Transaction processing device and storage medium

Abstract

The invention discloses a transaction processing apparatus and a storage medium capable of checking whether a coupon can be applied to a transaction. The transaction processing apparatus includes a determination unit and an application unit. The determination unit determines whether or not the transaction satisfies an amount condition based on the amount of the transaction. When the transaction satisfies the amount condition, the application unit applies the coupon identified by the input coupon information to the transaction.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from Japanese patent application No. JP2024-048299, filed on Mar. 25, 2024, and cites the contents of the aforementioned application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

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

[0003] As a coupon that can be applied to a transaction, there is a discount coupon for discounting the subtotal amount. When a store clerk reads the code symbol of the discount coupon with a scanner, a POS (Point of Sales) terminal applies the discount coupon to the transaction.

[0004] Here, the store side may wish to apply the discount coupon to the transaction and attach conditions. In this case, the clerk must confirm whether to meet the conditions before using a scanner to read the code symbol of the discount coupon, thereby increasing the clerk's burden. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide a transaction processing device and a storage medium, which are capable of checking whether a coupon can be applied to a transaction.

[0006] To address the above issues, a transaction processing device in an embodiment includes a determination unit and an application unit. The determination unit determines whether a transaction satisfies a monetary condition based on the transaction amount. The application unit applies a coupon identified by input coupon information to the transaction if the transaction satisfies the monetary condition.

[0007] According to the transaction processing device described above, it is possible to provide a transaction processing device capable of checking whether a coupon can be used for a transaction.

[0008] In the transaction processing device described above, the determination unit determines whether the coupon is a designated coupon, and the application unit applies the coupon to the transaction if the coupon is the designated coupon and the transaction satisfies the amount condition.

[0009] According to the transaction processing device described above, it is possible to check whether a designated coupon can be applied.

[0010] In the transaction processing device described above, the application unit applies the coupon to the transaction when the coupon is a coupon different from the designated coupon.

[0011] According to the transaction processing device described above, it is possible to check whether a designated coupon can be used, and to apply a coupon different from the designated coupon.

[0012] In the transaction processing device described above, the amount condition includes a condition that an amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount of the coupon from the transaction amount is higher than a set amount.

[0013] According to the above-mentioned transaction processing device, it is possible to determine whether the transaction satisfies the amount condition using the set amount.

[0014] In the above-mentioned transaction processing device, the designated coupon is a coupon issued in electronic form.

[0015] According to the transaction processing apparatus described above, it is possible to utilize a designated coupon issued in electronic form.

[0016] In the above-mentioned transaction processing device, the judgment unit further determines whether the same coupon information is entered in a transaction. If the same coupon information is entered, a message indicating that the same coupon information is entered is displayed on the display device. If the same coupon information is not entered, it further determines whether the amount condition is met.

[0017] According to the transaction processing device described above, it is possible to prohibit the use of the same coupon in one transaction.

[0018] In the above-mentioned transaction processing device, the judgment unit, when determining that the coupon is a designated coupon, determines whether the amount obtained by deducting the discount amount of the designated coupon specified by the coupon information from the subtotal amount obtained by operating the subtotal button is higher than the set amount. If it is higher than the set amount, it is determined that the transaction meets the amount condition. If it is not higher than the set amount, a message indicating that the transaction does not meet the amount condition is displayed on the display device.

[0019] According to the transaction processing device described above, the amount condition of the designated coupon can be determined in conjunction with the operation of the subtotal button, and when the amount condition is not satisfied, the fact that the amount condition is not satisfied can be notified.

[0020] In the above-mentioned transaction processing device, the judgment unit displays the message on the display device and displays a selection button for selecting whether to request the use of a specified coupon that does not meet the amount condition. The transaction processing device also includes: an additional registration restriction unit, which limits the registration of additional goods to once when the request for use is selected.

[0021] According to the transaction processing device, if the amount requirement of the designated coupon is not met, the number of times a customer who requests to use the designated coupon can register additional products is limited to one. This prevents customers from being delayed while waiting to check out because they are trying to register additional products using the designated coupon.

[0022] In the above-mentioned transaction processing device, the additional registration restriction unit, after registering the additional goods, applies the designated coupon when the subtotal button is operated and the judgment unit determines that the amount condition is met; if it is determined that the amount condition is not met, a message indicating that the amount condition is not met is displayed on the display device, and all the additionally registered goods are cancelled, and the checkout processing is performed on the goods other than the additionally registered goods.

[0023] According to the transaction processing device described above, if the amount requirement of a designated coupon is not met, the additional product registration can be canceled and the checkout process can be forcibly executed if the additional product registration does not meet the amount requirement. This can prevent customers from making unnecessary purchases and prevent customers from being delayed in checking out.

[0024] A storage medium according to another aspect of the present invention stores a program that enables a computer to perform the following functions: a determination function for determining whether a transaction satisfies an amount condition based on the amount of the transaction; and an application function for applying a coupon identified by the input coupon information to the transaction if the transaction satisfies the amount condition.

[0025] According to the above-described storage medium, it is possible to provide a computer with a function capable of checking whether a coupon can be applied to a transaction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a POS terminal according to the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of transaction processing performed by the processing circuit of the POS terminal according to the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of coupon processing performed by the processing circuit of the POS terminal according to the embodiment.

[0029] Description of Reference Numerals

[0030] 1POS terminal 10processing circuit 11main memory

[0031] 12 auxiliary storage device 13 change machine interface 14 communication interface

[0032] 15 Scanner 16 Input device 17-1 First display device 17-2 Second display device

[0033] 18 Printing equipment 19 Reader 20 Photographic equipment

[0034] 101 Registration Department 102 Detection Department 103 Checkout Department

[0035] 104 Acquisition unit 105 Determination unit 106 Application unit

[0036] 107 Display unit 121 sets the amount storage area DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Below, several embodiments will be described using the accompanying drawings. In addition, the scales of the various parts of the accompanying drawings used in the description of the following embodiments may be appropriately changed. In addition, for ease of description, the various drawings used in the description of the following embodiments may have structures omitted.

[0038] [Example]

[0039] The transaction processing device that handles transactions will be explained using a POS terminal as an example. A transaction is the payment of fees by a customer to a store associated with the sale of goods in a store. From the store's perspective, a transaction refers to the sale of goods. From the customer's perspective, a transaction refers to the purchase of goods. Goods include not only physical objects but also objects other than tangible items, such as services and tickets. Unless otherwise specified, the term "transaction" refers to the same transaction. "Customer" refers to the user.

[0040] Coupons are used to offer discounts to customers. Discounts are benefits provided to customers in transactions. Coupons can be printed on paper or distributed electronically. Coupons printed on paper or distributed electronically are also referred to as printed coupons. Coupons distributed electronically are also referred to as electronic coupons. Electronic coupons are coupons that can be displayed as images on the customer's device. For example, a device with a display function, such as a smartphone or tablet, is not limited to this.

[0041] A coupon is described as a coupon that subtracts the coupon's discount amount from the subtotal amount before the coupon is applied to a transaction. The coupon's discount amount can be either the amount specified in the coupon or an amount corresponding to the specified ratio. Applying a coupon to a transaction involves updating the subtotal by subtracting the coupon's discount amount from the subtotal amount before the coupon is applied. The updated subtotal is the amount obtained by subtracting the coupon's discount amount from the subtotal amount before the coupon is applied. A transaction can apply not just one coupon but multiple coupons. "Apply" means "use."

[0042] The subtotal amount is the total amount of the transaction after all the goods subject to the transaction are registered. The subtotal amount can be an amount that includes or excludes consumption tax. The total amount is the amount calculated based on the total product price of all registered goods in the transaction. Registered goods refer to goods that are registered as the subject of the transaction before the transaction is settled. The product price of registered goods can be either inclusive of or exclusive of consumption tax. The total amount can be either inclusive of or exclusive of consumption tax. In addition, the discount set by the store may vary depending on the product. For example, for goods such as groceries, the discount amount set by the store may vary depending on the time period. Therefore, the total amount can be the amount obtained by deducting the discount amount set by the store from the total product price of all registered goods in the transaction.

[0043] The subtotal amount varies depending on whether a coupon has been applied to the transaction. If no coupon has been applied to the transaction, the subtotal amount is the total amount. If one or more coupons have been applied to the transaction, the subtotal amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount of one or more coupons from the total amount. The subtotal amount is an example of a transaction amount, which is the amount related to the transaction. Furthermore, coupons other than the coupon used to deduct the coupon discount amount from the subtotal amount may also be applied to the transaction. For example, if a coupon for a discount on a specific product has been applied to the transaction, the subtotal amount reflects the discount amount of the coupon.

[0044] (Structure example)

[0045] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the POS terminal 1 .

[0046] The POS terminal 1 is a device that processes transactions in a store. The POS terminal 1 is an example of a transaction processing device that processes transactions.

[0047] The POS terminal 1 includes a processing circuit 10, a main memory 11, an auxiliary storage device 12, a change dispenser interface 13, a communication interface 14, a scanner 15, an input device 16, a first display device 17-1, a second display device 17-2, a printing device 18, a reader 19, and a photographic device 20. The processing circuit 10, the main memory 11, the auxiliary storage device 12, the change dispenser interface 13, the communication interface 14, the scanner 15, the input device 16, the first display device 17-1, the second display device 17-2, the printing device 18, the reader 19, and the photographic device 20 are connected to each other so as to input and output signals. Figure 1 In the , the interface is recorded as "I / F".

[0048] The processing circuit 10 is equivalent to the core part of the POS terminal 1. The processing circuit 10 is an element of the computer that constitutes the POS terminal 1. The processing circuit 10 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes based on multiple functions. For example, the circuit can be a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. The processing circuit 10 loads a program stored in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program can be a program that causes the processing circuit 10 to perform various processes. The processing circuit 10 can perform various processes by executing the program loaded in the memory 11.

[0049] The main memory 11 includes elements equivalent to the main storage portion of the POS terminal 1. The main memory 11 is an element of the computer that constitutes the POS terminal 1. The main memory 11 includes a non-volatile storage area and a volatile storage area. The main memory 11 stores an operating system or programs in the non-volatile storage area. The main memory 11 uses the volatile storage area as a work area where the processing circuit 10 can rewrite data as needed. For example, the main memory 11 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile storage area. For example, the main memory 11 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile storage area. The main memory 11 is an example of a storage unit.

[0050] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the POS terminal 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 includes one or more storage devices. Examples of storage devices include, but are not limited to, EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the aforementioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 10 when executing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 10. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an example of a storage unit.

[0051] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a set amount storage area 121. This area stores a set amount. The set amount is a numerical value used to determine whether a transaction satisfies a monetary condition. The monetary condition is defined based on the subtotal amount, the discount amount of the coupon identified by the coupon code input into the POS terminal 1, and the set amount.

[0052] A coupon code is information that uniquely identifies a coupon. A coupon code is an example of coupon information that uniquely identifies a coupon. Hereinafter, a coupon code input into the POS terminal 1 is also referred to as an input coupon code. A coupon identified by an input coupon code is also referred to as an input coupon.

[0053] For example, the amount condition is a condition that the amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount of the input coupon from the subtotal amount is greater than the set amount. The set amount can be set as appropriate.

[0054] The change dispenser interface 13 exchanges data signals with the automatic change dispenser. For example, the change dispenser interface 13 receives deposited amount data from the automatic change dispenser. The change dispenser interface 13 outputs the change amount data to the automatic change dispenser. The automatic change dispenser then dispenses banknotes or coins corresponding to the change amount based on the change amount data.

[0055] The communication interface 14 includes various interfaces for connecting the POS terminal 1 to other devices in a communicable manner via a network according to a predetermined communication protocol.

[0056] The scanner 15 is a device for reading various code symbols. The scanner 15 is an example of a reading unit.

[0057] For example, the code symbol is a barcode symbol or a QR code symbol. The code symbol may be a code symbol of a product that stores a product code. The product code is information that can uniquely identify the product. The code symbol of a product is an image attached to the product. The code symbol may be a code symbol of a member that stores a member code. The member code is information that can uniquely identify a customer as a member. The member's code symbol may be an image attached to a member card or an image displayed on a customer's terminal. The code symbol may be a code symbol of a coupon that stores a coupon code. In the case where the coupon is a printed coupon, the code symbol of the printed coupon is an image attached to the printed coupon. In the case where the coupon is an electronic coupon, the code symbol of the electronic coupon is an image that can be displayed on a customer's terminal. The code symbol may be a code symbol used for code settlement.

[0058] The input device 16 is a device that can input information or instructions to the POS terminal 1. For example, the input device 16 may include a keyboard. The input device 16 may form a touch screen together with the first display device 17-1. The input device 16 is an example of an input unit.

[0059] The first display device 17-1 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 10. The first display device 17-1 is primarily a display device for store employees, used for visual confirmation. For example, the first display device 17-1 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (electroluminescence) display. The first display device 17-1 is an example of a display unit.

[0060] The second display device 17-2 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 10. The second display device 17-2 is a customer display device primarily used for visual confirmation by customers. For example, the second display device 17-2 is a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The second display device 17-2 is an example of a display unit.

[0061] The printing device 18 is a device for distributing printed materials by printing on a medium. The medium is, for example, paper. For example, the printing device 18 is a thermal printer, an inkjet printer, etc. The printing device 18 is an example of a printing unit.

[0062] Reader 19 is a device that reads card data stored on a card medium. Reader 19 is a contact-type reader that reads card data stored on the magnetic stripe of the card medium. Reader 19 may also include a contactless reader that reads card data stored on an IC (Integrated Circuit) tag on the card medium. An IC tag includes an IC chip and an antenna.

[0063] The imaging device 20 is a device capable of imaging under the control of the processing circuit 10. For example, the imaging device 20 is a camera. The imaging device 20 is an example of a reading unit.

[0064] The hardware configuration of the POS terminal 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. The POS terminal 1 can appropriately omit or modify the above-described components, and can also add new components.

[0065] Each functional unit implemented by the processing circuit 10 will be described.

[0066] The processing circuit 10 includes a registration unit 101, a detection unit 102, a transaction unit 103, an acquisition unit 104, a determination unit 105, an application unit 106, and a display unit 107. The functional units implemented by the processing circuit 10 can also be referred to as units or functions. Each functional unit implemented by the processing circuit 10 is implemented by a control unit including the processing circuit 10 and the main memory 11.

[0067] The registration unit 101 processes the registration of goods. Goods registration is the registration of goods to be traded before the transaction is settled. Hereinafter, the registration of goods is also referred to as goods registration.

[0068] The detection unit 102 detects information or instructions input via the input device 16 .

[0069] The settlement unit 103 processes the settlement of transactions.

[0070] The acquisition unit 104 acquires the input coupon code.

[0071] The determination unit 105 determines whether the input coupon identified by the input coupon code is applied to the transaction.

[0072] The application unit 106 applies the input coupon to the transaction. The application unit 108 updates the subtotal amount each time the input coupon is applied to the transaction.

[0073] The display unit 107 displays an image on at least one of the first display device 17 - 1 and the second display device 17 - 2 .

[0074] (Action Example)

[0075] The processing by the POS terminal 1 will be described.

[0076] The processing steps described below are merely examples, and each process can be modified as much as possible. In addition, the processing steps described below can be appropriately omitted, replaced, or added according to the embodiment.

[0077] Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of transaction processing by the processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 .

[0078] Transaction processing is processing for completing a transaction. Here, it is assumed that a store clerk uses the POS terminal 1 to perform operations for registering goods and paying.

[0079] The processing circuit 10 processes product registration (ACT 1). ACT 1 may be a process performed by the registration unit 101. For example, in ACT 1, the processing circuit 10 obtains the product code of the transaction product based on the code symbol of the transaction product read by the scanner 15. The processing circuit 10 may obtain the product code of the transaction product based on the code symbol of the transaction product read by the imaging device 20. The processing circuit 10 may obtain the product code of the transaction product based on the selection of the transaction product using the input device 16. The processing circuit 10 performs product registration based on the obtained product code.

[0080] For example, processing a product registration involves updating registration data. The registration data can include product information for each registered product. This product information can include all or part of the product code, product name, price, quantity, and product price. The product code is as described above. The product name is the name of the product. The price is the unit price for each product. The quantity is the number of products identified by the product code. The product price is the amount calculated by multiplying the price by the quantity. The registered product information may also include information other than this.

[0081] Registration data can be stored in the main memory 11 or auxiliary storage device 12 of the POS terminal 1, or in a transaction management server that manages each transaction. Updating registration data includes adding registered product information, increasing the quantity included in registered product information, decreasing the quantity included in registered product information, and deleting registered product information.

[0082] When the registration data is stored in the POS terminal 1, the processing circuit 10 refers to the product master data and updates the registration data based on the obtained product code. The product master data includes product information corresponding to each product sold in the store. The product information can include the product code, product name, and price. The product information can also include information other than this information. When the registration data is stored in the transaction management server, the processing circuit 10 outputs a registration request including the product code to the transaction management server. The registration request is a request for the transaction management server to process the product registration. The transaction management server can refer to the product master data and update the registration data based on the product code included in the registration request. Outputting the registration request including the product code to the transaction management server is an example of processing product registration.

[0083] The processing circuit 10 detects a checkout instruction (ACT2) input via the input device 16 based on the operation of the subtotal button. ACT2 may be a process based on the detection unit 102. The checkout instruction is an instruction that causes the POS terminal 1 to request a subtotal amount after the registration of all the goods subject to the transaction is completed in order to proceed with the checkout. The checkout instruction may be an instruction input based on the operation of the subtotal button on the input device 16. The subtotal button is a button that is operated after the registration of all the goods subject to the transaction is completed. After the registration of all the goods subject to the transaction is completed using the POS terminal 1, the clerk uses the input device 16 and operates the subtotal button. In addition, it is possible to register additional goods after operating the subtotal button. After the additional goods are registered, the POS terminal 1 calculates the subtotal amount again by operating the subtotal button.

[0084] Processing circuit 10 executes coupon processing (ACT 3). Coupon processing includes determining whether to apply the input coupon to the transaction and is used to apply the input coupon to the transaction. Coupon processing occurs after the POS terminal 1 completes registration of all items included in the transaction and before the transaction is settled. Coupon processing in ACT 3 will be described later.

[0085] The processing circuit 10 processes the transaction based on the checkout amount (ACT 4). ACT 4 may be performed by the checkout unit 103. The checkout amount is the amount used to complete the transaction. The checkout amount is equivalent to the amount paid by the customer. If the subtotal includes consumption tax, the checkout amount is equivalent to the subtotal. If the subtotal does not include consumption tax, the checkout amount is the amount obtained by adding consumption tax to the subtotal. Checkout is the payment for the transaction. Checkout means settlement. Completion of checkout by the POS terminal 1 signifies the completion of the transaction.

[0086] Payment methods used to settle transactions include offline and online settlement. Offline settlement does not require the POS terminal 1 to coordinate with other devices via the network. For example, offline settlement involves payment with cash, gift certificates, etc. Online settlement involves payment performed by the POS terminal 1 via the network in coordination with other devices. Examples of online settlement include credit card settlement, electronic money settlement, debit card settlement, and barcode settlement.

[0087] The following describes the coupon processing in ACT 3.

[0088] Figure 3 This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of coupon processing performed by the processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 .

[0089] Processing circuit 10 performs coupon processing for each input coupon code. To use a coupon in a transaction, a customer presents the coupon to a store clerk. The clerk uses a scanner 15 or a camera 20 to read the coupon's code symbol. The coupon's code symbol can be either a printed coupon or an electronic coupon.

[0090] The processing circuit 10 obtains the input coupon code (ACT 31). ACT 31 may be performed by the obtaining unit 104. For example, in ACT 31, the processing circuit 10 may obtain the input coupon code input into the POS terminal 1 by reading the coupon code symbol with the scanner 15. The processing circuit 10 obtains the input coupon code input into the POS terminal 1 by reading the coupon code symbol with the imaging device 20.

[0091] Based on the input coupon code, the processing circuit 10 determines whether the same coupon code has already been entered into the POS terminal 1 in a transaction before the input coupon code is entered into the POS terminal 1 (ACT 32). ACT 32 may be a process based on the determination unit 105. That is, the determination unit determines whether the same coupon code (coupon information) has already been entered in a transaction. If the determination unit determines that the same coupon information has been entered, the first display device 17-1 and the second display device 17-2 display a message indicating that the same coupon information has been entered. This display may be performed on either display device. If the same coupon information has not been entered, a further determination is made as to whether the amount condition is satisfied. The details are as follows. The same coupon code refers to another input coupon code that can identify a coupon that is the same as the input coupon. The phrase "before the input coupon code is entered into the POS terminal 1" may be understood as before obtaining the input coupon code. The phrase "before the input coupon code is entered into the POS terminal 1" may be understood as before determining whether the input coupon code is applied to the transaction. The expression "the same coupon code has been input into the POS terminal 1 in the transaction" can be understood as whether or not another input coupon identified by the same coupon code is applied to the transaction has been determined.

[0092] In ACT 32, for example, the processing circuit 10 causes the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12 to store a list of input coupon codes that have been entered in the transaction. The processing circuit 10 can refer to the list of input coupon codes to determine whether the same coupon code has been entered into the POS terminal 1 in a transaction before the input coupon code is entered into the POS terminal 1. If the obtained input coupon code is included in the list, the processing circuit 10 determines that the same coupon code has been entered into the POS terminal 1 in the transaction. If the obtained input coupon code is not included in the list, the processing circuit 10 determines that the same coupon code has not been entered into the POS terminal 1 in the transaction.

[0093] If the same coupon code has already been entered into the POS terminal 1 during a transaction (ACT 32, YES), the processing circuit 10 determines that the input coupon identified by the input coupon code is not applicable to the transaction. In this case, the process transitions from ACT 32 to ACT 36. For example, if a customer presents multiple identical coupons to a store clerk during the same transaction, the processing circuit 10 determines that the same coupon code has already been entered into the POS terminal 1 during the transaction.

[0094] If the same coupon code was not entered into the POS terminal 1 during the transaction (ACT 32, No), the process transitions from ACT 32 to ACT 33. For example, if the customer presents a coupon to the clerk that was not presented to the clerk during the transaction, the processing circuit 10 determines that the same coupon code was not entered into the POS terminal 1 during the transaction.

[0095] As described above, the POS terminal 1 can determine whether the same coupon code has already been input into the POS terminal 1 in a transaction before inputting the input coupon code into the POS terminal 1. If the same coupon code has already been input into the POS terminal 1, the POS terminal 1 can determine not to apply the input coupon to the transaction.

[0096] If a store wishes to limit the number of identical coupons that can be used in a transaction, the POS terminal 1 can check whether the same coupon code has already been entered into the POS terminal 1. This reduces the burden on store employees by eliminating the need to verify that the same coupon has not been used multiple times in a transaction.

[0097] The processing circuit 10 determines whether the input coupon is a designated coupon (ACT 33). ACT 33 may be a process performed by the determination unit 105. A designated coupon is a coupon for which a monetary condition is imposed on the coupon's application to a transaction. For example, the designated coupon may be an electronic coupon, but this is not the only option. While store employees can reclaim printed coupons that have been applied to a transaction, they cannot reclaim electronic coupons that have been applied to a transaction. Customers may use electronic coupons multiple times per transaction. Therefore, electronic coupons are preferably coupons for which a monetary condition is imposed on the coupon's application to a transaction.

[0098] For example, in ACT 33, the processing circuit 10 determines whether the input coupon code includes a code indicating a designated coupon. If the input coupon code includes a code indicating a designated coupon, the processing circuit 10 determines that the input coupon is the designated coupon. If the input coupon code does not include a code indicating a designated coupon, the processing circuit 10 determines that the input coupon is a coupon different from the designated coupon.

[0099] If the input coupon is a designated coupon (ACT 33, YES), the process transitions from ACT 33 to ACT 34. If the input coupon is a different coupon from the designated coupon (ACT 32, NO), the processing circuit 10 determines that the input coupon identified by the input coupon code is to be applied to the transaction. In this case, the process transitions from ACT 33 to ACT 35.

[0100] As described above, the POS terminal 1 can determine whether the input coupon is a designated coupon.

[0101] If the store wants to impose a monetary condition on the use of a designated coupon for a transaction, the POS terminal 1 can check whether the input coupon is the designated coupon. This reduces the store clerk's workload by eliminating the need to verify whether the presented coupon is the designated coupon.

[0102] The processing circuit 10 determines whether the transaction meets the amount condition based on the subtotal amount (ACT 34). ACT 34 may be a process performed by the determination unit 105. The subtotal amount used to determine whether the transaction meets the amount condition is the subtotal amount at the current time. The subtotal amount at the current time refers to the subtotal amount at the time the coupon code is entered as the input coupon code into the POS terminal 1. The subtotal amount at the current time also includes the subtotal amount at the time the processing circuit 10 obtains the input coupon code. Specifically, if the determination unit determines that the coupon is a designated coupon, it calculates the amount by subtracting the discount amount for the designated coupon specified in the coupon information from the subtotal amount calculated by operating the subtotal button. It then determines whether the calculated amount exceeds the set amount. If it exceeds the set amount, the transaction is determined to meet the amount condition. If it does not exceed the set amount, a message indicating that the transaction does not meet the amount condition is displayed on the first display device 17-1 and the second display device 17-2. This display can be performed on either display device. The details are as follows.

[0103] The processing circuit 10 specifies the discount amount of the input coupon based on the code included in the input coupon code. If the amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount of the input coupon from the subtotal exceeds the set amount, the processing circuit 10 determines that the transaction meets the amount condition. If the amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount of the input coupon from the subtotal does not exceed the set amount, the processing circuit 10 determines that the transaction does not meet the amount condition. This prevents the POS terminal 1 from applying the input coupon to the transaction, causing the subtotal amount to fall below the set amount.

[0104] Alternatively, if the monetary condition is not met, a message may be displayed on the display device, along with a selection button for selecting whether to request the use of a designated coupon that does not meet the monetary condition. If the customer selects to request the use of the designated coupon (in response to an input requesting the use of the designated coupon), additional product registration is performed. As described above, additional product registration can also be performed after pressing the subtotal button. However, if a customer requesting the use of a designated coupon repeatedly presses the subtotal button and registers additional products during a transaction, the checkout process may become stalled. Therefore, after pressing the subtotal button, if an instruction is input requesting the use of a designated coupon that does not meet the use condition, information indicating a coupon use request (e.g., a request flag of "1") is stored. After additional product registration, the determination unit determines whether the monetary condition is met by pressing the subtotal button. If the monetary condition is met, the designated coupon is applied. If the monetary condition is not met, the request flag is checked, and if information indicating a coupon use request is stored as "1," a message indicating that the monetary condition is not met is displayed on the display device, and all additionally registered products are canceled. Then, the checkout process is performed for goods other than the additionally registered goods (additional registration restriction unit). That is, there may be an additional registration restriction unit that limits the number of additional registrations of goods made by customers who request to use coupons to once. Accordingly, repeated additional registrations of goods for the purpose of using coupons are prevented, and customers who want to check out are prevented from being stranded. In the absence of information indicating a request for coupon use, the additional registration restriction unit does not restrict the additional registration of goods. It can contribute to increasing the sales of store goods. Goods that are additionally registered for the purpose of using designated coupons are likely to be goods that are unnecessary for customers. By forcibly canceling the goods that have been additionally registered, it is possible to prevent customers from making unnecessary purchases. By using coupons to purchase goods that they really need in their next shopping, it is beneficial for customers to avoid unnecessary shopping, and it is also beneficial for the store to expect an increase in sales based on the customer's purchase of goods in an amount that can use the designated coupon in their next shopping.

[0105] If the transaction satisfies the monetary condition (ACT 34, YES), the processing circuit 10 determines that the input coupon should be applied to the transaction. In this case, the process transitions from ACT 34 to ACT 35. If the transaction does not satisfy the monetary condition (ACT 34, NO), the processing circuit 10 determines that the input coupon should not be applied to the transaction. The process transitions from ACT 34 to ACT 36.

[0106] As described above, the POS terminal 1 can determine whether a transaction satisfies the amount condition.

[0107] If a store wishes to impose a monetary condition on a transaction using a coupon, the POS terminal 1 can check whether the transaction meets the monetary condition. This reduces the burden on store employees because they no longer need to check whether the transaction meets the monetary condition each time a coupon is presented.

[0108] The processing circuit 10 applies the input coupon to the transaction (ACT 35). ACT 35 may be a process performed by the application unit 108. For example, in ACT 35, the processing circuit 10 updates the subtotal by subtracting the discount amount of the input coupon from the subtotal before the input coupon was applied to the transaction. The subtotal before the input coupon was applied to the transaction is equivalent to the subtotal at the current time.

[0109] In the event that the input coupon is a different coupon than the specified coupon, the processing circuitry 10 is capable of applying the input coupon to the transaction.

[0110] In this way, the POS terminal 1 can apply the input coupon to the transaction without having to perform a determination as to whether the transaction satisfies the amount condition. Therefore, even if the transaction does not satisfy the amount condition, the input coupon is applied to the transaction.

[0111] If the transaction meets the amount condition, the processing circuit 10 can apply the input coupon to the transaction. In a typical example, if the input coupon is a designated coupon and the transaction meets the amount condition, the processing circuit 10 can apply the input coupon to the transaction.

[0112] In this way, if the input coupon is a designated coupon, the POS terminal 1 can check whether the coupon is applicable to the transaction based on the amount condition. This reduces the store clerk's burden by eliminating the need to confirm whether the presented coupon is a designated coupon and to check whether the coupon is applicable to the transaction based on the amount condition.

[0113] The processing circuit 10 displays an error image on at least one of the first display device 17-1 and the second display device 17-2 (ACT 36). ACT 36 may be a process performed by the display unit 107. The error image is an image indicating that the input coupon cannot be applied to the transaction. The error image may include the reason why the input coupon corresponding to the determination result of the processing circuit 10 cannot be applied to the transaction.

[0114] Coupon processing is not limited to the above.

[0115] The processing circuit 10 may omit the processing of ACT 32. In this example, the customer can use multiple identical coupons in a transaction.

[0116] The processing circuit 10 may execute the coupon processing when the input coupon is a designated coupon instead of executing the coupon processing before the processing of ACT 33. In this example, the customer can use a plurality of the same coupons different from the designated coupon in the transaction.

[0117] The processing circuit 10 may omit the processing of ACT 33. In this example, regardless of the type of the input coupon, an amount condition for applying the input coupon to the transaction is added to the input coupon.

[0118] A specific example will be described.

[0119] Assume that a customer is trading item A and item B. The price of item A is 200 yen. The price of item B is 300 yen. At this point in time, the subtotal is 500 yen. The set amount is 200 yen. Assume that the customer presents three coupons to the store clerk as follows.

[0120] First, a customer presents a store clerk with an electronic coupon offering a 200 yen discount. The electronic coupon is a designated coupon. The amount (300 yen) obtained by subtracting the electronic coupon discount amount (200 yen) from the current subtotal (500 yen) is greater than the set amount (200 yen). Therefore, processing circuit 10 determines that the transaction meets the amount condition and applies the electronic coupon to the transaction. Processing circuit 10 updates the subtotal to 300 yen by subtracting the electronic coupon discount amount (200 yen) from the subtotal (500 yen) before the electronic coupon was applied. At this point in time, the subtotal is 300 yen.

[0121] Next, the customer presents the store clerk with an electronic coupon offering a 150 yen discount. The electronic coupon is a designated coupon. The amount calculated by subtracting the electronic coupon's discount amount (150 yen) from the current subtotal (300 yen) is less than the set amount (200 yen). Therefore, processing circuit 10 determines that the transaction does not meet the amount requirement and does not apply the electronic coupon to the transaction. At this point in time, the subtotal is 300 yen.

[0122] Finally, the customer presents the store clerk with a printed coupon offering a 200 yen discount. The printed coupon is a different coupon from the designated coupon. There is no amount condition for applying the printed coupon to the transaction. Therefore, processing circuit 10 applies the printed coupon to the transaction. Processing circuit 10 updates the subtotal to 100 yen by subtracting the printed coupon's discount amount (200 yen) from the subtotal (300 yen) before applying the printed coupon to the transaction. At this point, the subtotal is 100 yen.

[0123] As described above, if the transaction satisfies the amount condition, the POS terminal 1 can apply the input coupon to the transaction.

[0124] If a store wants to impose a monetary condition on coupon application, the POS terminal 1 can check whether the input coupon is applicable to the transaction based on the monetary condition. This reduces the burden on store employees because they no longer need to check whether the coupon is applicable to the transaction based on the monetary condition.

[0125] [Other embodiments]

[0126] In the above description, the amount condition is described as a condition based on the subtotal amount, the discount amount of the input coupon, and the set amount, but the limitation is not limited to this. The amount condition can also be based on the subtotal amount and the set amount. In this example, the amount condition can be a condition that the subtotal amount exceeds the set amount.

[0127] In the above description, the subtotal amount used to determine whether a transaction meets the amount requirement is described as the subtotal amount at the current time, but this is not limited to this. The subtotal amount used to determine whether a transaction meets the amount requirement is independent of whether a coupon has been applied to the transaction and can be the total amount of the subtotal amount in the case where the coupon has not been applied to the transaction.

[0128] In the above description, a POS terminal 1 having both product registration and checkout functions, in which a store clerk is involved in product registration and checkout, is described as an example of a transaction processing device, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The transaction processing device may be a POS terminal having both product registration and checkout functions, and enabling customers to register and check out products without the intervention of a store clerk. The transaction processing device may be a product registration device having at least a product registration function. The transaction processing device may be a checkout device having at least a checkout function. The transaction processing device may be a terminal having at least a product registration function and capable of being used by customers during shopping. The terminal may be a dedicated terminal that can be mounted on a shopping cart, a mobile terminal pre-prepared by a store, or a mobile terminal held by a customer.

[0129] A server, such as a transaction management server, that can communicate with the POS terminal 1 can implement all of the functional units implemented by the POS terminal 1. In this case, the server is an example of a transaction processing device. A portion of the functional units implemented by the POS terminal 1 can be implemented by a server, such as a transaction management server, that can communicate with the POS terminal 1. In this case, the POS terminal 1 and the server are an example of a transaction processing device.

[0130] The transaction processing device may be realized by a single device as described using the POS terminal 1 as an example, or may be realized by a plurality of devices with dispersed functions.

[0131] The above embodiments may be applied to a method executed by a device, a program that enables a computer of the device to execute various functions, or a storage medium that stores the program.

[0132] Each of the one or more circuits comprising the processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs a portion of the multiple processes. The portion of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes or two or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in a single device or distributed across multiple devices.

[0133] The program can be transferred either stored in the device involved in the embodiments or not stored in the device. In the latter case, the program can be transferred via a network or stored in a storage medium. The storage medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The storage medium is a computer-readable medium. The storage medium can be in any form, as long as it can store the program and is computer-readable, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0134] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example 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 within the scope and spirit of the invention and are within the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims and their equivalents.

[0135] The above embodiments can be described as follows.

[0136] (1) A transaction processing device comprising:

[0137] a determination unit that determines whether the transaction satisfies an amount condition based on the amount of the transaction; and

[0138] The application unit applies the coupon identified by the input coupon information to the transaction if the transaction satisfies the amount condition.

[0139] (2) The transaction processing device according to (1), wherein:

[0140] The determination unit determines whether the coupon is a designated coupon.

[0141] The application unit applies the coupon to the transaction if the coupon is the designated coupon and the transaction satisfies the amount condition.

[0142] (3) The transaction processing device according to (2), wherein:

[0143] The application unit applies the coupon to the transaction if the coupon is a coupon different from the designated coupon.

[0144] (4) The transaction processing device according to (1), wherein:

[0145] The amount condition includes a case where an amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount of the coupon from the transaction amount is greater than a set amount.

[0146] (5) The transaction processing device according to (1), wherein:

[0147] The designated coupon is a coupon issued in electronic form.

[0148] (6) A storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to perform the following functions:

[0149] a determination function, for determining whether the transaction satisfies a monetary condition based on the transaction amount; and

[0150] An application function applies the coupon identified by the input coupon information to the transaction if the transaction meets the amount condition.

Claims

1. A transaction processing device, characterized in that: include: a determination unit, configured to determine whether the transaction satisfies a monetary condition based on the monetary amount of the transaction; as well as The application unit applies the coupon identified by the input coupon information to the transaction if the transaction satisfies the amount condition.

2. The transaction processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The determination unit determines whether the coupon is a designated coupon. The application unit applies the coupon to the transaction if the coupon is the designated coupon and the transaction satisfies the amount condition.

3. The transaction processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The application unit applies the coupon to the transaction if the coupon is a coupon different from the designated coupon.

4. The transaction processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The amount condition includes a condition that an amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount of the coupon from the transaction amount is greater than a set amount.

5. The transaction processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The designated coupon is a coupon issued in electronic form.

6. The transaction processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The determination unit further determines whether the same coupon information is input in a transaction. If the same coupon information is input, a message indicating that the same coupon information is input is displayed on the display device. If the same coupon information is not input, the determination unit further determines whether the amount condition is met.

7. The transaction processing device according to claim 2, wherein: The determination unit, when determining that the coupon is a designated coupon, determines whether an amount obtained by subtracting a discount amount for the designated coupon specified by the coupon information from a subtotal amount obtained by operating the subtotal button is greater than a set amount; if the amount is greater than the set amount, determines that the transaction satisfies the amount condition; and if the amount is not greater than the set amount, displays a message on the display device indicating that the transaction does not satisfy the amount condition.

8. The transaction processing device according to claim 7, wherein: The determination unit displays the message on a display device and displays a selection button for selecting whether to request the use of a designated coupon that does not meet the amount condition. The transaction processing device further includes: The additional registration restriction unit restricts registration of an additional product to one time when the use request is selected.

9. The transaction processing device according to claim 8, wherein: The additional registration restriction unit, after registering the additional products, applies the designated coupon when the subtotal button is operated and the judgment unit determines that the amount condition is satisfied; if it is determined that the amount condition is not satisfied, a message indicating that the amount condition is not satisfied is displayed on the display device, all the additionally registered products are cancelled, and the checkout processing is performed on the products other than the additionally registered products.

10. A storage medium storing a program that enables a computer to perform the following functions: a determination function, for determining whether the transaction satisfies a monetary condition based on the transaction amount; and An application function applies the coupon identified by the input coupon information to the transaction if the transaction meets the amount condition.

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