Checkout processing device and program storage medium

Abstract

The invention provides a checkout processing apparatus and a program storage medium. The checkout processing apparatus includes a registration screen display unit, a reception unit, a checkout screen display unit, and a checkout processing unit. When the input operation is accepted in the display of the standby screen, the registration screen display unit displays a product registration screen for accepting registration of first information relating to a product to be purchased. The receiving unit receives second information related to the commodity transaction from the registration device. When the second information is received, the checkout screen display unit displays a checkout screen for performing checkout processing on the product according to the second information. The checkout processing unit performs checkout processing on the product on the basis of the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a checkout processing device and a program storage medium. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in retail stores such as supermarkets, so-called semi-automatic or fully-automatic checkout systems have attracted attention from the perspectives of reducing labor and improving efficiency.

[0003] Semi-automatic checkout systems separate the register, which registers a customer's purchases, from the checkout, which accepts payment and settles transactions with the customer. Store employees operate the register, while customers operate the checkout.

[0004] On the other hand, the fully self-service checkout system has the functions of both a register for registering the customer's purchases and a checkout machine for accepting payment for the purchased goods and settling the transaction with the customer. The customer operates both the registration and payment of the purchased goods.

[0005] Checkout systems that can switch between semi-automatic and fully automated modes have been considered. However, switching operations requires special operations, such as staff switching operations or restarting the system to change the operating mode settings. Therefore, there is a need for technology that can easily switch to a state corresponding to semi-automatic or fully automated modes, for example, depending on store congestion.

[0006]

Prior art literature

[0007] [Patent Literature]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-076261 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a checkout processing device and a program storage medium that can easily change to a state corresponding to a semi-self-service mode or a fully self-service mode. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of the checkout system of this embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration machine.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the transaction processing device.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the server.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor of the transaction processing device according to the transaction program.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor of the transaction processing device according to the transaction program.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor of the registration machine according to the registration program.

[0017] Figure 8A This is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor of the registration machine according to the registration program.

[0018] Figure 8B This is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing performed by the processor of the registration machine according to the registration program.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0025] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0026] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0028] Figure 18This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine.

[0029] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine.

[0030] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine.

[0031] Figure 21 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine.

[0032] Figure 22 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine.

[0033] Figure 23 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine.

[0034] Figure 24 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel of the registration machine.

[0035] Figure 25 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0036] Figure 26 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0037] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0038] Figure 28 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0039] Figure 29 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0040] Figure 30 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0041] Figure 31 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0042] Figure 32 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0043] Figure 33 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device.

[0044] Figure 34 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a touch panel of a transaction processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The checkout processing device in the embodiment includes a registration screen display unit, a receiving unit, a checkout screen display unit, and a checkout processing unit. Upon receiving an input operation while the standby screen is displayed, the registration screen display unit displays a product registration screen for registering first information related to a product to be purchased. The receiving unit receives second information related to a product transaction from a registration machine. Upon receiving the second information, the checkout screen display unit displays a checkout screen for performing checkout processing for the product based on the second information. The checkout processing unit performs checkout processing for the product based on the first information received via the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving unit.

[0046] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a checkout processing device that can be easily changed to a state corresponding to a semi-automatic method or a fully-automatic method in a checkout system will be described using the drawings.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a checkout system 10 according to this embodiment. Checkout system 10 includes a register 11, a checkout processing device 12, a server 13, and a network 14 connecting them. The type of network 14 is not particularly limited, but a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) is typically used.

[0048] When the checkout system 10 operates in a semi-automatic mode, the register 11 is operated by a store clerk 21, who acts as a checker, to register the customer's purchased goods. When the checkout system 10 operates in either a semi-automatic mode or a fully-automatic mode, the checkout processing device 12 is operated by a customer 22 who purchases goods in the store. The checkout processing device 12 has the functions of both a register that registers the customer's purchased goods and a checkout device that accepts payment for the purchased goods and settles the transaction with the customer. When the checkout system 10 operates in a semi-automatic mode, the checkout processing device 12 operates as a checkout device (hybrid POS (Point Of Sales) device) that accepts payment for the purchased goods registered by the register 11 and settles the transaction with the customer. Alternatively, when the checkout system 10 operates in a fully-automatic mode, the checkout processing device 12 operates as a fully-automatic POS device that performs both the registration and payment of purchased goods through the customer's operation.

[0049] The customer 22 who operates the checkout processing device 12 to settle a purchase transaction can be referred to as a settler, a buyer, etc. It should be noted that transactions are not limited to payments for goods. For example, payments for services are also a form of transaction.

[0050] Registration machine 11 Figure 1 The workbench 23 is mounted on a workbench 23. The workbench 23 has a rectangular top plate. By arranging multiple workbench 23 so that the longitudinal directions of the top plates are roughly parallel, a passage for customers 22, i.e., a so-called checkout lane, is formed.

[0051] A registration machine 11 and a checkout processing device 12 are located for each checkout lane. For each checkout lane, one registration machine 11 and multiple checkout processing devices 12 are deployed. Furthermore, when the checkout system 10 operates in a semi-automated manner, the registration machine 11 transmits transaction-related information to the checkout processing device 12 located in the same checkout lane. The registration machine 11 can transmit transaction-related information to the checkout processing device 12 via or without the server 13. Furthermore, the registration machine 11 can transmit transaction-related information not only to the checkout processing device 12 located in the same checkout lane but also to checkout processing devices 12 located in adjacent checkout lanes.

[0052] By the way, in Figure 1 , an example is shown in which one registration machine 11 and two checkout processing devices 12 are respectively arranged for two checkout lanes. Specifically, one registration machine 11 (111) with a registration machine ID of "111", two checkout processing devices 12 (121) with checkout machine IDs of "121" and "122", and a checkout processing device 12 (122) are arranged in one checkout lane, and one registration machine 11 (112) with a registration machine ID of "112", two checkout processing devices 12 (123) with checkout machine IDs of "123" and "124", and a checkout processing device 12 (124) are arranged in the other checkout lane. In this configuration, in this embodiment, the register machine 11 (111) on one side can send transaction-related information to the checkout processing device 12 (121) and the checkout processing device 12 (122) in the same checkout lane, as well as to the checkout processing device 12 (123) in the adjacent checkout lane. Similarly, the register machine 11 (112) on the other side can send transaction-related information to the checkout processing device 12 (123) and the checkout processing device 12 (124) in the same checkout lane, as well as to the checkout processing device 12 (122) in the adjacent checkout lane.

[0053] The registration machine ID is a unique identifier set for each registration machine 11 to identify each registration machine 11. The checkout machine ID is a unique identifier set for each checkout processing device 12 to identify each checkout processing device 12.

[0054] On the other hand, if the store clerk 21 does not register the purchased goods at the register 11 and does not transmit transaction-related information to the checkout processing device 12, the checkout processing device 12 can process both the registration and payment of the purchased goods through the customer 22's operation. In other words, the system operates as a fully automated POS system.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the register machine 11. The register machine 11 includes a processor 31, main memory 32, auxiliary storage device 33, clock 34, communication interface 35, keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, printer 40, card reader 41, automatic change dispenser 42, and system transmission path 43. The system transmission path 43 includes an address bus, data bus, and control signal lines. The system transmission path 43 connects the processor 31 to other components directly or via signal input / output circuits, transmitting data signals between them.

[0056] The registration machine 11 is connected to a processor 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage device 33, a clock 34, and a communication interface 35 via a system transmission path 43, thereby forming a computer. Furthermore, the registration machine 11 is connected to devices such as a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, a touch panel 38, a customer display 39, a printer 40, and a card reader 41 via the system transmission path 43.

[0057] The processor 31 is equivalent to the central part of the computer. The processor 31 controls each part according to the operating system or application program to realize various functions of the registration machine 11. The processor 31 is preferably a multi-core or multi-threaded type that can execute multiple processes in parallel. The processor 31 can be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (for example, a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA)) and other processing circuits. The processor 31 is not limited to being configured as a single processing circuit, and a plurality of processing circuits can also be combined to form the processor 31.

[0058] The main memory 32 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. It includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 32 stores an operating system and application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 32 can store data required by the processor 31 to execute processes for controlling various components in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory areas. The main memory 32 uses the volatile memory area as a workspace where the processor 31 can rewrite data as needed. An example of the nonvolatile memory area is ROM (Read Only Memory). An example of the volatile memory area is RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0059] The auxiliary storage device 33 serves as the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be used as the auxiliary storage device 33. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores data used by the processor 31 during various processes, as well as data generated by the processor 31. The auxiliary storage device 33 may also store the application program.

[0060] The clock 34 keeps track of date and time. The processor 31 processes the date and time kept by the clock 34 as the current date and time.

[0061] The communication interface 35 performs data communication between the server 13 and the transaction processing device 12 connected via the network 14 . The communication interface 35 can also perform data communication with other registration machines 11 connected via the network 14 .

[0062] The keyboard 36 is an input device on which various keys necessary for inputting data related to products purchased by a customer are arranged.

[0063] The scanner 37 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The scanner 37 may be a type that reads code symbols by laser scanning or a type that reads code symbols from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0064] The touch panel 38 is a display device capable of displaying display elements such as text, symbols, and images. Furthermore, the touch panel 38 is an input device that uses sensors to detect the location of a touch operation on the display and processes the touch operation as if the display element at that location had been input. The touch panel 38 displays information to the store clerk who operates the register 11 and receives operational input from the clerk.

[0065] The customer display 39 is a display device provided to display information such as product names and prices of products registered in the registration machine 11 to the customer 22 .

[0066] The printer 40 is an output device that prints data related to purchase receipts, credit card receipts, and other items onto receipt paper. The receipt paper, printed with various data by the printer 40, is cut by a cutter and issued from the receipt outlet. The printer 40 is implemented, for example, as a thermal printer or impact dot matrix printer.

[0067] The card reader 41 is an input device that reads data recorded on card media such as credit cards, electronic money cards, and points cards. If the card medium is a magnetic card, the card reader 41 is a magnetic card reader. If the card medium is an IC card, the card reader 41 is an IC card reader. The registration machine 11 may include either a magnetic card reader or an IC card reader as the card reader 41, or both. The card reader 41 may be a card reader / writer capable of writing data to a card.

[0068] The automatic change machine 42 is a device that handles cash. It has a banknote insertion slot, a banknote dispensing slot, a coin insertion slot, and a coin dispensing slot. The automatic change machine 42 processes banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion slot. It dispenses banknotes as change from the banknote dispensing slot. The automatic change machine 42 receives and processes coins inserted into the coin insertion slot. It dispenses coins as change from the coin dispensing slot.

[0069] As the hardware of such a registration machine 11, for example, an existing POS terminal can be used. It should be noted that the device connected to the registration machine 11 is not limited to Figure 2 The illustrated components include a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, a touch panel 38, a customer display 39, a printer 40, and a card reader 41. Devices necessary for the use of the registration machine 11 may be added, or some of the devices may be omitted.

[0070] The registration machine 11 uses a portion of the volatile storage area of ​​the main memory 32 as an area of ​​the status table 321. The status table 321 is an area for storing information indicating the status of the plurality of transaction processing devices 12 connected to the registration machine 11.

[0071] The status table 321 stores the status in association with the checkout device ID. The status is information indicating the status of the checkout processing device 12 identified by the corresponding checkout machine ID. Specifically, the status is set to "0" when it indicates that the checkout processing device 12 is in a state where it can receive information related to the transaction, "1" when it indicates that the checkout processing device 12 is in the process of checking out, and "2" when it indicates that the checkout processing device 12 is on standby after the settlement is completed. In addition, for the checkout processing device 12 that is not the target of the transaction-related information, its status is set to "9". Therefore, Figure 4 The status table 321 of the registration machine 11 (111) with the registration machine ID "111" is shown. The status table 321 of the registration machine 11 (112) with the registration machine ID "112" shows the status "9" for the transaction processing device 12 (121) with the transaction machine ID "121", and the statuses of the other transaction processing devices 12 are "0", "1", or "2".

[0072] The register 11 registers a customer's purchased goods through the operation of the store clerk 21. The processor 31 is installed with a registration program that implements a function for transmitting information about the purchased goods to the checkout processing device 12. The registration program is a type of application software and is installed in the auxiliary storage device 33. The registration program can be installed in the main memory 32. The method for installing the registration program in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33 is not particularly limited. The checkout program can be recorded on a removable storage medium or distributed via network communication and installed in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The storage medium can be of any form as long as it can store programs, such as an SD memory card or USB memory, and can be read by the device.

[0073] Figure 3This is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the transaction processing device 12. The transaction processing device 12 includes a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication interface 65, automatic change dispenser 66, touch panel 67, card reader 68, scanner 69, printer 70, and system transmission path 71. System transmission path 71 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, and other components. System transmission path 71 connects the processor 61 and other components directly or via signal input / output circuits, transmitting data signals between them.

[0074] The transaction processing device 12 comprises a computer, comprising a processor 61, a main memory 62, an auxiliary storage device 63, a clock 64, and a communication interface 65 connected via a system transmission path 71. Furthermore, the transaction processing device 12 is connected to devices such as an automatic change dispenser 66, a touch panel 67, a card reader 68, a scanner 69, and a printer 70 via the system transmission path 71.

[0075] The processor 61 is the core of the computer. It controls various components according to the operating system and application programs to implement the various functions of the transaction processing device 12. The processor 61 is preferably a multi-core or multi-threaded processor capable of executing multiple processes in parallel. For example, the processor 61 is a CPU.

[0076] The main memory 62 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. It includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 62 stores an operating system and application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 62 can store data required by the processor 61 to execute processes for controlling various components in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory areas. The main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a workspace where the processor 61 can rewrite data as needed. For example, the nonvolatile memory area is ROM, while the volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0077] Auxiliary storage device 63 serves as the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD may be used as auxiliary storage device 63. Auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by processor 61 during various processes, data generated by processor 61, and the like. Auxiliary storage device 63 may also store the application program.

[0078] Auxiliary storage device 63 also stores a settings file 631 containing screen configuration data indicating whether to display a first checkout screen (e.g., the payment method selection screen described later) containing a button (e.g., the "Back" button described later) for receiving an instruction to switch to the product registration screen, or a second checkout screen (e.g., the "Back" button) without a button ("Back" button). The first and second checkout screens are switched based on the "Display / Hide" setting of the "Back" button indicated by the screen configuration data.

[0079] The screen setting data can be pre-set in the setting process based on the operation of an administrator, etc., or can be changed in the operation (action) of the checkout processing device 12, for example, by operating a screen change button for receiving a switching instruction of the checkout screen set on the product registration screen.

[0080] The clock 64 keeps time of date and time. The processor 61 processes the date and time kept by the clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0081] The communication interface 65 performs data communication with the server 13 or the registration machine 11 connected via the network 14. The communication interface 65 can also perform data communication with other transaction processing devices 12 connected via the network 14.

[0082] The automatic change machine 66 is a device that handles cash. It has a banknote insertion slot, a banknote dispensing slot, a coin insertion slot, and a coin dispensing slot. The automatic change machine 66 processes banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion slot. It dispenses banknotes as change from the banknote dispensing slot. The automatic change machine 66 receives and processes coins inserted into the coin insertion slot. It dispenses coins as change from the coin dispensing slot.

[0083] The touch panel 67 is a display device capable of displaying display elements such as text, symbols, and images (including buttons) on the display. Furthermore, the touch panel 67 is also an input device that uses a sensor to detect the location of a touch operation on the display and processes the touch operation as if the display element at that location has been input. The touch panel 67 displays information to the customer, who is the operator of the checkout processing device 12, and receives operational input from the customer.

[0084] The card reader 68 is an input device that reads data recorded on card media such as credit cards, electronic money cards, and loyalty cards. When the card medium is a magnetic card, the card reader 68 is a magnetic card reader. When the card medium is an IC card, the card reader 68 is an IC card reader. The transaction processing device 12 may include either a magnetic card reader or an IC card reader as the card reader 68, or both. The card reader 68 may be a card reader / writer capable of writing data to a card.

[0085] The scanner 69 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The scanner 69 may be a type that reads code symbols by laser scanning or a type that reads code symbols from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0086] Printer 70 is an output device that prints data related to purchase receipts, credit card receipts, and other items onto receipt paper. The receipt paper, printed with various data by printer 70, is cut by a cutter and issued from the receipt outlet. Printer 70 is implemented, for example, as a thermal printer or impact dot matrix printer.

[0087] As the hardware of such a checkout processing device 12, for example, an existing fully self-service POS terminal can be used. It should be noted that the equipment connected to the checkout processing device 12 is not limited to Figure 3 The automatic change machine 66, touch panel 67, card reader 68, scanner 69 and printer 70 are shown. Required equipment for the purpose of the transaction processing device 12 may be added, or some equipment may be omitted.

[0088] The checkout processing device 12 is equipped with a processor 61 that implements a checkout program that functions as both a register for registering customers' purchases and a checkout machine for accepting payment for these purchases and settling transactions with customers. The checkout program is a type of application software and is installed in the auxiliary storage device 63. The checkout program can be installed in the main memory 62. There are no specific restrictions on the method for installing the checkout program in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The checkout program can be recorded on a removable storage medium or distributed via network communication and installed in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The storage medium can be of any form, as long as it can store programs, such as an SD memory card or USB memory, and can be read by the device.

[0089] The register 11 transmits information related to the registered commodity transaction to the checkout processing device 12, which is in a state capable of receiving transaction-related information (i.e., the checkout processing device 12 is in status "0"). Upon receiving the information related to the commodity transaction, the checkout processing device 12 transmits a checkout start response data signal to the register 11, in order to operate as a semi-automatic checkout device (hybrid POS device). In this case, the checkout processing device 12 executes the checkout process based on the commodity transaction-related information received from the register 11.

[0090] Furthermore, if the checkout processing device 12 receives an input operation from the customer 22 while the standby screen is displayed, without receiving any information related to the commodity transaction registered from the register 11, the checkout processing device 12 transmits a checkout start response data signal to the register 11 to operate as a fully self-service POS device. In this case, the checkout processing device 12 executes the checkout process based on the information related to the purchased commodity received through the customer 22's operation on the commodity registration screen.

[0091] After the transaction process is completed, the transaction processing device 12 transmits a transaction completion response data signal to the registration machine 11 .

[0092] When the register 11 receives a transaction start response signal from the transaction processing device 12, it changes the status value indicating the status of the transaction processing device 12 from "0" to "1." Furthermore, when the register 11 receives a transaction end response signal from the transaction processing device 12, it changes the status value indicating the status of the transaction processing device 12 from "1" to "0." The transaction processing device 12 whose status value has been changed to "0" can become the destination for transaction-related information from the register 11.

[0093] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of server 13. Server 13 includes a processor 81, main memory 82, auxiliary storage device 83, clock 84, communication interface 85, touch panel 87, keyboard 88, printer 70, and system transmission path 91. System transmission path 71 includes an address bus, a data bus, and control signal lines. System transmission path 91 connects processor 81 and other components directly or via signal input / output circuits, transmitting data signals between them.

[0094] The server 13 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 81, a main memory 82, an auxiliary storage device 83, a clock 84, and a communication interface 85 on a system transmission path 71. Furthermore, the server 13 is connected to devices such as a touch panel 87, a keyboard 88, and a printer 70 via the system transmission path 71.

[0095] The processor 81 is the core of the computer. The processor 81 controls each component according to the operating system or application program to implement the various functions of the server 13. The processor 81 is preferably a multi-core or multi-threaded type capable of executing multiple processes in parallel. The processor 81 is, for example, a CPU.

[0096] The main memory 82 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. It includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 82 stores an operating system and application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 82 can store data required by the processor 81 to execute processes for controlling various components in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory areas. The main memory 82 uses the volatile memory area as a workspace where the processor 81 can rewrite data as needed. For example, the nonvolatile memory area is ROM, and the volatile memory area is RAM.

[0097] Auxiliary storage device 83 serves as the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD may be used as auxiliary storage device 83. Auxiliary storage device 83 stores data used by processor 81 during various processes, data generated by processor 81, and the like. Auxiliary storage device 83 may also store the application program.

[0098] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 83 stores a configuration file 15 containing screen setting data for multiple transaction processing devices 12 connected via the network 14. The configuration files (screen setting data) stored in the transaction processing devices 12 can be set individually by a store clerk 21 or the like operating the transaction processing device 12 (for example, by operating a screen change button on the product registration screen), or they can be set collectively for multiple transaction processing devices 12 by an administrator or the like operating the configuration process on the server 13. The configuration files set for the transaction processing devices 12 contain the screen setting data for the transaction processing devices 12. The screen setting data set on the server 13 is transmitted to the CC (Carbon Copy) transaction processing devices 12 and stored as configuration files in each transaction processing device 12.

[0099] The clock 84 keeps track of date and time. The processor 81 processes the date and time kept by the clock 84 as the current date and time.

[0100] The communication interface 85 performs data communication with the server 13 or the registration machine 11 connected via the network 14. The communication interface 85 can also perform data communication with other servers 13 connected via the network 14.

[0101] The touch panel 87 is a display device capable of displaying display elements such as text, symbols, and images (including buttons) on the display. Furthermore, the touch panel 87 is also an input device that uses a sensor to detect the location of a touch operation on the display and processes the touch operation as if the display element at that location had been input. The touch panel 87 displays information to a customer who is an operator of the server 13 and receives operational input from the customer.

[0102] The keyboard 88 is an input device operated by an administrator, etc. The printer 70 is an output device that prints various data stored in the server 13 .

[0103] As the hardware of such server 13, for example, an existing personal computer can be used. It should be noted that the device connected to the server 13 is not limited to Figure 4 The touch panel 87, keyboard 88 and printer 70 are shown. It is also possible to add devices necessary for the use of the server 13 or omit some of the devices.

[0104] (Description of the action)

[0105] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor 61 of the transaction processing device 12 according to the transaction program. Figure 7 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B This flowchart illustrates the main steps of information processing performed by the processor 31 of the register 11 according to the registration program. The following figures illustrate the main operations of the checkout system 10. It should be noted that the information processing steps and content described below are merely examples. The steps and content are not particularly limited as long as the same results are achieved.

[0106] First, the setting operation of the setting file (screen setting data) before starting operation in the transaction processing device 12, that is, the setting operation of "display / no display" of the "return" button on the payment selection screen, will be described. Figures 9 to 17 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel 67 of the transaction processing device 12 .

[0107] The processor 61 of the transaction processing device 12 in the standby state causes the touch panel 67 to display the standby screen DA0 ( Figure 5 ,ACT11). Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing an example of a standby screen DA0 in the transaction processing device 12. On the standby screen DA0, for example, a message "Welcome / Please touch the screen" is displayed to the customer 22 urging them to operate the touch panel 67.

[0108] When a touch operation is detected on the touch panel 67 ("YES" in ACT12), the processor 61 displays the product registration start screen DA1 on the touch panel 67 (ACT13). Figure 10 This figure shows an example of a product registration start screen in the checkout processing device 12. For example, the product registration start screen DA1 includes buttons for allowing the customer 22 to select a paid shopping bag, an eco-friendly bag, or a non-required bag before registering the purchased product, and a "Call a Store Employee" button DA11.

[0109] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the button for selecting a paid shopping bag, an eco-friendly bag, or a free bag ("YES" in ACT 14), the processor 61 displays the product registration screen DA3 on the touch panel 67 (ACT 15). Figure 11 : This is a diagram showing an example of a product registration screen DA3 in the checkout processing device 12. The product registration screen DA3 is a screen configured with a detail area and a total area. The detail area is an area for displaying the product name, quantity, unit price and amount of the purchased products in a list format according to a series of numbered orders. It should be noted that the items displayed in the detail area are not limited to the product name, quantity, unit price and amount. Other items can be added, and any item, such as the amount, can also be omitted. The total area is an area for separately displaying the total number (pieces) and the total amount (yen) displayed in the detail area. It should be noted that the items displayed in the total area are not limited to the total number and the total amount. Other items can be added, and any item, such as the total number, can also be omitted.

[0110] The product registration screen DA3 also includes a "Call a Staff" button DA31 and a screen change button DA32. The screen change button DA32 is used to switch between a first checkout screen (e.g., the payment method selection screen described later) that includes a "Back" button for receiving an instruction to switch to the product registration screen and a second checkout screen that does not include a "Back" button. By pressing the screen change button DA32, the screen setting data is changed, and the "Back" button is switched between being displayed and not being displayed.

[0111] When a touch operation on the screen change button DA32 of the product registration screen DA3 is detected ("NO" in ACT16 → "YES" in ACT17), the processor 61 refers to the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 and determines whether the "return" button is set to "displayed / not displayed" (first checkout screen / second checkout screen) (ACT18).

[0112] Note that the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 may always retain the settings made by an administrator or the like when the transaction processing device 12 is powered on, or may retain the settings made during the previous operation.

[0113] The processor 61 displays the screen change confirmation screen on the touch panel 67 according to the setting contents indicated by the screen setting data (ACT 19 ).

[0114] For example, when it is determined that the screen setting data indicates that the "return" button is "displayed" (first checkout screen), the processor 61 displays the following: Figure 12The screen change confirmation screen is displayed as shown. Figure 12 The screen change confirmation screen DA4 shown displays a message indicating the current status, "[Return] Displayed." Upon detecting a touch operation on the "Yes" button DA42 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 changes the settings indicated by the screen setting data to "No Display" (the second checkout screen) for the "Return" button (ACT 21). Note that upon detecting a touch operation on the "No" button DA43 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT 15).

[0115] On the other hand, in ACT 18, if it is determined that the screen setting data indicates the screen setting of "no display" (second checkout screen) of the "return" button, the processor 61 displays the following Figure 13 The screen change confirmation screen is displayed as shown. Figure 13 The screen change confirmation screen DA5 shown displays a message indicating the current status: "[Return] No display." Upon detecting a touch operation on the "Yes" button DA52 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 changes the settings indicated by the screen setting data to "Display" (first checkout screen) for the "Return" button (ACT 21). Note that upon detecting a touch operation on the "No" button DA53 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT 15).

[0116] Figure 14 This figure shows an example of the product registration screen DA3 after the screen change confirmation screen is displayed. After completing the configuration file (screen configuration data), the "Call a Store Employee" button DA31 is pressed to return to the original screen (standby screen). Note that the screen can also return to the original screen (standby screen) after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0117] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Call a clerk" button DA31 of the product registration screen DA3 ("NO" in ACT16 → "NO" in ACT17 → "NO" in ACT32 → "YES" in ACT22), the call a clerk confirmation screen is displayed on the touch panel 67 (ACT23). Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of the store clerk call confirmation screen DA6.

[0118] When a touch operation on the "No" button DA63 of the call clerk confirmation screen DA6 is detected ("NO" in ACT24), the processor 61 returns to Figure 14On the other hand, when the touch operation of the "Yes" button D62 of the call clerk confirmation screen is detected ("YES" in ACT24), the processor 61 displays the call clerk screen on the touch panel 67 (ACT25). Figure 16 This is a diagram showing an example of the screen DA7 during the call to store clerk process.

[0119] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Interrupt Call" button DA71 on the "Calling a Employee" screen DA7 ("YES" in ACT 26), it waits for the employee code to be input. For example, the scanner 69 reads the employee barcode assigned to each employee and inputs the employee code (ACT 27). When the processor 61 confirms that the employee code read by the scanner 69 is legitimate, it causes the touch panel 67 to display the management menu screen DA8 (ACT 28). Figure 17 This is a diagram showing an example of the management menu screen DA8.

[0120] In the management menu screen DA8, buttons such as "Cash Processing", "Maintenance", and "POS Business" are provided. When the buttons are operated ("NO" in ACT29), the processor 61 executes various management processes (other processes) corresponding to the buttons (ACT30).

[0121] Here, in order to return to the original screen (standby screen), the "Call a clerk" button DA31 is operated, and therefore the "Return to original screen" button DA81 of the management menu screen DA8 is touched. When the "Return to original screen" button DA81 is operated ("YES" in ACT29), the processor 61 returns to the display Figure 9 The state of the standby screen DA0 is shown (ACT11).

[0122] In this way, in the checkout processing device 12, by operating the screen change button DA32 set on the product registration screen DA3, the screen setting data of the setting file 631 can be simply used to execute the setting (change of screen setting) of the "return" button in the checkout screen (payment method selection screen) to "display / not display" (first checkout screen / second checkout screen).

[0123] Next, the operations of the registration machine 11 and the transaction processing device 12 when the transaction system 10 is used in a semi-automatic manner will be described.

[0124] For example, when the store is crowded and a customer 22 is waiting to check out at the checkout processing device 12 during the fully self-service operation, the checkout system 10 operates in a semi-self-service mode, and the registration machine 11 is used to register the purchased goods through the operation of the clerk 21, and the checkout machine (hybrid POS device) is used as the checkout processing device 12, and the checkout process is performed through the operation of the customer 22. Figures 18 to 24 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel 38 of the registration machine 11 . Figures 25 to 31 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel 67 of the transaction processing device 12 .

[0125] The processor 31 of the registration machine 11 in the standby state displays the registration screen ( Figure 7 ACT71). Figure 18 1 is a diagram showing an example of the registration screen DB1 in the registration machine 11. Figure 18 Indicates the status of how many purchased items have been registered.

[0126] The registration screen DB1 is a screen configured with a detail area and a total area. The detail area is an area for displaying the product name, quantity, unit price and amount of the purchased goods in a list format according to a series of numbered orders. It should be noted that the items displayed in the detail area are not limited to the product name, quantity, unit price and amount. Other items can be added, and any item, such as the amount, can also be omitted. The total area is an area for separately displaying the total number (pieces) and the total amount (yen) displayed in the detail area. It should be noted that the items displayed in the total area are not limited to the total number and the total amount. Other items can be added, and any item, such as the total number, can also be omitted.

[0127] The processor 31, which has displayed the registration screen, waits for the registration of goods. Many goods are attached with a barcode representing the identification information of the goods, that is, the product code. Therefore, when the clerk 21 receives the checkout application for the purchased goods from the customer 22, he operates the scanner 37 to read the barcode attached to the purchased goods. By reading the barcode with the scanner 37, the product code of the purchased goods is input into the registration machine 11 (product registration). On the other hand, some goods such as fresh food sometimes do not have a barcode. In the case where the purchased goods are not attached with a barcode, the clerk 21 operates the soft key corresponding to the purchased goods, the so-called product key, from the soft key group of non-barcoded goods displayed in a part of the registration screen. When the product key is operated, the product code of the purchased goods corresponding to the product key is input into the registration machine 11. In this way, when the product code of the purchased goods is input into the registration machine 11, the processor 31 determines that there is a product registration.

[0128] If it is determined that a product has been registered ("YES" in ACT 72), processor 31 executes product sales data processing (ACT 73). Specifically, processor 31 searches the product file and obtains product data such as the product name and unit price of the product identified by the product code input via scanner 37 or touch panel 38. Processor 31 then stores the product sales data, including items such as the product code, product name, unit price, number of units sold, and sales amount, in the transaction memory. The transaction memory is part of the volatile memory area within main memory 32.

[0129] After completing the product sales data processing, the processor 31 waits for a request to register the next product to be purchased or to indicate a subtotal output. Subtotal output is indicated by operating a subtotal key. The subtotal key can be a hard key on the keyboard 36 or a soft key on the registration screen.

[0130] If there are other products to register ("YES" in ACT 74), the clerk 21 also performs the above-mentioned registration operation for the purchased products. The processor 31 executes the product sales data processing (ACT 73). When the registration operation for all purchased products is completed, the clerk 21 presses the subtotal key.

[0131] When subtotal output is instructed by operating the subtotal key ("YES" in ACT 75), the processor 31 displays the payment screen DB2 for the purchased product on the touch panel 38 based on the product sales data acquired by the product sales data processing. Figure 19 This figure shows an example of a payment screen DB2. The payment screen DB2 displays the subtotal amount, which is the sum of the sales amounts of the product sales data stored in the transaction memory through product sales data processing, and the number of products purchased. Furthermore, the payment screen DB2 includes a "Payment Method Selection" button DB21, which instructs the register 11 to execute the checkout process, and a "Checkout Transfer" button DB22, which allows the customer 22 to execute the checkout process at the checkout processing device 12.

[0132] If an operation other than the "Payment method selection" button DB21 or the "Checkout device transfer" button DB22 is performed on the payment screen DB2 ("NO" in ACT 77 → Figure 8B "NO" in ACT90), the processor 31 executes other processing corresponding to each button (ACT95).

[0133] Next, a description will be given of a case where a checkout process is executed in the registration machine 11 .

[0134] When the processor 31 instructs the checkout process in the registration machine 11 by operating the "payment method selection" button DB21 ("NO" in ACT 77 → Figure 8B ACT90 of the payment method is "YES"), and a payment method selection screen is displayed on the screen of the touch panel 38 (ACT91). The payment method selection screen displays soft keys such as a cash key, a credit card key, an electronic money key, and a code settlement key. A customer who pays for goods in cash operates the cash key to put cash into the automatic change machine. A customer who pays for goods by credit card operates the credit card key to read the credit card data with the card reader 41. A customer who pays for goods by electronic money operates the electronic money key to read the electronic money card data with the card reader. A customer who pays for goods by code settlement operates the code settlement key to read the settlement code displayed on the smartphone with the scanner 37.

[0135] The processor 31 that displays the payment method selection screen waits for the selection of any payment method such as the cash key, credit card key, electronic money key, or code settlement key. When an operation is performed to select any key ("YES" of ACT92), the processor 31 executes the checkout process (ACT93). For example, when the cash key is operated, the processor 31 executes the cash checkout process based on the cash put into the automatic change machine 42. For example, when the credit card key is operated, the processor 31 executes the credit card checkout process based on the credit card data read by the card reader 41. For example, when the electronic money key is operated, the electronic money checkout process is executed based on the electronic money card data read by the card reader 41. For example, when the code settlement key is operated, the code checkout process is executed based on the settlement code read by the scanner 37. Since these checkout processes are well-known processes, detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0136] When the checkout process is complete, the processor 31 controls the printer 40 to issue a receipt (ACT 94). After the receipt is issued, the processor 31 enters a standby state. Since the touch panel 38 screen is now in the standby state, the next customer can begin settlement.

[0137] Next, a case where transaction information is transmitted from the registration machine 11 and the transaction processing device 12 executes the transaction processing will be described.

[0138] When the processor 31 of the register 11 instructs the checkout processing device 12 to proceed with the checkout process by operating the "checkout machine forwarding" button DB22 on the payment screen DB2 displayed in ACT 76 ("YES" in ACT 77), it generates information related to the transaction used for the checkout process (transaction information) (ACT 78). For example, the processor 31 generates a transaction information file that records the product sales data of the purchased goods stored in the transaction memory, the transaction number, the transaction date and time, the register ID, and other transaction identification data. It should be noted that the information related to the transaction is not limited to the transaction information file described above. Importantly, the information related to the transaction is any information that can be used to settle the transaction of goods in the checkout processing device 12.

[0139] The processor 31 that created the transaction information file refers to the status table 321 and determines the checkout processing device 12 as the destination for sending the transaction-related information. Specifically, the processor 31 selects the checkout machine ID with a status value of "0" from the status table 321. At this time, when more than two checkout machine IDs are selected, the processor 31 selects any one of the checkout machine IDs according to a predetermined rule. For example, the checkout machine ID with the longest time since the last selection is selected is selected. The processor 31 determines the checkout processing device 12 of the selected checkout machine ID as the destination for sending the information related to the transaction. Figure 19 The payment screen DB2 shown indicates that “checkout machine 01” is determined as the transaction processing device 12 to be the destination.

[0140] Having determined the destination for transaction-related information, processor 31 controls communication interface 35 to transmit the transaction-related information (transaction information file) to the destination transaction processing device 12. This control causes the transaction information file to be transmitted via network 14 (ACT 80) and received by the destination transaction processing device 12.

[0141] When the checkout processing device 12 is in a standby state, as described above Figure 9 As shown, the standby screen DA0 ( Figure 5 Here, when receiving the transaction information file from the registration machine 11 ("NO" in ACT12 → "YES" in ACT33), the processor 61 of the checkout processing device 12 refers to the screen setting data of the setting file 631 and determines whether the screen setting of the "Return" button on the checkout screen (the payment method selection screen described later) is "Display / Not Display" ( Figure 6 ACT41).

[0142] For example, when processor 61 determines that the "Back" button is "not displayed" based on the screen setting data ("YES" in ACT 42), it causes touch panel 67 to display the payment selection screen (second checkout screen) that does not include the "Back" button. Figure 25 This figure shows an example of a payment selection screen DA10 that does not include a "Return" button. The payment selection screen DA10 includes a card list DA101 that displays the types of cards that can be used for checkout, for example, using the logos of card companies, a payment method selection key DA102, and a "Call a clerk" button DA103. Figure 25 The payment method selection key DA102 shown allows one to select one of "Cash," "Credit Card," and "Electronic Money" as a payment method for payment processing. Here, the processor 61 of the payment processing device 12 is in an operation waiting state for the payment selection screen DA10.

[0143] On the other hand, after transmitting the transaction information file to the transaction information file settlement processing device 12 , the processor 31 of the registration machine 11 displays a transaction information file transmission completion screen DB3 on the touch panel 38 (ACT 81 ). Figure 20 This figure shows an example of the delivery completion screen DB3. The delivery completion screen DB3 displays the number "1," indicating the transaction information file's delivery destination information DB31, indicating the transaction processing device 12's checkout machine ID, "Checkout 01," as the delivery destination. The delivery completion screen DB3 also includes a confirmation key DB32 and a "data recall" key DB33.

[0144] After confirming the display of the transmission completion screen DB3, the store clerk 21 instructs the customer 22 to check out using the checkout processing device 12 for cash register number N and presses the confirmation key DB32. Upon detecting the operation of the confirmation key DB32 ("YES" in ACT82), the processor 31 terminates the processing of the purchased goods for the customer 22 and returns to the standby mode. Specifically, the processor 31 displays the registration screen on the touch panel 38. Therefore, when the store clerk receives a checkout request for purchased goods from the next customer, they can begin the registration process for the purchased goods.

[0145] On the other hand, when the processor 31 detects the operation of the "data recall" key DB33 of the transmission completion screen DB3 ("NO" in ACT82), the processor 31 causes the touch panel 38 to display the checkout machine selection screen DB4 ( Figure 8A ACT84). Figure 211 is a diagram showing an example of the checkout machine selection screen DB4. In the checkout machine selection screen DB4, a list of the checkout processing devices 12 (checkout machines) DB41 to which the transaction information files are sent from the registration machine 11 is displayed. Figure 21 In the list display DB 41 of the checkout machine selection screen DB 4 shown, for example, two machines, “checkout machine 10 ” and “checkout machine 11 ”, are displayed.

[0146] Here, when an operation is performed to select any checkout machine (checkout processing device 12 ) from the list display DB 41 , the processor 31 displays the call confirmation guidance DB 42 . Figure 22 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen in which the call confirmation guidance DB 42 is displayed in the checkout machine selection screen DB 4 .

[0147] exist Figure 22 In the call confirmation guidance DB42 shown, by selecting "checkout machine 10" from the list display DB41, an "execute" key BD43 and a "cancel" key DB44 are displayed along with a message "recall the transaction of the checkout machine 10". Here, if the "cancel" key DB44 is selected ("NO" in ACT85), the processor 31 stops the data recall and returns to the Figure 20 The display state of the transmission completion screen DB3 is shown (ACT81).

[0148] On the other hand, if the "Execute" key BD43 is selected ("YES" in ACT 85), the processor 31 starts the transaction recall process (ACT 86) by specifying the transaction processing device 12 (checkout device) to be the target of the data recall. During the transaction recall process, for example, the transaction recall is notified to the selected transaction processing device 12 (here, the "checkout device 10"), transaction processing for the previously transmitted transaction information file is suspended, and the transaction information file is invalidated.

[0149] The checkout processing device 12 is in a state of waiting for operation on the payment selection screen DA10. Before operating the payment selection screen DA10, if it receives a notification of transaction recall from the registration machine 11 ("YES" of ACT44), it will display the data recalling screen DA10, so that the customer 22 cannot operate the payment selection screen DA10. Figure 26 1 is a diagram showing an example of the data recalling screen DA10. On the data recalling screen DA10, for example, a message DA103 "Data is being recalled. Please wait." is displayed.

[0150] Meanwhile, the processor 31 of the registration machine 11 causes the touch panel 38 to display the transaction recall process screen DB45 (ACT 87). When the processor 31 returns to the registration screen DB5 before the transaction information file is sent and ends the transaction recall process ("YES" in ACT 88), the processor 31 displays the process completion screen DB51 (ACT 89). Figure 24 1 is a diagram showing an example of the process completion screen DB 51. On the process completion screen DB 51, for example, a message "Unsettled transaction recalled" is displayed.

[0151] On the other hand, when the transaction recall process of the registration machine 11 is completed ("YES" in ACT63) and the registration machine 11 notifies the completion of the process, the transaction processing device 12 returns from the data recalling screen DA10 to the state displaying the standby screen DA0 (ACT11).

[0152] When the "Close" key DB52 of the processing completion screen DB51 is operated, the processor 31 ends the display of the processing completion screen DB51 and returns to the registration screen DB5, and enters the registration waiting state for the purchased goods in the same manner as above ( Figure 7 ACT 72). In this way, by recalling the data, the registration machine 11 can restart the product registration and register additional products.

[0153] The processor 61 of the checkout processing device 12 detects that there is no transaction recall notification from the register 11 ("NO" in ACT 44) and that the transaction Figure 25 When the payment method ("Cash," "Credit Card," or "Electronic Money") is selected on the payment selection screen DA10 ("YES" in ACT 46), the checkout process for the purchased goods indicated in the transaction information file is executed using the specified payment method (ACT 47). After the checkout process is completed ("YES" in ACT 48), the processor 61 returns to the state displaying the standby screen DA0 (ACT 11).

[0154] In addition, in the above description, the case where the "Return" button is judged to be "not displayed" according to the screen setting data in ACT41 is used as an example, but if the processor 61 judges that the "Return" button is "displayed" according to the screen setting data ("NO" in ACT42), the touch panel 67 displays the payment selection screen (first checkout screen) including the "Return" button. Figure 27 This figure shows an example of a payment selection screen DA11 including a "Back" button. The payment selection screen DA11 includes a card list DA111 showing, for example, the card company logos that list the available card types for payment, a payment method selection key DA112, a "Call a Staff" button DA113, and a "Back" button DA114.

[0155] It should be noted that even when the payment selection screen DA11 (first checkout screen) including the "Return" button DA114 is displayed, when a notification of transaction recall is received from the registration machine 11, the transaction recall processing is performed in the same manner as described above (ACT44~46), and detailed description is omitted.

[0156] When a touch operation on the "Call a Store Assistant" button DA113 of the payment selection screen DA11 is detected ("NO" in ACT50 → "YES" in ACT51), the processor 61 of the checkout processing device 12 displays a call a store assistant confirmation screen on the touch panel 67 (ACT52). Figure 28 This is a diagram showing an example of the store clerk call confirmation screen DA12.

[0157] When the touch operation on the "No" button DA123 of the call clerk confirmation screen DA12 is detected ("NO" in ACT53), the processor 61 returns to Figure 27 On the other hand, when a touch operation on the "Yes" button D122 of the call clerk confirmation screen is detected ("YES" in ACT24), the processor 61 displays the call clerk screen DA12 on the touch panel 67 (ACT54). Figure 29 This is a diagram showing an example of the screen DA12 during the call to store clerk process.

[0158] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the "Interrupt Call" button DA125 on the screen DA12 ("YES" in ACT 55), it enters a state where it waits for the employee code to be input. For example, the scanner 69 reads the employee barcode assigned to each employee and inputs the employee code (ACT 56). When the processor 61 confirms that the employee code read by the scanner 69 is legitimate, it causes the touch panel 67 to display the management menu screen DA8 (ACT 57). Figure 30 This is a diagram showing an example of the management menu screen DA8.

[0159] In the management menu screen DA8, buttons such as "Cash Processing", "Maintenance", and "POS Business" are provided. When the buttons are operated ("NO" in ACT58), the processor 61 executes various management processes (other processes) corresponding to the buttons (ACT59).

[0160] Here, in order to return to the product registration screen as the original screen, the "Call a clerk" button DA113 is operated. Therefore, the "Return to original screen" button DA81 of the management menu screen DA8 is touched. When the "Return to original screen" button DA81 is operated ("YES" in ACT29), the processor 61 returns to the display. Figure 31 The product registration screen DA3 is shown in the state (ACT 15). Since the transaction information file has been received from the registration machine 11, the processor 61 displays the purchased product information shown in the transaction information file on the product registration screen DA3. The product registration screen DA3 includes a "Call a clerk" button DA31, a "Change Screen" button DA32, and information about the purchased product, and therefore a "Checkout" button D33.

[0161] When the operation of selecting the "Checkout" button D33 is detected ("NO" in ACT16 → "NO" in ACT17 → "YES" in ACT32), the processor 61 determines the screen setting ("Display / Not Display") of the "Back" button on the checkout screen (payment method selection screen) based on the screen setting data in the same manner as described above. Figure 6 ACT41), the touch panel 67 displays the Figure 27 The payment selection screen DA11 (first checkout screen) does not contain the "Back" button shown or Figure 25 The payment selection screen DA10 (second checkout screen) with the "Return" button shown (ACT 43, ACT 49).

[0162] When the processor 61 of the checkout processing device 12 detects the Figure 25 When the payment method is selected on the payment selection screen DA10 ("YES" in ACT 46), the checkout process for the purchased goods indicated in the transaction information file is executed using the specified payment method (ACT 47). After the checkout process is completed ("YES" in ACT 48), the processor 61 returns to the state of displaying the standby screen DA0 (ACT 11).

[0163] Likewise, when the processor 61 of the checkout processing device 12 detects the Figure 27 When the payment method is selected on the payment selection screen DA11 ("YES" in ACT60), the checkout process for the purchased goods indicated in the transaction information file is executed using the specified payment method (ACT61). After the checkout process is completed ("YES" in ACT62), the processor 61 returns to the state of displaying the standby screen DA0 (ACT11).

[0164] It should be noted that when the operation of the "Screen Change" button 32 is detected in the product registration screen DA3 ("NO" in ACT16 → "YES" in ACT17), the processor 61 performs the processing of changing the screen setting data set in the setting file 631 in the same manner as above (ACT18~ACT21).

[0165] Thus, the checkout processing device 12 of this embodiment can begin operating as a semi-automatic checkout device when it receives a transaction information file (information related to a product transaction) from the register 11 while displaying the standby screen. In other words, the checkout processing device 12 can simply switch between semi-automatic and fully automated modes without having to switch between them.

[0166] Next, the operation of the transaction processing device 12 when the transaction system 10 is used in a fully self-service manner will be described.

[0167] For example, when the store is not crowded (when there are fewer customers 22 waiting to check out through the checkout processing device 12), the checkout system 10 operates in a fully self-service manner, and the registration of purchased goods and payment of purchased goods (checkout processing) are performed in the checkout processing device 12 through the operation of the customer 22. Figures 32 to 34 This is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the touch panel 67 of the transaction processing device 12 .

[0168] The processor 61 of the transaction processing device 12 in the standby state causes the touch panel 67 to display the standby screen DA0 ( Figure 5 ACT11). Figure 32 1 is a diagram showing an example of a standby screen DA0 in the transaction processing device 12. On the standby screen DA0, for example, a message "Welcome / Please touch the screen" is displayed to the customer 22 urging them to operate the touch panel 67.

[0169] When a touch operation is detected on the touch panel 67 ("YES" in ACT12), the processor 61 displays the product registration start screen DA1 on the touch panel 67 (ACT13). Figure 33 This figure shows an example of a product registration start screen in the checkout processing device 12. For example, the product registration start screen DA1 includes buttons for allowing the customer 22 to select a paid shopping bag, an eco-friendly bag, or a non-required bag before registering the purchased product, and a "Call a Store Employee" button DA11.

[0170] When the processor 61 detects a touch operation on the button for selecting a paid shopping bag, an eco-friendly bag, or a free bag ("YES" in ACT 14), the processor 61 displays the product registration screen DA3 on the touch panel 67 (ACT 15). Figure 34This figure shows an example of a product registration screen DA3 in the transaction processing device 12. The product registration screen DA3 includes a "Call a clerk" button DA31, a screen change button DA32, and a "Checkout" button DA33. The details of the product registration screen DA3 are the same as those described above, so their description will be omitted.

[0171] The processor 61, which displays the product registration screen DA3, waits for product registration. The customer 22 operates the scanner 69 to read the barcode attached to the purchased product. By reading the barcode with the scanner 69, the product code of the purchased product is input into the checkout processing device 12 (product registration). On the other hand, some products such as fresh food sometimes do not have barcodes. In the case where the purchased product is not accompanied by a barcode, the customer 22 operates the soft key corresponding to the purchased product, the so-called product key, from the soft key group of barcode-free products displayed in a part of the registration screen. When the product key is operated, the product code of the purchased product corresponding to the product key is input into the checkout processing device 12. In this way, when the product code of the purchased product is input into the checkout processing device 12, the processor 61 determines that there is a product registration.

[0172] If it is determined that a product has been registered ("YES" in ACT 16), processor 61 executes product sales data processing (ACT 31). Specifically, processor 61 searches the product file and obtains product data, such as the product name and unit price, for the product identified by the product code input via scanner 69 or touch panel 67. Processor 61 then stores the product sales data, including items such as the product code, product name, unit price, number of units sold, and sales amount, in transaction memory. Transaction memory is part of the volatile memory area within main memory 62.

[0173] The processor 61, which has completed the commodity sales data processing, waits for receipt of commodity registration regarding the next commodity to be purchased or for receipt of operation of the "Checkout" button D33.

[0174] If the customer 22 has other products to register, he / she also performs the above-mentioned registration operation for the purchased products (YES in ACT16). The processor 61 executes the product sales data processing (ACT31). And, when the registration operation of all purchased products is completed, the customer 22 presses the "checkout" button D33.

[0175] Note that, on the product registration screen DA3, the screen settings indicated by the screen setting data set in the settings file 631 can be changed (switched) by operating the screen change button DA32. When a touch operation on the screen change button DA32 is detected on the product registration screen DA3 ("NO" in ACT 16 → "YES" in ACT 17), the processor 61 refers to the screen setting data set in the settings file 631 and determines whether the "Return" button is displayed or not (the first checkout screen or the second checkout screen) (ACT 18).

[0176] For example, when it is determined that the screen setting data indicates that the "return" button is "displayed" (first checkout screen), the processor 61 displays the following: Figure 12 The screen shown changes to the confirmation screen. Figure 12 The screen change confirmation screen DA4 shown displays a message indicating the current status, "[Return] Displayed." Upon detecting a touch operation on the "Yes" button DA42 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 changes the settings indicated by the screen setting data to "No Display" (the second checkout screen) for the "Return" button (ACT 21). Note that upon detecting a touch operation on the "No" button DA43 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT 15).

[0177] On the other hand, in ACT 18, if it is determined that the screen setting data indicates the screen setting of "no display" (second checkout screen) of the "return" button, the processor 61 displays the following Figure 13 The screen shown changes to the confirmation screen. Figure 13 The screen change confirmation screen DA5 shown displays a message indicating the current status: "[Return] No display." Upon detecting a touch operation on the "Yes" button DA52 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 changes the settings indicated by the screen setting data to "Display" (first checkout screen) for the "Return" button (ACT 21). Note that upon detecting a touch operation on the "No" button DA53 on the screen change confirmation screen, the processor 61 returns to the display state of the product registration screen DA3 without changing the screen setting data (ACT 15).

[0178] It should be noted that after the screen setting is changed according to the touch operation of the screen change button DA32, when returning to the display state of the product registration screen DA3, the purchased product is displayed in the same registered state as when the screen change button DA32 was operated (it does not change even if the product registration screen is switched).

[0179] In addition, through Figure 34 When the checkout process is instructed by pressing the "Checkout" button D33 on the product registration screen DA3 shown ("YES" in ACT32), the processor 61 performs the checkout process based on the screen setting data ( Figure 6 ACT41), the touch panel 67 displays the Figure 27 The payment selection screen DA11 (first checkout screen) with the "Back" button shown, or the one that does not contain Figure 25 The payment selection screen DA10 (second checkout screen) with the "Return" button shown (ACT 43, ACT 49).

[0180] The touch panel 67 displays the Figure 25 In the state of the payment selection screen DA10 (second checkout screen) with the "Return" button shown (ACT43), the customer 22 presses the "Call a clerk" button DA103 of the payment selection screen DA10 in order to purchase additional products. When the processor 61 detects the touch operation on the "Call a clerk" button DA103 of the payment selection screen DA10 ("NO" in ACT44 → "NO" in ACT46), as shown in FIG. Figure 28 As shown, the store clerk call confirmation screen DA12 is displayed on the touch panel 67 (ACT 52). Thereafter, the processes of (ACT 52 to ACT 59) are executed as described above.

[0181] When the "return to original screen" button DA81 of the management menu screen DA8 displayed in ACT57 is touched ("YES" in ACT58), the processor 61 returns to the display process. Figure 34 The state of the product registration screen DA3 before the "Checkout" button D33 is pressed is shown (ACT 15). As a result, the customer 22 can purchase additional products on the product registration screen DA3.

[0182] Likewise, the touch panel 67 displays a Figure 27 In the state of the payment selection screen DA11 (first checkout screen) with the "Return" button shown (ACT 49), if the customer 22 wishes to return to the product registration screen DA3 to purchase additional products, he or she presses the "Call a Store Employee" button DA113 or the "Return" button DA114 on the payment selection screen DA10. Regarding the case where the "Call a Store Employee" button DA113 is pressed, the same procedures as above are performed (ACTs 51 to 59), and the description thereof is omitted.

[0183] When the operation of the "return" button DA114 of the payment selection screen DA11 is detected ("YES" of ACT50), the processor 61 returns to the display process. Figure 34 The state of the product registration screen DA3 before the "Checkout" button D33 is pressed is shown (ACT 15). As a result, the customer 22 can purchase additional products on the product registration screen DA3.

[0184] In this way, by operating the screen change button DA32 provided on the product registration screen DA3, the checkout processing device 12 can easily change the "display / hide" (first checkout screen / second checkout screen) setting of the "Back" button on the checkout screen (payment method selection screen) (screen setting change) using the screen setting data in the settings file 631. This allows the checkout screen (payment method selection screen) to be easily changed to a state suitable for semi-automatic or fully automated operation.

[0185] The information processing apparatus of the above-mentioned embodiment can be configured as follows.

[0186] (1) A checkout processing device comprising: a registration screen display unit that, when an input operation is accepted while a standby screen is displayed, displays a product registration screen for accepting registration of first information related to a product to be purchased;

[0187] a receiving unit that receives second information related to the transaction of the commodity from the register;

[0188] a checkout screen display unit that, upon receiving the second information, displays a checkout screen for performing a checkout process on the product according to the second information; and

[0189] The transaction processing unit performs transaction processing for the product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving unit.

[0190] (2) The checkout processing device according to (1), wherein the checkout screen display unit switches between a first checkout screen including a button for receiving an instruction to switch to the display of the product registration screen and a second checkout screen not including the button, according to a pre-set screen setting.

[0191] (3) A checkout processing device according to (2), wherein the registration screen display unit displays a screen change button for receiving a checkout screen switching instruction on the product registration screen, and the checkout screen display unit switches between the first checkout screen and the second checkout screen according to the screen setting set by operating the screen change button.

[0192] (4) The checkout processing device according to (3), wherein the registration screen display unit displays the first information received on the product registration screen, and displays the display state of the first information in the form of a homepage according to the operation of the screen change button.

[0193] (5) a program for causing a computer to function as the following units: a registration screen display unit for displaying a product registration screen for accepting registration of first information related to a product to be purchased when an input operation is accepted during display of a standby screen;

[0194] a receiving unit that receives second information related to the transaction of the commodity from the register;

[0195] a checkout screen display unit that, upon receiving the second information, displays a checkout screen for performing a checkout process on the product according to the second information; and

[0196] The transaction processing unit performs transaction processing for the product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving unit.

[0197] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments may be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also intended to be included in the invention set forth in the claims and their equivalents.

[0198] Furthermore, the processing described in the above embodiments can be written to a storage medium such as a magnetic disk (floppy disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, etc.), or a semiconductor memory as a program executable by a computer and provided to various devices. Alternatively, the program can be transmitted via a communication medium and provided to various devices. The computer reads the program recorded on the storage medium or receives the program via the communication medium, and executes the above processing by being controlled by the program.

Claims

1. A checkout processing device comprising: a registration screen display unit for displaying a product registration screen for accepting registration of first information related to a product to be purchased, when an input operation is accepted while the standby screen is displayed; a receiving unit for receiving second information related to the commodity transaction from the registration machine; a checkout screen display unit that, upon receiving the second information, displays a checkout screen for performing a checkout process for the product according to the second information; as well as The transaction processing unit performs transaction processing for the product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving unit.

2. The checkout processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The checkout screen display unit switches between a first checkout screen including a button for receiving an instruction to switch display to the product registration screen and a second checkout screen not including the button, based on a preset screen setting.

3. The checkout processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The registration screen display unit displays a screen change button on the product registration screen for receiving an instruction to switch to a checkout screen. The checkout screen display unit switches between the first checkout screen and the second checkout screen based on the screen setting set by operating the screen change button.

4. The checkout processing device according to claim 3, wherein: The registration screen display unit displays the first information received on the product registration screen, and displays the first information in a homepage format in response to an operation of the screen change button.

5. A program storage medium storing a program that enables a computer to implement the following functions: a registration screen display function for displaying a product registration screen for accepting registration of first information related to a product to be purchased, when an input operation is accepted while the standby screen is displayed; A receiving function for receiving second information related to the commodity transaction from the registration machine; a checkout screen display function for displaying a checkout screen for checking out the product according to the second information upon receiving the second information; as well as The checkout processing function performs checkout processing for the product based on the first information received through the product registration screen or the second information received by the receiving function.

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