Settlement device

Abstract

The invention discloses a settlement device which can reliably confirm a confirmation object commodity by a shop assistant in a settlement system based on a full self-service mode in which a customer registers a purchased commodity. The settlement device is capable of operating in a first operation mode in which an operation corresponding to the operation of a customer is performed and a second operation mode in which an operation corresponding to the operation of a shop assistant is performed, and is provided with a first display unit and a second display unit. The first display unit displays, in the first operation mode, a confirmation screen for calling a shop assistant when a commodity to be confirmed is input. The second display unit displays, in the first operation mode, a selection screen for a shop assistant to select whether or not a confirmation object commodity is available for sale.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from Japanese patent application filed on August 3, 2023, with application number JP2023-127283, and cites the contents of the above application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a settlement device. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, retail stores have been introducing a fully self-service settlement system. A fully self-service settlement system is a system that allows customers to complete everything from registering purchased goods to settling accounts. In stores that have introduced a fully self-service settlement system, a settlement device that supports the fully self-service system, a so-called self-service POS terminal, is used.

[0004] However, among the products sold in stores, there are some that require confirmation by store staff. For example, cigarettes and alcohol have age restrictions, and can only be sold after the store staff confirms the customer's age. In addition, among specific medicines, there are also products that require a doctor's diagnosis or prescription, and for such medicines, confirmation by a qualified store staff is required. In addition, there are also cases where high-priced products need to be confirmed by the store itself to see if they can be sold.

[0005] Therefore, in a fully self-service settlement system in which customers register purchased goods, similar to the case in which a clerk registers purchased goods, it is necessary to reliably confirm the confirmation target goods by the clerk. Summary of the invention

[0006] In view of the above problems, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a settlement device that can reliably perform clerk confirmation of confirmation target products in a settlement system based on a fully self-service method in which customers register purchased products.

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the settlement device of the embodiment can operate in a first operation mode in which an operation corresponding to the customer's operation is performed and in a second operation mode in which an operation corresponding to the clerk's operation is performed, wherein the settlement device includes a first display unit and a second display unit. In the first operation mode, the first display unit displays a confirmation screen for calling the clerk when the confirmation target product is input. In the first operation mode, the second display unit displays a selection screen for the clerk to select whether the confirmation target product can be sold.

[0008] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, when the confirmation target commodity is input, the clerk can be called to select whether to sell it, so that the clerk can reliably confirm the confirmation target commodity.

[0009] The above settlement device further includes a registration unit for registering purchased products by the customer's operation in the first operation mode, and the first display unit displays the confirmation screen when the confirmation target product is registered as the purchased product by the registration unit.

[0010] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, when registering purchased goods, the clerk can reliably confirm the confirmation target goods.

[0011] The above-mentioned settlement device further includes a canceling unit that cancels the registration of the purchased product as the confirmation target product based on the clerk's selection of non-saleability of the confirmation target product in the selection screen displayed by the second display unit in the first operation mode.

[0012] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, it is possible to prevent the confirmation target commodity from being sold to a customer who is not a sales target.

[0013] In the above-mentioned settlement device, the first display unit also displays the confirmation screen when the confirmation target commodity selected as unsaleable by the store clerk is registered again as the purchase commodity by the registration unit.

[0014] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, it is possible to reliably prevent the clerk from missing the confirmation when re-registering the confirmation target commodity that was once considered unsaleable.

[0015] The above-mentioned settlement device also includes: in the first action mode, a registration unit, which registers the purchased goods through the customer's operation; and a settlement unit, which settles the purchased goods registered by the registration unit, and the first display unit displays the confirmation screen when the purchased goods that are the settlement objects of the settlement unit include the confirmation object product.

[0016] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, when settlement is to be carried out, the store clerk can reliably confirm the confirmation target commodity.

[0017] The above-mentioned settlement device is also provided with a cancellation unit, which temporarily shifts to the second action mode when the clerk selects that the confirmed object product is not for sale in the selection screen displayed by the second display unit in the first action mode, and cancels the purchased product as the confirmed object product from the settlement object according to the clerk's operation in the second action mode.

[0018] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, the confirmation target commodity can be reliably cancelled in the second operation mode of the operation corresponding to the operation of the store clerk.

[0019] The above-mentioned settlement device is also provided with a registration unit for registering the purchase of goods through the operation of the customer in the first action mode, and the registration unit stores the purchase product data of the registered purchase goods in the transaction file. The confirmation object goods include goods with age restrictions, goods requiring a doctor's prescription, and high-priced goods stipulated by the store alone. In the transaction file, the purchase product data, adult confirmation mark, medicine confirmation mark, and high-priced product confirmation mark are stored corresponding to the transaction number.

[0020] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, the confirmation mark of the confirmation target commodity can be stored in the transaction file.

[0021] The above-mentioned settlement device also has an option setting unit, which selects confirmation options related to the clerk's confirmation of the confirmation object product. The option setting unit sets option 2 for confirmation by the clerk each time the confirmation object product is registered and option 3 for confirmation by the clerk only when the first product of the confirmation object product is registered.

[0022] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, it is possible to set the confirmation timing of the confirmation target commodity.

[0023] The settlement device further comprises a determination unit, which determines whether the registration is the first item of the confirmation item when the confirmation item is registered in the state where option 3 is set. When the determination unit determines that the registration is the first item of the confirmation item, the first display unit displays a confirmation screen.

[0024] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, a confirmation screen can be displayed when registering the first commodity.

[0025] In the above-mentioned settlement device, the determination unit determines whether the registration is the first item of the confirmation target product based on information of the mark to which the registered confirmation target product matches among the adult confirmation mark, the medicine confirmation mark, and the high-priced product confirmation mark.

[0026] According to the above-mentioned settlement device, when the adult confirmation mark, the medicine confirmation mark, and the high-priced commodity confirmation mark store information indicating that the commodity has been confirmed by the store clerk, the confirmation target commodity matching the mark does not need to be confirmed repeatedly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a fully self-service settlement system including a self-service POS terminal as a settlement device according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the appearance structure of the self-service POS terminal.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the circuit structure of the main parts of the self-service POS terminal.

[0030] Figure 4 1 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the self-service POS terminal when option 2 is selected as the confirmation option for the confirmation target commodity in the self-service mode.

[0031] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the main data structures stored in transaction files.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a non-key confirmation screen that is popped up and displayed on the commodity registration screen displayed on the touch panel of the self-service POS terminal.

[0033] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen with a button that is popped up and displayed on the product registration screen.

[0034] Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the self-service POS terminal when option 3 is selected as the confirmation option for the confirmation target commodity in the self-service mode.

[0035] Fig. 9 1 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the self-service POS terminal when option 4 is selected as the confirmation option for the confirmation target commodity in the self-service mode.

[0036] Fig.10 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a fully self-service settlement system including a self-service POS terminal as a settlement device according to a second embodiment.

[0037] Fig.11 1 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the self-service POS terminal when option 2 is selected as the confirmation option for the confirmation target commodity in the self-service mode.

[0038] Fig.12 1 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the self-service POS terminal when option 4 is selected as the confirmation option for the confirmation target commodity in the self-service mode.

[0039] Description of Reference Numerals

[0040] 1…Self-service POS terminal, 2…Store server, 3…Communication network, 4…Service terminal, 10…Main body, 11…Display bar, 12…Touch panel, 13…Light emitting unit, 14…Scanner, 15…Card reader, 16…Printer, 17…Automatic change machine, 18…Reader / writer, 20…Scale unit, 21…Casing, 22…Scale pan, 23…Bag holder, 30…Basket, 31…Processor, 32…Main memory, 33…Auxiliary storage device, 34…Clock, 35…Communication interface, 36…System transmission path, 121…Product registration screen, 122…No-button confirmation screen, 123…Product list, 124…Checkout button, 125…With-button confirmation screen, 126…Registration button, 127…Non-sale button, 141…Reading window, 321…Transaction document. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of the settlement device will be described using the drawings.

[0042] [First embodiment]

[0043] In this embodiment, a settlement device based on a fully self-service settlement system is exemplified. Hereinafter, the settlement device of the first embodiment is referred to as a self-service POS terminal.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a settlement system based on a fully self-service method. The settlement system includes a plurality of self-service POS terminals 1 and a store server 2. The settlement system connects each self-service POS terminal 1 and the store server 2 via a communication network 3 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The store server 2 provides various services related to the settlement system to each self-service POS terminal 1 connected via the communication network 3.

[0045] A plurality of self-service POS terminals 1 are respectively installed at the settlement places of the store, and the customers who have finished shopping become operators. The customers who put the purchased goods into the shopping basket or the like or load them on the shopping cart and move to the settlement place in the store where the goods are displayed operate the self-service POS terminal 1 to self-service the settlement of the purchased goods, that is, the settlement involved in the transaction from registration to payment of the goods. The self-service POS terminal 1 is an example of a fully self-service settlement device. The settlement device can be called a settlement terminal, a checkout device, a checkout terminal, a commodity registration device, a commodity registration terminal, etc.

[0046] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance structure of the self-service POS terminal 1. Figure 3 1 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the main parts of the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0047] like Figure 2As shown, the self-service POS terminal 1 has a main body 10 disposed on the ground and a scale unit 20 disposed on the side of the main body 10. The main body 10 has a display rod 11 and a touch panel 12 installed on its upper part. The main body 10 has a basket stand 30 disposed in the center of the side opposite to the side where the scale unit 20 is disposed. The basket stand 30 is used to place the baskets, etc., in which the customers from the store put the purchased goods. Figure 2 The customer stands in front of the main body 10 to work so that he can see the screen of the touch panel 12. Therefore, from the customer's point of view, there is a basket stand 30 on the right side of the main body 10, and a scale unit 20 on the left side. In the following description, the side where the customer stands is regarded as the front of the main body 10, the side where the scale unit 20 is set is regarded as the left side of the main body 10, and the side where the basket stand 30 is set is regarded as the right side of the main body 10.

[0048] The display bar 11 has a light emitting unit 13 at its front end that selectively emits blue and red colors. The display bar 11 displays the state of the self-service POS terminal 1, such as standby, operation, calling, error, etc., according to the color of the light emitted by the light emitting unit 13.

[0049] The touch panel 12 is composed of a display for displaying various screens to an operator who operates the self-service POS terminal 1 and a touch sensor for detecting a touch input on the screen by the operator. In the self-service POS terminal 1, the operator is usually a customer.

[0050] A scanner 14 is formed on the front surface of the main body 10 (see Figure 3 ) of the reading window 141, the card reader 15 (refer to Figure 3 ) of the card insertion port 151, and by the printer 16 (refer to Figure 3 ) is printed on the ticket issuing port 161. In addition, the automatic change machine 17 (refer to Figure 3 ) are also formed on the front of the main body 10. In addition, a communication cable 181 extends outward from the right side of the main body 10, and a reader / writer 18 for electronic money media is connected to the front end of the communication cable 181. The reader / writer 18 is placed on a placement table 182 provided on the upper right side of the main body 10.

[0051] The structure of the scale unit 20 is that a scale pan 22 is provided on the upper part of a housing 21, and a bag holder 23 is installed on the upper part of the scale pan 22. The upper surface of the scale pan 22 is a loading surface 221. The bag holder 23 has a pair of holding arms 231, and the holding arms 231 are used to hold shopping bags or shopping bags brought by customers, so-called self-service bags. The scale unit 20 measures the weight of the goods placed on the loading surface 221 in the plastic bag or self-service bag held by the holding arms 231.

[0052] like Figure 3As shown, the self-service POS terminal 1 includes a processor 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage device 33, a clock 34, a communication interface 35, a touch panel 12, a light-emitting unit 13, a scanner 14, a card reader 15, a printer 16, an automatic change dispenser 17, a reader / writer 18, a scale unit 20 and a system transmission path 36. The system transmission path 36 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 36 connects the processor 31 and other parts directly or via a signal input and output circuit to transmit data signals exchanged between each other. The processor 31, the main memory 32 and the auxiliary storage device 33 are connected through the system transmission path 36, thereby forming a computer of the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0053] The processor 31 is equivalent to the central part of the above-mentioned computer. The processor 31 controls each part according to the operating system or application program to realize various functions as the self-service POS terminal 1. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 31 can be, for example, an MPU (micro processing unit), a SoC (system on a chip), a DSP (digital signal processor), a GPU (graphics processing unit), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), a PLD (programmable logic device) or an FPGA (field-programmable gate array), etc. Alternatively, the processor 31 can also be a combination of multiple thereof.

[0054] The main memory 32 is equivalent to the main storage part of the above-mentioned computer. The main memory 32 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 32 stores an operating system or an application program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 32 can store data required for the processor 31 to perform processing for controlling each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 32 stores a transaction file 321. The transaction file 321 is a data file for storing data related to a transaction processed by the self-service POS terminal 1. The details of the transaction file 321 will be described later. The main memory 32 uses the volatile storage area as a working area for the processor 31 to appropriately rewrite data. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0055] The auxiliary storage device 33 is equivalent to the auxiliary storage part of the above-mentioned computer. For example, EEPROM (ElectricErasableProgrammableRead-OnlyMemory), HDD (HardDiscDrive) or SSD (SolidStateDrive) can be the auxiliary storage device 33. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores data used by the processor 31 when performing various processes, data generated by the processing of the processor 31, etc. The auxiliary storage device 33 can also store the above-mentioned application program.

[0056] The clock 34 measures time. The processor 31 processes the time measured by the clock 34 as the current time.

[0057] The communication interface 35 performs data communication with external devices connected via the network according to a preset communication protocol. The external devices are, for example, the store server 2, a router or other self-service POS terminals 1.

[0058] The scanner 14 reads the code symbol from the commodity scanned by the reading window 141. Each commodity sold in the store is attached with a code symbol encoding a commodity ID or the like for identifying the commodity. The code symbol is, for example, a barcode. The code symbol may be, for example, a two-dimensional data code. The scanner 14 may be a type that reads the code symbol by laser scanning or a type that reads the code symbol from an image captured by a camera.

[0059] The card reader 15 reads card data recorded on a card medium such as a credit card, a reward card, etc. The card reader 15 pulls the card medium inserted into the card insertion port 151 into the main body 10 , reads the card data, and ejects the card from the card insertion port 151 .

[0060] The printer 16 prints receipt data indicating transaction contents on receipt paper, etc. The receipt paper printed with the receipt data is discharged from the issuing port 161, cut by a cutter (not shown), and issued as a receipt or invoice.

[0061] The automatic change machine 17 includes a coin unit 175 and a banknote unit 176. The coin unit 175 screens the coins inserted into the coin insertion port 171 one by one, identifies the currency type, and stores them in the safe according to the currency type. The coin unit 175, for example, takes out coins of the corresponding currency type from the safe according to the change data, and pays them out to the coin dispensing port 172. The banknote unit 176 screens the banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion port 173 one by one, identifies the currency type, and stores them in the safe according to the currency type. The banknote unit 176, for example, takes out banknotes of the corresponding currency type from the safe according to the change data, and pays them out to the banknote dispensing port 174.

[0062] The reader / writer 18 reads and rewrites the electronic money recorded in the electronic money medium. The electronic money medium is, for example, a contactless IC card. The electronic money medium may also be an electronic device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

[0063] The operation of the self-service POS terminal 1 having such a configuration will be described below.

[0064] The self-service POS terminal 1 in this embodiment is also similar to the conventional settlement device, and can operate in two operation modes, the self-service mode and the clerk mode, as operation modes. The self-service mode is a first operation mode in which an operation corresponding to the customer's operation is performed, and the clerk mode is a second operation mode in which an operation corresponding to the clerk's operation is performed. For example, when the scanner 14 reads the clerk barcode printed as a code symbol on the card medium or the like carried by the clerk, the self-service POS terminal 1 switches from the self-service mode to the clerk mode. In the clerk mode, a confirmation option related to the clerk's confirmation of the confirmation target commodity in the self-service mode can be selected. The self-service POS terminal 1 sets the confirmation option (option setting unit) through the prescribed operation of the clerk mode.

[0065] As confirmation options in the self-service mode, the self-service POS terminal in this embodiment can select the following four options.

[0066] Option 1: Registration of the target product is allowed. In Option 1, confirmation by the store clerk is not required and all items are allowed. That is, the store clerk does not intervene.

[0067] Option 2: Not allowing confirmation of registration of target products (calling a store clerk) In this option 2, each registration requires confirmation through the intervention of a store clerk.

[0068] Option 3: Registration of confirmation of the target product is not allowed (calling the store clerk for only one item) In Option 3, confirmation by the store clerk is required only when registering one item.

[0069] Option 4: Confirmation of the registration of the target product is not allowed (call the clerk after pressing the checkout button). In option 4, after the product is registered, the clerk needs to intervene and confirm it at the time of checkout. It should be noted that the checkout button is arranged on the product registration screen showing the registration status of the purchased products displayed on the touch panel 12, and is a button operated when entering the checkout after all the purchased products are registered.

[0070] In the case where option 1 is selected, since the store clerk does not confirm the product to be confirmed, the explanation thereof is omitted. Figures 4 to 9 The operation of the self-service POS terminal 1 when options 2 to 4 are respectively selected will be described. Figure 4 1 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor 31 of the self-service POS terminal 1 when option 2 is selected. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure stored in the transaction file 321. Figure 6 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a non-key confirmation screen that is popped up and displayed on the commodity registration screen displayed on the touch panel 12 . Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen with a button that is popped up and displayed on the product registration screen. Figure 8 3 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 31 when option 3 is selected. Fig. 9 4 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by processor 31 when option 4 is selected.

[0071] It should be noted that Figure 4 , 8 The steps shown in 9 are examples. If the same result is obtained, the steps are not particularly limited. Figure 5 The data structure shown is also an example. If the processor 31 can obtain the required information, its format is not particularly limited. Similarly, Figure 6 and 7 The screens shown are also examples, and the format is not particularly limited as long as the information required by the user can be obtained.

[0072] (1) When option 2 is selected

[0073] In this case, if Figure 4As shown, the processor 31 first waits for the registration of the product as ACT 201. The customer who starts the self-service registration of purchasing the product using the self-service POS terminal 1 first operates the touch panel 12 to input the information required for the self-service registration. The information required for the self-service registration is, for example, information indicating whether to use a self-service bag. When the information required for the self-service registration is input, the processor 31 uses the screen of the touch panel 12 as the product registration screen. The product registration screen will be described later.

[0074] The customer who has confirmed the product registration screen takes out the purchased products one by one from the basket placed on the basket table 30, scans the reading window 141 of the scanner 14 to read the coding symbol, and then places the purchased products on the placing surface 221 of the scale 22. It should be noted that for fresh food without coding symbols, the customer selects the purchased products from the list of non-barcoded products displayed on the product registration screen of the touch panel 12, and then places the purchased products on the placing surface 221.

[0075] Through such self-service operation, the commodity code of the purchased commodity is input into the self-service POS terminal 1. The processor 31 uses the commodity code to retrieve the commodity data file and obtain the commodity data of the purchased commodity. The commodity data file is stored in the auxiliary storage device 33, for example. The commodity data file is stored in the store server 2, and the processor 31 can also obtain the commodity data from the store server 2 by sending the commodity code to the store server 2. The commodity data corresponds to the commodity code and includes information such as the commodity name, unit price, tax classification, unit weight, and confirmation classification. The tax classification is information that identifies whether the tax-included commodity whose unit price includes the tax or the tax-excluded commodity whose unit price does not include the tax. The unit weight is the standard weight of each commodity. The confirmation classification is information indicating whether the clerk's confirmation is required and the type of confirmation if confirmation is required. The types of confirmation include minors, medicines, high-priced commodities, etc.

[0076] The processor 31 calculates the weight of the commodity placed on the placing surface 221 based on the change in weight data measured by the scale unit 20. Then, the processor 31 determines whether the commodity weight is within the permissible range relative to the above-mentioned unit weight. If it is within the permissible range, the processor 31 recognizes that the commodity registration is performed normally.

[0077] It should be noted that, if the product registration is out of the permissible range, the processor 31 recognizes that the product registration is incorrect. In this case, the processor 31 displays an error message on the touch panel 12. Furthermore, the processor 31 controls the light emitting unit 13 to display an error state.

[0078] If the processor 31 recognizes that the product registration is proceeding normally, it determines "yes" in ACT201 and enters ACT202. As ACT202, the processor 31 performs product sales data processing. That is, the processor 31 generates product sales data including the product code, product name, unit price, tax classification, confirmation classification, number of sales, sales amount, etc. of the purchased product. The number of sales is the multiplier when the multiplier is entered via the touch panel 12 before the product code is entered. If the multiplier is not entered, the number of sales is "1". The processor 31 registers the product sales data in the transaction file 321. The processor 31 causes the product registration screen of the touch panel 12 to display the product name, sales amount, etc. of the product sales data. The confirmed target products include age-restricted products, products that require a doctor's prescription, and high-priced products that the store specifies independently.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, the transaction file 321 stores data such as the transaction number, purchased product data, total number of items, total amount, discount amount, settlement amount, adult confirmation mark, medicine confirmation mark, and high-priced product confirmation mark.

[0080] The transaction number is a series of numbers issued each time a transaction is processed in the self-service POS terminal 1. The purchased product data is record data made for each product bought and sold in the transaction identified by the transaction number. Here, the purchased product data is composed of items such as product code, product name, price, number of pieces, amount, confirmation classification, etc. The number of pieces is the number of pieces purchased of the product identified by the product code. The amount is the amount of the number of pieces purchased. The confirmation classification is information indicating whether the clerk's confirmation is required and the type of the confirmation if confirmation is required. The transaction file 321 can store multiple purchased product data.

[0081] The total number of items is the total number of items of each purchased product data. The total amount is the total amount of the amounts of each purchased product data. The discount amount is the amount of discount from the total amount. The settlement amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount from the total amount.

[0082] The adult confirmation flag, medicine confirmation flag, and high-priced item confirmation flag are data indicating the results of confirmation by the store clerk for each confirmation category. The initial state of these flags is empty, and the result of the clerk's confirmation is "0" when the sale is allowed, and "1" when the sale is not allowed. For example, when the clerk confirms that the customer is underage, the adult confirmation flag is "1", and the sale of cigarettes and alcohol is prohibited. When the clerk confirms that the customer does not carry a prescription, the medicine confirmation flag is "1", and the sale of specified medicines is prohibited. When the clerk confirms that the customer is not suitable for purchasing high-priced items, the high-priced item confirmation flag is "1", and the sale of high-priced items that the store specifies independently is prohibited. Information indicating that the clerk has not confirmed is empty. The result of the clerk's confirmation, indicating that the sale is allowed, is "0". The result of the clerk's confirmation, indicating that the sale is prohibited, is "1". These flags are the information used in Option 3.

[0083] When the commodity sales data processing is completed, the processor 31 confirms whether the registered purchased commodity is a confirmation target commodity as ACT 203. Specifically, the processor 31 confirms whether a certain confirmation type is stored as a confirmation classification in the purchased commodity data of the newly registered purchased commodity in the transaction file 321.

[0084] When the purchased product is not the confirmed product, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT203 and proceeds to ACT204. As ACT204, the processor 31 confirms whether the next product registration has been performed. When the product registration has not been performed, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT204 and proceeds to ACT205. As ACT205, the processor 31 confirms whether the checkout button has been input. The checkout button is displayed on the touch panel 12, for example. When the checkout button has not been input, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT205 and returns to ACT204. Here, the processor 31 waits for the product registration to be performed or the checkout button to be input in ACT204 and ACT205.

[0085] In the waiting state of ACT 204 and ACT 205, if it is detected that the commodity is registered, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 204 and returns to ACT 202. That is, the processor 31 executes the above-mentioned commodity sales data processing. Therefore, the commodity sales data of each commodity registered by the customer through the self-service operation is stored in the transaction file.

[0086] When the processor 31 detects that the checkout key has been input, it determines "yes" in ACT 205 and proceeds to ACT 206. In ACT 206, the processor 31 executes the checkout process.

[0087] In the checkout process, the processor 31 obtains information related to the settlement of the transaction. The information related to the settlement of the transaction includes the commodity sales data stored in the transaction file. In addition, the information related to the settlement of the transaction includes the transaction date and time, the cashier number, the store number, the transaction number, the store data, etc. The transaction date and time is the date and time measured by the clock 34. The cashier number is the terminal identification information set for each self-service POS terminal 1. The store number is the store identification information set for each store where the self-service POS terminal 1 is installed. The transaction number is the transaction identification information issued at the time of settlement of each transaction. The store data is the store name, address, store phone number, etc.

[0088] In addition, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 12 to display a payment method selection screen. The payment method selection screen is a screen for the customer to select a payment method. Then, when the customer selects a payment method, the processor 31 switches the screen of the touch panel 12 from the payment method selection screen to the checkout screen corresponding to the payment method. In the checkout screen, the total amount is displayed, if it is a cash payment, the deposit amount, the change amount, etc. are displayed, and a settlement button for the customer to instruct the settlement of the transaction according to the selected payment method is displayed. Through the customer's operation of the settlement button, the processor 31 performs the settlement processing corresponding to the payment method. For example, in the case of selecting cash payment, the processor 31 performs a settlement processing based on cash payment. In the case of selecting credit card payment, the processor 31 performs a settlement processing based on credit card payment. In the case of selecting electronic money payment, the processor 31 performs a settlement processing based on electronic money payment. The same is true when other payment methods are selected. It should be noted that since these settlement processes are well-known processes, detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0089] When the settlement process is completed, the processor 31 controls the printer 16 to issue a receipt. Then, the processor 31 sends the transaction file 321 to the store server 2 via the communication network 3 to be stored in the store server 2, and clears it from the main memory 32.

[0090] When the checkout process described above is completed, the processor 31 ends Figure 4 The flowchart shows the steps of information processing.

[0091] The information processing steps described above are for the case where the confirmation target product has not been purchased. On the other hand, when the confirmation target product is available, the information processing steps are as follows.

[0092] That is, if the purchased product is a confirmation target product, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 203 and proceeds to ACT 207. As ACT 207, the processor 31 pops up a non-key confirmation screen on the product registration screen displayed on the touch panel 12. Furthermore, the processor 31 controls the light emitting unit 13 to enter a state indicating that the confirmation target product is registered and needs to be confirmed by the store clerk.

[0093] When the confirmed product is registered as a purchased product, Figure 6 As shown, a no-key confirmation screen 122 is popped up and displayed on the commodity registration screen 121 displayed on the touch panel 12 . Figure 6 This is an example of a case where an age-restricted commodity such as alcoholic beverages that is subject to age verification and is limited to those aged 20 and above is registered. The no-button confirmation screen 122 displays only a message and does not include any operation buttons. The operation buttons such as the barcode-free commodity list 123 and the checkout button 124 configured in the commodity registration screen 121 become the background of the no-button confirmation screen 122, so even if the button is touched, the input is not accepted. In other words, when the no-button confirmation screen 122 is displayed, the processor 31 prohibits the customer from performing further operations.

[0094] If the buttonless confirmation screen 122 is displayed, the processor 31 waits for the clerk's barcode to be scanned as ACT 208. The clerk who has confirmed that the light emitting unit 13 has become a state indicating that the clerk's confirmation is required, rushes to the self-service POS terminal 1 of the light emitting unit 13, recognizes the message displayed on the buttonless confirmation screen 122 displayed on the touch panel 12, and takes necessary actions. Figure 6 In the example of the buttonless confirmation screen 122, the customer's age is confirmed. In addition, the clerk scans the clerk barcode printed as a code symbol on the card medium or the like carried by the clerk through the reading window 141 of the scanner 14 for reading. It should be noted that, of course, the customer confirmation can also be implemented after the clerk barcode is scanned.

[0095] If the store clerk barcode is scanned, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 208 and proceeds to ACT 209. As ACT 209, the processor 31 updates the no-key confirmation screen 122 displayed on the touch panel 12 to the key confirmation screen. Furthermore, the processor 31 controls the light emitting unit 13 to cancel the state indicating that the store clerk's confirmation is required.

[0096] When the clerk barcode is scanned, Figure 7 As shown, the confirmation screen on the commodity registration screen 121 displayed on the touch panel 12 is updated from the non-key confirmation screen 122 to the key confirmation screen 125. The key confirmation screen 125 includes a registration button 126 for allowing sales and a non-sale button 127 for prohibiting sales. In other words, the processor 31 is in a state where it can accept the confirmation result.

[0097] Therefore, as ACT 210, the processor 31 waits for the operation of a key in the key confirmation screen 125. When the registration key 126 or the non-sale key 127 in the key confirmation screen 125 is operated, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 210 and proceeds to ACT 211. It should be noted that the operation of the registration key 126 or the non-sale key 127 itself can be performed by the store clerk or the customer.

[0098] As ACT 211, the processor 31 confirms whether the operated button is the registration button 126. When the registration button 126 is operated, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 211 and proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 204. That is, the processor 31 maintains the registration as approved for the confirmed target commodity and can accept the registration of the next purchased commodity.

[0099] On the other hand, when the non-saleable button 127 is operated, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 211 and proceeds to ACT 212. As ACT 212, the processor 31 cancels the registration of the confirmed object commodity. That is, the processor 31 deletes the purchase commodity data last registered in the transaction file 321 from the transaction file 321, and recalculates the total number of pieces, the total amount, etc., and updates the content of the transaction file 321. In this way, the processor 31 automatically cancels the registration of the confirmed object commodity that is considered to be non-saleable while maintaining the self-service mode. After that, the processor 31 proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 204 and can accept the registration of the next purchased commodity.

[0100] It should be noted that the store clerk collects the confirmed object commodity whose registration is cancelled. In addition, if the basket or the like placed on the basket stand 30 has the same confirmed object commodity, the store clerk also collects it. In addition, if there are other commodities of the same confirmed classification, these are also collected by the store clerk. In addition, if the store clerk notices that the confirmed object commodity of another confirmed classification exists in the basket or the like, the store clerk can immediately perform the confirmation operation on the confirmed object commodity on the spot by asking the customer to perform the commodity registration operation of the confirmed object commodity.

[0101] As described above, when option 2 is selected in the self-service mode, the clerk will be called each time the target commodity is registered and confirmed. At this time, in the conventional settlement device, the cancellation of the corresponding registered commodity needs to be performed in the clerk mode by the clerk operation. In contrast, in the self-service POS terminal 1 of the present embodiment, the cancellation of the corresponding registered commodity is not performed in the clerk mode by the clerk operation, but can be directly performed in the self-service mode.

[0102] (2) When option 3 is selected

[0103] In this case, if Figure 8 As shown, the processor 31 first waits for commodity registration as ACT 301. This is the same as ACT 201 in Option 2.

[0104] If the processor 31 recognizes that the commodity registration is performed normally, it determines "yes" in ACT 301 and proceeds to ACT 302. As ACT 302, the processor 31 executes commodity sales data processing. This is the same as ACT 202 in Option 2.

[0105] When the commodity sales data processing is completed, the processor 31 confirms whether the registered purchased commodity is a confirmation target commodity as ACT 303. This is the same as ACT 203 in Option 2. If the purchased commodity is not a confirmation target commodity, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 303 and proceeds to ACT 304.

[0106] As ACT 304, the processor 31 confirms whether the next product registration has been performed. This is the same as ACT 204 in Option 2. If the product registration has not been performed, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 304 and proceeds to ACT 305. As ACT 305, the processor 31 confirms whether the checkout button 124 has been input. This is the same as ACT 205 in Option 2. If the checkout button 124 has not been input, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 305 and returns to ACT 304. Here, the processor 31 waits for the product registration to be performed or the checkout button 124 to be input in ACT 304 and ACT 305.

[0107] In the waiting state of ACT304 and ACT305, if it is detected that the product is registered, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT304 and returns to ACT302. In addition, in the waiting state of ACT304 and ACT305, when it is detected that the checkout key 124 is input, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT305 and enters ACT306. As ACT306, the processor 31 executes the checkout process. This is the same as ACT206 in option 2.

[0108] Thus, when the confirmation target product has not been purchased, the process is the same as in Option 2. On the other hand, when the confirmation target product has been purchased, the following information processing steps are performed.

[0109] That is, when the purchased product is a confirmation target product, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT303 and enters ACT307. As ACT307, the processor 31 determines whether it is the registration of the first product of the confirmation target product (determination unit). If it is the registration of the first product, a buttonless confirmation screen pops up. For example, it is determined whether it is the first product to confirm the confirmation category of the confirmation target product. In other words, the processor 31 determines whether the category of confirmation of the confirmation target product has not been confirmed by the clerk. Specifically, the processor 31 confirms that "0" or "1" is not set on the confirmation flag of the corresponding confirmation category in the confirmation result of each category of the transaction file 321, that is, whether the confirmation is empty. Based on the information of the mark of the category that the registered confirmation target product meets in the adult confirmation mark, the medicine confirmation mark, and the high-priced product confirmation mark, it is determined whether it is the registration of the first product of the confirmation target product (determination unit).

[0110] If the confirmation flag is not set, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 307 and proceeds to ACT 308. In ACT 308, the processor 31 pops up a no-key confirmation screen on the product registration screen displayed on the touch panel 12. This is the same as ACT 207 in Option 2.

[0111] If the no-key confirmation screen 122 is displayed in this manner, the processor 31 waits for the scanning of the store clerk's barcode as ACT 309. This is the same as ACT 208 in Option 2.

[0112] If the clerk barcode is scanned, processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 309 and proceeds to ACT 310. In ACT 310, processor 31 updates no-key confirmation screen 122 displayed on touch panel 12 to key confirmation screen 125. This is the same as ACT 209 in Option 2.

[0113] Then, as ACT 311, the processor 31 waits for operation of a key in the key confirmation screen 125. This is the same as ACT 210 in Option 2.

[0114] When a key in the key confirmation screen 125 is operated, the processor 31 confirms whether the operated key is the registration key 126 as ACT 312. This is the same as ACT 211 in Option 2.

[0115] When the registration button 126 is operated, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 312 and proceeds to ACT 313. As ACT 313, the processor 31 sets "0" to the confirmation flag for the corresponding confirmation type in the transaction file 321. If the confirmation flag is set in this way, the processor 31 proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 304.

[0116] On the other hand, when the unsaleable button 127 is operated, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 312 and proceeds to ACT 314. In ACT 314, the processor 31 cancels the registration of the confirmation target product. This is the same as ACT 212 in Option 2.

[0117] In this way, if the registration of the confirmation target product that is automatically set as unsaleable in the self-service mode is cancelled, the processor 31 sets "1" to the confirmation flag of the corresponding confirmation category in the transaction file 321 as ACT 315. If the confirmation flag is set in this way, the processor 31 proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 304.

[0118] In addition, if it is not the first commodity to be confirmed for the confirmation category of the confirmation object commodity, that is, the clerk has already confirmed the confirmation category of the confirmation object commodity, and "0" or "1" has been set on the confirmation flag of the corresponding confirmation category in the transaction file 321, the processor 31 determines "no" in ACT 307 and proceeds to ACT 315. As ACT 315, the processor 31 confirms whether the confirmation category of the confirmation object commodity is not for sale. This confirmation can be performed by confirming whether "1" is set in the confirmation flag of the corresponding confirmation category in the confirmation result of each category in the transaction file 321.

[0119] When "0" is set on the matching confirmation flag, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 315 and proceeds to the above ACT 304. That is, when the matching confirmation type is confirmed by the clerk and the sale is allowed, the processor 31 maintains the registration of the confirmed object product and accepts the registration of the next purchase product or the operation of the checkout button 124.

[0120] When "1" is set to the matching confirmation flag, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 315 and proceeds to the above ACT 308. That is, when the clerk confirms the matching confirmation type and prohibits the sale, the processor 31 accepts the clerk's confirmation again when the same product is registered again or when the confirmation target product of the same confirmation type is registered as another product.

[0121] As described above, according to the self-service POS terminal 1 in this embodiment, in option 3, as in option 2, even when the clerk is called to confirm that the target product is registered, the cancellation of the registered corresponding product can be carried out directly in the self-service mode without the clerk's operation.

[0122] Furthermore, in option 3, merchandise of a category that has been (once) confirmed by a store clerk as being saleable can be registered without reconfirmation by the store clerk.

[0123] In addition, in the conventional settlement device, when the cancellation of the confirmed object commodity is performed in the clerk mode by the clerk operation, once the clerk mode is entered, the sale confirmation is completed, and even if the self-service mode is restored after the cancellation operation of the clerk is completed, the confirmation of the confirmed object commodity is not performed in the future. That is, the confirmation screen is displayed when the first commodity of the confirmed object commodity is registered, but the confirmation screen is not displayed when the second commodity of the confirmed object commodity is registered, and the commodity can be registered. In the case where the confirmed object commodity is not sellable, the clerk cancels the registered commodity in the clerk mode when confirming when registering the first commodity, and if there are other target commodities, they are collected together. Therefore, in the conventional settlement device, it is impossible to deal with the situation of missing the collection of commodities and bringing in additional commodities later. In contrast, in the self-service POS terminal 1 of this embodiment, for commodities of a category that was once confirmed as not sellable by the clerk, the clerk's confirmation is reliably implemented every time when it is registered again or for other commodities of the same category, so such an undesirable situation will not occur.

[0124] (3) When option 4 is selected

[0125] At this time, if Fig. 9 As shown, the processor 31 first waits for commodity registration as ACT 401. This is the same as ACT 201 in Option 2.

[0126] If the processor 31 recognizes that the commodity registration is performed normally, it determines "yes" in ACT 401 and proceeds to ACT 402. As ACT 402, the processor 31 executes commodity sales data processing. This is the same as ACT 202 in Option 2.

[0127] When the commodity sales data processing is completed, as ACT403, the processor 31 confirms whether the next commodity registration has been performed. This is the same as ACT204 in Option 2. In the case where the commodity registration has not been performed, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT403 and enters ACT404. As ACT404, the processor 31 confirms whether the checkout button 124 has been input. This is the same as ACT205 in Option 2. In the case where the checkout button 124 has not been input, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT404 and returns to ACT403. Here, the processor 31 waits for the commodity registration to be performed or the checkout button 124 to be input in ACT403 and ACT404.

[0128] In the waiting state of ACT 403 and ACT 404, if the product registration is detected, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 403 and returns to ACT 402. In addition, in the waiting state of ACT 403 and ACT 404, when the checkout key 124 is detected to be input, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 404 and enters ACT 405.

[0129] The processor 31 checks whether there is a confirmation target product among the registered purchased products as ACT 405. Specifically, the processor 31 checks the purchased product data registered in the transaction file 321 one by one to check whether there is a product with a certain confirmation category stored as a confirmation category.

[0130] If there is no confirmed product among the purchased products, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 405 and proceeds to ACT 406. As ACT 406, the processor 31 executes the checkout process. This is the same as ACT 206 in Option 2.

[0131] On the other hand, if there is a confirmation target product among the purchased products, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 405 and proceeds to ACT 407. In this case, since the checkout process of ACT 406 is not entered, the touch panel 12 does not display the payment method selection screen, the checkout screen, or the product registration screen. As ACT 407, the processor 31 pops up and displays the no-key confirmation screen on the product registration screen displayed on the touch panel 12. This is the same as ACT 207 in Option 2.

[0132] If the no-key confirmation screen 122 is displayed in this way, the processor 31 waits for the scanning of the store clerk's barcode as ACT 408. This is the same as ACT 208 in Option 2.

[0133] If the clerk barcode is scanned, processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 408 and proceeds to ACT 409. In ACT 409, processor 31 updates no-key confirmation screen 122 displayed on touch panel 12 to key confirmation screen 125. This is the same as ACT 209 in Option 2.

[0134] Then, as ACT 410, the processor 31 waits for operation of a key in the key confirmation screen 125. This is the same as ACT 210 in Option 2.

[0135] When a key in the key confirmation screen 125 is operated, the processor 31 confirms whether the operated key is the registration key 126 as ACT 411. This is the same as ACT 211 in Option 2.

[0136] When the registration button 126 is operated, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 411 and proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 406. That is, the processor 31 assumes that the sale of the confirmation target product is approved and proceeds to the checkout process.

[0137] On the other hand, when the sales disabled button 127 is operated, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 411 and proceeds to ACT 412. In ACT 412, the processor 31 shifts from the self-service mode to the store clerk mode.

[0138] If the mode is shifted to the store clerk mode, the processor 31 executes the cancellation process of the confirmed product based on the store clerk operation in the store clerk mode as ACT 413. Here, not only the confirmed product is not the product that has just been registered, but also there are cases where multiple types of confirmed products are registered in the same confirmation category, so it is difficult to perform the automatic cancellation process of the processor 31. Therefore, the reliable cancellation operation of the store clerk is accepted. The product cancellation process based on the store clerk operation in ACT 413 ends by the prescribed store clerk operation.

[0139] When the merchandise cancellation process based on the store clerk's operation is completed, the processor 31 returns from the store clerk mode to the self-service mode as ACT 414. Then, the processor 31 proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 406.

[0140] As described above, when option 4 is selected in the self-service mode, the existence of the confirmation target commodity is not confirmed when registering the commodity of the purchased commodity, and even if it is a confirmation target commodity, it is directly registered. Then, in response to the pressing of the checkout button 124 for settlement, it is determined whether the confirmation target commodity is registered, and if the confirmation target commodity exists, the clerk is called. In the conventional settlement device, in the state where the confirmation target commodity has been registered, if there is a response in the clerk mode for a certain process until the checkout button 124 is pressed, the sale confirmation is completed by entering the clerk mode once. Therefore, in the conventional settlement device, after the clerk's response in the clerk mode is completed, when the self-service mode is restored and the checkout button 124 is pressed, the confirmation screen for the confirmation target commodity is not displayed, and the unsaleable commodity is sold. In contrast, in the self-service POS terminal 1 of the present embodiment, even if there is a response in the clerk mode for a certain process until the checkout button 124 is pressed, the clerk's confirmation can be reliably implemented, so such an undesirable situation does not occur.

[0141] As described above, the self-service POS terminal 1 as the settlement device of the first embodiment is a settlement device that can operate in a first operation mode, namely, a self-service mode, in which an operation corresponding to an operation of a customer is performed, and in a second operation mode, namely, a second operation mode, in which an operation corresponding to an operation of a clerk is performed. The processor 31 of the self-service POS terminal 1 displays a non-key confirmation screen 122 and a key confirmation screen 125 on the touch panel 12 when a confirmation target commodity is input in the self-service mode. The non-key confirmation screen 122 is a confirmation screen for calling a clerk, and the key confirmation screen 125 is a selection screen for the clerk to select whether to sell the confirmation target commodity. Therefore, the processor 31 constitutes a first display unit that displays a confirmation screen for calling a clerk when a confirmation target commodity is input in the first mode, and a second display unit that displays a selection screen for the clerk to select whether to sell the confirmation target commodity.

[0142] In this way, according to the self-service POS terminal 1 as the settlement device of the first embodiment, in a settlement system based on a fully self-service method in which customers register the purchase of goods, when the confirmed object product is input, the clerk can be called to allow the clerk to choose whether to sell it, so that the clerk can reliably confirm the confirmed object product.

[0143] In addition, when the processor 31 performs a registration operation of a purchased product by a customer's operation in the self-service mode, the purchased product is registered in the transaction file 321. Therefore, the processor 31 constitutes a registration unit that registers the purchased product by the customer's operation in the first mode. Furthermore, when the processor 31 selects options 2 and 3 of the self-service mode, when the confirmation target product is registered by the customer's operation, the touch panel 12 displays the buttonless confirmation screen 122.

[0144] Therefore, according to the self-service POS terminal 1 in the first embodiment, when registering purchased commodities, the clerk can reliably confirm the confirmation target commodity.

[0145] Furthermore, when options 2 and 3 of the self-service mode are selected, the processor 31 cancels the registration of the confirmation target commodity from the transaction file 321 in accordance with the clerk's operation of the non-sale button 127 in the button confirmation screen 125. Therefore, the processor 31 constitutes a canceling unit that cancels the registration of the purchased commodity as the confirmation target commodity in accordance with the clerk's selection of non-sale of the confirmation target commodity in the selection screen in the first mode.

[0146] Therefore, according to the self-service POS terminal 1 in the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent the confirmation target commodity from being sold to a customer who is not a target for sale.

[0147] Furthermore, when option 3 of the self-service mode is selected, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 12 to display the buttonless confirmation screen 122 even when the confirmation target product selected as unsaleable by the store clerk is registered as a purchase product again.

[0148] Therefore, according to the self-service POS terminal 1 in the first embodiment, it is possible to reliably prevent the clerk from missing confirmation when re-registering the confirmation target commodity that was once set as unsalable.

[0149] In addition, in the self-service mode, when the purchase commodity is registered by the customer's operation, the processor 31 registers the purchase commodity in the transaction file 321, and in response to the customer's operation of the checkout button 124, settles the purchase commodity registered in the transaction file 321. Therefore, the processor 31 constitutes a registration unit that registers the purchase commodity by the customer's operation in the first mode and a settlement unit that settles the registered purchase commodity. In addition, when option 4 of the self-service mode is selected, the processor 31 confirms whether the purchase commodity registered in the transaction file 321 as the settlement object includes the confirmation object commodity, and if the confirmation object commodity is included, the touch panel 12 displays the buttonless confirmation screen 122.

[0150] Therefore, according to the self-service POS terminal 1 of the first embodiment, when the payment of purchased commodities is to be made, the clerk can reliably confirm the confirmation target commodity.

[0151] Furthermore, when option 4 of the self-service mode is selected, the processor 31 temporarily shifts to the store clerk mode according to the store clerk's operation of the non-saleable button 127 in the button confirmation screen 125, and cancels the confirmed object commodity from the settlement object in the transaction file 321 according to the store clerk's operation in the store clerk mode. Therefore, the processor 31 constitutes a canceling unit, which temporarily shifts to the second operation mode when the store clerk selects the non-saleable confirmed object commodity in the selection screen in the first mode, and cancels the purchased commodity as the confirmed object commodity from the settlement object according to the store clerk's operation in the second operation mode.

[0152] Therefore, according to the self-service POS terminal 1 in the first embodiment, it is possible to reliably cancel the confirmation target commodity in the store clerk mode.

[0153] [Second embodiment]

[0154] Fig.10This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a settlement system based on a fully self-service method in the second embodiment. In addition to multiple self-service POS terminals 1 and store servers 2, the settlement system also includes a service terminal 4. The service terminal 4 displays a list of purchased goods registered for each self-service POS terminal 1 on a display device. In addition, when an error occurs in the self-service POS terminal 1, the service terminal 4 notifies the error information. The store clerk operating the service terminal 4, the so-called attendant, monitors each self-service POS terminal 1 based on the information displayed and notified in the service terminal 4. It should be noted that in Fig.10 In the embodiment, the number of service terminals 4 is set to one, but a plurality of service terminals 4 may be connected to the communication network 3. In addition, at least one of the service terminals 4 may be set up on another floor of the store such as a back office, a help desk, etc. Such a service terminal 4 located far from the self-service POS terminal 1 can also notify the error information from the self-service POS terminal 1 via the communication network 3. Therefore, even a store clerk in a place where the self-service POS terminal 1 cannot be directly confirmed can monitor the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0155] The configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1 as the settlement device of the second embodiment in such a settlement system is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

[0156] It should be noted that the self-service POS terminal 1 in this embodiment can perform actions in three action modes, namely, remote clerk mode as a third action mode corresponding to remote operations of a clerk from a service terminal 4, in addition to the self-service mode as the first action mode and the clerk mode as the second action mode described in the first embodiment.

[0157] Below, refer to Fig.11 and Fig.12 The operation of the self-service POS terminal 1 in the second embodiment will be described. Fig.11 1 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor 31 of the self-service POS terminal 1 when option 2 is selected. Fig.12 4 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing performed by the processor 31 when option 4 is selected. It should be noted that the same actions as those in the first embodiment are performed by adding Figure 4 and Fig. 9 The same reference numerals are used and their description is omitted.

[0158] (1) When option 2 is selected

[0159] like Fig.11As shown, in the case where the purchased product is a confirmation target product, after the non-key confirmation screen 122 is popped up and displayed on the touch panel 12 in ACT 207, the processor 31 sends a key confirmation screen to the service terminal 4 via the communication network 3 as ACT 121. The key confirmation screen can be the same as the key confirmation screen 125. However, a part of the key confirmation screen includes specific information for identifying the self-service POS terminal 1. In the service terminal 4 that receives the key confirmation screen, the key confirmation screen including the specific information for identifying the self-service POS terminal 1 is displayed on the display device. Therefore, the key confirmation screen sent from the self-service POS terminal 1 is one of the error messages for notifying the occurrence of an error in the self-service POS terminal 1. It should be noted that although the screen is sent here, it can also be set to send error information, analyze the error information in the service terminal 4, detect the occurrence of the confirmation target product registration in the self-service POS terminal 1, and generate and display the key confirmation screen on the service terminal 4 side.

[0160] When the button confirmation screen is sent, the processor 31 waits for receiving operation button information from the service terminal 4 via the communication network 3 as ACT 222. The operation button information is sent from the service terminal 4 according to the operation of the registration button or the non-sale button in the button confirmation screen of the service terminal 4 by the store clerk.

[0161] The clerk who has confirmed the button confirmation screen displayed on the display device of the service terminal 4 rushes to the corresponding self-service POS terminal 1 to confirm matters that should be confirmed by the customer, such as the customer's age. The clerk who has confirmed the confirmation matters returns to the service terminal 4 and operates the registration button or the non-sale button in the button confirmation screen according to the confirmation result.

[0162] It should be noted that, if the confirmation result is that the product is not sellable, the clerk will collect the confirmed product before returning to the service terminal 4. In addition, if the same confirmed product exists in the basket placed on the basket table 30, the clerk will also collect it. In addition, if there are other products of the same confirmation classification, these are also collected by the clerk. In addition, if the clerk notices that the confirmed product of other confirmation classification exists in the basket, the clerk will also confirm the confirmation classification with the customer, and if it is confirmed that the product is not sellable, these products can also be collected.

[0163] When receiving the operation key information, the processor 31 determines “YES” in ACT 222 and proceeds to ACT 223 .

[0164] As ACT 223, the processor 31 checks whether the received operation key information is registration key information corresponding to the operation of the registration key. If it is registration key information, the processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 223 and proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 204.

[0165] On the other hand, when it is not registered key information, that is, when the received operation key information is non-saleable key information corresponding to the operation of the non-saleable key, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 223 and proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT 212.

[0166] It should be noted that, as described above, when confirming the confirmation category of the confirmation target commodity based on the display of the button confirmation screen, the confirmation target commodities of other confirmation categories are noted and the confirmation of the confirmation categories is also performed. If it is confirmed that they are not sellable, the clerk also collects these commodities. On the other hand, if it is confirmed that they can be sold, the confirmation target commodity is left with the customer, and the commodity is registered, and the button confirmation screen for the confirmation target commodity is displayed on the service terminal 4. In this case, since the confirmation has been performed, the clerk can immediately operate the registration button without having to go to the self-service POS terminal 1, that is, the customer.

[0167] (2) When option 3 is selected

[0168] In this case, only Figure 8 ACT309 to ACT312 are replaced by Fig.11 The actions of ACT221 to ACT223 are omitted, so their description is omitted.

[0169] (3) When option 4 is selected

[0170] like Fig.12 As shown, when there is a confirmation target product among the purchased products, after the no-key confirmation screen 122 is popped up on the touch panel 12 in ACT 407, the processor 31 sends the key confirmation screen to the service terminal 4 via the communication network 3 as ACT 421. This is the same as ACT 221 in Option 2.

[0171] If the key confirmation screen is transmitted in this way, the processor 31 waits for receiving the operation key information from the service terminal 4 via the communication network 3 as ACT 422. This is the same as ACT 222 in Option 2.

[0172] The clerk who has confirmed the button confirmation screen displayed on the display device of the service terminal 4 rushes to the corresponding self-service POS terminal 1 to confirm matters that should be confirmed by the customer, such as the customer's age. The clerk who has confirmed the confirmation matters returns to the service terminal 4 and operates the registration button or the non-sale button in the button confirmation screen according to the confirmation result.

[0173] It should be noted that, if the result of the confirmation is that the product is not saleable, the clerk will collect the confirmed product before returning to the service terminal 4. In addition, if the same confirmed product exists in the basket placed on the basket table 30, the clerk will also collect it. In addition, if there are other products of the same confirmed category, these are also collected by the clerk. In addition, if the clerk notices that the confirmed product of other confirmed categories exists in the basket, the clerk will also confirm the confirmed category with the customer, and if it is confirmed that the product is not saleable, these products can also be collected.

[0174] When receiving the operation key information, the processor 31 determines “Yes” in ACT 422 and proceeds to ACT 423 .

[0175] As ACT 423, processor 31 checks whether the received operation key information is registration key information corresponding to the operation of the registration key. This is the same as ACT 223 in Option 2. If the key information is registration key information, processor 31 determines "yes" in ACT 423 and proceeds to ACT 406.

[0176] On the other hand, if the received operation key information is not registered key information, that is, if the received operation key information is non-sale key information corresponding to the operation of the non-sale key, the processor 31 determines "No" in ACT 423 and proceeds to ACT 424. In ACT 424, the processor 31 shifts from the self-service mode to the remote clerk mode.

[0177] If the mode is shifted to the remote clerk mode, the processor 31 executes the commodity cancellation process based on the remote clerk operation as ACT 425. The commodity cancellation process based on the remote clerk operation is a process in which the clerk operates the service terminal 4 to cancel the purchased commodity in the self-service POS terminal 1. The commodity cancellation process based on the remote clerk operation in ACT 425 ends by the predetermined clerk operation at the service terminal 4.

[0178] When the commodity cancellation process based on the remote clerk's operation is completed, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 414 described above.

[0179] As described above, in the first embodiment, when it is confirmed that the target commodity is not sellable, the clerk cancels it at the self-service POS terminal 1 as the settlement device, but in the second embodiment, the cancellation can be performed at the service terminal 4 .

[0180] For example, although option 2 does not use confirmation marks such as an adult confirmation mark, a medicine confirmation mark, and a high-priced commodity confirmation mark, they may be stored in the same manner as option 3.

[0181] In addition, in the above embodiment, the commodities that need to be confirmed whether they can be sold are regarded as the confirmation object commodities, but it is not limited to this. For example, when providing discounts to the elderly, the clerk is also required to confirm the age of the customer. In this way, the discount object commodities can also be regarded as the confirmation object commodities, and whether the discount is required is determined based on the confirmation result instead of determining whether the sale can be made.

[0182] In the second embodiment, a button confirmation screen is sent to the service terminal 4 and displayed, and the clerk's operation of the registration button or the unregistration button in the service terminal 4 is accepted. In option 4, the cancellation process from the service terminal 4 is implemented in the remote clerk mode, but the service terminal 4 may only display the button-free confirmation screen. That is, the service terminal 4 may be added to the first embodiment, and when there is a commodity to be confirmed, the light emitting unit 13 may be used to request the clerk to confirm, and the service terminal 4 may also be used to request the clerk to confirm.

[0183] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention, but the above embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above new embodiments and modified examples can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, and combinations can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. The above embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the schemes recorded in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A settlement device capable of operating in a first operation mode in which an operation corresponding to an operation of a customer is performed and in a second operation mode in which an operation corresponding to an operation of a clerk is performed, wherein: The settlement device comprises: In the first action mode, A first display unit, which displays a confirmation screen for calling the store clerk when a confirmation target commodity is input; and The second display unit displays a selection screen for the store clerk to select whether or not the confirmation target product can be sold.

2. The settlement device according to claim 1, wherein: further comprising a registration unit for registering the purchase of goods by the operation of the customer in the first operation mode, The first display unit displays the confirmation screen when the confirmation target commodity is registered as the purchase commodity by the registration unit.

3. The settlement device according to claim 2, wherein: The store further includes a canceling unit that cancels the registration of the purchased product as the confirmation target product based on the clerk's selection of non-saleability of the confirmation target product on the selection screen displayed on the second display unit in the first operation mode.

4. The settlement device according to claim 3, wherein: The first display unit also displays the confirmation screen when the confirmation target commodity selected as unsaleable by the store clerk is registered again as the purchase commodity by the registration unit.

5. The settlement device according to claim 1, wherein: Also available: In the first action mode, a registration section that registers the purchase of goods through the operation of the customer; and a settlement unit for settling the purchased goods registered by the registration unit, The first display unit displays the confirmation screen when the purchased products to be settled by the settlement unit include the confirmation target product.

6. The settlement device according to claim 5, wherein: The invention further comprises a cancelling unit which temporarily shifts to the second action mode when the clerk selects in the selection screen displayed by the second display unit that the confirmed object product is not saleable in the first action mode, and cancels the purchased product as the confirmed object product from the settlement object based on the clerk's operation in the second action mode.

7. The settlement device according to claim 1, wherein: further comprising a registration unit for registering the purchase of goods by the operation of the customer in the first operation mode, The registration unit stores the purchased commodity data of the registered purchased commodity in a transaction file, The products to be confirmed include products with age restrictions, products that require a doctor's prescription, and high-priced products that are determined by the store itself. The transaction file stores the purchased product data, the adult confirmation mark, the medicine confirmation mark, and the high-priced product confirmation mark corresponding to the transaction number.

8. The settlement device according to claim 7, wherein: The device further comprises an option setting unit for selecting a confirmation option related to the clerk's confirmation of the confirmation target commodity. The option setting unit sets option 2 for confirmation with the intervention of a store clerk every time a confirmation target commodity is registered and option 3 for confirmation with the intervention of a store clerk only when the first commodity of the confirmation target commodity is registered.

9. The settlement device according to claim 8, wherein: The system further comprises a determination unit for determining whether the registration of the first commodity of the confirmation target commodity is a registration of the first commodity of the confirmation target commodity when the confirmation target commodity is registered in the state where the option 3 is set. When the determination unit determines that the first commodity is to be registered, the first display unit displays a confirmation screen.

10. The settlement device according to claim 9, wherein: The determination unit determines whether the first product of the confirmation target product is registered based on information of a flag to which the registered confirmation target product matches among the adult confirmation flag, the medicine confirmation flag, and the high-priced product confirmation flag.

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