Registration device

Abstract

To provide a POS system capable of reducing a settlement time of a customer.SOLUTION: A POS system includes a registration device that registers a commodity to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices that perform settlement processing by the customer being operated based on registration data of the commodity. The registration device includes transmission means for transmitting information on a settlement method using any or all of a cash, a credit card and electronic money for settling a payment in settlement processing of the customer in one settlement device of the plurality of settlement devices. The settlement device includes settlement means for receiving information on a settlement method and performing the settlement processing on the basis of the received settlement method.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a registration device. [Background technology]

[0002] POS systems in which customers themselves perform operations at the time of payment when purchasing products include a registration device that registers data related to the transaction for the product the customer wishes to purchase, and a payment device that the customer operates to perform payment processing based on the registered data. Patent Document 1 describes a POS system equipped with such a registration device and payment device.

[0003] In the POS system described in Patent Document 1, first, a registration device issues a settlement receipt, which is then handed to the customer. This settlement receipt has information required for settlement regarding the products to be purchased (e.g., information indicating the total purchase amount) printed, for example, as a two-dimensional or one-dimensional code. Next, the customer uses the settlement receipt to operate the settlement device and perform the settlement process. For example, the customer has the two-dimensional or one-dimensional code or the like read by a reader on the settlement device, and then performs payment operations such as inserting cash or a credit card. The settlement device executes the settlement process according to the read two-dimensional or one-dimensional code or the like and the customer's payment operation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-158993 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the POS system described in Patent Document 1, in order to use the data registered in the registration device to perform settlement processing at the settlement device, the customer had to perform a certain operation, which was time-consuming, and therefore there was an issue that settlement took a long time.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a POS system, a settlement device, a program, and a payment method that can reduce the time required for customers to settle their payments. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer based on the operation of a store clerk, and a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform payment processing based on the registration data of the products, the POS system being characterized in that the selection means allows the customer to select a payment method of cash, credit card, electronic money, or a combination of both, to settle the price in the payment processing at either the registration device or the settlement device, the registration device comprising: a transmission means that transmits at least the registration data of the products so that the payment processing for the customer can be performed at one of the plurality of settlement devices, the settlement device comprising: a receiving means that receives the transmitted registration data of the products, and a payment means that executes the payment processing based on the received registration data of the products, and when the selection means is executed in the registration device, the settlement device receives the selected payment method by the receiving means and executes the payment means based on the received registration data of the products and the received payment method, and when the selection means is not executed in the registration device, the selection means is executed in the settlement device and the payment means is executed based on the received registration data of the products and the selected payment method.

[0008] According to the above aspect, the payment method can be selected at the settlement device or can be declared at the registration device, which reduces the number of operations required by the customer in the settlement process and shortens the settlement time.

[0009] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the settlement device is equipped with an indicator light that displays multiple colors, and the indicator light indicates that the settlement device is the selected device or that the settlement device is operable.

[0010] According to the above aspect, the indicator light notifies the customer which settlement device is the one where the settlement should be carried out, so that the customer can immediately tell which settlement device to go to.

[0011] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is characterized in that in the above-mentioned POS system, when the settlement device starts payment processing based on the payment method information, it sends a message to the registration device that sent the registration data indicating that payment is in progress.

[0012] According to the above aspect, the registration device can display information indicating that payment is in progress as information indicating the status of the settlement device that has started the payment process.

[0013] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the registration device is equipped with a display means for displaying that the settlement device is free when the settlement device is not in use, and for displaying that the settlement device is in use when the settlement device is in use.

[0014] According to the above aspect, the status of the settlement device can be grasped on the registration device side.

[0015] Moreover, one aspect of the present invention is a settlement device in a POS system having a registration device that registers a product to be purchased by a customer based on the operation of a store clerk and transmits the product registration data to one of a plurality of settlement devices; a plurality of settlement devices that receive the product registration data transmitted from the registration device and allow the customer to operate the registration device themselves to settle the price based on the received registration data; and a selection means that allows the customer to select a payment method of cash, credit card, electronic money, or a combination of both to settle the price in either the registration device or the settlement device, wherein the settlement device is equipped with a payment means that executes a payment process for the price based on the received product registration data, and when the selection means is executed in the registration device, it receives the payment method selected in the registration device and executes the payment means based on the received product registration data and the received payment method, and when the selection means is not executed in the registration device, it executes the selection means in the settlement device and executes the payment means based on the received product registration data and the selected payment method.

[0016] According to the above aspect, the payment method can be selected at the settlement device or can be declared at the registration device, which reduces the number of operations required by the customer in the settlement process and shortens the settlement time.

[0017] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the settlement device is provided with an indicator light that displays multiple colors, and the indicator light indicates that the settlement device is the selected device or that the settlement device is available for operation.

[0018] According to the above aspect, the indicator light notifies the customer which settlement device is the one where the settlement should be carried out, so that the customer can immediately tell which settlement device to go to.

[0019] In addition, one aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned settlement device, when the payment means is started, a signal indicating that payment is in progress is sent to the registration device that transmitted the registration data for the product.

[0020] According to the above aspect, the registration device can display information indicating that payment is in progress as information indicating the status of the settlement device that has started the payment process.

[0021] One aspect of the present invention is a program for a POS system that causes a first computer to function as a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer based on the operation of a store clerk, and causes a second computer to function as a plurality of settlement devices that perform a payment process by being operated by the customer based on the registration data of the products, the program causing either the first computer or the second computer to function as a selection means that allows a customer to select a payment method to be used in the payment process, such as cash, credit card, or electronic money, or a combination of these, and the first computer to transmit at least the registration data of the products so that the payment process for the customer can be performed in one of the plurality of settlement devices. and causing the second computer to function as a receiving means for receiving the transmitted product registration data and a payment means for executing payment processing based on the received product registration data, wherein when the selection means is executed in the first computer, the second computer receives the selected payment method by the receiving means and executes the payment means based on the received product registration data and the received payment method, and when the selection means is not executed in the first computer, the second computer executes the selection means in the second computer and executes the payment means based on the received product registration data and the selected payment method.

[0022] According to the above aspect, the payment method can be selected at the settlement device or can be declared at the registration device, which reduces the number of operations required by the customer in the settlement process and shortens the settlement time.

[0023] Moreover, one aspect of the present invention is a program for a settlement device in a POS system having a registration device that registers a product to be purchased by a customer based on the operation of a store clerk and transmits the product registration data to one of a plurality of settlement devices, a plurality of settlement devices that receive the product registration data transmitted from the registration device and allow the customer to operate the settlement device themselves to settle the price based on the received registration data, and a selection means for selecting a payment method of cash, credit card, electronic money, or a combination of these, to settle the price in either the registration device or the settlement device, the program causing the settlement device to function as a payment means that executes a settlement process for the price based on the received product registration data, and when the selection means is executed in the registration device, receives the payment method selected in the registration device and executes the payment means based on the received product registration data and the received payment method, and when the selection means is not executed in the registration device, the program causes the selection means to execute the payment means in the settlement device and executes the payment means based on the received product registration data and the selected payment method.

[0024] According to the above aspect, the payment method can be selected at the settlement device or can be declared at the registration device, which reduces the number of operations required by the customer in the settlement process and shortens the settlement time.

[0025] Moreover, one aspect of the present invention is a payment method in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer based on the operation of a store clerk, and a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform payment processing based on the registration data of the products, the payment method comprising: a selection step in either the registration device or the settlement device, for selecting a payment method of cash, credit card, electronic money, or a combination of these to settle the price in the payment processing; a transmission step in the registration device, for transmitting at least the registration data of the products so that the payment processing for the customer can be performed at one of the plurality of settlement devices; a reception step in the settlement device, for receiving the transmitted registration data of the products; and a payment step in which the payment processing is performed based on the received registration data of the products, wherein if the selection step is performed in the registration device, the settlement device receives the payment method selected in the reception step and performs the payment step based on the received registration data of the products and the received payment method, and if the selection step is not performed in the registration device, the selection step is performed in the settlement device, and the payment step is performed based on the received registration data of the products and the selected payment method.

[0026] According to the above aspect, the payment method can be selected at the settlement device or can be declared at the registration device, which reduces the number of operations required by the customer in the settlement process and shortens the settlement time. Effect of the Invention

[0027] According to the present invention, the checkout time for customers can be reduced. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram of a POS system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a registration POS register 20 in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3]2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a settlement POS register 30 in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of a registration POS register 20 and a settlement POS register 30 shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a process flow in the POS system 1 of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a selection process of a destination settlement POS register in step S22 of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a destination settlement POS register in step S25 of FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a receipt on which a guide showing a settlement POS register is printed. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a settlement POS register that has transitioned to a standby state in step S26 of FIG. 5. [Figure 10] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the processing flow in the POS system 1 of FIG. [Figure 11] 1. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a process flow for suspending a settlement process in the process in the POS system 1 of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a button for suspending a settlement process, which is displayed on a settlement POS register. [Figure 13] FIG. 12 shows an example of a reserved receipt issued in step S29c of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an embodiment of a POS system according to the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, in this embodiment, the POS system 1 includes a store controller 10, a registration POS register 20, and three settlement POS registers 30. The store controller 10, the registration POS register 20, and the three settlement POS registers 30 are connected to each other via a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) 11.

[0030] The configuration of the POS system 1 shown in Fig. 1 is an example, and it is possible to provide a plurality of registration POS registers 20, to further increase the number of settlement POS registers 30, or to reduce the number of settlement POS registers 30 to two. Also, the store controller 10 does not necessarily need to be connected to the registration POS registers 20 and the settlement POS registers 30 via the LAN 11. In that case, data can be exchanged using power line communication that utilizes electrical wiring to achieve high-speed communication. It is also possible to omit the store controller 10 by having the registration POS register 20 have the functions of the store controller 10.

[0031] The store controller 10 is a computer that controls the POS system 1, and manages various information such as a product master. The store controller 10 appropriately transmits the latest product master to the registration POS register 20 and each settlement POS register 30. Here, the product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information, product name, and sales price of each product, and is appropriately updated.

[0032] The registration POS register 20 performs a process of registering data of products that a customer is going to purchase. The data is registered, for example, by reading a barcode attached to the product. For this reason, the registration POS register 20 is provided with a scanner that, for example, reads a barcode (product code) attached to the product that the customer is going to purchase by the operation of a store clerk. In this application, the data related to the products that is registered by the registration POS register 20 and used in the settlement process is called registration data. The registration data includes the amount of all the products to be purchased, i.e., the total amount, and the unit price and number of each product. The registration data may be identification information (code information, etc.) that calls up the amount of all the products to be purchased, i.e., the total amount, and the unit price and number of each product. In this case, the settlement POS register 30 may make a request to the store controller 10 or a registration POS register 20 having the function of the store controller 10 based on the above-mentioned identification information (code information, etc.) and receive the registration data. The registration POS register 20 also receives and manages status information from each settlement POS register 30.

[0033] Furthermore, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data is to be sent, according to the status information. At that time, the registration POS register 20 determines, based on the status information, which settlement POS register 30 the customer currently registering the product should use to settle the payment, so as to minimize the waiting time. That is, the registration POS register 20 selects the most suitable one from the multiple settlement POS registers 30. The registration POS register 20 selects, for example, an available settlement POS register 30. Alternatively, when all the settlement POS registers 30 are occupied by customers, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement device that is likely to become available first. Then, the registration POS register 20 transmits the registration data to the selected settlement POS register 30. A customer who wishes to purchase the product indicated by the registration data can operate the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data was sent and perform the settlement process by himself. The settlement process is a process in which the price of the product to be purchased is paid and settled selectively using cash, electronic money, credit card, etc.

[0034] The status information is information that indicates the progress of the settlement process in the settlement POS register 30. The progress is divided into states such as standby, settlement, issuing a receipt, available, pending accounting, and trouble. Based on this progress, the registration POS register 20 performs a determination process to determine which settlement POS register 30 to select. For example, the registration POS register 20 preferentially selects an available settlement POS register 30. If there is no available settlement POS register 30, it selects one that is issuing a receipt. The above three progress states, standby, settlement, and issuing a receipt, indicate the stage of the settlement process, and the progress state transitions from standby to settlement, and from settlement to issuing a receipt. Therefore, the receipt issuing state is more advanced than the settlement state, and if there is no available state, the settlement POS register 30 that is likely to become available the soonest can be selected by selecting one that is issuing a receipt.

[0035] Moreover, when the registration POS register 20 transmits the registration data currently being registered to the settlement POS register 30 selected as described above, the registration POS register 20 performs the following display process. For example, the registration POS register 20 displays the status information received from each settlement POS register 30 on a display screen such as a touch panel of the registration POS register 20. This display may be performed not only when transmitting the registration data, but also during the registration process or during free time, and may be updated continuously or as needed. Furthermore, when transmitting the registration data, the registration POS register 20 displays the information so that the store clerk or the customer can know which settlement POS register 30 the registration data has been transmitted to. For example, when the information is displayed to the store clerk, the store clerk can verbally inform the customer. In this case, the display method is arbitrary. For example, the status information of each settlement POS register 30 may be displayed on a touch panel or the like installed in the registration POS register 20 facing the store clerk, and the status information corresponding to the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data has been transmitted may be highlighted. Also, a guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30 may be displayed on a display unit facing the customer of the registration POS register 20. Also, a receipt indicating the corresponding settlement POS register 30 (for example, a numbered receipt with the number of the settlement POS register 30 printed thereon) may be issued and handed to the customer.

[0036] The selection of the checkout POS register 30 may be performed manually by a store clerk. For example, the store clerk may look at the status information, make a judgment, and select the checkout POS register 30 by pressing the button of the selected checkout POS register 30 on the touch panel. To help the store clerk make a judgment, the status information may be displayed with emphasis on checkout POS registers 30 that are available (or likely to be available).

[0037] The registration POS register 20 may also print all purchase details of the products purchased by the customer. In this case, the customer can check the registration details using the registration POS register 20 by looking at the printout before operating the checkout POS register 30 to carry out the checkout process.

[0038] On the other hand, the settlement POS register 30 is a device that customers operate to carry out settlement processing, and is equipped with payment devices such as an automatic change dispenser, a card reader (for credit cards or point cards, for example), and an RF (Radio Frequency) reader (for electronic money, for example). The settlement POS register 30 also transmits status information to the registration POS register 20 as necessary.

[0039] Furthermore, when the checkout POS register 30 receives the registration data from the registration POS register 20, it notifies (i.e., guides) the customer so that the customer knows that he or she should come to the checkout POS register 30. An example of such a notification is, for example, displaying text information such as a predetermined number on the entire screen of the display unit of the checkout POS register 30. This text information such as a number is information that the registration POS register 20 (or the store clerk operating the registration POS register 20) has notified to the customer separately. The customer then only needs to go to the checkout POS register 30 that displays the notified number, for example. Another example of such a notification is to guide the customer by turning on a predetermined lamp of the checkout POS register 30. For example, the lamp may be lit in a specific color, and the customer may go to the checkout POS register 30 of the specified color. Alternatively, the lamp may be blinking. Another example of such a notification is to display the member card number on the screen of the checkout POS register 30. This membership card number is read, for example, by the registration POS register 20. The customer goes to the settlement POS register 30 which reports his / her membership card number.

[0040] In addition, the settlement POS register 30 goes into a standby state after the notification. That is, after the notification, the settlement POS register 30 goes into a standby state for an instruction to start the settlement process corresponding to the received registration data. As an example of releasing the standby state, for example, when the customer touches the display screen of the settlement POS register 30 (or presses some button), the settlement process may be automatically started. Until the touch, nothing is displayed on the screen, or, for example, only a number is displayed as in the above notification example. Alternatively, the settlement POS register 30 may start the settlement process by detecting whether or not a customer approaches using a human detection sensor. In this case, too, the screen may be blank or display a number until detection. The settlement POS register 30 starts the settlement process when the human detection sensor detects the approach of a person. Alternatively, a camera may be used instead of the human detection sensor. For example, a camera may be installed in the settlement POS register 30 and the registration POS register 20, and the settlement process may be started only when the same person approaches by face recognition.

[0041] The flow of the settlement process for the settlement POS register 30 in the standby state can be carried out, for example, as follows. (1) First, the customer selects a payment method: cash, credit card, electronic money, etc., or a combination of the two. (2) Next, settlement is performed by inserting cash into the bill and coin insertion / removal slot of the settlement POS register 30, receiving change, reading a card with a card reader, etc. (3) Next, a receipt is issued using the printing unit of the settlement POS register 30. For example, a list of the purchased items, the total purchase amount, the received amount, the change, etc. are printed on the receipt. (4) Then, the settlement POS register 30 finishes the settlement process and becomes idle.

[0042] The payment method at the settlement POS register 30 may be declared at the registration POS register 20. In this case, the registration POS register 20 sends the payment method information to the settlement POS register 30, and the settlement POS register 30 starts the process from the operation (2) above.

[0043] Next, with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 4, an example of the configuration of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30 in Fig. 1 will be described. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the registration POS register 20. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the settlement POS register 30. And Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30.

[0044] 2, the registration POS register 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, a scanner unit 204, a display unit (for store clerk) 205, a display unit (for customer) 205a, an operation unit 206, a communication unit 207, a buzzer 208, and a printing unit 209. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0045] The ROM 202 is a read-only memory and stores programs in advance. The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the registration POS register 20 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 202 .

[0046] The scanner unit 204 optically reads the barcode (product code) attached to the product. The RAM 203 is a read / write memory that can be used at any time, and stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores product information based on a barcode read by the scanner unit 204, status information received from the checkout POS register 30, etc. Also, for example, the RAM 203 may store a history of operation of the operation buttons.

[0047] Display unit (for store clerk) 205 and display unit (for customer) 205a display various information. For example, display unit (for store clerk) 205 and display unit (for customer) 205a display information acquired from the product master (e.g., product name, price, etc.). Display unit (for store clerk) 205 is a touch panel (e.g., liquid crystal touch panel) and displays various information for the store clerk. Furthermore, display unit (for store clerk) 205 accepts operational input for pre-registered product information (product code, etc.) by operating operation buttons (preset buttons) displayed in an area within the screen.

[0048] The operation unit 206 includes various operation buttons (subtotal key, current total key, number entry key, correction key, preset key, etc.) for operating the registration POS register 20. For example, when an operation button (preset key) is operated, the operation unit 206 accepts an operation input regarding product information (product code, etc.) that is set and registered in advance in the preset key.

[0049] The communication unit 207 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11 . The buzzer 208 generates a buzzer sound when it is necessary for a store clerk to confirm an operation.

[0050] The printing unit 209 prints information indicating the registration data etc. as necessary. However, in this embodiment, printing of the registration data can be omitted. As described above, the printing unit 209 may print on the receipt (printing medium) information informing the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data (accounting data) selected according to the status information is to be sent.

[0051] The external configuration of the scanner unit 204, display unit (for store clerk) 205, operation unit 206, and printing unit 209 is shown in FIG.

[0052] 3, the settlement POS register 30 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a scanner unit 304, a display unit 305, an operation unit 306, a communication unit 307, a buzzer 308, a printing unit 309, a settlement unit 310, a sign pole 311, and a human detection sensor 312. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0053] The ROM 302 is a read-only memory that stores programs. The CPU 301 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the settlement POS register 30 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 302 .

[0054] The RAM 303 is a memory that can be read and written at any time and that stores various information. For example, the RAM 303 stores product master data acquired from the store controller 10, and purchase details of products indicated by two-dimensional codes or barcodes read by the scanner unit 304. An example of a case where the scanner unit 304 reads a two-dimensional code or barcode is when the registration POS register 20 cannot acquire status information of the settlement POS register 30 for some reason (for example, when a problem is occurring), and therefore the registration POS register 20 prints a two-dimensional code or barcode used for accounting on an accounting slip.

[0055] The scanner unit 304 optically reads a barcode (membership code) attached to, for example, a membership card or the like.

[0056] The display unit 305 displays various information on the screen in response to control from the CPU 301. In addition, the display unit 305 stores in the RAM 303, for each operation button, a history of operations of the operation buttons displayed on the screen (for example, the number of operations, the order of operations, etc.).

[0057] The operation unit 306 includes various operation buttons (such as a correction key and a preset key) for operating the settlement POS register 30. For example, the operation unit 306 accepts corrections to operation inputs by operating the operation button (correction key).

[0058] The communication unit 307 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11. For example, the communication unit 307 connects to the store controller 10 and acquires the latest product master data from the store controller 10.

[0059] A buzzer 308 generates a buzzer sound to notify the user of an error if an error occurs. A printing unit 309 prints and issues a payment receipt for the customer to take home when the payment process (i.e., the payment of the purchase amount) is completed.

[0060] The settlement unit 310 is configured to include a change dispenser, a credit card reader, an electronic money reader, etc., and their respective control units, and settlement processing is performed using the settlement unit 310 with cash, credit, and electronic money. The settlement unit 310 executes settlement with cash using the change dispenser, and outputs the result of the settlement (for example, information indicating whether the settlement has been established) to the CPU 301 via the bus. The change dispenser includes a bill slot for inserting and ejecting bills, a coin slot for inserting coins, and a change outlet for ejecting change. The settlement unit 310 also executes settlement with credit, and outputs the result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via the port and the bus. The settlement unit 310 also executes settlement with electronic money, and outputs the result of the settlement to the CPU 301 via the bus.

[0061] The sign pole 311 has indicator lights of multiple colors, and by turning on or blinking these indicator lights, it notifies the user that the settlement POS register 30 is the selected device or that it can be operated. The human detection sensor 312 is a sensor that detects the presence of a person (customer) within a predetermined range in front of the settlement POS register 30.

[0062] The external configuration of the scanner unit 304, display unit 305, operation unit 306, printing unit 309, settlement unit 310, and sign pole 311 is shown in FIG.

[0063] Next, referring to Fig. 5, an operation example of the POS system 1 described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4 will be described. In the operation example shown in Fig. 5, it is assumed that predetermined data transmission and reception has been completed between the store controller 10 and the registration POS register 20 and each settlement POS register 30. Therefore, only the processing in the registration POS register 20 and each settlement POS register 30 and the data exchange therebetween are shown. Also, in Fig. 5, the three settlement POS registers 30 shown in Fig. 1 are shown as settlement POS registers 30a to 30c. Also, in the operation example of Fig. 5, it is assumed that all three settlement POS registers 30a to 30c are empty at the start.

[0064] Now, assuming that the three settlement POS registers 30a-30c each transmit status information indicating that they are free to the registration POS register 20 in steps S11, S14, and S17, the registration POS register 20 receives the status information (steps S12, S15, and S18).Then, the registration POS register 20 stores the status information of each settlement POS register 30a-30c in a predetermined storage area of ​​the RAM 203 (steps S13, S16, and S19).

[0065] Next, in step S20, it is assumed that a customer visits the registration POS register 20, and the product registration process is started when the store clerk performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 206. Thereafter, the scanner unit 204, the display unit 205, and the operation unit 206 are used to register the product data that the customer wishes to purchase. Then, in step S21, it is assumed that the product registration process is completed, and the store clerk performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 206, thereby completing the product registration process. In step S21, registration data (accounting data) to be sent to one of the payment POS registers 30 is generated.

[0066] Here, the registration POS register 20 performs a process of selecting the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data is to be sent (step S22). In step S22, the registration POS register 20 refers to the status information of each of the settlement POS registers 30a to 30c stored in a predetermined storage area of ​​the RAM 203, and selects the settlement POS register that has progressed the most in the settlement process (i.e., is free or is most likely to become free soon) based on each status information. In this example, it is assumed that the settlement POS register 30a was selected in step S22.

[0067] Next, the registration POS register 20 transmits the registration data to the settlement POS register 30a, which is the destination of the registration data set in step S22 (step S23). In response, the settlement POS register 30a receives the registration data (step S24). The registration POS register 20 that transmitted the registration data in step S23 displays an indication that the settlement POS register that transmitted the registration data is the settlement POS register 30a (step S25). Meanwhile, the settlement POS register 30a that received the registration data in step S24 notifies the reception of the registration data and transitions to a standby state for settlement processing (step S26).

[0068] Next, the settlement POS register 30a transmits status information indicating that it is in a standby state (step S27). The registration POS register 20 receives the status information from the settlement POS register 30a (step S28). The registration POS register 20 updates the status information of the settlement POS register 30a stored in a predetermined storage area of ​​the RAM 203 from an idle state to a standby state (step S29).

[0069] Here, when a customer arrives at the settlement POS register 30a and performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 306 or the human approach is detected by the human detection sensor 312, the settlement process is started (step S30). In the settlement process started in step S30, the operation method and the like are displayed on the display unit 305, and the customer selects a payment method and makes a payment using the selected payment method according to the customer's operation. When the settlement POS register 30a starts the settlement process in step S30, it transmits status information indicating that a payment is being made (step S31). The registration POS register 20 receives the status information from the settlement POS register 30a (step S32). The status information of the settlement POS register 30a stored in a predetermined storage area of ​​the RAM 203 is updated from a standby state to a state of being settled (step S33).

[0070] Next, when the settlement process using the specified settlement method is completed at the settlement POS register 30a (step S34), the settlement POS register 30a starts the receipt issuing process (step S35). When the settlement POS register 30a starts the receipt issuing process in step S35, it transmits status information indicating that a receipt is being issued (step S36). The registration POS register 20 receives the status information from the settlement POS register 30a (step S37). The status information of the settlement POS register 30a stored in a specified storage area of ​​the RAM 203 is updated from settlement in progress to receipt issuing (step S38).

[0071] Next, when the settlement POS register 30a finishes issuing a receipt (step S39), it transitions to an idle state and transmits status information indicating that it is idle (step S40). The registration POS register 20 receives the status information from the settlement POS register 30a (step S41). The status information of the settlement POS register 30a stored in a specified storage area of ​​the RAM 203 is updated from receipt issuing to idle (step S42).

[0072] As described above, in the POS system 1 of this embodiment, one of the settlement POS registers 30 is automatically selected by the registration POS register 20, and settlement processing is performed according to the customer's operation using the settlement POS register 30.

[0073] Next, referring to FIG. 6, an example of the selection process of the settlement POS register as the destination in step S22 in FIG. 5 will be described. Here, the progress status represented by the status information is assumed to be one of five statuses: waiting, settlement in progress, receipt issuing, available, and trouble occurring. As shown in FIG. 6, the registration POS register 20 first determines whether or not there is an available settlement POS register 30 by referring to the status information of the settlement POS registers 30a to 30c stored in a predetermined storage area of ​​the RAM 203 (step S101). If there is an available settlement POS register 30 (Yes in step S101), one of the available settlement POS registers 30 is selected (step S102). Then, in step S103, the selected settlement POS register 30 is set as the destination, and the selection process is terminated.

[0074] On the other hand, if there are no idle settlement POS registers 30 (No in step S101), it is determined whether or not there are any settlement POS registers 30 currently printing receipts (step S104). If there are settlement POS registers 30 currently printing receipts (Yes in step S104), one of the settlement POS registers 30 currently printing receipts is selected (step S105). Then, in step S103, the selected settlement POS register 30 is set as the transmission destination, and the selection process ends.

[0075] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S104 is that there is no settlement POS register 30 printing a receipt (No in step S104), it is determined whether there is a settlement POS register 30 in the middle of a settlement (step S106). If there is a settlement POS register 30 in the middle of a settlement (Yes in step S106), one of the settlement POS registers 30 in the middle of a settlement is selected (step S107). Then, the settlement POS register 30 selected in step S103 is set as the destination, and the selection process ends.

[0076] On the other hand, if the result of the judgment in step S106 is that there is no settlement POS register 30 in the middle of settlement (No in step S106), it is judged whether or not there is a settlement POS register 30 in a standby state (step S108). If there is a settlement POS register 30 in a standby state (Yes in step S108), one of the standby settlement POS registers 30 is selected (step S109). Then, in step S103, the selected settlement POS register 30 is set as the transmission destination, and the selection process is terminated.

[0077] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S108 is that there is no settlement POS register 30 in a standby state (No in step S108), in this example, this means that all settlement POS registers 30 are in a troubled state, so the information indicating the selection result that the destination settlement POS register could not be determined is set (step S110).

[0078] In addition, when two or more settlement POS registers 30 are selected in step S102, S105, S107, or S109, one of them is selected by any method. For example, when the distance between the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30 varies, the settlement POS register 30 with the shortest distance can be selected. In addition, when some of multiple customers in the settlement process have a membership card or the like and the other do not, for example, a device used by a customer with a membership card or the like can be selected. This is because it is considered that a customer with a membership card is relatively likely to be familiar with operation. In addition, when information regarding age can be registered in the registration POS register 20, it is possible to select a device other than the one used by the customer (i.e., avoid the device) depending on the age, for example, when only a child is using the device.

[0079] Next, referring to FIG. 7, a display example in the display process of the destination settlement POS register in step S25 in FIG. 5 will be described. FIG. 7 shows a display example of the display unit (for store clerk) 205 of the registration POS register 20. In the display example of FIG. 7, buttons 2051-2053 representing status information of the settlement POS registers 30a-30c are displayed together with an icon for selecting a product (vegetables in this example), information indicating the amount, the number, etc. However, the settlement POS registers 30a-30c are displayed as devices 1-3, respectively. Furthermore, the settlement POS register 30a, whose status information is in the empty state and selected in the process of step S22, is displayed in a different form from the other buttons (for example, by flashing or displaying in a different color), as shown by shading. In the example of FIG. 7, by changing this form, it is shown that the settlement POS register 30a has been selected as the destination.

[0080] As described above, the registration POS register 20 may display, on the display unit (for customer) 205a, a guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30. For example, the registration POS register 20 may display, on the display unit (for customer) 205a, buttons 2051 to 2053 indicating status information of the settlement POS registers 30a to 30c shown in Fig. 7.

[0081] As described above, the guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30 may be printed on the receipt handed to the customer. Fig. 8 shows an example of a receipt (a numbered receipt with the number of the settlement POS register 30 printed on it, a bill, or a POS register guide receipt) on which a guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30 is printed. In Fig. 8, the text "Please settle at register number 1" (see reference numeral 3051) is printed on the receipt as a guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30. Here, this "register number 1" corresponds to, for example, device 1 (settlement POS register 30a) in the display example of Fig. 7.

[0082] Next, referring to Fig. 9, a display example of the display unit 305 of the settlement POS register 30 that has transitioned to a standby state for settlement processing in step S26 of Fig. 5 will be described. Fig. 9 shows a display example of the display unit 305 of the settlement POS register 30. In the display example of Fig. 9, together with information indicating that it is a "settlement machine" and information indicating a standby state ("on standby"), information capable of identifying a customer making a settlement based on the registration data received by this settlement POS register 30 (e.g., a number, "waiting number") is displayed in order of the transaction (in the order of receipt of the registration data). Note that the information capable of identifying a customer (e.g., a number) may be notified to the customer by being displayed on the display unit (for customer) 205a of the registration POS register 20, for example, or may be notified to the customer by being printed on a receipt handed to the customer.

[0083] Next, with reference to Fig. 10, another operation example of the POS system 1 described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4 will be described. In the operation example shown in Fig. 10, the status information of each settlement POS register 30 is different from the operation example described with reference to Fig. 5. That is, in the operation example of Fig. 10, settlement POS register 30a is in the process of settlement, settlement POS register 30b is in the process of issuing a receipt, and settlement POS register 30c is in the process of settlement.

[0084] In the example shown in FIG. 10, in steps S51-S59, the status information of each of the settlement POS registers 30a-30c is updated in the same manner as in steps S11-S19 in FIG. 5. Then, in steps S60-S61, the product registration process is performed in the same manner as in steps S20-S21 in FIG. 5, and then in step S62, the settlement POS register 30b that is issuing a receipt is selected as the destination device. In this example, the settlement POS registers 30a and 30c are in the middle of a settlement, so it is determined that the settlement POS register 30b that is issuing a receipt is the most advanced in the process. Thereafter, in steps S63-S82, the registration data transmission process and settlement process are performed using the settlement POS register 30b in the same manner as in steps S23-S42 in FIG. 5. However, the notification and transition to standby state process in step S66 is performed after the receipt that was being issued when the status information was sent in step S54 has been completed.

[0085] The registration data transmission process in step S63 may be temporarily suspended depending on the status information of the settlement POS register 30. For example, the registration data may be transmitted only to the settlement POS register 30 that is vacant or issuing a receipt, and the registration data transmission may be suspended for the settlement POS register 30 that is in the process of settlement or in standby until the status information indicates that a receipt is being issued. In this case, the customer may temporarily wait near the registration POS register 20, for example. This prevents the customer from being guided to the settlement POS register 30 when the settlement POS register 30 has not notified that it is a non-selected device. In this case, the registration POS register 20 may issue a numbered receipt to the customer temporarily waiting at the standby position and hand it to the customer. Then, the registration data of the customer may be transmitted to the settlement POS register 30 whose status information indicates that it is vacant or issuing a receipt, and the number printed on the numbered receipt may be displayed on the display unit of the settlement POS register 30 that has received the data to guide the customer.

[0086] In the above-mentioned POS system 1, which is composed of the registration POS register 20 for registering products purchased by the customer and the settlement POS register 30 for the customer to operate and settle the price of the products registered in the registration POS register 20, when the customer remembers (realizes) the product he or she forgot to buy at the time of payment (settlement), the customer is in the settlement POS register 30 in a state where the product has been registered in the registration POS register 20. Therefore, the customer may have to first settle the payment at the settlement POS register 30, and then line up again in the registration queue at the registration POS register 20 to purchase the product he or she forgot to buy. In this case, the same procedure must be repeated until the customer can purchase the forgotten item, which is troublesome and bothersome for the customer. In addition, the customer may give up on purchasing the forgotten item, which may have a negative impact on the store's sales and may leave a bad impression on the store.

[0087] Therefore, in the POS system 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to suspend the settlement process at the settlement POS register 30, and to additionally register product registration data to the suspended registration data.

[0088] Next, referring to Fig. 11, an example of the operation of the checkout POS register 30, which has received the registration data and is in a standby state, suspending the checkout process based on the registration data and additionally registering the registration data of the product to the suspended registration data will be described. As described above, a case where a customer suspends the checkout process is, for example, when the registration data of a product to be purchased registered in the registration POS register 20 is transmitted to the checkout POS register 30 and is in a standby state, and the customer realizes that there is a product that they forgot to buy and suspends the checkout process. By suspending the checkout process, the customer can add (register) the product as a product to be purchased before carrying out the checkout process.

[0089] For example, a button such as "settlement pending" is provided on the screen display of the display unit 305 of the settlement POS register 30. When this "settlement pending" button is pressed, the settlement POS register 30 places the registered data of the customer (settlement processing based on the registered data) on hold.

[0090] The operation example shown in Fig. 11 differs from the operation example shown in Fig. 5 in that a process of suspending the settlement process is added after the settlement POS register 30a transitions to a standby state in step S26 in Fig. 5. Note that in Fig. 11, processes corresponding to those in Fig. 5 are given the same reference numerals, and their explanations will be omitted. Also, the operations following "start settlement process" in step S30 are the same as those explained with reference to Fig. 5, and are not illustrated.

[0091] The checkout POS register 30a goes into a waiting state for checkout (step S26), transmits status information (step S27), and then displays payment information for checkout including payment amount information on the display unit 305 in response to, for example, a customer's operation, and displays a button for inputting "checkout pending" to hold the checkout. The checkout POS register 30a then determines whether or not the checkout has started (step S29a). If it is determined in step S29a that the checkout has started, the checkout POS register 30a proceeds to step S30 and starts the checkout as described with reference to FIG. 5. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S29a that the checkout has not started, the checkout POS register 30a determines whether or not the "checkout pending" button has been pressed (step S29b).

[0092] If it is determined in step S29b that the "settlement pending" button has not been pressed, the settlement POS register 30a returns to step S29a and repeats steps S29a and S29b until it is determined that the payment process has started or that the "settlement pending" button has been pressed.

[0093] If it is determined in step S29b that the "Suspend payment" button has been pressed, the settlement POS register 30a issues a suspended receipt including information that can identify (specify) the registered data for which the settlement process has been suspended (step S29c). For example, a one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code for recalling the registered data for which the settlement process has been suspended is printed on this suspended receipt. It should be noted that if the registration POS register 20 or the settlement POS register 30 is unable to communicate due to some kind of trouble and a transaction receipt has already been issued, then there is no need to issue a receipt.

[0094] The settlement POS register 30a also performs a process of returning the registration data for which the settlement process has been put on hold to the registration POS register 20 that registered (sent) the registration data. For example, the settlement POS register 30a transmits the registration data that has been put on hold (held registration data) to the registration POS register 20 that registered (sent) the registration data (step S29d). The registration POS register 20 receives the held registration data transmitted from the settlement POS register 30a (step S29e).

[0095] The registration data that has been put on hold will remain on hold until it is recalled. For example, a customer who has forgotten to buy something will hand over their shopping basket to a store clerk, then take the forgotten item to the registration POS register 20 and have the forgotten item additionally registered. In response to the customer's request to additionally register an item (step S29j), the registration POS register 20 returns the process to step S12, re-recalls the registration data for which the payment process has been put on hold (the reserved registration data), and adds the registration data of the item to be additionally registered (the item that was forgotten to be purchased) to that registration data. As a result, the "forgotten item" additionally registered by the registration POS register 20 is additionally registered within the reserved registration data that has been put on hold.

[0096] The registration POS register 20 then transmits the additionally registered registration data to the settlement POS register selected based on each status information. The customer can then either call up the registered data using the reserved receipt, or go back to the settlement POS register 30 designated by the registration POS register 20 and make the payment themselves.

[0097] In this way, the checkout POS register 30 executes the processes (holding means) of steps S29c and S29d to hold the checkout process based on the registration data received and in a standby state. The registration POS register 20 also executes the process of step S29e to receive the held registration data for which the checkout process has been held, and executes the process of additionally registering the registration data of the "forgotten item" to the received held registration data in response to a request from the customer to register an additional item (step S29j). In this way, in the POS system 1 using the checkout POS register 30 that the customer operates to perform the checkout, even if the customer has forgotten to purchase an item, the customer can add the item to the registration data for which the checkout POS register 30 performs the checkout process.

[0098] In addition, when the registration data is stored in the registration POS register 20, instead of the process of transmitting the reserved registration data described above, the settlement POS register 30 may notify the registration POS register 20 that the registration data is on hold (processing based on the registration data is on hold). For example, the settlement POS register 30a may display a display indicating that reserved registration data exists in the registration POS register 20 on the display unit 305, and transmit status information indicating the on hold state to the registration POS register 20. Furthermore, the registration POS register 20 may update the status information from the standby state to the on hold state in response to receiving the status information indicating the on hold state.

[0099] Various methods of storing the pending registration data are conceivable, including storing the data in the settlement POS register 30, sending the pending registration data to the registration POS register 20 that registered the registration data (or sending identification information that can identify the pending registration data and status information indicating that the data is in a pending state) (storing the data in the registration POS register 20), and sending the data to the store controller 10 (storing the data in the store controller 10).

[0100] In the case of the method of storing the reserved registration data in the checkout POS register 30, the registration POS register 20 may perform a process of transmitting only the additionally registered "forgotten item" to the checkout POS register 30 storing the reserved registration data. In this way, the checkout POS register 30 storing the reserved registration data may additionally register the received "forgotten item" in the reserved registration data that is being treated as reserved.

[0101] In addition, in the case of a method in which the reserved registration data is stored in the store controller 10, the registration POS register 20 may perform a process of transmitting the additionally registered "forgotten item" to the store controller 10. In this way, the store controller 10 may additionally register the received "forgotten item" in the stored reserved registration data.

[0102] Next, referring to Fig. 12, an example of the display of a button for suspending the settlement process displayed on the display unit 305 of the settlement POS register 30 will be described. In Fig. 12, the settlement POS register 30 displays payment information such as the receipt number and payment amount information for performing the settlement process, and also displays a "Forgot to Buy button" (see reference numeral 3061) for suspending the settlement process on the display unit 305. For example, the settlement POS register 30a that has transitioned to a standby state in step S26 of Fig. 11 displays information including the "Forgot to Buy button" on the display unit 305 as shown in Fig. 12. Then, in step S29b of Fig. 11, the settlement POS register 30a determines whether or not the "Forgot to Buy button" has been pressed by determining whether or not the "Suspend settlement" button has been pressed.

[0103] Next, the reserved receipt issued in step S29c in Fig. 11 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. The reserved receipt shown in Fig. 13 is printed with a guide (see reference symbol 3051) indicating the issuing POS register 30 for settlement, as well as a two-dimensional code (see reference symbol 3052) for re-calling the registered data for which settlement processing has been put on hold. Note that instead of the two-dimensional code using a QR code (registered trademark) shown in this figure, a one-dimensional code such as a barcode may be used. Furthermore, instead of this two-dimensional code or one-dimensional code, information indicated by numbers, letters, symbols, pictures, etc. associated with each registered data may be used.

[0104] As described above, the POS system 1 of the present embodiment is configured to include a registration POS register 20 (registration device) that registers products to be purchased, and a plurality of settlement POS registers 30 (settlement devices) that perform settlement based on the registration data of the products. The registration POS register 20 executes processes (acquisition means) such as steps S12, S15, S18, etc., that acquire status information related to settlement processing from each settlement POS register 30, a process (selection means) of step S22 that selects the settlement POS register 30 that should perform settlement for the registered products based on the status information, and a process (transmission means) of step S23 that transmits the registration data of the registered products to the selected settlement POS register 30. In this way, the registration data is transmitted from the registration POS register 20 to the settlement POS register 30 according to the status of the settlement POS register 30, so that the necessary registration data has already arrived at the settlement POS register 30, reducing the customer's operations and thereby shortening the settlement time.

[0105] In addition, when the settlement POS register 30 receives registration data from the registration POS register 20, the control means executes processing of step S26 to control the settlement POS register 30 to enter a standby state for settlement processing. This enables the settlement POS register 30 to enter a standby state in which settlement can immediately begin, thereby minimizing customer operations.

[0106] In addition, when the settlement POS register 30 receives registration data from the registration POS register 20, it executes processing (notification means) of step S26 to notify the customer that this is the settlement POS register 30 that should carry out settlement for the registered products, so that the customer can immediately tell which settlement device they should go to.

[0107] Furthermore, since the registration POS register 20 executes the process (display means) of step S25 for displaying the status information, the status of the settlement POS register 30 can be grasped on the registration POS register 20 side.

[0108] Moreover, the status information is information indicating the progress of the settlement process, and in the process (selection means) of step S22, the settlement POS register 30 in which the progress of the settlement process has progressed the most is selected as the settlement POS register 30 that should settle the registered products. According to this configuration, the most suitable settlement POS register 30 is selected according to the status information indicating the progress of the settlement process at the settlement POS register 30, so that, for example, customers are not concentrated at one settlement POS register 30, and settlement can be made efficiently.

[0109] Furthermore, if the status information is the same when the registration POS register 20 transmits registration data to the settlement POS register 30, the destination may be determined according to the customer's age and the distance to the settlement POS register 30. For example, if the customer is elderly, the registration POS register 20 may be allowed to select the settlement POS register 30 that is closest to the customer, which makes it easier to provide support and further improves customer satisfaction.

[0110] In the embodiment of the present invention, the registration data of the product to be purchased by the customer registered in the registration device is transmitted to the settlement device selected during the registration process, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the registration POS register 20 may link the settlement device identification information, etc. of the settlement POS register 30 selected during the registration process with the registration data of the product and transmit them to the store controller 10, and the store controller 10 may transmit the registration data of the product to be purchased by the customer registered in the registration device according to the settlement process status of the settlement POS register 30 that is the target of the store controller 10. Alternatively, the settlement POS register 30 itself may request and receive the registration data of the product to be purchased by the customer registered in the registration device from the store controller 10 based on the settlement device identification information of its own device according to the settlement process status of the settlement POS register 30.

[0111] The registration POS register 20 may execute a process (printing means) of printing information on a print medium to guide the settlement POS register 30 selected in the process (selection means) of step S22. This allows the customer to immediately tell which settlement device to go to by checking the printed content.

[0112] Furthermore, the registration POS register 20 exercises control to prohibit selection so that a settlement POS register 30 with status information of "in use" cannot be selected as the settlement POS register 30 to settle the registered merchandise. Here, the status information being "in use" refers to a case where the progress of the settlement process in the settlement POS register 30 is, for example, "waiting", "settling", or "issuing a receipt" (i.e., not "empty"). Note that a case where "trouble is occurring" may also be included in the case where the status information is "in use".

[0113] For example, as described above, the configuration may be such that the store clerk looks at the status information of each settlement POS register 30 displayed on the touch panel of the registration POS register 20 and selects the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data registered in the registration POS register 20 is to be transmitted. As a specific example, the touch panel of the registration POS register 20 displays buttons corresponding to each settlement POS register 30 so that the store clerk can select the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data is to be transmitted, and the store clerk may select and press one of the buttons corresponding to each settlement POS register 30 to select the settlement POS register 30 to which the registration data is to be transmitted. In such a case, the registration POS register 20 may be controlled so that the settlement POS register 30 whose status information is "in use" cannot be selected. For example, the registration POS register 20 may display the button corresponding to the settlement POS register 30 whose status information is "in use" among the buttons corresponding to each settlement POS register 30 so that it cannot be selected. Furthermore, if the customer currently being registered has put their registration data (accounting data) on hold at the checkout POS register 30, the button corresponding to the checkout POS register 30 that the customer has put on hold will display "hold," and when the store clerk presses the button displaying "hold," the registration data (accounting data) that the customer has put on hold will be called up. After that, when the customer completes the additional registration of the items they forgot to buy and presses the button displaying "hold" that corresponds to the checkout POS register 30, the registration data (accounting data) may be sent to the checkout POS register 30 that corresponds to the "hold" button.

[0114] This prevents the registration data registered in the registration POS register 20 from being transmitted biasedly to only a specific one of the multiple settlement POS registers 30, making it possible to allocate customers evenly to each of the multiple registration POS registers 20.

[0115] The settlement POS register 30 also executes the process (holding means) of steps S29c and S29d to hold the settlement process based on the registration data received and in a standby state. The registration POS register 20 also executes the process of step S29e to receive the reserved registration data for which the settlement process has been held, and executes the process of additionally registering the registration data of the "forgotten item" to the received held registration data in response to a request from the customer to additionally register an item (step S29j). This allows the settlement process of the already registered registration data to be held, and the forgotten item to be smoothly additionally registered in the registration POS register 20 and settled together. For example, in the POS system 1 using the settlement POS register 30 operated by the customer to settle the account, even if the customer has forgotten to buy an item, it is possible to hold the settlement process based on the standby registration data and additionally register the item that the customer has forgotten to buy to the held registration data in the registration POS register 20. Therefore, the customer can have the product he or she forgot to buy registered at the registration POS register 20 and settle the bill without having to go through troublesome and cumbersome procedures.

[0116] In addition, when the settlement POS register 30 puts on hold the registration data that it has received and is in a waiting state, it executes the process of step S29d in which it transmits (returns) the registration data to the registration POS register 20 that transmitted the registration data, thereby making it possible to update the pending registration data on the registration POS register 20 side.

[0117] Furthermore, when the settlement process based on the registration data that has been received and is in a standby state is put on hold, the settlement POS register 30 may execute a process to notify the registration POS register 20 that transmitted the registration data that the registration data has been put on hold. This allows the registration POS register 20 to know at any time that the registration data has been put on hold, and to always know that there is pending registration data on the display screen. Also, the store clerk can call up the pending registration data (accounting data) by touching the display on the display screen that indicates that there is pending registration data. This allows for smooth support for customers and additional registration of forgotten items.

[0118] In addition, when the above-mentioned holding means holds the settlement process based on the registration data in a waiting state, it issues a held receipt on which information associated with the registration data is printed, so that the customer can smoothly register the forgotten item by handing the forgotten item and the held receipt to the clerk at the registration POS register 20.

[0119] In addition, when the above-mentioned holding means holds the settlement process based on the registration data that is in a waiting state, it issues a held receipt printed with a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code that can call up the registered data, so that the clerk at the registration POS register 20 can easily call up the accounting data of the customer who forgot to buy something using the code information on the held receipt, and can smoothly register additional items that the customer forgot to buy.

[0120] In addition, when the registration data is put on hold by the holding means, the settlement POS register 30 executes a process (notification means) to notify the customer that the registration data has been put on hold by the buzzer 308, so that the store clerk can quickly recognize that the data has been put on hold, allowing the store clerk to provide support to the customer and also preventing fraud.

[0121] In the POS system 1 of this embodiment, the settlement process can be put on hold by pressing a "settlement hold" button on the settlement POS register 30, and the held registration data is sent to the registration POS register 20, but this is not limited to the above. For example, in the POS system 1, a "call back unsettled registration data" button may be provided on the registration POS register 20, and when this button is pressed, the registration data of unsettled customers in the settlement POS register 30 (settlement process based on the registration data) may be displayed as an unsettled list on the screen of the registration POS register 20, and when the registration data of a target customer is touched from the unsettled list (for example, by a touch operation by a store clerk), the registration data of that customer may be put on hold and recalled to the registration POS register 20. This allows the POS system 1 to recall the registration data of customers waiting to make a payment to the registration POS register 20 regardless of the order of the payment, and quickly register additional products that the customers forgot to buy.

[0122] In this embodiment, the payment means (payment method) in the settlement process (clearance process) based on the reserved registered data may be changed. As a change of the payment means, in the settlement process based on the registered data of the customer who is about to settle at the settlement POS register 30, the payment means in the settlement process based on the reserved registered data may be changed by pressing a button such as "settlement pending" on the screen display of the display unit 305 of the settlement POS register 30. Alternatively, the payment means in the settlement process based on the reserved registered data of the customer waiting for settlement at the settlement POS register 30 (unsettled registered data stored in the settlement POS register 30) in the unsettled list displayed by pressing a "recall unsettled registered data" button provided on the registration POS register 20 may be changed. The change of the payment method is not limited to a payment method selectively using cash, electronic money, credit card, etc., but may be, for example, a change to a payment method in which a part or all of the settlement amount is paid using a gift certificate or the like (for example, a gift certificate or shopping voucher that can be used as the payment amount with a predetermined face value). For example, in a settlement process, if the face value paid using a gift certificate or the like is part of the settlement amount, the remaining amount obtained by subtracting the face value of the gift certificate or the like from the settlement amount based on the reserved registered data may be set as the settlement amount of the reserved registered data. Also, in a settlement process, if the face value paid using a gift certificate or the like exceeds the amount of the settlement amount, the amount obtained by subtracting the settlement amount based on the reserved registered data from the face value paid using the gift certificate or the like may be set as the amount to be withdrawn from the settlement POS register 30 as a refund for the remaining amount of the gift certificate that was not used up. The registration POS register 20 may transmit the registration data, which has been changed and placed on hold, to the settlement POS register 30 as shown in the above embodiment.

[0123] In the present embodiment, the status information indicating the progress of the settlement process in the settlement POS register 30 includes, for example, standby, settlement in progress, receipt issuing, vacant, pending accounting, and trouble occurring. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples. For example, in the case of a change machine that deposits and dispenses cash in the settlement unit 310, the status of the change machine may be the status information, and the status of the change machine may be transmitted as the status information. In this case, information on the currency type stored in the change machine being near full (a state in which the change machine will soon be full of a certain currency type) or near end (a state in which the change machine will soon be empty of a particular currency type) may be transmitted as status information to the registration POS register 20. Based on this status information, the registration POS register 20 may perform a process of determining which settlement POS register 30 to select. For example, the registration POS register 20 may avoid selecting a settlement POS register 30 that is near full or near end in terms of the currency type stored in the change machine, and may select another settlement POS register 30. This has the effect of preventing problems such as running out of change during a cash settlement, or the change machine becoming full and unable to operate due to the currency type deposited at the time of settlement. In the display example of FIG. 7, along with an icon for selecting a product (in this example, a vegetable), and information indicating the amount, quantity, etc., buttons 2051-2053 showing status information of the settlement POS registers 30a-30c are displayed to indicate "available status" and the like, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the status of the change dispenser provided in the settlement POS registers 30a-30c (for example, near full, near end, or coin jam status) may be displayed. In addition, if the status information is displayed on a settlement POS register 30 equipped with a change dispenser in a near-full or near-end state, there is a high possibility that this will cause problems such as trouble during settlement, so the display may be made in a form that draws attention different from other buttons (for example, by flashing faster than normal to draw the operator's attention, or by changing the display color to a color that is not normally used (for example, red if red is not a normally used color) to indicate that caution is required). In this form, it is indicated that a settlement POS register 30 that displays status information in a form different from other buttons should not be selected as a transmission destination, which has the effect of reducing the transmission of registration data to a settlement POS register 30 that is likely to cause problems such as trouble.

[0124] The program for implementing the POS register (the registration POS register or the settlement POS register) and the POS system described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read into a computer system and executed. 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 a computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or a client when a 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).

[0125] [Note] Another object of the present invention is to provide a POS system and a registration device that can reduce the amount of operations performed by the customer during payment processing.

[0126] (Appendix 1) One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer and a plurality of settlement devices that perform settlement based on the registration data of the products, wherein the registration device is characterized in that it comprises a selection means for selecting a settlement device that should perform settlement for the registered products, and a transmission means for transmitting the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement for the customer can be performed at the selected settlement device.

[0127] According to the above configuration, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is sent from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Therefore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device. This reduces the number of operations required by the customer, and thereby shortens the settlement time.

[0128] (Appendix 2) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device is equipped with an acquisition means for acquiring status information regarding the settlement process from each of the settlement devices, the selection means for selecting a settlement device that should perform settlement for the registered products based on the status information, and the settlement device is equipped with a control means for controlling the settlement device to enter a standby state for the settlement process when it receives the registration data from the registration device.

[0129] According to the above configuration, registration data is sent from the registration device to the settlement device selected based on the status information regarding the settlement process, and the settlement device is in a standby state so that it can immediately start settlement, thereby minimizing customer operations.

[0130] (Appendix 3) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the settlement device is equipped with an alarm means for notifying a customer that this is the settlement device that should perform settlement for the registered product when the settlement device receives the registration data from the registration device.

[0131] According to the above configuration, the customer can immediately tell which payment device he or she should go to.

[0132] (Supplementary Note 4) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device includes a printing means for printing information on a print medium that provides information about the settlement device selected by the selection means.

[0133] According to the above configuration, the customer can immediately tell which settlement device he or she should go to by checking the printed content.

[0134] (Supplementary Note 5) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device includes a display means for displaying the status information.

[0135] According to the above configuration, the status of the settlement device can be grasped on the registration device side.

[0136] (Appendix 6) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the status information is information indicating the progress of a settlement process, and the selection means selects the settlement device that has made the most progress in the settlement process as the settlement device that should perform settlement for the registered products.

[0137] According to the above configuration, the most suitable settlement device is selected according to status information indicating the progress of the settlement process at the settlement device, so that, for example, customers will not be concentrated at one settlement device, and the registration data (accounting data) will be sent to the settlement device where the settlement process, in which the payment is performed by the customer's own operation, is likely to be completed quickly. This makes it possible to disperse congestion at the settlement devices and enables efficient settlement, resulting in better customer handling.

[0138] (Appendix 7) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the selection means performs selection prohibition control so that a settlement device whose status information is in use cannot be selected as the settlement device to perform settlement for the registered product.

[0139] According to the above configuration, the registration data registered in the registration device is not transmitted disproportionately to only a specific settlement device among the multiple settlement devices, so that customers can be allocated evenly to each of the multiple settlement devices.

[0140] (Supplementary Note 8) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the settlement device includes a holding means for holding the registration data that has been received and is in a standby state.

[0141] According to the above configuration, the settlement process of the already registered registration data can be suspended, and the forgotten product can be smoothly added to the registration device and settled at the same time. Therefore, the customer can add the forgotten product and settle the payment without any hassle or hassle.

[0142] (Supplementary Note 9) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device adds registration data of the product to the registration data reserved by the settlement device.

[0143] According to the above configuration, the settlement process of the already registered registration data can be suspended, and the forgotten product can be smoothly added to the registration device and settled at the same time. Therefore, the customer can add the forgotten product and settle the payment without any hassle or hassle.

[0144] (Appendix 10) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that when the registration data that has been received and is in a waiting state is put on hold, the settlement device transmits the registration data to the registration device that transmitted the registration data.

[0145] According to the above configuration, the registration data for which the settlement process has been put on hold can be returned to the registration device, and the registration data can be updated in the registration device, for example by adding registration data for products that the customer forgot to buy to the put on hold registration data.

[0146] (Appendix 11) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that when the registration data that has been received and is in a waiting state is put on hold, the settlement device notifies the registration device that transmitted the registration data that the registration data has been put on hold.

[0147] According to the above configuration, it is possible to know at any time that the registration data has been put on hold at the registration device, and to always know that there is on-hold registration data on the display screen. Also, if the customer currently registering has put their registration data (accounting data) on hold at the settlement device, the button corresponding to the settlement device where the customer has put the data on hold will display "on hold", and if the customer has not yet registered an additional product that they forgot to buy, pressing the button displaying "on hold" that corresponds to the settlement device may call up the registration data (accounting data) that the customer has put on hold. This allows smooth support for customers who have forgotten to buy something.

[0148] (Appendix 12) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that when the holding means holds the registered data that is in the waiting state, it issues a held receipt on which information associated with the registered data is printed.

[0149] According to the above-mentioned configuration, by issuing a reserved receipt, the customer can smoothly register the forgotten item by handing the reserved receipt and the item forgotten to be purchased to a store clerk at the registration device.

[0150] (Appendix 13) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that when the holding means holds the registered data that is in the waiting state, it issues a held receipt on which a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code that can be used to call up the registered data is printed.

[0151] According to the above configuration, when a customer wants to have the reserved receipt issued and the customer wants to have the product that he or she forgot to buy registered, the customer hands the reserved receipt to a clerk at the registration device, and the clerk can read the code information on the reserved receipt with a scanner to easily read out the reserved accounting data for the customer, thereby enabling the customer to smoothly register the product that he or she forgot to buy.

[0152] (Appendix 14) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that when the registration data is put on hold by the holding means, the settlement device notifies the user by a notification means that the registration data has been put on hold.

[0153] According to the above-mentioned configuration, the fact that a transaction has been put on hold is notified by the notification means, so that the store clerk can quickly recognize that the transaction has been put on hold, and can provide support to the customer while also preventing fraud.

[0154] (Appendix 15) One aspect of the present invention is a registration device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased and a plurality of settlement devices that perform settlement based on the registration data of the products, characterized in that the registration device comprises an acquisition means for acquiring status information regarding the settlement process from each of the settlement devices, a selection means for selecting a settlement device that should perform settlement for the registered products based on the status information, and a transmission means for transmitting the registration data of the registered products to the selected settlement device.

[0155] According to the above configuration, the registration data is sent from the registration device to the settlement device selected according to the status information regarding the settlement process. Therefore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by that settlement device. This reduces the number of operations required by the customer, and thereby shortens the settlement time.

[0156] (Supplementary Note 16) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device includes a printing means for printing information on a print medium that provides information about the settlement device selected by the selection means.

[0157] According to the above configuration, the customer can immediately tell which settlement device he or she should go to by checking the printed content.

[0158] (Appendix 17) One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device which is operated by a store clerk to register products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices which the customer operates to perform the settlement process based on the registration data of the products, the registration device comprising: display means for displaying a plurality of buttons representing each of the plurality of settlement devices; selection means for allowing a customer to select from the buttons a settlement device which will perform the settlement process based on the registration data of the registered products; and transmission means for transmitting the registration data so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed by the selected settlement device, and the display means displays the buttons of the settlement device to which the registration data has been transmitted by the transmission means in a different display manner from the buttons of the other settlement devices.

[0159] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to which the customer should process the payment is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, the button of the settlement device to which the registration data was transmitted is displayed in a different display mode from the buttons of the other settlement devices. Therefore, the store clerk can correctly verbally inform the customer which settlement device the registration data was transmitted to, and further, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by that settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, thereby shortening the payment time.

[0160] (Appendix 18) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the registration device acquires status information from the settlement device, and the selection means controls the prohibition or permission of selection of the settlement device displayed as the button by the display means based on the acquired status information.

[0161] According to the above aspect, the registration device can prevent the selection of a settlement device whose status information is, for example, "in use" as a settlement device to settle the registered merchandise. Therefore, the registration data registered in the registration device is not transmitted biasedly to only a specific settlement device among the multiple settlement devices, so that customers can be evenly allocated to each of the multiple settlement devices.

[0162] (Appendix 19) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the registration device acquires status information from the settlement device, and the display means displays the status information on the button of the settlement device and highlights the status information corresponding to the settlement device to which the registration data was transmitted by the transmission means.

[0163] According to the above aspect, the status of the settlement device can be grasped on the registration device side.

[0164] (Appendix 20) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the settlement device is provided with an alarm means for notifying a customer that the settlement device is the settlement device that will perform settlement for the registered products when the registration data is received from the registration device.

[0165] According to the above aspect, the customer can immediately tell which settlement device he or she should go to.

[0166] (Appendix 21) One aspect of the present invention is a registration device in a POS system having a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products that a customer wishes to purchase, and a plurality of settlement devices which customers themselves operate to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, the registration device comprising: display means for displaying a plurality of buttons indicating each of the plurality of settlement devices on a display unit for the store clerk; selection means for allowing a settlement device that will perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the registered products to be selected from the buttons; and transmission means for transmitting the registration data so that the selected settlement device can perform settlement processing for the customer, wherein the display means displays the buttons of the settlement device to which the registration data has been transmitted by the transmission means in a different display mode from the buttons of the other settlement devices.

[0167] According to the above aspect, the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the settlement device selected in accordance with the status information regarding the settlement process. Furthermore, the button of the settlement device to which the registration data was transmitted is displayed in a different display mode from the buttons of the other settlement devices. Therefore, the store clerk can correctly verbally inform the customer to which settlement device the registration data was transmitted, and further, when the customer attempts to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by that settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, thereby shortening the settlement time.

[0168] (Appendix 22) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device acquires status information from the settlement device, and the selection means controls the prohibition or permission of selection of the settlement device displayed as the button by the display means based on the acquired status information.

[0169] According to the above aspect, the registration device can prevent the selection of a settlement device whose status information is, for example, "in use" as a settlement device to settle the registered merchandise. Therefore, the registration data registered in the registration device is not transmitted biasedly to only a specific settlement device among the multiple settlement devices, so that customers can be evenly allocated to each of the multiple settlement devices.

[0170] (Appendix 23) One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device which registers products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices which the customer operates to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, the registration device comprising: display means which displays a plurality of buttons representing each of the plurality of settlement devices on a display unit; selection means which allows a customer to select from the buttons a settlement device which will perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the registered products; and transmission means which transmits the registration data so that the settlement processing for the customer can be performed by the selected settlement device, the display means displays the button of the settlement device to which the transmission means has transmitted the registration data in a different display manner from the buttons of other settlement devices, the settlement device comprises a specified lamp which provides an alert by flashing or lighting, and the settlement device flashes or lights up the specified lamp when it receives the registration data transmitted by the transmission means.

[0171] According to the above embodiment, the settlement device to which the customer should make a payment is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, the button of the settlement device to which the registration data is transmitted is displayed in a display mode different from that of the buttons of the other settlement devices. Therefore, the store clerk can correctly verbally inform the customer to which settlement device the registration data has been transmitted, and further, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already arrived at that settlement device. This reduces the customer's operations, thereby shortening the settlement time. Furthermore, when the settlement device receives the registration data from the registration device, a lamp notifies the customer that this is the settlement device to which the customer should make a payment for the registered goods, so that the customer can immediately tell which settlement device to go to.

[0172] (Supplementary Note 24) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the predetermined lamp provided in the settlement device is provided on a sign pole.

[0173] According to the above aspect, when a settlement device receives registration data from a registration device, a lamp on a sign pole equipped with the settlement device notifies the customer that this is the settlement device where settlement for registered products should be performed, so that the customer can immediately tell which settlement device to go to.

[0174] (Appendix 25) One aspect of the present invention is a settlement device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, displays a plurality of buttons representing a plurality of settlement devices on a display unit, allows a customer to select from the buttons a settlement device that will perform settlement processing based on registration data of the registered products, and transmits the registration data so that the selected settlement device can perform settlement processing for the customer, and displays the buttons of the settlement device that transmitted the registration data in a different display mode from the buttons of other settlement devices, and a plurality of settlement devices that customers themselves operate to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, the settlement device having a specified lamp that provides an alert by flashing or lighting, and flashing or lighting the specified lamp when it receives registration data transmitted from the registration device.

[0175] According to the above embodiment, the settlement device to which the customer should make a payment is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, the button of the settlement device to which the registration data is transmitted is displayed in a display mode different from that of the buttons of the other settlement devices. Therefore, the store clerk can correctly verbally inform the customer to which settlement device the registration data has been transmitted, and further, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already arrived at that settlement device. This reduces the customer's operations, thereby shortening the settlement time. Furthermore, when the settlement device receives the registration data from the registration device, a lamp notifies the customer that this is the settlement device to which the customer should make a payment for the registered goods, so that the customer can immediately tell which settlement device to go to.

[0176] (Supplementary Note 26) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the settlement device, the specified lamp is provided on a sign pole.

[0177] According to the above aspect, when a settlement device receives registration data from a registration device, a lamp on a sign pole equipped with the settlement device notifies the customer that this is the settlement device where settlement for registered products should be performed, so that the customer can immediately tell which settlement device to go to.

[0178] (Appendix 27) One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device which registers products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices which the customer operates to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, wherein the registration device comprises: display means which displays a plurality of buttons representing each of the plurality of settlement devices on a display unit; selection means which allows a settlement device which will perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the registered products to be selected from the buttons; and transmission means which transmits the registration data so that the settlement processing for the customer can be performed at the selected settlement device, wherein the display means of the registration device displays the buttons of the settlement device to which the transmission means transmitted the registration data in a different display manner from the buttons of other settlement devices, and the settlement device comprises receiving means which receives the registration data transmitted from the registration device, and display means which displays on a display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card for settling the price based on the received registration data.

[0179] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to which the customer should process the payment is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, the button of the settlement device to which the registration data was transmitted is displayed in a different display mode from the buttons of the other settlement devices. Therefore, the store clerk can orally inform the customer correctly which settlement device the registration data was transmitted to. Furthermore, when the customer attempts to operate a settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by that settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at that settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, thereby shortening the settlement time.

[0180] (Appendix 28) One aspect of the present invention is a settlement device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, displays a plurality of buttons representing a plurality of settlement devices on a display unit, allows a settlement device to be selected from the buttons based on registration data of the registered products, transmits the registration data so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the selected settlement device, and displays the buttons of the settlement device that transmitted the registration data in a different display manner from the buttons of other settlement devices, and a plurality of settlement devices that are operated by customers themselves to perform settlement process based on the registration data of the products, the settlement device comprising: a receiving means for receiving the registration data transmitted from the registration device; and a display means for displaying on the display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card for settling the price based on the received registration data.

[0181] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to which the customer should process the payment is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, the button of the settlement device to which the registration data was transmitted is displayed in a different display mode from the buttons of the other settlement devices. Therefore, the store clerk can orally inform the customer correctly which settlement device the registration data was transmitted to. Furthermore, when the customer attempts to operate a settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by that settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at that settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, thereby shortening the settlement time.

[0182] (Appendix 29) One aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer as a settlement device in a POS system having a registration device that registers a product to be purchased by a customer, displays a plurality of buttons representing a plurality of settlement devices on a display unit, allows a settlement device to be selected from the buttons based on registration data of the registered product, transmits the registration data so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the selected settlement device, and displays the buttons of the settlement device that transmitted the registration data in a different display manner from the buttons of other settlement devices, and a plurality of settlement devices that are operated by customers themselves to perform settlement process based on the registration data of the products, as a receiving means for receiving the registration data transmitted from the registration device, and a display means for displaying on the display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card for settling the price based on the received registration data.

[0183] (Appendix 30) One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, wherein the registration device comprises a selection means that selects an available settlement device from the plurality of settlement devices and sets the selected settlement device as a transmission destination, and a transmission means that transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement processing for the customer can be performed at the settlement device set by the selection means, and the settlement device comprises a receiving means that receives the registration data transmitted by the transmission means, and a display means that displays on a display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card for settling the price based on the received registration data.

[0184] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is sent from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at the settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, and therefore shortens the settlement time.

[0185] (Appendix 31) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the selection means executes a selection process to preferentially select an available settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device, and if there is no available settlement device, to select another settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device and set it as the transmission destination.

[0186] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0187] (Appendix 32) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the selection means executes a selection process to select a settlement device and set it as the transmission destination in accordance with a priority order set based on the status of the settlement device.

[0188] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0189] (Appendix 33) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the settlement device further comprises a reading means for reading a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code printed on a printing medium used in the settlement process, and the registration device prints a printing medium on which a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code is printed for calling up registration data used in the settlement process when the settlement device is in a state unable to communicate.

[0190] According to the above aspect, even if the registration device is unable to communicate with the settlement device, the settlement device can obtain the purchase details of the products by reading the receipt issued by the registration device.

[0191] (Appendix 34) One aspect of the present invention is a settlement device in a POS system having a registration device comprising a selection means for registering products to be purchased by a customer, selecting an available settlement device from among a plurality of settlement devices, and setting the selected settlement device as a transmission destination, and a transmission means for transmitting registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the settlement device set by the selection means, and a plurality of settlement devices which are operated by customers themselves to perform the settlement process based on the registration data, the settlement device comprising: a receiving means for receiving the registration data transmitted by the transmission means; and a display means for displaying on a display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card for settling the price based on the received registration data.

[0192] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is sent from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at the settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, and therefore shortens the settlement time.

[0193] (Appendix 35) One aspect of the present invention is a registration device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices that are equipped with display means for displaying on a display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card for settling the price based on the registration data of the products and that the customer operates to perform the settlement process, the registration device being characterized in that it comprises a selection means for selecting an available settlement device from the plurality of settlement devices and setting the selected settlement device as a destination, and a transmission means for transmitting the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the settlement device set by the selection means.

[0194] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is sent from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at the settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, and therefore shortens the settlement time.

[0195] (Appendix 36) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned registration device, the selection means executes a selection process to preferentially select an available settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device, and if there is no available settlement device, to select another settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device and set it as the transmission destination.

[0196] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0197] (Appendix 37) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned registration device, the selection means executes a selection process to select a settlement device and set it as the transmission destination in accordance with a priority order set based on the status of the settlement device.

[0198] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0199] (Appendix 38) One aspect of the present invention is a registration device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer and a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, the registration device being characterized in that it comprises: a selection means that selects a settlement device in accordance with a priority order set based on the status of the settlement devices and sets the selected settlement device as a transmission destination; and a transmission means that transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement processing for the customer can be performed at the settlement device set by the selection means.

[0200] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer attempts to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device. This reduces the number of operations required by the customer, thereby shortening the settlement time.

[0201] (Appendix 39) One aspect of the present invention is a program for a POS system that causes a first computer to function as a registration device that is operated by a store clerk to register products that a customer wishes to purchase, and causes a second computer to function as multiple settlement devices that the customer operates to perform the settlement process based on the registration data of the products, the program causing the first computer to function as a selection means for selecting an available settlement device from the multiple settlement devices and setting the selected settlement device as the destination, and a transmission means for transmitting the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the settlement device set by the selection means, and the second computer to function as a receiving means for receiving the registration data transmitted by the transmission means, and a display means for displaying on a display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card, for settling the price based on the received registration data.

[0202] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is sent from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at the settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, and therefore shortens the settlement time.

[0203] (Appendix 40) One aspect of the present invention is that the program executes a selection process in which the selection means preferentially selects an available settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device, and if there is no available settlement device, selects another settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device and sets it as the transmission destination.

[0204] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0205] (Appendix 41) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the above-mentioned program executes a selection process in which the selection means selects a settlement device and sets it as the transmission destination in accordance with a priority order set based on the status of the settlement device.

[0206] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0207] (Appendix 42) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the above program further causes the second computer to function as a reading means for reading a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code printed on a printing medium used in the settlement process, and further causes the first computer to function as a printing means for printing a printing medium on which a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code is printed to call up registration data used in the settlement process when the settlement device is in a state where communication is impossible.

[0208] (Appendix 43) One aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer as a settlement device in a POS system having a registration device comprising a selection means for registering a product to be purchased by a customer, selecting an available settlement device from among a plurality of settlement devices, and setting the selected settlement device as a transmission destination, and a transmission means for transmitting registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the settlement device set by the selection means, and a plurality of settlement devices which are operated by customers themselves to perform the settlement process based on the registration data, to function as the settlement device, receiving means for receiving the registration data transmitted by the transmission means, and display means for displaying on a display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card, for settling the price based on the received registration data.

[0209] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is sent from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at the settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, and therefore shortens the settlement time.

[0210] (Appendix 44) One aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer serving as a registration device in a POS system having a registration device which registers products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices which are equipped with display means for displaying on a display unit a payment method to select at least either cash or credit card for settling the price based on the registration data of the products and which the customer operates to perform the settlement process, to function as: a selection means for selecting an available settlement device from among the plurality of settlement devices and setting the selected settlement device as a destination; and a transmission means for transmitting the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the settlement device set by the selection means.

[0211] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is sent from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer tries to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device, and the customer can select the payment method at the settlement device. This reduces the amount of operation required by the customer, and therefore shortens the settlement time.

[0212] (Appendix 45) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the program executes a selection process in which the selection means preferentially selects an available settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device, and if there is no available settlement device, selects another settlement device depending on the status of the settlement device and sets it as the transmission destination.

[0213] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0214] (Appendix 46) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the above-mentioned program executes a selection process in which the selection means selects a settlement device and sets it as the transmission destination in accordance with a priority order set based on the status of the settlement device.

[0215] According to the above aspect, congestion at the payment device can be dispersed and efficient payment can be achieved, resulting in better customer handling.

[0216] (Appendix 47) One aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer serving as a registration device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer and a plurality of settlement devices that customers themselves operate to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products to function as: a selection means that selects a settlement device in accordance with a priority order set based on the status of the settlement devices and sets the selected settlement device as a transmission destination; and a transmission means that transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement processing for the customer can be performed on the settlement device set by the selection means.

[0217] According to the above aspect, the settlement device to be used by the customer is selected in the registration device, and the registration data is transmitted from the registration device to the selected settlement device. Furthermore, when the customer attempts to operate the settlement device, the necessary registration data has already been received by the settlement device. This reduces the number of operations required by the customer, thereby shortening the settlement time.

[0218] (Appendix 48) One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform a settlement process based on the registration data of the products, wherein the registration device is further characterized by having a transmission means that selects a settlement device in accordance with a priority order and transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed by the selected settlement device.

[0219] According to the above aspect, when the registration device selects a settlement device to which registration data is to be sent, it can select, for example, a settlement device that is available or the settlement device that is likely to become available first (the settlement device where the settlement process has progressed the most), which can disperse congestion at the settlement devices and enable efficient settlement, improving customer handling. This can reduce the waiting time when customers make settlements, and shorten the settlement time.

[0220] (Supplementary Note 49) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the registration device includes a guidance means for displaying on a display unit guidance for a settlement device where the customer performs settlement processing.

[0221] According to the above aspect, it is possible to correctly inform the customer of the settlement device that should process the settlement.

[0222] (Supplementary Note 50) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the settlement device includes a reservation means for reserving settlement processing based on the registration data.

[0223] According to the above configuration, the settlement process of the already registered registration data can be suspended, and the forgotten product can be smoothly added to the registration device and settled at the same time. Therefore, the customer can add the forgotten product and settle the payment without any hassle or hassle.

[0224] (Supplementary Note 51) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the registration device includes a holding means for holding a settlement process based on the registration data, or for holding unsettled registration data.

[0225] According to the above configuration, the settlement process of the already registered registration data can be suspended, and the forgotten product can be smoothly added to the registration device and settled at the same time. Therefore, the customer can add the forgotten product and settle the payment without any hassle or hassle.

[0226] (Appendix 52) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned POS system, the registration device or the settlement device further includes a reading means for reading a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, and when a reserved receipt on which a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code capable of calling up the reserved registration data is printed is read by the reading means, the reserved registration data is called up.

[0227] According to the above configuration, by handing the reserved receipt to a clerk at the registration device, the clerk can easily read out the reserved accounting data for the customer by reading the code information on the reserved receipt with a scanner, so that the customer can smoothly add and register the products that he or she forgot to buy. Therefore, the registration data for which the settlement process has been put on hold can be called up by the registration device, and the registration data can be updated by adding the registration data for the products that the customer forgot to buy to the reserved registration data in the registration device. In addition, the reserved and additionally registered registration data can be called up by the settlement device using the reserved receipt to make the settlement.

[0228] (Appendix 53) One aspect of the present invention is a registration device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer and a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform a settlement process based on the registration data of the products, the registration device being characterized in that it has a transmission means for selecting a settlement device in accordance with a priority order and transmitting the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed at the selected settlement device.

[0229] According to the above aspect, when the registration device selects a settlement device to which registration data is to be sent, it can select, for example, a settlement device that is available or the settlement device that is likely to become available first (the settlement device where the settlement process has progressed the most), which can disperse congestion at the settlement devices and enable efficient settlement, improving customer handling. This can reduce the waiting time when customers make settlements, and shorten the settlement time.

[0230] (Supplementary Note 54) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device further comprises a guidance means for displaying on a display unit guidance for a settlement device where the customer performs settlement processing.

[0231] According to the above aspect, it is possible to correctly inform the customer of the settlement device that should process the settlement.

[0232] (Supplementary Note 55) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the registration device further comprises a holding means for holding a settlement process based on the registration data, or holding unsettled registration data.

[0233] According to the above configuration, the settlement process of the already registered registration data can be suspended, and the forgotten product can be smoothly added to the registration device and settled at the same time. Therefore, the customer can add the forgotten product and settle the payment without any hassle or hassle.

[0234] (Appendix 56) One aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the above-mentioned registration device further comprises a reading means for reading a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, and when a reserved receipt on which a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code capable of calling up the reserved registration data is printed is read by the reading means, the reserved registration data is called up.

[0235] According to the above configuration, the registration data for which the settlement process has been put on hold can be called up by the registration device, and the registration data can be updated in the registration device, for example by adding registration data for products that the customer forgot to buy to the put on hold registration data.

[0236] (Appendix 57) One aspect of the present invention is a program for a POS system that causes a first computer to function as a registration device that registers products that a customer wishes to purchase, and causes a second computer to function as a number of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform the settlement process based on the registration data of the products, the program causing the first computer to function as a transmission means that selects a settlement device in accordance with a priority order, and transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement process for the customer can be performed on the selected settlement device.

[0237] According to the above aspect, when the registration device selects a settlement device to which registration data is to be sent, it can select, for example, a settlement device that is available or the settlement device that is likely to become available first (the settlement device where the settlement process has progressed the most), which can disperse congestion at the settlement devices and enable efficient settlement, improving customer handling. This can reduce the waiting time when customers make settlements, and shorten the settlement time.

[0238] (Appendix 58) One aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer serving as a registration device in a POS system having a registration device for registering products to be purchased by a customer and a plurality of settlement devices which the customer operates to carry out settlement processing based on the registration data of the products to function as a transmission means for selecting a settlement device in accordance with a priority order and transmitting the registration data of the registered products so that the settlement processing for the customer can be carried out at the selected settlement device.

[0239] According to the above aspect, when the registration device selects a settlement device to which registration data is to be sent, it can select, for example, a settlement device that is available or the settlement device that is likely to become available first (the settlement device where the settlement process has progressed the most), which can disperse congestion at the settlement devices and enable efficient settlement, improving customer handling. This can reduce the waiting time when customers make settlements, and shorten the settlement time.

[0240] (Appendix 59) One aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, and a management device connected to the registration device and the settlement devices via a communication line, wherein the management device is characterized in that it has a transmission means that selects a settlement device in accordance with a priority order and transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the customer can operate the selected settlement device to perform settlement processing. (Appendix 60) One aspect of the present invention is a management device in a POS system having a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform settlement processing based on the registration data of the products, and a management device connected to the registration device and the settlement devices via a communication line, the management device being characterized in that the management device selects a settlement device in accordance with a priority order and transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the customer can operate the selected settlement device to perform settlement processing. (Appendix 61) One aspect of the present invention is a program for a POS system which causes a first computer to function as a registration device that registers products to be purchased by a customer, causes a second computer to function as a plurality of settlement devices that the customer operates to perform the settlement process based on the registration data of the products, and causes a third computer to function as a management device connected to the registration devices and the settlement devices via a communication line, the program causing the third computer to function as a transmission means that selects a settlement device in accordance with a priority order and transmits the registration data of the registered products so that the customer can operate the selected settlement device to perform the settlement process. (Appendix 62) One aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer serving as the management device in a POS system having a registration device for registering products to be purchased by a customer, a plurality of settlement devices which the customer operates to process the settlement based on the registration data of the products, and a management device connected to the registration devices and the settlement devices via a communication line to function as a transmission means for selecting a settlement device in accordance with a priority order and transmitting the registration data of the registered products so that the customer can operate the selected settlement device to process the settlement. According to the above aspect, when selecting a payment terminal, for example, an available payment terminal or a payment terminal that is likely to become available first (a payment terminal with the most advanced payment processing) can be selected with priority, so that congestion at the payment terminals can be dispersed and payment can be made efficiently, improving customer handling. This reduces the waiting time for customers to make payments and shortens the payment time. [Explanation of symbols]

[0241] 10…Store Controller 11…LAN 20... POS register for registration 30... POS register for settlement 201...CPU 202...ROM 203...RAM 204…Scanner section 205...Display section (for clerk) 205a...Display section (for customers) 206...Operation unit 207…Communications Department 208…Buzzer 209…Printing Department 301...CPU 302...ROM 303...RAM 304…Scanner section 305...Display section 306...Operation unit 307…Communications Department 308…Buzzer 309…Printing Department 310…Payment department 311...sign pole 312...Human detection sensor

Claims

[Claim 1] A registration device that registers products purchased by a customer through an operation by a store clerk and transmits registration data relating to the transaction of the registered products to one of a plurality of payment devices so that the customer can make a payment by his / her own operation, An input means for inputting information regarding the age of the customer; A receiving means for receiving status information of the plurality of settlement devices; a designation means for allowing the registration device itself to designate an available settlement device that will carry out settlement processing for the customer from among the plurality of settlement devices; a transmission means for transmitting the registration data to the settlement device designated by the designation means; Equipped with The registration device is characterized in that the designation means, based on information regarding the customer's age input by the input means and status information of the multiple payment devices received by the receiving means, designates a payment device other than the payment device operated only by a child when all of the multiple payment devices are in use and one of the payment devices in use is operated only by a child.

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