TWI894486B - Checkout systems, checkout methods, and program products - Google Patents

Abstract

[Topic] Providing users with an incentive to visit a store again. [Solution] The checkout request acceptance means (101) of the checkout system (S) accepts a checkout request required to use the checkout means at the first store where the checkout means can be used. The checkout processing execution means (102) executes the checkout processing when the checkout request has been accepted. The use gift granting means (103) grants the remaining balance of the store-use checkout means used by the first store as a gift to the first user who used the checkout means when the checkout processing has been executed. The use restriction means (104) restricts the use of the store-use checkout means at the second store so that the store-use checkout means cannot be used.

Description

Checkout systems, checkout methods, and program products

This disclosure relates to checkout systems, checkout methods, and program products.

Technologies that impose usage conditions on payment methods such as electronic money are already known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method in which a user's general credit, which covers a greater number of services than the specific credit, is recorded in the terminal. A user's general credit must be converted into a specific credit before it can be transferred to another user. Patent Document 2 describes a method for providing subsidies to people receiving social security benefits. To prevent the credit from being used for purposes other than its intended purpose, the use of electronic credits is assessed and the intended purpose is limited.

Patent Document 3 describes recording general electronic money, whose usage is not limited to specific stores, stores, product types, or products, and specific electronic money, whose usage is limited, on an IC card. Patent Document 4 describes enabling electronic money only for the payment purpose for which it is set, preventing it from being used for other purposes. Patent Document 5 describes closed-type money, which can only be used to purchase specific products, and open-type money, which has no restrictions on the products that can be purchased. Patent Document 6 describes giving children pocket money with electronic money that has a specific usage limit. [Prior Art Document] [Patent Document]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-111564 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-097053 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-353397 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-102726 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-109429 [Patent Document 6] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-293108

[The problem that the invention aims to solve]

In a checkout service, users who use the checkout mechanism at a particular store are awarded points as a gift. These points are valid at all participating stores, allowing users to redeem them at other stores. Consequently, prior art offers no strong incentive for users who have already visited a store to return. For example, the techniques of Patent Documents 1-4 and 6 simply restrict the use of electronic currency for unintended purposes, thus providing no incentive for users to return. Although the technology of Patent Document 5 provides a kind of gift to users, it only provides advertisements when users browse advertisements on the Internet. Therefore, it does not provide users with an incentive to visit the store again.

One of the objectives of this disclosure is to provide users with an incentive to revisit the store. [Means for Solving the Problem]

The checkout system disclosed herein includes: checkout request accepting means for accepting a checkout request for utilizing a pre-recorded checkout means at a first store where the checkout means is available; checkout processing executing means for executing a checkout process if the pre-recorded checkout request has been accepted; use gift granting means for granting the remaining balance of the store-use checkout means previously recorded at the first store as a gift to the first user who utilized the pre-recorded checkout means if the pre-recorded checkout process has been executed; and use restriction means for restricting the use of the pre-recorded store-use checkout means at a second store. [Effects of the Invention]

According to this disclosure, users can be motivated to visit the store again.

[1. First Implementation Form]

An example of an implementation of the checkout system described in this disclosure is described below, namely the first implementation.

[1-1. Overall Configuration of the Checkout System] Figure 1 illustrates an example of the overall configuration of the checkout system described in the first embodiment. For example, checkout system S includes a server 10, a user terminal 20, and a store terminal 30. Network N is any network such as the Internet or a LAN. Checkout system S only needs to include at least one computer and is not limited to the example in Figure 1.

Server 10 is a server computer. Control unit 11 includes at least one processor. Memory unit 12 includes volatile memory such as RAM and non-volatile memory such as a hard drive. Communication unit 13 includes at least one of a communication interface for wired communication and a communication interface for wireless communication.

User terminal 20 is the user's computer. For example, user terminal 20 is a smartphone, tablet, wearable terminal, or personal computer. The physical configuration of control unit 21, memory unit 22, and communication unit 23 is the same as control unit 11, memory unit 12, and communication unit 13, respectively. Operation unit 24 is an input device such as a touch panel. Display unit 25 is a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

The store terminal 30 is the store's computer. For example, the store terminal 30 is a POS terminal, a personal computer, a tablet, or a smartphone. The physical components of the control unit 31, memory unit 32, communication unit 33, operation unit 34, and display unit 35 are identical to the control unit 11, memory unit 12, communication unit 13, operation unit 24, and display unit 25, respectively. A reader device 36, such as a barcode reader, a reader/writer, or a camera, is connected to the store terminal 30. The reader device 36 may also be included in the store terminal 30.

In addition, the programs stored in each of the memory units 12, 22, and 32 can also be supplied via the network N. Furthermore, the programs stored in a computer-readable information storage medium can also be supplied via a reading unit required for reading the information storage medium (such as an optical disc drive or a memory card slot) or an input/output unit required for inputting and outputting data with an external device (such as a USB port).

[1-2. Overview of the First Embodiment] In a checkout system S, a checkout service is provided to each of a plurality of users. The checkout service provides electronic checkout. Electronic checkout is sometimes also referred to as cashless checkout. Each user has his or her own user terminal 20. The checkout service can be used at at least one store. If the checkout service can be used at multiple stores, each store has at least one store terminal 30.

The first embodiment describes a case where an online electronic currency called e-cash serves as a payment method. Therefore, where electronic cash is mentioned, it can be replaced with a payment method. Payment methods that can be used in the payment service can be of any type, such as credit cards, debit cards, electronic currency, points, bank accounts, electronic wallets, virtual currencies, or a combination of these. Codes such as barcodes or QR codes, or coupons, can also serve as payment methods. In other words, the payment service can utilize any type of payment method: prepaid, postpaid, or debit. Although details will be described later, in the first embodiment, the store payment method given to users as a gift is not a coupon, etc., but a prepaid payment method with a balance such as electronic cash.

While the first embodiment describes the use of the billing service through a billing application installed on the user terminal 20, the billing service can be used through any medium other than the billing application. For example, the billing service can be used using an IC chip, IC card, or magnetic card contained in the user terminal 20. Furthermore, the billing service can be used solely through biometric authentication, such as facial recognition, without using the user terminal 20 or a card. For example, after completing the required user login through the billing application, the user enters their user ID and password to log in to the billing service, thereby enabling the use of the billing service.

Figure 2 illustrates an example screen of a checkout application. Once a user logs into the checkout service, the checkout application's main screen G1 is displayed on the display unit 25. Displayed on the main screen G1 is a code C10 required to use the payment method set as the payment source. While the first embodiment describes the use of electronic cash as the payment source, the payment source can be changed to another payment method, such as a credit card or bank account.

For example, in the checkout application, not only can users check out using electronic cash, but they can also send electronic cash to other users. Users can switch between the functions of the checkout application by selecting buttons B11 and B12. In the first embodiment, since the user uses electronic cash in a store, Figure 2 shows button B11 selected. A store is a franchisee of the checkout service. A store can be any type of store, for example, a retail store such as a convenience store or a food and beverage establishment such as a restaurant.

When a user wishes to pay for something at a store, the main screen G1 is displayed on the display unit 25. For example, once a store clerk reads the code C10 using the reader 36, a predetermined checkout process is executed between the store terminal 30 and the server 10. The checkout process itself can utilize various known processes. In the first embodiment, since electronic cash is set as the payment source, the checkout process involves reducing the balance of the electronic cash.

Once the checkout process is complete, a checkout completion screen G2 is displayed on the display unit 25, indicating that the checkout process has been completed. In Figure 2, English letters are added to the end of the G2 symbol to distinguish the different checkout completion screens G2. This applies to the other figures as well. Checkout completion screen G2A is displayed when the user checks out at "XXX Convenience Store." Checkout completion screen G2B is displayed when the user checks out at "YYY Store."

In the first embodiment, when a user checks out at a specific store, electronic cash for that store is issued to the user. For example, when a user checks out at "XXX Convenience Store," electronic cash for "XXX Convenience Store" is issued. This electronic cash can only be used at "XXX Convenience Store." Hereinafter, electronic cash for specific stores will be referred to as store electronic cash. Universal electronic cash that can be used at all franchise stores will be referred to as general electronic cash. When there is no need to distinguish between store electronic cash and general electronic cash, they will simply be referred to as electronic cash.

For example, if a user visits a store that is currently holding a sale, the store's electronic cash will be granted to the user. In the example of Figure 2, "XXX Convenience Store" is currently holding a sale. As shown on the checkout completion screen G2A, once the user visits "XXX Convenience Store," the store's electronic cash will be granted to the user. On the other hand, "YYY Store" is not holding a sale. As shown on the checkout completion screen G2B, even if the user visits "YYY Store," the store's electronic cash will not be granted. The store's electronic cash granted to "XXX Convenience Store" can be used for the next purchase at "XXX Convenience Store." Stores use electronic cash, which can also be awarded together with other gifts such as points.

Figure 3 illustrates an example of a checkout application screen when store electronic cash has been issued. As shown in Figure 3, the main screen G1 displays the balance of general electronic cash and the balance of store electronic cash. In the first embodiment, for simplicity, the example uses the store electronic cash of "XXX Convenience Store," but store electronic cash at other stores may also exist. In this case, to make it easier to identify the store at which the store electronic cash balance is located, a display such as "XXX Convenience Store Store Electronic Cash" or "ZZZ Coffee Store Electronic Cash" may also be used.

For example, if a user visits "XXX Convenience Store" and has code C10 read, checkout using store electronic cash will proceed, as shown on the checkout completion screen G2C. In the first embodiment, store electronic cash is used over standard electronic cash at stores that accept store electronic cash. If store electronic cash alone is insufficient, standard electronic cash is used in combination. Checkout completion screen G2C illustrates a situation where a user has a store electronic cash balance of 100 yen and has purchased items worth 800 yen. In this case, the store will use the full 100 won electronic cash, and the remaining 700 won will be paid using general electronic cash.

Once a user uses store-use electronic cash at "XXX Convenience Store," they will be issued store-use electronic cash for "XXX Convenience Store." As shown on the checkout completion screen G2D, if the user visits "YYY Store" and code C10 is read, they will not be able to use store-use electronic cash at "XXX Convenience Store," and only general-purpose electronic cash will be used. Furthermore, users can specify whether to use store-use electronic cash at "XXX Convenience Store" or whether to use both store-use electronic cash and general-purpose electronic cash.

As described above, in the first embodiment, once a user uses electronic cash at a specific store, they are given store-specific electronic cash as a gift. Store-specific electronic cash can only be used at the store where the user used the electronic cash. Therefore, users are more likely to visit the same store again in order to use the store-specific electronic cash they received as a gift. This provides users with an incentive to visit the store again. The following describes the details of the first embodiment.

[1-3. Functions Implemented in the First Embodiment] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions implemented in the first embodiment.

[1-3-1. Functions Implemented in the Server] The data storage unit 100 is implemented primarily by the memory unit 12. The payment request reception unit 101, payment processing execution unit 102, usage gift granting unit 103, and usage restriction unit 104 are each implemented primarily by the control unit 11.

[Data Storage] Data storage 100 stores data required to provide checkout services to users. For example, data storage 100 stores the user database DB.

Figure 5 illustrates an example of a user database DB. A user database DB is a database that stores user information. For example, the user database DB stores user IDs, passwords, user names, code IDs, electronic cash information, and usage history. Once a user completes a registration, a new record is created in the user database DB, storing the user's user ID and other information.

A user ID is an example of user identification information that can identify a user. Therefore, any place where a user ID is entered can be replaced with user identification information. User identification information can be arbitrary information, and other information such as an email address or phone number can also be used. A user ID is also called an account. A user ID and password are used to log in to the billing service.

In this embodiment, to identify the user requesting checkout, code C10 must include some form of user identification information. While a user ID can also be included in code C10, this embodiment describes the inclusion of the code ID in code C10. The code ID is a type of user identification information. It is information different from the user ID. For example, the code ID is represented by a number, text, or a combination of these.

Code IDs can be issued at any time. Code IDs can also be assigned an expiration date. For example, a Code ID may be issued when the application is launched, when the expiration date expires, or when the user instructs reissue. The method for issuing Code IDs can be arbitrary. Code IDs are issued so that they do not overlap with other Code IDs within their expiration date. For example, Code IDs may be issued randomly.

Electronic cash information refers to information about electronic cash held by a user. For example, electronic cash information includes the balance of general electronic cash, the store ID of each store where the store-use electronic cash can be used, and the balance of the store-use electronic cash. The balance of the store-use electronic cash is associated with the store ID of the store where the store-use electronic cash can be used. The store ID is an example of store identification information that can identify the store. Store identification information can also be information other than the store ID, such as the store's email address or phone number.

In the example shown in Figure 5, user "Yamada Taro" holds 3,500 yen in general-purpose electronic cash and 100 yen in store-use electronic cash at the store identified by store ID "s00001." User "Kimura Hanako" in Figure 5 holds 2,340 yen in general-purpose electronic cash, 400 yen in store-use electronic cash at the store identified by store ID "s00001," and 700 yen in store-use electronic cash at the store identified by store ID "s00002." User "Suzuki Hideo" holds 8,700 yen in general-purpose electronic cash and no store-use electronic cash.

The examples in Figures 2 and 3 illustrate a single store-based electronic cash for simplicity. However, each user, such as the user "Kimura Hanako," can hold multiple store-based electronic cash. For example, a limit can be set on the number of store-based electronic cash a user can hold. For example, a limit can be set on the balance of each store-based electronic cash. The limit can be a common value for all store-based electronic cash or a different value for each store-based electronic cash.

While the first embodiment describes a scenario where the store's electronic cash balance increases upon using the checkout service at a particular store, the store's electronic cash balance can also be increased by any other method. For example, the store's electronic cash balance can be increased as a gift for visiting a particular store. The method for detecting store visits can utilize known methods, such as check-in using a barcode or QR code, check-in using near-field wireless communication, check-in using location information detected by GPS, or check-in using biometric authentication such as facial recognition.

For example, store electronic cash can be topped up using other payment methods, such as credit cards. In this case, top-up can be performed under more favorable conditions than with regular electronic cash. For example, with regular electronic cash, to top up 1,000 yen, a payment of the same amount, 1,000 yen, must be made using another payment method, such as a credit card. With store electronic cash, even if a 1,000 yen top-up is made, a bonus of 200 yen is still awarded, allowing a 1,200 yen top-up. The bonus can be a fixed amount or an amount corresponding to the purchase amount.

For example, balances from other payment methods, such as electronic currency or points, can be converted into electronic cash for use in stores. This conversion method can utilize various well-known methods, such as converting one point into another, converting points into electronic currency, or converting electronic currency into points. Converting balances from other payment methods into electronic cash for use in stores can generate bonuses, while converting balances from other payment methods into electronic cash for use in stores can incur a predetermined fee. Furthermore, for example, electronic cash can be given to stores as a gift for using services other than payment services (e.g., e-commerce transactions, travel reservations, communications, or financial services).

Furthermore, electronic cash information may include information other than the information shown in Figure 5, such as an electronic cash ID. The electronic cash ID is an example of electronic cash identification information that can identify electronic cash. Electronic cash identification information may also be information other than the electronic cash ID, such as an electronic cash number. If a user holds multiple electronic cash items, each electronic cash item can be identified using the electronic cash identification information. If a user holds both general-purpose electronic cash and store-use electronic cash, the general-purpose electronic cash and the store-use electronic cash are identified using the electronic cash identification information of the general-purpose electronic cash and the electronic cash identification information of the store-use electronic cash.

Usage history information is information about a user's usage history of the checkout service. For example, usage history information includes the date and time of use, store identification information identifying the store used, information identifying the checkout method used, and the amount used. If the server 10 can obtain product information identifying the products purchased by the user, the usage history information may also include product information. Whenever a user uses the checkout service, the user's usage history information is updated.

Furthermore, the information stored in the user database DB is not limited to the example shown in FIG5 . For example, the user database DB may also store information regarding payment methods other than electronic cash. For example, if the payment method is a credit card, the payment method information includes the credit card number, expiration date, and nominee information. If the payment method is electronic currency, the payment method information includes: an electronic currency ID that identifies the electronic currency, and the balance of the electronic currency. If the payment method is points, the payment method information includes: a point ID that identifies the points, and the balance of the points. Similarly, for other payment methods, the payment method information will include information that identifies the payment method. If a user has multiple payment methods, the payment method information will also include information identifying the payment source. The payment source can be changed by the user.

Furthermore, the data stored in the data storage unit 100 is not limited to the user database DB. For example, the data storage unit 100 may also store a store database related to stores. The store database stores various information such as store ID, store name, address, region, store terminal ID, whether the store holds promotional events, and whether the store accepts electronic cash. The store terminal ID is terminal identification information that can identify the store terminal 30. Terminal identification information may also be other information such as an IP address or individual identification information of the store terminal 30.

[Checkout Request Acceptance Unit] Checkout Request Acceptance Unit 101 accepts checkout requests for electronic cash at stores accepting electronic cash. Hereinafter, the store to which electronic cash is issued is designated as the first store. The first store is the store where electronic cash is accepted. The first store is the store where the user used the checkout service. The fees for issuing electronic cash to a store may be borne by the first store or by the checkout service administrator. In the first embodiment, a store currently holding a promotion for issuing electronic cash to a store is considered the first store. A billing request is a notification requesting the execution of a billing process. A billing request is processed by sending data in a specified format.

In this embodiment, once the store terminal 30 reads the code C10 using the reading device 36, it obtains the code ID contained in the code C10. The store terminal 30 then sends a checkout request containing the code ID to the server 10. For example, the checkout request may include the store ID, the code ID, and the usage amount. The checkout request receiving unit 101 receives the checkout request from the store terminal 30 and accepts the checkout request. The checkout request receiving unit 101 may also accept the checkout request via a computer other than the store terminal 30.

Furthermore, the information included in a checkout request is not limited to the examples in the first embodiment. A checkout request may include any information. For example, a checkout request may include a store terminal ID. Using not only the store ID but also the store terminal ID can identify the store from which the checkout request originated. Furthermore, for example, a checkout request may include product information about the product the user wishes to purchase or service information about the service the user wishes to utilize.

[Checkout Processing Execution Unit] The Checkout Processing Execution Unit 102 executes checkout processing when a checkout request is accepted. For example, once a checkout request is accepted, the Checkout Processing Execution Unit references the user database DB and retrieves the electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the checkout request. The user identified by this code ID is the user who made the checkout request (e.g., the user who presented the code ID to a store clerk). The Checkout Processing Execution Unit 102 executes checkout processing based on this electronic cash information. Based on the results of the checkout processing, the Checkout Processing Execution Unit 102 updates the usage history information associated with the code ID included in the checkout request. The checkout processing execution unit 102 sends the checkout processing execution results to the store terminal 30.

The checkout process of the first embodiment is a process for reducing the balance of electronic cash. Checkout processing can also be said to be a process for consuming electronic cash or a process for completing payment using electronic cash. As mentioned above, the checkout process itself can utilize various well-known methods. For example, as methods of utilizing the checkout service, there are a method in which the code disclosed by the store is read by the user terminal 20, and a method in which the user operates the user terminal 20 to select a store to utilize. In these cases, it is not the store terminal 30 but the user terminal 20 that sends the checkout request to the server 10. The checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout process based on the checkout request from the user terminal 20.

In the first embodiment, the use restriction unit 104, described below, determines whether to permit the use of store-use electronic cash. If a user identified by the ID code included in the checkout request holds multiple store-use electronic cash, the use restriction unit 104 selects the store-use electronic cash permitted from the multiple store-use electronic cash. The use restriction unit 104 may also disallow the use of all of the multiple store-use electronic cash.

If the checkout execution unit 102 determines that the use of electronic cash for store use is permitted, the checkout execution unit 102 executes the checkout process so that at least the balance of the electronic cash for store use is reduced. If the use restriction unit 104 determines that the use of electronic cash for store use is not permitted, the checkout execution unit 102 executes the checkout process so that the balance of the electronic cash for store use is not reduced, but the balance of the general electronic cash is reduced.

The checkout execution unit 102 is capable of executing checkout processing that combines store electronic cash with general-purpose electronic cash, also known as general-purpose electronic cash. For example, if store electronic cash alone is insufficient, the checkout execution unit 102 executes checkout processing by combining general-purpose electronic cash. Combining store electronic cash with general-purpose electronic cash means reducing the balance of both store electronic cash and general-purpose electronic cash.

If the user identified by the ID code included in the checkout request does not possess store-use electronic cash, the processing by the usage restriction unit 104 is omitted. In this case, the checkout execution unit 102 executes the checkout process in such a way that the balance of the user's general-purpose electronic cash is reduced. The checkout execution unit 102 only needs to determine whether the user possesses store-use electronic cash based on the user's electronic cash information. This determination can also be performed by the usage restriction unit 104.

When determining that store electronic cash is to be used, the checkout processing execution unit 102 determines whether the store electronic cash balance is sufficient based on the usage amount included in the checkout request. If the checkout processing execution unit 102 determines that the store electronic cash balance is sufficient, it executes the checkout processing so that the store electronic cash balance is reduced by the usage amount. The process of reducing the store electronic cash balance can be the same as the process of reducing the balance of general-purpose electronic cash. If the balance of the store electronic cash is determined to be insufficient, the checkout execution unit 102 executes the checkout process by combining the general-purpose electronic cash and the store electronic cash. For example, the checkout execution unit 102 executes the checkout process by fully utilizing the store electronic cash and using the general-purpose electronic cash to make up for the shortfall.

If the checkout execution unit 102 does not determine that store electronic cash is to be used, it can simply execute the checkout process based on general electronic cash. This checkout process is the same as the previous method. If the balance of general electronic cash is insufficient, the checkout process will become an error. Similarly, when general electronic cash and store electronic cash are used together, if the total balance is insufficient, the checkout process will become an error. If the total balance of general electronic cash and store electronic cash is insufficient, it is also possible to make a payment using other checkout methods such as electronic currency or points. Even if you have a sufficient balance in electronic cash, you can still make payments using other payment methods. This use of other payment methods is also called a top-up.

Furthermore, even if only store electronic cash is sufficient, the checkout processing execution unit 102 can also execute checkout processing that combines store electronic cash with general-purpose electronic cash. For example, if the balance would fall below a threshold if only store electronic cash were used, the checkout processing execution unit 102 can execute checkout processing that combines store electronic cash with general-purpose electronic cash. In addition, for example, the checkout processing execution unit 102 may also execute the checkout processing by combining the store electronic cash and the general electronic cash at a predetermined ratio, regardless of the balance of the store electronic cash.

Furthermore, the checkout execution unit 102 can execute the checkout process by using only standard electronic cash for payment even if the user has electronic cash for the store. If the user does not have electronic cash for the store, the checkout execution unit 102 can simply execute the checkout process by using only standard electronic cash for payment. If the user has electronic cash for multiple stores, the checkout execution unit 102 can simply execute the checkout process by reducing the balance of the electronic cash for the store associated with the store ID included in the checkout request.

[Use Gift Granting Unit] The use gift granting unit 103 grants a user who uses electronic cash at a particular store a balance of electronic cash available at that store as a gift. This balance represents the remaining balance of payment methods available at that store. Granting a balance of electronic cash includes both granting new electronic cash to a user who does not already have electronic cash and increasing the balance of electronic cash already held by a user. For example, the gift granting unit 103 increases the balance of the store's electronic cash (adds a value to the balance) to grant the user a gift. Hereinafter, the user who requests a checkout is referred to as the first user. In the first embodiment, the user identified by the code C10 included in the checkout request is considered the first user. The first user can also be said to be the user who receives the store's electronic cash as a gift.

In-store electronic cash refers to electronic cash that can be used at the first store. In-store electronic cash refers to electronic cash that cannot be used at the second store. A second store is a store that cannot use the in-store electronic cash of the first store. A second store is a store different from the first store. For example, a second store is a store that does not cooperate with the first store. Even if it is a store different from the first store, as long as it can use the in-store electronic cash of the first store, it does not qualify as a second store. For example, other stores that can use the first store's in-store electronic cash are chain stores in the same store group as the first store, or stores that cooperate with the first store.

While the first embodiment describes store-use electronic cash as usable only at store A, store-use electronic cash can also be used at other stores besides store A. For example, store-use electronic cash at "XXX Convenience Store" can be used not only at "XXX Convenience Store" but also at "ZZZ Coffee," a joint venture with "XXX Convenience Store." Furthermore, for example, store-use electronic cash earned by a user at store A at "XXX Convenience Store" can be used not only at "XXX Convenience Store A" but also at store B, a chain within the same store group. In this case, it is assumed that the store ID of each first store where the store-use electronic cash can be used is defined in the data memory unit 100. If a certain store-use electronic cash can be used in multiple first stores, multiple store IDs will be associated with the one store-use electronic cash.

After the checkout process has been executed, the gift granting unit 103 grants the first user electronic cash for use in the store, also known as store cash, as a gift to the first user who used the electronic cash. Granting store cash means making the store cash available for use. For example, increasing the balance of the first user's store cash or granting store cash to the first user who does not already have store cash is equivalent to granting store cash. Assigning a new store cash means associating store cash information with a user ID or code ID. This information can be any store cash information, such as the store cash balance or the store cash ID.

For example, if the first user does not already have store-use electronic cash, the gift giving unit 103 can add the store ID and the store-use electronic cash balance to the electronic cash information to give the first user store-use electronic cash. Alternatively, if the first user already has store-use electronic cash, the gift giving unit 103 can increase the store-use electronic cash balance included in the electronic cash information to give the first user store-use electronic cash. The method of giving electronic cash to a user can utilize various known methods and is not limited to these examples. For example, if blockchain is used as in the variant described below, electronic cash can be provided to stores by generating new tokens, or by increasing the balance associated with existing tokens.

Furthermore, while this example illustrates a store giving electronic cash as a gift to a user who uses electronic cash at a store, the payment method used by the user at the store and the payment method given as a gift to the user may be different. For example, if a user uses a credit card at a store, the store may also give electronic cash as a gift to the user. In other words, if a user uses a payment method other than electronic cash, the store may also give electronic cash as a gift to the user.

[Usage Restriction Unit] Usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of store-use electronic cash at the second store. The second store is a store that does not accept store-use electronic cash. The second store is a store different from the first store. For example, when a checkout request is received from the store terminal 30 at the second store, usage restriction unit 104 controls checkout processing execution unit 102 so that the checkout process is performed using general-purpose electronic cash, rather than the store-use electronic cash used at the first store.

For example, when a checkout request is accepted, the usage restriction unit 104 references the user database DB and retrieves the electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the checkout request. The usage restriction unit 104 determines whether to use store electronic cash based on the store ID included in the checkout request and the electronic cash information that should have been retrieved. For example, if the store ID included in the checkout request is stored in the electronic cash information that should have been retrieved, this means that the user identified by the code ID included in the checkout request possesses store electronic cash. Therefore, in this case, the usage restriction unit 104 determines that store electronic cash is to be used.

Furthermore, the method for determining whether to use store electronic cash is not limited to the example above. For example, the electronic cash ID of the user's store electronic cash may be included in code C10, and the usage restriction unit 104 may use the electronic cash ID included in code C10 to determine whether to use store electronic cash. In this case, once the store terminal 30 reads code C10 using the reader 36, it transmits a checkout request containing the electronic cash ID obtained from code C10 to the server 10.

The usage restriction unit 104 determines that the store-use electronic cash is to be used if the store-use electronic cash identified by the electronic cash ID included in the checkout request is for the store identified by the store ID included in the checkout request. The usage restriction unit 104 does not determine that the store-use electronic cash is to be used if the store-use electronic cash identified by the electronic cash ID included in the checkout request is not for the store identified by the store ID included in the checkout request. The usage restriction unit 104 does not determine that the store-use electronic cash is to be used if the checkout request does not include the electronic cash ID for the store-use electronic cash.

Furthermore, assuming that the relationship between the electronic cash ID of each store electronic cash and the store that can use it is defined in the data memory unit 100, the store ID can also be incorporated into a portion of the electronic cash ID. This allows the store to identify the store electronic cash based solely on the electronic cash ID. As long as it is possible to identify whether the electronic cash a user wishes to use is store electronic cash and which store the store electronic cash belongs to, it will suffice.

Alternatively, for example, the store ID of the user's store electronic cash may be included in code C10, and the usage restriction unit 104 may use the store ID contained in code C10 to determine whether the store electronic cash can be used. In this case, upon reading code C10 using reader 36, store terminal 30 transmits a checkout request containing the store ID obtained from code C10 to server 10. If the store ID of the store to which store terminal 30 is configured matches the store ID obtained from the code ID, the store electronic cash can be used. The usage restriction unit 104 may also determine whether the store electronic cash can be used by determining whether these match.

Furthermore, the method for restricting the use of electronic cash itself can utilize various known methods and is not limited to the example of the first embodiment. For example, the use restriction unit 104 can utilize the methods described in Patent Documents 1-6 to restrict the use of store-use electronic cash in the second store.

[1-3-2. Functions Implemented in the User Terminal] The data storage unit 200 is implemented primarily by the memory unit 22. The display control unit 201 is implemented primarily by the control unit 21. The data storage unit 200 stores the data necessary for providing payment services. For example, the data storage unit 200 stores the payment application, the code ID, and the expiration date of the code ID. Furthermore, the data storage unit 200 may also store the electronic cash ID or balance of the user's electronic cash. The display control unit 201 causes the code C10 containing the code ID to be displayed on the main screen G1 based on the payment application. The display control unit 201 also causes the other screens described in Figures 2 and 3 to be displayed.

[1-3-3. Functions Implemented in the Store Terminal] The data storage unit 300 is implemented primarily by the memory unit 32. The checkout request signaling unit 301 is implemented primarily by the control unit 31. The data storage unit 300 stores the data necessary to provide checkout services. For example, the data storage unit 300 stores the store ID of the store where the store terminal 30 is located and the store terminal ID of the store terminal 30. The data storage unit 300 also stores a program for obtaining the code ID contained in code C10.

The checkout request signaling unit 301 sends a checkout request to the server 10. For example, once the reading device 36 reads the code C10, the checkout request signaling unit 301 obtains the code ID contained in the code C10. The checkout request signaling unit 301 sends a checkout request containing the store ID, code ID, and usage amount to the server 10. In addition, the code ID can also be obtained optically or through communication. For example, the store terminal 30 can also obtain the code ID using Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or infrared communication, or can obtain the code ID using the near-field wireless communication used in the well-known IC card. The code ID can also be input through the operation unit 34 of the store terminal 30.

[1-4. Processing Executed in the First Embodiment] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed in the first embodiment. The processing shown in Figure 6 is executed by control units 11, 21, and 31 operating according to programs stored in memory units 12, 22, and 32. When the processing in Figure 6 is executed, it is assumed that the first user has already registered to use the billing service and installed the billing application on user terminal 20.

When the first user launches the checkout application on the user terminal 20, a login process is executed with the server 10 (S100). During the login process, the user ID and password may be requested, or information indicating past logins may be stored in the user terminal 20, thereby omitting the user ID and password input. If the login process is successful, the user terminal 20 receives the code ID issued by the server 10, and displays the main screen G1 containing the code C10 on the display unit 25 (S101).

In S101, if the user holds electronic cash for store use, the balance of their general electronic cash, along with their balance of electronic cash for store use, will be displayed on the main screen G1. This display can be based on the electronic cash information of the logged-in user. The first embodiment describes the process when button B11 is selected. The second embodiment describes the process when button B12 is selected.

Once the store terminal 30 reads the code C10 using the reader device 36, it sends a checkout request containing the store ID of the store to which it is assigned, the code ID obtained from the code C10, and the usage amount to the server 10 (S102). Upon receiving the checkout request from the store terminal 30 (S103), the server 10 determines whether to use store electronic cash based on the received checkout request (S104). In S104, the server 10 determines whether to use store electronic cash by determining whether the store ID included in the checkout request is included in the electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the checkout request.

If it is determined that electronic cash for store use will be used (S104; Y), the server 10 executes the checkout process in a manner that at least utilizes electronic cash for store use (S105). In S105, if the balance of electronic cash for store use is insufficient, the checkout process is executed in conjunction with general-purpose electronic cash. On the other hand, if it is not determined that electronic cash for store use will be used (S104; N), the server 10 executes the checkout process in a manner that utilizes general-purpose electronic cash (S106). The checkout process in S106 is the same as the previous checkout process.

Once the checkout process is complete, the server 10 determines whether to grant the store electronic cash as a gift to the first user (S107). In S107, the server 10 determines whether to grant the store electronic cash by determining whether the store ID included in the checkout request is the store ID of the store to which the electronic cash is to be granted (in the first embodiment, a store participating in the promotional event). It is assumed that the store ID of the store to which the electronic cash is to be granted is predefined in the memory unit 12.

If it is determined in S107 that electronic cash for store use is to be issued (S107; Y), the server 10 issues electronic cash for store use to the first user (S108). In S108, the server 10 updates the electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the checkout request, thereby issuing electronic cash for store use to the first user. The server 10 transmits the checkout processing results to the user terminal 20 and the store terminal 30 (S109), and this processing ends. The checkout completion screen G2 is displayed on the user terminal 20, and the same screen is also displayed on the store terminal 30.

According to the checkout system S of the first embodiment, when a checkout request to use electronic cash at a first store is received and the checkout process is executed, the first user who used the electronic cash is granted store-use electronic cash and is restricted from using the store-use electronic cash at a second store. This encourages the first user to revisit the first store in order to use the store-use electronic cash, thereby providing the first user with an incentive to revisit the first store. Furthermore, while giving the user a coupon for the first store can also provide an incentive to revisit the first store, giving the user electronic cash that can be used universally within the first store provides a stronger incentive to revisit the first store. The first user can use the electronic cash for their favorite products or services at the first store, thereby improving their convenience.

Furthermore, the checkout system S can execute checkout processing that combines store electronic cash with general-purpose electronic cash. This allows users to complete checkout using general-purpose electronic cash if store electronic cash alone is insufficient, thereby improving user convenience.

[2. Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, when a first user uses electronic cash at a first store, electronic cash for store use at the first store is given to the first user as a gift. In the second embodiment, when the first user transfers electronic cash for store use at the first store to another user, electronic cash for store use at the first store is given to the first user as a gift. Hereinafter, this other user will be referred to as the second user. In addition, in the second embodiment, descriptions of points common to the first embodiment will be omitted.

The second user is a user who receives electronic cash. The second user is a user different from the first user. For example, the second user may be a user whose contact information is registered in the phone book of the user terminal 20, or a user whose contact information or user ID, etc., has been input by the first user through the user terminal 20.

Sending e-cash can be described as moving, transferring, or transferring e-cash. "Send" here includes remitting funds. The first user can send all or part of their e-cash to the second user. When the first user sends e-cash to the second user, the first user's e-cash balance decreases, while the second user's e-cash balance increases.

[2-1. Overview of the Second Embodiment] Figure 7 illustrates an example screen of the checkout application in the second embodiment. When the first user selects button B12 on the main screen G1, the screen switches to the screen required for the first user to transfer electronic cash to the second user, as shown in main screen G1 of Figure 7. In the second embodiment, the first user can transfer either general-purpose electronic cash or store-use electronic cash to the second user. Alternatively, the first user can transfer only general-purpose electronic cash to the second user, or only store-use electronic cash to the second user.

For example, if the first user selects button B13, they can send general-purpose electronic cash to the second user. If the first user selects button B14, they can send store-use electronic cash to the second user. In the second embodiment, although the first user is described as sending store-use electronic cash to the second user, the same process applies even if the first user is sending general-purpose electronic cash to the second user. If the first user holds multiple store-use electronic cash, they can send any store-use electronic cash they specify.

When the first user selects button B14, a selection screen G3 for selecting a second user is displayed on the display unit 25. For example, users registered in the phone book of the user terminal 20 are displayed as second user candidates on the selection screen G3. The first user can also specify the second user to whom electronic cash is to be transferred this time from among second users to whom electronic cash has been transferred in the past. When the first user selects the second user on the selection screen G3, an input screen G4 for entering an amount and a message is displayed on the display unit 25. Information can also be entered arbitrarily. Adding value can also be performed on the input screen G4.

Once the first user enters the amount and message and selects button B40, a completion screen G5 indicating that the store electronic cash has been transferred from the first user to the second user is displayed on the display unit 25. The completion screen G5 displays information such as the amount and message transferred from the first user to the second user. As shown on completion screen G5, once the first user transfers the store electronic cash to the second user, the store electronic cash is given to the first user as a gift.

The example in Figure 7 shows a situation where the first user, who already has 1,500 yen in store electronic cash, transfers 1,200 yen in store electronic cash to the second user. Alternatively, the first user can receive a gift corresponding to the amount transferred from the first user to the second user, or a fixed gift regardless of the amount. The first user can use the store electronic cash received as a gift to purchase at the first store or transfer it to another second user. In the second embodiment, a gift is given to a second user when the first user transfers store-use electronic cash to the second user, thereby providing the first user with an incentive to transfer store-use electronic cash. The details of the second embodiment are described below.

[2-2. Functions Implemented in the Second Embodiment] Figure 8 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functions implemented in the second embodiment. First, the functional differences within the server 10 will be explained. The checkout processing execution unit 102, usage restriction unit 104, transfer request reception unit 105, transfer processing execution unit 106, and transfer gift granting unit 107 are primarily implemented within the control unit 11. In the second embodiment, the checkout request reception unit 101 and usage gift granting unit 103 described in the first embodiment may not be implemented.

For example, the billing request accepting unit 101 may not be implemented, and the billing process execution unit 102 may execute the billing process even if no billing request is accepted. In this case, the billing process execution unit 102 may execute the billing process so that the electronic cash is reduced by a predetermined amount when a predetermined date and time arrives. For example, for a user who pays a predetermined amount monthly for a subscription service, the billing process may be executed on a monthly basis in this manner. For example, the use gift giving unit 103 may not be implemented, so that even if the first user uses the first store, the store does not give the first user electronic cash as a gift. For example, after the first store's promotion ends or before the first store's promotion begins, the first user will not be given the first store's store electronic cash.

[Checkout Processing Execution Unit] The checkout processing execution unit 102 executes checkout processing when the usage conditions specified for the first user's electronic cash are met. Usage conditions are conditions that permit the use of electronic cash. For the store-based electronic cash described in the first embodiment, the usage conditions specify the stores where the electronic cash can be used. Usage conditions can be arbitrary and are not limited to stores. For example, usage conditions may include time zones, days of the week, periods, regions, products, services, users, or a combination of these.

Whether the usage conditions stipulated for electronic cash are met is determined by the usage restriction unit 104. The checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout process so that electronic cash that meets the usage conditions can be used. In other words, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout process so that electronic cash that does not meet the usage conditions cannot be used. In the second embodiment, the stores that can use electronic cash are described as equivalent to the usage conditions. Therefore, the processing of the checkout processing execution unit 102 can be the same as that of the first embodiment.

[Usage Restriction Unit] The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash that does not meet the usage conditions. In the second embodiment, the establishments where electronic cash can be used are considered the usage conditions. Therefore, the processing of the usage restriction unit 104 is the same as in the first embodiment. If other conditions are specified as usage conditions, the usage restriction unit 104 can simply determine whether to permit the use of electronic cash based on the other conditions. Furthermore, the usage restriction unit 104 can be implemented by a system external to the checkout system S. In this case, the checkout system S can omit the usage restriction unit 104.

For example, if a time period during which electronic cash can be used is specified as a usage condition, the usage restriction unit 104 determines whether the current time is a time period during which electronic cash can be used. If the current time is a time period during which electronic cash can be used, the usage restriction unit 104 may determine whether the current Sunday is a day during which electronic cash can be used. If the current Sunday is a day during which electronic cash can be used, the usage restriction unit 104 may determine whether the current Sunday is a day during which electronic cash can be used.

For example, if the period during which electronic cash can be used is specified as a usage condition, the usage restriction unit 104 determines whether the current date and time is within the period during which electronic cash can be used. If the current date and time is within the period during which electronic cash can be used, the usage restriction unit 104 permits the use of electronic cash. For example, if the area in which electronic cash can be used is specified as a usage condition, the usage restriction unit 104 determines whether the store at which the checkout request was made is located in the specified area. If the store is located in the specified area, the use of electronic cash can be permitted. Similarly, if other conditions are specified as usage conditions, the usage restriction unit 104 determines whether the specified usage conditions for electronic cash are met. If the usage conditions are met, the use of electronic cash can be permitted.

[Transfer Request Accepting Unit] The transfer request accepting unit 105 accepts transfer requests for transferring electronic cash from a first user to a second user. A transfer request is a notification requesting the execution of a transfer process (described below). A transfer request is executed by sending data in a predetermined format. In this embodiment, once the user terminal 20 selects the second user on the selection screen G3 and enters the amount and message on the input screen G4, the transfer request containing the first user's user identification information, the second user's user identification information, the amount, and the message is sent to the server 10. The transfer request accepting unit 105 accepts the transfer request by receiving the transfer request from the user terminal 20.

In addition, the transfer request may contain arbitrary information. The information contained in the transfer request is not limited to the example of the second embodiment. For example, the transfer request may also include the electronic cash ID of the electronic cash selected by the first user. In this case, the electronic cash ID can be used to identify which electronic cash is the target. In addition, the user identification information of the second user contained in the transfer request may be arbitrary information such as a user ID, an email address, or a telephone number. The transfer request only needs to contain arbitrary information that can identify the first user and the second user. In addition, the transfer request may also contain information that can identify whether general electronic cash is sent, whether electronic cash for use in stores that have stipulated usage conditions is sent, etc.

[Remittance Processing Execution Department] The remittance processing execution department 106 executes remittance processing when a remittance request is accepted. For example, once a remittance request is accepted, the remittance processing execution department 106 references the user database DB and retrieves the electronic cash information associated with the user identification information of the first user included in the remittance request and the electronic cash information associated with the user identification information of the second user included in the remittance request. The remittance processing execution department 106 executes remittance processing based on this electronic cash information. The transfer processing execution unit 106 updates the usage history information of the first user and the usage history information of the second user based on the results of the transfer processing. The transfer processing execution unit 106 transmits the results of the transfer processing to the user terminal 20. The transfer processing itself can utilize various well-known methods.

For example, the transfer processing execution unit 106 updates the first user's electronic cash information based on the transfer request so that the first user's electronic cash balance decreases, and updates the second user's electronic cash information so that the second user's electronic cash balance increases, thereby executing the transfer process. The amount of electronic cash decreased by the first user may be the same as the amount included in the transfer request, or may be an amount after adding a predetermined handling fee. The amount of electronic cash increased by the second user may be the same as the amount included in the transfer request, or may be an amount after subtracting a predetermined handling fee.

[Remittance Gift Granting Unit] Remittance Gift Granting Unit 107 grants a gift to the first user when a remittance process is executed. In contrast to the Utilization Gift Granting Unit 103 described in the first embodiment, which grants a gift when a checkout process is executed, Remittance Gift Granting Unit 107 grants a gift when electronic cash is transferred from the first user to the second user. While the second embodiment describes the gift-giving unit 107 as giving the first user electronic cash as a gift, the gift given to the first user may be other gifts, not limited to electronic cash. For example, the gift-giving unit 107 may also give the first user other payment methods such as electronic currency, points, or coupons. Furthermore, the gift-giving unit 107 may also give the first user information such as promotional event notifications or gifts that the first user can receive.

For example, the gift-giving unit 107 may also give the first user a gift corresponding to the electronic cash usage conditions. The gift-giving unit 107 gives the first user a gift associated with the electronic cash usage conditions. Assume that the relationship between the electronic cash usage conditions and the gift when the electronic cash with the conditions is transferred is pre-stored in the data storage unit 100. The gift-giving unit 107 gives the first user a gift associated with the electronic cash usage conditions that the first user has transferred to the second user.

For example, as in the second embodiment, if a store is specified as a usage condition, the store's electronic cash is determined as a gift. When a first user has transferred a store's electronic cash to a second user, the gift-giving unit 107 gives the store's electronic cash to the first user as a gift. In this case, the gift-giving unit 107 can also give the first user store's electronic cash as a gift to another store, or to electronic cash that has other usage conditions.

For example, if a time zone is specified as a usage condition, the electronic cash for that time zone, i.e., the time zone electronic cash, is determined as a gift. If the first user has already transferred time zone electronic cash for a certain time zone to the second user, the gift giving unit 107 gives the first user electronic cash for the store in that time zone as a gift. In this case, the gift giving unit 107 can also give the first user electronic cash for a different time zone as a gift, or can also give electronic cash for a store with other usage conditions.

For example, if a region is specified as a usage condition, electronic cash for that region, i.e., regional electronic cash, is determined as a gift. When a first user has transferred regional electronic cash for a certain region to a second user, the gift-giving unit 107 gives the first user electronic cash for a store in that region as a gift. In this case, the gift-giving unit 107 can also give regional electronic cash for another region as a gift to the first user, or can also give electronic cash for a store with other usage conditions.

Furthermore, the gift giving unit 107 may give the first user a gift that is unrelated to the terms of use of the electronic cash that the first user has already transferred to the second user. The gift giving unit 107 may also give the first user a gift that is randomly selected from a plurality of gifts. The gift giving unit 107 may also give the first user a gift designated by the first user. The gift giving unit 107 may also determine the gift amount based on the amount of electronic cash that the first user transferred to the second user, or may give the first user a gift amount that is unrelated to the amount.

Furthermore, if the first user transfers general-purpose electronic cash to the second user, the gift-giving unit 107 can also give the first user store-use electronic cash as a gift. The store can be randomly determined or can be a store that the first user regularly uses and has been identified based on the first user's usage history. Alternatively, for example, the store can be one that the first user has registered as a favorite store. Conversely, if the first user transfers store-use electronic cash to the second user, the gift-giving unit 107 can also give the first user general-purpose electronic cash as a gift.

Furthermore, the functions of the user terminal 20 and the store terminal 30 are the same as those of the first embodiment, but the user terminal 20 includes a transfer request signaling unit 202. The transfer request signaling unit 202 is primarily implemented by the control unit 21. The transfer request signaling unit 202 sends a transfer request to the server 10 based on an operation by the first user. For example, the transfer request signaling unit 202 sends a transfer request to the server 10 when the first user selects the second user on the selection screen G3 and enters the amount and message on the input screen G4.

[2-3. Processing Executed in the Second Embodiment] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed in the second embodiment. The processing shown in Figure 9 is executed by control units 11 and 21 operating according to programs stored in memory units 12 and 22. The processing in S200 and S201 is the same as that in S100 and S101. This section describes the processing that occurs when button B12 on the main screen G1 is selected.

When the first user selects button B13 or button B14, the user terminal 20 displays a selection screen G3 on the display unit 25 and accepts the second user's selection (S202). The user terminal 20 displays an input screen G4 on the display unit 25 and accepts the input of an amount and a message (S203). If button B40 is selected, the user terminal 20 sends a transfer request containing the first user's user identification information, the second user's user identification information, the electronic cash identification information of the electronic cash to be transferred, the amount, and a message to the server 10 (S204).

Upon receiving a transfer request from the user terminal 20 (S205), the server 10 determines the type of electronic cash indicated in the transfer request (S206). If the transfer request indicates store-use electronic cash (S206; store-use electronic cash), the server 10 executes a transfer process to transfer the first user's store-use electronic cash (S207). The server 10 then grants the first user store-use electronic cash (S208), and this process ends. If the transfer request indicates the use of general electronic cash (S206; general electronic cash), the server 10 executes the settlement process (S209) so that the general electronic cash will be transferred, and this process ends. In this case, although it is designed that no gift is given to the second user, some kind of gift may be given to the second user.

According to the checkout system S of the second embodiment, when a store electronic cash transfer request is accepted and the transfer process is completed, a gift is given to the first user. This provides the first user with an incentive to transfer store electronic cash to the second user. For example, instead of simply holding store electronic cash that has not been scheduled for use recently, the first user can transfer it to the second user, allowing the second user to use the store electronic cash. As a result, the use of store electronic cash in the checkout service can be promoted. From the perspective of stores that accept store-use electronic cash, even if the first user doesn't use store-use electronic cash, the second user is likely to do so, thereby increasing the store's customer acquisition effect. The first user, hoping to receive a gift, will try to send store-use electronic cash to the second user, thus promoting the transfer of store-use electronic cash from the first user to the second user.

Furthermore, the checkout system S grants the first user a gift corresponding to the conditions for using the electronic cash. This allows the first user to be given a gift tied to the conditions for using the electronic cash that the first user transfers to the second user, thereby providing the first user with a strong incentive to transfer store electronic cash to the second user. For example, if the first user has already transferred store electronic cash from a certain store to the second user, granting the store electronic cash to the first user prevents the first user's store electronic cash from being completely depleted, thereby providing the first user with a strong incentive to transfer store electronic cash to the second user. The first user uses the electronic cash given to the store as a gift, which makes them more likely to visit the store again, thus increasing the store's customer attraction effect.

Furthermore, the checkout system S can also give the first user electronic cash with the same usage conditions as the electronic cash that the first user has already transferred to the second user as a gift. This allows the first user to be given electronic cash with the same usage conditions as the electronic cash that the first user transferred to the second user, thereby providing the first user with a strong incentive to transfer store-used electronic cash to the second user. For example, if the first user has already transferred store cash from a certain store to the second user, giving the store cash to the first user prevents the first user's store cash from being completely depleted, thereby giving the first user a strong incentive to transfer store cash to the second user. The first user is more likely to visit the store again to use the store cash they received as a gift, thereby increasing the store's customer acquisition effect.

Furthermore, the checkout system S gives the first user the store electronic cash as a gift, thereby giving the first user a stronger incentive to transfer the store electronic cash to the second user.

[3. Third Embodiment] For simplicity, the first and second embodiments primarily describe the use or transfer of electronic cash at a single store. The third embodiment explains the situation where multiple electronic cash with specified usage conditions exist. The meaning of the usage conditions is the same as that explained in the second embodiment. Similarly to the second embodiment, the third embodiment describes a store as an example of a usage condition. In the third embodiment, any points that are identical to those in the first or second embodiment will be omitted.

[3-1. Overview of the Third Implementation] Figure 10 illustrates an example screen of the checkout application in the third implementation. As shown in the main screen G1A and the checkout completion screen G2E of Figure 10, when a first user visits store A of "XXX Convenience Store," they are granted a store-use electronic cash that can be used at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and a store-group electronic cash that can be used at all stores of "XXX Convenience Store." This store-use electronic cash is only usable at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and cannot be used at other stores within "XXX Convenience Store" or at stores outside of "XXX Convenience Store." The store-group electronic cash can be used at any store named "XXX Convenience Store." For example, if a store group uses electronic cash, it can also be used at store B of "XXX convenience store."

Once the store electronic cash and store group electronic cash are assigned to the first user, the balance of the general electronic cash, the store electronic cash, and the store group electronic cash will be displayed as shown on the main screen G1B. If the first user visits store A of "XXX Convenience Store" again and has code C10 read by the reading device 36, both the store electronic cash and the store group electronic cash can be used, and the checkout process will be executed based on the pre-determined priority.

In the third embodiment, the store-use electronic cash at "XXX Convenience Store" store A is prioritized over the store-group electronic cash. In other words, the store-use electronic cash, which can only be used at "XXX Convenience Store" store A, is prioritized over the store-group electronic cash, which can be used at all "XXX" convenience stores. As shown on the checkout completion screen G2F, the store-use electronic cash is prioritized over the store-group electronic cash.

For example, suppose a user holds 100 yen worth of electronic cash for store A at "XXX Convenience Store" and 50 yen worth of store group electronic cash that can be used at all "XXX Convenience Store" stores. If the user makes a purchase of 120 yen at "XXX Convenience Store" store A, the electronic cash for store will be prioritized. The store group electronic cash will be used to cover the remaining 20 yen of the electronic cash for store. Thus, in the third embodiment, by assigning priority to each of the multiple electronic cash items held by the user, convenience for the user is improved. The details of the third embodiment are described below.

[3-2. Functions Implemented in the Third Embodiment] Figure 11 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functions implemented in the third embodiment. The functions of the user terminal 20 and the store terminal 30 are the same as those in the first embodiment; therefore, the functional differences of the server 10 are described here. The checkout request accepting unit 101, the checkout processing execution unit 102, the usage restriction unit 104, and the identification unit 108 are primarily implemented by the control unit 11. In the third embodiment, the usage gift granting unit 103 described in the first embodiment may not be implemented, and the transfer request accepting unit 105, the transfer processing execution unit 106, and the transfer gift granting unit 107 described in the second embodiment may not be implemented.

[Payment Request Accepting Unit] Payment Request Accepting Unit 101 accepts payment requests from a first user who holds multiple electronic cash with mutually exclusive usage conditions. The payment request itself is as described in the first and second embodiments. In the third embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the example is given where the usage condition is the store where the electronic cash is accepted. Furthermore, for simplicity, the example uses two electronic cashes: one for store A, which can be used only at "XXX Convenience Store," and one for a group of stores, which can be used at all "XXX Convenience Store" stores. However, the first user may also hold three or more electronic cash with mutually exclusive usage conditions.

For example, in addition to the two electronic cash items mentioned above, user 1 may also possess a store-use electronic cash item that can only be used at store B within "XXX Convenience Store," or a store-use electronic cash item that can only be used at each store within "XXX Convenience Store." Furthermore, user 1 may also possess a mix of electronic cash items with specified usage conditions, such as a store-use electronic cash item for other store groups, a time-zone electronic cash item that can only be used during a certain time period, a weekday electronic cash item that can only be used on certain days of the week, and a zone electronic cash item that can only be used within a certain zone. The balance of electronic cash displayed on the main screen G1 may also display the total value of general electronic cash and multiple electronic cashes with specified usage conditions.

[Checkout Processing Execution Unit] The checkout processing execution unit 102 executes checkout processing based on the priority of each of the multiple electronic cash items, after the identification unit 108 (described later) identifies the multiple electronic cash items. In the third embodiment, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes checkout processing based on the priority of each of the multiple electronic cash items, determined such that the fewer available stores, the higher the priority.

For example, a store-use electronic cash that can only be used at store A within "XXX Convenience Store" is available in fewer stores than a store-group electronic cash that can be used at all stores within "XXX Convenience Store." Therefore, the store-use electronic cash has a higher priority than the store-group electronic cash. In other words, the less versatile a conditional electronic cash is, the higher its priority. The more restrictive a conditional electronic cash is, the higher its priority. A store-use electronic cash that can only be used at a specific store has a lower versatility and more restrictive usage than a store-group electronic cash, and therefore has a higher priority. The checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout processing in such a manner that electronic cash with a relatively higher priority is used before electronic cash with a relatively lower priority.

For example, the checkout execution unit 102 may execute the checkout process so that electronic cash with a relatively higher priority is utilized and electronic cash with a relatively lower priority is not utilized. For example, the checkout execution unit 102 may also execute the checkout process so that the higher the priority, the greater the usage amount. In the example shown in FIG10 , since the priority of the store electronic cash is higher than the priority of the store group electronic cash, the checkout execution unit 102 sets the usage amount of the store electronic cash to be greater than the usage amount of the store group electronic cash.

Furthermore, the priority setting method may be arbitrary and is not limited to the example of the third embodiment. Contrary to the third embodiment, the greater the number of available stores, the higher the priority. Alternatively, for example, an electronic cash whose availability is limited to a specific time period may be given a higher priority than an electronic cash whose availability is limited to other conditions. Alternatively, for example, an electronic cash whose availability is limited to a specific store may be given a higher priority than an electronic cash whose availability is limited to a specific time period or region. Alternatively, for example, a larger balance in an electronic cash may be given a higher priority.

[Usage Restriction Unit] Usage restriction unit 104 is the same as in the second embodiment. Furthermore, usage restriction unit 104 can also be implemented by a system external to checkout system S. In this case, checkout system S can omit usage restriction unit 104.

[Specifying Unit] Specifying unit 108 specifies electronic cash that meets the usage conditions from among a plurality of electronic cash products when a payment request is accepted. The method for determining each usage condition is as described in the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, since the stores where electronic cash can be used are equivalent to the usage conditions, specifying unit 108 specifies electronic cash that can be used at the store corresponding to the payment request as the electronic cash that meets the usage conditions from among a plurality of electronic cash products when a payment request is accepted. Specifying unit 108 can also specify electronic cash that meets the usage conditions by obtaining the determination result of usage restriction unit 104. The identification unit 108 can also identify electronic cash that meets the usage conditions by performing the same processing as the usage restriction unit 104.

For example, assume that a first user holds two electronic cash items: an electronic cash item usable only at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and an electronic cash item for a store group that can be used at all stores of "XXX Convenience Store." If the first user visits store A of "XXX Convenience Store," the identification unit 108 can identify the checkout request as coming from store A of "XXX Convenience Store" using the store ID included in the checkout request. Therefore, both electronic cash items can be identified as usable at store A of "XXX Convenience Store." If the first user visits another store of "XXX Convenience Store", the identification unit 108 can identify the checkout request as coming from store B of "XXX Convenience Store" based on the store ID included in the checkout request, thereby identifying that electronic cash can only be used in the store group that can be used in all stores of "XXX Convenience Store".

[3-3. Processing Performed in the Third Implementation] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed in the third implementation. The processing in Figure 12 differs from that in Figure 6 in some respects. For example, the processing from S300 to S303 is identical to the processing from S100 to S103. The server 10 identifies electronic cash that meets the usage conditions among the electronic cash held by the first user (S304). In S304, the server 10 references the user database DB and retrieves the electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the payment request. Based on the electronic cash information, the server 10 identifies the electronic cash held by the first user and, within the electronic cash, identifies the electronic cash that can be used at the store indicated by the store ID included in the checkout request.

If a plurality of electronic cash items meeting the usage conditions are identified (S304; plural), the server 10 performs checkout processing (S305) based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash items. For example, if a first user holds an electronic cash item for store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and an electronic cash item for store group use of "XXX Convenience Store" and receives a checkout request from the store terminal 30 of store A of "XXX Convenience Store", the server 10 identifies these two electronic cash items in S304. In S305, the server 10 considers the store's electronic cash priority as the first priority and the store group's electronic cash priority as the second priority to execute the checkout process.

If only one electronic cash that meets the usage requirements has been identified (S304: 1), the server 10 performs a checkout process (S306) based on the identified electronic cash. The checkout process in S306 is the same as the checkout process in the first embodiment. If no electronic cash that meets the usage requirements has been identified (S304: None), the server 10 performs a checkout process (S307) based on a universal electronic cash. The subsequent processes S308-S310 are the same as the processes S107-S109 described in the first embodiment.

According to the checkout system S of the third embodiment, if multiple electronic cash items are identified as meeting the usage conditions, checkout processing is performed based on the priority of each of the multiple electronic cash items. This prevents electronic cash from being used in a manner not intended by the user, thereby improving user convenience. By increasing the priority of the electronic cash item that the user desires to use, the electronic cash item can be used first.

Furthermore, the checkout system S identifies, from among a plurality of electronic cashes, electronic cash that can be used at the store corresponding to the checkout request as electronic cash that meets the usage conditions. This allows the user to use the electronic cash in the desired manner by prioritizing the electronic cash even if there are multiple electronic cashes that can be used at the store where the user wishes to use the checkout service, thereby further improving user convenience.

Furthermore, if multiple electronic cash items are specified as meeting the usage requirements, the checkout system S performs checkout processing based on the priority of each of the multiple electronic cash items, with the priority being higher the fewer stores where the electronic cash items can be used. This allows, for example, a configuration in which electronic cash that can only be used in a specific store is prioritized, while general-purpose electronic cash that can be used in multiple stores is stored, thereby further improving user convenience.

[4. Modifications] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[4-1. Modifications Related to the First Embodiment] Figure 13 illustrates an example of functional blocks for a modification related to the first embodiment. The restriction unit 109, profit generation unit 110, change processing execution unit 111, first fee generation unit 112, first withdrawal processing execution unit 113, second withdrawal processing execution unit 114, second fee generation unit 115, first detection unit 116, and second detection unit 117 are implemented primarily within the control unit 11.

[Variant 1-1] For example, store-based electronic cash can be used during the first time period associated with the first store. In Variant 1-1, not only the stores where store-based electronic cash can be used, but also the time period during which it can be used are specified as usage conditions.

The first time slot is a pre-designated time slot. Modification 1-1 describes a case where the first time slot is a relatively quiet time slot. The phrase "the first store is relatively quiet" means that at least one of the number of users and the usage quota is relatively low. The first time slot can be any time slot as long as there is at least one other time slot that is more crowded than the first time slot. The first time slot is sometimes also referred to as idle time. The first time slot can be counted by the store's organizer or based on usage history information. For example, the server 10 calculates at least one of the number of users and the total amount of usage of the first store for each time period based on the usage time, usage location, and usage amount included in the usage history information.

Furthermore, time slots can be arbitrarily segmented, for example, every three hours or every six hours. They can also vary in length for each time slot. For example, nighttime segments can be more coarsely segmented, while daytime segments can be more finely segmented. While Variation 1-1 describes the time slot with the lowest number of users and the lowest total amount as the first time slot, a predetermined number of time slots with increasing numbers of users and total amounts can also be considered the first time slot. Furthermore, the first time slot can be any time slot associated with the first store, and is not limited to relatively idle time slots. For example, the first time zone may be a time zone designated as a time zone for implementing promotional activities, a time zone when the first store is relatively busy, a time zone when there are relatively more employees in the first store, a time zone when specific operations such as moving in or displaying operations do not occur in the first store, or a time zone when specific operations have just been completed.

The usage gift granting unit 103 grants the first user electronic cash as a gift at a store whose first time period is set as one of the usage conditions. For example, if a "XXX convenience store" located in a commercial office district is relatively busy from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, which is not often used by office workers, the first time period would be from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The usage gift granting unit 103 grants the first user electronic cash that can only be used at the "XXX convenience store" and only between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for store use in the second store and the use of electronic cash for store use in the first store during the second time period. The second time period is a time period during which electronic cash for store use in the first store cannot be used. The second time period is a time period different from the first time period. The method for preventing the use of electronic cash for store use in the second store is as described in the first embodiment. The usage restriction unit 104 determines whether the current time is the second time period. If the current time is the second time period, the usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for store use. The use restriction unit 104 permits the store to use electronic cash if the current time is within the first time zone.

According to Modification 1-1, store electronic cash is restricted to use during the first time period associated with the first store, but cannot be used at the second store, and cannot be used at the first store during the second time period. This improves the customer acquisition effectiveness of the first time period, which is designated as a time period intended to increase customer acquisition for the first store. For example, by designating a time period when the first store is relatively unpopular as the first time period, customer acquisition effectiveness can be improved during relatively unpopular time periods for the first store.

[Variation 1-2] For example, a store electronic cash system can be used at a first store and a third store located in the first zone that includes the first store. The first zone is the area that includes the first store. The first zone can be a prefecture, city, town, or village, or it can be a zone defined by the checkout service. The third store can be a chain store in the same store group as the first store, or it can be another store that collaborates with the first store. However, in Variation 1-2, as long as the third store is in the same zone as the first store, its relationship with the first store is irrelevant.

The third store is another store in the same first zone as the first store. The third store is a store that the user has not visited when the store electronic cash is issued. The store electronic cash of Modification 1-2 is specified as being in the first zone as a condition for use. It is assumed that the stores in the first zone are predefined in data storage unit 100. That is, it is assumed that the first and third stores where the store electronic cash can be used are predefined in data storage unit 100.

The gift giving unit 103 gives the first user electronic cash for a store whose first zone is set as one of the usage conditions as a gift. This store electronic cash is electronic cash for the first zone and can therefore also be referred to as area-specific electronic cash. For example, if the area unit is a city, town, or village, then if the first user visits "XXX Convenience Store" in Banqiao Ward, Tokyo, the gift giving unit 103 will give the first user electronic cash for use at the first store, "XXX Convenience Store," and a third store also located in Banqiao Ward.

The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for store use in the second store located in the second zone. The second zone is an area where electronic cash for store use in the first zone cannot be used. The second zone is an area other than the first zone. When a checkout request has been accepted, the usage restriction unit 104 determines whether the area to which the store that sent the checkout request belongs is the second zone. If the usage restriction unit 104 determines that it is the second zone, the usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for store use. If it is not determined to be the second zone, that is, if it is determined to be the first zone, the usage restriction unit 104 permits the use of electronic cash for store use.

According to Modification 1-2, store electronic cash can be used at the first store and the third store in the first zone that includes the first store, but cannot be used at the second store in the second zone. This provides the first user with an incentive to return to the first zone. For example, in a promotional event aimed at revitalizing a particular municipality, electronic cash limited to that municipality can be issued.

[Variant 1-3] For example, the functions described in the first and second embodiments can be combined to allow the first user to transfer store electronic cash given as a gift for using the first store to the second user. The checkout system S of Variation 1-3 includes the transfer request accepting unit 105 and transfer processing execution unit 106 described in the second embodiment. The request accepting unit 105 and transfer processing execution unit 106 are similar to those described in the second embodiment. Variation 1-3 describes a case where the checkout system S does not include the transfer gift giving unit 107.

The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the second user from using the store electronic cash at the second store. This restriction differs from the first embodiment in that only the store electronic cash held by the second user is subject to the restriction. The restriction method implemented by the usage restriction unit 104 itself is the same as that described in the first embodiment.

According to Modification 1-3, if a transfer request for transferring store-use electronic cash from a first user to a second user has been accepted, the transfer process is executed, and restrictions are imposed such that the second user cannot use the store-use electronic cash at the second store. Even if the first user has not reserved the use of store-use electronic cash, transferring the store-use electronic cash from the first user to the second user allows the second user to use the store-use electronic cash, thereby effectively utilizing store-use electronic cash.

[Variation 1-4] For example, while Variation 1-3 describes a case where the checkout system S does not include the gift-giving unit 107, the first and second embodiments can be combined to include the gift-giving unit 107. The gift-giving unit 107 is similar to that described in the second embodiment.

According to Modification 1-4, if the transfer process is executed, the store electronic cash is given as a gift to the first user. This provides the first user with an incentive to transfer the store electronic cash to the second user.

[Variation 1-5] For example, the checkout system S may also include a disbursement restriction unit 109. Disbursement restriction unit 109 restricts the disbursement of store electronic cash by the gift disbursement unit 107, which could result from repeated transfers of store electronic cash between the first and second users.

For example, after a store electronic cash transfer has been made from the first user to the second user, the gift transfer restriction unit 109 restricts the gift transfer unit 107 from granting the second user a gift, even if the second user transfers store electronic cash to the first user. Even if the second user transfers store electronic cash to the first user after using all of the store electronic cash received from the first user (using store electronic cash exceeding the amount received), the gift can still be granted to the second user. In addition, for example, if the second user transfers electronic cash to the first user from a store that exceeds the amount received from the first user, the second user can be given a gift for the amount exceeding the amount.

For example, the grant restriction unit 109 may restrict the granting of a gift to the first user if, after the first user transfers electronic cash for store use to the second user, the second user transfers electronic cash for store use to the first user and then transfers electronic cash for store use to the second user. In this case, if the first user transfers electronic cash for store use that exceeds the amount received from the second user, the first user may be granted a gift for the excess amount.

Furthermore, the restriction method implemented by the grant restriction unit 109 is not limited to the above example. For example, the grant restriction unit 109 may restrict the granting of gifts to at least one of the first and second users for a certain period of time after the first user transfers store electronic cash to the second user, even if store electronic cash is transferred between the first and second users. Furthermore, for example, the grant restriction unit 109 may restrict the granting of gifts to at least one of the first and second users until the second user has completely used up the store electronic cash after the first user transfers store electronic cash to the second user, even if store electronic cash is transferred between the first and second users.

According to Variation 1-5, restrictions are imposed to prevent the first and second users from repeatedly sending store electronic cash to each other, resulting in the store electronic cash being repeatedly given as a gift. This prevents the first and second users from receiving gifts indefinitely by sending each other without using store electronic cash.

[Variant 1-6] For example, in the second embodiment, Variant 1-3, and Variant 1-4, a first user transfers their own store-use electronic cash to a second user. Alternatively, the first user can first convert their own standard electronic cash into store-use electronic cash before transferring it to the second user. The checkout system S of Variant 1-6, like Variant 1-3 and Variant 1-4, includes a usage restriction unit 104, a transfer request reception unit 105, and a transfer processing execution unit 106. The usage restriction unit 104 and the transfer request accepting unit 105 are the same as those in Modifications 1-3 and 1-4, but the usage restriction unit 104 and the transfer processing execution unit 106 are different from those in Modifications 1-3 and 1-4.

In Modification 1-6, the transfer processing execution unit 106 executes a transfer process, if a transfer request has been accepted, by utilizing a universal payment method, namely, universal electronic cash, to transfer the store-use electronic cash to the second user. For example, the transfer processing execution unit 106 first converts the universal electronic cash held by the first user into store-use electronic cash, and then executes the transfer process. Converting the universal electronic cash into store-use electronic cash means reducing the balance of the universal electronic cash and increasing the balance of the store-use electronic cash. Although the amount of decrease in the balance of the first user's general-purpose electronic cash and the amount of increase in the second user's store electronic cash are described as being the same in Modification 1-6, they may be different as shown in Modification 1-7 described later.

According to Modification 1-6, the transfer process is performed by transferring store electronic cash to the second user using general-purpose electronic cash. This allows the first user to transfer store electronic cash using general-purpose electronic cash even if they have insufficient store electronic cash, thereby improving user convenience.

[Variant 1-7] For example, the checkout system S may also include a profit generating unit 110. Profit generating unit 110 generates a profit for at least one of the first and second users when a remittance process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, which would not be generated if a remittance process using store-use electronic cash was executed. The remittance process using general-purpose electronic cash is the remittance process described in Variant 1-6. The remittance process using store-use electronic cash is the remittance process described in the second embodiment, Variant 1-3, and Variant 1-4.

For example, if a transfer process using general electronic cash is executed, the profit generating unit 110 may give the first user a larger gift than if a transfer process using in-store electronic cash is executed. For example, if a transfer process using in-store electronic cash is executed and a gift of 10% of the transferred amount is given to the first user, then a gift of 15% of the transferred amount may be given to the first user if a transfer process using general electronic cash is executed.

For example, when a transfer process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the profit generating unit 110 reduces the amount of general-purpose electronic cash required to transfer the same amount of money compared to when a transfer process using store-use electronic cash is executed. For example, suppose a first user transfers 1,000 yen of store-use electronic cash to a second user. If the first user were to use their existing store-use electronic cash, they would need 1,000 yen of store-use electronic cash. In contrast, if the first user were to use their existing store-use electronic cash, they would only need 800 yen of general-purpose electronic cash.

For example, when a transfer process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the profit generating unit 110 increases the amount received when the same amount is transferred compared to when a transfer process using store-use electronic cash is executed. For example, if a first user transfers 1,000 yen of store-use electronic cash to a second user, the second user receives 1,000 yen of store-use electronic cash. Conversely, if the first user transfers 1,000 yen of general-purpose electronic cash to the second user, the second user receives 1,200 yen of store-use electronic cash.

According to Modification 1-7, when a transfer process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, a benefit is generated for at least one of the first and second users that would not be generated if a transfer process using store-use electronic cash was executed. This provides the first user with a stronger incentive to transfer store-use electronic cash to the second user using general-purpose electronic cash.

[Variation 1-8] For example, as described in the first embodiment, the checkout request may be a request for using store-use electronic cash at the first store. In this case, the gift giving unit 103 may grant store-use electronic cash to the first user after the checkout process has been completed and the store-use electronic cash has been used at the first store. In other words, the gift giving unit 103 may grant store-use electronic cash to the first user not only when general-purpose electronic cash has been used, but also when the store-use electronic cash has been used.

According to Modification 1-8, after the checkout process has been completed and the store electronic cash has been used at the first store, the first user is given the store electronic cash. This can provide the first user with a stronger incentive to visit the store again.

[Variation 1-9] For example, electronic cash can also be used at the second store. The second store is a franchise store that provides checkout services and can at least accept general electronic cash. In this case, if electronic cash is used at the first store using the gift granting unit 103, electronic cash for the first store is granted to the first user, i.e., first-store electronic cash. The first-store electronic cash is the same as the store electronic cash described in the first embodiment. The processing required to grant the first-store electronic cash is the same as that described in the first embodiment.

If electronic cash is used at a second store using the gift granting unit 103, electronic cash for the second store, i.e., electronic cash for the second store, is granted to the first user. Electronic cash for the second store is electronic cash that cannot be used at the first store. For example, suppose the first store is Store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and the second store is Store B of "XXX Convenience Store." Electronic cash used at Store A of "XXX Convenience Store" cannot be used at Store B of "XXX Convenience Store." Electronic cash used at Store B of "XXX Convenience Store" cannot be used at Store A of "XXX Convenience Store." Second-store electronic cash differs from first-store electronic cash in that it can be used in different stores. However, the method of granting second-store electronic cash to the second user is the same as the method of granting first-store electronic cash to the first user.

The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for the first store at the second store and restricts the use of electronic cash for the second store at the first store. Electronic cash for the second store differs from electronic cash for the first store in that it can be used at the second store but not at the first store. However, the method for restricting the use of electronic cash for the second store at the first store is the same as the method for restricting the use of electronic cash for the first store at the second store.

According to Modification 1-9, if electronic cash is used at the first store, the first user is given electronic cash for the first store, i.e., electronic cash for the first store. If electronic cash is used at the second store, the first user is given electronic cash for the second store, i.e., electronic cash for the second store. This provides the first user with both an incentive to revisit the first store and an incentive to revisit the second store. In other words, the first user can be given an incentive to revisit each store.

[Variation 1-10] For example, in Variation 1-9, store 1 and store 2 may belong to the same store group. Using gift granting unit 103, if electronic cash is used at store 1 or store 2, store group electronic cash with a store group balance may be granted to the first user. Store group electronic cash is as described in the third embodiment. While the third embodiment describes the case where electronic cash is granted to each store, in Variation 1-10, electronic cash for each store may not be granted.

Store group electronic cash can also be used at Store 1 and Store 2. If there are other stores belonging to the same store group, Store group electronic cash can also be used at those other stores. The checkout process for using Store group electronic cash is the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 1-10, if electronic cash is used at the first store or the second store, the first user is given electronic cash for the store group, i.e., electronic cash for the store group. The electronic cash for the store group can be used at both the first store and the second store. This improves user convenience.

[Variation 1-11] For example, the first and third embodiments may be combined. In this case, the store electronic cash described in the first embodiment is one of the multiple electronic cash described in the third embodiment. The checkout system S includes a specific unit 108. The processing performed by the specific unit 108 and the checkout execution unit 102 in Variation 1-11 is the same as in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 1-11, when a plurality of electronic cashes that meet the usage conditions are identified from a plurality of electronic cashes, the payment process is performed based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cashes. This improves user convenience, similar to the third embodiment.

[Variation 1-12] For example, store electronic cash can be converted into general-purpose electronic cash. Conversely, general-purpose electronic cash can be converted into store electronic cash. The checkout system S includes a change processing execution unit 111 and a first handling fee generation unit 112. The change processing execution unit 111 executes the change processing required to convert store electronic cash into general-purpose electronic cash, or general-purpose electronic cash. The change processing reduces the balance of store electronic cash and increases the balance of general-purpose electronic cash. The change processing itself can utilize a known process. For example, the amount of a decrease in the store's electronic cash balance and the amount of an increase in the general electronic cash balance may be the same or different.

The first handling fee generating unit 112 generates a predetermined handling fee when the change process is executed. The handling fee may be a fixed value regardless of the amount changed by the change process, or a value corresponding to the amount changed by the change process. For example, the first handling fee generating unit 112 may generate the handling fee in such a way that the greater the amount of store electronic cash converted into general-purpose electronic cash, the greater the handling fee. The handling fee may be deducted from general-purpose electronic cash or store electronic cash, or from other payment methods such as electronic currency or points. The handling fee may also be charged using other payment methods such as credit cards.

According to Modification 1-12, when the conversion process required to convert store electronic cash to general-purpose electronic cash is completed, a predetermined fee is incurred. This improves convenience for first users who do not have a pre-registered store electronic cash. Furthermore, the incurrence of a predetermined fee for the checkout service can improve profitability.

[Variation 1-13] For example, general-purpose electronic cash and store-use electronic cash may also be used for withdrawals. Withdrawals can be made using known methods, such as transferring a predetermined amount to a user's bank account. The checkout system S includes a first withdrawal processing unit 113, a second withdrawal processing unit 114, and a second fee generation unit 115.

The first withdrawal processing execution unit 113 executes the first withdrawal processing required to withdraw universal electronic cash, i.e., universal electronic cash. For example, the first withdrawal processing execution unit 113 executes the first withdrawal processing in such a manner that the universal electronic cash is withdrawn up to the amount specified by the user. The first withdrawal processing execution unit 113 executes the first withdrawal processing in such a manner that the remaining balance of the universal electronic cash is reduced to the amount specified by the user, and the amount specified by the user is withdrawn. The first withdrawal processing execution unit 113 may also execute the first withdrawal processing in such a manner that the balance of the general electronic cash is reduced to the amount specified by the user and the withdrawal is made to the amount specified by the user minus the handling fee.

The second withdrawal processing execution unit 114 executes the second withdrawal processing required to withdraw the store's electronic cash. For example, the second withdrawal processing execution unit 114 executes the second withdrawal processing in such a way that the store's electronic cash is withdrawn up to the user-specified amount. The second withdrawal processing execution unit 114 executes the second withdrawal processing in such a way that the remaining balance of the store's electronic cash is reduced to the user-specified amount, and the user-specified amount is withdrawn. The second withdrawal processing execution unit 114 can also execute the second withdrawal processing in such a way that the balance of the store's electronic cash is reduced to the amount specified by the user and the withdrawal reaches the amount specified by the user minus the handling fee.

The second fee generation unit 115 generates a higher fee when the second withdrawal process is executed than when the first withdrawal process is executed. The fee generation method itself can be the same as that of the first fee generation unit 112. The fee for the first withdrawal process and the fee for the second withdrawal process can also be predefined in the data storage unit 100. The difference between the fee for the first withdrawal process and the fee for the second withdrawal process can be a fixed value regardless of the withdrawal amount, or the difference can increase or decrease as the withdrawal amount increases. The fee can be deducted from a standard electronic cash or from the store using electronic cash. The handling fee can also be deducted from other payment methods such as electronic currency or points.

According to Modification 1-13, when the second withdrawal process is executed for withdrawing store-use electronic cash, a higher fee is incurred than when the first withdrawal process is executed for withdrawing general-purpose electronic cash. This improves convenience for first users who do not have a pre-registered plan to use general-purpose electronic cash or store-use electronic cash. Furthermore, since the specified fee is incurred for the checkout service, the profitability of the checkout service can be improved.

[Variation 1-14] For example, electronic cash can also be managed using tokens on a blockchain. A token is a unit of value issued on a blockchain. The data format of the token itself can be any of the various data formats used in conventional blockchains.

Tokens are sent from one address to another. Tokens can be associated with any metadata. Addresses can also be associated with any metadata. Modification 1-14 illustrates how tokens representing individual electronic cash are associated with the user address representing the owner of the electronic cash and the usage conditions specified for the electronic cash. The user address is a type of user identification information.

In variation 1-14, the store described in the first embodiment is described as an example of a usage condition contained in the token's interpretation data. The usage condition may also be another condition described in the second embodiment. The token corresponding to the store's electronic cash is associated with information that can identify the first store, such as the store ID or store address. For example, if the store's electronic cash is from "XXX Convenience Store," the token for that store's electronic cash is associated with the user address of the user who owns the store's electronic cash and the store ID or store address of "XXX Convenience Store." In the case of general electronic cash, the user address of the user who owns the general electronic cash is associated with the general electronic cash token.

Furthermore, tokens can be associated with any other information. For example, a token can be associated with an electronic cash balance. Electronic cash and tokens do not necessarily have a one-to-one correspondence; multiple electronic cash items can be managed using a single token. For example, multiple electronic cash items owned by a user can be managed using a single token. In this case, a token can represent both general electronic cash and store electronic cash. For example, the token can be associated with both the general electronic cash balance and the store electronic cash balance. The token can also be associated with the total balance of multiple electronic cash items.

The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of the store electronic cash at the second store based on the store ID associated with the token. In Modification 1-14, the usage restriction unit 104 utilizes the filtering function of the blockchain to restrict the use of the store electronic cash at the second store. The usage restriction unit 104 utilizes the filtering function to restrict the transfer of the token corresponding to the store electronic cash of the first user to the second store. The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the transfer of the token if the store ID of the first store to which the token is associated does not match the store ID designated as the transfer destination.

According to Modification 1-14, the store electronic cash is restricted from being used at the second store based on the store ID associated with the token corresponding to the store electronic cash. This ensures that the store electronic cash can only be used at the first store.

[Variant 1-15] Similar to Variant 1-14, Variant 1-15 describes a scenario in which electronic cash is managed using tokens on a blockchain. Transfer history information related to the electronic cash's transfer history is associated with the token corresponding to the electronic cash. This transfer history information is equivalent to the usage history information described in the first embodiment. For example, the transfer history information includes the store ID of the store where the checkout service was used, the date and time of use, and the amount used.

The checkout system S includes a first detection unit 116. The first detection unit 116 detects the transfer of electronic cash from the first user to the first store based on the transfer history information managed in the blockchain. The term "managed in the blockchain" means that it is managed by a system different from the blockchain of the checkout service. The transfer history information can also be recorded in a computer other than the server 10. For example, when the transfer history information contains the store ID of the first store, the first detection unit 116 detects that the first user used electronic cash in the first store. The first detecting unit 116 may also detect, based on the transfer history information, that the first user has used electronic cash a predetermined number of times in the first store.

When the first detection unit 116 detects the transfer, the gift giving unit 103 gives the first user store electronic cash. For example, the gift giving unit 103 increases the balance of the store electronic cash associated with the token corresponding to the first user by a predetermined amount.

Based on your transfer history, you can grant e-cash to a store as a gift for using your first store a certain number of times, or offer discounts for multiple subscriptions. By referencing the date and time of use included in your transfer history, you can also grant e-cash to a store as a gift for use during idle time. If the transfer history includes a reason for granting e-cash, you can withdraw e-cash granted as salary with no fees.

According to Modification 1-15, the transfer of electronic cash from the first user to the first store is detected based on the transfer history information managed in the blockchain. If the transfer is detected, the store is given electronic cash to the first user. This allows the store to more reliably give electronic cash to the first user.

[Variant 1-16] Variant 1-16, similar to Variant 1-14 and Variant 1-15, describes a case where electronic cash is managed using tokens on a blockchain. Checkout system S includes a second detection unit 117. Second detection unit 117 detects the use of electronic cash at the first store based on usage history information regarding the use of electronic cash managed off-chain.

In contrast to variation 1-15, which uses transfer history information managed on the blockchain to detect the use of electronic cash in the first store, variation 1-16 uses usage history information managed outside the blockchain. The usage history information is the same as that described in the first embodiment. The usage gift granting unit 103 grants electronic cash to the store when the second detection unit 117 detects usage. The processing of the usage gift granting unit 103 differs in that the electronic cash is managed as a token; otherwise, it remains the same as the first embodiment.

According to Modification 1-16, when the use of electronic cash at a first store is detected based on usage history information about electronic cash managed outside the blockchain, electronic cash is granted to the first user. This allows the first user to be granted electronic cash at the store with greater certainty.

[4-2. Modifications Related to the Second Embodiment] Figure 14 illustrates an example of functional blocks in a modification related to the second embodiment. The checkout request accepting unit 101, the usage gift granting unit 103, the usage restriction unit 104, the specifying unit 108, the grant restriction unit 109, the first benefit generating unit 110A, and the second benefit generating unit 110B are primarily implemented by the control unit 11.

[Variant 2-1] For example, in the second embodiment, when electronic cash with specified usage conditions is transferred from a first user to a second user, the first user is given electronic cash with the same specified usage conditions as a gift. The transfer gift giving unit 107 may also give the first user a gift different from the electronic cash with specified usage conditions. The gift may be electronic cash with usage conditions different from those of the electronic cash transferred from the first user to the second user, or may be electronic cash with no specified usage conditions. In addition, non-electronic cash gifts (such as donations to charities, etc.) can also be given.

According to Modification 2-1, a gift different from the conditional electronic cash is given to the first user. This provides an incentive for the first user to transfer the conditional electronic cash to the second user. For example, the first user can be allowed to specify the gift they wish to receive. In this case, the first user can be given an even stronger incentive to transfer the conditional electronic cash to the second user.

[Variant 2-2] For example, as described in the second embodiment, if the usage condition is a store that accepts electronic cash, the gift-giving unit 107 may also give the first user a gift unrelated to the store as a different gift than described in Variation 2-1. For example, the gift-giving unit 107 may also give store-use electronic cash from another store as a gift, or may also give general-purpose electronic cash as a gift. The gift-giving unit 107 may also give other payment methods such as electronic currency or points as a gift.

According to Modification 2-2, the gift unrelated to the store is given to the first user as a different gift from that described in Modification 2-1. This provides the first user with an incentive to transfer the electronic cash with specified usage conditions to the second user.

[Variant 2-3] For example, the second embodiment can be combined with Variation 1-5 of the first embodiment. The checkout system S of Variation 2-3 includes a grant restriction unit 109. Grant restriction unit 109 restricts the repeated transfer of electronic cash between the first and second users, thereby preventing the repeated gift transfers via the gift transfer unit 107. This restriction is similar to that described in Variation 1-5. While Variation 1-5 describes the use condition as being a store, in Variation 2-3, electronic cash with a use condition other than a store is also subject to restrictions imposed by grant restriction unit 109. For example, the gift restriction unit 109 also restricts the use of electronic cash with specified usage conditions such as time zones, days of the week, or regions, to prevent repeated transfers of electronic cash between the first and second users, which could lead to repeated gift transfers via the gift transfer unit 107.

According to variant 2-3, restrictions are imposed to prevent the first and second users from repeatedly sending electronic cash to each other, resulting in the gift being repeatedly given. This, similar to variant 1-5, prevents the first and second users from receiving the gift indefinitely.

[Variant 2-4] For example, the second embodiment can be combined with Variation 1-6 of the first embodiment. In Variation 2-4, the transfer processing execution unit 106 utilizes general-purpose electronic cash, or general-purpose electronic cash, to perform a transfer process so that electronic cash with specified usage conditions is transferred to the second user. The transfer process itself is the same as described in Variation 1-6. While Variation 1-6 describes the use condition as a store, Variation 2-4 also allows transfer processing of electronic cash with usage conditions other than stores. For example, the transfer processing execution unit 106 performs transfer processing using universal electronic cash for electronic cash that has specified usage conditions such as time periods, days of the week, or regions.

The remittance gift granting unit 107 grants a gift to the first user when a remittance process using general-purpose electronic cash has been executed. Although this differs from the second embodiment in that the electronic cash serving as the source of the remittance process is general-purpose electronic cash, the method of granting the gift itself is the same as that described in the second embodiment.

According to Modification 2-4, a transfer process is performed using universal electronic cash, that is, general-purpose electronic cash, so that the electronic cash with specified usage conditions is transferred to the second user. When the transfer process using the general-purpose electronic cash is executed, a gift is given to the first user. This improves user convenience, similar to Modification 1-6.

[Variant 2-5] For example, the second embodiment can be combined with Variation 1-7 of the first embodiment. Variation 2-5 describes how the benefit generation unit 110 of Variation 1-7 generates benefits for the first user. The checkout system S of Variation 2-5 includes a first benefit generation unit 110A. When a transfer process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the first benefit generation unit 110A generates benefits for the first user that would not have been generated if a transfer process using electronic cash with specified usage conditions had been executed. In other words, the first benefit generation unit 110A, within the benefit generation unit 110 described in Variation 1-7, has the function of generating benefits for the first user. This function is as described in Variation 1-7.

According to Modification 2-5, when a transfer process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the first user can benefit from a transfer process that would not have occurred if a transfer process using electronic cash with specified usage conditions had been executed. Thus, similar to Modification 1-7, the first user can be motivated to transfer store-use electronic cash to the second user.

[Variant 2-6] Variant 2-6 describes how the benefit generation unit 110 of Variant 1-7 generates benefits for the second user. For example, the checkout system S of Variant 2-6 includes a second benefit generation unit 110B. When a remittance process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the second benefit generation unit 110B generates benefits for the second user that would not otherwise be generated if a remittance process using electronic cash with specified usage conditions were executed. In other words, the second benefit generation unit 110B, in the benefit generation unit 110 described in Variant 1-7, has a function for generating benefits for the second user. This function is as described in Variant 1-7.

According to Modification 2-6, when a transfer process using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the second user can benefit from a transfer process that would not have occurred if a transfer process using electronic cash with specified usage conditions had been executed. Thus, similar to Modification 1-7, the first user can be motivated to transfer store-use electronic cash to the second user.

[Variant 2-7] For example, the remittance request accepting unit 105 may repeatedly accept remittance requests. The remittance processing execution unit 106 may execute remittance processing each time a remittance request is accepted. The remittance gift granting unit 107 may also grant a gift to the first user each time a remittance process is executed. Each remittance process and gift granting process is as described in the second embodiment. For example, if the remittance processing is executed in response to a remittance request from the first user, and then the first user issues another remittance request, the remittance processing execution unit 106 executes a remittance process based on the remittance request. The remittance gift granting unit 107 grants a gift to the first user when the initial remittance process is executed, and also grants a gift to the first user when the remittance process is executed again.

According to Modification 2-7, a transfer process is executed each time a transfer request is received, and a gift is given to the first user each time the transfer process is executed. This provides the first user with a stronger incentive to transfer store electronic cash to the second user.

[Variant 2-8] For example, the gift-giving unit 107 may grant a gift to the first user based on the credit already transferred from the first user to the second user. For example, the gift-giving unit 107 may grant a gift to the first user such that the greater the credit already transferred from the first user to the second user, the greater the gift. Alternatively, if multiple gifts are to be granted to the first user, the gift-giving unit 107 may grant the gift such that the amount of the gift increases as the credit already transferred from the first user to the second user increases.

According to variation 2-8, a gift is given to the first user based on the amount transferred from the first user to the second user. This provides the first user with a stronger incentive to transfer store electronic cash to the second user.

[Variant 2-9] For example, the first embodiment can also be applied to the second embodiment. In Variant 2-9, the usage condition is that the store accepts electronic cash. The checkout system S of Variant 2-9 includes a checkout request receiving unit 101, a usage gift granting unit 103, and a usage restriction unit 104. These functions are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

According to modification 2-9, as in the first embodiment, the user can be motivated to visit the first store again.

[Variant 2-10] For example, the second embodiment can be combined with Variation 1-1 of the first embodiment. In Variation 2-10, usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of store electronic cash at the second store and prohibits the use of store electronic cash at the first store during the second time period. This restriction method is the same as that described in Variation 1-1.

According to variant 2-10, similar to variant 1-1, the customer attraction effect of the first time period when the first store is relatively idle can be improved.

[Variant 2-11] For example, the second embodiment can be combined with Variation 1-2 of the first embodiment. In Variation 2-11, usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of in-store electronic cash at a second store located in a second zone. This restriction method is similar to that described in Variation 1-2.

According to modification 2-11, similar to modification 1-2, the first user can be given an incentive to come to the first area again.

[Variant 2-12] For example, the third embodiment can also be applied to the second embodiment. In variant 2-12, the first user holds multiple electronic cash items with mutually different usage conditions. The checkout system S of variant 2-12 includes a specifying unit 108. The processing of the specifying unit 108 and the processing of the checkout processing execution unit 102 when the specifying unit 108 specifies multiple electronic cash items are the same as those described in the third embodiment.

According to variant example 2-12, user convenience can be improved, similar to the third embodiment.

[4-3. Modifications Related to the Third Embodiment] Figure 15 illustrates an example of the functional blocks of a modification related to the third embodiment. The use gift granting unit 103, use restriction unit 104, transfer request accepting unit 105, transfer processing execution unit 106, transfer gift granting unit 107, first determination unit 118, second determination unit 119, and designation accepting unit 120 are implemented primarily by the control unit 11.

[Variant 3-1] For example, the usage conditions may include stores where electronic cash can be used and other conditions. Other conditions are as described in the second and third embodiments. In Variation 3-1, the checkout processing execution unit 102, after the identification unit 108 identifies a first electronic cash whose usage condition is a specified store and a second electronic cash whose usage condition is a specified other condition, executes the checkout processing based on the priority of the first and second electronic cash.

For example, assume that a user possesses: a store-use electronic cash with store-specific usage conditions, a zone-use electronic cash with zone-specific usage conditions, and a time-zone-use electronic cash with time-zone-specific usage conditions. If these three electronic cashes are accepted at the store the user visits, checkout processing is performed based on the priority of these three electronic cashes. For example, if the time-zone electronic cash has the highest priority, the store electronic cash has the second highest priority, and the zone electronic cash has the lowest priority, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout processing so that the time-zone electronic cash is used first.

According to Modification 3-1, when a first electronic cash whose use condition is a specified store and a second electronic cash whose use condition is specified other than the specified store are identified, checkout processing is performed based on the priority of the first electronic cash and the second electronic cash. This improves user convenience.

[Variant 3-2] For example, a priority level may be set based on a user's usage history of the billing service. The billing system S of Variation 3-2 includes a first determining unit 118. The first determining unit 118 determines the priority level based on usage history information regarding electronic cash usage. For example, the first determining unit 118 may determine the priority level such that a higher number of times, frequency of use, or amount of electronic cash used results in a higher priority level. Alternatively, the first determining unit 118 may determine the priority level such that a longer usage period from the start of electronic cash use results in a higher priority level.

When the identification unit 108 identifies a plurality of electronic cash items, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout processing based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash items determined by the first determination unit 118. While the priority determination method differs from that of the third embodiment, the checkout processing based on the priority is the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-2, the checkout process is performed based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cashes determined based on the usage history information regarding the electronic cash usage history. This improves user convenience by setting the priority according to the user's usage history.

[Variant 3-3] For example, the priority of electronic cash can also be determined using machine learning. Machine learning itself can utilize various well-known methods, including supervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or unsupervised learning. In Variation 3-3, supervised learning is used as an example. The checkout system S of Variation 3-3 includes a second determination unit 119. The second determination unit 119 determines the priority of the first user based on a learning model that has learned the relationship between feature information about the features of other first users and priority, and the feature information of the first user.

Feature information refers to any information related to a user's characteristics. For example, feature information includes all or part of usage history information. Feature information can also be demographic information such as a user's name, age, gender, occupation, or annual income. In the learning model, various user feature information is paired with the electronic cash priority specified by the user, and is learned as training data. The priority contained in the training data can be determined based on usage history information, as shown in Variation 3-2, or can be specified by the administrator of the billing service. For example, if the pairing of the characteristics of younger, more frequent users and the preference for electronic cash with specified stores as a usage condition is learned as training data, then if the first user's characteristics indicate younger age and higher usage frequency, the preference for electronic cash with specified stores as a usage condition will be higher.

When the identification unit 108 identifies a plurality of electronic cash items, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout processing based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash items determined by the second determination unit 119. While the priority determination method differs from that of the third embodiment, the checkout processing based on the priority is the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-3, checkout processing is performed based on the priorities of multiple electronic cash items determined based on the learned model that has learned the relationship between feature information and priorities related to other first users' features, and the feature information of the first user. This allows the priority of items that are most convenient for the user to be estimated, even for users with little usage history, thereby improving user convenience.

[Variation 3-4] For example, if the identification unit 108 identifies multiple electronic cashes, the checkout processing execution unit 102 may execute the checkout process so that if the balance of an electronic cash with a relatively higher priority is exhausted, electronic cash with a relatively lower priority is used. If the balance of the electronic cash with the highest priority exceeds the usage limit included in the checkout request, the checkout process execution unit 102 executes the checkout process so that only the electronic cash with the highest priority is used to complete the checkout. If the balance of the highest-priority electronic cash is less than the usage limit included in the payment request, the payment execution unit 102 will combine the balance of the second-highest-priority electronic cash to perform the payment. If the balance is still insufficient even after combining the second-highest-priority electronic cash, the payment execution unit 102 will combine the balance of electronic cash with a priority of 3 or lower to perform the payment.

According to Variation 3-4, if the balance of a relatively high-priority electronic cash is exhausted, the checkout process will be performed using a relatively low-priority electronic cash. This maximizes the utilization of the relatively high-priority electronic cash, thereby improving user convenience.

[Variant 3-5] For example, when the identification unit 108 identifies multiple electronic cash, the checkout processing execution unit 102 may execute the checkout processing so that the utilization amount of the electronic cash with a relatively higher priority among the multiple electronic cash is greater than the utilization amount of the electronic cash with a relatively lower priority. In Variation 3-5, as in Variation 3-4, the remaining balance of the electronic cash with a relatively higher priority may be fully utilized, or a certain amount of balance may be left. For example, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout processing so that the multiple electronic cash are concurrently used in a ratio based on priority. For example, assuming three available electronic cash items are identified, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout processing using a combination of the highest priority electronic cash item at 50%, the second highest priority electronic cash item at 30%, and the lowest priority electronic cash item at 20%.

According to Modification 3-5, the checkout process is performed so that the usage amount of electronic cash with a relatively higher priority is greater than the usage amount of electronic cash with a relatively lower priority. This allows electronic cash with a relatively higher priority to be used more, thereby improving user convenience.

[Variant 3-6] For example, the priority of electronic cash can be specified by the first user. The checkout system S of Variant 3-6 includes a specification accepting unit 120. The specification accepting unit 120 accepts the priority specification made by the first user. For example, the user terminal 20 may display a list of a plurality of electronic cash held by the first user, and the specification accepting unit 120 accepts the priority specification of the electronic cash from the list. The priority specified by the first user may be stored in the user database DB.

When the identification unit 108 identifies a plurality of electronic cash items, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes a checkout process based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash items designated by the first user. While the priority determination method differs from that of the third embodiment, the checkout process based on priority remains the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-6, the checkout process is performed based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash items specified by the first user. This allows the first user to specify the desired priority, thereby improving the convenience of the first user.

[Variant 3-7] For example, as shown in Variation 3-6, if the user specifies the priority of electronic cash, the designation accepting unit 120 may also accept the designation of the priority for each store. For example, the user terminal 20 may display a list of multiple stores available to the first user, and the designation accepting unit 120 may accept the designation of the store for which priority is to be specified and the priority of the electronic cash within that store from this list. The store and priority designated by the first user may simply be associated with each other and stored in the user database DB.

The checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout process based on the priority associated with the store corresponding to the checkout request. This priority is the priority associated with the store indicated by the store ID included in the checkout request. While the priority determination method differs from the third embodiment, the checkout process based on priority remains the same as described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-7, a priority is assigned to each store, and checkout processing is performed based on the priority associated with the store corresponding to the checkout request. This allows the first user to specify their desired priority for each store, thereby improving convenience for the first user.

[Variation 3-8] For example, in the third embodiment, as described in the first embodiment, the payment processing execution unit 102 can also execute payment processing that combines electronic cash with specified usage conditions with general-purpose electronic cash, i.e., general-purpose electronic cash. The payment processing that combines these two is the same as that described in the first embodiment.

According to Modification 3-8, it is possible to perform a payment process that combines electronic cash with specified usage conditions and general electronic cash, i.e., general electronic cash. This can improve user convenience.

[Variant 3-9] For example, the first embodiment can also be applied to the third embodiment. In Variant 3-9, the usage condition is that the store accepts electronic cash. The checkout system S of Variant 3-9 includes a usage gift giving unit 103 and a usage restriction unit 104. These functions are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

According to modification 3-9, as in the first embodiment, the user can be motivated to visit the first store again.

[Variant 3-10] For example, the third embodiment can be combined with Variation 1-1 of the first embodiment. In Variation 3-10, usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of store electronic cash at the second store and prohibits the use of store electronic cash at the first store during the second time period. This restriction method is the same as that described in Variation 1-1.

According to variant 3-10, similar to variant 1-1, the customer attraction effect of the first time period when the first store is relatively idle can be improved.

[Variant 3-11] For example, the third embodiment can be combined with Variation 1-2 of the first embodiment. In Variation 3-11, usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of in-store electronic cash at the second store located in the second zone. This restriction method is similar to that described in Variation 1-2.

According to modification 3-11, similar to modification 1-2, the first user can be given an incentive to come to the first area again.

[Variant 3-12] For example, the second embodiment can also be applied to the third embodiment. In variant 3-12, the settlement system S includes a remittance request receiving unit 105, a remittance processing execution unit 106, and a remittance gift granting unit 107. These functions are the same as those described in the second embodiment.

According to Modification 3-12, similar to the second embodiment, the first user can be motivated to transfer store electronic cash to the second user.

[4-4. Other variations]

For example, the variations described above can be combined.

For example, stores that can utilize the checkout service are not limited to physical stores; they can also be online stores. For example, although the main functions are described as being implemented by server 10, each function can also be distributed among multiple computers. For example, functions described as being implemented in server 10 can also be implemented in user terminal 20, store terminal 30, or other computers. Data described as being stored in server 10 can also be stored in other computers such as database servers.

S: Checkout System

N: Network

10: Server

11, 21, 31: Control Department

12, 22, 32: Memory

13, 23, 33: Communications Department

20: User terminal

24,34: Operation Department

25,35: Display

30: Store Terminal

36: Reading device

B11, B12, B13, B14, B40: Buttons

C10: Code

DB: User database

G1, G1A, G1B: Main screen

G2, G2A, G2B, G2C, G2D, G2E, G2F: Checkout completion screen

G3: Selection screen

G4: Input screen

G5: Completed Screen

100:Data Memory Department

101: Checkout Request Acceptance Department

102: Billing Processing Execution Department

103: Using Gifts to Give to the Department

104: Usage Restriction Section

105: Remittance Request Acceptance Department

106: Remittance Processing Execution Department

107: Gift Remittance Department

108: Specific Department

109: Grant Restriction Department

110: Profit Generation Department

110A: First Profit Generation Department

110B: Second Profit Generation Department

111: Change Processing Execution Department

112: First Fee Generation Department

113: 1st Withdrawal Processing Execution Department

114: 2nd Withdrawal Processing Execution Department

115: Second handling fee generation department

116: First Detection Unit

117: Second Detection Unit

118:Decision 1

119:Second Decision Department

120: Designated Receiving Department

200:Data Memory Department

201: Display control unit

202: Send Request Signal Department

300:Data Memory Department

301: Checkout request signaling department

[Figure 1] An example diagram of the overall configuration of the checkout system described in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] An example diagram of a checkout application screen. [Figure 3] An example diagram of a checkout application screen in which electronic cash has been issued to a store. [Figure 4] A functional block diagram of an example of the functions implemented in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] An example diagram of a user database. [Figure 6] A flowchart of an example of the processing performed in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] An example diagram of a checkout application screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] A functional block diagram of an example of the functions implemented in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] A flowchart of an example of the processing performed in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] An example of a screen display of the checkout application in the third embodiment. [Figure 11] A functional block diagram showing an example of the functions implemented in the third embodiment. [Figure 12] A flow chart showing an example of the processing performed in the third embodiment. [Figure 13] An example of a functional block diagram showing a modification example related to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] An example of a functional block diagram showing a modification example related to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] An example of a functional block diagram showing a modification example related to the third embodiment.

10: Server

20: User terminal

30: Store Terminal

100:Data Memory Department

101: Checkout Request Acceptance Department

102: Billing Processing Execution Department

103: Using Gifts to Give to the Department

104: Usage Restriction Section

200:Data Memory Department

201: Display control unit

300:Data Memory Department

301: Checkout request signaling department

DB: User database

Claims (19)

A checkout system comprises: Statistical means for calculating, based on usage history information regarding the use history of the previously recorded cashless checkout service at a first store and a second store that can utilize the same cashless checkout service, a first time period during which the previously recorded first store is relatively unoccupied; Checkout request acceptance means for accepting a checkout request required by a first user to utilize an electronic checkout means that can be utilized for the previously recorded cashless checkout service at the previously recorded first store; Checkout processing execution means for executing a checkout process if the previously recorded checkout request has been accepted; and The use gift granting means is used to increase the balance of the store-use electronic checkout means, which is exclusively used at the first store in the previous record and is usable during the first time period of the previous record, as a gift granted to the first user of the previous record who used the electronic checkout means, when the previous checkout process has been executed. The use restriction means is used to restrict the use of the store-use electronic checkout means at the second store in the previous record and to prevent the use of the store-use electronic checkout means at the first store in the previous record during the second time period of the day, which is different from the first time period of the previous record. The checkout system of claim 1, wherein: The electronic checkout means for the pre-registered store is usable at the pre-registered store No. 1 and the third store located within the first zone containing the pre-registered store No. 1; The pre-registered usage restriction means restricts the use of the electronic checkout means for the pre-registered store at the pre-registered store No. 2 located within the second zone. A checkout system comprises: Checkout request acceptance means for accepting, at a first store and a second store that utilize the same cashless checkout service, a checkout request from a first user at the first store to utilize an electronic checkout means that can be utilized in the previous cashless checkout service; Checkout processing execution means for executing a checkout process if the previous checkout request has been accepted; Use gift granting means for increasing the balance of the store-use electronic checkout means dedicated to the first store as a gift to the first user who utilized the previous electronic checkout means if the previous checkout process has been executed; and The usage restriction means is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store at the pre-recorded store No. 2; and the transfer request acceptance means is used to accept a transfer request required to transfer the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store from the pre-recorded user No. 1 to the pre-recorded user No. 2; and the transfer processing execution means is used to execute the transfer processing if the pre-recorded transfer request has been accepted. The pre-recorded usage restriction means is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store by the pre-recorded user No. 2 at the pre-recorded store No. 2. The pre-registration restriction method determines whether a customer can use the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method based on the store identification information included in the pre-registration checkout request and the identification information of the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method. The checkout system as recited in claim 3, wherein the pre-registration checkout system further comprises: a remittance gift granting means for increasing the balance of the pre-registration store's electronic checkout means as a gift to the first pre-registration user when a pre-registration remittance process has been executed. The checkout system as recited in claim 4, wherein: The pre-recorded checkout system further comprises: a grant restriction means for restricting the repeated transfer of pre-recorded store electronic checkout means between a pre-recorded first user and a pre-recorded second user, thereby preventing the pre-recorded store electronic checkout means from being repeatedly granted as a gift by the pre-recorded gift granting means. A checkout system comprises: Checkout request acceptance means for accepting, at a first store and a second store that utilize the same cashless checkout service, a checkout request from a first user at the first store to utilize an electronic checkout means that can be utilized in the previous cashless checkout service; Checkout processing execution means for executing a checkout process if the previous checkout request has been accepted; Use gift granting means for increasing the balance of the store-use electronic checkout means dedicated to the first store as a gift to the first user who utilized the previous electronic checkout means if the previous checkout process has been executed; and The usage restriction means is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store at the pre-recorded store No. 2; and The transfer request acceptance means is used to accept a transfer request required to transfer the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store from the pre-recorded user No. 1 to the pre-recorded user No. 2; and The transfer processing execution means is used to transfer the electronic checkout means used by the former store to the former user, using the universal electronic checkout means, which is usable at all affiliated stores, including the former store No. 1 and the former store No. 2, once the transfer request has been accepted. This means by deducting the balance of the universal electronic checkout means and increasing the balance of the electronic checkout means used by the former store, thereby executing the transfer process. The former usage restriction means is used to restrict the former user from using the electronic checkout means used by the former store at the former store No. 2. The pre-registration restriction method determines whether a customer can use the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method based on the store identification information included in the pre-registration checkout request and the identification information of the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method. The checkout system as recited in claim 6, wherein: The pre-registered checkout system further comprises: a second gift generating means for generating, when a pre-registered transfer process is executed using the pre-registered general electronic checkout means, a second gift for at least one of the pre-registered first user and the pre-registered second user, which gift would not have been generated if a pre-registered transfer process was executed using the pre-registered store electronic checkout means. The checkout system as recited in any of claim items 1 to 7, wherein: The pre-record checkout request is a request for utilizing the pre-record store electronic checkout means at the pre-record store number 1; The pre-record use gift granting means is a means for increasing the pre-record store electronic checkout means balance of the pre-record store number 1 user when the pre-record checkout process is executed and the pre-record store electronic checkout means is utilized at the pre-record store number 1. The checkout system as recited in any of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The pre-recorded checkout system further comprises: Change processing execution means for executing the change processing required to convert the electronic checkout means used by the pre-recorded store into a universal electronic checkout means usable by all franchise stores, including the pre-recorded store No. 1 and the pre-recorded store No. 2, i.e., a universal electronic checkout means; and First handling fee incurring means for incurring a predetermined handling fee when the pre-recorded change processing is executed. The checkout system as recited in any of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The previous checkout system further comprises: a first withdrawal processing execution means for executing the first withdrawal processing required for withdrawing funds using the previous general electronic checkout means; a second withdrawal processing execution means for executing the second withdrawal processing required for withdrawing funds using the previous store electronic checkout means; and a second fee generation means for generating, when the previous second withdrawal processing is executed, a higher fee than that which would have been generated if the previous first withdrawal processing had been executed. A checkout system as recited in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: All of the aforementioned checkout methods are managed using tokens on a blockchain; The aforementioned tokens corresponding to the aforementioned store electronic checkout methods are associated with store identification information identifying the first aforementioned store; The aforementioned usage restriction means restricts the use of the aforementioned store electronic checkout methods at the second aforementioned store based on the aforementioned store identification information. A checkout system as recited in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: All previously recorded checkout means are managed using tokens in a blockchain; Transfer history information regarding the transfer history of all previously recorded checkout means is associated with the previously recorded tokens corresponding to all previously recorded checkout means; The previously recorded checkout system further comprises: first detection means for detecting the transfer of all previously recorded checkout means from a previously recorded first user to a previously recorded first store based on the previously recorded transfer history information managed in the previously recorded blockchain; Previous record gift granting means for granting the previously recorded store a checkout means to the previously recorded first user upon detecting the previously recorded transfer by the previously recorded first detection means. The checkout system as recited in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the aforementioned checkout means are managed using tokens on a blockchain; the aforementioned checkout system further comprises: second detection means for detecting usage of the aforementioned checkout means at the aforementioned first store based on usage history information regarding usage of the aforementioned checkout means managed externally from the aforementioned blockchain; and means for granting a gift for use of the aforementioned checkout means as a gift to the aforementioned store, upon detection of the aforementioned use by the aforementioned second detection means. A checkout method comprises: a counting step for counting a first time period during which the first store is relatively idle based on usage history information regarding a previous cashless checkout service usage history at a first store and a second store that can utilize the same cashless checkout service; a checkout request acceptance step for accepting a checkout request required for a first user to utilize an electronic checkout method that can utilize the previous cashless checkout service at the first store; a checkout processing execution step for executing a checkout process if the previous checkout request has been accepted; and The gift granting step is for increasing the balance of the electronic checkout means for use exclusively at the first store in the previous record, which is usable during the first time period of the previous record, as a gift granted to the first user of the previous record who used the electronic checkout means, if the previous checkout process has been executed. The usage restriction step is for restricting the use of the electronic checkout means at the second store in the previous record, and restricting the use of the electronic checkout means at the first store in the previous record, during the second time period of the day, which is different from the first time period of the previous record. A checkout method comprises: a checkout request acceptance step for accepting, at a first store and a second store that utilize the same cashless checkout service, a checkout request from a first user at the first store to utilize an electronic checkout method that can be utilized in the previous cashless checkout service; a checkout processing execution step for executing a checkout process if the previous checkout request has been accepted; and a gift granting step for increasing the balance of the store-use electronic checkout method exclusively used by the first store as a gift granted to the first user who utilized the previous electronic checkout method if the previous checkout process has been executed; and The usage restriction step is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout system for the pre-recorded store at the pre-recorded store No. 2. The transfer request acceptance step is used to accept a transfer request for transferring the electronic checkout system for the pre-recorded store from the pre-recorded user No. 1 to the pre-recorded user No. 2. The transfer processing execution step is used to execute the transfer processing if the pre-recorded transfer request has been accepted. The pre-recorded usage restriction step is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout system for the pre-recorded store by the pre-recorded user No. 2 at the pre-recorded store No. 2. The pre-registration restriction step determines whether the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method can be used based on the store identification information contained in the pre-registration checkout request and the identification information of the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method. A checkout method comprises: a checkout request acceptance step for accepting, at a first store and a second store that utilize the same cashless checkout service, a checkout request from a first user at the first store to utilize an electronic checkout method that can be utilized in the previous cashless checkout service; a checkout processing execution step for executing a checkout process if the previous checkout request has been accepted; and a gift granting step for increasing the balance of the store-use electronic checkout method exclusively used by the first store as a gift granted to the first user who utilized the previous electronic checkout method if the previous checkout process has been executed; and The use restriction step is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store at the pre-recorded store No. 2; and The transfer request acceptance step is used to accept a transfer request required to transfer the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store from the pre-recorded user No. 1 to the pre-recorded user No. 2; and The transfer processing step is used to transfer the pre-recorded store's electronic checkout means to the pre-recorded second user, using a universal electronic checkout means (i.e., universal electronic checkout means) that can be used in all franchise stores, including the pre-recorded first store and the pre-recorded second store, by deducting the balance of the pre-recorded universal electronic checkout means and increasing the balance of the pre-recorded store's electronic checkout means. The pre-recorded usage restriction step is used to restrict the pre-recorded second user from using the pre-recorded store's electronic checkout means at the pre-recorded second store. The pre-registration restriction step determines whether the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method can be used based on the store identification information contained in the pre-registration checkout request and the identification information of the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method. A program product is configured to cause a computer to function as: Means for calculating, based on usage history information regarding the use history of the previously recorded cashless checkout service at a first store and a second store that can utilize the same cashless checkout service, a first time period during which the previously recorded first store was relatively idle; Means for accepting checkout requests for a first user to utilize an electronic checkout method that can utilize the previously recorded cashless checkout service at the previously recorded first store; Means for executing checkout processing, if the previously recorded checkout request has been accepted; The use gift granting means is used to increase the balance of the store-use electronic checkout means, which is exclusive to the first store in the previous record and usable during the first time period of the previous record, as a gift granted to the first user who used the electronic checkout means in the previous record, if the previous checkout process has been executed. The use restriction means is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout means in the second store in the previous record and to prevent the use of the electronic checkout means in the first store in the previous record during the second time period of the day, which is different from the first time period of the previous record. A program product that causes a computer to function as: Checkout request acceptance means for accepting, at a first store and a second store that utilize the same cashless checkout service, a checkout request from a first user at the first store to utilize an electronic checkout means that can be utilized in the previous cashless checkout service; Checkout processing execution means for executing a checkout process if the previous checkout request has been accepted; Gift granting means for increasing the balance of the store-use electronic checkout means dedicated to the first store as a gift to the first user who utilized the previous electronic checkout means if the previous checkout process has been executed; The usage restriction means is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store at the pre-recorded store No. 2. The transfer request acceptance means is used to accept a transfer request required to transfer the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store from the pre-recorded user No. 1 to the pre-recorded user No. 2. The transfer processing execution means is used to execute the transfer processing after the pre-recorded transfer request has been accepted. The pre-recorded usage restriction means is used to restrict the use of the electronic checkout means for the pre-recorded store by the pre-recorded user No. 2 at the pre-recorded store No. 2. The pre-registration restriction method determines whether a customer can use the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method based on the store identification information included in the pre-registration checkout request and the identification information of the pre-registration store's electronic checkout method. A program product that causes a computer to function as: Checkout request acceptance means for accepting, at a first store and a second store that utilize the same cashless checkout service, a checkout request from a first user at the first store to utilize an electronic checkout means that can be utilized in the previous cashless checkout service; Checkout processing execution means for executing a checkout process if the previous checkout request has been accepted; Gift granting means for increasing the balance of the store-use electronic checkout means dedicated to the first store as a gift to the first user who utilized the previous electronic checkout means if the previous checkout process has been executed; The usage restriction means is used to restrict the use of the pre-recorded store-use checkout means at the pre-recorded second store; The transfer request acceptance means is used to accept a transfer request required to transfer the pre-recorded store-use checkout means from the pre-recorded first user to the second user; and The transfer processing execution means is used to, if the pre-recorded transfer request has been accepted, execute a transfer process to transfer the pre-recorded store-use electronic checkout means to the pre-recorded second user by using a universal electronic checkout means, i.e., a universal checkout means, which is usable at all affiliated stores, including the pre-recorded first store and the pre-recorded second store, by deducting the balance of the pre-recorded universal electronic checkout means and increasing the balance of the pre-recorded store-use electronic checkout means; The pre-recorded usage restriction means restricts the pre-recorded second user from using the pre-recorded store's checkout means at the pre-recorded second store. The pre-recorded usage restriction means determines whether the user can use the pre-recorded store's electronic checkout means based on the store identification information included in the pre-recorded checkout request and the identification information of the pre-recorded store's electronic checkout means.