediary server 10. The transmission means 305 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the user ID and credit card number from the payment server 30.

In step S1405, the storage means 203 of the intermediary server 10 stores the user ID and credit card number obtained in step S1404 in association with each other in the user information database.

Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating a user information database. The user information database is composed of a user ID 1501, a credit card number 1502, and a user ID payment flag 1503. The user information database stores the user ID 1501, the credit card number 1502, and the user ID payment flag 1503 in association with each other. The user ID 1501 is the user ID whose input was accepted in step S1401. The credit card number 1502 is the credit card number generated in step S1403. The user ID payment flag 1503 is a flag indicating that payment is to be made using the user ID 1501 associated with the credit card number 1502. For example, if the user ID payment flag 1503 is "ON", payment is possible using the user ID 1501, and if the user ID payment flag 1503 is "OFF", payment is not possible using the user ID 1501. At the time of step S1405, the user ID payment flag 1503 is stored as "OFF".

Returning to FIG. 13, in step S1406A, the notification means 307 of the payment server 30 notifies the business server 90 that the screening for generating the credit card number has passed and that the credit card number has been generated. The business server 90 then notifies the user terminal 40 that the screening for generating the credit card number has passed and that the credit card number has been generated (step S1406B).

In step S1408, the generation means 310 of the business entity server 90 generates benefit information. Benefit information is given to the user along with the generation of the credit card number, and is information indicating benefits that can be used by making payments using a credit card in commercial transactions with the business entity.

The reward information may be, for example, points that can be used for payment in commercial transactions. Here, the content of the reward information may be determined based on the period of time that has elapsed since the credit card number was generated. For example, the content of the reward information may be defined as points that can be used within a predetermined period (e.g., 30 days) after the credit card number was generated. Alternatively, the number of points may be added only for a predetermined period after the credit card number was generated.
Alternatively, the content of the benefit information may be determined based on the number of transactions performed using the card after issuance. For example, the benefit information may be limited to the first transaction performed using the generated credit card number (or a predetermined number of transactions from the first transaction). In other words, an expiration date may be set for the benefit information.

The content of the bonus information, the timing of generating (or deleting) the bonus information, the expiration date (in other words, the process of enabling/disabling the bonus information), and other specifications of the bonus information can be independently set by the business operator. The set specifications are stored in the business operator server 90, and may be notified to and stored in the user terminal 40 as necessary.
Alternatively, the content of the above-mentioned special benefit information and other specifications may be determined by the payment server 30. In this case, information about the content of the special benefit information and other specifications that have been determined is notified to the business server 90 at the same time that the credit card number is issued after passing the screening.

Furthermore, how the business or credit card issuer uses the bonus information granted to the user is up to the user. In short, the business simply controls the operation of the app or the store terminal 50 so that the user can use the bonus information, either by explicitly specifying it or automatically without the user's knowledge, at least when using the commercial transaction services provided by the business.

The privilege information may be transmitted from the business operator server 90 to the user terminal 40 and stored in the user terminal 40, or may be held solely by the business operator server 90. In short, it is sufficient that the business operator server 90 and the user terminal 40 exchange information at least when the app is launched and a commercial transaction is performed, and the user can receive notification of and use the privilege information.
In step S1409, the transmitting means 312 of the business entity server 90 transmits the user ID and the benefit information to the intermediation server 10. The acquiring means 313 of the intermediation server 10 acquires the user ID and the benefit information from the business entity server 90.

In step S1410, the registration means 314 of the intermediary server 10 performs user registration using the user ID and benefit information transmitted in step S1409. The user registration performed here is registration for performing payment processing using the intermediary server 10, which stores the user ID and credit card number in association with each other. At this time, the user ID payment flag in the user information database is rewritten to ON. In step S1411, the notification means 315 of the intermediary server 10 notifies the user terminal 40 that user registration has been completed. The acquisition means 316 of the business server 90 acquires from the intermediary server 10 a notification that user registration has been completed.

Next, preparations are made between the business operator server 90 and the intermediary server 10 for payment using the QR code, which will be described later. Specifically, first, in step S1412, the request means 317 of the business operator server 90 requests an authorization code for obtaining an access token from the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 318 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the authorization code request from the user terminal 40. In step S1413, the generation means 319 of the intermediary server 10 generates an authorization code. In step S1414, the transmission means 320 of the intermediary server 10 transmits the authorization code generated in step S1413 to the user terminal 40. The acquisition means 321 of the business operator server 90 acquires the authorization code from the intermediary server 10.

In step S1415, the request means 317 of the business server 90 requests an access token from the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 318 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the access token request. In step S1416, the generation means 319 of the intermediary server 10 generates an access token. In step S1417, the transmission means 320 of the intermediary server 10 transmits the access token generated in step S1416 to the user terminal 40. The acquisition means 321 of the business server 90 acquires the access token from the intermediary server 10.

In step S1418A and/or S1418B, the activation means 322 of the business entity server 90 and/or the activation means 340 of the user terminal 40 activates the payment function of the app executed on the user terminal 40. Activating the payment function means making the numberless payment function provided in the app available on the user terminal 40, and it is sufficient that the function be executed on at least either the user terminal 40 or the business entity server 90.
Hereinafter, numberless payment will be explained by classifying it into QR code and other so-called code payment and user ID payment (payment that does not use QR code, etc.). However, the system according to the present invention can be applied to any payment method.

QR code payment, for example, is a payment method that uses the generation or reading of QR codes, and is a payment method that is mainly carried out at business operators' physical stores. User ID payment, for example, is a payment method that uses a user ID associated with a credit card number, and is a payment method that is mainly used in so-called online sales (commercial transactions using EC (E-commerce) sites). Payment functions, for example, are the function of displaying a QR code for performing payment processing, the function of reading a QR code for performing payment processing, or the function of displaying a button or other object on the screen of the user terminal 40 that allows the user to select user ID payment as the payment method.

2.2 Payment Processing Figures 16, 18, and 20 are sequence diagrams illustrating payment processing using a QR code. The examples shown in Figures 16, 18, and 20 all have in common the final step of requesting the intermediary server 10 to execute payment. The payment server 30 acquires information necessary for payment, such as a credit card number, from the intermediary server 10 that has received the payment execution request, and executes the payment.

16 corresponds to a payment process based on the so-called CPM (Consumer-Presented Mode) method. The CPM payment process is performed by the store terminal 50 reading a QR code displayed on the user terminal 40.

First, in step S1601, the acceptance means 401 of the user terminal 40 accepts payment instructions for a commercial transaction based on user operation. Specifically, it accepts input of payment information based on user operation. Figure 17A is an example of a screen displayed on the user terminal 40 for accepting payment instructions. On this screen, the user taps object OB41 to make payment for the purchased product. Here, payment information refers to information related to the number of payments or the timing of payments. Information related to the number of payments or the timing of payments may, for example, be a lump sum payment, installment payment, or revolving payment.

In steps S1602A and S1602B, the request means 402 of the user terminal 40 requests the intermediary server 10, via the communication means 423 of the business operator server 90, to generate a QR code to be read by the store terminal 50. At this time, the request means 402 transmits the user ID and payment information to the business operator server 90. The user ID is stored, for example, in the app. Alternatively, the user ID may be entered based on an operation by the user when the payment instruction is accepted in step S1601. The acquisition means 403 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the request to generate a QR code from the business operator server 90.

In step S1603, the generation means 404 of the intermediary server 10 generates a QR code including the user ID and payment information transmitted in step S1602. In steps S1604A and S1604B, the display control means 405 of the intermediary server 10 controls the display of the QR code generated in step S1603 on the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. At this time, the display control means 405 transmits the QR code data to the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. In step S1605, the display control means 405 of the user terminal 40 displays the QR code received from the business operator server 90.

Figure 17B shows an example of a QR code display screen on the user terminal 40. This screen indicates that payment will be made using a QR code linked to an issued credit card ("XX card"), and displays objects OB42 and OB43 to prompt the user to have the store terminal 50 read the QR code.

Returning to FIG. 16 , in step S1606, the reading means 407 of the store terminal 50 reads the QR code displayed on the user terminal 40. In step S1607, the acceptance means 408 of the store terminal 50 accepts input of amount information based on operation by the business operator. In step S1608, the request means 409 of the store terminal 50 requests the intermediary server 10 to execute payment. At this time, the request means 409 transmits to the intermediary server 10 the amount information, business operator identification information, and the user ID and payment information, which are part of the information contained in the read QR code. The acquisition means 410 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the request to execute payment from the store terminal 50. At this time, the acquisition means 410 acquires the amount information, business operator identification information, user ID, and payment information from the store terminal 50.

In step S1609, the acquisition means 411 of the intermediary server 10 reads the user information database stored in the storage means 203 and acquires the credit card number corresponding to the user ID sent from the store terminal 50. In step S1610, the transmission means 412 of the intermediary server 10 transmits the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information to the payment server 30. The acquisition means 413 of the payment server 30 acquires the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information from the intermediary server 10.

In step S1611, the payment means 414 of the payment server 30 executes the payment based on the credit card number, amount information, business identification information, and payment information sent from the intermediary server 10. For example, if the payment information indicates a lump-sum payment, the payment is made as a lump-sum payment using the credit card number. In step S1612, the notification means 415 of the payment server 30 notifies the intermediary server 10 that the payment has been completed. The acquisition means 416 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the notification that the payment has been completed from the payment server 30. In step S1613, the notification means 417 of the intermediary server 10 notifies the store terminal 50 that the payment has been completed. The acquisition means 418 of the store terminal 50 acquires the notification that the payment has been completed from the intermediary server 10.

In steps S1614A and S1614B, the display control means 419 of the intermediary server 10 controls the display of a payment completion screen on the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. Specifically, the business operator server 90 generates a payment completion screen based on the information received from the display control means 419 and transmits the display screen data to the user terminal 40. As a result, in step S1615, the display means 420 displays a payment completion screen including an object OB44 indicating payment completion and the payment amount, as shown in FIG. 17C.

2.2.2 Payment Processing Using the Static MPM Method The payment processing illustrated in FIG. 18 corresponds to payment processing using the so-called static MPM (Merchant-Presented Mode) method. Payment processing using the MPM method is performed by the user terminal 40 reading a QR code managed by a business operator. Payment processing using the static MPM method refers to payment processing using a QR code that does not change over time or with each commercial transaction. While payment processing using the static MPM method has the advantage of not requiring the generation of a QR code for each commercial transaction, since QR codes cannot contain amount information, the user must input amount information using the user terminal 40.

In step S1801, the acceptance means 501 of the user terminal 40 accepts a payment instruction for a commercial transaction based on operation by the user. Specifically, the acceptance means 501 accepts input of payment information based on operation by the user. In step S1802, the reading means 502 of the user terminal 40 reads a QR code owned by the business operator. The QR code contains business operator identification information.

Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a QR code display screen on the store terminal 50. To encourage the user to scan the QR code using the camera function of the user terminal 40, the store terminal 50 displays the QR code along with a message saying, "Please scan the QR code below." In the process shown in Figure 18, the QR code does not necessarily have to be displayed on the store terminal 50; for example, the QR code may be printed on paper or the like.

In steps S1803A and S1803B, the transmission means 503 of the user terminal 40 transmits the business identification information contained in the QR code read in step S1802 to the intermediary server 10 via the business server 90. The acquisition means 504 of the intermediary server 10 acquires this business identification information.

In steps S1804A and S1804B, the notification means 505 of the intermediary server 10 notifies the user terminal 40 via the business server 90 that the reading of the QR code has been completed successfully. The intermediary server 10 determines that the reading of the QR code has been completed successfully if the business identification information stored in a database (not shown) stored in the storage means 103 of the intermediary server 10 includes the business identification information transmitted in step S1803.

In step S1805, the acceptance means 507 of the user terminal 40 accepts input of amount information based on operation by the user. In step S1806, the authentication means 508 of the user terminal 40 performs user authentication in the app to confirm that the person attempting to make payment is the user himself/herself.

In steps S1807A and S1807B, the request means 509 of the user terminal 40 requests the intermediary server 10 to execute a payment via the business operator server 90. At this time, the request means 509 transmits the user ID and payment information to the business operator server 90. The acquisition means 510 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the request to execute a payment from the business operator server 90. At this time, the acquisition means 510 acquires the user ID and payment information from the user terminal 40.

In step S1808, the acquisition means 511 of the intermediary server 10 reads the user information database stored in the storage means 203 and acquires the credit card number corresponding to the user ID sent from the user terminal 40. In step S1809, the transmission means 512 of the intermediary server 10 transmits the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information to the payment server 30. The acquisition means 513 of the payment server 30 acquires the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information from the intermediary server 10.

In step S1810, the payment means 514 of the payment server 30 executes payment based on the credit card number, amount information, business identification information, and payment information sent from the intermediary server 10. For example, if the payment information indicates a lump-sum payment, the payment is made as a lump-sum payment using the credit card number. In step S1811, the notification means 515 of the payment server 30 notifies the intermediary server 10 that the payment has been completed. The acquisition means 516 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the notification that the payment has been completed from the payment server 30.

In steps S1812A and S1812B, the display control means 517 of the intermediary server 10 controls the display of a payment completion screen on the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. At this time, the display control means 534 transmits data for the payment completion screen to the user terminal 40. As a result, in step S1813, the display means 518 of the user terminal 40 displays a payment completion screen (not shown).

2.2.3 Payment Processing Using the Dynamic MPM Method The payment processing illustrated in FIG. 20 corresponds to payment processing using the so-called dynamic MPM (Merchant-Presented Mode) method. Payment processing using the dynamic MPM method refers to payment processing using a QR code that changes over time or with each commercial transaction. In payment processing using the dynamic MPM method, the QR code can include amount information. In payment processing using the dynamic MPM method, a QR code including amount information input by the business operator via the store terminal 50 is displayed on the store terminal 50, which has the advantage of eliminating the need for the user to input amount information.

In step S2001, the transmission means 601 of the store terminal 50 transmits business operator identification information and amount information to the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 602 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the business operator identification information and amount information from the store terminal 50. In step S2002, the generation means 603 of the intermediary server 10 generates a QR code using the business operator identification information and amount information transmitted from the store terminal 50.

In step S2003, the display control means 604 of the intermediary server 10 controls the display of a QR code on the store terminal 50. At this time, the display control means 604 transmits the QR code to the store terminal 50. In step S2004, the display means 605 of the store terminal 50 displays the QR code transmitted from the intermediary server 10.

Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a QR code display screen on the store terminal 50. To prompt the user terminal 40 to read the QR code, the store terminal 50 displays the QR code along with a message saying, "Please read the QR code below." In addition, "Amount: ¥1,000" is displayed as the amount corresponding to the amount information transmitted in step S2001.

20 , in step S2005, the accepting unit 606 of the user terminal 40 accepts a payment instruction for a commercial transaction based on an operation by the user. Specifically, the accepting unit 606 of the user terminal 40 accepts input of payment information based on an operation by the user. In step S2006, the reading unit 607 of the user terminal 40 reads the QR code displayed on the store terminal 50.
In steps S2007A and S2007B, the transmitting means 608 of the user terminal 40 transmits the payment information, as well as the amount information and business operator identification information contained in the read QR code, to the intermediary server 10 via the business operator server 90. The acquiring means 609 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information from the user terminal 40.

In steps S2008A and S2008B, the display control means 610 of the intermediary server 10 controls the display of amount information on the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. As a result, in step S2009, the display means 611 of the user terminal 40 displays the amount information. At this time, the display means 611 may display not only the amount information but also the business operator identification information.

In step S2010, the authentication means 612 of the user terminal 40 performs user authentication in the app to confirm that the person attempting to make payment is the actual user. In steps S2011A and S2011B, the request means 613 of the user terminal 40 requests the intermediary server 10 to execute the payment. At this time, the request means 613 sends the user ID to the business entity server 90. The acquisition means 614 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the request to execute the payment from the business entity server 90.

In step S2012, the acquisition means 615 of the intermediary server 10 reads the user information database stored in the storage means 203 and acquires the credit card number corresponding to the received user ID. In step S2013, the transmission means 616 of the intermediary server 10 transmits the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information to the payment server 30. The acquisition means 617 of the payment server 30 acquires the credit card number, amount information, business operator identification information, and payment information from the intermediary server 10.

In step S2014, the payment means 618 of the payment server 30 executes the payment based on the credit card number, amount information, business identification information, and payment information sent from the intermediary server 10. For example, if the payment information indicates a lump-sum payment, the payment is made as a lump-sum payment using the credit card number. In step S2015, the notification means 619 of the payment server 30 notifies the intermediary server 10 that the payment has been completed. The acquisition means 620 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the notification that the payment has been completed from the payment server 30.

In step S2016, the display control means 621 of the intermediary server 10 controls the display of a payment completion screen on the store terminal 50. In step S2017, the display means 622 of the store terminal 50 displays the payment completion screen sent from the intermediary server 10.

Next, in steps S2018A and S2018B, the display control means 621 of the intermediary server 10 controls the display of a payment completion screen on the user terminal 40 via the business operator server 90. As a result, in step S2019, the display means 623 of the user terminal 40 displays the payment completion screen sent from the business operator server 90.

According to the above-described embodiments, even though payments are made using so-called codes such as QR codes, the user can specify the number of payments, the timing of payments, and other payment aspects, something that was not possible in the past.

2.2.4 Payment Process Without Using QR Codes An example of payment process without using QR codes will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 22 shows an overview of an information processing system SA. The information processing system SA includes an intermediary server 10, a payment server 30, a user terminal 40A, and an EC server 80. The information processing system SA differs from the information processing system S shown in FIG. 1 in that a user terminal 40A is provided instead of the user terminal 40, and an EC server 80 is provided instead of the user terminal 50. The user terminal 40A is a general computer, such as a smartphone or PC, that has the function of communicating with the EC server 80, but does not have the function of reading and displaying QR codes. The EC server 80 is a server that manages a so-called EC site. It communicates with the user terminal 40A and, in response to requests from the user terminal 40A, displays web pages (screens) displaying information about products and services, screens for accepting instructions such as purchases and payments, and other screens related to online commerce on the user terminal 40A. A description of the basic functions of the EC server 80 is omitted here.
On the other hand, the intermediary server 10 and the settlement server 30 are substantially the same as those described in Figures 1 to 21. That is, the intermediary server 10 registers the user ID in association with the credit card number generated by the credit card company, makes a settlement request to the settlement server 30 in response to a settlement instruction from the user or business associated with the purchase of a product, and transmits the settlement result executed by the settlement server 30 and information associated with the issuance of the card to the user or business.

In FIG. 23, a user operates user terminal 40A, launches a browser, and enters a URL to access EC server 80 managed and operated by the business (step S2300). The user then enters application information from a web page for card membership applications provided by EC server 80 (step S2301). The entered application information is sent to EC server 80 along with the user's user ID. EC server 80 then transmits the application information to 30. The subsequent processes of screening and card issuance by payment server 30, linking the card number with the user ID by intermediary server 10, and notifying user terminal 40A of the screening results and benefit information (steps S2304 to S2309) are the same as those of S1403 to S1407 shown in FIG. 14. If the card membership screening is passed, a flag indicating that payment can be made using the credit card number and user ID is stored in user terminal 40A in association with access information (such as a URL) to EC server 80.

Figure 24 shows an example of the above flag information stored in the memory unit of user terminal 40A. In this example, user ID 2402, credit card number 2403, and user ID payment flag 2404 are stored in association with EC site ID 2301, which is an identifier that uniquely identifies the EC site. The information shown in Figure 24 is stored, for example, as a cookie for the browser application, and is sent to EC server 80 as needed after the browser application is launched on user terminal 40A. Note that the information shown in Figure 24 may be stored in the EC server 80 instead of user terminal 40A, or may be stored in both user terminal 40A and EC server 80. In short, when user terminal 40A accesses EC server 80 to perform a commercial transaction, it is sufficient for the EC server 80 to know that payment by user ID is possible when using this EC site.

Figure 25 shows the operation when a user conducts a commercial transaction on the EC server 80 after a card has been issued. First, the user accesses the EC server 80 and, if necessary, performs a login operation, such as entering a user ID and password (steps S2501 and S2502). The EC server 80 checks the above flag information from a cookie or the like, obtains information indicating whether payment using the user ID is possible, and performs activation processing if payment using the user ID is possible. The activation processing involves generating a web page including a display object for specifying payment using the user ID when a payment request is received from the user terminal 40A and payment using the user ID is possible.

Using Figure 26, we will explain an example of the differences in the screens generated by the EC server 80 and displayed on the user terminal 40A depending on whether a flag is set. Figure 26 (a) is a screen for selecting an item to purchase, and is displayed regardless of whether a flag is set. When a user enters payment instructions in the state shown in Figure 26 (a), if the flag is not set, a screen such as Figure 26 (b) is displayed, and the credit card previously registered by the user is displayed as a possible payment method. On the other hand, if the flag is set, the activation process is performed by the EC server 80, and the screen shown in Figure 26 (c) is displayed, and the user can select payment using their user ID in addition to a separately registered credit card.

Returning to FIG. 25, when the user selects a product and specifies a payment method (step S2504), the EC server 80 sends a payment request to the intermediary server 10 or the payment server 30, depending on the selected payment method. Specifically, if the above flag is present, the EC server 80 sends a payment request to the intermediary server 10 along with the user ID (step S2505B), while if the above flag is not present, the EC server 80 sends a payment request to the payment server 30, similar to conventional credit card payments (step S2505A). The processing of steps S2506 to S2512 is essentially the same as the processing shown in FIG. 16, so a description thereof will be omitted.

In each of the above embodiments, as shown in Figures 13, 16, 18, 20, and 25, once a credit card number is generated, the user can immediately make a payment using that credit card number. At this time, the user or business possesses or obtains the card screening results as well as the bonus information associated with the card issuance, and is therefore able to use this specific information. If the business incorporates link information to the access destination (payment server 30) for applying for a card into the application program used by the user to search for and purchase products, the entire process from purchase to immediate issuance and use of the card (including use of bonus information) can be completed in one go, improving user convenience.

3. Other Examples The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible. Some modifications are described below. Two or more of the features described in the following modifications may be used in combination.

(1) Proxy Processing of Card Application In the above embodiment, the payment server 30 issues cards and processes applications, but a dedicated server may be provided to process applications.

Figure 27 shows a schematic diagram of an information processing system SB according to a modified example. The information processing system SB is an information processing system S that includes a card enrollment agent server 60 for performing card enrollment-related processing that was previously handled by the payment server 30. The card enrollment agent server 60 is managed and operated, for example, by a business operator or a company commissioned by a credit card issuer, and acquires application information and business operator identification information on behalf of the payment server 30, and transmits the acquired application information and business operator identification information to the payment server 30. The business operator identification information includes, for example, a string of characters consisting of at least one of letters and numbers. The business operator identification information may also include the name of the business operator.

28 shows an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system SB. The information processing system SB includes a storage unit 203, a receiving unit 701, a transmitting unit 702, an acquiring unit 703, a transmitting unit 704, an acquiring unit 705, a generating unit 706, a transmitting unit 707, a transmitting unit 709, and a transmitting unit 711.
The storage means 203 and acquisition means 710 are implemented in the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 708 is implemented in the settlement server 30. The acceptance means 701 and transmission means 702 are implemented in the user terminal 40. The acquisition means 703 and transmission means 704 are implemented in the card enrollment agency server 60. The acquisition means 705, the generation means 706, and the transmission means 707 are implemented in the settlement server 30. The transmission means 711 is implemented in the business operator's server 90.

First, we will explain the functions of the intermediary server 10. The storage means 203 stores various data. The storage means 203 also stores a user information database. The acquisition means 710 acquires the user ID and credit card number from the payment server 30.

Next, the functions of the user terminal 40 will be explained. The reception means 701 receives input of application information and business identification information based on user operation. The transmission means 702 transmits the application information and business identification information to the card enrollment agency server 60 via the business server 90.

The transmission means 711 of the business server 90 transmits the application information and business identification information received from the user terminal 40 to the card enrollment agency server 60. Note that the business identification information may not be entered on the user terminal 40, but may instead be added to the application information in the business server 90 and transmitted to the card enrollment agency server 60.

Next, we will explain the functions of the card enrollment agency server 60. The acquisition means 703 acquires application information and business operator identification information from the user terminal 40. The transmission means 704 transmits the application information and business operator identification information to the payment server 30.

Figure 29 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the card application proxy server 60. The card application proxy server 60 is a computer device having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 61, memory 62, storage 63, and a communication IF (Interface) 64. The CPU 61 is a control device that executes programs to perform various calculations and controls the other hardware elements of the card application proxy server 60. The memory 62 is a main storage device that functions as a work area when the CPU 61 executes programs. The storage 63 is a non-volatile auxiliary storage device that stores various programs and data. The communication IF 64 is a communication device that communicates with other devices according to a predetermined communication standard (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)).

In this example, storage 63 stores a program (hereinafter referred to as the "card enrollment agency server program") for causing the computer device to function as the card enrollment agency server 60 in information processing system S. When CPU 61 executes the card enrollment agency server program, the functions shown in FIG. 28 are implemented in the computer device. When CPU 61 is executing the card enrollment agency server program, CPU 61 is an example of control means 213, and communication IF 64 is an example of acquisition means 703 and transmission means 704.

Figure 30 shows a modified example of the processing shown in steps S1401 to S1405 of Figure 13, from when application information is input at the user terminal 40 until the user ID and credit card number are associated and stored in the intermediary server 10.

In step S2201, the accepting means 701 of the user terminal 40 accepts input of application information and business identification information based on user operation. In steps S2202A and S2202B, the transmitting means 702 of the user terminal 40 transmits the application information and business identification information to the card enrollment agency server 60 via the business server 90. The acquiring means 703 of the card enrollment agency server 60 acquires the application information and business identification information from the business server 90.

In step S2203, the transmission means 704 of the card enrollment agency server 60 transmits the application information and business identification information to the payment server 30.

In step S2204, the generation means 706 of the payment server 30 generates a credit card number based on the received application information and business identification information. In step S2206, the transmission means 709 of the payment server 30 transmits the user ID included in the application information and the generated credit card number to the intermediary server 10. The acquisition means 710 of the intermediary server 10 acquires the user ID and credit card number from the payment server 30. In step S2207, the storage means 203 of the intermediary server 10 associates and stores the user ID and credit card number transmitted in step S2205.

In this embodiment, the payment server 30, which handles screening for new card issuance and credit management (payments), does not need to perform processing related to card enrollment, thereby reducing the processing load on the payment server 30.

The function of issuing credit card numbers may be separated from the payment server 30, with the payment server 30 solely responsible for the payment function. Specifically, a server is provided that receives application information from the intermediary server 10 or the card enrollment agent server 60 and notifies the intermediary server 10 of the issued credit card number and user ID.

(2) Intermediate Server The intermediary server 10 may be managed and operated by another business that cooperates with the business that issues the credit card, or may be managed and operated by the business that issues the credit card itself. An intermediary server 10 may be provided for each business that issues a credit card, or one intermediary server 10 may be provided for businesses that issue multiple credit cards (in other words, multiple payment servers 30).

If there are multiple intermediary servers 10, the user terminal 40 and the store terminal 50 may be configured to, upon reading the two-dimensional code, send a request for execution of payment to a specific one of the intermediary servers 10, regardless of the issuer of the credit card. In this case, the specific one of the intermediary servers 10 identifies the issuer of the credit card from the information included in the request obtained from the terminal that read the two-dimensional code (i.e., the user terminal 40 or the store terminal 50), and requests the execution of payment from the payment server 30 corresponding to the issuer of the credit card.
If an intermediary server 10 is provided for each credit card issuer, the store terminal 50 that reads the two-dimensional code may identify a credit card issuer from the credit card number if the credit card number contains information that identifies the credit card issuer, and may request the execution of payment from one intermediary server 10 corresponding to the identified issuer.

(3) Others In the above-described embodiments, the user terminal 40 and the store terminal 50 are not limited to being a smartphone or a tablet PC, but may be, for example, a PC (personal computer) or a desktop computer.

The correspondence between functional elements and hardware elements in the information processing system S is not limited to that exemplified in the embodiment. For example, some of the functions described as the intermediary server 10 in the embodiment may be implemented in another server. Alternatively, some of the functions described as the intermediary server 10 in the embodiment may be implemented in another device on the network. The intermediary server 10 may be a physical server or a virtual server (including so-called cloud).

The operations of the information processing systems S, SA, and SB described above are examples, and the order of the processing procedures of the information processing system S may be changed as long as there is no contradiction. In addition, some of the processing procedures of the information processing systems S, SA, and SB may be omitted.

In short, the information processing system of the present invention may include the following steps: a user terminal accepts input of application information used for screening to issue a credit card number to the user of the user terminal; an intermediary server registers a user ID assigned to the user of the user terminal by a business providing a product or service and a credit card number issued based on the application information received from the user terminal, in association with each other; upon receiving notification from the intermediary server that the credit card number has been issued, activates a payment function of an application program provided by the business and executed on the user terminal; the user terminal uses the activated payment function to accept a payment instruction from the user regarding the purchase of a product or use of a service; upon receiving a payment request including at least the user ID and amount information including the purchase amount of the product or service related to the payment instruction, the intermediary server identifies the credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmits the credit card number together with the amount information to a payment server; and the payment server performs payment processing based on the card number and amount information received from the intermediary server.

Here, the application program may be one created and managed by a business and distributed to customers, as explained using Figures 1 to 21, or it may be a general-purpose browser program for accessing an EC site, as explained using Figures 22 to 26. Furthermore, activation of the application program may be essentially executed on the user terminal, or, as explained using Figures 22 to 26, it may be essentially executed by the EC server (business-side device), or it may be realized as a hybrid as a result of information exchange between the user terminal and the business-side device (store terminal or EC server).

The various programs exemplified in the embodiments may be provided by downloading via a network such as the Internet, or may be provided recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a DVD-ROM.

S, SA, SB... Information processing system, 10... Intermediary server, 11... CPU, 12... Memory, 13... Storage, 14... Communication IF, 20... Network, 30... Payment server, 31... CPU, 32... Memory, 33... Storage, 34... Communication IF, 40, 40A... User terminal, 41... CPU, 42... Memory, 43... Storage, 44... Communication IF, 45... Input unit, 46... Display, 50... Store terminal, 51... CPU, 52... Memory, 53... Storage, 54... Communication IF, 55... Input unit, 56... Display, 60... Card application agent server, 61... CPU, 62... Memory, 63... Storage, 64... Communication IF, 80... EC server, 90... Business operator server, 91... CPU, 92... Memory, 93... Storage, 94... Communication IF

Claims (10)

a step of accepting, at a user terminal, input of application information to be used for screening for issuing a credit card number to a user of the user terminal;
a step in which the intermediary server registers, in association with each other, a user ID given to the user of the user terminal by a business providing a product or service, which is received from the payment server, and a credit card number issued based on the application information received from the user terminal;
Upon receiving a notification from the payment server that the credit card number has been issued, activating a payment function of an application program provided by the business operator and executed on the user terminal;
The user terminal receives a payment instruction from the user regarding the purchase of a product or the use of a service using the activated payment function;
when the intermediary server receives a payment request including at least the user ID and amount information including the purchase amount of the product or service related to the payment instruction, identifying a credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmitting the credit card number together with the amount information to the payment server;
and a step in which the payment server performs payment processing based on the card number and amount information received from the intermediary server,
The payment processing step performed using the activated payment function includes :
a step in which, when a product to be purchased or a service to be used is designated by the user, the user terminal requests information for generating a code indicating the amount information from the intermediary server;
and when the user terminal receives from the intermediary server information for generating a code indicating the amount information, the user terminal displays the code.
Payment method. a step of accepting, at a user terminal, input of application information to be used for screening for issuing a credit card number to a user of the user terminal;
a step in which the intermediary server registers, in association with each other, a user ID given to the user of the user terminal by a business providing a product or service, which is received from the payment server, and a credit card number issued based on the application information received from the user terminal;
Upon receiving a notification from the payment server that the credit card number has been issued, activating a payment function of an application program provided by the business operator and executed on the user terminal;
The user terminal receives a payment instruction from the user regarding the purchase of a product or the use of a service using the activated payment function;
when the intermediary server receives a payment request including at least the user ID and amount information including the purchase amount of the product or service related to the payment instruction, identifying a credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmitting the credit card number together with the amount information to the payment server;
and a step in which the payment server performs payment processing based on the card number and amount information received from the intermediary server,
The payment processing step performed using the activated payment function includes:
a step in which, when the user terminal reads a code displayed at a business that sells the product or a facility that provides the service, the user terminal transmits information included in the read code information to the intermediary server;
and when the user terminal receives a read confirmation notification from the intermediary server, the user terminal accepts input of the amount information from the user. a step of accepting, at a user terminal, input of application information to be used for screening for issuing a credit card number to a user of the user terminal;
a step in which the intermediary server registers, in association with each other, a user ID given to the user of the user terminal by a business providing a product or service, which is received from the payment server, and a credit card number issued based on the application information received from the user terminal;
Upon receiving a notification from the payment server that the credit card number has been issued, activating a payment function of an application program provided by the business operator and executed on the user terminal;
The user terminal receives a payment instruction from the user regarding the purchase of a product or the use of a service using the activated payment function;
when the intermediary server receives a payment request including at least the user ID and amount information including the purchase amount of the product or service related to the payment instruction, identifying a credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmitting the credit card number together with the amount information to the payment server;
and a step in which the payment server performs payment processing based on the card number and amount information received from the intermediary server,
In the payment processing step performed using the activated payment function , an object for accepting a request for a commercial transaction using the issued credit card number is displayed on the screen of the user terminal. The payment method of claim 1, further comprising a step in which, when a business server to which the user terminal accesses while the application program is running receives notification from the payment server that the credit card number has been issued, it generates benefit information indicating the benefits to be granted to the user in connection with the issuance of the credit card number. The payment method according to claim 4 , wherein the content of the benefit is determined based on the period of time that has elapsed since the credit card number was issued. The content of the benefit is determined based on the number of commercial transactions based on the credit card number.
The payment method according to claim 4. a step in which a card enrollment agent server receives application information including the user ID and business identification information identifying a business that has issued the user ID from the business server;
The payment method according to claim 4, further comprising the step of transmitting the received application information and business identification information to the payment server. The payment method according to claim 1 , wherein the payment instruction includes information indicating the number or timing of payments. A computer on a user terminal that runs an application program provided by a business that introduces products or services,
a step of accepting input of application information to be used for screening to issue a credit card number to the user of the user terminal;
transmitting the accepted application information to a payment server;
When the payment server receives a notification that the credit card number has been issued, the payment server activates a payment function of the application program using an intermediary server that stores the user ID assigned by the business operator and the issued credit card number in association with each other;
accepting payment instructions from the user regarding the purchase of goods or the use of services using the activated payment function;
and a step of associating the accepted payment instruction with the user ID and transmitting the instruction to the intermediary server. A system including a user terminal, an intermediary server, and a payment server,
The user terminal
A means for executing an application program provided by a business that introduces a product or service;
means for accepting input of application information to be used for screening to issue a credit card number to the user of the user terminal;
means for transmitting the accepted application information to the payment server;
a means for activating a payment function of the application program using an intermediary server that stores a user ID assigned by the business operator and the issued credit card number in association with each other when the payment server receives a notification from the payment server that the credit card number has been issued;
means for receiving payment instructions from the user regarding the purchase of goods or the use of services using the activated payment function;
means for transmitting the accepted payment instruction and the user ID to the intermediary server in association with each other;
The intermediary server
a means for registering the user ID received from the payment server and the credit card number notified from the payment server in association with each other;
a means for, upon receiving a payment request including at least the user ID and payment information related to the payment instruction, identifying a credit card number corresponding to the user ID and transmitting the credit card number together with the payment information to a payment server;
The payment server
A purchasing system having means for performing payment processing based on the credit card number and payment information received from the intermediary server.