Commodity sales data processing device and storage medium

Abstract

The invention discloses a commodity sales data processing device and a storage medium, which can improve the convenience of settlement processing. The commodity sales data processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes a registration unit, a determination unit, a designation unit, and a control unit. And a registration unit that registers, in the storage unit, a plurality of types of designation information relating to the designation of the user. And a determination unit that determines, from among the plurality of types, a type of a plurality of specifying information for specifying the user. And a specifying unit that specifies the user on the basis of specifying information corresponding to each of the determined types of the plurality of specifying information and input information input by the user corresponding to each of the types of the plurality of specifying information. And a control unit which allows the user to use the service related to the commodity transaction when the designation unit has designated the user.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from a Japanese application with an application date of December 25, 2023 and an application number of JP2023-218552, and incorporates the content of the above application by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a merchandise sales data processing device and a storage medium. Background Art

[0003] Currently, a semi-self-service merchandise sales data processing system is known, where a store clerk uses a registration machine to perform merchandise registration operations, and a customer uses a checkout machine to settle the merchandise that has been registered. On the other hand, a fully self-service merchandise sales data processing system where the customer performs both merchandise registration operations and settlement operations is also becoming increasingly popular.

[0004] In such semi-self-service or fully self-service systems, typically, the checkout machine calls up the merchandise registration information that has been processed by the registration machine for the merchandise, and performs settlement processing based on this merchandise registration information.

[0005] When a customer uses a payment medium other than cash for settlement operations on a merchandise sales data processing device such as a checkout machine, the customer designates the payment medium (credit card, electronic money card, information terminal for electronic money or code settlement, debit card, points card, prepaid card, etc.). Then, the customer causes the reading device to read the information stored in the designated payment medium, and the merchandise sales data processing device uses this information for settlement processing. In addition, the reading device reads a membership card or the like that is common to the payment medium.

[0006] Thus, there are currently situations where an operation of reading information from a payment medium is required during settlement processing. Such an operation may impede the smooth progress of settlement processing.

[0007] In addition, due to the increasing awareness of security in recent years, there is a demand for settlement methods that ensure a high level of security. However, such methods are limited to several methods such as biometric authentication, and currently, there are not many options for settlement methods that ensure a high level of security. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In view of the above problems, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a merchandise sales data processing device and a storage medium that improve the convenience of settlement processing.

[0009] To solve the above problems, the merchandise sales data processing device of the embodiment includes a registration unit, a determination unit, a designation unit, and a control unit. The registration unit registers multiple types of designation information related to a designated user in a storage unit. The determination unit determines, from among the multiple types, the types of the multiple pieces of designation information for the designated user. The designation unit designates the user based on the designation information corresponding to each of the types of the determined multiple types of designation information and the input information input by the user corresponding to each of the types of the multiple types of designation information. When a user has been designated by the designation unit, the control unit permits the user to utilize services related to merchandise transactions.

[0010] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing device, it is possible to execute utilization of services related to merchandise transactions without reading a medium.

[0011] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing device, the control unit suppresses utilization of the service when the designation unit cannot designate a user.

[0012] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing device, it is possible to prohibit utilization of the service when the determined multiple types of designation information do not match.

[0013] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing device, the registration unit registers the multiple types of the designation information in association with information indicating the available services, and the control unit permits utilization of the services associated with the designation information when a user has been designated by the designation unit.

[0014] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing device, a user can utilize related services.

[0015] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing device, the determination unit randomly determines the number of types of the designation information for designating the user.

[0016] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing device, it is possible to randomly determine the number of types of designation information each time services related to merchandise transactions are utilized.

[0017] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, the registration unit associates and registers first quantity information indicating the number of types of the plurality of specified information for specifying a user with the specified information. The merchandise sales data processing apparatus further includes: an acquisition unit that, when starting to use the service, acquires second quantity information for using the service from the user. Among them, the determination unit determines the number of types of the specified information for specifying the user based on the second quantity information. The control unit suppresses the specified user from using the service even when a user has been specified by the specifying unit and when the first quantity information and the second quantity information do not match.

[0018] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, it is possible to prohibit the use of the service when the registered first quantity information cannot be acquired.

[0019] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, the specified information includes first information of a plurality of types that can uniquely specify the user and second information of a plurality of types related to the authentication of the user set by the user. The determination unit determines the type of the first information as at least one type of the types of the plurality of specified information.

[0020] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, it is possible to accurately specify the user by using the first information that uniquely specifies the user.

[0021] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, the information indicating the available service is code information or number information for specifying a payment medium used by a customer in the payment for purchasing a commodity.

[0022] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, it is possible to perform settlement processing by using the information specifying the payment medium without reading the payment medium.

[0023] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, it further includes: an acquisition unit that, when starting to use the service, acquires second quantity information for using the service from the user. Among them, the determination unit determines the number of types of the specified information for specifying the user based on the second quantity information.

[0024] According to the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, the user can specify the number of types of the specified information.

[0025] In the above-described merchandise sales data processing apparatus, the acquisition unit displays, on a display, a quantity input screen including a message prompting the input of the registered quantity and a form for inputting a numerical value.

[0026] According to the above-mentioned merchandise sales data processing device, the registered quantity can be input by the user.

[0027] Another aspect of the present invention is a storage medium storing a program that causes a computer of a merchandise sales data processing device to function as the following units: a registration unit that registers multiple types of specified information related to the specification of a user in a storage unit; a determination unit that determines, from the multiple types, the types of the multiple specified information used to specify the user; a specification unit that specifies the user based on the specified information corresponding to each of the types of the determined multiple specified information types and input information input by the user corresponding to each of the types of the multiple specified information types; and a control unit that, when a user has been specified by the specification unit, allows the user to use services related to merchandise transactions.

[0028] According to the above-mentioned storage medium, it is possible to provide a computer with a function of using services related to merchandise transactions without reading the medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration status of the merchandise sales data processing system according to the embodiment in a store.

[0030] Figure 2 It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the connection relationship of the merchandise sales data processing system according to the embodiment.

[0031] Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the registration machine according to the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the checkout machine according to the embodiment.

[0033] Figure 5 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the registration machine according to the embodiment.

[0034] Figure 6 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the store server according to the embodiment.

[0035] Figure 7 It is a memory map showing an example of the memory structure of the member information department according to the embodiment.

[0036] Figure 8 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the customer server according to the embodiment.

[0037] Figure 9 It is a memory map showing an example of the memory structure of the member management department according to the embodiment.

[0038] Figure 10 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the cash register related to the embodiment.

[0039] Figure 11 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the membership registration terminal related to the embodiment.

[0040] Figure 12 It is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing flow among the registration machine, store server, customer server, and cash register related to the embodiment.

[0041] Figure 13 It is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional structure of the registration machine, store server, customer server, and cash register related to the embodiment.

[0042] Figure 14 It is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing flow of the membership registration terminal related to the embodiment.

[0043] Figure 15 It is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing flow of the registration machine related to the embodiment.

[0044] Figure 16 It is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing flow of the store server related to the embodiment.

[0045] Figure 17 It is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing flow of the customer server related to the embodiment.

[0046] Figure 18 It is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing flow of the cash register related to the embodiment.

[0047] Figure 19 It is a diagram showing an example of the media selection screen displayed by the cash register related to the embodiment to member A.

[0048] Figure 20 It is a diagram showing an example of the media selection screen displayed by the cash register related to the embodiment to member B.

[0049] Explanation of reference numerals

[0050] 1 Commodity sales data processing system 3 Store server 4 Member registration terminal 5 Customer server 7 Registration machine 9 Checkout machine 48 Operation unit 49 Camera 77 Operation unit 81 Camera 82 Scanner 83 Card reader 96 Operation unit 97 Display 99 Card reader 101 Camera 106 Card reader 300 Control unit 301 Storage control unit 302 Quantity receiving unit 307 Inquiry unit 308 Member receiving unit 309 Registration specifying unit 310 Settlement sending unit 331 Sales information unit 332 Member information unit 400 Control unit 431 Member registration unit 500 Control unit 501 Quantity receiving unit 502 Combination determination unit 503 Combination sending unit 504 Inquiry receiving unit 505 Member specifying unit 506 Member sending unit 531 Member management unit 700 Control unit 701 Member input unit 702 Commodity registration unit 703 Registration sending unit 731 Commodity information unit 732 Member number unit 772 Sending key 900 Control unit 901 Quantity acquisition unit 902 Quantity sending unit 903 Combination receiving unit 904 Authentication acquisition unit 905 Authentication sending unit 906 Settlement receiving unit 907 Selection unit 908 Settlement processing unit 931 Authentication information unit 932 Quantity information unit 933 Commodity registration information unit 934 Medium storage unit 3321 Member number unit 3322 Commodity registration information unit 3323 Payment medium unit 5311 Member number unit 5312 Authentication information unit 5313 Quantity information unit 5314 Payment medium unit T Store. Detailed implementation manners

[0051] Next, an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the following embodiments, examples of applying this embodiment in a fully self-service checkout system or a semi-self-service checkout system used in stores such as supermarkets will be described. Furthermore, in the embodiment, the commodity sales data processing system includes a registration machine, a store server, and a checkout machine.

[0052] In addition, in the embodiment, a member number will be used as an example of the member specifying information for specifying a member. The member number is information for specifying a member and is issued by the store or the enterprise operating the store when the customer becomes a member. The member number is, for example, magnetically stored or electrically stored in a membership card. In addition, the member number can be printed on the membership card as a code symbol.

[0053] In addition, the embodiment does not limit the present invention. For example, the commodity sales data processing system may include at least a registration machine and a checkout machine. The checkout machine is an example of the commodity sales data processing device in the present disclosure. Furthermore, the commodity sales data processing device may be composed of an independent device integrating the registration machine and the checkout machine. In addition, the member specifying information may also be information for specifying a member other than the member number. For example, the member specifying information may be a member code issued by the store or the enterprise operating the store.

[0054] Figure 1It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration status of the merchandise sales data processing system 1 (refer to Figure 2 ) in store T. As shown in Figure 1 , store T has a merchandise sales area Ta, a back office Tb, a merchandise registration area Tc, and a checkout area Td.

[0055] The merchandise sales area Ta displays the merchandise sold in the store. While customers move in the merchandise sales area Ta, they put the items to be purchased into a shopping basket or a trolley, etc. The store server 3 is set in the back office Tb.

[0056] The merchandise registration area Tc is set adjacent to the merchandise sales area Ta. One or more registration machines 7 are set in the merchandise registration area Tc. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the registration machine 7 is operated by the store clerk. However, the registration machine 7 can be operated by the customer. The checkout area Td is set near the exit of store T. One or more checkout machines 9 are set in the checkout area Td. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the checkout machine 9 is operated by the customer.

[0057] In addition, the number of registration machines 7 set in the merchandise registration area Tc and the number of checkout machines 9 set in the checkout area Td can be the same or different. In addition, although the customer server 5 is set inside store T, it can also be set outside store T (for example, a cloud server). By setting the customer server 5 outside store T, compared with the case where the customer server 5 is set inside store T, the security related to customer information, etc. can be improved.

[0058] When a customer enters store T, the customer selects the merchandise to be purchased in the merchandise sales area Ta. When the customer finishes shopping, the customer moves to the merchandise registration area Tc. In the merchandise registration area Tc, the store clerk or the customer uses the registration machine 7 to perform a merchandise registration operation on the merchandise to be purchased by the customer.

[0059] The registration machine 7 performs a merchandise registration process on the merchandise for which the merchandise registration operation has been performed. When the merchandise registration processes for all the merchandise to be purchased are completed, the customer carries the merchandise and moves to any checkout machine 9. The customer who has moved to the checkout machine 9 performs the checkout operation by himself / herself.

[0060] When the checkout operation is performed, the checkout machine 9 performs a settlement process on the merchandise for which the merchandise registration process has been performed. The customer who has completed the checkout carries the merchandise and leaves store T. In addition, the back office Tb is usually an area where customers cannot enter, for example, an area in store T where business processes, etc. are carried out.

[0061] Next, the connection relationships among the store server 3, the membership registration terminal 4, the customer server 5, the registration machine 7, and the checkout machine 9 will be described. Figure 2This is an explanatory diagram showing the connection relationships of the devices in store T that include the merchandise sales data processing system 1. The store server 3, the membership registration terminal 4, the customer server 5, the registration machine 7, and the checkout machine 9 are connected via a communication line L such as a LAN (Local Area Network), and can communicate with each other.

[0062] The registration machine 7 captures images of the merchandise or the code symbols (barcodes, QR codes, etc.) attached to the merchandise (hereinafter collectively referred to as "merchandise images"). Then, the registration machine 7 uses known general object recognition (object recognition, package recognition, etc.) to specify the merchandise from the captured merchandise images, and obtains a merchandise code (an example of merchandise specification information).

[0063] In addition, the scanner 82 is a scanning-type scanner that obtains a merchandise code by scanning the code symbols (such as barcodes, QR codes, etc.) attached to the merchandise and decoding the received laser.

[0064] Furthermore, the registration machine 7 performs merchandise registration processing related to the merchandise based on the obtained merchandise code. The so-called merchandise registration processing includes reading the merchandise specification information (merchandise name, merchandise price, etc.) of the merchandise based on the read merchandise code, and displaying it on the operator's display 78 (see Figure 3 ) and the customer display 79, and at the same time storing the merchandise specification information in the merchandise information section 731 (see Figure 5 ).

[0065] In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the merchandise specification information displayed on the operator's display 78 is viewed by the store clerk. However, the merchandise specification information can also be viewed by the customer. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the operator (operator) includes the store clerk or the customer.

[0066] Furthermore, the registration machine 7 reads out the membership number of the specified member from the membership card and stores it in the membership number section 732 (see Figure 5 ). The membership card is issued to the members who have undergone membership registration described later. The membership card has the function of an integral card for storing the points issued by the store.

[0067] In addition, the registration machine 7 sends the merchandise registration information of the merchandise that has undergone the merchandise registration processing to the store server 3. When the membership number is stored in the membership number section 732, the registration machine 7 associates the membership number with the merchandise registration information and sends it to the store server 3.

[0068] The store server 3 manages the sales of the merchandise sold in store T. The store server 3 manages the sales of the merchandise sold in store T based on the merchandise registration information and the settlement information (collectively referred to as "sales data") received from the checkout machine 9.

[0069] In addition, the store server 3 stores the member number received from the registration machine 7 in association with the product registration information. In addition, the store server 3 sends the authentication information received from the checkout machine 9 to the customer server 5, and stores the member number and payment medium information associated with the authentication information received from the customer server 5 in association with the previously stored member number.

[0070] That is, the store server 3 stores the product registration information and the payment medium information in association with the member number. In addition to the above, the store server 3 may store the point information indicating the number of points accumulated by the customer using the membership card in association with the member number. In this case, the points can be used to purchase products. For example, one point can be exchanged for one Japanese yen and can be used as the full or partial amount for purchasing products.

[0071] The payment medium information is code information or number information that is pre-registered by the customer and designates the payment medium (medium) used for the customer to pay for the purchased products (settlement process). The payment medium information can also be said to be information indicating the available settlement services, and thus is an example of information indicating the available services. The customer registers the payment medium used for payment when registering as a member or after registering as a member.

[0072] Payment media that can be registered are, for example, credit cards (company-specific credit cards, such as credit card A issued by Company A, credit card B issued by Company B, etc.), electronic money (company-specific electronic money, such as electronic money A issued by Company A, electronic money B issued by Company B, etc.), and code settlement (a settlement method using an application stored on a smart mobile phone, information terminal, etc.).

[0073] As an example, there are code settlements (company-specific code settlements, such as code settlement A issued by Company A, code settlement B issued by Company B, etc.), debit cards (company-specific debit cards, such as debit card A issued by Company A, debit card B issued by Company B, etc.), prepaid cards (company-specific prepaid cards, such as prepaid card A issued by Company A, prepaid card B issued by Company B, etc.).

[0074] In addition, when the membership card also has the function of a point card, it can also be registered as a payment medium that can use the membership card. In this way, since the payment medium pre-registered by the member can be used as a settlement medium, the payment media that each member can use may be different. In addition, the payment media that can be registered may also be payment media other than the above-mentioned cash that can be used for payment.

[0075] The customer server 5, being a server different from the store server 3, is set outside the store T (e.g., the headquarters of an enterprise). The customer server 5 is, for example, a cloud server. The customer server 5 associates and stores the authentication information and payment medium information of the customer with the membership number.

[0076] The authentication information (an example of the specified information) is multiple information that can uniquely specify a customer (member) through combination. The authentication information includes, for example, a mobile phone number, an identity authentication number, a name, a user name (a string that can identify a freely registrable user), a password (e.g., a 4 - digit arbitrary number), a string representing favorite foods, a facial image, etc. The cases where a mobile phone number, an identity authentication number, a name, a facial image, etc. that can uniquely specify a member are examples of the first information. In addition, information such as a password and a string representing favorite foods that cannot uniquely specify a member alone is an example of the second information.

[0077] In addition, the authentication information is not limited to the above - mentioned information, as long as it is multiple information that can uniquely specify a customer through combination. Furthermore, the functional structure of the customer server 5 can be introduced into the store server 3, and the customer server 5 and the store server 3 can be integrated.

[0078] The membership registration terminal 4 is a device used by a customer when registering as a member. The customer registers authentication information when registering as a member. When the customer registers as a member, the membership registration procedures are carried out at the membership registration terminal 4 set at, for example, the service desk, or at the membership registration terminal 4 configured as a mobile terminal such as a smart mobile phone or a tablet terminal.

[0079] The customer registers authentication information when registering as a member. When registering, for example, a mobile phone number, an identity authentication number, a name, a user name, a password, or a string representing favorite foods, the customer inputs the corresponding information through the authentication information input screen displayed on the membership registration terminal 4 for inputting this information, thereby registering the authentication information in the membership registration terminal 4.

[0080] In addition, for example, when registering a facial image as authentication information, the customer takes a facial image with the membership registration terminal 4, thereby registering the facial image as authentication information in the membership registration terminal 4. In this way, when the customer registers as a member, the customer registers multiple authentication information in the membership registration terminal 4 using a method corresponding to the authentication information adopted by the store T.

[0081] In this embodiment, it is assumed that a mobile phone number, an identity authentication number, a name, a user name, a password, a string representing a favorite food, and a facial image are all registered as authentication information. In addition, a customer can register more information than a predetermined number specified by the store among the above as authentication information. The member registration terminal 4 issues a member number specifying the customer when performing member registration, and stores the obtained multiple pieces of authentication information in association with the member number.

[0082] In addition, when a customer performs member registration, the customer registers quantity information (an example of first quantity information) indicating the quantity of authentication information used for member specification from the member registration terminal 4. For example, the customer registers the corresponding information (a numerical value) by inputting the quantity information through a quantity information input form included in an authentication information input screen displayed via the member registration terminal 4, thereby registering the quantity information in the member registration terminal 4.

[0083] The quantity information is used to improve the security of the settlement process. For example, after a member number is specified by a combination of multiple pieces of authentication information, the quantity information associated with the member number is compared with the number input by the customer through the cash register 9 at the start of the settlement process as quantity information (an example of second quantity information) indicating the quantity of authentication information used for the settlement process. At this time, if the two do not match, the cash register 9 aborts the settlement process.

[0084] Accordingly, unless a value matching the quantity information registered for member specification during member registration is input, the settlement process is not executed, so that the security of the settlement process can be improved.

[0085] In addition, when a customer performs member registration, the customer registers payment medium information specifying one or more payment media that the member can use for payment from the member registration terminal 4.

[0086] As an example, which will be described in detail later in Figure 9 it is assumed that when member A performs member registration, the member A inputs and registers two payment media, credit card A and electronic money A, from the member registration terminal 4. In addition, it is assumed that when member B performs member registration, the member B inputs and registers two types of payment media, credit card B and code settlement B, from the member registration terminal 4. In addition, it is assumed that when member C performs member registration, the member C inputs and registers one type of payment medium, credit card A, from the member registration terminal 4.

[0087] The member registration terminal 4 stores the payment medium information indicating the payment media registered by the customer as described above in association with the issued member number.

[0088] The membership registration terminal 4 associates the issued membership number with multiple authentication information, quantity information for member designation, and payment medium information, and sends them to the customer server 5. The customer server 5 associates and stores (i.e., performs membership registration) the authentication information, quantity information, and payment medium information indicating the payment medium received from the membership registration terminal 4 with the simultaneously received membership number.

[0089] In addition, the membership registration terminal 4 may not send to the customer server 5 the information in which multiple authentication information, quantity information for member designation, and payment medium information are associated with the issued membership number. In this case, the membership registration terminal 4 can manage this information.

[0090] The checkout machine 9 obtains multiple authentication information from the member and sends it to the store server 3. The checkout machine 9 receives product registration information from the store server 3 and performs settlement processing for the product. The product registration information is the product registration information of the product purchased by the member specified by the combination of multiple sent authentication information for which product registration processing has been performed by the registration machine 7.

[0091] The so-called settlement processing refers to the display of the total amount and tax amount of the products related to a transaction for which product registration processing has been performed, the processing of calculating and displaying the change based on the prepaid amount paid by the customer in the case of cash payment, the processing with the enterprise that issued the payment medium in the case of using a payment medium other than cash, the processing of issuing a receipt printed with product information and settlement information (total amount, prepaid amount, change amount, etc.), and so on.

[0092] In addition, the checkout machine 9 receives payment medium information from the store server 3. When there are multiple available payment media based on the received payment medium information, the checkout machine 9 displays a medium selection screen for selecting one payment medium. When one payment medium has been selected, the checkout machine 9 uses this payment medium to perform settlement processing.

[0093] In addition, when there is only one available payment medium based on the received payment medium information, the checkout machine 9 can perform settlement processing using this payment medium without displaying the medium selection screen.

[0094] Next, the schematic structure of the registration machine 7 will be described. Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the registration machine 7. As Figure 3 shown, the registration machine 7 is vertically provided on the plane of the counter 85, and the counter 85 has a substantially rectangular plane. The registration machine 7 has a scanner 82 with a reading window provided on a vertical surface 86 as a base. The scanner 82 photographs the products passing in front of the reading window. Then, the scanner 82 specifies the products based on the images of the photographed products.

[0095] In addition, on the upper part of the scanner 82, the registration machine 7 is provided with an operator display 78 and an operation unit 77. The operator display 78 displays a registration screen for registering the sold goods, a subtotal screen showing the subtotal amount, etc. to the operator (the store clerk operating the registration machine 7).

[0096] On the surface of the operator display 78, a touch panel 771 is provided as part of the operation unit 77. In addition, the operation unit 77 is also provided on both side parts of the operator display 78. The operation unit 77 including the touch panel 771 functions as a user interface for assisting in inputting merchandise registration information.

[0097] On the right side surface of the registration machine 7, a card reader 83 is provided. The card reader 83 magnetically reads or electrically reads information from a card (medium) inserted through the insertion slot 831. For example, the card reader 83 reads the membership number of a member (customer) who holds the membership card from the membership card inserted through the insertion port 831.

[0098] A member refers to a customer who has completed the prescribed membership registration procedures. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the insertion port 831 is set to face the store clerk side of the card reader 83, and the store clerk inserts the membership card handed over by the member. However, the insertion port 831 can be set on the customer side (the opposite side of the store clerk side), and the customer can insert the membership card by themselves.

[0099] In addition, on the customer side of the registration machine 7, the operator display 78 is set in a state where the display surface faces the opposite side of the display surface of the operator display 78. The customer display 79 displays information to the customer including members.

[0100] In addition, the registration machine 7 includes a camera 81 (refer to Figure 5 ). The camera 81 captures the facial image of a non - member customer. Then, the registration machine 7 associates the merchandise registration information of the goods purchased by the non - member with the information of the facial image captured by the camera 81 and sends it to the store server 3. When the registration machine 7 sends the merchandise registration information to the store server 3, it displays a message recommending membership to the non - member on the customer display 79.

[0101] Next, the schematic structure of the checkout machine 9 will be described. Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the checkout machine 9. As Figure 4 shown, the checkout machine 9 includes a first housing 110 and a second housing 130. The first housing 110 includes a change machine 102 and a control unit 900 (both refer to Figure 10 ). The second housing 130 is placed on the upper surface of the first housing 110 and includes a printing unit 98, etc.

[0102] In addition, a display 97 is installed above the second housing 130, and an operation unit 96 constituted by a touch panel is provided on the surface of the display 97. The display 97 is constituted by, for example, a liquid crystal panel, and displays information related to the operation state of the cash register 9. In addition, the display 97 displays a medium selection screen for a member to select a payment medium to be used, which will be described later.

[0103] In the case of using cash as a payment medium, the change dispenser 102 receives the coins or banknotes inserted for payment, and pays out the change when there is change.

[0104] The change dispenser 102 includes a coin insertion slot 121, a banknote insertion slot 123, a banknote payout slot 124, and a coin payout unit 122. The change dispenser 102 stores the banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion slot 123 and the coins inserted into the coin insertion slot 121 inside.

[0105] In addition, the change dispenser 102 responds to a change payout request from the control unit 900 (refer to Figure 10 ) and pays out the change of the banknotes to the banknote payout slot 124. In addition, the change dispenser 102 responds to a change payout request from the control unit 900 and pays out the change of the coins to the coin payout unit 122.

[0106] The printing unit 98 is built in the second housing 130 and issues a receipt according to the control of the control unit 900. The receipt is printed with the product registration information and the settlement information of the products that have undergone the settlement process.

[0107] In addition, the cash register 9 further has a cylindrical support column 150 extending upward from the rear upper surface of the first housing 110. The support column 150 has a light emitting unit 151 at its upper end that emits blue light or red light. The light emitting unit 151 changes color and emits light according to the processing status of the cash register 9 to attract the attention of the store clerk. In addition, the processing status for making it emit light, the light emitting color, and the light emitting mode can all be set appropriately.

[0108] Customers, members, etc. operate the cash register 9 to perform a settlement process, that is, a process of paying the purchase price of goods using a payment medium such as cash, a credit card other than cash, or electronic money.

[0109] Next, the hardware structure of the registration machine 7 will be described. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the registration machine 7. As Figure 5 shown, the registration machine 7 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 71, which is an example of a processor, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 72, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 73, a memory unit 74, etc.

[0110] The CPU 71 is the control main body of the registration machine 7. The ROM 72 stores various programs. The RAM 73 loads programs, various data, etc. The memory unit 74 stores various programs. The CPU 71, ROM 72, RAM 73, and memory unit 74 are interconnected via the bus 75.

[0111] The CPU 71, ROM 72, and RAM 73 constitute the control unit 700. That is, the control unit 700 operates through the CPU 71 according to the control program stored in the ROM 72 or the memory unit 74 and loaded in the RAM 73, thereby performing the control process of the registration machine 7 described later.

[0112] The RAM 73 has a product information section 731 and a membership number section 732. The product information section 731 stores the product registration information of the products for which product registration processing has been performed. The membership number section 732 stores the membership numbers of the members read by the card reader 83 described later.

[0113] The memory unit 74 is composed of non-volatile memories such as an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) and a flash memory that retain the stored information even when the power is turned off, and has a control program section 741 that stores the control program for operating the registration machine 7 and a product master file 742. The product master file 742 stores the product information of each product in correspondence with the product designation information (for example, product code) that designates the product.

[0114] In addition, the control unit 700 is connected to the operation unit 77, the operator display 78, the customer display 79, the camera 81, the scanner 82, and the card reader 83 via the bus 75 and the controller 76.

[0115] The operation unit 77 has a send key 772. The send key 772 is operated when sending the product registration information that has been subjected to product registration processing by the registration machine 7 to the store server 3 in association with the membership number stored in the membership number section 732. In addition, in the case of a non-member customer, when the send key 772 is operated, the product registration information that has been subjected to product registration processing by the registration machine 7 is sent to the store server 3 in association with the facial image of the customer captured by the camera 81.

[0116] The operator display 78 displays the product registration information of the products for which product registration processing has been performed to the store clerk. Specifically, the operator display 78 reads the product information stored in the product master file 742 along with the product registration processing and displays it as the product registration information. The customer display 79 displays the above product registration information to the customer (member).

[0117] The camera 81 is provided near, for example, the customer display 79, and captures the facial image of a non-member during a transaction. The scanner 82 captures an image of the merchandise. Alternatively, the scanner 82 captures a code symbol attached to the merchandise. The card reader unit 83 magnetically or electrically reads card information including the member number from the inserted membership card.

[0118] In addition, the control unit 700 is connected to the communication unit 84 via the bus 75. The communication unit 84 is communicably connected to the store server 3, the member registration terminal 4, the customer server 5, and the cash register 9 via the communication line L.

[0119] Next, the hardware configuration of the store server 3 will be described. Figure 6 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the store server 3. As Figure 6 shown, the store server 3 includes a CPU 31 as an example of a processor, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a storage unit 34, and the like.

[0120] The CPU 31 is the control main body of the store server 3. The ROM 32 stores various programs. The RAM 33 stores programs, various data, and the like. The storage unit 34 stores various programs. The CPU 31, the ROM 32, the RAM 33, and the storage unit 34 are connected to each other via the bus 35.

[0121] The CPU 31, the ROM 32, and the RAM 33 constitute the control unit 300. That is, the control unit 300 operates according to the control program stored in the ROM 32 or the storage unit 34 and loaded in the RAM 33 by the CPU 31, thereby executing the control process of the store server 3 described later.

[0122] The RAM 33 has a sales information unit 331 and a member information unit 332. The sales information unit 331 accumulatively stores the sales data received from the cash register 9 (the merchandise registration information and the settlement information of the merchandise for which the settlement process has been performed), and manages the sales of the store T. The member information unit 332 stores the information received from the registration machine 7 and the information received from the customer server 5 corresponding to the member number. The member information unit 332 will be described later using an attachment Figure 7 to illustrate.

[0123] The storage unit 34 is composed of non-volatile memories such as an HDD and a flash memory that retain the stored information even when the power is turned off, and has a control program unit 341. The control program unit 341 stores the control program for driving the store server 3.

[0124] In addition, the control unit 300 is connected to the display unit 37 and the operation unit 38 via the bus 35 and the controller 36. The display unit 37 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays information to the operator who operates the store server 3. The operation unit 38 is, for example, a keyboard, and is operated by the operator of the store server 3.

[0125] In addition, the control unit 300 is connected to the communication unit 39 via the bus 35. The communication unit 39 is communicably connected to the registration machine 7, the member registration terminal 4, the customer server 5, and the cash register 9 via the communication line L.

[0126] Next, the member information unit 332 will be described. Figure 7 It is a memory map showing the memory structure of the member information unit 332. As Figure 7 shown, the member information unit 332 includes a member number unit 3321, a merchandise registration information unit 3322, and a payment medium unit 3323.

[0127] The member number unit 3321 stores the member number among the member number and the merchandise registration information received from the registration machine 7 in an associated manner.

[0128] The merchandise registration information unit 3322 stores the merchandise registration information among the member number and the merchandise registration information received from the registration machine 7 in an associated manner with the member number stored in the member number unit 3321.

[0129] The payment medium unit 3323 stores the payment medium information among the member number, the merchandise registration information, and the payment medium information received from the customer server 5 described later in an associated manner with the member number stored in the same member number unit 3321 as the received member number.

[0130] That is, the member information unit 332 stores, corresponding to the member number stored in the member number unit 3321, the merchandise registration information of the merchandise to be purchased by the customer specified by the member number, and the payment medium information specifying the payment medium that can be used in settlement and pre-registered by the customer.

[0131] Next, the hardware structure of the customer server 5 will be described. Figure 8 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the customer server 5. As Figure 8 shown, the customer server 5 includes a CPU 51 as an example of a processor, a ROM 52, a RAM 53, a memory unit 54, etc.

[0132] The CPU 51 is the control main body of the customer server 5. The ROM 52 stores various programs. The RAM 53 stores programs, various data, etc. The memory unit 54 stores various programs. The CPU 51, the ROM 52, the RAM 53, and the memory unit 54 are connected to each other via the bus 55.

[0133] The CPU 51, ROM 52, and RAM 53 constitute the control unit 500. That is, the control unit 500 operates according to the control program stored in the ROM 52 and the memory unit 54 and loaded in the RAM 53 by the CPU 51, thereby executing the control process of the customer server 5 described later.

[0134] The RAM 53 has a member management unit 531 that stores various information of members who have registered as members. This will be used later Figure 9 to explain the member management unit 531.

[0135] The memory unit 54 is composed of non-volatile memories such as HDDs and flash memories that retain the stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 541. The control program unit 541 stores the control program for driving the customer server 5.

[0136] In addition, the control unit 500 is connected to the display unit 57 and the operation unit 58 via the bus 55 and the controller 56. The display unit 57 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays information to the operator who operates the customer server 5. The operation unit 58 is, for example, a keyboard, and is operated by the operator of the customer server 5.

[0137] In addition, the control unit 500 is connected to the communication unit 59 via the bus 55. The communication unit 59 is communicably connected to the registration machine 7, the store server 3, the checkout machine 9, and the member registration terminal 4 via the communication line L.

[0138] Next, the member management unit 531 will be described. The member management unit 531 is an example of a storage unit. Figure 9 is a memory map showing the memory structure of the member management unit 531. As Figure 9 shown, the member management unit 531 includes a member number unit 5311, an authentication information unit 5312, a quantity information unit 5313, and a payment medium unit 5314.

[0139] The member number unit 5311 stores the member number among the member number, multiple authentication information, quantity information for member designation, and payment medium information received in association with the member registration terminal 4.

[0140] The authentication information unit 5312 stores, in association with the member number stored in the member number unit 5311, the multiple authentication information or the authentication identification code specifying each of the multiple authentication information among the member number, multiple authentication information, and payment medium information received in association with the member registration terminal 4.

[0141] The quantity information unit 5313 stores the quantity information for member designation among the member number, multiple authentication information, quantity information for member designation, and payment medium information received in association with the member registration terminal 4.

[0142] The payment medium unit 5314 stores the payment medium information received in association with the membership registration terminal 4 in association with the membership number stored in the membership number unit 5311, among the membership number, multiple authentication information, quantity information for member designation, and payment medium information.

[0143] In Figure 9 As an example, for member A with membership number 0001, member B with membership number 0002, and member C with membership number 0003, multiple authentication information stored in the authentication information unit 5312, quantity information for member designation stored in the quantity information unit 5313, and payment medium information stored in the payment medium unit 5314 are shown.

[0144] Member A pre-registers 3 as the quantity information for member designation, and credit card A and electronic money A are payment media that can be used to pay for purchased goods. That is, when member A starts the settlement process, the settlement process can only be executed if 3 has been entered as the quantity of authentication information to be used. In addition, member A can use credit card A or electronic money A for paying the purchase price (settlement process).

[0145] Member B pre-registers 3 as the quantity information for member designation, and the payment media that can be used to pay for purchased goods are credit card B and code settlement B. That is, when member B starts the settlement process, the settlement process can only be executed if 3 has been entered as the quantity of authentication information to be used. In addition, member B can use credit card B or code settlement B for paying the purchase price (settlement process).

[0146] Member C pre-registers 4 as the quantity information for member designation, and the payment medium that can be used to pay for purchased goods is credit card A. That is, when member C starts the settlement process, the settlement process can only be executed if 4 has been entered as the quantity of authentication information to be used. In addition, member C can only use credit card A for paying the purchase price (settlement process).

[0147] Next, the hardware structure of the checkout machine 9 will be described. Figure 10 It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the checkout machine 9. As Figure 10 shown, the checkout machine 9 includes a CPU 91 as an example of a processor, a ROM 92, a RAM 93, a memory unit 94, etc.

[0148] The CPU 91 is the control main body of the checkout machine 9. The ROM 92 stores various programs. The RAM 93 loads programs, various data, etc. The memory unit 94 stores various programs. The CPU 91, ROM 92, RAM 93, and memory unit 94 are interconnected via a bus 95.

[0149] The CPU 91, ROM 92, and RAM 93 constitute the control unit 900. That is, the control unit 900 operates through the CPU 91 according to the control program stored in the ROM 92 and the storage unit 94 and loaded in the RAM 93, thereby executing the control process of the checkout machine 9 described later.

[0150] The RAM 93 includes an authentication information section 931, a quantity information section 932, a product registration information section 933, and a medium storage section 934.

[0151] The authentication information section 931 stores multiple authentication information of members obtained by the authentication acquisition section 904 described later. The quantity information section 932 stores the quantity information for settlement processing obtained by the quantity acquisition section 901 described later. The product registration information section 933 stores the product registration information received from the store server 3 and stored in the product registration information section 3322. The medium storage section 934 stores the payment medium information received from the store server 3 and stored in the payment medium section 3323.

[0152] The memory unit 94 is composed of a non-volatile memory such as an HDD or a flash memory that retains the stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program section 941. The control program section 941 stores the control program for driving the checkout machine 9.

[0153] In addition, the control unit 900 is connected to the operation unit 96, the display 97, the printing unit 98, the card reader 99, the camera 101, and the change dispenser 102 via the bus 95 and the controller 105. The display 97 displays information to the customer (member) operating the checkout machine 9. The operation unit 96 is a keyboard composed of a touch panel provided on the surface of the display 9. The printing unit 98 prints the product registration information and the settlement information of the products for which the settlement process has been performed, and issues a receipt.

[0154] When a non-member uses the checkout machine 9, a payment medium for settlement is inserted and the card reader 99 reads the information on the payment medium (such as credit card information). The checkout machine 9 performs a settlement process on the products to be purchased by the non-member according to the information read by the card reader 99. When performing the settlement process for a non-member customer, the checkout machine 9 displays a message recommending becoming a member on the display 97.

[0155] The camera 101 captures the facial image of the non-member customer. The change dispenser 102 is used for the case of settlement by cash.

[0156] In addition, the control unit 900 is connected to the communication unit 103 via the bus 95. The communication unit 103 is communicably connected to the registration machine 7, the store server 3, the customer server 5, and the member registration terminal 4 via the communication line L.

[0157] Next, the hardware structure of the member login terminal 4 will be described.Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the member registration terminal 4. As Figure 11 shown, the member registration terminal 4 includes a CPU 41 as an example of a processor, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, a memory unit 44, etc.

[0158] The CPU 41 is the control main body of the member registration terminal 4. The ROM 42 stores various programs. The RAM 43 stores programs, various data, etc. The memory unit 44 stores various programs. The CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, and memory unit 44 are interconnected via a bus 45.

[0159] The CPU 41, ROM 42, and RAM 43 constitute a control unit 400. That is, the control unit 400 operates through the CPU 41 according to the control programs stored in the ROM 42 and memory unit 44 and loaded in the RAM 43, thereby executing the control process of the member registration terminal 4 described later.

[0160] The RAM 43 includes a member registration unit 431. The member registration unit 431 stores the obtained multiple authentication information and the payment medium information that can be used for payment read by the card reading unit 106 from the inserted payment medium in association with the member number newly generated for the member being registered.

[0161] The memory unit 44 is composed of non-volatile memories such as an HDD and a flash memory that retain the stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 441. The control program unit 441 stores the control program for driving the member login terminal 4.

[0162] In addition, the control unit 400 is connected to a display 47, an operation unit 48, a camera 49, and a card reading unit 106 via the bus 45 and a controller 46.

[0163] The display 47 displays information to the customer (member) or the store clerk operating the member registration terminal 4. The operation unit 48 is a keyboard having a send key 481 and including a touch panel provided on the surface of the display 47. The customer inputs authentication information via the authentication information input screen displayed on the display 47 and the operation unit 48. In this case, the control unit 400 obtains the input information as one of the multiple authentication information and stores the multiple authentication information in the member registration unit 431.

[0164] As an example, the authentication information input screen is composed of a selection box for selecting the type of authentication information to be registered and an input box for inputting a string corresponding to the selected type of authentication information.

[0165] In addition, the authentication information input screen further includes an operation control, which is used to transition the authentication information input screen to a face image capture screen displayed when registering a face image as authentication information. Additionally, when the customer selects a face image as the type of authentication information to be registered, the control unit 400 can automatically transition to the face image capture screen.

[0166] In addition, the member registration terminal 4 can also be configured to be able to obtain biometric authentication information other than face images, such as vein and fingerprint information. In this case, the control unit 400 can obtain the biometric authentication information read by the device for reading biometric authentication information as one of the multiple authentication information.

[0167] When the customer operates the send key 481, the control unit 400 controls the generation of a member number, and associates the multiple authentication information stored in the member registration unit 431, the quantity information for member designation, and the payment medium information with the generated member number and sends them to the customer server 5.

[0168] The camera 49 captures the customer's face image. For example, when the face capture screen is displayed through the customer's operation and an instruction to capture the face image is issued via this screen, the camera 49 captures the customer's face image. In this case, the control unit 400 obtains the captured face image as one of the authentication information and stores this authentication information in the member registration unit 431. Additionally, the control unit 400 can store the identification code for identifying the captured face image as authentication information in the member registration unit 431.

[0169] The card reader unit 106 reads the information of the inserted payment medium (such as credit card information). When the customer conducts member registration, the customer makes the card reader 106 read one or more payment media that can be used for settling the goods purchased in store T hereafter. The control unit 400 stores the payment medium information read by the card reader unit 106 from the inserted payment medium in the member registration unit 431.

[0170] In addition, the control unit 400 is connected to the communication unit 107 via the bus 45. The communication unit 107 is communicably connected to the registration machine 7, the store server 3, the customer server 5, and the checkout machine 9 via the communication line L.

[0171] Next, the process of all the processing including the sending and receiving of information from product registration to settlement in the registration machine 7, the store server 3, the customer server 5, and the checkout machine 9 will be described. Figure 12 It is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow among the registration machine 7, the store server 3, the customer server 5, and the checkout machine 9.

[0172] First, the customer server 5 performs member registration (T1) for the member by receiving member information (associated member number, multiple authentication information, quantity information for member specification, and payment medium information) from the member registration terminal 4 and storing it in the member management unit 531. In this case, the control unit 500 of the customer server 5 is an example of a registration unit. Additionally, the control unit 400 of the member registration terminal 4 can also execute the processing related to the above-mentioned member registration.

[0173] A store clerk or customer of store T uses the registration machine 7 to perform a product registration operation for the product to be purchased by the customer. The registration machine 7 performs product registration processing on the product (T2). In addition, the registration machine 7 reads the member number from the membership card read by the member when registering the product (T2). Then, the registration machine 7 associates the product registration information of the product on which the product registration processing has been performed with the read member number and sends it to the store server 3 (T3).

[0174] The store server 3 associates the member number received from the registration machine 7 with the product registration information and stores it in the member information unit 332 (T4).

[0175] When the member finishes the product registration processing through the registration machine 7, the member moves to any idle checkout machine 9 and starts the input for the checkout processing on the checkout machine 9. At this time, the checkout machine 9 displays a quantity input screen on the display 47. The customer inputs a value representing the quantity of the authentication information for specifying the member through this quantity input screen.

[0176] As an example, a message such as "Please input the quantity of the authentication information for specifying the member set by yourself during member registration" (a message prompting the input of the registered quantity) and a form for inputting a value are displayed on the quantity input screen.

[0177] The checkout machine 9 obtains the quantity information for settlement processing (second quantity information (for example, 3)) based on the input value (T5). Then, the checkout machine 9 sends the obtained quantity information for settlement processing to the store server 3 (T6). The store server 3 sends the quantity information for settlement processing received from the checkout machine 9 to the customer server 5 (T7).

[0178] The customer server 5 determines a combination (T8) of types of authentication information for member designation based on the quantity information for settlement processing received from the store server 3. That is, according to the second quantity information (for example, 3), the quantity of types of designation information for the designation of the user is determined. Then, the authentication information (3 types) corresponding to the quantity of the second quantity information (for example, 3) is determined from among multiple types of authentication information. For example, the customer server 5 randomly selects, from among the multiple types of authentication information adopted in store T, the types of authentication information corresponding to the quantity of the quantity information for settlement processing received from the store server 3 (for example, 3 types), and determines the combination of types of authentication information for member designation.

[0179] The customer server 5 sends the determined combination of types of authentication information to the store server 3 (T9). The store server 3 sends the combination of types of authentication information received from the customer server 5 to the checkout machine 9 (T10). The checkout machine 9 displays, on the display 47, an authentication information input screen for inputting authentication information corresponding to the combination of types of authentication information received from the store server 3. The customer inputs a string corresponding to the multiple authentication information via this authentication information input screen.

[0180] In addition, when the combination of types of authentication information includes a facial image, the checkout machine 9 captures the customer's facial image using the camera 101 according to the customer's instruction.

[0181] Incidentally, it is also considered that there are types of authentication information that do not require registration among the multiple types of authentication information adopted in store T. Therefore, in this situation, the case where the combination of types of authentication information determined by the customer server 5 includes a type of authentication information that the customer has not registered will be described.

[0182] In this case, the checkout machine 9 sends, via the store server 3, information indicating that the combination of types of authentication information determined by the customer server 5 includes a type of authentication information that has not been registered to the customer server 5. In addition, the customer server 5 that has received this information may also re-determine the combination of types of authentication information.

[0183] The checkout machine 9 obtains multiple authentication information corresponding to the combination of types of authentication information received from the store server 3 based on the input string or the captured facial image (T11). Then, the checkout machine 9 sends the obtained multiple authentication information to the store server 3 (T12). That is, the checkout machine 9 inquires about the merchandise registration information related to the customer based on the multiple authentication information. The store server 3 sends the multiple authentication information received from the checkout machine 9 to the customer server 5 (T13).

[0184] The customer server 5 retrieves the membership management department 53 based on multiple authentication information received from the store server 3, and designates the membership number, quantity information for membership designation, and payment medium information (member information) associated with multiple authentication information that matches the received multiple authentication information (T14). That is, for the authentication information of each member registered for multiple members, the received multiple authentication information is used as a keyword for retrieval, and the membership number associated with the exactly matching authentication information is designated. Accordingly, it is possible to designate the membership numbers that match the multiple authentication information from among multiple membership numbers. Also, it is possible to designate the quantity information and the payment medium information.

[0185] Incidentally, also consider the case where even if there are multiple authentication information that match the multiple authentication information received from the store server 3 in the membership management department 531, the membership number cannot be uniquely designated.

[0186] In this case, the customer server 5 can send a request via the store server 3 to the checkout machine 9 to send information (such as a mobile phone number, an authentication number, a facial image, etc.) that can uniquely designate the membership number. In this case, it is preferable that the store T presets at least one of the information that can uniquely designate the membership number as the authentication information that needs to be registered.

[0187] In addition, although not shown in the figure Figure 12 if the quantity information for settlement processing sent from the store server 3 in T7 does not match the quantity information for membership designation designated in T14, the customer server 5 sends a control command to abort the settlement processing to the checkout machine 9 via the store server 3. In addition, the customer server 5 also sends a control command to abort the settlement processing to the checkout machine 9 in the same case as when there is no member information in the membership management department 531 that is associated with multiple authentication information that matches the received multiple authentication information.

[0188] After designating the member information, the customer server 5 associates the designated membership number with the payment medium information and sends it to the store server 3 (T15). The store server 3 that has received the membership number and the payment medium information from the customer server 5 stores the payment medium information in association with the received membership number in the member information department 332. Then, the store server 3 reads out the product registration information and the payment medium information stored in association with the membership number and sends them to the checkout machine 9 that has made an inquiry (T16).

[0189] The checkout machine 9 performs settlement processing (T17) on the member based on the received merchandise registration information and payment medium information. Additionally, the checkout machine 9 aborts the settlement processing when it receives a control command to abort the settlement processing from the store server 3. In this case, the checkout machine 9 can display, on the display 47, information indicating that there is an error in the input information (authentication information, quantity information for settlement processing).

[0190] Next, the functional structures of the registration machine 7, the store server 3, the customer server 5, and the checkout machine 9 from merchandise registration to checkout will be described. Figure 13 It is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional structures of the registration machine 7, the store server 3, the customer server 5, and the checkout machine 9.

[0191] The control unit 700 of the registration machine 7 functions as a member input unit 701, a merchandise registration unit 702, and a registration transmission unit 703 by controlling in accordance with the control program stored in the control program unit 741 of the ROM 72 and the memory unit 74.

[0192] The member input unit 701 inputs the member number specifying the member. Specifically, the member input unit 701 reads the member number of the member from the membership card of the card insertion reading unit 83.

[0193] The merchandise registration unit 702 performs merchandise registration processing on the merchandise. Specifically, the merchandise registration unit 702 performs merchandise registration processing on the merchandise specified by the merchandise image captured by the scanner 82.

[0194] The registration transmission unit 703 associates the member number input by the member input unit 701 with the merchandise registration information of the merchandise on which the merchandise registration processing has been performed by the merchandise registration unit 702, and transmits it to the store server 3.

[0195] In addition, the control unit 300 of the store server 3 functions as a storage control unit 301, a quantity receiving unit 302, a quantity transmitting unit 303, a combination receiving unit 304, a combination transmitting unit 305, an authentication receiving unit 306, an inquiry unit 307, a member receiving unit 308, a registration specifying unit 309, and a settlement transmitting unit 310 by controlling in accordance with the control program stored in the control program unit 341 of the ROM 32 and the memory unit 34.

[0196] The storage control unit 301 further associates the member number and the merchandise registration information received from the registration machine 7 with the payment medium information received from the customer server 5, and stores them in the member information unit 332.

[0197] The quantity receiving unit 302 determines whether quantity information for member specification has been received from the checkout machine 9.

[0198] The quantity sending unit 303 sends the quantity information for member designation, which it has determined that the quantity receiving unit 302 has received for member designation, to the customer server 5.

[0199] The combination receiving unit 304 determines whether it has received from the customer server 5 a combination of types of authentication information for member designation.

[0200] The combination sending unit 305 sends the combination of types of authentication information, which it has determined that the combination receiving unit 304 has received, to the cash register 9.

[0201] The authentication receiving unit 306 determines whether it has received from the cash register 9 multiple pieces of authentication information for designating a member.

[0202] The inquiry unit 307 sends the multiple pieces of authentication information, which it has determined that the authentication receiving unit 306 has received, to the customer server 5. In other words, based on the multiple pieces of authentication information that it has determined the authentication receiving unit 306 has received, the inquiry unit 307 inquires of the customer server 5 about the quantity information for member designation and payment medium information related to the member.

[0203] In response to the multiple pieces of authentication information sent by the inquiry unit 307, the member receiving unit 308 determines whether it has received from the customer server 5 a member number and payment medium information associated with the multiple pieces of authentication information. In addition, the member receiving unit 308 determines whether it has received from the customer server 5 a control command to abort the settlement process.

[0204] The registration designation unit 309 designates the member number stored by the storage control unit 301 in the member information unit 332, and the merchandise registration information and payment medium information associated with the member number that it has determined the member receiving unit 308 has received.

[0205] The settlement sending unit 310 sends the merchandise registration information and payment medium information designated by the registration designation unit 309 to the cash register 9 to which the authentication information has been sent. In addition, the settlement sending unit 310 sends to the cash register 9 the control command to abort the settlement process that it has determined the member receiving unit 308 has received.

[0206] In addition, the control unit 500 of the customer server 5 is controlled in accordance with the control program of the control program unit 541 stored in the ROM 52 and the memory unit 54, so as to function as a quantity receiving unit 501, a combination determination unit 502, a combination sending unit 503, an inquiry receiving unit 504, a member designation unit 505, and a member sending unit 506.

[0207] The quantity receiving unit 501 determines whether it has received the quantity information for settlement processing sent by the quantity sending unit 303.

[0208] The combination determination unit 502 (an example of a determination unit) determines a combination of types of authentication information for member designation based on the quantity information for settlement processing that is judged to have been received by the quantity reception unit 501.

[0209] For example, the combination determination unit 502 randomly selects, from among multiple types of authentication information adopted by store T, the types of authentication information corresponding to the quantity of the quantity information for settlement processing that has been received. The combination determination unit 502 determines the combination of the randomly selected types of authentication information as the combination of types of authentication information for member designation.

[0210] In addition, when there is registered one or more pieces of information that can uniquely specify a member number, the combination determination unit 502 determines a combination of types of authentication information for member designation in such a way as to include at least one piece of information among the pieces of information that can uniquely specify the member number. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a situation where the member number cannot be uniquely specified based on the determined combination of types of authentication information for member designation.

[0211] The combination transmission unit 503 transmits the combination of types of authentication information for member designation determined by the combination determination unit 502 to the store server 3.

[0212] The inquiry reception unit 504 determines whether it has received multiple pieces of authentication information sent by the inquiry unit 307.

[0213] The member designation unit 505 (an example of a designation unit) designates a member. For example, the member designation unit 505 retrieves the member management unit 531 based on the multiple pieces of authentication information that are judged to have been received by the inquiry reception unit 504, and designates the member number, quantity information for member designation, and payment medium information stored in association with the multiple pieces of authentication information.

[0214] In addition, for example, the member designation unit 505 determines whether the quantity information for settlement processing that is judged to have been received by the quantity reception unit 501 matches the quantity information for member designation that has been designated.

[0215] When the member designation unit 505 determines that the quantity information for settlement processing received by the quantity reception unit 501 matches the quantity information for member designation that has been designated, the member transmission unit 506 transmits the member number and payment medium information designated by the member designation unit 505 to the store server 3. In other words, when the two pieces of quantity information match, the member designation unit 505 permits the execution of settlement processing. The member transmission unit 506 in this case is an example of a control unit.

[0216] In addition, when the member designation unit 505 determines that the quantity information for settlement processing received by the quantity reception unit 501 does not match the quantity information designated for member designation, it sends a control command to the store server 3 to abort the settlement processing in the cash register 9. In other words, when the two quantity information matches, the member designation unit 505 inhibits the execution of the settlement processing. The member designation unit 505 in this case is an example of a control unit.

[0217] In addition, the control unit 900 of the cash register 9 performs control in accordance with the control program stored in the control program unit 941 of the ROM 92 and the memory unit 94, and thus functions as a quantity acquisition unit 901, a quantity transmission unit 902, a combination reception unit 903, an authentication acquisition unit 904, an authentication transmission unit 905, a settlement reception unit 906, a selection unit 907, and a settlement processing unit 908.

[0218] The quantity acquisition unit 901 (an example of an acquisition unit) acquires quantity information for settlement processing. Specifically, when the quantity acquisition unit 901 receives an operation to start settlement processing from a customer, it acquires, as the quantity information for settlement processing, the numerical value of the quantity of the type of authentication information input via the quantity input screen displayed on the display 47 and designated for member designation. Specifically, a quantity input screen including a message prompting the input of a registered quantity and a form for inputting a numerical value is displayed, and the quantity information is acquired.

[0219] The quantity transmission unit 902 transmits the quantity information for settlement processing acquired by the quantity acquisition unit 901 to the store server 3.

[0220] The combination reception unit 903 determines whether a combination of types of authentication information sent by the combination transmission unit 305 has been received.

[0221] The authentication acquisition unit 904 acquires a plurality of authentication information corresponding to the combination of types of authentication information determined to have been received by the combination reception unit 903. Specifically, when it is determined that the combination reception unit 903 has received a combination of types of authentication information, the authentication acquisition unit 904 acquires a plurality of authentication information of the member based on the information (an example of input information) input by the customer via the authentication information input screen displayed on the display 47.

[0222] In addition, when the combination of types of authentication information determined to have been received by the combination reception unit 903 includes a facial image, the authentication acquisition unit 904 acquires the facial image of the customer as one of the authentication information, and the facial image of the customer is a facial image captured by the customer via a facial image capture screen that can be transitioned from the authentication information input screen by the customer's operation.

[0223] The authentication sending unit 905 sends the multiple pieces of authentication information obtained by the authentication acquisition unit 904 to the store server 3.

[0224] The settlement receiving unit 906 receives from the store server 3 the product registration information of the products purchased by the member corresponding to the authentication information sent by the authentication sending unit 905 and the payment medium information specifying the payment medium used by the member in the payment.

[0225] Specifically, the settlement receiving unit 906 receives from the store server 3 and stores the product registration information of the products purchased by the member corresponding to the multiple pieces of authentication information obtained by the authentication acquisition unit 904 and sent by the authentication sending unit 905, and the payment medium information specifying the payment medium used by the member in the payment. The settlement receiving unit 906 stores the received product registration information in the product registration information unit 933. In addition, the settlement receiving unit 906 stores the received payment medium information in the medium storage unit 934.

[0226] In addition, the settlement receiving unit 906 receives from the store server 3 a control command to abort the settlement process. Specifically, when it is determined that there are defects in the quantity information or authentication information used by the customer to input for the settlement process using the customer server 5, the settlement receiving unit 906 issues a control command to the store server 3 to abort the settlement process.

[0227] When there are multiple types of payment media available for payment related to the received payment medium information, the selection unit 907 displays a medium selection screen where any one of the payment media can be selected.

[0228] Specifically, when there are multiple types of payment media available for payment related to the received payment medium information, a medium selection screen that visualizes the multiple payment media included in the received payment medium information is displayed, and when any one of the payment media is touched, the corresponding payment medium is selected.

[0229] The settlement processing unit 908 uses the payment medium specified by the received payment medium information and performs settlement processing based on the received product registration information.

[0230] Specifically, when the received payment medium information includes multiple payment media, the settlement processing unit 908 uses the payment medium selected from the displayed available payment media by the selection unit 907 to perform settlement processing. In addition, when the received payment medium information includes one payment medium, the settlement processing unit 908 uses this payment medium to perform settlement processing without displaying the medium selection screen based on the selection unit 907.

[0231] In addition, when the settlement receiving unit 906 receives a control command to abort the settlement process from the store server 3, the settlement processing unit 908 aborts the settlement process. In this case, the settlement processing unit 908 may display, on the display 47, a message indicating that there is a defect in the input of quantity information or authentication information for the settlement process.

[0232] Next, the control of the member login terminal 4 will be described. Figure 14 FIG. is a flowchart showing an example of the control process of the member registration terminal 4.

[0233] As Figure 14 shown, the control unit 400 of the member registration terminal 4 determines whether an operation to start the member registration process has been received from the customer (S101). For example, the control unit 400 determines whether an input of pressing an operation control for starting the member registration process has been received from the customer via a menu screen for performing various processes displayed on the display 47 of the member registration terminal 4. If it is determined that the operation to start the member registration process has not been received (No in S101), the process in S101 is repeated.

[0234] If it is determined that the operation to start the member registration process has been received (Yes in S101), the control unit 400 determines whether an input of quantity information for member designation has been received from the customer (S111). For example, when the control unit 400 determines that the operation to start the member registration process has been received, an authentication information input screen is displayed on the display 47. The control unit 400 determines whether an operation of inputting and determining quantity information has been received from the customer via a quantity information input form included in the authentication information input screen.

[0235] If it is determined that the input of quantity information has been received (Yes in S111), the control unit 400 obtains the input content (numerical value) as the quantity information for member designation (S112). Then, the control unit 400 stores the obtained quantity information for member designation in the member registration unit 431 (S113). Then, the control unit 400 returns the process to S111.

[0236] In addition, if it is determined that the input of quantity information has not been received (No in S111), the control unit 400 determines whether an input of authentication information has been received from the customer (S121). For example, the control unit 400 determines whether a selection input for confirming the type of authentication information to be registered and an operation of input content corresponding to the selected type of authentication information have been received from the customer via the authentication information input screen.

[0237] In the case where it is determined that the input of the authentication information has been accepted (Yes in S121), the control unit 400 acquires the input content as the authentication information (S122). Then, the control unit 400 stores the acquired authentication information in the member registration unit 431 (S123). Then, the control unit 400 returns the process to S111.

[0238] In addition, in the case where it is determined that the input of the authentication information has not been accepted (No in S121), the control unit 400 determines whether a card for settlement has been inserted into the card reader 106 (S131).

[0239] In the case where it is determined that the card for settlement has been inserted into the card reader 106 (Yes in S131), the control unit 400 reads card information from the inserted card and generates payment medium information related to the card (S132). Then, the control unit 400 stores the generated payment medium information in the member registration unit 431 (S133). Then, the control unit 400 returns the process to S111.

[0240] In addition, in the case where it is determined that the card has not been inserted into the card reader 106 (No in S131), the control unit 400 determines whether the send key 481 has been operated (S141). In the case where it is determined that the send key 481 has not been operated (No in S141), the control unit 400 returns the process to S111.

[0241] In the case where it is determined that the send key 481 has been operated (Yes in S141), the control unit 400 determines whether the information required for member registration is complete (S142).

[0242] In the present embodiment, the control unit 400 determines whether the quantity information for member designation, a plurality of authentication information (all of the mobile phone number, identity authentication number, name, user name, password, a string indicating favorite food, and the facial image) and payment medium information are stored in the member registration unit 431. In addition, among the plurality of authentication information, it may include information other than the above, or may not include all or part of the above information.

[0243] In the case where it is determined that the required information is incomplete (No in S142), the control unit 400 returns the process to S111. In the case where it is determined that the required information is complete (No in S142), the control unit 400 issues a member number designating the member (S143).

[0244] Then, the control unit 400 associates the issued member number with the authentication information stored in the member registration unit 431, the quantity information for member designation, and the payment medium information, and stores them in the member registration unit 431 (S144). Then, the control unit 400 sends the associated member number, multiple authentication information, quantity information for member designation, and payment medium information to the customer server 5 (S145).

[0245] According to the member registration terminal 4 of this embodiment, when registering a customer as a member, it is possible to associate the member number designating the member with the payment medium information of the payment medium that can be used after designating the member. In addition, according to the member registration terminal 4 of the embodiment, it is possible to associate the member number designating the member issued by the store T (which may be an enterprise operating the store T) with multiple authentication information that can designate the member.

[0246] Next, the control of the registration machine 7 will be described. Figure 15 It is a flowchart showing an example of the control process of the registration machine 7. As Figure 15 shown, the control unit 700 of the registration machine 7 determines whether the card reading unit 83 has read the member number (S11). When it is determined that the member number has been read (Yes in S11), the member input unit 701 stores the read member number in the member number unit 732 (S12). Then, the control unit 700 returns the process to S11.

[0247] In addition, when it is determined that the member number has not been read (No in S11), the control unit 70 determines whether the product has been photographed by the scanner 82 (S13). When it is determined that the product has been photographed (Yes in S13), the product registration unit 702 designates the product based on the captured image of the product, and performs a product registration process on the product. Then, the product registration unit 702 stores the product registration information in the product information unit 731 (S14). After that, the control unit 700 returns the process to S11.

[0248] In addition, when it is determined that the product has not been photographed (No in S13), the control unit 700 determines whether the send key 772 has been operated (S15). When it is determined that the send key 772 has not been operated (No in S15), the control unit 700 returns the process to S11.

[0249] When the control unit 700 determines that the send key 772 has been operated (Yes in S15), it determines whether both the product registration information and the member number exist (S16). For example, the control unit 700 determines whether product registration information is stored in the product information unit 731 and determines whether the member number is stored in the member number unit 732. When it is determined that at least one of the product registration information and the member number does not exist (No in S16), the control unit 700 returns the process to S11.

[0250] When it is determined that both the product registration information and the member number exist (Yes in S16), the control unit 700 associates the product registration information stored in the product information unit 731 with the member number stored in the member number unit 732 (S17). Then, the registration sending unit 703 sends the associated product registration information and member number to the store server 3 (S18). Then, the control unit 700 ends the product registration process for one customer.

[0251] According to the registration machine 7 of this embodiment, by reading the member number, the member number is associated with the product registration information of the product for which the product registration process has been performed (i.e., the product that the member wants to purchase), and the associated member number and product registration information are sent to the store server 3.

[0252] Next, the control of the store server 3 will be described. Figure 16 A flowchart showing the process flow of the control process of the store server 3.

[0253] The control unit 300 of the store server 3 determines whether the associated member number and product registration information have been received from the registration machine 7 (S21). When it is determined that they have been received (Yes in S21), the control unit 300 advances the process to S31 described later. When it is determined that they have not been received (No in S21), the control unit 300 determines whether the associated member number and product registration information have been received from the registration machine 7 (S22).

[0254] When it is determined that they have been received (Yes in S22), the storage control unit 301 stores the received member number and product registration information in the member information unit 332 (S23). Specifically, the storage control unit 301 stores the received member number in the member number unit 3321 and stores the received product registration information in the product registration information unit 3322 corresponding to the stored member number. Then, the control unit 300 returns the process to S21.

[0255] In addition, in the case where it is determined that the member number and the product registration information have not been received (No in S22), the quantity receiving unit 302 determines whether the quantity information for settlement processing has been received from the cash register 9 (S31). In the case where it is determined that it has been received (Yes in S31), the control unit 300 advances the process to S41 described later. In the case where it is determined that it has not been received (No in S31), the quantity receiving unit 302 determines whether the quantity information for settlement processing has been received from the cash register 9 (S32).

[0256] In the case where it is determined that the quantity information for settlement processing has been received from the cash register 9 (Yes in S32), the quantity sending unit 303 sends the received quantity information for settlement processing to the customer server 5 (S33).

[0257] Next, the control unit 300 determines whether the combination of the types of authentication information has been received from the customer server 5 (S41). In the case where it is determined that it has been received (Yes in S41), the control unit 300 advances the process to S51 described later. In the case where it is determined that it has not been received (No in S41), the combination receiving unit 304 determines whether the combination of the types of authentication information has been received from the customer server 5 (S42). In the case where it is determined that the combination of the types of authentication information has not been received from the customer server 5 (No in S42), the control unit 300 advances the process to S51.

[0258] On the other hand, in the case where it is determined that the combination of the types of authentication information has been received from the customer server 5 (Yes in S42), the combination sending unit 305 sends the received combination of the types of authentication information to the cash register 9 (S43).

[0259] Next, the authentication receiving unit 306 determines whether a plurality of authentication information corresponding to the combination of the types of authentication information sent from the cash register 9 in S43 has been received (S44). In the case where it has not been received (No in S43), it waits until it is received. In the case where it is determined that a plurality of authentication information has been received from the cash register 9 (Yes in S44), the inquiry unit 307 sends the received authentication information to the customer server 5 (S45).

[0260] Next, the member receiving unit 308 determines whether, in response to the inquiry unit 307 sending a plurality of authentication information to the customer server 5, the associated member number and payment medium information have been received from the customer server 5 (S46). In the case where it has not been received (No in S46), it waits until it is received. In the case where it is determined that it has been received (Yes in S46), the storage control unit 301 stores the payment medium information in the member information unit 332 based on the received member number (S47).

[0261] Specifically, the storage control unit 301 stores the received payment medium information in the payment medium unit 3323, and the payment medium unit 3323 is associated with the member number unit 3321 that stores the same member number as the received member number.

[0262] Next, the registration specifying unit 309 specifies the product registration information and payment medium information stored in association with the received member number in the member information unit 332 (S48). Then, the settlement transmitter 310 transmits the specified product registration information and payment medium information to the checkout machine 9 that is the transmission source of the multiple authentication information received in S44 (S49). Then, the control unit 300 returns the process to S21.

[0263] Next, the control unit 300 determines whether sales data has been received from the checkout machine 9 (S51). If it is determined that the sales data has not been received (No in S51), the control unit 300 returns the process to S21.

[0264] If it is determined that the sales data has been received (Yes in S51), the storage control unit 301 adds and stores the received sales data in the sales information unit 331 (S52) to manage the sales of store T.

[0265] Based on the multiple authentication information received from the checkout machine 9, the store server 3 of this embodiment can send the product registration information of the products purchased by the member specified by the multiple authentication information and the payment medium information related to the member to the checkout machine 9.

[0266] Next, the control of the customer server 5 will be described. Figure 17 It is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing flow of the customer server 5.

[0267] As Figure 15 shown, the control unit 500 of the customer server 5 determines whether it has received the associated member number, multiple authentication information, quantity information for member specification, and payment medium information from the member registration terminal 4 (S61). If it is determined that the information has been received (Yes in S61), the control unit 500 stores the received member number, multiple authentication information, and payment medium information in the member management unit 531 and performs the member registration process for the member (S62).

[0268] Specifically, the control unit 500 stores the received member number in the member number unit 5311. In addition, the control unit 500 stores the received multiple authentication information in the authentication information unit 5312. In addition, the control unit 500 stores the received quantity information for member designation in the quantity information unit 5313. In addition, the control unit 500 stores the received payment medium information in the payment medium unit 5314. Then, the control unit 500 returns the process to S61.

[0269] In addition, when it is determined that the member number, the multiple authentication information, the quantity information for member designation, and the payment medium information have not been received from the member registration terminal 4 (No in S61), the quantity receiving unit 501 determines whether quantity information for settlement processing has been received from the store server 3 (S71). When it is determined that the quantity information for settlement processing has not been received from the store server 3 (No in S71), the control unit 500 returns the process to S61.

[0270] On the other hand, when it is determined that the quantity information for settlement processing has been received from the store server 3 (Yes in S61), the combination determination unit 502 determines the combination of the types of authentication information to be used for member designation based on the quantity information for settlement processing received in S61 (S72).

[0271] Specifically, the combination determination unit 502 randomly selects the types of multiple authentication information corresponding to the received quantity information for settlement processing from the types of multiple authentication information adopted in store T. Then, the combination determination unit 502 determines the combination of the randomly selected types of authentication information as the combination of the types of authentication information to be used for member designation.

[0272] As an example, consider the case where the combination of the types of authentication information randomly selected from the mobile phone number, the identity authentication number, the name, the user name, the password, the string representing the favorite food, and the facial image is the mobile phone number, the identity authentication number, and the password. In this case, the combination determination unit 502 determines the mobile phone number, the identity authentication number, and the password as the combination of the types of authentication information to be used for member designation.

[0273] Then, the combination sending unit 503 sends the combination of the types of authentication information determined in S72 to the store server 3 (S73).

[0274] Next, the inquiry receiving unit 504 determines whether multiple authentication information has been received from the store server 3 (S81). When it is determined that multiple authentication information has not been received from the store server 3 (No in S81), the control unit 500 stands by until multiple authentication information is received.

[0275] On the other hand, in the case where it is determined that a plurality of authentication information has been received from the store server 3 (Yes in S81), the member specifying unit 505 retrieves the member management unit 531 based on the received plurality of authentication information, and specifies the member number, the quantity information for member specification, and the payment medium information stored in the member management unit 531 in association with the plurality of authentication information (S82).

[0276] Next, the control unit 500 determines whether the quantity information for settlement processing received in S71 matches the quantity information for member specification specified in S82 (S91). In the case where it is determined that they match (Yes in S91), the member number and the payment medium information specified in S82 are sent to the store server 3 (S92). Then, the control unit 500 ends this process and returns the process to S61.

[0277] On the other hand, in the case where it is determined that they do not match (No in S91), a control command for aborting the settlement processing of the cash register 9 is sent to the store server 3 (S93). Then, the control unit 500 ends this process and returns the process to S61.

[0278] Next, the control of the cash register 9 will be described. Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the control processing flow of the cash register 9.

[0279] As Figure 18 shown, the control unit 900 of the cash register 9 determines whether an input of an operation to start the settlement processing has been received from the customer (S151). For example, the control unit 900 determines whether a pressing input to an operation control for starting the settlement processing has been received from the customer via a menu screen for performing various processes displayed on the display 97 of the cash register 9. In the case where it is determined that the operation to start the settlement processing has not been received (No in S151), the process in S151 is repeated.

[0280] In the case where it is determined that the operation to start the settlement processing has been received (Yes in S151), the control unit 900 displays a quantity information input screen on the display 97 (S161).

[0281] Next, the quantity acquisition unit 901 determines whether quantity information for settlement processing has been acquired from the customer (S162).

[0282] For example, when an operation of inputting determined quantity information is received from a customer via the quantity information input screen displayed on the display 97 in S161, the quantity acquisition unit 901 acquires the input content as the quantity information to be used for settlement processing. In this case, the quantity acquisition unit 901 determines that the quantity information for settlement processing has been acquired. When it is determined that the quantity information to be used in the settlement processing has not been acquired (No in S162), it stands by until the quantity information to be used in the settlement processing is acquired.

[0283] On the other hand, when it is determined that the quantity information for settlement processing has been acquired (Yes in S162), the quantity acquisition unit 901 stores the acquired quantity information for settlement processing in the quantity information unit 932 (S163). Then, the quantity transmission unit 902 transmits the quantity information for settlement processing stored in the quantity information unit 932 to the store server 3 (S164).

[0284] Next, the combination reception unit 903 determines whether a combination of types of authentication information for member designation has been received from the store server 3 (S171). When it is determined that the combination of types of authentication information has not been received (No in S171), it stands by until the combination of types of authentication information is received.

[0285] On the other hand, when it is determined that the combination of types of authentication information has been received (Yes in S171), the control unit 900 displays an authentication information input screen on the display 97 (S172).

[0286] As an example, when the combination of types of authentication information is a mobile phone number, an identity authentication number, and a password, the control unit 900 displays an authentication information input screen including an input form for inputting a mobile phone number, an input form for inputting an identity authentication number, and an input form for inputting a password on the display 97. In addition, when the combination of types of authentication information includes a face image, the control unit 900 may display an operation control for transitioning to a face capture screen on the authentication information input screen.

[0287] Next, the authentication acquisition unit 904 determines whether a plurality of pieces of authentication information have been acquired from the customer (S173). For example, when an operation of inputting determined authentication information is received from the customer via the quantity information input screen displayed on the display 97 in S172, the authentication acquisition unit 904 acquires the input content as authentication information.

[0288] As an example, consider the case where the combination of authentication information types is a mobile phone number, an identity authentication number, and a password. In this case, when the authentication acquisition unit 904 receives from the customer an operation for determining the input of each of the mobile phone number, the identity authentication number, and the password, it acquires the input content corresponding to each piece of information as multiple authentication information.

[0289] In this case, the authentication acquisition unit 904 determines that multiple authentication information has been acquired. In the case where it is determined that multiple pieces of information have not been acquired (No in S173), it waits until multiple pieces of information are acquired.

[0290] On the other hand, in the case where it is determined that multiple authentication information has been acquired (Yes at S173), the authentication acquisition unit 904 stores the acquired multiple authentication information in the authentication information unit 931 (S174). Then, the authentication transmission unit 905 transmits the authentication information stored in the authentication information unit 931 to the store server 3 (S175). That is, the checkout machine 9 transmits the acquired multiple authentication information to inquire about information related to the member.

[0291] Next, the control unit 900 determines whether it has received merchandise registration information and payment medium information in response to the multiple authentication information transmitted in S175 from the store server 3 (S181). In the case where it is determined that the merchandise registration information and the payment medium information have not been received (No in S181), the control unit 900 waits until the merchandise registration information and the payment medium information are received.

[0292] In the case where it is determined that the merchandise registration information and the payment medium information have been received (Yes in S181), the settlement reception unit 906 stores the received merchandise registration information and payment medium information (S182).

[0293] Specifically, the settlement reception unit 906 stores the received merchandise registration information (the merchandise registration information of the merchandise that the customer who has transmitted multiple authentication information wants to purchase, including the total amount (payment amount)) in the merchandise registration information unit 933. In addition, the received payment medium information (the payment medium information specifying the payment medium that can be used by the customer who has transmitted the authentication information in payment (settlement processing)) is stored in the medium storage unit 934.

[0294] Next, the control unit 900 determines whether the available payment media stored in the medium storage unit 934 are of multiple types (S183).

[0295] In the case where there is only one available payment medium (for example Figure 9For member C in [[]], the only payment medium available for use is credit card A. Therefore, the available payment medium is a "no" in (S183). The settlement processing unit 908 uses this payment medium and uses the product registration information stored in the product registration information unit 933 to perform settlement processing (S186). Then, the control unit 900 ends the processing.

[0296] In addition, when it is determined that there are multiple available payment media (yes in S183), the selection unit 907 displays a medium selection screen on the display 97, and this medium selection screen shows the available payment media stored in the medium storage unit 934 (S184).

[0297] For example, Figure 9 For member A in [[]], the payment media available for use are two types, credit card A and electronic money A. Therefore, it corresponds to "yes" in S183. In addition, Figure 9 For member B in [[]], the payment media available for use are two types, credit card B and code settlement B. Therefore, it corresponds to "yes" in S183. Therefore, in S184, a medium selection screen showing the available payment media is displayed to member A and member B.

[0298] Figure 19 is an example of the medium selection screen displayed to member A. As Figure 20 shown, the display 97 displays the medium selection screen Gb related to member A. The content shown on the medium selection screen Gb includes the display Gba indicating the payment media available for member A, the message Gbb prompting member A to select the payment medium to be used, the display Gbc of credit card A as the payment medium available for member A, and the display Gbd of electronic money A.

[0299] When member A selects credit card A as the payment medium to be used, member A operates the button (operation unit 96) at the position corresponding to the display Gbc of credit card A on the touch panel. When member A selects electronic money A as the payment medium to be used, member A operates the button (operation unit 96) at the position corresponding to the display Gbd of electronic money A on the touch panel.

[0300] Figure 20 is an example of the medium selection screen displayed to member B. As Figure 20 shown, the display 97 displays the medium selection screen Gd related to member B. The content shown on the medium selection screen Gd includes the display Gda showing the payment media available for member B, the message Gdb prompting member B to select the payment medium to be used, the display Gdc of credit card B as the payment medium available for member B, and the display Gdd of code settlement B.

[0301] When Member B selects Credit Card B as the payment medium to be used, the member operates the button (operation unit 96) at the position on the touch panel corresponding to the display Gdc of Credit Card B. When Member B selects Code Settlement B as the payment medium to be used, the member operates the button (operation unit 96) at the position on the touch panel corresponding to the display Gdd of Code Settlement B.

[0302] In this way, the available payment media displayed on the media selection screen are different for Member A and Member B. That is, the checkout machine 9 displays the payment media pre-registered by the member during member registration as the available payment media. Therefore, in S184, the payment media registered by each member is displayed corresponding to each member.

[0303] Return to Figure 18 the description of. Next, the control unit 900 determines whether any payment medium has been selected (S185). If not (No in S185), the control unit 900 stands by until it is selected.

[0304] On the other hand, if it is determined that any payment medium has been selected (Yes in S185), the settlement processing unit 908 uses the selected payment medium to perform settlement processing related to the merchandise registration information stored in the merchandise registration information unit 933 (S186). In the settlement processing, the control unit 900 issues a receipt printed with the merchandise registration information, settlement information, etc. of the merchandise purchased by the member. Then, the control unit 900 ends the processing.

[0305] In addition, when the available payment medium stored in the medium storage unit 934 is one payment medium (No in S183), the processing in S184 is not performed and the medium selection screen is not displayed (for example, in the case of Member C in Figure 9 the medium selection screen is not displayed). That is, since there is no need to select a payment medium when the available payment medium is one payment medium, the settlement processing is automatically performed using this payment medium without displaying the medium selection screen.

[0306] The checkout machine 9 in this embodiment sends the obtained multiple authentication information to the store server 3 and performs settlement processing based on the received merchandise registration information and payment medium information of the merchandise purchased by the member as a response. Therefore, there is no need to read the membership card in the checkout machine 9.

[0307] In addition, when there are multiple pre-registered available payment media, the checkout machine 9 of the embodiment displays a media selection screen showing the payment media. Therefore, the member selects one payment media from the displayed payment media, and the checkout machine 9 uses this payment media to perform the settlement process. In addition, when the pre-registered payment media is one payment media, the settlement process is automatically performed using this payment media without displaying the media selection screen. Therefore, there is no need to select a payment media for the settlement process in the checkout machine 9.

[0308] As described above, the merchandise sales data processing system 1 of the embodiment acquires a plurality of authentication information, and based on the acquired plurality of authentication information, sends the merchandise registration information of the merchandise purchased by the member specified by the plurality of authentication information and the payment media information specifying the payment media used by the member from the store server 3, and performs the settlement process on the merchandise registration information using the payment media information without reading the payment media.

[0309] The merchandise sales data processing system 1 of this embodiment receives the merchandise registration information and the payment media information of the merchandise purchased by the member corresponding to the plurality of authentication information of the acquired member from the store server 3, and performs the settlement process based on the merchandise registration information and the payment media information. Therefore, there is no need to read the membership card in the checkout machine 9.

[0310] In addition, the merchandise sales data processing system 1 of the embodiment registers a plurality of types of authentication information, randomly determines the types of the plurality of authentication information for specifying a member, acquires the authentication information corresponding to each of the determined types of the plurality of authentication information, and specifies a member based on the acquired plurality of authentication information. And, when the merchandise sales data processing system 1 of the embodiment cannot specify a member based on the acquired plurality of authentication information, the settlement process is aborted.

[0311] In the merchandise sales data processing system 1 of this embodiment, each time the settlement process is performed, the plurality of authentication information for member specification is randomly determined. In addition, in the merchandise sales data processing system 1 of the embodiment, the settlement process is not performed unless the plurality of authentication information input by the customer exactly matches the plurality of registered authentication information. Therefore, for example, even if one of the plurality of registered authentication information is known to others, it is possible to prevent others from performing the settlement process. That is, according to the merchandise sales data processing system 1 of the embodiment, the security in the settlement process can be improved.

[0312] In the above-described embodiment, when the available payment media is one payment media, the media selection screen is not displayed. However, this is not limited thereto, and the media selection screen may be displayed even when the available payment media is one payment media.

[0313] In addition, in the above-described embodiments, the registration machine 7, the store server 3, and the checkout machine 9 are described as the merchandise sales data processing system 1. However, this is not limitative. The merchandise sales data processing system 1 only needs to include at least the registration machine 7 and the settlement machine 9. On this basis, it may include the store server 3 and the customer server 5, and may also include the membership registration terminal 4. In addition, the registration machine 7 and the checkout machine 9 may be configured as an integrated independent device.

[0314] In addition, in the above-described embodiments, the checkout machine 9 may have part or all of the functions of the store server 3, the membership registration terminal 4, the customer server 5, and the registration machine 7. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the checkout machine 9 may include the functions related to membership registration processing (registration unit), the combination determination unit 502 (determination unit), the member designation unit 505 (control unit), the member transmission unit 506 (control unit), and the member management unit 531 that the customer server 5 has.

[0315] In addition, in the above-described embodiments, the membership number is described as the member designation information. However, this is not limitative. For example, a customer code or the like stored in a membership card or the like issued to a member may be used as the member designation information. In addition, the member designation information may also be stored or shown in a medium other than the card issued to a member.

[0316] In addition, in the above-described embodiments, the customer server 5 stores the quantity information for member designation. When it does not match the quantity information for settlement processing obtained by the checkout machine 9 during the settlement processing, a control command to abort the settlement processing is sent to the checkout machine 9 via the store server 3. However, the processing of the quantity information by each functional unit is not essential. In this case, the combination determination unit 502 of the customer server 5 may randomly determine the number (quantity) of types of authentication information for member designation. That is, it may be randomly determined without relying on the second quantity information.

[0317] In addition, the program executed by the checkout machine 9 of the above-described embodiments is stored in a computer-readable non-temporary storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a floppy disk (FD), a CD-R, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), etc. in an installable or executable form and provided.

[0318] In addition, it may be configured to store the program executed by the checkout machine 9 of the embodiments in a computer connected to a network such as the Internet, and provide it by downloading via the network. In addition, it may be configured to provide or distribute the program executed by the checkout machine 9 of the embodiments via a network such as the Internet.

[0319] In addition, it may be configured to pre-install the program executed by the checkout machine 9 of the embodiments in a ROM or the like and provide it.

[0320] So far, although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and do not limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments 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. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention and are included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A commodity sales data processing device, characterized in that: include: a registering unit that registers a plurality of types of designation information related to the designation of the user in the storage unit; a determination unit that determines, from among the plurality of types, a plurality of types of the specifying information for specifying the user; a designation unit that designates the user based on the designation information corresponding to each of the determined plurality of types of designation information and input information input by the user corresponding to each of the plurality of types of designation information; as well as The control unit permits the user to use the service related to the commodity transaction when the specifying unit has specified the user.

2. The commodity sales data processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit suppresses use of the service when the specifying unit cannot specify the user.

3. The commodity sales data processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The registration unit associates and registers the plurality of types of designation information and information indicating the available services, and the control unit permits use of the service associated with the designation information when the designation unit has designated a user.

4. The commodity sales data processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The determination unit randomly determines the number of types of the specifying information for specifying the user.

5. The commodity sales data processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The registration unit registers the first quantity information indicating the number of types of the plurality of the specifying information for specifying the user in association with the specifying information, The commodity sales data processing device further includes: an acquisition unit, which acquires second quantity information for using the service from a user when the user starts using the service, wherein: The determination unit determines the number of types of the designation information for designating the user based on the second number information, Even when the specifying unit has specified a user, the control unit may suppress the specified user from using the service when the first quantity information and the second quantity information do not match.

6. The commodity sales data processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The designation information includes a plurality of types of first information capable of uniquely designating the user and a plurality of types of second information related to authentication of the user set by the user, The determination unit determines the type of the first information to be a type of the plurality of designated information including at least one type.

7. The commodity sales data processing device according to claim 3, wherein: The information indicating the available service is code information or number information for specifying a payment medium used by a customer to pay for a product.

8. The commodity sales data processing device according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes: The acquisition unit acquires second quantity information for using the service from the user when the user starts using the service, wherein the determination unit determines the number of types of the designation information for designating the user based on the second quantity information.

9. The commodity sales data processing device according to claim 5, wherein: The acquisition unit displays, on a display, a quantity input screen including a message prompting input of a registered quantity and a form for inputting a numerical value.

10. A storage medium storing a program causing a computer of a commodity sales data processing device to function as the following units: a registering unit that registers a plurality of types of designation information related to the designation of the user in the storage unit; a determination unit that determines, from among the plurality of types, a plurality of types of the specifying information for specifying the user; a designation unit that designates the user based on the designation information corresponding to each of the determined plurality of types of designation information and input information input by the user corresponding to each of the plurality of types of designation information; as well as The control unit permits the user to use the service related to the commodity transaction when the specifying unit has specified the user.

Images