Transaction processing system, information processing device, and information processing program

Abstract

To make it possible to apply an electronic receipt service later even if an identifier for the electronic receipt service cannot be obtained in processing for a transaction.SOLUTION: A transaction processing system includes transaction processing means, identifier acquisition means, inquiry means, response means, notification means, collection means, generation means, journal acquisition means, extraction means, and processing means. The collection means collects transaction files. The generation means extracts a transaction which has, different from transactions related to the transaction files collected by the collection means, a second identifier associated with a first identifier acquired by the acquisition means, from among a plurality of transactions included in a journal file that presents specifications of the transactions processed in a predetermined period. The processing means performs processing for allowing the specifications of the transactions extracted by the extraction means to be confirmed by an electronic receipt service.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a transaction processing system, an information processing device, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, so-called electronic receipt services, which enable electronic receipts to be viewed on information terminals such as smartphones, have become widespread. Users of this electronic receipt service can use the service by registering as a user of the electronic receipt service. Also, many stores provide store services such as a point service for the purpose of retaining customers. And users of such store services can use the store service by registering as a user of the store service. When the service providers of the electronic receipt service and the store service are different, each user registration is performed individually. And for the same user, different identifiers are assigned for each service.

[0003] Therefore, by setting in advance the association of the identifiers of each service, it is possible to use both services by presenting either one of the identifiers. As an example, if a member card recording the identifier of a user of a store service is distributed to the user and the identifier read from the member card at the time of a transaction is associated with the identifier for the electronic receipt service, the electronic receipt service is applied using the identifier.

[0004] And in this case, in a transaction management device different from the transaction processing device that reads the identifier from the member card, the association of the identifiers of both services is managed, and the transaction processing device that has acquired the identifier makes an inquiry regarding the identifier to the transaction management device and acquires the identifier for the electronic receipt service associated with it from the transaction management device.

[0005] Therefore, in situations where the above inquiry could not be performed properly due to communication errors or other reasons, the transaction processing unit could not obtain the identifier for the electronic receipt service, and thus the electronic receipt service could not be applied. Given these circumstances, it was desirable to be able to apply the electronic receipt service later, even if it was not possible to obtain an identifier for the electronic receipt service during the transaction processing. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-60421 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a transaction processing system, information processing equipment, and information processing program that enable the application of an electronic receipt service even if it is not possible to obtain an identifier for the electronic receipt service during the processing of a transaction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The transaction processing system of the embodiment comprises a receipt management device that manages transaction details and provides an electronic receipt service that makes the details electronically verifiable, a transaction processing device, and a transaction management device, and includes transaction processing means, identifier acquisition means, inquiry means, response means, notification means, collection means, generation means, journal acquisition means, extraction means, and processing means. The transaction processing means processes transactions. The identifier acquisition means acquires a first identifier of the trader performing the transaction processed by the transaction processing means. The inquiry means is provided in the transaction processing device and queries the transaction management device regarding the first identifier acquired by the identifier acquisition means. The response means, in response to the inquiry by the inquiry means, notifies the transaction processing device of the second identifier if a second identifier is associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry, and notifies the transaction processing device of that fact if a second identifier is not associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry. The notification means, upon confirmation that a response has been received by the response means each time processing by the transaction processing means is completed, notifies the transaction management device of a transaction file representing the details of the completed transaction. The collection means collects the transaction files notified by the notification means. The generation means generates journal files representing the details of multiple transactions processed by the transaction processing means during a predetermined period. The journal acquisition means acquires the journal files generated by the generation means. The extraction means extracts from the multiple transactions included in the journal files acquired by the journal acquisition means transactions that are different from the transactions related to the transaction files collected by the collection means, and for which a second identifier is associated with a first identifier acquired by the identifier acquisition means. The processing means performs processing to make the details of the transactions extracted by the extraction means verifiable through the electronic receipt service. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of a transaction processing system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server in Figure 1. [Figure 3]A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the headquarters server in Figure 1. [Figure 4] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server in Figure 1. [Figure 5] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal in Figure 1. [Figure 6] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the conversion server in Figure 1. [Figure 7] A sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the transaction processing system for a single transaction in the first case. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram representing the main items of data described in a transaction file. [Figure 9] A sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the transaction processing system for a single transaction in the second case. [Figure 10] A sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the transaction processing system for a single transaction in the third case. [Figure 11] A sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the transaction processing system for a single transaction in the fourth case. [Figure 12] A sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the transaction processing system during recovery. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] An example of an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Firstly, in this embodiment, users conducting transactions at a store will register as a user of the store's services and obtain an identifier for the store services (hereinafter referred to as the store member code) when using the store's services. Furthermore, when using the electronic receipt service in relation to store transactions, users will register as a user of the electronic receipt service and obtain an identifier for the electronic receipt service (hereinafter referred to as the receipt member code), and will also set up a link between the receipt member code and the store member code. Note that the store service is, for example, a point service that awards points in proportion to the transaction amount. The store service is not limited to a point service. The providers of the store service and the electronic receipt service are each arbitrary. In this embodiment, the store service and the electronic receipt service will be provided by different providers. The store member code is an example of the first identifier. The receipt member code is an example of the second identifier.

[0011] To use the electronic receipt service, users install dedicated application software compatible with the electronic receipt service, also known as an electronic receipt app, on their information terminal, such as a smartphone or tablet computer. Users then use this electronic receipt app to register for the electronic receipt service as described above. The receipt membership code is displayed, for example, as a barcode or a machine-readable code such as a QR code on the top screen of the information terminal's display device when the electronic receipt app is launched on the information terminal. Hereafter, users who have completed registration for the electronic receipt service will be referred to as electronic receipt members.

[0012] When using the store service, the user installs dedicated application software corresponding to the membership service, i.e., the so-called store membership app, on an information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. Then, the user uses the store membership app to perform the above-mentioned user registration for the store service. The store membership code is displayed in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code on the top screen displayed on the display device of the information terminal when the store membership app is launched on the information terminal. Alternatively, the store membership code may be recorded on a membership card issued by the store to the user upon user registration. The membership card may be a magnetic card with the store membership code magnetically recorded. Alternatively, the membership card may be a contact-type or non-contact-type IC card with the store membership code stored in the memory of an IC (integrated circuit) chip. Also, the membership card may be a card-shaped medium made of paper or plastic, etc., with the store membership code printed in the form of a machine-readable code. Hereinafter, a user who has completed the user registration for the store service is referred to as a store member.

[0013] The business type of the store is not particularly limited. It may be a store that sells goods such as a supermarket, a convenience store, a specialty store, etc., or a store that provides services such as a beauty salon, a rental shop, a bowling alley, etc. In short, any store that conducts a transaction related to the sale of goods or the provision of services with the user who is the subject of the transaction is acceptable. It is assumed that the user may check the details of the transaction after the transaction is completed. If the transaction is the sale and purchase of goods, the details of the transaction are assumed to include the item name and price of the transaction, the total amount of the transaction, the payment information for the total amount, the date and time when the transaction was conducted, etc. Hereinafter, an example of processing the display and sale of goods in the store as the transaction to be processed will be described.

[0014] In this embodiment, an example of a system constructed for use in a multi-store enterprise consisting of a plurality of stores and a head office that oversees those stores will be illustrated. [Explanation of Transaction Processing System 100] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a transaction processing system 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0015] The transaction processing system 100 includes a receipt management system 10, a head office system 20, a store system 30, and a conversion server 40. The receipt management system 10, the head office system 20, and the conversion server 40 are communicable via a communication network NWA, the head office system 20 and the store system 30 are communicable via a communication network NWB, and the head office system 20 and the conversion server 40 are communicable via a communication network NWC, thereby constituting the transaction processing system 100. The communication network NWA, the communication network NWB, and the communication network NWC are, for example, the Internet, an intranet, a VPN (virtual private network), or the like. Note that in FIG. 1, the communication network NWA, the communication network NWB, and the communication network NWC are shown as independent networks, but two or more communication networks may be the same network.

[0016] The receipt management system 10 is an information processing system operated by a provider of an electronic receipt service. The receipt management system 10 includes a receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 performs information processing for causing an information terminal 200 on which an electronic receipt application is installed to display a screen representing transaction details (hereinafter referred to as an electronic receipt screen) and enabling an electronic receipt member to view the details. The receipt server 11 may provide services in an on-premises environment or may provide services in a cloud computing environment.

[0017] The receipt server 11 stores and manages receipt data representing the details of transactions made by electronic receipt members at stores that support the electronic receipt service. The receipt server 11 then transmits data to the information terminal 200 via the communication network NWD in response to a request from the information terminal 200 to display the electronic receipt screen on the information terminal 200. In other words, the receipt server 11 is an example of a receipt management device.

[0018] The communication network NWD is a wide-area network that enables data transfer between the receipt server 11 and the information terminal 200. The communication network NWD can be, for example, the internet, a mobile communication network, a public communication network, etc., either individually or in appropriate combinations.

[0019] The headquarters system 20 is an information processing system built at the headquarters. The headquarters system 20 comprises a headquarters server 21, a member server 22, and communication servers 23, 24, and 25. The headquarters server 21, member server 22, and communication servers 23, 24, and 25 can communicate with each other via the headquarters network 26. The headquarters network 26 is typically a LAN (local area network). Access to the headquarters network 26 by the headquarters server 21, member server 22, and communication servers 23, 24, and 25 may be via wired or wireless access.

[0020] The headquarters server 21 is an information processing device that collects transaction information processed by the store system 30 from the store system 30 and processes that information to comprehensively manage multiple transactions conducted at stores. The headquarters server 21 also provides a service to generate and output data related to the operation of the headquarters as needed. This data related to the operation of the headquarters includes, for example, sales data and loss data for each store. The headquarters server 21 is an example of a transaction management device.

[0021] The member server 22 is an information processing device that performs information processing for managing information of users who have become store members. User information includes, for example, the value of service points that the user possesses. Specifically, the member server 22 accumulates points for each store member, which are awarded to store members based on the amount of the transaction when a store member conducts a transaction with the store member. When a store member requests to exchange points, the member server 22 deducts the requested points from the store member's accumulated points and provides the store member with a benefit equivalent to the deducted points. The benefit may be, for example, a discount on the transaction amount or the issuance of a gift certificate.

[0022] Communication server 23 is an information processing device that performs processing for communication via the communication network NWA. Communication server 24 is an information processing device that performs processing for communication via the communication network NWC. Communication server 25 is an information processing device that performs processing for communication via the communication network NWB.

[0023] The store system 30 is an information processing system built in each store. Although only one store system 30 is shown in Figure 1, it can be built in each of multiple stores. Transactions processed by these multiple store systems 30 are all managed by the headquarters server 21. However, although only one headquarters system 20 is shown in Figure 1, the transaction processing system 100 may include multiple headquarters systems 20. When the transaction processing system 100 includes multiple headquarters systems 20, each of these headquarters systems 20 manages transactions conducted in different groups of stores. In other words, each of the multiple store systems 30 belongs to one of several groups of stores and is associated with the headquarters system 20 corresponding to that group of stores. For example, multiple headquarters systems 20 may be installed in multiple headquarters, each overseeing a different chain. Then, the multiple store systems 30 installed in each of the multiple stores belonging to a single chain are associated with the headquarters system 20 installed at the headquarters of that chain.

[0024] The store system 30 includes a store server 31, multiple POS (point of sales) terminals 32, and a communication server 33. The store server 31, the multiple POS terminals 32, and the communication server 33 can communicate with each other via an in-store network 34 located within the store. The in-store network 34 is typically a LAN. Access to the in-store network 34 by the store server 31, the multiple POS terminals 32, and the communication server 33 may be via wired or wireless access.

[0025] The store server 31 is an information processing device that collects transaction information processed by each POS terminal 32 from the POS terminal 32 and processes that information to generate and output data related to store operations as appropriate. Data related to store operations includes, for example, sales data by product, inventory data, etc.

[0026] POS terminal 32 is an information processing device that performs information processing for transactions made by users in a store. For example, POS terminal 32 performs registration processing to register the products that a user intends to purchase as transaction products. POS terminal 32 also performs accounting processing for calculating the price of the transaction products and settling that price. POS terminal 32 may be a face-to-face POS terminal where both the registration and accounting operations are handled by a store employee, or it may be a self-service POS terminal where both operations are handled by the user. Alternatively, POS terminal 32 may be a POS terminal with a division of labor system where the store employee handles the registration operations and the user handles the accounting operations. POS terminal 32 is an example of a transaction processing device. The communication server 33 is an information processing device that performs processing for communication via the communication network NWB.

[0027] The conversion server 40 is an information processing device that performs information processing to convert data contained in a transaction file representing transaction details into receipt data in a format suitable for processing by the receipt server 11, in response to requests from the headquarters server 21 and the POS terminal 32. The conversion server 40 is an example of a conversion device. The conversion server 40 may provide services in an on-premises environment or in a cloud computing environment.

[0028] [Description of receipt server 11] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 includes a processor 111, a main storage unit 112, an auxiliary storage unit 113, communication units 114 and 115, and a transmission line 116, etc. The processor 111 and the main storage unit 112, auxiliary storage unit 113, communication unit 114, and communication unit 115 can communicate with each other via the transmission line 116.

[0029] By connecting the processor 111, the main storage unit 112, and the auxiliary storage unit 113 via a transmission line 116, a computer is configured to perform information processing to realize the function of a receipt server 11. The processor 111 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 111 performs information processing to control each part in order to realize various functions as a receipt server 11, according to information processing programs such as the operating system and application programs. The processor 111 is, for example, a CPU (central processing unit). Preferably, the processor 111 is a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel. Alternatively, the processor 111 may be configured to perform distributed processing by multiple CPUs.

[0030] The main memory unit 112 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. The main memory unit 112 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 112 stores the above-mentioned information processing program in the read-only memory area. The main memory unit 112 may also store data necessary for the processor 111 to perform processing to control each part in the read-only or rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 112 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 111. The read-only memory area is, for example, ROM (read-only memory). The rewritable memory area is, for example, RAM (random access memory).

[0031] The auxiliary storage unit 113 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. The auxiliary storage unit 113 can utilize, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or various other well-known storage devices. The auxiliary storage unit 113 stores data used by the processor 111 in performing various processes and data created by the processing performed by the processor 111. The auxiliary storage unit 113 may also store the application program described above. In this embodiment, the auxiliary storage unit 113 stores the receipt management program PRA. The receipt management program PRA is an application program that manages electronic receipt data and describes information processing for providing an electronic receipt service using this electronic receipt data.

[0032] A portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage unit 113 is used as an area for storing the receipt file FIA ​​and the linkage table group TGA. The receipt file FIA ​​is a data file containing multiple electronic receipt data registered as targets for the electronic receipt service. The receipt file FIA ​​may be divided into multiple data files. The linkage table group TGA is a collection of linkage tables for each of the multiple store services. The linkage tables are data tables for managing the association between store member codes and receipt member codes in the corresponding store service. In other words, the linkage tables describe the relationship between the linked store member codes and the receipt member codes associated with these store member codes. If the transaction processing system 100 includes multiple headquarters systems 20, then some or all of the operators of these multiple headquarters systems 20 may provide different store services. In such a situation where multiple store services are provided for the transaction processing system 100, multiple linkage tables are prepared for each store service, and these multiple linkage tables are included in the linkage table group TGA.

[0033] The communication unit 114 performs communication processing for data communication via the communication network NWA. As the communication unit 114, a well-known communication device compliant with the communication method of the communication network NWA can be used. The communication unit 115 performs communication processing for data communication via the communication network NWD. As the communication unit 115, a well-known communication device compliant with the communication method of the communication network NWA can be used. The transmission line 116 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc., and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected parts.

[0034] Now, as the basic hardware for the receipt server 11, for example, a general-purpose server device can be used. Generally, the receipt server 11 is transferred with the receipt management program PRA stored in the auxiliary storage unit 113. However, the hardware and the receipt management program PRA may be transferred separately, either without the receipt management program PRA stored in the auxiliary storage unit 113, or with a different version of the same type of application program stored in the auxiliary storage unit 113. Furthermore, the receipt server 11 may be configured by writing the receipt management program PRA to the auxiliary storage unit 113 in response to an operation by any worker. The receipt management program PRA can be transferred by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network.

[0035] [Description of Headquarters Server 21] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the headquarters server 21. The headquarters server 21 includes a processor 211, a main memory unit 212, an auxiliary memory unit 213, a communication unit 214, and a transmission line 215, etc. The processor 211 can communicate with the main memory unit 212, the auxiliary memory unit 213, and the communication unit 214 via the transmission line 215.

[0036] The general functions of the processor 211, main storage unit 212, auxiliary storage unit 213, and transmission line 215 are equivalent to those of the processor 111, main storage unit 112, auxiliary storage unit 113, and transmission line 116, so their explanation will be omitted. However, the auxiliary storage unit 213 stores the transaction management program PRB instead of the receipt management program PRA. The transaction management program PRB is an application program that describes the information processing procedures for managing transactions processed by the store system 30 installed in stores included in the group of stores subject to overall management. As a result, the computer configured by connecting the processor 211, main storage unit 212, and auxiliary storage unit 213 with the transmission line 215 performs information processing for managing transactions processed by the store system 30.

[0037] Furthermore, a portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage unit 213 is used as an area for storing the transaction file group FGA instead of the receipt file FIA ​​and the linkage table group TGA. The transaction file group FGA represents the details of the transactions to be managed and is an aggregator of transaction files sent from the POS terminal 32 after each transaction is completed; it is a collection of multiple transaction files. The communication unit 214 performs communication processing for data communication via the headquarters network 26. The communication unit 214 can be a well-known communication device that conforms to the communication method of the headquarters network 26.

[0038] Now, as the basic hardware for the headquarters server 21, for example, a general-purpose server device can be used. Generally, the transfer of the headquarters server 21 is carried out with the transaction management program PRB stored in the auxiliary storage unit 213. However, the hardware and the transaction management program PRB may be transferred separately, either without the transaction management program PRB stored in the auxiliary storage unit 213, or with a different version of the same type of application program stored in the auxiliary storage unit 213. Furthermore, the headquarters server 21 may be configured by writing the transaction management program PRB to the auxiliary storage unit 213 in response to an operation by any worker. The transfer of the transaction management program PRB can be carried out by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network.

[0039] [Explanation of Member Server 22] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server 22. The member server 22 includes a processor 221, a main storage unit 222, an auxiliary storage unit 223, a communication unit 224, and a transmission line 225, etc. The processor 221 can communicate with the main storage unit 222, the auxiliary storage unit 223, and the communication unit 224 via the transmission line 225.

[0040] The general functions of the processor 221, main memory unit 222, auxiliary memory unit 223, communication unit 224, and transmission line 225 are equivalent to those of the processor 111, main memory unit 112, auxiliary memory unit 113, communication unit 214, and transmission line 116, so their explanation will be omitted. However, the auxiliary memory unit 223 stores the member management program PRC instead of the receipt management program PRA. The member management program PRC is an application program that describes the information processing procedures for managing store members related to store services provided by the operator of the headquarters system 20 to which the member server 22 belongs. As a result, the computer configured by connecting the processor 221, main memory unit 222, and auxiliary memory unit 223 via the transmission line 225 performs information processing for managing store members.

[0041] Furthermore, a portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage unit 223 is used to store the member database DBA and the linkage table TAA, instead of the receipt file FIA ​​and the linkage table group TGA. The member database DBA is a collection of multiple data records associated with each store member to be managed. The data records in the member database DBA contain various information about the associated store member, such as the store member code, personal information, or information regarding the usage status of store services. The linkage table TAA is a copy of the linkage table related to store services provided by the operator of the headquarters system 20 to which the member server 22 belongs, which is included in the aforementioned linkage table group TGA. Thus, the auxiliary storage unit 223 is an example of a storage device that stores the store member code as a first identifier and the receipt member code as a second identifier that is pre-configured to be linked to this store member code, in association with each other.

[0042] Now, as the basic hardware for the member server 22, for example, a general-purpose server device can be used. Generally, the transfer of the member server 22 is carried out with the member management program PRC stored in the auxiliary storage unit 223. However, the hardware and the member management program PRC may be transferred separately, either without the member management program PRC stored in the auxiliary storage unit 223, or with a different version of the same type of application program stored in the auxiliary storage unit 223. Furthermore, the member server 22 may be configured by writing the member management program PRC to the auxiliary storage unit 223 in response to an operation by any worker. The transfer of the member management program PRC can be carried out by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network.

[0043] [Description of POS terminal 32] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 32. The POS terminal 32 includes a processor 321, a main memory unit 322, an auxiliary memory unit 323, a clock 324, a keyboard 325, a display 326, a scanner 327, a printer 328, a card reader 329, a change dispenser 3210, a communication unit 3211, and a transmission line 3212, etc. The processor 321 can communicate with the main memory unit 322, the auxiliary memory unit 323, the clock 324, the keyboard 325, the display 326, the scanner 327, the printer 328, the card reader 329, the change dispenser 3210, and the communication unit 3211 via the transmission line 3212.

[0044] The general functions of the processor 321, main memory unit 322, auxiliary memory unit 323, and transmission line 3212 are equivalent to those of the processor 111, main memory unit 112, auxiliary memory unit 113, and transmission line 116, so their explanation will be omitted. However, the auxiliary memory unit 323 stores the transaction processing program PRD instead of the receipt management program PRA. The transaction processing program PRD is an application program that describes the information processing procedures for registration and accounting. As a result, the computer configured by connecting the processor 321, main memory unit 322, and auxiliary memory unit 323 with the transmission line 3212 performs information processing for transaction processing.

[0045] Furthermore, a portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage unit 323 is used to store transaction data DAA and journal file FIB, instead of receipt file FIA ​​and linked table group TGA. Transaction data DAA represents information such as a list of registered transaction products for the transaction being processed. Journal file FIB represents the details of all transactions processed during a predetermined period. Transaction data DAA is generated by the processor 321 for each transaction and written to the auxiliary storage unit 323. Journal file FIB is generated by the processor 321 for the first transaction of the above period and written to the auxiliary storage unit 323. Journal file FIB is then updated for the second and subsequent transactions of the above period. The above period may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the creator of the transaction processing program PRD or the administrator of the POS terminal 32. In the following, the above period will be defined as one business day of the store.

[0046] The POS terminal 32 may also be equipped with other devices, such as a touch panel or a cashless payment terminal. The clock 324 continuously performs timekeeping operations and outputs date and time information representing the date and time. The keyboard 325 is equipped with multiple keys for inputting various specifications made by the operator, such as specifying the products to be registered as transaction items or specifying the payment method to be applied, in response to the operator's input. As the keyboard 325, an existing input device, such as that found in other existing POS terminals, can be used.

[0047] The display 326 displays various screens, such as a list showing the names and prices of registered trading products, or various information to be presented to the operator, such as the amount to be settled. An existing display device, such as a liquid crystal display device, can be used as the display 326.

[0048] The scanner 327 reads machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. As the scanner 327, existing reading devices such as reflective devices that utilize the reflection of infrared or laser light, or devices that perform image processing on images captured by a camera can be used.

[0049] The printer 328 generates printed materials such as paper receipts by printing various images, such as receipt images showing transaction details, onto receipt paper. The printer 328 can utilize existing printing devices of various types, including thermal, dot matrix, and inkjet methods. The card reader 329 reads the data recorded on the card medium. Various existing reading devices, such as magnetic, contact, proximity wireless communication, and camera-based systems, can be used as the card reader 329.

[0050] The change dispenser 3210 handles cash deposits and withdrawals. The change dispenser 3210 can be an existing cash deposit / withdrawal device, such as one that takes in coins inserted by the operator and stores them in an internal storage compartment, and then dispenses the coins to be paid out to the operator from the storage compartment to the outside. The communication unit 3211 performs communication processing for data communication via the in-store network 34. As the communication unit 3211, a well-known communication device compliant with the communication method of the in-store network 34 can be used.

[0051] The basic hardware of the POS terminal 32 can be the same as that of another existing POS terminal, for example. And the transfer of the POS terminal 32 is generally done by the auxiliary storage unit 323. The transaction processing program PRD is stored in the system. However, the transaction processing program PRD may be transferred separately from hardware in which the transaction processing program PRD is not stored in the auxiliary storage unit 323, or from hardware in which a different version of the same type of application program is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 323. The POS terminal 32 may then be configured by writing the transaction processing program PRD to the auxiliary storage unit 323 in response to an operation by any worker. The transfer of the transaction processing program PRD can be done by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network.

[0052] [Description of Conversion Server 40] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the conversion server 40. The conversion server 40 includes a processor 401, a main memory unit 402, an auxiliary memory unit 403, communication units 404 and 405, and a transmission line 406, etc. The processor 401 can communicate with the main memory unit 402, the auxiliary memory unit 403, and the communication units 404 and 405 via the transmission line 406.

[0053] The general functions of the processor 401, main memory unit 402, auxiliary memory unit 403, communication unit 404, and transmission line 406 are equivalent to those of the processor 111, main memory unit 112, auxiliary memory unit 113, communication unit 114, and transmission line 116, so their explanation will be omitted. However, the auxiliary memory unit 403 stores the conversion processing program PRE instead of the receipt management program PRA. The conversion processing program PRE is an application program that describes the information processing procedure for converting data contained in a transaction file into receipt data. As a result, the computer configured by connecting the processor 401, main memory unit 402, and auxiliary memory unit 403 with the transmission line 406 performs the information processing for the above conversion. The communication unit 405 performs communication processing for data communication via the communication network NWC. A well-known communication device compliant with the communication method of the communication network NWC can be used as the communication unit 405.

[0054] [Operation Description of Transaction Processing System 100] The operation of the transaction processing system 100 will be explained below in several cases. In addition, there may be situations where communication between the headquarters system 20 and the store system 30 cannot be performed normally due to circumstances such as a failure in the communication network NWB. This state is referred to as the offline state, and the state in which such communication can be performed normally is referred to as the online state.

[0055] (Case 1) The first case is when a customer processes a transaction online for which they wish to apply the electronic receipt service. In this first case, the customer has already registered for both the store service and the electronic receipt service, and has also linked their store membership code with their receipt membership code.

[0056] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the transaction processing system 100 for a single transaction in the first case. Prior to the start of transaction processing at the POS terminal 32, the customer, who is the transactional party, presents their membership card to the card reader 329 so that the store membership code recorded on the membership card can be read. This action of having the store membership code recorded on the membership card read by the card reader 329 may be performed by the customer or by the store clerk who receives the membership card from the customer. In response, the card reader 329 reads the store membership code from the membership card.

[0057] Once the store member code is read by the card reader 329, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 301 in the information processing based on the transaction processing program PRD. As ACT301, processor 321 obtains the store member code from card reader 329. Processor 321 then stores the obtained store member code in main storage unit 322 or auxiliary storage unit 323. Thus, by having processor 321 execute information processing based on the transaction processing program PRD, the computer with processor 321 as its central component functions as an identifier acquisition means.

[0058] As ACT302, processor 321 queries member server 22 for the acquired store member code. For example, processor 321 sends query data in a predetermined form, including the store member code, from communication unit 3211 to member server 22 via the in-store network 34. This query data is transmitted to member server 22 via the in-store network 34, communication server 33, communication network NWB, communication server 25, and headquarters network 26, and is received by communication unit 224. Thus, by processor 321 executing information processing based on the transaction processing program PRD, the computer with processor 321 as its central component functions as a query means.

[0059] When the inquiry data is received by the communication unit 224, the processor 221 proceeds to ACT221 in the information processing based on the member management program PRC. As ACT221, processor 221 searches for the store member code included in the query data in the linkage table TAA. In this first case, since the linking of the store member code and the receipt member code has already been set up, processor 221 can find the corresponding store member code in the linkage table TAA. Then, processor 221 reads the receipt member code that is written in the linkage table TAA in association with the store member code.

[0060] As ACT222, processor 221 responds to the above inquiry. For example, processor 221 sends response data in a predetermined form, including the receipt member code read as described above, from communication unit 224 to headquarters network 26 for the requesting POS terminal 32. This response data is transmitted to the requesting POS terminal 32 via headquarters network 26, communication server 25, communication network NWB, communication server 33 and store network 34, and is received by communication unit 3211. Once the response data is received by communication unit 3211, processor 321 proceeds to ACT303. As ACT303, the processor 321 stores the receipt member code included in the response data in the main storage unit 322 or the auxiliary storage unit 323.

[0061] The operator of the POS terminal 32 performs a predetermined operation to specify one of the items to be traded. This operation may include, for example, scanning the barcode displayed on the item with the scanner 327. Another operation may be pressing a key on the keyboard 325 that is associated with the item in question. Yet another operation may be entering a sequence of numbers on the keyboard 325 that represents the item's product code. Once this operation is performed, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 304.

[0062] As ACT304, processor 321 performs the registration process. For example, processor 321 generates transaction data DAA containing the product codes of the specified products as described above and stores it in auxiliary storage unit 323. Then processor 321 adds the product codes of the products specified thereafter to the transaction data. Then processor 321 proceeds to ACT305 when the start of accounting is specified, for example, by a predetermined operation on keyboard 325. Note that the specific processing in the registration process may be the same as the processing performed in another existing POS terminal. Also, if processor 321 did not obtain the store member code in ACT301, it may obtain the store member code in the same way as in ACT301 during the execution of this registration process.

[0063] As ACT305, processor 321 calculates the price of all transaction items registered through the registration process and performs accounting processing to settle the payment. The specific processing in this accounting process may be the same as, for example, the processing performed in another existing POS terminal. Thus, by having the processor 321 perform information processing based on the transaction processing program PRD, the computer with the processor 321 as its central component functions as a transaction processing means.

[0064] As ACT306, processor 321 updates the journal file FIB. If the transaction being processed is the first transaction of a business day, processor 321 generates a new journal file FIB representing the details of the transaction being processed. If the transaction being processed is the second or subsequent transaction of a business day, processor 321 updates the journal file FIB that has already been generated to further represent the details of the transaction being processed. Thus, by executing information processing based on the transaction processing program PRD, processor 321 functions as a generation means, with processor 321 as its central component.

[0065] Processor 321 includes at least the transaction number, transaction date and time, store code, and register number in the transaction details displayed in the journal file FIB. If the store member code is available, processor 321 also includes this store member code in the transaction details displayed in the journal file FIB.

[0066] The transaction number is an identifier generated for each transaction to individually identify the transaction processed by the POS terminal 32. For example, the processor 321 includes the transaction number in the journal file FIB, using an identifier determined according to predetermined rules to avoid duplication with identifiers of other processed transactions.

[0067] The transaction date and time is the date and time at which the transaction in question was processed. For example, the transaction date and time may represent the date and time at which the settlement of the transaction was completed. In other words, for example, when the settlement of the transaction in question is completed, the processor 321 obtains the date and time data output by the clock 324 and includes this date and time data as the transaction date and time data in the journal file FIB. Note that the transaction date and time can be any other arbitrary time, such as the time when the transaction processing began.

[0068] The store code is an identifier for the store where the POS terminal 32 is installed. In other words, the processor 321 includes, for example, an identifier that has been predetermined to distinguish the store where its POS terminal 32 is installed from other stores, and which is pre-stored, for example in the auxiliary storage unit 323, as the store code in the journal file FIB.

[0069] The register number is the identifier of the POS terminal 32. In other words, the processor 321 includes, for example, an identifier that is predetermined to distinguish the POS terminal 32 it is equipped with from other POS terminals 32 installed in the same store, and which is pre-stored, for example, in the auxiliary storage unit 323, as the register number in the journal file FIB.

[0070] As ACT307, processor 321 notifies headquarters server 21 of the completion of the transaction. For example, processor 321 generates a transaction file that shows the details of this transaction only, and sends notification data in a predetermined form, including this transaction file, from communication unit 3211 to the in-store network 34 addressed to headquarters server 21. Thus, by having processor 321 execute information processing based on the transaction processing program PRD, the computer with processor 321 as its central component functions as a notification means.

[0071] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram representing the main items of data described in a transaction file. As illustrated, a transaction file contains data for each transaction, identified by the following fields: transaction number, transaction date and time, store code, register number, responsible person information, purchase data, subtotal amount, tax data, total data, payment data, and store member code. For example, a transaction file is a data file that describes the data for each of these fields in CSV (comma-separated values) format. The transaction number, transaction date and time, store code, and register number are the same as the data included in the journal file FIB.

[0072] Regarding the responsible person information, it describes the information of the store employee who operated the POS terminal 32 that processed the transaction in question. For example, the processor 321 receives an operation for the store employee to sign in as the operator and identifies the employee's employee code and name as identifiers. The processor 321 then includes the identified employee code and name as responsible person information in the transaction file.

[0073] Regarding purchase data, data representing the product code, product name, unit price, and quantity for each item traded in the target transaction is described. In other words, the processor 321 generates data representing each of the relevant items based on the results of the registration process for the target transaction, and includes this data as purchase data in the transaction file.

[0074] Regarding the subtotal amount, it describes the pre-tax total amount for all transaction items in the transaction in question. In other words, processor 321 includes data representing the relevant amount as the subtotal amount in the transaction file, for example, based on the results of the accounting treatment for the transaction in question.

[0075] Regarding tax data, it describes the data related to the taxes imposed on the transaction in question. In other words, the processor 321 generates data representing the taxable amount, tax rate, and tax amount for each tax category based on the results of the accounting treatment for the transaction in question, and includes this data as tax data in the transaction file.

[0076] The total data describes the total number of items and total amount for all trading products in the target transaction. In other words, the processor 321 counts the number of all trading products registered through the registration process for the target transaction to determine the total number of items, and calculates the total amount as the sum of the unit prices of those trading products. This data representing the total number of items and total amount is then included in the transaction file as total data.

[0077] Regarding payment data, the data describes the payment method applied to the settlement and the details of the settlement. In other words, for example, based on the accounting results for the transaction in question, if, for example, 1,000 yen was paid in cash for a total amount of 500 yen and 500 yen was given as change, the processor 321 will include data representing "Payment method: Cash, Payment amount: 1,000 yen, Change: 500 yen" as payment data in the transaction file.

[0078] Regarding the store member code, a store member code is described to identify the customer for the target transaction. In other words, the processor 321 includes the store member code obtained by ACT301 in Figure 7, for example, in the transaction file. Note that the items in the transaction file are not limited to those shown in Figure 8. Other items may be added, and some of the items shown in Figure 8 may be omitted.

[0079] This notification data is transmitted to the headquarters server 21 via the in-store network 34, communication server 33, communication network NWB, communication server 25, and headquarters network 26, and is received by the communication unit 214. When the communication unit 214 receives the notification data, the processor 211 proceeds to ACT 211.

[0080] As ACT211, processor 211 adds the transaction files contained in the notification data to the transaction file group FGA. By sequentially adding the transaction files contained in the notification data transmitted after each transaction is completed to the transaction file group FGA, transaction files are collected. Thus, by having processor 211 perform information processing based on the transaction management program PRB, the computer with processor 211 as its central component functions as a collection means.

[0081] In some cases, the system may be offline when a transaction completion notification is sent, and the notification data may not be transmitted to the headquarters server 21. Therefore, the processor 321 checks whether the notification data has been received by the headquarters server 21, and if it is not confirmed that it has been received successfully, it resends the notification data. This process may be the same as that performed in other existing POS systems, and its illustration and detailed explanation are omitted.

[0082] Now, at the POS terminal 32, the processor 321 notifies the completion of the transaction as ACT307, and then proceeds to ACT308. As ACT308, processor 321 requests conversion of the transaction file from conversion server 40. For example, processor 321 causes communication unit 3211 to send request data in a predetermined form, including the transaction file and the receipt member code stored in ACT303, to conversion server 40 via in-store network 34. This request data is transmitted to conversion server 40 via in-store network 34, communication server 33, communication network NWB, communication server 25, headquarters network 26, communication server 24, and communication network NWC, and is received by communication unit 405. When the request data is received by communication unit 405, processor 401 proceeds to ACT401 in information processing based on conversion processing program PRE.

[0083] As ACT401, processor 401 performs conversion processing to convert the transaction file into receipt data. For example, processor 401 replaces the data contained in the transaction file with data suitable for display on the electronic receipt screen. For example, processor 401 replaces the data written in the transaction file regarding the store code with text data representing the store name. Also, processor 401 deletes data contained in the transaction file that is not displayed on the electronic receipt screen. For example, processor 401 deletes the name contained in the responsible person information. Also, processor 401 adds information that is not contained in the transaction file. For example, processor 401 adds the receipt member code that was included with the transaction file to the request data.

[0084] The processor 401 may also obtain the receipt member code associated with the store member code described in the transaction file by querying the member server 22. Alternatively, the processor 401 may obtain the receipt member code by querying the receipt server 11. Furthermore, for example, the linkage table group TGA may be duplicated and stored in the auxiliary storage unit 403, and the processor 401 may read the receipt member code from this duplicated linkage table group TGA. If the processor 401 obtains the receipt member code in any of these ways, the processor 321 does not need to include the receipt member code in the request data.

[0085] As ACT402, processor 401 requests the receipt server 11 to add a receipt. For example, processor 401 has the communication unit 404 send a predetermined form of request data containing the receipt data obtained through the conversion process of ACT401 to the communication network NWA addressed to the receipt server 11. This request data is transmitted to the receipt server 11 via the communication network NWA and received by communication unit 114. Once the request data is received by communication unit 114, processor 111 proceeds to ACT101 in the information processing based on the receipt management program PRA. As ACT101, processor 111 updates the receipt file FIA ​​to include the receipt data contained in the request data. This allows processor 111 to subsequently display the receipt screen corresponding to the receipt data added here.

[0086] Thus, in this first case, the receipt data related to the transaction is added to the receipt file FIA ​​in response to a request from the POS terminal 32 after the processing of the transaction is completed. In this first case, the transaction file related to the transaction is collected by the headquarters server 21, and the journal file FIB is updated to represent the details of the transaction.

[0087] (Second case) The second case involves a customer who wishes to use store services but has not linked their store membership code with their receipt membership code. Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the transaction processing system 100 for a single transaction in the second case. Note that the same reference numerals are used for operations similar to those in Figure 7, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0088] ACT301, ACT302, and ACT221 are performed in the same manner as in the first case. However, since the receipt member code is not linked to the store member code, the processor 221 on the member server 22 cannot find the store member code being queried from the linkage table TAA. In this case, the processor 221 proceeds to ACT225.

[0089] As ACT225, processor 221 responds to the above inquiry. For example, processor 221 sends response data in a predetermined form, such as notifying that there is no association, from the communication unit 224 to the headquarters network 26, addressed to the originating POS terminal 32. Thus, by having processor 211 execute the processing of ACT225 and ACT222 in Figure 7 based on the transaction management program PRB, the computer with processor 211 as its central component functions as a response means.

[0090] This response data is transmitted to the requesting POS terminal 32 via the headquarters network 26, communication server 25, communication network NWB, communication server 33, and in-store network 34, and is received by the communication unit 3211. Upon receiving the response data by the communication unit 3211, the processor 321 proceeds to a state where it awaits product specification without performing ACT 303. Then, the processor 321 performs the registration process as ACT 304 and the accounting process as ACT 305 in the same manner as in the first case, and then proceeds to ACT 311.

[0091] As ACT311, processor 321 issues a paper receipt showing the transaction details. For example, processor 321 generates a receipt image showing the transaction details and instructs printer 328 to print this receipt image. In response to this instruction, the printer prints the receipt image onto receipt paper and ejects it, thereby issuing a paper receipt.

[0092] After this, ACT306, ACT307, and ACT211 are performed in the same way as in the first case. However, since processor 321 has not obtained the receipt member code, it does not request the conversion as ACT308 in Figure 7, and ACT401, ACT402, and ACT101 are also not performed.

[0093] Thus, in this second case, a paper receipt detailing the transaction is issued by the POS terminal 32, and the receipt data is not added to the receipt file FIA. In this second case, the POS is online and the POS terminal 32 receives a normal response from the member server 22, so the transaction file for the relevant transaction is collected by the headquarters server 21. The journal file FIB is also updated to reflect the details of the relevant transaction.

[0094] (Case 3) Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the transaction processing system 100 for a single transaction in the third case. Note that the same reference numerals are used for operations similar to those in Figures 7 and 9, and their detailed explanations are omitted. The third case is when the customer does not wish to use the store's services.

[0095] The customer does not wish to use store services and therefore does not present a membership card. The operator then begins selecting products. As a result, steps 301, ACT221, ACT222, and ACT303 in Figure 7 are not performed. Steps 304, ACT305, ACT311, ACT306, ACT307, and ACT211 are performed in the same way as in the first and second cases. In this third case as well, the processor 321 has not obtained the receipt membership code, so it does not request a conversion as ACT308 in Figure 7, and steps 401, ACT402, and ACT101 are also not performed.

[0096] Thus, in this third case, a paper receipt detailing the transaction is issued by the POS terminal 32, and the receipt data is not added to the receipt file FIA. Furthermore, in this third case, the POS terminal 32 does not query the member server 22, and the status of the transaction is not confirmed, so the transaction file is collected by the headquarters server 21. The journal file FIB is also updated to show the details of the relevant transaction.

[0097] (Case 4) Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the transaction processing system 100 for a single transaction in the fourth case. Note that the same reference numerals are used for operations similar to those in Figures 7 and 9, and their detailed explanations are omitted. The fourth case is when a customer wishes to receive in-store services while offline.

[0098] ACT301 and ACT302 are performed in the same manner as in the first case. However, because the system is offline, the inquiry data is not transmitted to the member server 22. Alternatively, the inquiry data may be transmitted to the member server 22, and ACT221 and ACT222 may be executed, but the response data may not be transmitted to the POS terminal 32.

[0099] Therefore, even after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the query as ACT302, the processor 321 cannot confirm that the response data has been received and determines that a timeout has occurred as ACT321. The processor 321 then performs ACT304, ACT305, ACT311, and ACT306 in the same manner as in the first and second cases. In this fourth case as well, the processor 321 has not obtained the receipt member code, so it does not request the conversion as ACT308 in Figure 7, and ACT401, ACT402, and ACT101 are also not performed. Furthermore, since the processor 321 has been confirmed to be offline, it does not send a completion notification as ACT307.

[0100] Thus, in this fourth case, a paper receipt detailing the transaction is issued by the POS terminal 32, and the receipt data is not added to the receipt file FIA. Also, in this fourth case, the transaction file is not collected by the headquarters server 21. Furthermore, the journal file FIB is updated to reflect the details of the relevant transaction.

[0101] (Recovery operation) In the second case, the electronic receipt service will not be applied to the transaction in question, contrary to the customer's wishes. Therefore, at a predetermined time, such as the end of business hours for one business day at a store, the following recovery actions are performed.

[0102] Figure 12 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the transaction processing system 100 during the recovery operation. When the above timing occurs, the processor 321 in the POS terminal 32 proceeds to ACT321. As ACT321, processor 321 sends the journal file FIB to headquarters server 21. For example, processor 321 causes communication unit 3211 to send transmission data in a predetermined format, including the journal file FIB, to headquarters server 21 via the in-store network 34. This transmission data is transmitted to headquarters server 21 via in-store network 34, communication server 33, communication network NWB, communication server 25, and headquarters network 26, and is received by communication unit 214. Once the transmission data is received by communication unit 214, processor 211 proceeds to ACT215.

[0103] As mentioned above, the journal file FIB is newly generated for the first transaction of each business day and is updated in all of the first to fourth cases. In other words, at the time of transmission, the journal file FIB represents the details of all transactions processed by the POS terminal 32 during that business day.

[0104] As ACT215, processor 211 stores the journal file FIB contained in the received transmission data in the main storage unit 212 or auxiliary storage unit 213. Thus, by having processor 211 perform information processing based on the transaction management program PRB, the computer with processor 211 as its central component functions as a journal acquisition means.

[0105] As ACT216, processor 211 extracts all transactions performed offline from among the transactions contained in the journal file FIB. For example, processor 211 extracts transactions performed offline from among the transactions contained in the journal file FIB that are different from any transactions in the transaction files contained in the transaction file group FGA. For example, processor 211 selects one transaction contained in the journal file FIB and determines that the transaction was performed offline if the transaction number, transaction date and time, store code, register number, and store member code contained in the journal file FIB as data representing the details of that transaction are not described in the transaction file group FGA, and the transaction file containing the transaction number, transaction date and time, store code, register number, and store member code is not included in the transaction file group FGA. Then, processor 211 performs the same determination for all transactions contained in the journal file FIB to extract all transactions performed offline.

[0106] As ACT217, processor 211 extracts transactions made by receipt members from the transactions extracted in ACT216. For example, processor 211 selects one of the transactions extracted in ACT216 and checks, for example, the member server 22, to see if the receipt member code is associated with the store member code contained in the journal file FIB as data representing the details of that transaction. If processor 211 confirms that the receipt member code is associated, it determines that the transaction is made by a receipt member. Processor 211 then extracts transactions made by receipt members by performing the same check for all transactions extracted in ACT216. Processor 211 also obtains each receipt member code that has been confirmed to be associated with a store member code during this process.

[0107] The journal file contains details of all transactions processed during a single business day. The transaction file group FGA does not include transaction files for transactions processed offline. Thus, the processor 211 extracts all transactions processed offline and by receipt members from among all transactions processed by the POS terminal 32 during a single business day. In other words, the processor 211 extracts transactions for which receipt data is not included in the receipt file FIA, even though there is a possibility of applying the electronic receipt service, as transactions to be digitized thereafter (hereinafter referred to as digitized transactions). Thus, by the processor 211 executing information processing based on the transaction management program PRB, the computer with the processor 211 as its central component functions as an extraction means.

[0108] As ACT218, processor 211 requests conversion server 40 to convert the transaction file for each electronic transaction. For example, processor 321 extracts data for each item in the transaction file from the details represented in the journal file for each electronic transaction and generates a transaction file for each electronic transaction. Then, processor 211 sends a request data in a predetermined form, including all of these transaction files, to conversion server 40 via the communication unit 214 to the headquarters network 26. Processor 211 includes in the request data the receipt member code found in ACT217 for the transaction related to each transaction file, associated with that transaction file.

[0109] This request data is transmitted to the conversion server 40 via the headquarters network 26, the communication server 24, and the communication network NWC, and received by the communication unit 405. When the communication unit 405 receives the request data, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 411 in the information processing based on the conversion processing program PRE.

[0110] As ACT411, processor 401 performs the same conversion process as ACT401 on each transaction file related to the electronic transaction, converting them into receipt data for each electronic transaction.

[0111] As ACT412, processor 401 requests the receipt server 11 to add receipts for electronic transactions. For example, processor 401 causes communication unit 404 to send request data in a predetermined form, which includes all the receipt data obtained for each electronic transaction through the conversion process of ACT401, to the receipt server 11 via the communication network NWA. This request data is transmitted to the receipt server 11 via the communication network NWA and received by communication unit 114. Once the request data is received by communication unit 114, processor 111 proceeds to ACT111 within the information processing based on the receipt management program PRA.

[0112] As ACT111, processor 111 updates the receipt file FIA ​​to include each receipt data included in the request data. This allows processor 111 to subsequently view the receipt screen corresponding to each receipt data added here. In other words, when processor 211 makes a request as ACT218, it is a process to make the details of electronic transactions verifiable through the electronic receipt service. Thus, by having processor 211 execute information processing based on the transaction management program PRB, the computer with processor 211 as its central component functions as a processing means.

[0113] As described above, in the transaction processing system 100, the headquarters server 21 collects transaction files for processed transactions, but does not collect transaction files for transactions processed offline. The POS terminal 32 generates a journal file showing the details of all transactions processed in one business day and sends it to the headquarters server 21. The headquarters server 21 identifies electronic transactions processed offline as the difference between the transactions included in the journal file and the transactions in the collected transaction files, and adds the receipt data for those electronic transactions to the electronic receipt service.

[0114] This allows the electronic receipt service to be applied later, even if the receipt membership code cannot be obtained during transaction processing due to being offline, and therefore the electronic receipt service could not be applied at the end of the transaction processing.

[0115] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows: The linkage table TAA may be stored in a storage device provided in the headquarters server 21, the store server 31, or any other information processing device, and the processor 321 may obtain the receipt member code by querying the processor provided in that device.

[0116] The processor 321 may generate the receipt data at the POS terminal 32. Alternatively, the receipt data may be generated by any information processing device provided in the store server 31 or the store system 30 in response to a request from the POS terminal 32.

[0117] The processor 211 on the headquarters server 21 may generate the receipt data.

[0118] In response to a request from the headquarters server 21, receipt data may be generated using any information processing device provided in the headquarters system 20.

[0119] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 10…Receipt management system, 11…Receipt server, 20…Head office system, 21…Head office server, 22…Member server, 23,24,25,33…Communication server, 26…Head office network, 30…Store system, 31…Store server, 32…POS terminal, 34…Store network, 40…Conversion server, 100…Transaction processing system, 111,211,221,321,401…Processor, 112,212,222 322,402...Main memory unit, 113,213,223,323,403...Auxiliary memory unit, 114,115,214,224,404,405,3211...Communication unit, 116,215,225,406,3212...Transmission line, 200...Information terminal, 324...Clock, 325...Keyboard, 326...Display, 327...Scanner, 328...Printer, 329...Card reader, 3210...Cash dispenser.

Claims

1. A transaction processing system comprising a receipt management device that manages transaction details and provides an electronic receipt service that makes said details electronically verifiable, a transaction processing device, and a transaction management device, The transaction processing device is equipped with transaction processing means for processing transactions, The transaction processing device is provided with an identifier acquisition means for acquiring a first identifier of a trader who conducts a transaction processed by the transaction processing means, The transaction processing device is provided with an inquiry means for querying the transaction management device with respect to a first identifier obtained by the identifier acquisition means, The transaction management device is provided with a response means that, in response to an inquiry by the inquiry means, notifies the transaction processing device of the second identifier if the second identifier is associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry, and notifies the transaction processing device of that fact if the second identifier is not associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry. The transaction processing device is provided with a notification means that, each time processing by the transaction processing means is completed, if it is confirmed that a response has been made by the response means, notifies the transaction management device of a transaction file representing the details of the completed transaction. The transaction management device includes a collection means for collecting transaction files notified by the notification means, The transaction processing device is equipped with a generation means that generates a journal file representing the details of each of the multiple transactions processed by the transaction processing means during a predetermined period, The transaction management device includes a journal acquisition means for acquiring journal files generated by the generation means, The transaction management device includes an extraction means for extracting from among a plurality of transactions contained in a journal file acquired by the journal acquisition means, transactions that are different from transactions related to a transaction file collected by the collection means, and for which a second identifier is associated with a first identifier acquired by the identifier acquisition means. The transaction management device includes a processing means that performs processing to make the details of the transactions extracted by the extraction means verifiable by the electronic receipt service, A transaction processing system equipped with the following features.

2. The system further includes a conversion device that converts the format of the data contained in the journal file into a predetermined format that allows the receipt management device to electronically verify the transaction details, and then sends the converted data to the receipt management device. The processing means sends data representing transaction details, which are included in the journal file and extracted by the extraction means, to the conversion device. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

3. The first identifier is an identifier for identifying the user of the store where the transaction takes place. The second identifier is an identifier for identifying the user of the electronic receipt service, The response means assumes that the second identifier is associated with the first identifier being queried by the inquiry means when the second identifier is stored in the storage device in association with the first identifier being queried by the inquiry means, and the second identifier is associated with the first identifier being queried. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

4. The notification means includes in the transaction file a transaction identifier for identifying a completed transaction, a store identifier for identifying the store where the completed transaction took place, a device identifier for identifying the transaction processing device that processes the completed transaction, a first identifier obtained by the identifier acquisition means with respect to the completed transaction, and timing information representing the timing at which the completed transaction was processed by the transaction processing device. The generation means includes in the journal file, for each of the multiple transactions, a transaction identifier for identifying the transaction, a store identifier for identifying the store where the transaction took place, a device identifier for identifying the transaction processing device that processes the transaction, a first identifier obtained by the identifier acquisition means for the transaction, and timing information indicating the timing at which the transaction was processed by the transaction processing device. The extraction means determines that a transaction is different from a transaction related to a transaction in a transaction file if the transaction identifier, store identifier, device identifier, first identifier, and timing information included in the journal file as relating to a transaction does not match any information included in any transaction file collected by the collection means. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

5. A receipt management device that manages transaction details and provides an electronic receipt service that makes said details available for electronic verification, Transaction management device, Transaction processing means for processing transactions, Identifier acquisition means for acquiring a first identifier of a trader who conducts a transaction processed by the transaction processing means, Inquiry means for querying the transaction management device regarding the first identifier obtained by the identifier acquisition means, Each time the transaction processing by the transaction processing means is completed, if it can be confirmed that a response to the inquiry by the inquiry means has been made, the notification means notifies the transaction management device of a transaction file representing the details of the completed transaction, and A generation means that generates a journal file representing the details of multiple transactions processed by a transaction processing means within a predetermined period. A transaction processing device equipped with, An information processing device used as the transaction management device in a transaction processing system equipped with the following: A response means that, in response to an inquiry by the inquiry means, if a second identifier is associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry, notifies the transaction processing device of the second identifier, and if a second identifier is not associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry, notifies the transaction processing device of that fact. A collection means for collecting transaction files notified by the aforementioned notification means, A journal acquisition means for acquiring the journal file generated by the generation means, An extraction means for extracting from among multiple transactions included in the journal file obtained by the journal acquisition means a transaction that is different from the transaction file collected by the collection means and in which a second identifier is associated with a first identifier obtained by the identifier acquisition means, Processing means for performing processing to make the details of the transactions extracted by the extraction means verifiable by the electronic receipt service, An information processing device equipped with the following.

6. A receipt management device that manages transaction details and provides an electronic receipt service that makes said details available for electronic verification, Transaction management device, Transaction processing means for processing transactions, Identifier acquisition means for acquiring a first identifier of a trader who conducts a transaction processed by the transaction processing means, Inquiry means for querying the transaction management device regarding the first identifier obtained by the identifier acquisition means, Each time the transaction processing by the transaction processing means is completed, if it can be confirmed that a response to the inquiry by the inquiry means has been made, the notification means notifies the transaction management device of a transaction file representing the details of the completed transaction, and A generation means that generates a journal file representing the details of multiple transactions processed by a transaction processing means within a predetermined period. A transaction processing device equipped with, In a transaction processing system equipped with the above, the computer provided in the information processing device used as the transaction management device is A response means that, in response to an inquiry by the inquiry means, if a second identifier is associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry, notifies the transaction processing device of the second identifier, and if a second identifier is not associated with the first identifier that is the subject of the inquiry, notifies the transaction processing device of that fact. A collection means for collecting transaction files notified by the aforementioned notification means, A journal acquisition means for acquiring the journal file generated by the generation means, An extraction means for extracting from among multiple transactions included in the journal file obtained by the journal acquisition means a transaction that is different from the transaction file collected by the collection means and in which a second identifier is associated with a first identifier obtained by the identifier acquisition means, Processing means for performing processing to make the details of the transactions extracted by the extraction means verifiable by the electronic receipt service, An information processing program that enables a function to work.

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