Commodity sales data processing device and program

Abstract

To provide a commodity sales data processing system, a commodity sales data processing device, and a program for preventing a customer from waiting.SOLUTION: A POS terminal 20 includes a customer side scanner unit 206 and a clerk side scanner unit 212. The POS terminal 20 includes a change dispenser 209 that performs adjustment processing based on registration content in the customer side scanner unit 206 and the clerk side scanner unit 212, and a CPU 201 that switches a use state of the clerk side scanner unit 212. The POS terminal 20 operates in a normal mode, a full-self mode, and a semi-self mode. The CPU 201 transmits a switching instruction for switching an operation mode of another POS terminal 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a product sales data processing device and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, in supermarkets and convenience stores, POS devices have been proposed that allow both store clerks and customers to pay for products (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-102856 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in supermarkets and convenience stores, the cashier may have to leave the register depending on the situation. This causes a slowdown in the operation of the cash register, which makes it take longer to check out products and keeps customers waiting.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a product sales data processing device and a program that prevent customers from having to wait. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one embodiment of the present invention is a product sales data processing device that operates in one of a plurality of modes and is equipped with a switching means that can switch from a mode in which a customer registers products and settles the bill to another mode, the switching means comprising a first switching means that switches the mode of the device itself in response to an instruction from another device, and a second switching means that switches the mode of the device itself in response to an instruction from the device itself, the first switching means switching modes in response to registration data being transmitted from the other device, and the second switching means switching modes in response to a store clerk logging in.

[0007] According to the above, it is possible to prevent customers from having to wait.

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a product sales data processing device that operates in one of a plurality of modes and has a switching means that can switch from a mode in which a customer registers products and settles the bill to another mode, wherein the switching means functions as a first switching means that switches the mode of the device itself in response to an instruction from another device, and a second switching means that switches the mode of the device itself in response to an instruction from the device itself, and the first switching means switches modes in response to registration data being sent from the other device, and the second switching means switches modes in response to a store clerk logging in. Effect of the Invention

[0009] As described above, it is possible to prevent customers from having to wait. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation of a POS terminal. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a POS terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a POS terminal. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of operation modes of the POS terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of operation modes of the POS terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of operation modes of the POS terminal. [Figure 8] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 9] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 10] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 11] 13 is an example of a display on the customer side display unit. [Figure 12] 13 is an example of a display on the customer side display unit. [Figure 13] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 14] 13 is an example of a display on the customer side display unit. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when switching an operation mode. [Figure 16] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 17] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when switching an operation mode in the second embodiment. [Figure 19] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 20] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 21] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 22] 13 is a table summarizing switching patterns of operation modes in the modified example. [Figure 23] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit in a modified example. [Figure 24] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit in a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] [First embodiment] Fig. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes three POS terminals, a first POS terminal 20-1, a second POS terminal 20-2, and a third POS terminal 20-3, and a store controller (store computer, management device) 10, which are communicatively connected via a LAN 11. Hereinafter, the first POS terminal 20-1, the second POS terminal 20-2, and the third POS terminal 20-3 will be collectively referred to as the POS terminal 20 unless otherwise distinguished.

[0012] The POS system 1 can be introduced into various stores, but in the following description, an example in which the POS system 1 is introduced into a convenience store will be described.

[0013] Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the installation of a POS terminal. Figure 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the customer side. Figure 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in Figure 2(A), a counter is placed on the right side of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side.

[0014] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a POS terminal. Fig. 3(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Fig. 3(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the store clerk side. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20. In Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the same parts are given the same symbols.

[0015] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20 shown in Fig. 4 will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. The POS terminal 20 comprises a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a hard disk 204, a customer display unit 205, a customer scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change dispenser 209, a store clerk display unit 210, a key operation unit 211, a store clerk scanner unit 212, a printing unit 213, an audio output unit 214, and a communication unit 215. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0016] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the POS terminal 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 202 . The ROM 202 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 201, including programs.

[0017] The RAM 203 is a read / write memory and stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores information acquired from the outside (e.g., a product master acquired from the store controller 10) and information generated in the process (e.g., registration information generated in the registration process, settlement information generated in the settlement process, etc.). In the following description, either or both of the registration information and the settlement information may be referred to as transaction information.

[0018] The hard disk 204 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 204 may store programs executed by the CPU 201 instead of the ROM 202. Also, instead of the RAM 203, the hard disk 204 may store information acquired from the outside and information generated during processing.

[0019] The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers, which displays various information to customers and accepts various inputs from customers. The customer side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customer use, and optically reads, for example, bar codes (product codes, etc.) attached to products.

[0020] Although the customer-side scanner unit 206 is used when a customer registers a product, the customer may register the product by other methods. For example, if a product order button or the like is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205, the customer can operate (press) the order button to register the product.

[0021] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism that accepts various cards (credit cards, transportation cards, etc.). The card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit, but it is sufficient that the card payment unit 208 includes at least the card recognition unit.

[0022] The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism that has an input port for banknotes and coins and an output port for banknotes and coins. It calculates the amount of money inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the input amount and the purchase amount, and dispenses the change from the output port.

[0023] The store clerk's display unit 210 is a touch display for the store clerk, which displays various information to the store clerk and receives various inputs from the store clerk. The key operation unit 211 is made up of various keys (buttons) and receives various inputs from the store clerk. The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for use by the store clerk, and optically reads, for example, bar codes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and store clerk codes attached to the name tags of store clerks.

[0024] Although the store clerk's scanner unit 212 is used when the store clerk registers a product, the store clerk may register the product by other methods. For example, if a key corresponding to a product (e.g., a key corresponding to a sports newspaper, etc.) is arranged on the key operation unit 211, the store clerk can operate (press) that key to register the product. Also, if a preset key corresponding to a product is displayed on the store clerk's display unit 210, the store clerk can operate that preset key to register the product.

[0025] Printing unit 213 is a printing unit that ejects media, and prints and issues various media such as receipts. Printing unit 213 is a single printing unit that can be freely rotated to face from the store clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the store clerk side (direction of the media issuing port). The orientation of the printing unit may be changed manually, or may be changed automatically (mechanically controlled, etc.) in response to, for example, a transition in operating mode (details described later). The correctness of the orientation of the printing unit may be detected by a sensor or the like.

[0026] The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance and the like. The communication unit 215 transmits and receives information to and from other devices (other POS terminals 20, the store controller 10).

[0027] (Overview of each operation mode) Next, the operation modes of the POS terminal 20 will be described. The POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes. For example, the POS terminal 20 has a normal mode, a full self-service mode, and a semi-self-service mode. The operation modes described below are operation modes during normal business (operation modes related to product registration processing and accounting processing), and do not include a counting mode for counting and inquiring sales and inventory, a maintenance mode for setting and maintenance work by store clerks and maintenance personnel, and a training mode for training new employees. The semi-self-service mode is an operation mode that is mainly used when transmitting and receiving data between a plurality of POS terminals 20. Here, an example of executing registration processing and settlement processing with one POS terminal will be described, and the normal mode and the full self-service mode will be described in detail below.

[0028] The CPU 201 in the POS terminal 20 functions as an operation mode switching means for switching the operation mode of the POS terminal 20. The CPU 201 in the POS terminal 20 also functions as a switching instruction means for generating a mode switching instruction for switching the operation mode in another terminal (another POS terminal 20). The POS terminal 20 also functions as an instruction receiving means for receiving a mode switching instruction from another POS terminal. In the POS terminal 20, the operation mode can be switched by the mode switching means by receiving a switching instruction by the instruction receiving means.

[0029] For example, the first POS terminal 20-1 is capable of switching its own operation mode. The first POS terminal 20-1 can also instruct the other POS terminals 20, the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3, to switch modes. The POS terminal 20 is also capable of transmitting a switching instruction to the other POS terminals 20. For example, the first POS terminal 20-1 is capable of transmitting a switching instruction to the other POS terminals 20, the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3. The transmission of data such as a switching instruction from the POS terminal 20 to the other POS terminal 20 may be performed directly from the POS terminal 20 to the other POS terminal 20, or may be performed indirectly via the store controller 10 or the like.

[0030] 5 to 7 are diagrams for explaining the outline of the operation modes of the POS terminal. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the normal mode. Fig. 5(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (product registration process, transaction process) and the actions of people (store clerks, customers) in the normal mode. Fig. 5(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of the operation of the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the full self-service mode. Fig. 6(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (product registration process, accounting process) and the actions of a person (customer) in the full self-service mode. Fig. 6(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of the operation of the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode. Figure 7(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processing (product registration processing, payment processing) and the actions of a person (customer) in semi-self-service mode, and Figures 7(B) and 7(C) are flowcharts showing the basic flow of operation of the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode.

[0031] In the following description, as a separate aspect from the classification of the three operating modes mentioned above (normal mode, full self-service mode, semi-self-service mode), the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the product registration process may be referred to as the registration mode, and the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process may be referred to as the accounting mode.

[0032] (Normal mode) As shown in Fig. 5(A), normal mode is an operation mode in which the clerk executes the registration process and the customer executes the payment process. That is, as shown in Fig. 5(B), in normal mode, the clerk is in registration mode and the customer is in payment mode. In other words, the POS terminal 20 operates in the registration and payment mode from the overall process from registration to payment.

[0033] In the normal mode, the store clerk registers the purchased items of the customer on the store clerk side (store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211). That is, the POS terminal 20 executes the registration process of the purchased items by the operation of the store clerk (operation of the store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211, etc.) (upper part of FIG. 5(A)).

[0034] When the clerk has completed the registration process, the customer checks the total amount of the purchased items on the clerk display unit 210, and settles the bill by inserting coins into the change machine 209 or by operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 5(A)).

[0035] That is, in the normal mode, as shown in Fig. 5(B), first, the clerk side scans the products using, for example, the clerk side scanner unit 212 (step S10: YES) and registers the products (step S11). After the subtotal key (for example, the subtotal key displayed on the clerk side display unit 210 or the subtotal key arranged on the key operation unit 211) is pressed (step S30: YES), the customer side settles the bill using, for example, the change dispenser 209 (step S50), and the process is completed. The subtotal key in step S30 is an operation key for completing the registration process, and may also be called a subtotal button, a registration completion key, a registration completion button, a bill key, or a bill button.

[0036] The customer may wait until the registration process is completed by the store clerk (until the total amount is confirmed), but may also insert coins into the change dispenser 209 before the registration process is completed, or may select a payment method, for example, payment by card settlement unit 208. In other words, the POS terminal 20 allows deposit of money as a settlement start process before the registration process is completed, for example, before the registration process or during the pedaling process (upper part of FIG. 5(A)).

[0037] After completing the registration of the purchased items, the store clerk may wait until the customer completes the payment (until the customer receives the change and receipt), or may register the purchased items of the next customer. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can register the purchased items of the next customer during the payment process (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In addition, the store clerk may be absent while the customer is paying (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In other words, after completing the registration of the purchased items, the store clerk may finish serving the customer while the customer is paying.

[0038] Furthermore, when there is change, the POS terminal 20 controls the dispenser 209 to dispense the change and the change note to prevent the customer from forgetting to take the change, and controls the printing unit 213 to issue a receipt after a sensor or the like recognizes that the customer has removed the change and the change note. The control of issuing a receipt after the customer has removed the change and the change note is also performed in other operation modes. As described above, in normal mode, there are cases where a store clerk is present in front of the customer who receives the change and cases where he is not. For example, when a store clerk is present, the above-mentioned control does not necessarily have to be performed (i.e., the dispense of the change and the change note and the issue of the receipt may be performed simultaneously, or the receipt may be issued first). In addition, the timing of the dispense of the change and the change note and the issue of the receipt may be controlled depending on the current operation mode and the presence / absence of a store clerk (for example, the presence / absence of a store clerk is recognized by a sensor).

[0039] (Full self mode) As shown in Fig. 6(A), the full self-service mode is an operation mode in which the customer side performs the registration process and the payment process. That is, as shown in Fig. 6(B), in the full self-service mode, the customer side is in both the registration mode and the payment mode. In other words, the POS terminal 20 operates in the registration and payment mode from the overall process from registration to payment.

[0040] In the full self-service mode, the customer registers the purchased items on the customer side (customer side scanner unit 206, customer side display unit 205). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the registration process of the purchased items by the customer's operation (scanning by the customer side scanner unit 206, touching the customer side display unit 205) (upper part of FIG. 6(A)).

[0041] When the registration process is completed, the customer checks the total amount of the purchased items on the customer side display unit 205, and settles the bill by inserting coins into the change machine 209 or operating the card settlement unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 6(A)). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209, operating the card settlement unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 6(A)).

[0042] That is, in the full self-service mode, as shown in Fig. 6(B), the customer side scans the product, for example, by customer side scanner unit 206 (step S20: YES), and registers the product (step S21). After pressing a registration completion key (for example, a registration completion key displayed on customer side display unit 205) (step S40: YES), the customer side settles the bill, for example, by change dispenser 209 (step S50), and the process is completed. The registration completion key in step S40 is an operation key for completing the registration process, and may also be called a registration completion button, subtotal key, subtotal button, bill key, bill button, etc.

[0043] As described above, in the full self-service mode, both the customer side performs the registration process and the settlement process, but this does not mean that the store clerk side cannot do anything. In other words, even when the POS terminal 20 is operating in the full self-service mode, for example, the store clerk side scanner unit 212 can scan the store clerk code. The state (operation mode) in which the registration process is performed on both the store clerk side and the customer side is sometimes called the double scan mode.

[0044] In addition, in the full self-service mode, before the product registration process is started, the settlement start process, such as depositing money into the change dispenser 209, cannot be performed, but it may be possible to perform the settlement start process before the product registration process is started. In this case, in the full self-service mode, it may be possible to perform all the processes of the settlement start process, such as depositing money and selecting the payment method using various cards, or it may be possible to perform only part of the settlement start process, for example, depositing money or selecting the payment method.

[0045] (Semi-self mode) The semi-self-service mode is an operation mode for two or more POS terminals 20, in which, as shown in Fig. 8(A), the clerk side of at least one POS terminal 20 (the first POS terminal 20-1 in the example of Fig. 7) executes the registration process, and the customer side of another POS terminal 20 (one of the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3 in the example of Fig. 7) executes the settlement process. That is, in the semi-self-service mode, one or more terminals (the first POS terminal 20-1 in the example of Fig. 7 as shown in Fig. 7(B)) are in the registration-only mode, and the other one or more terminals (the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3 in the example of Fig. 7 as shown in Fig. 7(C)) are in the settlement-only mode.

[0046] In the semi-self mode, the store clerk registers the purchased items of the customer on the store clerk side (store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211) of the first POS terminal 20-1 in the registration-only mode. In other words, the first POS terminal 20-1 executes the registration process of the purchased items by the operation of the store clerk (operation of the store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211, etc.) (upper part of FIG. 7(A)).

[0047] When the clerk has completed the registration process, the customer moves to the second POS terminal 20-2 in the payment-only mode, checks the total amount of the purchased items on the clerk-side display unit 210, and settles the bill by inserting coins into the change machine 209 or operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 7(A)). In other words, the second POS terminal 20-2 executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 7(A)).

[0048] When the registration process is completed at the POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode (the first POS terminal 20-1 in the example of Figure 7), the customer moves from the POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode to the POS terminal 20 in the payment-only mode (the second POS terminal 20-2 in the example of Figure 7), and information (registration information, etc.) necessary for the payment process of the POS terminal 20 (first POS terminal 20-1) that performed the registration process is supplied to the destination POS terminal 20 (the second POS terminal 20-2).

[0049] Methods for supplying information necessary for settlement processing from a POS terminal 20 in registration-only mode (the first POS terminal 20-1 in the example of Figure 7) to a POS terminal 20 in accounting-only mode (the second POS terminal 20-2 in the example of Figure 7) include a method in which the information necessary for settlement processing is sent from the POS terminal 20 in registration-only mode to the POS terminal 20 in accounting-only mode (it may be sent via the store controller 10; similarly below), or a method in which the POS terminal 20 in registration-only mode issues a medium (a medium on which a barcode or the like for obtaining information necessary for settlement processing is printed)

[0050] The destination POS terminal 20 (the POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode that executes the settlement process) may be specified in the POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode. Alternatively, the POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode may issue a medium (a medium on which a barcode or the like for obtaining information necessary for the settlement process is printed) and the POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode that reads the medium may be set as the destination POS terminal 20.

[0051] That is, in the semi-self mode, initially, the POS terminal 20 (first POS terminal 20-1) in the registration-only mode is registered by the clerk at the store. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, the clerk scanner unit 212 scans the commodity (step S10: YES) to register the commodity (step S11). After pressing the subtotal key (e.g., the subtotal key displayed on the clerk display unit 210 or the subtotal key arranged on the key operation unit 211) (step S30: YES), for example, a POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode (second POS terminal 20-2) is designated (step S31: YES), and the registration information is sent to the designated POS terminal 20 (step S32), completing the process.

[0052] In the example of Fig. 7(B), when product registration is completed, the subtotal key is pressed first, and then (after pressing the subtotal key), the POS terminal 20 is designated, but the processing procedure may be such that when product registration is completed, the POS terminal 20 is designated directly (without pressing the subtotal key). In the latter case, the subtotal key does not need to be displayed on the screen.

[0053] Next, as shown in FIG. 7(C), the POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-2) specified by the POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-2) in the registration-only mode receives the registration information (step S49: YES), and then the customer performs settlement, for example, by the change machine 209 (step S50), and the process is completed.

[0054] After sending the registration information (or issuing the medium), the store clerk can register the next customer's purchase (lower part of FIG. 7(A)). Also, after sending the registration information, the store clerk may not be present (lower part of FIG. 7(A)).

[0055] In the example of Fig. 7, the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode executes the settlement process using the registration information of the product registered in the first POS terminal 20-1 in the registration-only mode. In other words, the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode for the settlement process is the registration information of the product registered when the first POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the registration-only mode. However, if the registration information can be transmitted to the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode (or if a billing slip (registered trademark; the same applies below) can be issued), the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode for the settlement process does not necessarily have to be the registration information of the product registered when the first POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the registration-only mode.

[0056] As an example, the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode for the settlement process may be the registration information of the product registered when the first POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the normal mode. In other words, the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode may execute the settlement process using the registration information of the product registered when the first POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the normal mode.

[0057] In addition, when the registration process is completed on the store clerk side of the first POS terminal 20-1 (when the registration information is about to be sent or when the receipt is about to be issued), if the customer side has already started the settlement operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209 or operating the card settlement unit 208), the sending of the registration information or the issuance of the receipt may be prohibited, or the settlement operation may be canceled.

[0058] 7, the second POS terminal 20-2 receives the registration information (or reads the receipt) and executes the settlement process while operating in the settlement-only mode. However, if the settlement process can be executed after receiving the registration information (or after reading the receipt), the operating mode when the second POS terminal 20-2 receives the registration information (or reads the receipt) does not necessarily have to be the settlement-only mode.

[0059] As an example, the second POS terminal 20-2 may receive registration information from another terminal (e.g., the first POS terminal 20-1) when operating in the full self-service mode, and execute a payment process using the registration information received from the other terminal. Also, the second POS terminal 20-2 may read a receipt issued by another terminal (e.g., the first POS terminal 20-1) when operating in the full self-service mode, and execute a payment process using the registration information obtained from the receipt read from the other terminal.

[0060] The second POS terminal 20-2 transitions from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using the registration information received from the other terminal (it processes the registration information received from the other terminal as the settlement process in the accounting-only mode). Also, the second POS terminal 20-2 transitions from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using the accounting ticket issued by the other terminal (it processes the registration information based on the accounting ticket issued by the other terminal as the settlement process in the accounting-only mode).

[0061] The second POS terminal 20-2 does not have to switch from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using the registration information received from the other terminal (it may process the registration information received from the other terminal as the settlement process in the full self-service mode). The second POS terminal 20-2 does not have to switch from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using a bill issued by the other terminal (it may process the registration information based on the bill issued by the other terminal as the settlement process in the full self-service mode). In these cases, data may be sent and received between multiple POS terminals 20, and registration and settlement processes, etc. may be performed between the multiple POS terminals.

[0062] (Operation mode notification) The POS terminal 20 notifies the current operation mode. For example, the current operation mode may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210. Specifically, a screen having an operation mode display field may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210, and the current operation mode may be displayed in the operation mode display field on the screen. Also, a screen on which images (e.g., button-like images) corresponding to each operation mode are arranged may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210, and the image corresponding to the current operation mode may be displayed on the screen in a different display mode (e.g., a display mode that is more noticeable than the display mode of other images) from images that do not correspond to the current operation mode. The operation mode may also be displayed on the customer display unit 205 in a similar manner. The POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a PATLITE (registered trademark) or a display board (or a PATLITE or a display board may be connected to the POS terminal 20), and the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 may be notified by the PATLITE or the display board. The POS system 1 may also be provided with a warning light, a display board, etc. (or a warning light, a display board, etc. may be connected to the LAN 11), and the operation mode of each POS terminal 20 in the store may be notified by the warning light, the display board, etc. By using the warning light, the display board, etc., the operation mode can be visually confirmed even from a distance (apart from the store clerk display unit 210).

[0063] Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 may notify information according to the current operation mode. For example, a message according to the current operation mode may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. Specifically, when the current operation mode is the full self-service mode, for example, during standby, a message to the effect that the customer himself / herself should register the product (such as a message "We ask the customer to scan") may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 (for example, a scrolling display in large letters, etc.).

[0064] (Displayed in normal mode) Next, the display in the normal mode will be described with reference to Figs. 8 to 10. Figs. 8 to 10 are display examples of the clerk display unit 210 in the normal mode. Fig. 8 is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20, and is a display example before a product is purchased. In the screen shown in the figure, a subtotal button BT10, a pause button BT11, and a mode switching button BT50 are displayed in the lower right of the screen. The subtotal button BT10 is a button (registration completion key) for instructing the end of product registration. The clerk performs an operation of pressing (touching) the subtotal button BT10 after product registration is completed. The pause button BT11 is a button for pausing the POS terminal 20. The clerk operates the pause button BT11 when leaving the POS terminal 20 (for example, when going to look for a product, when not using the POS terminal 20 for a while, etc.). The mode switching button BT50 is a button for switching the operation mode of the other POS terminals 20 (the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3 when the POS terminal 20 is the first POS terminal 20-1). When switching the operation mode of the other POS terminals 20, the store clerk operates the mode switching button BT50.

[0065] 8, an image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-2 cash register (the second POS terminal 20-2), and an image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-3 cash register (the third POS terminal 20-3).

[0066] 9 is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20, and is a display example during the registration of products. Specifically, FIG. 9 is a screen showing the display contents of the registration screen when a first product (canned beer) and a second product (asparagus) are registered. In the screen shown in FIG. 9, the product name of the currently registered product (asparagus) is displayed in the upper left of the screen, and below that, the product names of the registered products (canned beer, asparagus) are displayed together with the respective prices. In addition, the points and total price of the registered products are displayed in the upper right of the screen. The mode switching button BT50 is also displayed on this screen. The function of the mode switching button BT50 is the same as that of the mode switching button BT50 shown in FIG. 8.

[0067] 9, the current total button BT20 is a button for instructing input of the deposit amount. When executing settlement processing at the store clerk's own terminal (first POS terminal 20-1), after receiving a deposit from a customer that is equal to or greater than the total amount (after inputting a deposit amount equal to or greater than the total amount), the store clerk operates the current total button BT20.

[0068] The 20-2 register button BT21 is a button for designating the 20-2 register (the second POS terminal 20-2). When the store clerk designates the second POS terminal 20-2 as the terminal for carrying out the settlement process, he or she operates the 20-2 register button BT21. Note that "(FULL)" displayed on the 20-2 register button BT21 indicates that the operation mode of the terminal corresponding to the 20-2 register button BT21 (the second POS terminal 20-2) is the full self-service mode.

[0069] When the operation of the 20-2 register button BT21 is accepted, the first POS terminal 20-1 transmits registration information to the 20-2 register (the second POS terminal 20-2).

[0070] The 20-3 register button BT22 is a button for designating the 20-3 register (the third POS terminal 20-3). When the store clerk designates the third POS terminal 20-3 as the terminal for executing the settlement process, the clerk operates the 20-3 register button BT22. Note that "(suspended)" displayed on the 20-3 register button BT22 indicates that the terminal (the third POS terminal 20-3) corresponding to the 20-3 register button BT22 is suspended. Also, the dashed line on the 20-3 register button BT22 indicates that the button (20-3 register button BT22) is displayed in a display mode (e.g., grayed down) that indicates that operation of the button is invalid.

[0071] In the example shown in FIG. 10, the operation of the 20-3 register button BT22 is not valid, but if the operation of the 20-3 register button BT22 is valid and the operation of the 20-3 register button BT22 is accepted, the first POS terminal 20-1 transmits registration information to the 20-3 register (the third POS terminal 20-3).

[0072] The receipt button BT25 is a button for issuing a receipt in the printing unit 213. A store clerk operates the receipt button BT25 when causing the POS terminal 20 that has read the receipt to carry out a settlement process.

[0073] Information required for executing the settlement process is coded and printed on the receipt. For example, the registered information used in the settlement process itself may be printed as a QR code (registered trademark) on the receipt, or information for identifying the registered information used in the settlement process (e.g., transaction identification information, etc.) may be printed as a barcode.

[0074] In the embodiment where a receipt ticket with a QR code printed thereon is issued, the POS terminal 20 that reads the receipt ticket (QR code) executes a settlement process using, for example, registration information obtained from the QR code. In the embodiment where a receipt ticket with a barcode printed thereon is issued, the POS terminal 20 that reads the receipt ticket (barcode) sends a registration information acquisition request including information for identifying the registration information obtained from the barcode (transaction identification information, etc.) to the terminal that issued the receipt ticket (first POS terminal 20-1) or a terminal that acquired the registration information from the terminal that issued the receipt ticket (for example, the store controller 10), thereby receiving the registration information from the terminal that sent the registration information acquisition request and executing a settlement process. In other words, in a mode in which a receipt ticket with the above-mentioned barcode printed on it is issued, when the terminal which issued the receipt ticket (the first POS terminal 20-1) or the terminal which acquired the registration information from the terminal which issued the receipt ticket (such as the store controller 10) receives a registration information acquisition request sent from the POS terminal 20 which read the receipt ticket, it transmits the registration information specified by the registration information acquisition request to the sender of the registration information acquisition request (the requester of the registration information).

[0075] The issued receipt is handed over to the customer by the store clerk. The customer then moves to the POS terminal 20 (the second POS terminal 20-2 or the third POS terminal 20-3), and the POS terminal 20 (customer side scanner unit 206) reads the code on the receipt, and the settlement process is carried out at the POS terminal 20.

[0076] The registration screen button BT26 is a button for returning the screen from the sub-plan screen to the registration screen. The store clerk operates the registration screen button BT26 when, for example, changing (adding or canceling) a purchased item.

[0077] As described above, the current total button BT20 is a button that is operated after a deposit amount equal to or greater than the total amount is entered, and Fig. 9 does not show a scene in which a deposit amount equal to or greater than the total amount is entered. Therefore, in Fig. 9, like the 20-3 register button BT22, the current total button BT20 may be displayed in a manner that indicates that operation is invalid.

[0078] FIG. 10 is a display example of a settlement screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20, and is a display example during settlement. Specifically, FIG. 10 is a screen in which the total amount is displayed as "Total" and the amount deposited in the change machine 209 is displayed as "Change Deposit Amount" on the screen in the state in which the product was last registered when the registration screen is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 10, "383 yen" is displayed as the total amount, "503 yen" is displayed as the change deposit amount (deposit amount), and "120 yen" is displayed as the change. The scene in FIG. 11 is a scene after the deposit amount "503 yen" which is more than the total amount "383 yen" is input, that is, a settlement process is executed on the own terminal (first POS terminal 20-1), so the buttons (20-2 register button BT21, bill button BT25) for executing the settlement process on the other terminal, the second POS terminal 20-2, are displayed in a display mode indicating that the operation is invalid. In the scene of FIG. 10, when the cash button BT20 is operated, the change machine 209 discharges change "120 yen" and the printer 213 issues a receipt or the like. When a customer deposits money while the registration screen is displayed or between the time the settlement screen is displayed and settlement is performed, and the customer requests a clerk to cancel the deposit, a deposit cancellation button may be provided for the clerk to cancel the deposit. The deposit cancellation button is displayed on the clerk display unit 210 and is not displayed on the customer display unit 205. For this reason, when a customer cannot cancel the deposit and wants to return the deposited currency, the customer requests a clerk to cancel the deposit. The deposit cancellation button BT18 may be displayed not only on the clerk display unit 210 but also on the customer display unit 205, or may be displayed only on the customer display unit 205.

[0079] (Displayed in Full Self Mode) Next, the display in the full self-service mode will be described with reference to Figs. 11 and 12. Figs. 12 and 31 are examples of displays on the customer display unit 205 in the full self-service mode. Fig. 11(A) is an example of a registration start screen displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 before product registration begins. In the screen shown in Fig. 11(A), a registration start button BT30 is displayed on the right side of the screen, and display language switch buttons BT35 to BT37 are displayed on the bottom left of the screen. The registration start button BT30 is a button for instructing the start of product registration. The customer operates the registration start button BT30 before starting product registration.

[0080] Fig. 11(B) is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 before product registration is started. Specifically, Fig. 11(B) shows the display contents of the registration screen when two items of products (tea and daifuku mochi) have been registered. Note that when the registration start button BT30 is operated on the registration start screen shown in Fig. 11(B), a registration screen on which no products have been registered yet (initial registration screen) is displayed, but for ease of explanation, Fig. 11(B) shows the registration screen after products have already been registered.

[0081] 11B, an image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-2 cash register (the second POS terminal 20-2), and an image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-3 cash register (the third POS terminal 20-3).

[0082] As shown in Figure 11(B), the message "Please register a product" is displayed at the top left of the screen, and below that is the message "Please hold the product's barcode close to the scanner to register it." Further below that is the message "If there is no barcode, please select an item from below," and below that is the "Vegetables" button BT38.

[0083] The checkout button BT32 is displayed at the bottom right of the screen, and to the left of that is the call store clerk button BT33. The checkout button BT32 is a button for instructing the user to end product registration. After product registration is complete, the customer operates the checkout button BT32. As described above, the call store clerk button BT33 is a button for calling a store clerk.

[0084] Also, the display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 are displayed at the bottom left of the screen. As described above, the buttons BT35 to BT37 are buttons for switching the display language to English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively. Also, the "Vegetable" button BT38 is a button for displaying each preset key for vegetables. By pressing the "Vegetable" button BT38, preset keys corresponding to vegetable products (for example, carrots, Chinese cabbage, cabbage, onions, etc.) are displayed.

[0085] FIG. 12 is a display example of the settlement screen displayed on the customer side display unit 205 in the full self mode. FIG. 12(A) is a settlement screen (payment method selection screen) displayed when settlement processing is started. For example, the POS terminal 20 displays a payment method selection screen as shown in FIG. 12(A) when the checkout button BT32 is operated on the registration screen (see FIG. 11(B)). FIG. 12(B) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when starting a cash payment. For example, the POS terminal 20 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 12(B) when cash is operated on the payment method selection screen (see FIG. 12(A)). FIG. 12(C) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when the deposit amount is determined. For example, the POS terminal 20 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 12(C) when cash (deposit) equal to or greater than the payment amount (purchase amount) is inserted.

[0086] Fig. 12(D) is a settlement screen (change screen) displayed when change is dispensed. For example, when the END (receipt) button BT40 is operated on the deposit screen (Fig. 12(C)), the POS terminal 20 displays the change screen as shown in Fig. 12(D). Fig. 12(E) is a settlement screen (receipt screen) displayed when change is removed. For example, when change is removed from the outlet of the change dispenser 209, the POS terminal displays a receipt screen as shown in Fig. 12(E). The POS terminal 20 may have a sensor such as a photosensor installed near the outlet, and determine that change has been removed when the sensor recognizes an object (presumably a customer's hand).

[0087] Fig. 12(F) is a pause screen displayed when in a pause state. That is, the POS terminal 20 is in a pause mode (pause state), and when in the pause mode, a pause screen as shown in Fig. 12(F) is displayed.

[0088] After displaying the receipt screen (FIG. 12(E)), the POS terminal 20 displays the registration start screen (FIG. 11(A)). For example, the POS terminal 20 displays the registration start screen after the receipt is removed from the issuing port of the printing unit 213. The POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a sensor that can recognize that the receipt has been removed from the issuing port.

[0089] Also, if no change is required, the change screen (FIG. 12(D)) may not be displayed, and the screen may transition from the deposit screen (FIG. 12(C)) to the receipt screen (FIG. 12(E)).

[0090] (Displayed in semi-self mode) Next, the display of the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode will be described with reference to Fig. 13 and Fig. 14. Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 are examples of display on the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode. In the description of Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, it is assumed that the first POS terminal 20-1 is in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) and the second POS terminal 20-2 is in the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode).

[0091] Fig. 13 is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the first POS terminal 20-1 in the semi-self mode (registration-only mode). Specifically, Fig. 13 shows the display contents of the registration screen when one item of product (egg (M)) is registered.

[0092] 13, an image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-2 cash register (the second POS terminal 20-2), and an image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-3 cash register (the third POS terminal 20-3).

[0093] The pause button BT11 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for pausing the terminal (the first POS terminal 20-1). The store clerk operates the pause button BT11 when leaving the terminal (for example, when going to look for a product, when not using the terminal for a while, etc.).

[0094] The 20-3 register button BT22 is a button for designating the 20-3 register (the third POS terminal 20-3). Note that "(Accounting M)" displayed on the 20-3 register button BT22 indicates that the terminal corresponding to the 20-3 register button BT22 (the third POS terminal 20-3) is in semi-self mode (accounting only mode).

[0095] The receipt button BT25 is a button for issuing a receipt by the printing unit 213. The issued receipt is handed over by the store clerk to the customer. The customer then moves to the third POS terminal 20-3, and the third POS terminal 20-3 (customer side scanner unit 206) reads the code on the receipt, and the settlement process is carried out at the third POS terminal 20-3.

[0096] A mode switching button BT50 is displayed to the right of the 20-3 register button BT22. The function of the mode switching button BT50 is similar to that of the mode switching button BT50 shown in FIG.

[0097] Fig. 14 shows an example of the settlement screen displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the second POS terminal 20-2 in semi-self mode (accounting only mode). Fig. 14(A) shows the settlement screen (standby screen) displayed before starting the settlement process. For example, when the second POS terminal 20-2 is in standby mode (standby state), it displays the standby screen as shown in Fig. 14(A).

[0098] FIG. 14(B) is a settlement screen (payment method selection screen) displayed when settlement processing is started. For example, when the second POS terminal 20-2 receives registration information, it displays a payment method selection screen as shown in FIG. 14(B). FIG. 14(C) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when starting a cash payment. For example, when cash is operated on the payment method selection screen (see FIG. 14(B)), the second POS terminal 20-2 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 14(C). FIG. 14(D) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when the deposit amount is determined. For example, when cash (deposit) equal to or greater than the payment amount (purchase amount) is inserted, the second POS terminal 20-2 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 14(D).

[0099] Fig. 14(E) is a settlement screen (change screen) displayed when change is dispensed. For example, the second POS terminal 20-2 displays the change screen as shown in Fig. 14(E) when the END (receipt) button BT40 is operated on the deposit screen (Fig. 14(D)). Fig. 14(F) is a settlement screen (receipt screen) displayed when change is removed. For example, the second POS terminal 20-2 displays the receipt screen as shown in Fig. 14(F) when change is removed from the outlet of the change machine 209.

[0100] Although not shown in the drawings, the second POS terminal 20-2 may display a pause screen when in a pause state.

[0101] After displaying the receipt screen (FIG. 14(F)) (for example, after the receipt is removed from the issuing port of the printing unit 213), the second POS terminal 20-2 displays the standby screen (FIG. 14(A)) or the payment method selection screen (see FIG. 14(B)). If no change is to be made, the second POS terminal 20-2 may transition from the deposit screen (FIG. 14(D)) to the receipt screen (FIG. 14(F)) without displaying the change screen (FIG. 14(E)).

[0102] As shown in Figures 12 and 14, the settlement screens (payment method selection screen, deposit screen, change screen, receipt screen) displayed when the POS terminal 20 is in full self-service mode are the same as the settlement screens (payment method selection screen, deposit screen, change screen, receipt screen) displayed when the POS terminal 20 is in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode).

[0103] (Operation mode transition) The POS terminal 20 changes the operation mode according to an explicit mode change operation by a store clerk (e.g., input on the screen, selection operation, etc.) or an operation other than the explicit mode change operation by the store clerk (e.g., reading a store clerk code, etc.). The POS terminal 20 also changes the operation mode based on a predetermined condition that does not depend on the operation of the store clerk (conditions related to time such as elapsed time or a predetermined time (schedule), conditions related to sending and receiving information to and from other terminals, etc.).

[0104] The manner in which the operation mode of the other POS terminal is changed by an explicit mode change operation by a store clerk includes a manner in which the operation mode is changed in association with an operation on the other POS terminal, and a manner in which the operation mode is changed by an operation for switching the operation mode of the other POS terminal. For example, the manner in which the operation mode is changed in association with an operation on the other POS terminal is a manner in which the other POS terminal (e.g., the second POS terminal 20-2) changes from the full self-service mode to the checkout-only mode in association with an operation of transmitting registration information from the POS terminal 20 (e.g., the first POS terminal 20-1) to the other POS terminal 20 (e.g., the second POS terminal 20-2) operating in the full self-service mode. For example, the manner in which the operation mode is changed in association with an operation for switching the operation mode of the other POS terminal is a manner in which the operation mode of the own POS terminal 20 is changed based on a switching instruction transmitted from the other POS terminal 20. For example, the second POS terminal 20-2 changes its operation mode based on a switching instruction from the first POS terminal 20-1.

[0105] In a mode in which the operation mode is changed by an operation for switching the operation mode of another POS terminal, when the POS terminal (second POS terminal 20-2) that is the target of the operation mode change is in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) and data for settling registered products, for example, unsettled registered data, is not stored, the operation mode change is permitted and possible. When the operation mode change is not permitted, the operation mode change is prohibited. The operation mode change according to the operation for switching the operation mode of another POS terminal will be described below.

[0106] 15 is a flow chart showing an example of an operation when switching the operation mode. In explaining the switching of the operation mode, an example will be described in which the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 is switched by a switching operation of the first POS terminal 20-1. In the following explanation, the first POS terminal 20-1 may be referred to as the "No. 1 register", the second POS terminal as the "No. 2 register", and the third POS terminal 20-3 as the "No. 3 register".

[0107] Step S111: The mode switching button BT50 is pressed. When the mode switching button BT50 is pressed, the No. 1 register transmits a switching instruction to the No. 2 and No. 3 registers. When the store clerk presses the mode switching button BT50 shown in Figs. 8 to 10 and 13, preparation for switching the operation mode begins. Through the subsequent processing, the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 is switched when switching is possible.

[0108] Step S112: It is determined whether the cash register 20-2 (register No. 2, second POS terminal 20-2) is prohibited from switching. When the cash register No. 2 receives a switching instruction from the cash register No. 1, if switching is prohibited, the cash register No. 2 returns switching prohibition information to the cash register No. 1 that sent the command. The cash register No. 1 determines whether switching is prohibited for the cash register No. 2 based on the returned switching prohibition information. The cash register No. 2 is prohibited from switching when it is not in the transaction-only mode, when it is in the transaction-only mode but unsettled data is stored, or when a predetermined time has passed since the last transaction was completed. When it is not in the transaction-only mode, this includes when a clerk is logged in or when the cash register is being used in the normal mode or registration-only mode. When it is in the line-only mode but unsettled data is stored, this is essentially when the transaction is being processed. The predetermined time may be determined as appropriate and may be, for example, 1 minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes. If the cash register No. 2 is not prohibited from switching, the process proceeds to step S113. If the No. 2 register is prohibited from switching, step S113 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S114.

[0109] Step S113: Preparation for display of the 20-2 register button is performed. Here, in order to notify that the operation mode of the No. 2 register is in a switchable state, preparation for displaying the 20-2 register button BT102 on the store clerk display unit 210 of the No. 1 register (first POS terminal 20-1) shown in Fig. 16(A) is performed.

[0110] Step S114: It is determined whether the 20-3 register (No. 3 register, third POS terminal 20-3) is prohibited from switching. When the No. 3 register receives a switching instruction from the No. 1 register, if switching is prohibited, it replies to the sender, No. 1 register, with switching prohibition information indicating that switching is prohibited. The No. 1 register determines whether switching is prohibited for the No. 3 register based on the returned switching prohibition information. When switching is prohibited for the No. 3 register, it is the same as when switching is prohibited for the No. 2 register. If switching is not prohibited for the No. 3 register, proceed to step S115. If switching is prohibited for the No. 3 register, skip step S115 and proceed to step S116.

[0111] Step S115: Preparation for display of the 20-3 register button is performed. Here, in order to notify that the operation mode of the No. 3 register is in a switchable state, preparation for displaying the 20-3 register button BT103 on the store clerk display unit 210 of the No. 1 register (first POS terminal 20-1) shown in Fig. 16(A) is performed.

[0112] Step S116: Determine whether or not the buttons are ready to be displayed. Here, in steps S113 and S115, determine whether or not the 20-2 register button BT102 and the 20-3 register button BT103 are ready to be displayed, and if one or both of the 20-2 register button BT102 and the 20-3 register button BT103 are ready to be displayed, proceed to step S117. If these buttons are not ready to be displayed, proceed to step S123.

[0113] Step S117: The register button to be switched to is displayed as active. Here, in step S113, if the 20-2 register button BT102 is prepared for display, the 20-2 register button BT102 is displayed as active as shown in FIG. 16(A), and if the 20-3 register button BT103 is prepared for display, the 20-3 register button BT103 is displayed as active. Here, the active display refers to a display in which the operation of the button is valid when the button is displayed. Also, if one register button is prepared for display and the other is not prepared for display, the register button that is not prepared for display is displayed in a grayed-out state. For example, if the 20-2 register button BT102 is prepared for display and the 20-3 register button BT103 is not prepared for display, the 20-2 register button BT102 is displayed and the 20-3 register button BT103 is displayed in a grayed-out state. At this time, the switch stop button BT101 is displayed together with the 20-2 register button BT102 and the 20-3 register button BT103. In this case, it is sufficient to display the registers so that it is clear which ones can be switched and which ones cannot be switched, for example, register buttons that are not prepared for display may be displayed in a grayed-out state, or may not be displayed at all.Also, the word "switchable" may be added to register buttons that are prepared for display, and the word "not switchable" may be added to register buttons that are not prepared for display.

[0114] Step S118: Determine whether the destination button has been pressed. Determine whether the register button displayed as active has been operated as the destination button. For example, when the 20-2 register button BT102 is displayed as active and the 20-3 register button BT103 is displayed as grayed out, determine whether the 20-2 register button BT102 has been pressed, and when the 20-2 register button BT102 and the 20-3 register button BT103 are displayed as active, determine whether either the 20-2 register button BT102 or the 20-3 register button BT103 has been pressed. If it is determined that the destination button has been pressed, proceed to step S119. If it is determined that the destination button has not been pressed, proceed to step S121.

[0115] Step S119: A switching instruction is sent to the cash register to be switched to. For example, when the 20-3 cash register button BT103 that is displayed as active is pressed, the switching instruction is sent to the No. 3 cash register (the third POS terminal 20-3). The No. 3 cash register to which the switching instruction was sent accepts the transmitted switching instruction. The No. 3 cash register that accepted the switching instruction switches its operating mode from semi-self-service mode to full-self-service mode.

[0116] Step S120: Display a switching execution notification. When the switching execution notification is displayed, a message is displayed indicating that the operation mode of the cash register to be switched has been switched. When the No. 1 cash register transmits a switching instruction, the switching execution notification shown in FIG. 16B is displayed. When the No. 1 cash register transmits a switching instruction, the switching execution notification is displayed by displaying a turn-off button BT111, and the process proceeds to step S122 when the turn-off button BT111 is pressed. Note that instead of pressing the turn-off button BT111, the display of the switching execution notification may be terminated and the process proceeds to step S122 when a predetermined time, for example, 5 seconds, has elapsed. Alternatively, the process may proceed to step S112 when either the turn-off button BT111 is pressed or the predetermined time has elapsed. Alternatively, when the No. 2 cash register switches the operation mode in response to a switching instruction received from the No. 1 cash register, the No. 1 cash register may transmit a switching completion signal to the No. 1 cash register, and when the No. 1 cash register receives the switching completion signal, the No. 1 cash register may display a switching execution notification.

[0117] Step S121: Determine whether the switching stop button has been pressed. Here, if the switching stop button BT101 shown in Fig. 16(A) has been pressed, proceed to step S122. If the switching stop button BT101 has not been pressed, return to step S118. Thus, when the switching destination button is displayed as active in step S117, the switching destination button continues to be displayed as active until the switching destination button or the stop button is pressed.

[0118] Step S122: Return to the original screen. The original screen is the screen before the mode switching button BT50 was pressed in step S111. As shown in Figs. 8 to 10 and 13, the mode switching button BT50 is displayed on the registration screen, the small plan screen, the settlement screen of the clerk side display unit 210 in normal mode, and the registration screen of the clerk side display unit 210 in semi-self mode, so in step S111, the screen returns to one of these screens before the mode switching button BT50 was pressed.

[0119] Step S123: A screen is displayed to inform the user that mode switching is not possible for the other cash registers. In this case, for example, a screen indicating that switching is not possible is displayed as shown in Fig. 17. When switching is not possible, the back button BT121 and the grayed-down 20-2 cash register button BT102 and 20-3 cash register button BT103 are displayed.

[0120] Step S124: After the back button BT121 is pressed, the display of the other cash registers that cannot be switched is erased, and then the process proceeds to step S122.

[0121] (Screen transition of the registration display device when switching modes of other cash registers) The mode switching operation of the other cash registers is performed by pressing the mode switching button BT50 displayed on the screens when the registration screen, the sub-screen display, the settlement screen, the registration screen on the clerk display unit 210 in the normal mode of the No. 1 cash register shown in Figures 8 to 10, and the registration screen on the clerk display unit 210 in the semi-self mode shown in Figure 13 are displayed. Note that the screen transitions shown below are the screen transitions on the clerk display unit 210 of the No. 1 cash register.

[0122] For example, when the mode switching button BT50 is pressed while the registration screen is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 in normal mode as shown in FIG. 8, if one or both of the No. 2 and No. 3 registers are switchable (when the mode is for accounting only and there is no unsettled data to store), the store clerk display unit 210 will display a switching explanation image GA10 over the registration screen shown in FIG. 8, as shown in FIG. 16(A).

[0123] In this example, both the No. 2 and No. 3 cash registers can switch their operating modes to full self-service mode, and the switching explanation image GA10 displays a switching explanation text such as "Which cash register would you like to switch?". Also displayed in the switching explanation image GA10 are a switching cancel button BT101, a 20-2 cash register button BT102, and a 20-3 cash register button BT103.

[0124] The switch cancel button BT101 is displayed to the right of the switch explanation. The 20-2 register button BT102 is displayed below the switch explanation, and the 20-3 register button BT103 is displayed to the right of the 20-2 register button BT102. In the screen shown in Fig. 16(A), the 20-2 register button BT102 and the 20-3 register button BT103 are both displayed as active, and both register buttons can be pressed. The 20-2 register button BT102 and the 20-3 register button BT103 also display the operation mode of the No. 2 and No. 3 registers, respectively, and the presence or absence of unsettled data to be stored when the operation mode is the full self-service mode and the accounting-only mode.

[0125] When either the 20-2 register button BT102 or the 20-3 register button BT103 cannot be pressed, it is displayed in a grayed-out state. Even in this case, the 20-2 register button BT102 and the 20-3 register button BT103 display the operation mode, etc. The display of the switching explanation image GA10 notifies the user that the operation mode of other registers, such as the No. 2 register and the No. 3 register, can be switched. Note that it is not necessary to display these operation modes or the presence or absence of stored unsettled data, and they may be displayed only when they are displayed as active or when they are displayed in a grayed-out state. For example, when the No. 2 register can switch its operation mode but the No. 3 register cannot, the switching explanation may be, for example, "Do you want to switch the No. 2 register?", and the switching explanation may be changed depending on the register whose operation mode can be switched.

[0126] For example, when a store clerk presses the 20-3 register button BT103 on the screen shown in FIG. 16(A), a switching completion explanation image GA11 is displayed over the registration screen shown in FIG. 8, as shown in FIG. 16(B). The switching completion explanation image GA11 displays a switching completion explanation message saying, "The 20-3 register has been switched to full self-service mode." Also, a delete button BT111 is displayed in the switching completion explanation image GA11. The delete button BT111 is displayed at the bottom right of the switching completion explanation message. The display of the switching completion explanation image GA11 notifies the user that the operation mode of the No. 3 register (the third POS terminal 20-3) has been switched to full self-service mode.

[0127] On the clerk-side display unit 210, when the clerk or the like presses the switch cancel button BT101 on the screen shown in Fig. 16(A), the switch explanation image GA10 is erased and the original registration screen (the registration screen shown in Fig. 8) is displayed. Similarly, when the clerk or the like presses the Erase button BT111 on the screen shown in Fig. 16(B), the switch completion explanation image GA11 is erased on the clerk-side display unit 210 and the original registration screen (the registration screen shown in Fig. 8) is displayed.

[0128] In addition, when the mode switching button BT50 is pressed while the registration screen is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 in normal mode as shown in FIG. 8, if both the No. 2 and No. 3 registers are unable to be switched (if they are not in the accounting-only mode, or if they are in the accounting-only mode but have no unsettled data to store), then the store clerk display unit 210 will display an unswitchable explanation image GA12, as shown in FIG. 17, overlaying the registration screen shown in FIG. 8.

[0129] The switch-impossible explanation image GA12 displays the switch-impossible explanation text "You cannot switch which register." The switch-impossible explanation image GA12 also displays the back button BT121, as well as the 20-2 register button BT122 and the 20-3 register button BT123, which are displayed in a grayed-out state. The 20-2 register button BT122 and the 20-3 register button BT123 also display the operation modes of the No. 2 and No. 3 registers, etc.

[0130] When the back button BT121 is pressed, the non-switching explanation image GA12 is erased and the original registration screen (the registration screen shown in FIG. 8) is displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210. The 20-2 register button BT122 and the 20-3 register button BT123 are both displayed in a grayed-out state and are inoperable, so that only the back button BT121 can be pressed on the non-switching explanation image GA12. Note that the 20-2 register button BT122 and the 20-3 register button BT123 may be displayed in a grayed-out state or may not be displayed at all.

[0131] As described above, the POS terminal 20 in the POS system 1 of this embodiment issues a switching instruction to switch the operation mode of the other POS terminals 20 in the POS system 1, and the other POS terminals 20 accept the switching instruction and switch their operation modes. Therefore, the operation mode of the POS terminals can be switched by the other POS terminals 20. For example, the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 can be switched by the first POS terminal 20-1. Therefore, the multiple POS terminals 20 in the POS system 1 can be operated efficiently, and customers can be prevented from having to wait.

[0132] For example, assume that the first POS terminal 20-1 operates in normal mode, the second POS terminal 20-2 operates in full self-service mode, and the third POS terminal 20-3 operates in accounting-only mode, and a store clerk operates the first POS terminal 20-1. In this case, even if many customers line up at the first POS terminal 20-1 and the second POS terminal 20-2, in order to switch the operation mode of the third POS terminal 20-3, the store clerk who operates the first POS terminal 20-1 needs to move to the third POS terminal 20-3, and there is a concern that the operation mode cannot be switched smoothly and the third POS terminal 20-3 cannot be used effectively. In this regard, since the operation mode of the third POS terminal 20-3 can be switched by operating the first POS terminal 20-1, the operation mode of the third POS terminal 20-3 can be switched without the store clerk moving near the third POS terminal 20-3. Therefore, multiple POS terminals 20 can be operated efficiently, and customers can be prevented from waiting.

[0133] Furthermore, when the POS terminal 20 is operating in the accounting-only mode, the customer processes the payment themselves, so there are often no store clerks near the POS terminal 20. When in the accounting-only mode, the POS terminal 20 switches the operation mode based on a switching command from another POS terminal 20, so the POS terminal 20 can be operated efficiently and customers can be prevented from having to wait.

[0134] Furthermore, even when the POS terminal 20 is operating in the accounting-only mode, if the operation mode is switched while unsettled data remains in the POS terminal 20, it can cause confusion in switching the operation mode. Furthermore, even in the full self-service mode, if the operation mode is switched immediately after the previous customer's payment, a similar problem can occur. In this regard, the above-mentioned POS terminal 20 prohibits switching of the operation mode even when operating in the accounting-only mode, if unsettled data is stored. Furthermore, switching of the operation mode is prohibited until a predetermined time has passed after the completion of the final payment process. This prevents confusion in switching the operation mode, allows the POS terminal 20 to operate efficiently, and prevents customers from having to wait.

[0135] Furthermore, if the operation mode is switched while the POS terminal 20 is operating in the normal mode, it will interfere with other customers who are registering products or processing payments in the normal mode. In this regard, the POS terminal 20 prohibits switching of the operation mode while operating in the normal mode. This makes it possible to avoid interfering with the payment processing of other customers.

[0136] Furthermore, when the POS terminal 20 of this embodiment receives a switching instruction from another POS terminal 20 that is to be the target of switching the operation mode, if switching is prohibited, specifically, if the terminal is not in the accounting-only mode, or if the terminal is in the accounting-only mode but unsettled data is stored, the terminal 20 sends back switching prohibition information indicating that switching is prohibited to the POS terminal 20 that sent the command. This allows the POS terminal 20 that sent the command to easily recognize the switching prohibition state of the POS terminal that is to be the target of switching the operation mode. This prevents unnecessary switching of the operation mode, and prevents customers from having to wait.

[0137] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the processing performed when the button display is not prepared is different. The configuration of the product sales data processing system is the same as that of the first embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 14. The following describes this embodiment, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0138] (Operation mode transition) As in the first embodiment, the POS terminal 20 switches and transitions its own operation mode based on an explicit mode transition operation by the clerk (e.g., input on the screen, selection operation, etc.), other operations other than the explicit mode transition operation by the clerk (e.g., reading a clerk code, etc.), and predetermined conditions not dependent on the operation of the clerk (conditions related to time such as elapsed time or a predetermined time (schedule), conditions related to sending and receiving information with other terminals, etc.), as well as a switching instruction sent from another terminal. Furthermore, in the POS terminal 20 of this embodiment, when switching of the operation mode is prohibited in the POS terminal 20 that is the target of the operation mode switching, forced switching can be performed to forcibly switch the operation mode. Forced switching of the operation mode will be described below.

[0139] Fig. 18 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation when switching the operation mode in the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 18, the process when it is determined in step S116 that the button display preparation is not performed differs from that in the first embodiment. Note that the processes in steps S111 to S122 are the same as those in the first embodiment shown in Fig. 15, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0140] Step S151: Display that switching to other registers is not possible and display the forced switch button. In the first embodiment, if the button display preparation is not completed, a screen is displayed to inform the user that mode switching to other registers is not possible. In this embodiment, however, as shown in Fig. 19(A), the 20-2 register button BT302 and the 20-3 register button BT303 are displayed in a grayed-out state, and the forced switch button BT301 and back button BT304 are displayed.

[0141] Step S152: Determine whether or not the forced switching button has been pressed. If the forced switching button has been pressed, proceed to step S153. If the forced switching button has not been pressed, proceed to step S161.

[0142] Step S153: A forced switching destination designation button is displayed. When the forced switching button is pressed, the operation mode of other POS terminals for which switching of the operation mode is prohibited is forcibly switched. Here, in order to determine the POS terminals for which the operation mode is to be forcibly switched, the 20-2 register button BT311 and the 20-3 register button BT312 shown in FIG. 19(B) are displayed as active. At this time, a forced switching stop button BT313 is also displayed. When the operation mode is forcibly switched, the operation mode to be switched to is predetermined. Here, if the operation mode before the forced switching is normal mode or semi-self-service mode, it is forcibly switched to full self-service mode, and if it is full self-service mode, it is switched to normal mode.

[0143] Step S154: Determine whether the forced switching destination designation button has been pressed. If the forced switching destination designation button has been pressed, in this case, if either the 20-2 register button BT311 or the 20-3 register button BT312 shown in Fig. 19(B) has been pressed, proceed to step S156. If neither the 20-2 register button BT311 nor the 20-3 register button BT312 has been pressed, proceed to step S155.

[0144] Step S155: Determine whether the cancel button is pressed. Here, determine whether the forced switching cancel button BT313 shown in FIG. 19(B) is pressed. If the cancel button BT131 is pressed, proceed to step S122. If the forced switching cancel button BT313 is not pressed, return to step S154. Therefore, when the screen shown in FIG. 19(B) is displayed, this screen continues to be displayed until any of the 20-2 register button BT311, the 20-3 register button BT312, and the forced switching cancel button BT313 is pressed. Note that, if the 20-2 register button BT311, the 20-3 register button BT312, and the forced switching cancel button BT313 are not pressed even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the same processing as when the forced switching cancel button BT313 is pressed may be performed.

[0145] Step S156: Display a forced switching execute button and a forced switching cancel button. Here, as shown in Fig. 20, a forced switching execute button BT321 and a forced switching cancel button BT322 are displayed.

[0146] Step S157: Determine whether the forced switching execution button has been pressed. If the forced switching execution button has been pressed, proceed to step S158. If the forced switching execution button has not been pressed, proceed to step S158.

[0147] Step S158: It is determined whether the cancel button is pressed. Here, it is determined whether the forced switching cancel button BT322 shown in FIG. 20 is pressed. If the forced switching cancel button BT322 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S122. If the forced switching cancel button BT322 is not pressed, the process returns to step S157. Therefore, when the screen shown in FIG. 20 is displayed, this screen continues to be displayed until either the forced switching execution button BT321 or the forced switching cancel button BT322 is pressed. Note that, if the forced switching execution button BT321 or the forced switching cancel button BT322 is not pressed even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the same process as when the forced switching cancel button BT322 is pressed may be performed.

[0148] Step S159: A forced switch instruction is sent to the register to which the switch is to be made. For example, when the forced switch execution button BT321 in FIG. 20 is pressed, a forced switch instruction is sent to the No. 3 register (the third POS terminal 20-3). The No. 3 register to which the forced switch instruction was sent accepts the forced switch instruction. The No. 3 register that accepted the switch instruction is in transaction-only mode and switching is prohibited, but the forced switch instruction forcibly switches the register to full self-service mode.

[0149] Step S160: Display a forced switching execution notification. When the forced switching execution notification is displayed, a message is displayed indicating that the operation mode of the cash register to be switched to has been forcibly switched. When the No. 1 cash register transmits a switching instruction, the forced switching execution notification shown in FIG. 20B is displayed. When the No. 1 cash register transmits a switching instruction, the forced switching execution notification is displayed, and the process proceeds to step S122 when the No. 1 cash register is pressed. Instead of pressing the No. 1 cash register, the display of the switching execution notification may be terminated by the passage of a predetermined time, for example, 5 seconds, and the process proceeds to step S122. Alternatively, the process may proceed to step S112 when the No. 2 cash register transmits a switching completion signal to the No. 1 cash register when it switches the operation mode in response to a switching instruction received from the No. 1 cash register, and the No. 1 cash register may display a switching execution notification when it receives the switching completion signal.

[0150] Step S161: Determine whether the back button has been pressed. If the back button BT304 shown in Fig. 19(A) has been pressed, proceed to step S122. If the back button BT304 has not been pressed, return to step S160. Thus, in step S161, the other register switching impossible display and the forced switching button display continue until either the forced switching button BT301 or the back button BT304 is pressed.

[0151] (Screen transition of the registration display device when switching modes of other cash registers) The mode switching operation for the other cash registers is performed by pressing the mode switching button BT50 displayed on the screens when the registration screen, the sub-screen display, the settlement screen, and the registration screen on the clerk display unit 210 in the normal mode of the No. 1 cash register shown in Figures 8 to 10, and the registration screen on the clerk display unit 210 in the semi-self mode shown in Figure 13 are displayed. Note that the screen transitions shown below are screen transitions on the clerk display unit 210 of the No. 1 cash register. This is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0152] Also, for example, when the registration screen is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 in normal mode as shown in Fig. 8, the process in which the No. 2 register and the No. 3 register are switchable when the mode switching button BT50 is pressed is the same as in the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, if the No. 2 register and the No. 3 register are not switchable when the mode switching button BT50 is pressed, the switchable explanation image GA12 shown in Fig. 17 is displayed, but in this embodiment, the forced switching image GA30 shown in Fig. 19(A) is displayed.

[0153] As shown in FIG. 19(A), the forced switching corresponding image GA30 is displayed so as to overlap the registration screen shown in FIG. 8. The forced switching corresponding image GA30 displays a switching impossible explanation message saying "Which register cannot be switched." In addition, the forced switching corresponding image GA30 displays a back button BT304, and also displays the 20-2 register button BT302 and the 20-3 register button BT303, which include information such as the operation mode and are displayed in a grayed-down state. This is the same as the switching impossible explanation image GA12 shown in FIG. 17. In addition, the forced switching corresponding image GA30 displays a forced switching button BT301. This is different from the first embodiment.

[0154] When the forced switching button BT301 is pressed, the forced switching register selection image GA31 shown in Fig. 19(B) is displayed. The forced switching register selection image GA31 is displayed so as to overlay the registration screen shown in Fig. 8. The forced switching register selection image GA31 displays a forced switching register explanation such as "Which register would you like to forcibly switch?". Additionally, the forced switching register selection image GA31 displays the 20-2 register button BT311 and 20-3 register button BT312 displayed as active, and further displays a forced switching cancel button BT313.

[0155] Here, for example, when the 20-3 register button BT312 is pressed, a forced switch confirmation image GA32 is displayed as shown in FIG. 20(A). The forced switch confirmation image GA32 displays a forced switch confirmation message saying, "Do you want to forcibly switch the 20-3 register?" Furthermore, the forced switch confirmation image GA32 displays a forced switch execution button BT321 and a forced switch cancellation button BT322. Furthermore, the No. 3 register that is the target of the forced switch is in the accounting-only mode. In the accounting-only mode, products are registered, and a customer may deposit money into the change machine 209 for accounting (settlement). In this case, the amount of money deposited into the change machine 209 and the total amount of the products may affect the handling of change, so the forced switch confirmation image GA32 displays the amount of money deposited in the No. 3 register and the total amount of the registered products. In the example shown in FIG. 20(A), an example is shown in which the amount of money deposited is 0 yen because there was no deposit into the change machine 209 in the No. 3 register.

[0156] When the 20-2 register button BT311 is pressed, a forced switch confirmation message "Do you want to force switch the 20-2 register?" is displayed on the forced switch confirmation image GA32. The No. 2 register to be switched to is in full self-service mode, but the deposit amount and total amount are displayed in the same way as when it is in accounting-only mode. When the forced switch cancel button BT313 is pressed, the forced switch is canceled and the registration screen shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.

[0157] Returning to FIG. 20(A), when the forced switching execution button BT321 in the forced switching confirmation image GA32 is pressed, a forced switching completion image GA33 is displayed as shown in FIG. 20(B). The forced switching completion image GA33 is displayed so as to overlay the registration screen shown in FIG. 8. A forced switching completion explanation such as "The 20-3 cash register has been switched to full self-service mode" is displayed in the forced switching completion image GA33. Also, a delete button BT331 is displayed in the forced switching confirmation image GA32. By pressing this delete button BT331, the forced switching completion image GA33 is deleted, and the registration screen shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.

[0158] Furthermore, when the 20-3 register button BT312 in the forced switching register selection image GA31 shown in Fig. 19(B) is pressed, if a deposit is made into the change dispenser 209 in the No. 3 register to be switched to, the amount of the deposit is displayed in the forced switching confirmation image GA40 displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 21(A). In the example shown in Fig. 21(A), the amount of the deposit is 2000 yen, which is higher than the total amount of the registered products, 1928 yen.

[0159] Next, when the forced switch execution button BT401 of the forced switch confirmation image GA40 is pressed, the change dispensing confirmation image GA41 shown in Fig. 21(B) is displayed. The change dispensing confirmation image GA41 displays a small forced switch completion explanation message saying "Cash register 20-3 has been switched to full self-service mode," along with a change dispensing confirmation message saying "Do you want to dispense your change?". Additionally, an accept button BT411 and a dispense button BT412 are displayed in the change dispensing confirmation image GA41.

[0160] Here, when the accept button BT411 is pressed, the settlement at the No. 3 register is completed without dispensing any change. When the payout button BT412 is pressed, the change is dispensed and the settlement at the No. 3 register is completed. For this reason, for example, when there is no customer near the No. 3 register, the accept button BT411 can be pressed to complete the settlement without dispensing the change, preventing the change from being left behind or stolen. When there is a customer near the No. 3 register, the payout button BT412 can be pressed to dispense the change, improving the convenience of the customer when receiving the change. When the change is dispensed, a receipt may also be issued.

[0161] As described above, the POS system 1 of this embodiment has the same effect as the first embodiment. In addition, the POS terminal 20 in the POS system 1 of this embodiment is capable of forcibly switching the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 in which switching of the operation mode is prohibited. For example, the first POS terminal 20-1 can switch the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2, and when switching of the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 is prohibited, the second POS terminal 20-2 can be forcibly switched. For example, when the second POS terminal 20-2 is in the normal mode, switching of the operation mode by the first POS terminal 20-1 is prohibited, but forced switching is possible.

[0162] For example, when the POS terminal 20 operates in normal mode, it is assumed that a store clerk and a customer are present. Therefore, when the POS terminal 20 is in normal mode, switching of the operation mode according to a switching command from another POS terminal 20 is prohibited so as not to disturb the work of the store clerk and the customer from product registration to payment. However, even if the POS terminal 20 is in normal mode, a situation may arise where the POS terminal 20 is left as it is without a store clerk or a customer present. If the POS terminal 20 is left in normal mode, it will cause an impediment to efficient operation of the POS terminal 20.

[0163] In this regard, in the above-mentioned POS system 1, the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 can be forcibly switched by issuing a forced switching instruction from another POS terminal 20. The forced switching instruction is issued by operating the clerk-side display unit 210, and the forced operation instruction is mainly issued by the clerk. For this reason, the forced switching can be performed after the clerk has checked the presence or absence of a clerk and a customer at the POS terminal 20 that is the target of the forced switching. Therefore, even for a POS terminal 20 that is prohibited from being switched, such as a POS terminal that is not in the transaction-only mode, the operation mode can be switched at the discretion of the clerk operating the other POS terminal 20 depending on the situation, so that the POS terminal 20 can be operated efficiently and customers can be prevented from having to wait.

[0164] The following are some examples of situations where the POS terminal 20 may be left unattended without a store clerk or customer: When the POS terminal 20 is operating in the full self-service mode, a customer may have registered a product and then left without completing the payment process. Alternatively, when the POS terminal 20 is operating in the full self-service mode or the accounting-only mode, a customer may have made a deposit and then left while the payment process was in progress, or a customer may have deposited more currency than the total amount (purchase amount) and then left without completing the payment process.

[0165] Under these circumstances, for example, if the operation mode after the settlement process is the accounting-only mode, the next registration information cannot be sent, and if the operation mode after the settlement process is the full-self mode, the next customer cannot operate the POS terminal 20. In such a case, by performing a forced switch, the operation mode can be switched according to the situation, so that it is possible to prevent the customer from having to wait. If the operation mode is forced to switch in a situation where a customer leaves while the settlement process is in progress after depositing money, or in a situation where a customer deposits more money than the total amount (purchase amount) and leaves without completing the settlement process, it is preferable to save the data of the amount without refunding the deposited money. In this case, it is possible to prevent cash from being left at the POS terminal 20 when there is no customer or store clerk.

[0166] [Variations] Next, a modified example of the present invention will be described. In the above embodiment, the condition for prohibiting switching of the operation mode of the POS terminal is an operation mode other than the transaction-only mode, but the condition for prohibiting switching may be other conditions, for example, the operation mode before switching of the POS terminal that is the target of switching of the operation mode (hereinafter referred to as the "switching target POS terminal") may be any of normal mode, full self mode, and transaction-only mode. Note that in the following description, the POS terminal that outputs a switching instruction to the switching target POS terminal may be the first POS terminal 20-1, and the switching target POS terminal may be the second POS terminal 20-2.

[0167] In this case, the conditions for prohibiting switching may be different depending on the operation mode of the switching target POS terminal before switching. Also, in the above embodiment, the operation mode after switching of the switching target POS terminal is full self mode, but it may be a mode other than full self mode. Also, if it is a mode other than full self mode, it may be determined depending on the operation mode of the switching target POS terminal before switching. Also, in the above embodiment, the operation mode after switching of the switching target POS terminal is set to full self mode, but it may be possible to select from a plurality of operation modes.

[0168] For example, as shown in Fig. 22, the operation mode of the switching target POS terminal may be any of the normal mode, the full self-service mode, and the checkout-only mode (semi-self-service mode). When the operation mode of the switching target POS terminal is the normal mode, for example, a condition for prohibiting switching of the operation mode may be that another store clerk is logged in. For example, a condition for prohibiting switching of the second POS terminal 20-2 may be that a store clerk different from the store clerk logged in to the first POS terminal 20-1 is logged in to the second POS terminal 20-2. The switching target POS terminal is, for example, switchable from the normal mode to the full self-service mode.

[0169] When the operation mode of the switching target POS terminal is the full self-service mode, the conditions for prohibiting switching the operation mode may be, for example, when unsettled data is stored as in the above embodiment, before a certain time has elapsed after the previous customer (last customer) has paid, or when the next customer is detected. Alternatively, it may be when two or more (all) of these conditions are satisfied. The switching target POS terminal is, for example, switchable from the full self-service mode to a checkout-only mode (semi-self-service mode).

[0170] When the operation mode of the switching target POS terminal is the accounting-only mode, the conditions for prohibiting switching the operation mode may be, for example, that unsettled data is stored as in the above embodiment, or that a certain amount of time has not elapsed since the previous customer (last customer) who is currently making a payment has paid. Or, it may be that two or more (or all) of these conditions are met. The switching target POS terminal is, for example, switchable from the accounting-only mode (semi-self-service mode) to the full-self-service mode.

[0171] A situation in which a store clerk operates the first POS terminal 20-1 to switch the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 includes a situation in which there is no store clerk near the second POS terminal 20-2. When the second POS terminal 20-2 is in the normal mode or the registration-only mode (semi-self-service mode), a store clerk is required to perform registration work at the second POS terminal 20-2, so there is often a store clerk near the second POS terminal 20-2. Also, when the second POS terminal 20-2 is in the full self-service mode or the settlement-only mode (semi-self-service mode), there is no need for a store clerk to perform registration work at the second POS terminal 20-2, so there is often no store clerk near the second POS terminal 20-2. Therefore, by switching the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2, which is the full self-service mode or the settlement-only mode (semi-self-service mode), by the first POS terminal 20-1, the second POS terminal 20-2 can be operated efficiently, and customers can be prevented from having to wait.

[0172] Since there is often no store clerk near the second POS terminal 20-2 after the switching, it is difficult to improve convenience even if the mode is switched to normal mode or registration-only mode. For this reason, it is preferable that the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 after the switching is the full self-service mode or the checkout-only mode. The operation mode of the switching target POS terminal after the switching may be another operation mode, for example, the normal mode, the registration-only mode (semi-self-service mode), or the double scan mode. For example, when a store clerk performing a registration operation at the first POS terminal 20-1 sees another store clerk approaching the second POS terminal 20-2 in the full self-service mode, the normal mode, the registration-only mode, or the double scan mode can be set when the other store clerk reaches the second POS terminal 20-2, thereby improving convenience.

[0173] Furthermore, the operation mode after switching of the switching target POS terminal is determined according to the operation mode before switching, but the operation mode after switching may be selected from a plurality of operation modes. For example, when the operation mode of the switching target POS terminal is the normal mode or the registration-only mode, it may be switched to either the full self-service mode or the checkout-only mode. The transition of the screen of the store clerk display unit 210 of the first POS terminal 20-1 when the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 is switched to either the full self-service mode or the checkout-only mode will be described below with reference to FIG. 23.

[0174] In this example, when the mode switching button BT50 included in the registration screen or the like displayed on the clerk side display unit 210 of the first POS terminal 20-1 shown in FIG. 8 is pressed, a switching register explanation image GA20 is displayed as shown in FIG. 23(A). The switching register explanation image GA20 displays a switching register explanation text such as "Which register would you like to switch?". The switching register explanation image GA20 displays a cancel button BT201, a 20-2 register button BT202, and a 20-3 register button BT203. The 20-2 register button BT202 displays the text "Registration only mode", which is the current operating mode of the No. 2 register, and the 20-3 register button BT203 displays the text "Accounting only mode", which is the current operating mode of the No. 3 register.

[0175] Next, when the 20-2 register button BT202 is pressed, a switching mode explanation image GA21 is displayed, as shown in Fig. 23(B). The switching mode explanation image GA21 displays a small switching explanation saying "Switching 20-2 register (currently: registration mode)" and a switching mode explanation saying "Which mode would you like to switch to?". A cancel button BT211, a full self mode button BT212, and a checkout only mode button BT213 are displayed in the switching mode explanation image GA21.

[0176] Next, when the full self-service mode button BT212 is pressed, the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 is switched to the full self-service mode. When the accounting-only mode button BT213 is pressed, the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-2 is switched to the accounting-only mode.

[0177] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the device configuration, data configuration, processing flow, display and output modes, and the like can be changed or modified as appropriate.

[0178] (Regarding mode switching from outside the POS terminal) In the above example, the POS terminal 20 issues an instruction to switch the operation mode of the other POS terminals 20, but an external device other than the POS terminal 20 may issue an instruction to switch the operation mode. For example, a mobile terminal or a tablet terminal may issue an instruction to switch the operation mode of the POS terminal 20. For example, these mobile terminals or tablet terminals may be ones that are always carried by store clerks, or may be ones that are carried by people other than store clerks. Also, an instruction to switch the operation mode may be issued from the store controller 10 or the like. Also, the POS terminal 20 may not have a function to issue an instruction to switch the operation mode.

[0179] (Mode switching selection when switching command is issued) In the above example, the POS terminal 20 that received the switching instruction cannot decide whether to accept the switching instruction, but it may be possible to decide whether to accept the switching instruction. For example, when a switching instruction is given while the operation mode is the normal mode, as shown in FIG. 24, an acceptance / rejection selection display image GA50 may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 210, and the customer may decide whether to accept the mode switching by operating the accept button BT501 or the reject button BT502 included in the acceptance / rejection selection display image GA50. In this case, for example, the mode switching may be rejected during registration or payment processing, and the mode switching may be accepted during standby. Therefore, the mode can be switched depending on the situation, and it is possible to prevent customers from having to wait.

[0180] The accept button BT501 or the reject button BT502 included in the acceptance / rejection selection display image GA50 may be operated by, for example, a store clerk who is present to operate the POS terminal 20 that received the switching instruction. Also, an upper limit may be set for the display time of the acceptance / rejection selection display image GA50, and the switching instruction may be accepted when the display time of the acceptance / rejection selection display image GA50 exceeds the upper limit. In this case, for example, even if the POS terminal 20 that received the switching instruction is in the full self-service mode and there is no store clerk to operate the POS terminal 20, the operation mode can be switched reliably.

[0181] (About operation modes)

[0182] The POS terminal 20 may also switch operation modes based on a predetermined condition not dependent on the operation of a store clerk (conditions related to time such as elapsed time or a predetermined time (schedule), conditions related to sending and receiving information such as commands between other terminals, etc.) Specifically, for example, the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may switch to the full self-service mode if it continues to be unused until a purchased item is registered or a payment is made (after the payment is completed in the case where the process from registration to payment has been performed previously).

[0183] When operating in the full self mode, a screen on which buttons corresponding to each clerk are arranged may be displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, and the clerk may be identified according to the button touched on the screen. Alternatively, buttons corresponding to each clerk may be arranged on the key operation unit 211, and the clerk may be identified according to the button operated on the key operation unit 211.

[0184] Also, the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode may be made to function as a semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode). That is, the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) transmits registration information to the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) and causes the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) to execute the settlement process, but the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) may transmit registration information to the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode and causes the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode to execute the settlement process. Note that, when a customer is not operating the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) may be made to transmit registration information. It may be possible to prevent the registration information from being transmitted when a customer is operating, or to transmit the registration information so that the settlement is immediately performed after the customer finishes operating even if the customer is operating.

[0185] In addition, in relation to the transmission of registration information, a send button may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20 that is the sender of the registration information. On the store clerk display unit 210, send buttons for all other POS terminals on the LAN 11 may be displayed in a manner that allows each POS terminal to be identified (for example, displaying with terminal numbers such as "register 1" and "register 2"), or send buttons for POS terminals that can be destinations (POS terminals 20 operating in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) and POS terminals 20 operating in full-self-service mode) may be displayed in a manner that allows each POS terminal to be identified. One or more POS terminals 20 that are permitted as destinations for sending registration information from the POS terminal 20 may be determined in advance (i.e., the coupling of the registration side and the settlement side may be determined in advance), and the send buttons may be displayed based on this.

[0186] Additionally, buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently capable of transmitting registration information and buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently unable to transmit registration information may be displayed in different display modes. For example, buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently capable of transmitting registration information may be displayed in a normal display mode, and buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently unable to transmit registration information may be displayed in a special display mode (e.g., grayed down). Buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently unable to transmit registration information may be made inoperable or prohibited from being operated (e.g., touch may not be enabled).

[0187] Also, the status (e.g., waiting, in use, near end, near full, offline, etc.) of each POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be transmitted may be notified. For example, the status of each POS terminal 20 may be shared (e.g., transmission and reception of information indicating the status, centralized management in the store controller 10 or a representative POS terminal 20, etc.) in the LAN 11, and information indicating the status of each POS terminal 20 (e.g., badge-like images indicating "waiting", "in use", "near end", etc.) may be displayed on the above-mentioned button (or associated with the button). Note that in the case of a POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode, the terminal is in waiting state when the customer is not operating it, and when the customer starts registration, it changes from waiting to in use, and when the settlement is completed, it changes from in use to waiting again. The in-use state may be divided into "registering" and "settlement" before and after the operation of the registration completion key (subtotal key).

[0188] Furthermore, although it has been explained that the POS terminal 20 changes operating modes in accordance with an explicit mode change operation by a store clerk, even in the case of an explicit mode change operation, the operation may be restricted (prohibited) depending on the operating mode before the change (current operating mode), the operating mode to which the change is to be made, the operating conditions, etc.

[0189] The operation mode of the POS terminal 20 may be scheduled according to the working status of the store clerk (working status, working schedule, and working schedule). However, depending on the operating mode before the transition (current operating mode), the operating mode after the transition, the operating status, etc., there may be cases where the operation mode is controlled according to the schedule and cases where the operation mode is not controlled according to the schedule.

[0190] (About switching operation modes) When switching the operation mode, the POS terminal 20 may display a message indicating that the operation mode is being switched on at least one of the customer display unit 205 or the store clerk display unit 210. For example, when switching from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode), a message such as "Switching to accounting-only mode" may be displayed on the customer display unit 205 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., several seconds) when switching (or before switching). Note that after switching the operation mode, a message indicating that the operation mode has been switched may be displayed.

[0191] The POS terminal 20 may be configured to switch to the double scan mode when a store clerk logs in while in the full self-service mode when the store clerk is not logged in. Alternatively, when a store clerk logs in, it may be determined whether to maintain the full self-service mode, switch to the normal mode, or switch to the double scan mode according to an operation (e.g., a button operation) by the store clerk.

[0192] That is, when the POS terminal 20 is in the full self-service mode in which the clerk has not logged in, and the clerk logs in, the POS terminal 20 may display a button for maintaining the full self-service mode, a button for switching to the normal mode, and a button for switching to the double scan mode, and control the operation mode after login depending on which button is operated. For example, when a customer requests assistance with product registration to leave everything to the clerk from that point on (when a clerk is called), the clerk operates a button for switching to the normal mode after logging in, when a customer requests assistance with product registration to leave some of the product registration to the clerk from that point on (when a clerk is called), the clerk operates a button for switching to the double scan mode after logging in, and when the customer logs in for some reason (for example, to check the processing status, etc.) but wishes to register himself or does not need the assistance of a clerk (or when the customer only logs in temporarily and cannot support the customer), the clerk operates a button for maintaining the full self-service mode after logging in. If the full self-service mode is maintained after the store clerk logs in, from the viewpoint of privacy, etc., the product names and the like of the products registered by the customer may not be displayed on the store clerk's display unit 210. However, information that does not significantly affect privacy, etc. (such as the cumulative total amount being registered) may be displayed. If the cumulative total amount being registered is displayed, the store clerk can, for example, appropriately check the right to a lottery (whether or not the purchase amount has exceeded a predetermined amount, etc.), and therefore prepare for the lottery in advance.

[0193] Whether or not to display the product name, etc. of a product registered by a customer on the store clerk display unit 210 in full self-service mode when the store clerk is logged in may be set by at least one of the store clerk side (store clerk display unit 210) or the customer side (customer display unit 205).

[0194] The POS terminal 20 is cleared from the logged-in state (changes from logged-in state to logged-out state) based on an explicit operation (logout operation) by the store clerk. Instead of or in addition to an explicit operation by the store clerk, the logged-in state may be cleared when a predetermined time (for example, which can be set for each terminal) has passed since the last operation by the store clerk (when no operation has been performed for the predetermined time).

[0195] The above-mentioned hibernation state (pause mode) and the logout state may be the same. In other words, the above-mentioned logout operation is the operation of the pause button. However, the hibernation state and the logout state may be considered to be different states. For example, the hibernation state (pause mode) may be considered to be part of the login state (a state to which the device transitions when the pause button is operated in the login state). If the hibernation state and the logout state are considered to be different states, the logout operation is a different operation from the operation of the pause button.

[0196] However, for products that require the intervention of a store clerk (for example, products that need to be heated in a microwave or products that a store clerk takes out (meat buns, cigarettes, etc.)), the store clerk must be notified of the product, so the product may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 regardless of the above setting. In addition, for products that require age authentication (for example, cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, etc.), the store clerk must be notified of the product, so the product may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 regardless of the above setting. Whether or not a product requires the intervention of a store clerk may be determined in advance for each product.

[0197] (About the switch button) In the above embodiment, the mode switching button BT50 is displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, but may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. Also, instead of pressing the mode switching button BT50 displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, the operation mode may be switched by operating the key operation unit 211. When the operation mode of the other POS terminal 20 is switched by operating the key operation unit 211, and the POS terminal or operation mode to be switched can be selected, the POS terminal or operation mode to be selected may be displayed as a button on the clerk-side display unit 210 so that the clerk can select it, or the other POS terminal or operation mode may be assigned to a key on the key operation unit 211 so that the other POS terminal or operation mode can be selected by operating the assigned key on the key operation unit 211.

[0198] (About the printing department) In the above, the POS terminal 20 is provided with one printing unit 213 that can be freely rotatably changed in the direction (direction of the medium issuing port) from the clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the clerk side, but it may also be provided with two printing units with a medium issuing port on each side. In other words, instead of one printing unit 213 that can be freely rotatably changed in the direction of the medium issuing port, the POS terminal 20 may be provided with a clerk-side printing unit with a medium issuing port on the clerk side and a customer-side printing unit with a medium issuing port on the customer side separately.

[0199] (About the scanner part) In the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is a type that is held by an operator (a store clerk, a customer) and brought close to an object (such as a product) to recognize identification information, but it may be of another type. For example, it may be a fixed type that recognizes an object by bringing it close. The same applies to the store clerk-side scanner unit 212.

[0200] (Regarding analysis, etc.) In the POS system 1, an electronic journal may be stored and utilized for various analyses. The electronic journal may include various information such as product information and registration information, and other output information (including information about customers). For example, the POS terminal 20 (or the store controller 10) may store an electronic journal for each transaction and analyze the operation status of each operation mode (for example, the operation time of each mode by time period and day of the week, by person in charge, or unconditionally) and the registration status of the clerk and customer in the double scan mode (the ratio of the number of product registrations of the clerk and customer, etc. This may be by clerk, or by customer if the customer's attributes (gender and age) can be grasped based on the membership number, etc.). The analysis results may be output to a list, etc.

[0201] In addition, by storing in the electronic journal, for example, the registration start time (in seconds) of the first item in each transaction and the start time of displaying the sub-page, it may be possible to analyze the time required by operation mode (for example, by operation mode and number of items purchased, etc.) (for example, the time required until the registration process is completed (until the sub-page starts to be displayed)).

[0202] (About other indications) Also, the POS terminal 20 may display, for example, information related to errors (for example, a warning about change, a warning about paper, information about calling a store clerk, etc.). Also, by transmitting and receiving information via the LAN 11, information related to other POS terminals 20 may be displayed instead of or in addition to the information related to the POS terminal 20 in question. Also, when displaying information related to other POS terminals 20, the information may be displayed according to the position of the other POS terminals 20 (positional relationship with the POS terminal 20 in question).

[0203] Each POS terminal 20 may refer to information indicating its positional relationship with the other POS terminals 20 (for example, each POS terminal 20 itself may store and refer to the information indicating the positional relationship, or the store controller 10 may store the information indicating the positional relationship, and each POS terminal 20 may access the store controller 10 and refer to the information indicating the positional relationship), and perform display according to the position of the other POS terminals 20. Alternatively, the display position may be determined in advance for each of the other POS terminals 20.

[0204] For example, the left and right display positions may be different depending on the arrangement of the POS terminals 20. As an example, when the first POS terminal 20-1 is arranged on the left side (left side as seen from the store clerk side) of the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3 is arranged on the right side (right side as seen from the store clerk side) of the second POS terminal 20-2 (that is, when seen from the store clerk side display unit 210 side, the first POS terminal 20-1 is arranged on the left side, the second POS terminal 20-2 is arranged in the left-right center, and the third POS terminal 20-3 is arranged on the right side), the store clerk side display unit 210 of the second POS terminal 20-2 arranged in the left-right center may display information about the first POS terminal 20-1 located on the left side of the second POS terminal 20-2 on the left side of the screen, and information about the third POS terminal 20-3 located on the right side of the second POS terminal 20-2 on the right side of the screen.

[0205] Also, on the store clerk display unit 210 of the first POS terminal 20-1 arranged on the left side, information on the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3 located on the right side of the first POS terminal 20-1 may be displayed on the right side of the screen. For example, information on the third POS terminal 20-3 located farther from the first POS terminal 20-1 may be displayed further to the right than information on the second POS terminal 20-2 located closer to the first POS terminal 20-1. Similarly, on the store clerk display unit 210 of the third POS terminal 20-3 arranged on the right side, information on the first POS terminal 20-1 and the second POS terminal 20-2 located on the left side of the third POS terminal 20-3 may be displayed on the left side of the screen. For example, information on the first POS terminal 20-1 located farther from the third POS terminal 20-3 may be displayed further to the left than information on the second POS terminal 20-2 located closer to the first POS terminal 20-1.

[0206] 1 is a display example when three POS terminals 20 are installed in the store, but the same may be true when there are two or four or more POS terminals. In the above, the current operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is notified (displayed), but the current operation modes of the other POS terminals 20 may also be notified (displayed) by acquiring information on the operation modes of the other POS terminals 20 via the LAN 11, for example.

[0207] The program for implementing the POS system 1 and the POS terminal 20 described above may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read and executed by the computer system. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that hold the program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) in a computer system that becomes a server or client when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. The "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be for implementing part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file (differential program). [Explanation of symbols]

[0208] 1. POS system 10…Store Controller 20…POS terminal 201…CPU 202...ROM 203...RAM 204...Hard disk 205…Customer side display section 206…Customer side scanner section 208…Card payment department 209…Change machine 210…Staff side display section 211...Key operation section 212…Clerk side scanner 213…Printing Department 214...Audio output unit 215…Communications Department

Claims

1. A product sales data processing device that operates in one of a plurality of modes and has a switching means for switching from a mode in which a customer registers products and makes a payment to another mode, The switching means is a first switching means for switching a mode of the device itself in response to an instruction from another device; a second switching means for switching a mode of the device in response to an instruction from the device; Preparation, The first switching means switches the mode in response to registration data transmitted from another device, the second switching means switches the mode in response to a mode transition operation by a store clerk; A product sales data processing device comprising:

2. The first switching means switches modes before executing a settlement process using the registered data.

2. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1.

3. The first switching means prohibits mode switching when registration data is stored in the device itself.

2. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1.

4. A program for causing a computer to function as a product sales data processing device that operates in one of a plurality of modes and is switchable from a mode in which a customer registers products and makes a payment to another mode, The computer, a first switching means for switching a mode of the device itself in response to an instruction from another device; a second switching means for switching a mode of the device in response to an instruction from the device; Functioning as a The first switching means switches the mode in response to registration data transmitted from another device, the second switching means switches the mode in response to a mode transition operation by a store clerk; A program characterized by:

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