SERVICE PROVISION SYSTEM, SERVICE PROVISION METHOD, MANAGEMENT APPARATUS, ANDCOMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM

There is provided a service provision system including: a management apparatus 100; and a service provision apparatus 200, the management apparatus 200 including: a biometric authentication means 110 for performing biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device 300; and a service request means 120 for requesting, if the user is authenticated, the service provision apparatus 200 to provide an item to be used by the user, and the service provision apparatus 200 including: a service acceptance means 210 for receiving the request for provision of the item from the management apparatus 100, and accepting the request for provision of the item to the user who is biometrically authenticated.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a service provision system, a service provision method and a management apparatus in which the service provision system is used, and also to a computer readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for realizing the apparatus and method.

BACKGROUND ART

When traveling for holidays, business trips and the like, the burden of tasks such as preparing items that will be needed at the travel destination and carrying large pieces of luggage at the destination tends to fall on the tourist or business traveler. In order to reduce the burden of tasks such as packing and carrying luggage, a service is provided for items that will be needed at the travel destination to be rented at the destination, as described in Non-Patent Document1, for example. This service enables tourists and business travelers to use items that they will be need at the travel destination by requesting the necessary items from a rental operator beforehand. Tourists and business travelers thereby no longer need to get ready beforehand or carry large pieces of luggage at their travel destination, and can thus travel lightly and relax at their destination.

LIST OF RELATED ART DOCUMENTS

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

However, there is a possibility that items rented by users are returned in a damaged state or the like, and rental operators could also suffer losses. Also, at the time of renting items, it is common for information such as a receipt number required at the time of receiving the items to be notified by e-mail or the like to the person who is requesting use of the rental service. However, with such a mechanism, it is possible for a person other than the user to impersonate the user and use the receipt number to rent items. Thus, a mechanism is required that realizes reliable transactions and enables rental operators to rent out items with peace of mind.

An example of an object of the invention is to provide a service provision system, a management apparatus, a service management method and a computer-readable recording medium that allow for reliable transactions between service providers and users.

Means for Solving the Problems

In order to achieve the aforementioned object, there is provided a service provision system including:

a management apparatus; and

a service provision apparatus,

the management apparatus including:

a biometric authentication unit configured to perform biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device; and

a service request unit configured to request, if the user is authenticated, the service provision apparatus to provide an item to be used by the user, and

the service provision apparatus including:

a service acceptance unit configured to receive the request for provision of the item from the management apparatus, and accepting the request for provision of the item to the user who is biometrically authenticated.

Also, in order to achieve the aforementioned object, there is provided a service provision method including:

performing biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device;

requesting, if the user is authenticated, provision of an item to be used by the user; and

receiving the request for provision of the item, and accepting the request for provision of the item to the user who is biometrically authenticated.

Furthermore, in order to achieve the aforementioned object, there is provided a management apparatus including:

a biometric authentication unit configured to perform biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device; and

a service request unit configured to request, if the user is authenticated, provision of an item to be used by the user.

Also, in order to achieve the aforementioned object, there is provided a computer-readable recording medium including a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out:

performing biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device;

requesting, if the user is authenticated, provision of an item to be used by the user; and

receiving the request for provision of the item, and accepting the request for provision of the item to the user who is biometrically authenticated.

Advantageous Effects of the Invention

As described above, according to the present invention, it can be allow for reliable transactions between service providers and users.

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

1. First Example Embodiment

First, a schematic configuration of a service provision system1according to a first example embodiment of the invention will be described based onFIG.1.FIG.1is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the service provision system1according to the first example embodiment of the invention.

The service provision system according to the present example embodiment is a system for providing a service that provides items to users. In the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment, a management apparatus100and a service provision apparatus200are connected via a network5, as shown inFIG.1.

The management apparatus100is a device for managing transactions between service providers and users. The management apparatus100has a biometric authentication unit110and a service request unit120. The biometric authentication unit110performs biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device. If the user is authenticated by the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120requests the service provision apparatus200to provide items to be used by the user.

The service provision apparatus200is a device for performing processing for procuring items with business operators in order to provide a service to users. The service provision apparatus200has a service acceptance unit210. The service acceptance unit210accepts requests, from the management apparatus100, for provision of items to biometrically authenticated users. Upon accepting a request for provision of an item, the service acceptance unit210requests an item provision operator to secure the item and requests a logistics operator to deliver the item, for example.

In the service provision system1, biometric authentication is implemented for identity verification purposes, at the time that a user receives provision of an item from a business operator. If the user is authenticated by the biometric authentication unit110, it becomes possible for the user to use the item, and the management apparatus100requests the service provision apparatus200to provide the item to the user. By implementing biometric authentication on the user at the time that he or she receives provision of the item, the user who is using the service can be specified. As a result, it is possible to prevent problems such as rental items being returned in a damaged state and items being used by another person impersonating the user. In this way, the service provision system1makes reliable transactions possible between service providers and users.

[1-2. Application to Subscription Service]

Next, service provision processing by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment will be described based onFIGS.2to4. Hereinafter, the case where the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment is applied to a subscription service will be described as a specific example.FIG.2is a schematic configuration diagram showing a network configuration of the subscription service to which the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment is applied.FIG.3is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment applied to the subscription service.FIG.4is a sequence diagram showing processing at the time of item provision by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment.

The subscription service shown inFIG.2is a service for providing users with necessary items at their destination. In the service provision system1of the subscription service shown inFIG.2, the management apparatus100and the service provision apparatus200shown inFIG.1, a terminal device300, an item provision server400and a logistics server500are connected via the network5. The terminal device300is a device for a user to input information, display information, and so on. The item provision server400is a device for performing processing for managing items in the item provision operator. The logistics server500is a device for performing processing for managing delivery of items in the logistics operator.

It is assumed that, at the time of using this subscription service, the user has already completed user registration for using the service. In the user registration, biometric information of the user is registered, and the biometric information is recorded in a storage unit (storage unit140inFIG.3) in association with a unique user ID assigned to the user. The biometric information that is recorded in the storage unit is also referred to as registered biometric information. Information on a body part from which a feature amount unique to the user can be extracted is used as biometric information. For example, information on the face, fingerprints, iris, veins and the like is used as biometric information. The biometric information is acquired as an image or video by an image capturing apparatus, for example, and the acquired image or video, or a feature amount that is extracted therefrom is recorded in the storage unit. At this time, registration of user information such as the user's name, address and e-mail address may also be accepted, and may be recorded in the storage unit in association with the user ID. Furthermore, certificate information of the user such as passport information may be recorded in the storage unit in association with the user ID and registered biometric information.

The user requests provision of an item A that will be needed at his or her travel destination using the terminal device300at the departure point, for example. Items that can be provided to the user include clothing al, a bag a2and consumables such as a toothbrush a3. With the subscription service, users are able to use the service within a service range for a fixed period.

Users are thus able to receive provision of necessary items without worrying about an increase in cost, as compared to a rental service that requires payment of a rental fee for each item.

Also, the service disclosed in Non-Patent Document1, for example, mainly focuses on clothing as items to be provided, and does not provide consumables necessary at a travel destination such as toothbrushes. Users such as tourists and business travelers thus need to provide their own consumables. With the subscription service, given that it is easy to incorporate consumables into the items that are provided, it is possible to provide a more convenient service. This service enables users to travel lightly and relax at their destination, without having to get items that they will need at their destination ready beforehand or carry large pieces of luggage at their destination. Note that users are also able to request provision of items at their destination, using the terminal device300, without necessarily needing to request items at their departure point.

When a user uses the subscription service, the management apparatus100requests the terminal device300to transmit biometric information of the user, in order to confirm that the service is available for use by that user. The terminal device300acquires biometric information of the user and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100.

The management apparatus100performs authentication processing based on the received biometric information, and, if the user is authenticated, requests the service provision apparatus200to provide the item to the user. Upon receiving the request for provision of the item, the service provision apparatus200requests the item provision server400to secure the item, and requests the logistics server500to deliver the item, via the network5. The item A requested by the user is thus procured and delivered to the delivery place at the travel destination. When the procurement of the item A is completed, the management apparatus100may notify the terminal device300of the completion of procurement and notify guidance about the delivery place. This notification may be given by e-mail, for example.

At the time that the user receives the item A at the travel destination, the management apparatus100requests the terminal device300to transmit biometric information of the user. At this time, the terminal device300may be a device in the possession of the user such as a smartphone or may be a device installed at the delivery place of the item A. The terminal device300acquires biometric information of the user and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100. The management apparatus100performs authentication processing based on the received biometric information, and, if the user is authenticated, permits provision of the item A to the user. In this way, by using biometric authentication to verify the identity of the user who is to receive the item, reliable transactions can be realized between service providers and users.

The block diagram inFIG.3shows functional units of the service provision system1that function from when a user who uses the subscription service shown inFIG.2requests an item until when the item is received. As shown inFIG.3, the service provision system1has the management apparatus100and the service provision apparatus200. The management apparatus100, the service provision apparatus200and the terminal device300are connected via the network5.

The management apparatus100includes the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, a delivery management unit130, and the storage unit140. The biometric authentication unit110and the service request unit120of the management apparatus100and the service acceptance unit210of the service provision apparatus200respectively function as described withFIG.1. A detailed description thereof will thus be omitted here.

The delivery management unit130manages the delivery of items to users. Once the user is authenticated by the biometric authentication unit110based on biometric information of the user acquired at the delivery place of the item, the delivery management unit130notifies the terminal device300via the network5that the item is available for pickup.

The storage unit140stores various information required in order for the management apparatus100to manage transactions between service providers and users in the service provision system1. The storage unit140stores biometric information of a user in association with the unique user ID assigned to the user, for example. Also, user information such as name, address and e-mail address is recorded in the storage unit140in association with the user ID.

Hereinafter, processing of the service provision system1from request to receipt of an item by a user who uses the subscription service shown inFIG.2will be described based onFIG.4. It is assumed that, at the time of using this subscription service, the user has already completed user registration for using the service.

First, the user selects an item to be provided by the subscription service and requests provision. In order to use the service, the user acquires biometric information using the terminal device300, and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100(S101). For example, when performing identity verification by facial recognition, the terminal device300acquires a facial image using an image capturing apparatus305and transmits the captured facial image to the management apparatus100. The image capturing apparatus305may be a camera provided in the terminal device300. Alternatively, the image capturing apparatus305may be a separate device from the terminal device300, and may be capable of transmitting the acquired image to the terminal device300.

The management apparatus100, having received the biometric information from the terminal device300, uses the biometric authentication unit110to perform identity verification through comparison with the biometric information recorded in advance in the storage unit140(S103). The biometric authentication unit110transmits the authentication result to the terminal device300(S105).

The terminal device300notifies the authentication result received in step S105to the user. If the user was not authenticated, the terminal device300acquires biometric information of the user again and executes processing from step S101. On the other hand, if the user was authenticated, it becomes possible for the user to use the service.

The user, having become able to use the service, selects an item using the terminal device300, and transmits a request for provision of the selected item to the management apparatus100(S107). The management apparatus100, having received the item provision request, transmits the item provision request to the service provision apparatus200(S109). The service provision apparatus200accepts the item provision request (5111). The service provision apparatus200then requests the item provision server400to secure the item and requests the distribution server500to deliver the item, via the network5, such that the item is delivered to the delivery place. The item requested by the user is thus procured and delivered to the delivery place by a designated date-time (S113).

Thereafter, the user receives the item at the delivery place on the designated date-time. At the time that the user receives the item, the management apparatus100uses the delivery management unit130for identity verification purposes to request a terminal device300that is at the delivery place to transmit biometric information of the user. The terminal device300may be a device in the possession of the user such as a smartphone or may be a device installed at the delivery place of the item. The terminal device300acquires the biometric information of the user and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100(S115).

Having received the biometric information from the terminal device300, the management apparatus100uses the biometric authentication unit110for identity verification purposes to perform comparison with the biometric information recorded in advance in the storage unit140(S117). The biometric authentication unit110compares the biometric information, and outputs the authentication result to the delivery management unit130. The delivery management unit130determines whether the item can be provided based on the authentication result by the biometric authentication unit110(S119), and transmits the determination result to the terminal device300via the network5(S121).

That is, if the user was not authenticated, the delivery management unit130transmits notification that the user was not authenticated and a request for retransmission of biometric information to the terminal device300. In this case, the user acquires biometric information of the user again using the terminal device300and executes processing from step S115.

On the other hand, if the user was authenticated, the delivery management unit130transmits notification to the terminal device300via the network5that the item is available for pickup. Upon receiving the item, the user uses the terminal device300to transmit a report to the management apparatus100that receipt of the item is completed (S123). The management apparatus100is thereby able to recognize that the item has been provided to the user.

Thereafter, the management apparatus100may transmit notification that receipt of the item by the user is completed or return information of the provided item to the terminal device300(S125). The return information includes the return place of the item and the return deadline, for example. The user need only return the item to the return place by the return deadline. At this time, in the case where return of the item by the user himself or herself is required, for example, identity verification by biometric authentication may be implemented at the return place, similarly to when the user received the item.

Note that, regarding receipt of items by users, there are also cases where a user requests provision of a plurality of items, as shown inFIG.2. At this time, the service request unit120of the management apparatus100may notify confirmation as to whether the plurality of items are to be received at the same time to the terminal device300of the user. Upon receiving this notification, the user transmits a reply as to whether the requested plurality of items are to be received at the same time to the management apparatus100, using the terminal device300. If a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time is received from the terminal device300, the management apparatus100notifies a request for delivery of the plurality of items at the same time to the service provision apparatus200.

Also, in the above description, the delivery place of items may be a manned place such as a hotel front desk or a store, for example. Alternatively, in the case where a locker at a hotel, train station, airport or the like is provided with a terminal device300, the locker can also be used as the delivery place of items. In this case, the user inputs biometric information using the terminal device300with which the locker is provided. The management apparatus100need only perform comparison of the input biometric information, and, if the user is authenticated, unlock the door of the locker in which the items are stored.

Hereinabove, the configuration of the service provision system1according to the first example embodiment and the service provision processing that is implemented by the service provision system1are described. According to the present example embodiment, biometric authentication is implemented for identity verification purposes, at the time that a user receives provision of an item from a business operator. If the user is authenticated by the biometric authentication unit110, it becomes possible for the user to use the item. Also, by implementing biometric authentication on the user at the time that he or she receives provision of the item, the user who is using the service can be specified. As a result, it is possible to prevent problems such as rental items being returned in a damaged state and items being used by another person impersonating the user. In this way, the service provision system1makes it possible for service providers and users to transact reliably.

Note that a program for executing the service provision processing in the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment need only be a program that causes a computer to execute processing as the functional units shown inFIG.1orFIG.3. By installing and executing this program on a computer, the management apparatus100and the service provision apparatus200of the service provision system1and the service provision method according to the present example embodiment can be realized. In this case, the processor of the computer functions and performs processing as the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120and the delivery management unit130of the management apparatus100. Alternatively, the processor of the computer functions and performs processing as the service acceptance unit210of the service provision apparatus200.

Also, in the present example embodiment, the storage unit140may be realized by storing data files constituting the same in a storage device such as a hard disk provided in the computer, or may be realized by a storage device of another computer. Examples of the computer include a smartphone and a tablet terminal device, in addition to a general-purpose PC.

Furthermore, the program according to the present example embodiment may be executed by a computer system constructed from a plurality of computers. In this case the computers may, for example, respectively function as one of the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, the delivery management unit130and the payment processing unit170of the management apparatus100and the service acceptance unit210of the service provision apparatus200.

2. Second Example Embodiment

Next, a schematic configuration of a service provision system1according to a second example embodiment of the invention will be described based onFIG.5.FIG.5is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the service provision system1according to the second example embodiment of the invention. The service provision system1according to the present example embodiment differs in having a user information registration unit150and a recommendation unit160, in comparison to the service provision system1according to the first example embodiment shown inFIG.3. Hereinafter, the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first example embodiment, and detailed description of constituent elements similar to the first example embodiment and functions thereof will be omitted.

As shown inFIG.5, the service provision system1has a management apparatus100and a service provision apparatus200, similarly to the first example embodiment. The management apparatus100and the service provision apparatus200are connected to a terminal device300via a network5.

The management apparatus100has a biometric authentication unit110, a service request unit120, a delivery management unit130, a storage unit140, a user information registration unit150, and a recommendation unit160. Since the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, the delivery management unit130and the storage unit140function similarly to the first example embodiment, description thereof will be omitted here.

The user information registration unit150receives user information relating to a user and records the user information in association with registered biometric information of the user that is recorded in the storage unit140. As described above, the user information includes information such as the user's interests, preferences and physique, for example, in addition to user attributes such as the user's name, address or place of stay and e-mail address. The user is able to input user information at any time using the terminal device300, for example. The user information input by the user from the terminal device300is transmitted to the management apparatus100. The user information registration unit150records the received user information in the storage unit140in association with the registered biometric information of the user.

The recommendation unit160notifies items available for use by the user to the terminal device300, based on the user information recorded in the storage unit140. The recommendation unit160infers items that the user will use at his or her travel destination based on the user information, from among the items available for provision by the subscription service that is used by the user, for example. The recommendation unit160then sends information relating to the inferred items (hereinafter also referred to as “recommendation information”) to the user via the terminal device300. The user is able to request provision of items, with reference to the recommendation information sent to the terminal device300.

In this way, the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment provides users with information relating to items that depend on the user. Users can thereby be encouraged to make full use of the subscription service within the available range of the service, and the level of satisfaction that users have with the service can be increased. Processing by the recommendation unit160will be described in detail later.

The service provision apparatus200has a service acceptance unit210that accepts requests from the management apparatus100for provision of items to biometrically authenticated users, similarly to the first example embodiment. Upon accepting a request for provision of an item, the service acceptance unit210requests the item provision operator to secure the item and requests the logistics operator to deliver the item, for example.

[2-2. Service Provision Processing (Recommendation Information Distribution)]

Hereinafter, processing from when a user who uses the subscription service shown inFIG.2receives recommendation information sent from the service provision system1until when the user requests an item will be described based onFIG.6.FIG.6is a sequence diagram showing processing for sending recommendation information by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment.

First, in order to use the service, the user acquires biometric information using the terminal device300, and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100(S201). In the case where identity verification is performed by facial recognition, for example, the terminal device300acquires a facial image using the image capturing apparatus305and transmits the captured facial image to the management apparatus100. The image capturing apparatus305may be a camera provided in the terminal device300. Alternatively, the image capturing apparatus305may be a separate device from the terminal device300and may be capable of transmitting the acquired image to the terminal device300.

The management apparatus100, having received the biometric information from the terminal device300, uses the biometric authentication unit110to perform identity verification through comparison with the biometric information recorded in advance in the storage unit140(S203). The biometric authentication unit110transmits the authentication result to the terminal device300(S205).

The terminal device300notifies the authentication result received in step S205to the user. If the user was not authenticated, the terminal device300acquires biometric information of the user again and executes processing from step S201. On the other hand, if the user was authenticated, it becomes possible for the user to use the service. In this way, the processing of steps S201to5205may be performed similarly to the processing of steps S101to5105shown inFIG.4.

The user, having become able to use the service, inputs user information using the terminal device300. The terminal device300transmits the input user information to the management apparatus100(S207). Upon receiving the user information, the management apparatus100uses the user information registration unit150to record the received user information in the storage unit140in association with the registered biometric information of the user (S209). The user is able to input and update user information at any time.

Next, the recommendation unit160of the management apparatus100sends recommendation information to the terminal device300of the user, based on the user information that is recorded in the storage unit140(S211). The recommendation unit160may send the recommendation information to the terminal device300of the user at a predetermined timing. For example, in the case where a user uses the service for receiving provision of items at his or her travel destination as shown inFIG.2, the recommendation unit160may be configured to send the recommendation information to the terminal device300of the user, before the user departs to his or her destination or while the user is at the destination.

If there is an item that the user wants to use upon viewing the recommendation information, the user selects the item using the terminal device300, and transmits a request for provision of the selected item to the management apparatus100(S213). The management apparatus100, having received the item provision request, transmits the item provision request to the service provision apparatus200(S215). The service provision apparatus200accepts the item provision request (S217). The service provision apparatus200then requests the item provision server400to secure the item and requests the distribution server500to deliver the item, via the network5, such that the item is delivered to the delivery place.

The item requested by the user is thus procured and delivered to the delivery place by a designated date-time. The processing of steps S213to S217may be performed similarly to the processing of steps S107to S111shown inFIG.4. At the time that the user receives the items, the processing of steps S115to S125shown inFIG.4may be performed, as described in the first example embodiment.

An example of recommendation information distribution processing by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment will be described based onFIG.7.FIG.7is an illustrative diagram showing an example of when the recommendation information distribution processing by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment is implemented in the subscription service for providing items shown inFIG.2.

When receiving provision of items by the subscription service, the user inputs user information using the terminal device300. The upper part ofFIG.7shows an example of a user information registration screen310that is displayed on a display unit302of the terminal device300. User attributes such as the user's facial image and name, out of the user information registered in advance in the storage unit140, may be displayed on the user information registration screen310. Furthermore, in the case where the name of the hotel serving as the place of stay is registered as user information, the place of stay may also be displayed on the user information registration screen310.

The user is able to register user information that has not yet been registered through the user information registration screen310at a convenient time for the user before or during his or her trip. For example, the user may input personal data such as his or her interests, preferences and physique as user information. On the user information registration screen310shown in the upper part ofFIG.7, the user's fashion taste indicating his or her taste in clothing, the user's skin type and the like are registered as personal data312. The personal data312may be information entered by the user using the terminal device300, or may be information selected from a pulldown menu presented on the user information registration screen310.

The information input to the user information registration screen310is transmitted to the management apparatus100, due to registration processing being performed by the user pressing a button on the terminal device300, for example. The management apparatus100records the input user information in the storage unit140in association with the registered biometric information of the user.

Next, the recommendation unit160of the management apparatus100sends information indicating items available for use by the user through the subscription service to the terminal device300as recommendation information, based on the user information registered in advance. The middle part ofFIG.7shows an example of a recommendation information display screen320for displaying recommendation information321. On the recommendation information display screen320, cosmetics, clothing and a bag are displayed as items recommended to the user. The recommendation unit160is able to determine the clothing and bag to recommend based on the fashion taste in the personal data312and determine the cosmetics to recommend based on the skin type in the personal data312. Note that the items to recommend may be determined using a model representing the relationship between the personal data of the item user or item purchaser and items generated by machine learning, for example.

The user is able to request provision of items, with reference to the recommendation information sent to the terminal device300. The lower part ofFIG.7shows an example of an item provision request screen330. Order information331on the item provision request screen330shown in the lower part ofFIG.7includes the cosmetics and bag recommended by the recommendation information321. The items that are included in the recommendation information321may be selectable on the recommendation information display screen320as items whose provision is requested by the user. Also, a configuration may be adopted in which the user is able to designate a delivery place333of the items on the item provision request screen330.

Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which the user is able to designate the date-time of receipt of the items on the item provision request screen330.

Upon inputting information required for the item provision request, such as the order information331and the delivery place333, using the terminal device300, the user transmits the item provision request to the management apparatus100. The management apparatus100, having received the item provision request, transmits the item provision request to the service provision apparatus200. Upon receiving the item provision request, the service provision apparatus200requests the item provision server400to secure the items and requests the distribution server500to deliver the items, via the network5, such that the items are delivered to the delivery place. The items requested by the user are thus procured and delivered to the delivery place by the designated date-time.

In this way, the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment provides users with information relating to items that depend on the user. Users can thereby be encouraged to make full use of the subscription service within the available range of the service, and the level of satisfaction that users have with the service can be increased.

Also, as another specific example, the recommendation unit160, in the case where a schedule at the travel destination is registered as user information, may send the recommendation information according to the schedule. In the case where tour reservation information is registered as user information, the recommendation unit160may infer the user's schedule at the travel destination from the tour reservation information and send recommendation information according to the inferred schedule.

For example, assume that climbing in the mountains at the travel destination is registered as user information. Or that it is inferred that the user will go climbing in the mountains at the travel destination from tour reservation information registered as user information. In this case, the recommendation unit160may send information, to the terminal device300, relating to items that will be needed for climbing in the mountains including outdoor gear such as shoes and clothing and consumables such as food and drink that that can be provided, before the user goes climbing (e.g., before departing for the travel destination or before departing to climb in the mountains).

In this way, by sending recommendation information that depends on the user's schedule, users are able to know that items that will be needed at their travel destination are available from the subscription service. Then, by receiving provision of items, users are able to travel lightly and relax at their destination, without having to get items that they will need at their destination ready beforehand or carry large pieces of luggage at their destination.

Hereinabove, the configuration of the service provision system1according to the second example embodiment and the service provision processing that is implemented by the service provision system1are described. According to the present example embodiment, information relating items that depend on the user is provided to users by the recommendation unit160. Users can thereby be encouraged to make full use of the subscription service within the available range of the service, and the level of satisfaction that users have with the service can be increased.

Also, given that the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment has functional units that are provided in the first example embodiment, biometric authentication is implemented for identity verification purposes, at the time that a user receives provision of items from a business operator, similarly to the first example embodiment. If the user is authenticated by the biometric authentication unit110, it becomes possible for the user to use the items. Also, by implementing biometric authentication on the user at the time that he or she receives provision of the items, the user who is using the service can be specified. As a result, it is possible to prevent problems such as rental items being returned in a damaged state and items being used by another person impersonating the user. In this way, the service provision system1makes it possible for service providers and users to transact reliably.

Note that a program for executing the service provision processing in the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment need only be a program that causes a computer to execute processing as the functional units shown inFIG.5. By installing and executing this program on a computer, the management apparatus100and the service provision apparatus200of the service provision system1and the service provision method according to the present example embodiment can be realized. In this case, the processor of the computer functions and performs processing as the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, the delivery management unit130, the user information registration unit150and the recommendation unit160of the management apparatus100. Alternatively, the processor of the computer functions and performs processing as the service acceptance unit210of the service provision apparatus200.

Also, in the present example embodiment, the storage unit140may be realized by storing data files constituting the same in a storage device such as a hard disk provided in the computer, or may be realized by a storage device of another computer. Examples of the computer include a smartphone and a tablet terminal device, in addition to a general-purpose PC.

Furthermore, the program according to the present example embodiment may be executed by a computer system constructed from a plurality of computers. In this case the computers may, for example, respectively function as one of the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, the delivery management unit130, the user information registration unit150and the recommendation unit160of the management apparatus100and the service acceptance unit210of the service provision apparatus200.

3. Third Example Embodiment

Next, a schematic configuration of a service provision system1according to a third example embodiment of the invention will be described based onFIG.8.FIG.8is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the service provision system1according to the third example embodiment of the invention. The service provision system1according to the present example embodiment differs in having a payment processing unit170, in comparison to the service provision system1according to the first example embodiment shown inFIG.3. Hereinafter, the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first example embodiment, and a detailed description of constituent elements similar to the first example embodiment and functions thereof will be omitted.

As shown inFIG.8, the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment has a management apparatus100and a service provision apparatus200, similarly to the first example embodiment. The management apparatus100and the service provision apparatus200are connected to a terminal device300via a network5.

The management apparatus100has a biometric authentication unit110, a service request unit120, a delivery management unit130, a storage unit140and a payment processing unit170. Since the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, the delivery management unit130and the storage unit140function similarly to the first example embodiment, description thereof will be omitted here.

The payment processing unit170performs payment processing. In the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment, payment based on biometric information is possible, such that the user is able to purchase items efficiently. In order to make a payment based on biometric information, the user registers payment method information as user information. The payment method information is information for performing cashless payment, such as credit card information and electronic payment service information, for example. By associating the payment method information with the registered biometric information, payment by biometric authentication becomes possible.

When a user transmits biometric information to the management apparatus100at the time of purchasing an item, the management apparatus100uses the biometric authentication unit110to perform biometric authentication of the user. If the user is authenticated, the payment processing unit170then executes payment processing based on the registered payment method information. Once payment is completed, the service request unit120transmits payment completion information to the service provision apparatus200.

The service provision apparatus200has a service acceptance unit210that accepts requests for provision of items to biometrically authenticated users from the management apparatus100, similarly to the first example embodiment. In the present example embodiment, the service acceptance unit210arranges delivery of purchased items. When there is a purchase request for an item, the service acceptance unit210confirms with the item provision server400whether the item can be secured, and transmits the confirmation result to the management apparatus100. Also, upon receiving payment completion information, the service acceptance unit210notifies the item provision server400that purchase of the item is completed, and requests the distribution server500to deliver the item.

[3-2. Service Provision Processing (Purchase of Items)]

Hereinafter, processing for a user who uses the subscription service shown inFIG.2to purchase an item using the service provision system1will be described based onFIG.9.FIG.9is a sequence diagram showing processing for purchasing an item by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment. The subscription service shown inFIG.2is a service for fixed period rental of items, but it is also conceivable for users to want to purchase rental items that they like. In view of this, the convenience of the service is enhanced by making it possible to also purchase items in the service provision system1.

First, in order to use the service, the user acquires biometric information using the terminal device300, and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100(S301). In the case where identity verification is performed by facial recognition, for example, the terminal device300acquires a facial image using an image capturing apparatus305and transmits the captured facial image to the management apparatus100. The image capturing apparatus305may be a camera provided in the terminal device300. Alternatively, the image capturing apparatus305may be a separate device from the terminal device300and may be capable of transmitting the acquired image to the terminal device300.

The management apparatus100, having received the biometric information from the terminal device300, uses the biometric authentication unit110to perform identity verification through comparison with the biometric information recorded in advance in the storage unit140(S303). The biometric authentication unit110transmits the authentication result to the terminal device300(S305).

The terminal device300notifies the authentication result received in step S305to the user. If the user was not authenticated, the terminal device300acquires biometric information of the user again and executes processing from step S301. On the other hand, if the user was authenticated, it becomes possible for the user to use the service. In this way, the processing of steps S301to S305may be performed similarly to the processing of steps S101to S105shown inFIG.4.

The user, having become able to use the service, selects an item to be purchased using the terminal device300, and transmits a purchase request for the selected item to the management apparatus100(S307). The item purchase request includes information such as the item to be purchased and the delivery place of the item to be purchased. The service request unit120of the management apparatus100, having received the item purchase request, transmits the item purchase request to the service provision apparatus200(S309). The service provision apparatus200accepts the item purchase request (S311).

The service provision apparatus200confirms with the item providing server400whether the item can be secured. If the item can be secured, the service provision apparatus200notifies the management apparatus100that acceptance of the item purchase is completed (S313). Note that, if the item cannot be secured, the service provision apparatus200notifies the management apparatus100that the item cannot be purchased. The management apparatus100then notifies the terminal device300of the user that the item cannot be purchased by the user. At this time, the management apparatus100may also transmit information, to the terminal device300, relating to alternative items that can be purchased by the user.

The management apparatus100, having received notification that acceptance of the item purchase is completed from the service provision apparatus200, transmits a payment request to the terminal device300of the user from the payment processing unit170(S315). When a payment request is received, the user acquires biometric information using the terminal device300, and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100(S317). Upon receiving the biometric information from the terminal device300, the payment processing unit170of the management apparatus100instructs the biometric authentication unit110to perform comparison with the registered biometric information that is recorded in advance in the storage unit140. The biometric authentication unit110compares the biometric information (S319), and outputs an authentication result to the payment processing unit170.

The payment processing unit170determines whether payment for the item can be made, based on the authentication result of the biometric authentication unit110. If the user was not authenticated, the payment processing unit170transmits notification that the user was not authenticated and a resend request for biometric information to the terminal device300. In this case, the user acquires biometric information of the user again using the terminal device300and executes processing from step S317.

On the other hand, if the user was authenticated, the payment processing unit170executes payment processing based on the payment method information that is recorded in the storage unit140(S321). Once payment is completed, the payment processing unit170then notifies the terminal device300that payment is completed (S323). Also, the service request unit120transmits payment completion information to the service provision apparatus200via the network5(S325). On receiving the payment completion information, the service provision apparatus200notifies the item provision server400that purchase of the item is completed, and requests the logistics server500to deliver the item. The item purchased by the user is thus delivered to the delivery place by the designated date-time (S327).

Note that, at the time that the user receives the item, the processing of steps S115to5125shown inFIG.4may be performed for identity verification purposes, as described in the first example embodiment.

An example of payment processing by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment will be described based onFIG.10.FIG.10is an illustrative diagram showing an example of when payment processing by the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment is implemented in the subscription service for providing items shown inFIG.2. Note that, in the following, it is assumed that the payment method information of the user has already been registered.

In the case of purchasing an item, the user inputs the item to be purchased using the terminal device300, and transmits a purchase request for the input item to the management apparatus100. The upper part ofFIG.10shows an example of an item purchase request screen340. In order information341on the item purchase request screen340shown in the upper part ofFIG.10, cosmetics and bag are displayed as the names of items to be purchased. The number, unit price and the like of the items to be purchased may be displayed in the order information341. Also, a configuration may be adopted in which the user is able to designate a delivery place343of the items on the item purchase request screen340.

Upon inputting information required for the item purchase request, such as the order information341and the delivery place343, using the terminal device300, the user transmits the item purchase request to the management apparatus100. The service request unit120of the management apparatus100, having received the item purchase request, transmits the item purchase request to the service provision apparatus200. The service provision apparatus200accepts the item purchase request and confirms with the item provision server400whether the items can be secured. If the items can be secured, the service provision apparatus200notifies the management apparatus100that acceptance of the item purchase is completed.

The management apparatus100, having received notification from the service provision apparatus200that acceptance of the item purchase is completed, transmits a payment request to the terminal device300of the user from the payment processing unit170. The middle part ofFIG.10shows an example of a payment screen350. On the payment screen350, the items to be purchased and the payment amount are displayed as payment information351. Also, instruction information353instructing the user to transmit biometric information for payment processing purposes may be displayed on the payment screen350.

The user checks the payment information351on the payment screen350, and, if there are no errors in the payment information351, acquires biometric information using the terminal device300, and transmits the acquired biometric information to the management apparatus100. Upon receiving the biometric information from the terminal device300, the management apparatus100performs comparison with the registered biometric information that is recorded in advance in the storage unit140. If the user is authenticated, the management apparatus100then uses the payment processing unit170to execute payment processing based on the payment method information that is recorded in the storage unit140. Once payment is completed, the management apparatus100notifies the terminal device300that payment is completed. The lower part ofFIG.10shows an example of a payment completion notification screen360. Due to the payment completion notification screen360being displayed on the display unit302of the terminal device300, the user is able to comprehend that payment is completed.

Also, once payment is completed, the management apparatus100transmits payment completion information to the service provision apparatus200via the network5. On receiving the payment completion information, the service provision apparatus200notifies the item provision server400that purchase of the items is completed, and requests the logistics server500to deliver the items. The items purchased by the user are thus delivered to the delivery place by the designated date-time.

In this way, the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment enables users to purchase desired items efficiently and is able to provide a highly convenient service.

Hereinabove, the configuration of the service provision system1according to the third example embodiment and the service provision processing that is implemented by the service provision system1are described. According to the present example embodiment, the payment processing unit170, by performing payment processing using biometric authentication, enables users to purchase desired items.

Also, given that the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment has functional units that are provided in the first example embodiment, biometric authentication is implemented for identity verification purposes, at the time that a user receives provision of an item from a business operator, similarly to the first example embodiment. If the user is authenticated by the biometric authentication unit110, it becomes possible for the user to use the item. Also, by implementing biometric authentication on the user at the time that he or she receives provision of an item, the user who is using the service can be specified. As a result, it is possible to prevent problems such as rental items being returned in a damaged state and items being used by another person impersonating the user. In this way, the service provision system1makes it possible for service providers and users to transact reliably.

Furthermore, functions relating to the payment processing by the service provision system1according to the third example embodiment can also be incorporated into the service provision system1according to the second example embodiment.

Note that a program for executing the service provision processing in the service provision system1according to the present example embodiment need only be a program that causes a computer to execute processing as the functional units shown inFIG.8. By installing and executing this program on a computer, the management apparatus100and the service provision apparatus200of the service provision system1and the service provision method according to the present example embodiment can be realized. In this case, the processor of the computer functions and performs processing as the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, the delivery management unit130and the payment processing unit170of the management apparatus100. Alternatively, the processor of the computer functions and performs processing as the service acceptance unit210of the service provision apparatus200.

Also, in the present example embodiment, the storage unit140may be realized by storing data files constituting the same in a storage device such as a hard disk provided in the computer, or may be realized by a storage device of another computer. Examples of the computer include a smartphone and a tablet terminal device, in addition to a general-purpose PC.

Furthermore, the program according to the present example embodiment may be executed by a computer system constructed from a plurality of computers. In this case the computers may, for example, respectively function as one of the biometric authentication unit110, the service request unit120, the delivery management unit130and the payment processing unit170of the management apparatus100and the service acceptance unit210of the service provision apparatus200.

5. Physical Configuration

UsingFIG.11, a description is now given of a computer that realizes the management apparatus100by executing the program according to the present example embodiment.FIG.11is a block diagram illustrating one example of the computer900that realizes the management apparatus100according to a plurality of example embodiment. Note that the service provision apparatus200can also be realized by a computer having the physical configuration shown inFIG.11.

As illustrated inFIG.11, a computer900includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit)901, a main memory902, a storage device903, an input interface904, a display controller905, a data reader/writer906, and a communication interface907. These components are connected in such a manner that they can perform data communication with one another via a bus911.

Also, a computer900may include a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) in addition to the CPU901or in place of the CPU901. In this case, the GPU or the FPGA can execute the program according to the present example embodiment.

The CPU901carries out various types of computation by deploying the program that constituted by a group of codes according to the present example embodiment stored in the storage device903to the main memory902, and executing the deployed each codes in a predetermined order. The main memory902is typically a volatile storage device, such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

Also, the program according to the present example embodiment is provided in a state where it is stored in a computer readable recording medium910. Note that the program according to the present example embodiment may also be distributed over the Internet connected via the communication interface907.

Furthermore, specific examples of the storage device903include a hard disk drive, and also a semiconductor storage device, such as a flash memory. The input interface904mediates data transmission between the CPU901and an input device908, such as a keyboard and a mouse. The display controller905is connected to a display device909, and controls displays on the display device909.

The data reader/writer906mediates data transmission between the CPU901and the recording medium910, and executes readout of the program from the recording medium910, as well as writing of the result of processing in the computer900to the recording medium910. The communication interface907mediates data transmission between the CPU901and another computer.

Also, specific examples of the recording medium910include: a general-purpose semiconductor storage device, such as CF (Compact Flash®) and SD (Secure Digital); a magnetic recording medium, such as Flexible Disk; and an optical recording medium, such as CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory).

Note that the management apparatus100according to the present example embodiment can also be realized by using items of hardware corresponding to respective components, rather than by using the computer with the program installed therein. Furthermore, a part of the management apparatus100may be realized by the program, and the remaining part of the management apparatus100may be realized by hardware.

A part or all of the aforementioned example embodiment can be described as, but is not limited to, the following (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 28).

A service provision system including:

a management apparatus; and

a service provision apparatus,

the management apparatus including:

a biometric authentication unit configured to perform biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device; and

a service request unit configured to request, if the user is authenticated, the service provision apparatus to provide an item to be used by the user, and

the service provision apparatus including:

a service acceptance unit configured to receive the request for provision of the item from the management apparatus, and accepting the request for provision of the item to the user who is biometric ally authenticated.

The service provision system according to Supplementary Note 1, in which the management apparatus includes a delivery management unit configured to manage delivery of the item to the user, and

at a time of the user receiving the item, the management apparatus uses the biometric authentication unit to perform biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user acquired at a delivery place of the item, and, if the user is authenticated, uses the delivery management unit to notify the terminal device that the item is available for pickup.

The service provision system according to Supplementary Note 2,

in which, when the user requests use of a plurality of items, the service request unit of the management apparatus notifies confirmation as to whether the plurality of items are to be received at the same time to the terminal device of the user, and, if a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time is received from the terminal device, notifies the request to the service provision apparatus.

The service provision system according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to 3,

in which the management apparatus includes a user information registration unit configured to accept user information relating to the user, and

the user information registration unit associates the user information of the user transmitted from the terminal device with registered biometric information of the user registered for identity verification purposes.

The service provision system according to Supplementary Note 4,

in which the management apparatus includes a recommendation unit configured to notify an item available for use by the user to the terminal device, based on the user information.

(Supplementary Note 6) The service provision system according to Supplementary Note 4 or 5,

in which the management apparatus includes a payment processing unit configured to perform payment processing,

payment method information is associated as the user information with the registered biometric information, and

the management apparatus uses the biometric authentication unit to perform biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from the terminal device together with a request for purchase of an item by the user, and, if the user is authenticated, uses the payment processing unit to execute the payment processing, based on the payment method information.

The service provision system according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to 6,

in which the service provision apparatus is a device for providing a subscription service.

A service provision method including:

performing biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device;

requesting, if the user is authenticated, provision of an item to be used by the user; and

receiving the request for provision of the item, and accepting the request for provision of the item to the user who is biometrically authenticated.

The service provision method according to Supplementary Note 8,

in which, at a time of the user receiving the item,

performing biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user acquired at a delivery place of the item, and, if the user is authenticated, notifying the terminal device that the item is available for pickup.

The service provision method according to Supplementary Note 9,

in which, when the user requests use of a plurality of items,

notifying confirmation as to whether the plurality of items are to be received at the same time to the terminal device of the user, and, if a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time is received from the terminal device, performing a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time.

The service provision method according to any one of Supplementary Note 8 to 10,

in which associating the user information of the user transmitted from the terminal device with registered biometric information of the user registered for identity verification purposes.

The service provision method according to Supplementary Note 11,

in which notifying an item available for use by the user to the terminal device, based on the user information.

The service provision method according to Supplementary Note 11 or 12,

in which payment method information is associated as the user information with the registered biometric information,

performing biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from the terminal device together with a request for purchase of an item by the user, and, if the user is authenticated, executing payment processing, based on the payment method information.

The service provision method according to any one of Supplementary Note 8 to 13,

in which the service provision method is a device for providing a subscription service.

A management apparatus including:

a biometric authentication unit configured to perform biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device; and

a service request unit configured to request, if the user is authenticated, provision of an item to be used by the user.

The management apparatus according to Supplementary Note 15,

in which the management apparatus includes a delivery management unit configured to manage delivery of the item to the user, and

at a time of the user receiving the item, the management apparatus uses the biometric authentication unit to perform biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user acquired at a delivery place of the item, and, if the user is authenticated, uses the delivery management unit to notify the terminal device that the item is available for pickup.

The management apparatus according to Supplementary Note 16,

in which, when the user requests use of a plurality of items, the service request unit notifies confirmation as to whether the plurality of items are to be received at the same time to the terminal device of the user, and, if a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time is received from the terminal device, performs a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time is received.

The management apparatus according to any one of Supplementary Note 15 to 17,

in which the management apparatus includes a user information registration unit configured to accept user information relating to the user, and

the user information registration unit associates the user information of the user transmitted from the terminal device with registered biometric information of the user registered for identity verification purposes.

The management apparatus according to Supplementary Note 18,

in which the management apparatus includes a recommendation unit configured to notify an item available for use by the user to the terminal device, based on the user information.

The management apparatus according to Supplementary Note 18 or 19,

in which the management apparatus includes a payment processing unit configured to perform payment processing,

payment method information is associated as the user information with the registered biometric information, and

the management apparatus uses the biometric authentication unit to perform biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from the terminal device together with a request for purchase of an item by the user, and, if the user is authenticated, uses the payment processing unit to execute the payment processing, based on the payment method information.

The management apparatus according to any one of Supplementary Note 15 to 20,

in which the management apparatus is a device for providing a subscription service.

A computer-readable recording medium including a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out:

performing biometric authentication of a user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from a terminal device;

requesting, if the user is authenticated, provision of an item to be used by the user; and

receiving the request for provision of the item, and accepting the request for provision of the item to the user who is biometrically authenticated.

The computer-readable recording medium according to Supplementary Note 22, that includes a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out:

in which, at a time of the user receiving the item,

performing biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user acquired at a delivery place of the item, and, if the user is authenticated, notifying the terminal device that the item is available for pickup.

The computer-readable recording medium according to Supplementary Note 23, that includes a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out:

in which, when the user requests use of a plurality of items,

notifying confirmation as to whether the plurality of items are to be received at the same time to the terminal device of the user, and, if a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time is received from the terminal device, performing a request for receipt of the plurality of items at the same time.

The computer-readable recording medium according to any one of Supplementary Note 22 to 24, that includes a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out:

in which associating the user information of the user transmitted from the terminal device with registered biometric information of the user registered for identity verification purposes.

The computer-readable recording medium according to Supplementary Note 25, that includes a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out:

in which notifying an item available for use by the user to the terminal device, based on the user information.

The computer-readable recording medium according to Supplementary Note 25 or 26, that includes a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out:

in which associating payment method information as the user information with the registered biometric information,

performing biometric authentication of the user, based on biometric information of the user transmitted from the terminal device together with a request for purchase of an item by the user, and, if the user is authenticated, executing payment processing, based on the payment method information.

The computer-readable recording medium according to any one of Supplementary Note 22 to 27, that includes a program recorded thereon, the program including instructions that cause a computer to carry out: in which performing a process for providing a subscription service.

Although the invention of the present application has been described above with reference to an example embodiment, the invention is not limited to the example embodiment described above. Various modifications apparent to those skilled in the art can be made to the configurations and details of the invention within the scope of the invention.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described above, according to the invention, it can be allow for reliable transactions between service providers and users. The invention is useful in a system that managing transactions between service providers and users.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

1Service provision system

110Biometric authentication unit

120Service request unit

130Delivery management unit

150User information registration unit

170Payment processing unit

210Service acceptance unit

400Item provision server