Adjustment device and program

Abstract

To prevent business efficiency of a shop clerk from decreasing.SOLUTION: A commodity sales data processing system includes a registration device and an adjustment device. The registration device is operated by a shop clerk to perform registration processing for a commodity. The adjustment device is operated by a customer to perform adjustment processing for the commodity registered by the registration device. The adjustment device is connected to a change machine including a first storage unit that stores coins and a second storage unit capable of storing the coins stored in the first storage unit. When the coins stored in the first storage unit are more than or equal to a predetermined amount, the adjustment device is capable of switching from a normal state in which the adjustment processing can be performed to an idle state in which the adjustment processing cannot be performed. When the adjustment device is brought into the idle state, the registration device prohibits transmission of registration data on the commodity registered by the registration processing to the adjustment device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a settlement device and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a product sales data processing system is known that includes a registration device where a store clerk registers products and a settlement device where a customer settles the bill. The settlement device is connected to an automatic change dispenser. The automatic change dispenser is used, for example, when the price of products registered in the registration device is settled with cash. The automatic change dispenser may become near-full depending on the customer's usage. The near-full state is a state in which the number of coins stored is close to the allowable limit. When the automatic change dispenser becomes near-full, the settlement device issues a warning to that effect. For example, the settlement device issues a warning by lighting a sign pole provided in the settlement device, displaying a status indicating the state on a screen provided in the settlement device, or displaying a screen indicating the state on a screen of a monitoring device.

[0003] Related technology has been disclosed that involves dispensing money of a denomination that has been determined to be an overflow into a storage bag, and displaying information indicating that a storage bag is not attached on an attendant PC (a PC used by store clerks) if the storage bag is not attached (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-162023 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, with the conventional technology, whenever an alarm was issued by the automatic change dispenser, a store clerk had to go to the settlement device to which the automatic change dispenser was connected and perform operations to put the settlement device into hibernation mode, which resulted in a decrease in the work efficiency of the store clerk.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique capable of preventing a decline in the work efficiency of store clerks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one embodiment of the present invention is a settlement device that includes a first storage section for storing coins and a second storage section capable of storing the coins stored in the first storage section, and is capable of changing from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a paused state in which settlement processing is impossible when the amount of coins stored in the first storage section becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and in the paused state, recovers a portion of the coins stored in the first storage section into the second storage section.

[0008] In addition, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer of a settlement device having a first storage section for storing coins and a second storage section capable of storing the coins stored in the first storage section to execute a process that enables the device to change from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a suspended state in which settlement processing is impossible when the amount of coins stored in the first storage section becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and that makes it possible to recover a portion of the coins stored in the first storage section in the suspended state. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a network configuration of a POS (Point Of Sales) system 1 according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of a POS register 20. [Diagram 3] 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a POS register 20. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic change dispenser 204. [Diagram 5] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. FIG. [Figure 6] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on each device. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1. [Figure 9A] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the settlement device 20P according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9B] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the settlement device 20P according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10A] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the registration device 20R according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10B] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the registration device 20R according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the set number of coins for each denomination. [Figure 12] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the number of coins currently held by each denomination in each POS register 20. FIG. [Figure 13] 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an operation of the POS system 1 according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] (Embodiment 1) (Network configuration of POS system 1) Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a network configuration of a POS (Point Of Sales) system 1 according to a first embodiment. The POS system 1 is an example of a product sales data processing system. As shown in Fig. 1, the POS system 1 includes a store controller 10, a monitoring device 11, and a plurality of POS registers 20-0 to 20-n. Each device is connected via a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0011] The store controller 10 is a computer (e.g., a server) that controls the POS system 1. The store controller 10 stores, for example, a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN code), product name, and sales price for each product. The store controller 10 is also referred to as a management device or a higher-level device. The monitoring device 11 is a computer that includes a display screen (monitor) and monitors multiple POS registers 20. The monitoring device 11 is also referred to as an assist monitor.

[0012] The POS registers 20-0 to 20-n are devices for mainly executing a registration process for registering products to be purchased and a settlement process (also called an accounting process or a settlement process) for settling the price of the registered products. That is, the POS registers 20-0 to 20-n are devices that mainly combine the function of a registration device that performs a registration process and the function of a settlement device that performs a settlement process. As will be described in detail later, the POS registers 20-0 to 20-n can be set to one of the following modes: a normal mode in which a store clerk and a customer conduct a transaction face-to-face; a settlement-only mode for settling the prices of products registered at the other POS registers 20-0 to 20-n; and a full self-service mode in which the customer registers the products and makes the settlement by himself.

[0013] In this embodiment, the POS register 20-0 functions as a registration device for a store clerk to register products. In other words, the POS register 20-0 is set to a normal mode. In the following, the POS register 20-0 may be referred to as the "registration device 20R."

[0014] The POS registers 20-1 to 20-n function as settlement devices where customers settle their accounts. In other words, the POS registers 20-1 to 20-n are set to a settlement-only mode. In the following, the POS registers 20-1 to 20-n may be referred to as "settlement devices 20P1 to 20Pn." When the POS registers 20-1 to 20-n are not particularly distinguished from each other, they may be referred to as "settlement devices 20P." When the registration device 20R and the settlement device 20P are not particularly distinguished from each other, the POS registers 20-0 to 20-n may be referred to as "POS registers 20."

[0015] The POS register 20 is an example of a product sales data processing device. The POS register 20 is a computer device (POS register) that registers products, settles accounts, manages sales data, etc. The store controller 10, the monitoring device 11, and the POS register 20 are connected to each other via a LAN (Local Area Network) in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0016] (Exterior of POS register 20) Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of the POS register 20. Fig. 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS register 20 as seen from the customer side. Fig. 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS register 20 as seen from the store clerk side. The POS register 20 may be of a type that is placed on a counter or a desk.

[0017] 2, the POS register 20 includes a customer display unit 201, a customer scanner unit 202, a card payment unit 203, an automatic change dispenser 204, a voice output unit 205, a printing unit 206, a store clerk display unit 207, a key operation unit 208, and a store clerk scanner unit 209. Although not shown, the POS register 20 may include a sign pole that can be lit in a predetermined lighting mode.

[0018] The customer-side display unit 201 is a display for customers. The customer-side display unit 201 is, for example, a touch panel. The customer-side display unit 201 displays various information and accepts various inputs from customers. For example, the customer-side display unit 201 displays preset keys, which are buttons for selecting products, and accepts operations (pressing) of the preset keys.

[0019] The customer-side scanner unit 202 is a scanner unit for customers. The customer-side scanner unit 202 optically reads various pieces of information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 202 optically reads codes (such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes) attached to products. In addition, the customer-side scanner unit 202 can also read codes (such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes) printed on various cards (such as membership cards and point cards).

[0020] The card payment unit 203 performs payment using various cards. The various cards referred to here are, for example, credit cards, prepaid cards such as transportation cards, point cards, etc. Also, the various cards may be contact cards (IC cards, magnetic cards) or non-contact cards (IC cards).

[0021] The card payment unit 203 includes, for example, a card reading unit, a display unit, and an operation unit. The card reading unit reads information from various cards. The card reading unit magnetically reads information from a magnetic card, and electrically reads information from an IC card. The display unit of the card payment unit 203 displays various information.

[0022] For example, when a credit card is used, the display unit displays the payment amount and a masked PIN number. The operation unit of the card payment unit 203 accepts various operations from the customer or staff of the store, etc. For example, when a credit card is used, the operation unit accepts a switching operation to use a credit card from the staff, and also accepts input of the PIN number from the customer.

[0023] The automatic change dispenser 204 is a cash settlement unit that performs settlement with cash. The automatic change dispenser 204 has an input port for banknotes and coins, and an output port for banknotes and coins. The input port and output port each have a sensor that detects banknotes and coins, and are positioned facing the customer. The input port accepts cash from customers. The output port outputs change (banknotes and coins). The automatic change dispenser 204 calculates the total amount of cash inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the total amount and the purchase amount, and outputs the change and change from the output port.

[0024] The audio output unit 205 is a speaker that outputs audio. The audio output unit 205 outputs, for example, audio guidance. The audio guidance is, for example, guidance to assist the customer in registering products or guidance to assist in payment.

[0025] The printing unit 206 is a printer device that issues various media such as receipts. The printing unit 206 has an issuing port for issuing receipts. The printing unit 206 is, for example, freely rotatable parallel to the horizontal direction, and the direction of the issuing port can be changed from the store clerk side to the customer side, or from the customer side to the store clerk side. The printing unit 206 may be rotated manually, or may be rotated by the driving force of a motor. Furthermore, if the printing unit 206 is configured to rotate by the driving force of a motor, it may rotate according to the operating mode of the POS register 20, which will be described later.

[0026] The store clerk display unit 207 is a display for the store clerk. The store clerk display unit 207 is, for example, a touch panel. The store clerk display unit 207 displays various information and accepts various inputs from the store clerk. For example, the store clerk display unit 207 displays preset keys, which are buttons for selecting products, and accepts operations (pressing) of the preset keys.

[0027] The key operation unit 208 is a hardware key and receives various inputs from a store clerk. For example, the key operation unit 208 has keys corresponding to products and quantities, and receives product selection and quantity selection from the store clerk.

[0028] The store clerk scanner unit 209 is a scanner unit for store clerks. The store clerk scanner unit 209 optically reads various types of information. For example, the store clerk scanner unit 209 reads codes. The codes include bar codes and two-dimensional codes. The codes include codes attached to products, codes attached to store clerk name tags, and codes printed on various cards (for example, membership cards, point cards, etc.).

[0029] (Hardware configuration of POS register 20) Next, the hardware configuration of the POS register 20 will be described. Fig. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the POS register 20. In the following, the contents explained in Fig. 2 will be omitted as appropriate. In Fig. 3, the POS register 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 302, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 303, a hard disk 304, a communication unit 305, a customer side display unit 201, a customer side scanner unit 202, a card settlement unit 203, an automatic change dispenser 204, an audio output unit 205, a printing unit 206, a store clerk side display unit 207, a key operation unit 208, and a store clerk side scanner unit 209. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0030] The CPU 301 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the POS register 20 by reading and executing a program (for example, a product sales data processing program) stored in the ROM 302. The ROM 302 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 301, including programs.

[0031] The RAM 303 is a read / write memory and stores various information, such as registration information (registration data) generated in a registration process for registering products, settlement information (settlement data) generated in a settlement process for settling (paying) purchased products, and information acquired from an external device.

[0032] The hard disk 304 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 304 may store programs executed by the CPU 301 instead of the ROM 302. The hard disk 304 may store information generated in various processes and information acquired from the outside instead of the RAM 303.

[0033] (About the operation mode of the POS register 20) Next, the operation modes of the POS register 20 will be described. The POS register 20 operates in one of a number of operation modes. The operation modes described below are operation modes related to registration and settlement processes during normal business operations, and specifically, there are a normal mode (face-to-face self-service mode), a checkout-only mode, and a full self-service mode.

[0034] The multiple operation modes include a tallying mode, a maintenance mode, a training mode, etc. The tallying mode is a mode for tallying and inquiring sales, inventory, etc. The maintenance mode is a mode in which a store clerk or maintenance person performs setting work or maintenance work. The training mode is a mode in which a new store clerk is trained on how to operate the POS register 20.

[0035] (Regarding normal mode) The normal mode (face-to-face self-service mode) is an operation mode in which product registration on the clerk side is enabled and product registration on the customer side is disabled. Specifically, in the normal mode, product registration using the clerk side display unit 207, the key operation unit 208, and the clerk side scanner unit 209 is enabled and product registration using the customer side display unit 201 and the customer side scanner unit 202 is disabled. As a result, in the normal mode, it is possible for the clerk side to perform the registration process without performing the registration process on the customer side. The POS register 20 set to the normal mode is the registration device 20R.

[0036] The normal mode is an operating mode in which insertion of money is enabled. Therefore, in the normal mode, it is possible to accept insertion of money even while the product registration process is being performed. In the normal mode, the settlement process is performed by inserting money into the automatic change dispenser 204 or by reading a card by the card settlement unit 203. The settlement process is performed after the registration process is performed by the store clerk.

[0037] Furthermore, in the normal mode, when the registration process is completed, the POS register 20 (registration device 20R) can also transmit registration information of the registered product to the POS register 20 (payment settlement device 20P) in the transaction-only mode.

[0038] (About accounting-only mode) The accounting-only mode is an operating mode in which product registration on the clerk side and product registration on the customer side are disabled and settlement is enabled. Specifically, in the accounting-only mode, product registration using the clerk side display unit 207, key operation unit 208, and clerk side scanner unit 209, and product registration using the customer side display unit 201 and customer side scanner unit 202 are disabled. This makes it possible to prevent registration processing from being performed on the clerk side and the customer side in the normal mode. The POS register 20 set in the accounting-only mode is the settlement device 20P.

[0039] The accounting-only mode is an operating mode in which insertion of coins is enabled. In the accounting-only mode, the settlement process is performed using the registration information transmitted from the registration device 20R. For example, in the accounting-only mode, it is possible to accept the insertion of coins by receiving registration information from the registration device 20R. In the accounting-only mode, the settlement process is performed by inserting coins into the automatic change dispenser 204 and reading a card by the card settlement unit 203.

[0040] (About Full Self Mode) The full self-service mode is an operation mode in which product registration on the customer side is enabled. Specifically, the full self-service mode is a mode in which product registration using the customer side display unit 201 and the customer side scanner unit 202 is enabled. As a result, in the full self-service mode, it is possible for the customer side to perform the registration process.

[0041] In the full self-service mode, product registration by the store clerk may also be enabled. Specifically, in the full self-service mode, product registration using the store clerk scanner unit 209, the store clerk display unit 207, and the key operation unit 208 may be enabled. This allows registration processing to be performed on both the store clerk and the customer sides in the full self-service mode. However, in the full self-service mode, product registration by the store clerk may be enabled or disabled by operation of the store clerk.

[0042] The full self-service mode is an operating mode in which insertion of currency is enabled. Therefore, in the full self-service mode, it is possible to accept insertion of currency even while product registration processing is being performed. In the full self-service mode, settlement processing is performed by inserting currency into the automatic change dispenser 204 or by reading a card by the card settlement unit 203. The settlement processing is performed after registration processing is performed by the customer or the store clerk.

[0043] (About switching between operation modes) Next, the switching of the operation mode of the POS register 20 will be described. The switching of the operation mode is performed, for example, in response to an explicit mode switching operation by a store clerk to switch the operation mode, or in response to an operation of reading a store clerk code. The switching of the operation mode may also be performed, for example, in response to a time condition. The time condition may be, for example, the passage of a predetermined time since the last operation, or the arrival of a switching time according to a preset schedule. The operation mode may also be switched in response to a mode switching instruction from another device (another POS register 20, a monitoring device, a mobile terminal, etc.). It is assumed that the switching of the operation mode is performed by a store clerk, not by a customer.

[0044] (About the configuration of the automatic change dispenser) FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the automatic change dispenser 204. In FIG. 4, the automatic change dispenser 204 includes a first storage unit 401 and a second storage unit 402. The automatic change dispenser 204 also includes an identification unit that identifies denominations, a sorting unit that sorts coins by denomination, and a transport unit that transports coins. The automatic change dispenser 204 also has a function of detecting a near-full state in which the number of coins in the first storage unit 401 is close to the allowable limit that can be stored in the first storage unit 401, and a near-end state in which the number of coins in the first storage unit 401 is low. For example, the automatic change dispenser 204 sets the number of coins that will result in a near-full state and the number of coins that will result in a near-end state for each denomination.

[0045] Furthermore, the automatic change dispenser 204 has a function (mechanism) of moving the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402. Note that this function is a well-known technique, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0046] The automatic change dispenser 204 counts the inserted coins and stores them in the first storage unit 401 under the control of the CPU 301. The automatic change dispenser 204 also counts the coins to be discharged from the first storage unit 401 (for example, coins to be given as change at the time of payment) and discharges them from an outlet. For this reason, the first storage unit 401 stores inserted coins by denomination, such as coins deposited at the time of payment and coins replenished at the time of refilling. The first storage unit 401 is configured so that it cannot be attached to or detached from the automatic change dispenser 204. The first storage unit 401 may also be configured so that it can be attached to or detached from the automatic change dispenser 204.

[0047] The second storage unit 402 is configured to be detachable from the automatic change dispenser 204. When the second storage unit 402 is removed from the automatic change dispenser 204, it can be carried by a store clerk. The automatic change dispenser 204 is locked in a stored state so that it cannot be carried by a person without the key. The second storage unit 402 is, for example, box-shaped. The second storage unit 402 may be bag-shaped.

[0048] The second storage unit 402 collects the currency stored in the first storage unit 401. For example, when collecting the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 after the store is closed, the automatic change dispenser 204 moves the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 in response to an operation by a store clerk. In addition, the automatic change dispenser 204 can move the currency in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 by denomination.

[0049] For example, when any denomination of the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 is in a near-full state, the automatic change dispenser 204 can move the currency of that denomination from the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 in response to an operation by a store clerk. Specifically, the automatic change dispenser 204 counts the currency to be moved from the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402, and moves the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402. The process of moving the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 is called an "overflow process." Note that the movement of currency from the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 is not limited to being automatically performed by the automatic change dispenser 204. For example, the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 may be manually moved to the second storage unit 402 by a store clerk.

[0050] Next, management of currency by denomination by the automatic change dispenser 204 will be described. The automatic change dispenser 204 manages the number of remaining coins (number of stored coins) for each denomination under the control of the CPU 301. Specifically, the automatic change dispenser 204 manages the latest information on the number of remaining coins for each denomination (hereinafter referred to as "remaining change information"). For example, when coins are inserted, the automatic change dispenser 204 updates (adds) the information on the number of remaining coins for each denomination based on the number of coins inserted (number of coins deposited) for each denomination.

[0051] Furthermore, when dispensing currency, the automatic change dispenser 204 updates (subtracts) information regarding the remaining number of currency of each denomination based on the number of currency dispensed (number of currency dispensed) of each denomination. Furthermore, when inserting and dispensing currency, the automatic change dispenser 204 stores deposit history information including information such as the number of currency inserted of each denomination, and withdrawal history information including information such as the number of currency dispensed of each denomination.

[0052] Note that the remaining number of coins of each denomination, remaining change information, deposit history information, withdrawal history information, etc. may not necessarily be stored in the automatic change dispenser 204 but may be stored in the POS register 20. For example, the POS register 20 may receive the remaining number of coins of each denomination, remaining change information, deposit history information, withdrawal history information, etc. from the automatic change dispenser 204 for each transaction and store the received information.

[0053] The remaining change information, deposit history information, and withdrawal history information may be stored in a memory area of ​​the automatic change dispenser 204, or in an external storage device. The external storage device may be, for example, a RAM or a hard disk of the POS register 20, or may be a storage device provided in a device other than the POS register 20.

[0054] (Functions of the POS system 1 according to this embodiment) Next, the functions of the POS system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The POS system 1 includes a registration device 20R and a settlement device 20P. The registration device 20R is operated by a store clerk to perform product registration processing. The settlement device 20P is operated by a customer to perform settlement processing for products registered by the registration device 20R. The settlement device is connected to an automatic change dispenser 204. The automatic change dispenser 204 includes a first storage unit 401 and a second storage unit 402.

[0055] The settlement device 20P can be in a number of states, including a normal state and a paused state. The normal state is a state in which settlement processing is possible. The normal state includes a standby state in which a customer is not making a settlement (standby state) and a state in which a customer is making a settlement.

[0056] The pause state is a state in which settlement processing is not possible. The settlement device 20P is in the normal state when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 is less than a predetermined amount. On the other hand, the settlement device 20P can change from the normal state to the pause state when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined amount. Specifically, the settlement device 20P can change from the normal state to the pause state when at least one denomination reaches the set number of coins for the near-full state, which is preset for each denomination. When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the automatic change dispenser 204 is in the near-full state.

[0057] The predetermined amount is not limited to the number set in the near-full state, but may be the number set in the full state. The number set in the full state is the maximum number of coins that can be stored in the first storage unit 401. When the automatic change dispenser 204 is near-full, the settlement device 20P goes into a pause state in response to an operation by a store clerk. However, the settlement device 20P may go into a pause state automatically without requiring an operation by a store clerk.

[0058] Here, when the automatic change dispenser 204 is put into a pause state in response to an operation by a store clerk, for example, the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 displays a confirmation message to the store clerk asking whether or not to put the automatic change dispenser 204 into a pause state. More specifically, when the automatic change dispenser 204 is in a near-full state, the settlement device 20P or the monitoring device 11 transmits information to that effect (hereinafter referred to as "near-full information") to the registration device 20R. When the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 receives the near-full information, it displays a confirmation button for putting the settlement device 20P into a pause state.

[0059] When the confirmation button accepts the instruction to put the settlement device 20P into a suspended state, the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 transmits information indicating that the settlement device 20P is to be put into a suspended state (hereinafter referred to as a "suspended state instruction") to the settlement device 20P. The settlement device 20P enters a suspended state upon receiving the suspended state instruction from the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11. When the settlement device 20P enters a suspended state, it transmits information indicating this (hereinafter referred to as "suspended state information") to the registration device 20R and the monitoring device 11.

[0060] When the settlement device 20P is in a normal state, the registration device 20R can transmit the registration data of the product registered by the registration process to the settlement device 20P. Specifically, the settlement device 20P in the normal state is displayed as a candidate destination on the clerk-side display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. When one of the candidate destinations is selected by the clerk, the registration device 20R transmits the registration data to the selected settlement device 20P.

[0061] On the other hand, when the settlement device 20P is in a suspended state, that is, when the registration device 20R receives suspension information from the settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R prohibits transmission of registration data to the settlement device 20P. Specifically, the suspended settlement device 20P is not displayed as a candidate destination on the clerk side display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. For example, a suspended settlement device 20P is displayed as being in a suspended state, and is displayed so that it cannot be selected as a destination for transmitting registration data. Therefore, when a suspended settlement device 20P is present, the registration device 20R either completes the settlement process by itself or transmits the registration data to a settlement device 20P in a normal state.

[0062] Even when the POS register 20 is set to the full self-service mode, it is possible to settle the account by receiving the registration data from the registration device 20R. Specifically, when the POS register 20 is set to the full self-service mode, the mode is switched to the accounting-only mode by receiving the registration data from the registration device 20R. The POS register 20 set to the full self-service mode may also enter a suspended state. When the POS register 20 set to the full self-service mode enters a suspended state, the registration device 20R prohibits the transmission of registration data to the POS register 20.

[0063] Here, it is assumed that the first storage unit 401 will be in a near-full state several times during the day. The currency moved to the second storage unit 402 is stored in the second storage unit 402 until closing time. For this reason, the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 may be moved to the second storage unit 402 in small amounts (for example, 10 to 20 pieces) at a time by overflow processing or manually by a store clerk as appropriate. That is, instead of moving all the currency in the first storage unit 401 to the second storage unit 402 at once, a small amount of currency may be moved to the second storage unit 402 so that the time of the suspension state is shortened. For example, a small amount of currency may be moved to the second storage unit 402 at the timing when the transaction is completed. This can reduce the time during which the settlement device 20P cannot be used due to the suspension state.

[0064] For example, the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 may be a predetermined number expected to be used in one transaction. The predetermined number may be, for example, nine of each of 1 yen coins, 10 yen coins, and 100 yen coins, five of each of 5 yen coins, 50 yen coins, and 500 yen coins, nine of 1000 yen bills, and five of 5000 yen bills, etc. In addition, since the legal upper limit of the number of coins that can be used in one transaction is 20, a number corresponding to this number (for example, 20) may be set as the predetermined number of coins.

[0065] (Regarding notification of near-full state) Here, when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full, the settlement device 20P or the monitoring device 11 notifies the fact that it has become near-full. The settlement device 20P notifies the fact that it has become near-full, for example, by a display screen on the customer side display unit 201, by a voice from the voice output unit 205, or by lighting up a sign pole (not shown) in a predetermined manner. Note that the notification that the settlement device 20P has become near-full is made by the registration device 20R as described below, and does not have to be made by the settlement device 20P.

[0066] Furthermore, when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full, the settlement device 20P or the monitoring device 11 transmits near-full information to the registration device 20R. Upon receiving the near-full information, the registration device 20R notifies the fact that the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P has become near-full. The notification of the near-full state made by the registration device 20R may be made, for example, via the display screen of the clerk-side display unit 207 or via audio from the audio output unit 205.

[0067] (Regarding collection of currency stored in first storage section 401) When the automatic change dispenser 204 is in a near-full state, it performs a recovery process (overflow process) to recover some of the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 into the second storage unit 402. The automatic change dispenser 204 may perform the overflow process automatically, or in response to an operation by a store clerk.

[0068] Here, a case where overflow processing is performed in response to an operation by a store clerk will be described. When the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full, the settlement device 20P displays a selection screen for asking whether or not to perform overflow processing. The selection screen may be displayed on the customer side display unit 201, or on the store clerk side display unit 207. When a request to start overflow processing is accepted on the selection screen, the settlement device 20P causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to start overflow processing.

[0069] Moreover, if the selection screen does not accept the start of overflow processing, that is, for example, if a selection not to start overflow processing is accepted, overflow processing will not be started. In this case, the store clerk manually collects the currency stored in the first storage unit 401 into the second storage unit 402 (hereinafter may be referred to as "manual collection"). Even if the bank becomes near-full, the near-full state may be resolved by dispensing more of the denomination that became near-full in the subsequent settlement process.

[0070] Depending on the structure of the automatic change dispenser 204, overflow processing may take time, and manual collection by a store clerk may be completed faster than overflow processing. For this reason, manual collection by a store clerk may take less time to return from a paused state to a normal state. Therefore, depending on the congestion situation (when it is relatively quiet), manual collection by a store clerk may be performed.

[0071] Furthermore, such a selection screen is not limited to being displayed on the settlement device 20P, but is also displayed on the registration device 20R and the monitoring device 11. Specifically, when the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 receives near-full information from the settlement device 20P, it displays a selection screen for asking whether or not to cause the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P to perform overflow processing. In the case of the registration device 20R, the selection screen is displayed on the store clerk display unit 207, and in the case of the monitoring device 11, it is displayed on the monitor.

[0072] When the selection screen accepts the start of overflow processing, the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 transmits information for starting overflow processing (hereinafter referred to as an "overflow start instruction") to the settlement device 20P. When the settlement device 20P receives the overflow start instruction from the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11, it causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to start overflow processing.

[0073] Furthermore, if the selection screen displayed on the registration device 20R or the monitoring device 11 does not accept the start of overflow processing, that is, if a selection is made not to start the overflow processing, for example, the overflow start instruction is not transmitted. In this case, a store clerk goes to the settlement device 20P and manually collects the bills.

[0074] The number of coins to be collected by the second storage unit 402 may be any number that makes the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 fall below the set number for the near-full state. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. 11, but a set number for the near-end state, a set number for surplus money, and a set number for the near-end state are set for each denomination. The order of the set numbers is expressed by an inequality sign as "set number for the near-end state < set number for surplus money < set number for the near-end state." For example, the number of coins to be collected by the second storage unit 402 may be a number that makes the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 equal to or greater than the set number for surplus money and less than the set number for the near-full state.

[0075] (About lifting the near-full state) When the near-full state is resolved, the settlement device 20P returns from the pause state to the normal state. The near-full state is resolved when the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 are stored in the second storage unit 402 and the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 falls below a predetermined amount. When the near-full state is resolved, the settlement device 20P may automatically return from the pause state to the normal state, or may display a confirmation button and return from the pause state to the normal state after a store clerk presses the confirmation button. This confirmation button may be displayed on at least one of the settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R, and the monitoring device 11.

[0076] When the settlement device 20P returns to the normal state from the paused state, it transmits information indicating that (hereinafter referred to as "return information") to the registration device 20R. When the registration device 20R receives the return information from the settlement device 20P, it lifts the prohibition on sending registration data to the settlement device 20P. In other words, when the settlement device 20P returns to the normal state, the registration device 20R lifts the prohibition on sending registration data.

[0077] (Regarding settlement during suspension) The settlement device 20P is capable of performing a first settlement process including a settlement process using cash, and a second settlement process not including a settlement process using cash. In the first settlement process, a settlement process using cash and a settlement process not including a settlement process using cash can be executed. The second settlement process is a settlement process using a payment method that does not generate change, such as a credit card or electronic money. In the normal state, the settlement device 20P executes the first settlement process. In the pause state, the settlement device 20P disables the first settlement process and enables the second settlement process.

[0078] For example, the registration device 20R accepts whether the payment is made using cash or a payment other than cash. If the accepted payment method is a payment method other than cash, the registration data can be transmitted to a settlement device 20P in a dormant state. In other words, the settlement device 20P is displayed as a selectable destination settlement device 20P. The display mode indicating the settlement device 20P may be different from the display modes indicating other settlement devices 20P. For example, the settlement device 20P may be displayed in a conspicuous manner so that it is selected in preference to other settlement devices 20P.

[0079] (Example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R) 5 and 6 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of a screen displayed on the clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. The screens shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 may be displayed on the monitor of the monitoring device 11, in which case the operation of the clerk may be accepted. In Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the clerk display unit 207 displays a payment details area 501, a total points area 502, a payment amount area 503, and a settlement related information area 504. The customer display unit 201 displays the same contents except for the settlement related information area 504.

[0080] The payment details area 501 displays the product name and price of the purchased product (in the figure, "XX T-shirt" and "XX toothbrush"). The total points area 502 shows the points of the payment, which is 2 points in the figure. The payment amount area 503 shows the total payment amount. The settlement related information area 504 shows information related to the settlement device 20P.

[0081] 5(A), settlement-related information area 504 displays settlement device information 510 and a confirmation screen 520. Settlement device information 510 includes selection buttons 511-513 corresponding to three settlement devices 20P1, 20P2, and P3.

[0082] The selection buttons 511-513 each include an indication of the status of the corresponding settlement device 20P, and an indication of potential destinations for sending the registration data (the portion displaying "Settlement Device P"). For example, the selection button 511 indicates that the first settlement device 20P1 is in a standby state, and is displayed as a potential destination for sending the registration data. The standby state is a normal state in which a customer has not yet made a settlement. When the selection button 511 is pressed, the registration device 20R sends the registration data to the first settlement device 20P1.

[0083] The selection button 512 indicates that the second settlement device 20P2 is in a near-full state, and displays candidates for the destination of the registration data. The selection button 512 is enabled for operation. Therefore, when the selection button 512 is pressed, the registration device 20R transmits the registration data to the second settlement device 20P2. Note that the near-full state is a state in which the number of bills is close to the allowable limit that can be stored in the first storage unit 401, but is still usable.

[0084] Furthermore, the selection button 513 indicates that the third settlement device 20P3 is in an offline state, and is displayed as being unselectable as a candidate destination for sending registration data. The offline state is a state in which the registration device 20R and the third settlement device 20P3 are not connected for communication. The operation of the selection button 513 is disabled. Therefore, even if the selection button 513 is pressed, the registration device 20R will not send the registration data to the third settlement device 20P3.

[0085] The confirmation screen 520 accepts a selection of whether or not to put the second settlement device 20P2 into a suspended state. Specifically, the confirmation screen 520 displays a button indicating that the second settlement device 20P2 is to be suspended (a "Yes" button) and a button indicating that the second settlement device 20P2 is not to be suspended (a "No" button).

[0086] When the "Yes" button is pressed on the confirmation screen 520, the registration device 20R sends an instruction to the second settlement device 20P2 to put it into a suspended state, and the second settlement device 20P2 goes into a suspended state. When the "No" button is pressed on the confirmation screen 520, the second settlement device 20P2 does not go into a suspended state. When the "Yes" button is pressed on the confirmation screen 520, the screen transitions to the screen shown in FIG. 5(B).

[0087] When the number of bills stored in the first storage unit 401 reaches the allowable limit (full state), the second settlement device 20P2 goes into a pause state and transmits information (pause information) to that effect. When the registration device 20R receives the pause information, it disables the operation of the selection button 512 corresponding to the second settlement device 20P2.

[0088] In FIG. 5(B), the selection button 512 indicates that the second settlement device 20P2 is in an inactive state (in the figure, it displays "Inactive") and is displayed as being unselectable as a possible destination for sending the registration data. The selection button 512 is invalid. Therefore, even if the selection button 512 is pressed, the registration device 20R will not send the registration data to the second settlement device 20P2.

[0089] The selection screen 530 accepts a selection of whether or not to cause the automatic change dispenser 204 of the second settlement apparatus 20P2 to perform overflow processing. Specifically, the selection screen 530 displays a button indicating that overflow processing is to be performed (the "Yes" button) and a button indicating that overflow processing is not to be performed (the "No" button). When the "No" button is pressed on the selection screen 530, overflow processing is not performed in the second settlement apparatus 20P2. In this case, manual collection is performed by a store clerk. The selection screen 530 may be displayed when any settlement apparatus 20P becomes near-full.

[0090] 5(B), an expected time until the overflow process is completed may be displayed. This expected time may be displayed when a button indicating that the overflow process is to be performed (the "Perform" button) is pressed, or may be displayed before the "Perform" button is pressed.

[0091] When the "Yes" button is pressed on the selection screen 530, the registration device 20R transmits an overflow start instruction to the second settlement device 20P2, and the overflow process is started in the second settlement device 20P2. When the "Yes" button is pressed on the selection screen 530, the screen transitions to the screen shown in FIG. 6(A).

[0092] FIG. 6(A) shows a screen during overflow processing displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. In FIG. 6(A), the selection button 512 indicates that the second settlement device 20P2 is in a paused state (in the figure, it displays "Overflow processing in progress"), and is displayed as being unavailable for selection as a possible destination for sending registration data. When the overflow processing is completed and the registration device 20R2 returns from the paused state to a normal state, the screen transitions to that shown in FIG. 6(B). Note that when "Overflow processing in progress" is displayed in FIG. 6(A), a countdown may be displayed to show the estimated time until the overflow processing is completed.

[0093] FIG. 6(B) shows a screen displayed on the store attendant display unit 207 of the registration device 20R when the second settlement device 20P2 returns to a normal state from a suspended state. The registration device 20R displays the screen shown in FIG. 6 by receiving the return information from the second settlement device 20P2. In FIG. 6, the selection button 512 indicates that the first settlement device 20P1 is in a standby state, and is displayed as a selectable candidate for the destination of the registration data. Note that the selection button 513 corresponding to the third settlement device 20P3 also indicates that the third settlement device 20P3 is in a standby state, and is displayed as a selectable candidate for the destination of the registration data, when the third settlement device 20P3 becomes online.

[0094] 5 and 6 include, but are not limited to, a display of candidate destinations for sending the registration data (settlement devices 20P) and a display indicating the status of the settlement device 20P. For example, the selection buttons 511-513 may only include a display of candidate destinations for sending the registration data and not include a display indicating the status of the settlement device 20P. In this case, the display indicating the status of the settlement device 20P may be, for example, a display of each of the characters "Settlement device P1: standby state", "Settlement device P2: overflow processing in progress", and "Settlement device P3: offline state" in the space of the settlement-related information area 504, that is, a display in the form of a list.

[0095] (Examples of screens displayed on each device) FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on each device. FIG. 7(A) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on settlement device 20P in the paused state. In FIG. 7(A), the customer display unit 201 of settlement device 20P displays that it is in the paused state. Note that the display shown in FIG. 7(A) may be displayed on at least either customer display unit 201 or store clerk display unit 207. In addition, a selection screen 700 is displayed on customer display unit 201 of settlement device 20P.

[0096] The selection screen 700 accepts a selection of whether or not to cause the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P to perform overflow processing. Specifically, the selection screen 700 displays a button indicating that overflow processing should be performed (a "Yes" button) and a button indicating that overflow processing should not be performed (a "No" button). The selection screen 700 is displayed when the settlement device 20P becomes near-full.

[0097] When the "Yes" button is pressed on the selection screen 700, the settlement device 20P causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to perform overflow processing. When the "No" button is pressed on the selection screen 700, the settlement device 20P does not perform overflow processing. In this case, the clerk will manually collect the money. Note that the selection screen 700 may be displayed when the clerk logs in to prevent a customer from operating the selection screen 700.

[0098] FIG. 7(B) is an example of a screen displayed on the monitor of the monitoring device 11. The status of each settlement device 20P is displayed on the monitor of the monitoring device 11. FIG. 7(B) shows that the first settlement device 20P1 is in a standby state, the second settlement device 20P2 is in a near-end state, and the third settlement device P3 is in an offline state. When the second settlement device 20P2 is in a near-end state, a warning is displayed to alert the store staff. When the second settlement device 20P2 is in a paused state or when overflow processing is performed, the monitor of the monitoring device 11 also displays the corresponding information.

[0099] (An example of the operation of the POS system 1) Fig. 8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1. In Fig. 8, when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full (step S801), the settlement device 20P notifies the fact that it has become near-full (step S802). Then, the settlement device 20P transmits near-full information (information indicating that it has become near-full) to the registration device 20R (step S803). The monitoring device 11 manages the remaining change information of each POS register 20. Therefore, the near-full information is not limited to being transmitted from the settlement device 20P to the registration device 20R, but may also be transmitted from the monitoring device 11 to the registration device.

[0100] When the registration device 20R receives the near-full information from the settlement device 20P, it notifies the settlement device 20P that it has entered a near-full state (step S804). Then, the registration device 20R displays a confirmation screen 520 (see FIG. 5(A)) for putting the settlement device 20P into a suspended state (step S805). When the registration device 20R receives an instruction to put the settlement device 20P into a suspended state on the confirmation screen 520, it transmits a suspension instruction (information indicating that the settlement device 20P is to be put into a suspended state) to the settlement device 20P (step S806).

[0101] When the settlement device 20P receives the pause instruction from the registration device 20R, it enters a pause state (step S807) and transmits pause information (information indicating a pause state) to the registration device 20R (step S808). When the registration device 20R receives the pause information from the settlement device 20P, it prohibits transmission of registration data to the settlement device 20P (step S809). Then, the registration device 20R displays a selection screen 530 (see FIG. 5(B)) for prompting the settlement device 20P whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S810). Then, when the registration device 20R accepts the start of overflow processing on the selection screen 530, it transmits an overflow start instruction (information for starting overflow processing) to the settlement device 20P (step S811).

[0102] Furthermore, when the settlement device 20P is put into a paused state, the settlement device 20P also displays a selection screen 700 (see FIG. 7(A)) for asking whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S812). If the start of overflow processing is accepted on the selection screen 700, or an instruction to start overflow is received from the registration device 20R, the settlement device 20P causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to start overflow processing (step S813). If the start of overflow processing is not accepted on the selection screen 700, or an instruction to start overflow is not received, the near-full state is resolved by manual collection by a store clerk (step S813). Note that in manual collection, the settlement device 20P may be configured to accept the denomination and number of bills specified by the store clerk.

[0103] Then, when the near-full state is resolved, the settlement device 20P returns from the hibernation state to the normal state (step S814). Next, the settlement device 20P transmits recovery information (information indicating that the normal state has been restored from the hibernation state) to the registration device 20R (step S815), and ends the series of processes. Upon receiving the recovery information from the settlement device 20P, the registration device 20R releases the prohibition on transmission of registration data to the settlement device 20P (step S816), and ends the series of processes.

[0104] (An example of a process performed by the settlement device 20P according to the first embodiment) Next, an example of the process performed by the settlement device 20P according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figures 9A and 9B. Figures 9A and 9B are flowcharts showing an example of the process performed by the settlement device 20P according to embodiment 1. Note that the process shown in the flowcharts of Figures 9A and 9B is constantly (periodically at very short time intervals) started by the settlement device 20P.

[0105] 9A, the settlement device 20P determines whether the automatic change dispenser 204 is in a near-full state (step S901). If the automatic change dispenser 204 is not in a near-full state or is already in a near-full state (step S901: NO), the settlement device 20P proceeds to step S904.

[0106] When the automatic change dispenser 204 is in a near-full state (step S901: YES), the settlement device 20P notifies the automatic change dispenser 204 that it is in a near-full state (step S902). Then, the settlement device 20P transmits information that the automatic change dispenser 204 is in a near-full state (information indicating that it is in a near-full state) to the registration device 20R (step S903).

[0107] The settlement device 20P then determines whether or not a pause instruction has been received from the registration device 20R (step S904). If a pause instruction has not been received (step S904: NO), the settlement device 20P proceeds to step S908. If a pause instruction has been received (step S904: YES), the settlement device 20P enters a paused state (step S905). The settlement device 20P then transmits pause information to the registration device 20R (step S906). Next, the settlement device 20P displays a selection screen for whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S907).

[0108] The settlement device 20P then determines whether or not an overflow start instruction has been received from the registration device 20R (step S908). If an overflow start instruction has been received (step S908: YES), the settlement device 20P proceeds to step S910. If an overflow start instruction has not been received (step S908: NO), the settlement device 20P determines whether or not a request to start overflow processing has been accepted on the selection screen for whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S909). If a request to start overflow processing has been accepted (step S909: YES), the settlement device 20P starts overflow processing (step S910).

[0109] On the other hand, if the start of the overflow process is not accepted (step S909: NO) and the overflow start instruction is not received in step S908, the process proceeds to step S911. In this case, depending on the congestion situation, the store clerk goes to the settlement device 20P that is inactive and manually collects the bills.

[0110] Thereafter, the settlement device 20P judges whether the near-full state has been resolved (step S911). If the near-full state has not been resolved (step S911: NO), the settlement device 20P ends the series of processes. On the other hand, if the near-full state has been resolved (step S911: YES), the settlement device 20P judges whether the current state is a dormant state (step S912). If the current state is not a dormant state (step S912: NO), that is, if it is a normal state, the settlement device 20P ends the series of processes.

[0111] If the current state is the pause state (step S912: YES), the settlement device 20P returns to the normal state (step S913). Then, the settlement device 20P transmits return information (information indicating that the state has returned from the pause state to the normal state) to the registration device 20R (step S914).

[0112] The settlement device 20P then determines whether or not it has received registration data from the registration device 20R (step S915). If the settlement device 20P has not received registration data (step S915: NO), it ends the series of processes. If the settlement device 20P has received registration data (step S915: YES), it determines whether or not it is in a dormant state (step S916). If the settlement device 20P is in a dormant state (step S916: YES), it performs a settlement process (second settlement process) using a method other than cash (step S917), and ends the series of processes.

[0113] If the settlement device 20P is not in a suspended state (step S916: NO), it performs the settlement process (first settlement process) using a method including cash (step S918) and ends the series of processes. Note that a method including cash is a normal payment method including cash, credit card, electronic money, etc. Furthermore, when the settlement device 20P completes the settlement process in step S917 or step S918, it transmits information regarding the settlement process to the registration device 20R, including information indicating that the settlement process has been completed and details of the settlement process (payment method, deposited amount, change, etc.).

[0114] (An example of processing performed by the registration device 20R according to the first embodiment) Next, an example of a process performed by the registration device 20R according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B are flowcharts showing an example of a process performed by the registration device 20R according to the first embodiment. Note that the process shown in the flowcharts of Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B is constantly (periodically at very short time intervals) started by the registration device 20R.

[0115] 10, the registration device 20R determines whether or not near-full information has been received from the settlement device 20P (step S1001). If near-full information has not been received from the settlement device 20P (step S1001: NO), the registration device 20R proceeds to step S1004.

[0116] When the registration device 20R receives the near-full information from the settlement device 20P (step S1001: YES), the registration device 20R notifies the user that the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P has become near-full (step S1002). Then, the registration device 20R displays a confirmation screen 520 (see FIG. 5(A)) for putting the settlement device 20P into a suspended state (step S1003).

[0117] Then, the registration device 20R judges whether or not the confirmation button has been accepted to put the registration device 20R into a suspended state (step S1004). If the registration device 20R has not accepted the request to put the registration device 20R into a suspended state (step S1004: NO), the process proceeds to step S1006. If the registration device 20R has accepted the request to put the registration device 20R into a suspended state (step S1004: YES), the registration device 20R transmits a suspension instruction (information indicating that the registration device 20R is to be put into a suspended state) to the settlement device 20P (step S1005).

[0118] Then, the registration device 20R judges whether or not it has received pause information from the settlement device 20P (step S1006). If the registration device 20R has not received pause information (step S1006: NO), the process proceeds to step S1009. If the registration device 20R has received pause information (step S1006: YES), the registration device 20R prohibits the transmission of registration data to the settlement device 20P (step S1007). Then, the registration device 20R displays a selection screen 530 (see FIG. 5(B)) for prompting the settlement device 20P whether or not to perform overflow processing (step S1008). Then, the registration device 20R judges whether or not it has accepted the start of overflow processing on the selection screen (step S1009).

[0119] If the registration device 20R does not accept the start of overflow processing (step S1009: NO), the registration device 20R proceeds to step S1011. If the registration device 20R accepts the start of overflow processing (step S1009: YES), the registration device 20R transmits an overflow start instruction (information for starting overflow processing) to the settlement device 20P (step S1010).

[0120] Then, the registration device 20R judges whether or not the registration of the product is completed, for example, by pressing the subtotal key (step S1011). If the registration of the product is not completed (step S1011: NO), the registration device 20R ends the series of processes. If the registration of the product is completed (step S1011: YES), the registration device 20R judges whether or not there is a settlement device 20P to which the transmission of the registration data is prohibited (step S1012). If there is no settlement device 20P to which the transmission of the registration data is prohibited (step S1012: NO), the registration device 20R enables the transmission of the registration data to the currently connected settlement device 20P, displays candidates for the transmission destination on the store clerk side display unit 207 (step S1013), and proceeds to step S1017.

[0121] On the other hand, if there is a settlement device 20P for which the transmission of registration data is prohibited (step S1012: YES), the registration device 20R judges whether the customer's payment at the time of settlement is cash or not (step S1014). When making the judgment in step S1014, the registration device 20R displays a screen for accepting the customer's payment method. This screen is a selection screen for accepting the selection of whether to pay by cash or to pay by credit card or IC card without change. The selection screen is displayed on the customer side display unit 201, and may be a screen that can accept operations from the customer. The registration device 20R judges whether the customer's payment at the time of settlement is cash or not by accepting operations from the selection screen.

[0122] If the payment is in cash (step S1014: YES), the registration device 20R disables the transmission of the registration data to the settlement device 20P in a suspended state, displays candidates for the transmission destination (step S1015), and proceeds to step S1017. If the payment is not in cash (step S1014: NO), the registration device 20R enables the transmission of the registration data to the settlement device 20P in a suspended state, and displays candidates for the transmission destination (step S1016). Then, the registration device 20R determines whether a transmission destination has been selected from the displayed candidates (step S1017). If a transmission destination has not been selected from the displayed candidates (step S1017: NO), the registration device 20R proceeds to step S1019.

[0123] When a destination is selected from the displayed candidates (step S1017: YES), the registration device 20R transmits the registration data to the selected settlement device 20P (step S1018). Then, the registration device 20R judges whether or not recovery information (information indicating that the normal state has been restored from the paused state) has been received from the settlement device 20P (step S1019). When recovery information has not been received (step S1019: NO), the registration device 20R ends the series of processes. When recovery information has been received (step S1019: YES), the registration device 20R releases the prohibition on transmission of the registration data to the settlement device 20P (step S1020), and ends the series of processes.

[0124] In the first embodiment described above, when the amount of money stored in the first storage unit 401 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the settlement device 20P can be put into a suspended state, and when the settlement device 20P is in a suspended state, the registration device 20R is prohibited from transmitting the registration data of the product. As a result, when the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P is in a near-full state, the settlement device 20P can be put into a suspended state, and settlement cannot be performed at the suspended settlement device 20P. Therefore, even if the settlement device 20P is in a near-full state, it is possible to intentionally leave the settlement device 20P alone for a while. As a result, the clerk can perform an operation to release the suspended state when he or she has free time, and therefore, the clerk's registration operation of the product can be prevented from being hindered. Therefore, the decrease in the efficiency of the clerk's work can be prevented.

[0125] In the first embodiment, when the amount of money stored in the first storage unit 401 falls below a predetermined amount by being stored in the second storage unit 402, the settlement device 20P returns from the paused state to the normal state, and the registration device 20R cancels the prohibition on sending registration data. Therefore, when the full state is resolved, settlement can be performed at the settlement device 20P.

[0126] In the first embodiment, the automatic change dispenser 204 is configured to perform a recovery process (overflow process) in which a portion of the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 is recovered into the second storage unit 402 when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or exceeds a predetermined amount. This makes it possible to eliminate the near-full state without the need for a store clerk to manually recover the coins. This reduces the workload of the store clerk when returning the settlement device 20P from the paused state to the normal state.

[0127] Also, in the first embodiment, the settlement device 20P is configured to receive from a store clerk a selection as to whether or not to have the automatic change dispenser 204 perform a collection process. As a result, depending on the structure of the automatic change dispenser 204, manual collection by a store clerk may take less time to resolve the near-full state than overflow processing, but in such a case, when the machine is relatively empty, it is more efficient to have the store clerk collect the changes manually. Therefore, the near-full state can be resolved efficiently.

[0128] In addition, in the first embodiment, when the registration device 20R receives a selection to perform collection processing from a store clerk, information indicating that is sent to the settlement device 20P. This allows the settlement device 20P to perform collection processing in response to an instruction from the registration device 20R. Therefore, the near-full state can be resolved without the store clerk having to go to the settlement device 20P. This reduces the work load on the store clerk.

[0129] In the first embodiment, the settlement device 20P is configured to disable the first settlement process including the settlement process using cash and enable the second settlement process not including the settlement process using cash in the idle state. This allows the settlement device 20P in the idle state to be used as a settlement device 20P dedicated to cashless payment, thereby improving settlement efficiency.

[0130] In the first embodiment, the settlement device 20P is configured to switch from the normal state to a suspended state in response to an operation by a store clerk when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or exceeds a predetermined amount. As a result, even if the automatic change dispenser 204 of the settlement device 20P is in a near-full state, it can be switched to a suspended state in response to the judgment of the store clerk, since it is possible to use the device in the near-full state. This improves the convenience of the settlement device 20P.

[0131] (Modification of the first embodiment) A modified example of the first embodiment will be described below. In the first embodiment described above, when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the automatic change device 20P is switched from the normal state to the pause state in response to an operation by a store clerk. In a modified example of the first embodiment, in addition to or instead of such a configuration, when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the automatic change device 20P may be automatically switched from the normal state to the pause state. Here, when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the automatic change device 20P may be switched from the normal state to the pause state. When this predetermined amount is set as the "set number for the full state", the automatic change device 20P may be automatically switched to the pause state when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes full.

[0132] The predetermined amount may include a first predetermined amount (e.g., a set number for a near-full state) and a second predetermined amount (e.g., a set number for a full state). In this case, the settlement device 20P may enter a pause state in response to an operation by a store clerk when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or greater than the first predetermined amount. The settlement device 20P may automatically enter a pause state from a normal state when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or greater than the second predetermined amount.

[0133] With this configuration, the settlement device 20P can automatically enter a pause state when the amount of currency stored in the first storage unit 401 becomes equal to or exceeds a predetermined amount. This reduces the number of times the store clerk needs to check and operate the device, thereby reducing the work load on the store clerk.

[0134] (Embodiment 2) A second embodiment will be described below. In the second embodiment, the contents described in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description will be omitted as appropriate. In the first embodiment described above, when the settlement device 20P is in a suspended state, the registration device 20R is simply prohibited from transmitting registration data. In the second embodiment, in addition to or instead of such a configuration, a configuration will be described in which surplus money from a POS register 20 that is in a near-full state is deposited into another POS register 20 that is in a near-end state.

[0135] (Functional Configuration of POS System 1 of the Second Embodiment) First, a functional configuration of the POS system 1 of the embodiment 2 will be described. The POS system 1 according to the embodiment 2 includes one or more registration devices 20R, a plurality of settlement devices 20P, and a plurality of automatic change dispensers 204 connected to the plurality of settlement devices 20P, respectively. The plurality of automatic change dispensers 204 include a first automatic change dispenser 204 and a second automatic change dispenser 204.

[0136] The first automatic change dispenser 204 is an automatic change dispenser 204 that can dispense currency, for example, an automatic change dispenser 204 in a near-full state. The second automatic change dispenser 204 is an automatic change dispenser 204 that can deposit currency, for example, an automatic change dispenser 204 in a near-end state. Note that the second automatic change dispenser 204 is not limited to an automatic change dispenser 204 in a near-end state, and may be an automatic change dispenser 204 in which the denomination of the deposited currency has not reached the set number of surplus currency.

[0137] Here, the monitoring device 11 acquires information about currency in the first automatic change dispenser 204 and the second automatic change dispenser 204. The information about currency is, specifically, information for depositing currency from the first automatic change dispenser 204 to the second automatic change dispenser 204. For example, the information about currency includes information about a denomination that has become near-end in the second automatic change dispenser 204, information about the number of coins of that denomination that are in short supply, information identifying the second automatic change dispenser 204, and the like. The information about currency also includes information about a denomination that has become near-full in the first automatic change dispenser 204, information about the number of coins of that denomination that are in surplus, information identifying the first automatic change dispenser 204, and the like.

[0138] The information on currency is generated based on the number of remaining bills of each denomination, remaining change information, deposit history information, and withdrawal history information of the multiple automatic change dispensers 204. The information on currency is generated, for example, by the monitoring device 11. Note that the information on currency may be generated by any one of the multiple POS registers 20.

[0139] The POS register 20 performs control (hereinafter referred to as "recovery control") to recover some of the currency in the first storage unit 401 of the first automatic change dispenser 204 to the second storage unit 402 of the first automatic change dispenser 204 based on the information about the currency. The recovery control is a control for making up for the shortage of currency of a denomination in the second automatic change dispenser 204 from the surplus currency of the first automatic change dispenser 204.

[0140] Specifically, the collection control is to carry out the following controls: For example, for the relevant denomination, performing overflow processing for the number of coins to be replenished in the POS register 20 that is in a near-full state, and issuing various notifications (notification prompting the user to select whether or not to perform overflow processing, notification that overflow processing will be performed automatically, notification prompting the store clerk to perform manual collection, notification specifying the POS register 20 in a near-end state, notification of the number of coins to be replenished in the POS register 20 in a near-end state, etc.).

[0141] The overflow process in the collection control may be automatically performed by the POS register 20 that has become near-full. Various notifications in the collection control are given by display or sound by the POS register 20. By giving such notifications, the coins collected in the second storage unit 402 of the POS register 20 that has become near-full can be moved to the first storage unit 401 of the POS register 20 that has become near-end.

[0142] (Regarding the number of coins) Next, the set number of coins managed by the automatic change dispenser 204 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the set number for each denomination. Setting table 1100 in Fig. 11 shows the set number for the near-end state, the set number of surplus coins, and the set number for the near-full state for each denomination in the first storage unit 401.

[0143] The set number for the near-end state is the number at which the POS register 20 recognizes that the change is in a near-end state. The set number of surplus money is the number that can be moved to the automatic change dispenser 204 of another POS register 20. The set number for the near-full state is the number at which the POS register 20 recognizes that the change is in a near-full state. The information shown in FIG. 11 is stored in a location that can be referenced by the monitoring device 11. Note that the monitoring device 11 may store the information shown in FIG. 11 within its own device.

[0144] (An example of the number of coins currently held by each denomination at each POS register 20) Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the currently held number of coins for each denomination for each POS register 20. Fig. 12(A) shows the currently held number of coins in a first automatic change dispenser 204 connected to a certain POS register 20 (e.g., first settlement device 20P1). Fig. 12(B) shows the currently held number of coins in a second automatic change dispenser 204 connected to a certain POS register 20 (e.g., second settlement device 20P2). Fig. 12(C) shows the currently held number of coins in an automatic change dispenser 204 connected to a certain POS register 20 (another settlement device 20Pn).

[0145] As shown in Fig. 12(A), the automatic change dispenser 204 of the first settlement apparatus 20P1 is in a near-full state for 50 yen. Also, as shown in Fig. 12(B), the automatic change dispenser 204 of the second settlement apparatus 20P2 is in a near-end state for 50 yen. Also, as shown in Fig. 12(C), the automatic change dispenser 204 of the nth settlement apparatus 20P is in a normal state (neither near-full nor near-end state) for all denominations.

[0146] 12, in order to eliminate the near-full state of the automatic change dispenser 204 of the first settlement device 20P1, the coins stored in the first storage unit 401 can be collected into the second storage unit 402. In addition, in order to eliminate the near-end state of the automatic change dispenser 204 of the second settlement device 20P2, the coin (50 yen) collected in the second storage unit 402 in the first settlement device 20P1 can be moved to the first storage unit 401 of the second settlement device 20P2.

[0147] To be more specific, for example, the number of 50 yen bills at the first settlement device 20P1 is 202, which is 62 more than the surplus set number (120). Also, the number of 50 yen bills at the second settlement device 20P2 is 48, which is 2 less than the near-end set number (50). Therefore, by transferring a predetermined number (e.g., 62 bills) from the first settlement device 20P1 to the second settlement device 20P2, it is possible to resolve the near-full state at the first settlement device 20P1 and the near-end state at the second settlement device 20P2.

[0148] The information shown in Fig. 12(A) to (C) is stored in a location that can be referenced by the monitoring device 11. For example, the monitoring device 11 may store the information shown in Fig. 12(A) to (C) in its own device. For example, the monitoring device 11 may make a request (change remaining information request) to each POS register 20 on the LAN, receive information on the number of coins held by denomination (change remaining information) from each POS register 20 on the LAN, and store the information in its own device. Also, each POS register 20 on the LAN may transmit the change remaining information to the monitoring device 11 when the number of coins held by denomination changes.

[0149] Each POS register 20 transmits transaction information to the store controller 10. Therefore, the store controller 10 can obtain the remaining change information of each POS register 20 based on the transaction information. Therefore, the monitoring device 11 may receive the remaining change information of each settlement machine from the store controller 10, instead of receiving the remaining change information from each POS register 20 individually.

[0150] When a certain POS register 20 (first settlement device 20P1) is in a near-full state, the monitoring device 11 selects a POS register 20 to be replenished. The POS register 20 to be replenished is, for example, the POS register 20 (second settlement device 20P2) that is in a near-end state.

[0151] The POS register 20 to be the replenishment destination may be selected by a store clerk. In this case, for example, the POS register 20 (registration device 20R or settlement device 20P) may receive information indicating the first settlement device 20P1 capable of dispensing the replenishment money from the monitoring device 11. Then, the POS register 20 (registration device 20R or settlement device 20P) may display the first settlement device 20P1 capable of dispensing the replenishment money to the store clerk as a candidate from which the replenishment money can be obtained, and may accept the first settlement device 20P1 to be the recipient from among the candidates, from the store clerk.

[0152] The monitoring device 11 is not limited to managing the number of coins in each POS register 20 (each automatic change dispenser 204). For example, the monitoring device 11 may manage the number of coins in any one of the POS registers 20 or the POS register 20 written by the store controller 10.

[0153] (Example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R) FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the clerk display unit 207 of the registration device 20R. The screen shown in FIG. 13 may be displayed on the monitor of the monitoring device 11, and in this case, the monitoring device 11 may receive an operation by the clerk. In FIG. 13, the clerk display unit 207 displays the current number of coins held by the first settlement device 20P1 and the current number of coins held by the second settlement device 20P2. Of the current number of coins held by the first settlement device 20P1, the denomination (50 yen) that is in a near-full state is displayed in a display mode different from that of the other denominations. Also, of the current number of coins held by the second settlement device 20P2, the denomination (50 yen) that is in a near-end state is displayed in a display mode different from that of the other denominations.

[0154] The selection screen 1300 includes a number selection button 1301 and a decision button 1302. The number selection button 1301 accepts a change in the number of coins to be moved from the first settlement device 20P1 to the second settlement device 20P2. In the figure, it is shown that 62 coins of 50 yen denomination are to be moved. The number selection button 1301 includes a "+" button that accepts an addition of the number of coins, and a "-" button that accepts a subtraction of the number of coins. Note that in FIG. 13, the set number of coins in a near-end state, the set number of surplus coins, and the set number of coins in a near-full state may also be displayed.

[0155] The decision button 1302 accepts a selection of whether or not to cause the automatic change dispenser 204 of the first settlement apparatus 20P1 to perform overflow processing. Specifically, the decision button 1302 displays a button indicating that overflow processing is to be performed (the "Yes" button) and a button indicating that overflow processing is not to be performed (the "No" button). When the "No" button of the decision buttons 1302 is pressed, overflow processing is not performed in the first settlement apparatus 20P1. In this case, manual collection is performed by a store clerk. The selection screen 1300 may be displayed when any settlement apparatus 20P becomes near-full.

[0156] 13, a register selection button 1310 and a replenishment button 1320 are displayed on the store clerk display unit 207. When the register selection button 1310 is pressed, the number of coins currently held in other POS registers 20, other candidates for obtaining replenishment money, other candidates for replenishment destinations for replenishment money, etc. are displayed in a selectable manner. When the replenishment button 1320 is pressed, it is determined that replenishment will not be performed between POS registers 20, but will be performed separately.

[0157] (One example of the operation of the POS system 1 according to the second embodiment) Fig. 14 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1 according to the second embodiment. In Fig. 14, a first settlement device 20P1 (near-full state), a registration device 20R, a monitoring device 11, and a second settlement device 20P2 (near-end state) are used for explanation.

[0158] 14, when the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full (step S1401), the first settlement device 20P1 notifies the fact that the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full (step S1402). Then, the first settlement device 20P1 transmits near-full information (information indicating that the automatic change dispenser 204 becomes near-full) to the registration device 20R (step S1403).

[0159] The monitoring device 11 manages the remaining change information of each POS register 20. Therefore, the near-full information is not limited to being transmitted from the settlement device 20P to the registration device 20R, but may be transmitted from the monitoring device 11 to the registration device.

[0160] When the registration device 20R receives the near-full information from the first settlement device 20P1, it notifies the first settlement device 20P1 that it has entered a near-full state (step S1404). Then, the registration device 20R displays a confirmation screen 520 (see FIG. 5(A)) for putting the first settlement device 20P1 into a suspend state (step S1405). When the registration device 20R receives an instruction to put the first settlement device 20P1 into a suspend state on the confirmation screen 520, it transmits a suspend instruction (information indicating that the first settlement device 20P1 is to be put into a suspend state) to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1406).

[0161] When the first settlement device 20P1 receives the pause instruction from the registration device 20R, it goes into a pause state (step S1407) and transmits pause information (information indicating the pause state) to the registration device 20R (step S1408). When the registration device 20R receives the pause information from the first settlement device 20P1, it prohibits transmission of registration data to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1409).

[0162] The monitoring device 11 detects a settlement device 20P (first settlement device 20P1) in a near-full state (step S1410). The detection of a settlement device 20P in a near-full state is performed based on remaining change information, etc. However, this is not limited to the above, and a settlement device 20P in a near-full state may be detected by receiving near-full information from the first settlement device 20P1.

[0163] The monitoring device 11 then requests the remaining change information from the multiple settlement devices 20P including the second settlement device 20P2 (step S1411). Note that since the monitoring device 11 constantly manages the remaining change information of each settlement device 20P, if the monitoring device 11 has obtained the latest remaining change information, it does not have to request the remaining change information from the multiple settlement devices 20P including P (in the figure, the second settlement device 20P2) at the timing of step S1411.

[0164] When the second settlement device 20P2 receives the request for change remaining information, it acquires the change remaining information of the automatic change dispenser 204 (step S1413). Then, the second settlement device 20P2 transmits the acquired change remaining information to the monitoring device 11 (step S1414). Then, the monitoring device 11 generates information on the currency of the first settlement device 20P1 (first automatic change dispenser 204) and the second settlement device 20P2 (second automatic change dispenser 204), and transmits it to the registration device 20R (step S1415).

[0165] When the registration device 20R receives information about the currency from the monitoring device 11, it performs collection control. For example, the registration device 20R displays the denomination and number of currency that are in short supply at the second settlement device 20P2 on the store clerk display unit 207 (step S1416). This allows the store clerk to understand that the second settlement device 20P2 is in a near-end state. If there is no settlement device 20P in a near-end state, the registration device 20R may simply notify that fact.

[0166] Then, if the denomination that has become near-end in the second settlement device 20P2 is the same as the denomination that has become near-full in the first settlement device 20P1, the registration device 20R transmits a withdrawal instruction to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1417).

[0167] When the first settlement device 20P1 receives the withdrawal instruction, it displays a selection screen for overflow processing and a message urging the user to withdraw money (the second settlement device 20P2 that is near-end and the shortfall in the second settlement device 20P2) (step S1418). The screen and display in step S1418 are, for example, a screen equivalent to the selection screen 1300 shown in FIG. 13.

[0168] The screen and display in step S1418 may be displayed by a store clerk logging in. The display in step S1418 allows a store clerk who has visited the first settlement device 20P1 to start overflow processing and to grasp the second settlement device 20P2 that is near-end and the shortfall in the second settlement device 20P2. If there is no settlement device 20P that is near-end, the first settlement device 20P1 may not display the overflow processing selection screen 700.

[0169] The registration device 20R also displays a selection screen 1300 (see FIG. 13) for prompting the first settlement device 20P1 to perform overflow processing (step S1419). When the registration device 20R accepts the start of overflow processing on the selection screen 1300, it transmits an overflow start instruction (information for starting overflow processing) with the contents set on the selection screen 1300 to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1420).

[0170] Furthermore, when the first settlement device 20P1 accepts the start of overflow processing on the selection screen 700 (see FIG. 7(A)) for whether or not to perform overflow processing, or receives an instruction to start overflow from the registration device 20R, it causes the automatic change dispenser 204 to start overflow processing (step S1421). When the first settlement device 20P1 does not accept the start of overflow processing on the selection screen or does not receive an instruction to start overflow, it causes the near-full state to be resolved by manual collection by a store clerk (step S1421). In manual collection, the first settlement device 20P1 may be configured to accept the denomination and number of bills specified by the store clerk.

[0171] Then, when the near-full state is resolved, the first settlement device 20P1 returns from the hibernation state to the normal state (step S1422). Next, the first settlement device 20P1 transmits recovery information (information indicating that the normal state has been restored from the hibernation state) to the registration device 20R (step S1423). Upon receiving the recovery information from the first settlement device 20P1, the registration device 20R releases the prohibition on transmission of registration data to the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1424), and ends the series of processes.

[0172] The first settlement device 20P1 also stores dispensing information indicating the denomination and number of bills collected by the overflow process or manual collection (step S1425).Then, the first settlement device 20P1 transmits the dispensing information to the monitoring device 11 (step S1426), and ends the series of processes.

[0173] When the monitoring device 11 receives the withdrawal information from the first settlement device 20P1, it transmits a deposit acceptance instruction to the second settlement device 20P2 (step S1427). Then, the monitoring device 11 stores the withdrawal history information of the first settlement device 20P1 (step S1428).

[0174] When the second settlement device 20P2 receives a deposit acceptance instruction from the monitoring device 11, it accepts the deposit (step S1429). Then, the second settlement device 20P2 transmits deposit information indicating the denomination and number of coins deposited to the monitoring device 11 (step S1430), and ends the series of processes. When the monitoring device 11 receives the deposit information from the first settlement device 20P1, it stores the deposit history information of the second settlement device 20P2 (step S1431), and ends the series of processes.

[0175] In the second embodiment described above, control is performed to recover some of the coins in the first storage unit 401 of the first automatic change dispenser 204 to the second storage unit 402 of the first automatic change dispenser 204 based on information about the coins in a certain POS register 20 (the first automatic change dispenser 204) and another POS register 20 (the second automatic change dispenser 204). This makes it possible to efficiently move coins in the first automatic change dispenser 204 that is near full to the second automatic change dispenser 204 that is near end, for example. This reduces the burden on store clerks involved in depositing and dispensing coins in the POS system 1.

[0176] The following supplementary notes are disclosed below. (Appendix 1) a registration device operated by a store clerk to perform product registration processing; a payment device that is operated by a customer to perform payment processing for the products registered by the registration device; A product sales data processing system comprising: The settlement device includes: The change machine is connected to a change dispenser including a first storage unit for storing currency and a second storage unit capable of storing the currency stored in the first storage unit, When the amount of currency stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the machine can be switched from a normal state in which the settlement process is possible to a paused state in which the settlement process is impossible, the registration device prohibits, when the settlement device is in the suspended state, the registration data of the product registered by the registration process from being transmitted to the settlement device; A product sales data processing system comprising: (Appendix 2) When the coins stored in the first storage unit are stored in the second storage unit and the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit falls below the predetermined amount, the settlement device returns from the pause state to the normal state, The registration device releases the prohibition when the settlement device returns to the normal state. 2. A product sales data processing system according to claim 1. (Appendix 3) When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the change dispenser performs a recovery process of recovering a portion of the coins stored in the first storage unit into the second storage unit. 3. A product sales data processing system according to claim 1 or 2. (Appendix 4) The settlement device includes: accepting a selection from a store clerk as to whether or not to cause the change dispenser to perform the recovery process; 4. A product sales data processing system according to claim 3. (Appendix 5) The registration device includes: receiving a selection from a store clerk as to whether or not to cause the change dispenser to perform the recovery process; When the selection to perform the collection process is accepted, information indicating the selection is sent to the settlement device. 5. A product sales data processing system according to claim 3 or 4. (Appendix 6) The settlement device includes: It is possible to perform a first settlement process including a settlement process using cash and a second settlement process not including a settlement process using cash, In the pause state, the first settlement process is disabled and the second settlement process is enabled. 6. The product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. (Appendix 7) The product sales data processing system includes a plurality of settlement devices and a plurality of change dispensers respectively connected to the plurality of settlement devices; the plurality of change dispensers include a first change dispenser capable of dispensing currency and a second change dispenser capable of receiving currency, The registration device or any one of the settlement devices performs control to recover a part of the currency in the first storage unit of the first change machine into the second storage unit of the first change machine based on information on the currency of the first change machine and the second change machine. 6. The product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. (Appendix 8) The settlement device includes: When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the normal state is changed to the pause state in response to an operation by a store clerk. 8. The product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7. (Appendix 9) The settlement device includes: When the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the normal state is automatically changed to the pause state. 9. The product sales data processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8. (Appendix 10) a registration device operated by a store clerk to perform product registration processing; a payment device that is operated by a customer to perform payment processing for the products registered by the registration device; Equipped with A product sales data processing method for a product sales data processing system connected to a change dispenser, the change dispenser including a first storage unit for storing coins and a second storage unit capable of storing the coins stored in the first storage unit, comprising: The settlement device includes a step of changing from a normal state in which the settlement process is possible to a pause state in which the settlement process is impossible when the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, a step of prohibiting, by the registration device, when the settlement device is in the suspended state, transmission of registration data of the product registered by the registration process to the settlement device; A merchandise sales data processing method comprising: (Appendix 11) a registration device operated by a store clerk to perform product registration processing; a payment device that is operated by a customer to perform payment processing for the products registered by the registration device; Equipped with A product sales data processing system connected to a change dispenser, the settlement device having a first storage unit for storing coins and a second storage unit capable of storing the coins stored in the first storage unit, comprising a program for causing a first computer to function as the settlement device and a second computer to function as the registration device, the program comprising: The first computer, When the amount of currency stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the device is caused to function so as to change from a normal state in which the settlement process is possible to a paused state in which the settlement process is impossible; The second computer, prohibiting, when the settlement device is in the suspended state, the registration data of the products registered by the registration process from being transmitted to the settlement device; The program is characterized by causing the program to function as follows.

[0177] The program for implementing the POS system 1 and the POS register 20 described above may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read into a computer system for execution. 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 storage devices that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) in a computer system that becomes a server or 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). [Explanation of symbols]

[0178] 1. POS system 10…Store Controller 20...POS register 201…Customer side display section 202…Customer side scanner section 203…Card payment department 204…Automatic change machine 205...Audio output section 206…Printing Department 207...Staff side display section 208…Key operation section 209…Store clerk scanner 301...CPU 302...ROM 303...RAM 304...Hard disk 401…First storage section 402…Second storage section

Claims

1. The device includes a first storage section for storing currency, and a second storage section capable of storing the currency stored in the first storage section, When the amount of currency stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the device is enabled to change from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a paused state in which the settlement processing is impossible, In the pause state, a part of the currency stored in the first storage unit is collected into the second storage unit. A settlement device characterized by:

2. The customer pays for the products registered by the store clerk.

2. The settlement device according to claim 1 .

3. A computer of a settlement device including a first storage unit for storing currency and a second storage unit capable of storing the currency stored in the first storage unit, When the amount of currency stored in the first storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the device is enabled to change from a normal state in which settlement processing is possible to a paused state in which the settlement processing is impossible, In the pause state, a part of the currency stored in the first storage unit is made recoverable in the second storage unit. A program characterized by executing a process.

4. The customer pays for the products registered by the store clerk.

4. The program according to claim 3.

Images