Reception device and program thereof

Abstract

To allow the number of manned reception units and the number of self-service reception units to be switched as desired within a limited number of units.SOLUTION: A reception device displays a mode selection screen on a display device to select whether an operating mode is a manned mode in which an employee performs input of first data and second data pertaining to a reception function at entry, which accepts input of the first data required when a user enters a facility, and a reception function at exit, which accepts input of the second data required when the user leaves the facility, or whether the operating mode is a self-mode in which the user performs the input of the first data and the second data. When in the manned mode, the reception device accepts the input of the first data or the second data with the screen of the display device as the screen of the manned mode. When in the self-mode, the reception device accepts the input of the first data or the second data with the screen of the display device as the screen of the self-mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a reception device and a program therefor. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a data processing device that has an entry reception function that accepts input of data required when a user enters a facility, and an exit reception function that accepts input of data required when a user leaves the facility. This type of data processing device is installed at the reception desk of leisure facilities such as karaoke booths, darts bars, and manga cafes, or sports facilities such as sports gyms, golf courses, and bowling alleys. For this reason, this type of data processing device is generally called a reception device.

[0003] There are two types of reception devices: manned reception devices operated by facility employees, and self-service reception devices operated by facility users. When a manned reception device is used, the employee operates the device, so there are fewer data input errors and operation delays rarely occur. This has the advantage of efficiently handling users. However, since an employee must always be at the reception desk, securing employees becomes an issue. On the other hand, when a self-service reception device is used, reception employees are not required. However, since the user operates the device, data input errors are likely to occur and operation is often time-consuming. This has the disadvantage of not being able to efficiently handle users.

[0004] From this perspective, there is a demand for installing many manned reception devices at the reception desk on days or times when there are many users to efficiently handle users, and conversely, installing many self-service reception devices at the reception desk on days or times when there are few users to reduce the burden on employees. In response to this demand, currently, there is no choice but to prepare the necessary number of manned reception devices and self-service reception devices at the reception desk, and determine the number of reception devices that can be used depending on the day of the week or the time of day, etc. Therefore, equipment costs are high. In addition, there are problems such as waste due to non-operating reception devices and the need to secure a large installation space for the reception devices. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-219819 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem that an embodiment of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a reception device that can easily realize a reception system that can arbitrarily switch between the number of manned reception devices and the number of self-service reception devices within a limited number of devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the reception device includes a mode selection means, a storage means, a manned control means, and a self-control means. The mode selection means displays a mode selection screen on a display device for selecting whether the operation mode is a manned mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data related to an entry reception function that accepts an input of first data required when a user enters a facility and an exit reception function that accepts an input of second data required when a user leaves the facility, or a self-control mode in which the user inputs the first data and the second data. The storage means stores information on the operation mode selected by the mode selection means. When the information stored by the storage means is information on the manned mode, the manned control means sets the screen of the display device to a manned mode screen and accepts the input of the first data or the second data. When the information stored by the storage means is information on the self-control mode, the self-control means sets the screen of the display device to a self-control mode screen and accepts the input of the first data or the second data. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a reception system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the reception terminal. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing main application software installed in the receiving terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing main memory areas formed in the main memory of the receiving terminal. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receiving server. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the receiving terminal table. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of data items stored in a box-specific file. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows an example of a sign-on screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of a mode selection screen. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows an example of the top screen in the attended mode. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 shows an example of the entrance / exit processing screen in the attended mode. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows an example of a display of the operation menu screen. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 shows an example of a display of the top screen in the entrance / exit self mode. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 shows an example of a display on the top screen in the self-entry mode. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows an example of a display of the top screen in the exit self mode. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 shows an example of the number of users input screen. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows an example of the slip reading screen. [Diagram 23] FIG. 23 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation procedure related to the attended mode and transition of screens displayed on the reception terminal. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a sequence diagram showing an example of transition of operation procedures relating to the self mode and screens displayed on the reception terminal. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a sequence diagram showing a procedure related to a transaction in the reception system. [Figure 26]FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor of the reception terminal in the second embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 shows an example of a display of a mode selection screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 shows an example of a self mode selection screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a sequence diagram showing an example of transition of an operation procedure relating to the self mode and a screen displayed on the reception terminal in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Below, we will use the drawings to explain an embodiment of a reception device that can easily realize a reception system that can arbitrarily switch between the number of manned reception devices and the number of self-service reception devices within a limited number of devices. In this embodiment, a karaoke box store is exemplified as a store to which the reception device is applied. A karaoke box store is a store that has one or more facilities for enjoying karaoke, so-called karaoke boxes. Each karaoke box is set with a unique box number. The box number is a series of numbers set to individually identify each karaoke box. The box number can be rephrased as a room number or the like. In general, in a karaoke box store, before a user enters a karaoke box, the user inputs data required for entry, such as the box number, the number of users, the start time of use, and the planned time of use, into the reception device at the reception desk. When the user leaves the karaoke box, the user inputs data required for exit, such as the box number and the end time of use, into the reception device. By doing so, the reception device calculates the karaoke box usage fee, so-called facility usage fee, for each user according to the usage time, the number of users, etc. In addition, when a user eats or drinks in the karaoke box, the cost of the food and drink is also added to the facility usage fee. The facility usage fee is displayed on the display device of the reception device, so the user pays the facility usage fee. The data related to the payment at this time is also input into the reception device. This embodiment illustrates a reception device suitable for installation at the reception desk of such a karaoke booth store.

[0010] [Description of the reception system] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a reception system 100 constructed in a karaoke booth. The reception system 100 includes a reception server 1, a plurality of reception terminals 2, a plurality of ordering terminals 3, and a kitchen terminal 4. The reception system 100 connects the reception server 1 with each of the reception terminals 2, each of the ordering terminals 3, and the kitchen terminal 4 via a communication network 5. The communication network 5 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The communication network 5 may also include a wide area network such as the Internet or an intranet, or a mobile communication network.

[0011] The reception server 1 is a computer system for providing various services related to reception operations. The reception server 1 may provide services in an on-premise environment, or may provide services in a cloud computing environment. The reception server 1 manages databases such as a box database 6, an employee database 7, a member database 8, and a product database 9 in order to provide various services related to reception operations. The reception server 1 may be composed of multiple servers instead of a single server.

[0012] The box database 6 is a database that stores data related to karaoke booths. For example, the box database 6 stores data such as the number of available users, basic fee, extension fee, etc., for each box number, which is identification information assigned to each karaoke booth.

[0013] The employee database 7 is a database that stores data on employees working at karaoke booths. For example, the employee database 7 stores data such as names and passwords for each employee code, which is identification information assigned to each employee. Passwords are confidential information used for identity authentication.

[0014] The member database 8 is a database that stores data on users who have registered as members of the karaoke booth establishment, that is, on members. For example, the member database 8 stores data such as name, age, membership registration date, membership validity period, and service points for each member, which is identification information assigned to each member. A member card with a membership code recorded thereon is issued to a user who has become a member. Alternatively, the member code is displayed on a display device of the smartphone in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode or two-dimensional code by dedicated application software installed on the user's smartphone or the like. In addition, when a member makes a reservation in advance to use a karaoke booth, the member database 8 also stores the reservation information for each member.

[0015] The product database 9 is a database that stores data on products provided to users of karaoke booths. For example, the product database 9 stores data on products, such as product names and prices, classified by product code, which is identification information assigned to each product. Products include food, beverages, cooking supplies, cigarettes, etc. Rental items such as lighting equipment, musical instruments, and audio equipment, which are charged for, are also classified as products. Furthermore, karaoke booths offer course menus, such as two hours of use with all-you-can-drink alcoholic beverages, and two hours of use with all-you-can-drink drink bar. Such karaoke course menus are also included in the products stored in the product database 9.

[0016] The reception terminal 2 is a data processing device installed at the reception desk of a karaoke booth. The reception desk is a place where customers stop by before entering a karaoke booth or after leaving a karaoke booth. The reception desk is also called the front desk. The reception desk is usually located near the entrance of a karaoke booth, and has a counter table for serving customers. In this embodiment, multiple reception terminals 2 are installed in one direction on this counter table.

[0017] The installation method of the reception terminal 2 is not particularly limited. As will be described in detail later, the reception terminal 2 may be operated by an employee or a user. Therefore, the reception terminal 2 may be installed in such a manner that both the employee and the user can be the operator. For example, even when the reception terminal 2 is installed on a counter table as in this embodiment, the reception terminal 2 may be installed on a rotating platform that rotates horizontally, and the operating surface of the reception terminal 2 may be oriented to one side or the other side of the counter table by appropriately rotating the rotating platform.

[0018] The reception terminal 2 has an entrance reception function that receives input of first data required when a user enters the facility, and an exit reception function that receives input of second data required when a user leaves the facility. The first data is, for example, the box number of the karaoke box used by the user, the number of users, the start time of use, the scheduled time of use, a course menu, an option menu, etc. The course menu is the menu of karaoke courses mentioned above. The option menu is a menu that a user who does not select a course can select when entering the store, and includes, for example, a drink bar, a one-drink system, etc. The first data includes the number of people using the drink bar, the number of people using the one-drink system, the type of drink, etc. In other words, the first data may include order data for a product menu.

[0019] The second data is, for example, the booth number of the karaoke booth used by the user, the end time of use, etc. It goes without saying that the items of the first data and the second data are not limited to the items mentioned above. In short, the first data is data that needs to be input at the time of entry. The second data is data that needs to be input at the time of exit. Such a reception terminal 2 can be called a reception device. Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 may constitute a reception device by having all or part of the functions of the reception server 1. Details of the reception terminal 2 will be explained later.

[0020] The order terminal 3 is a data processing device that is installed in each karaoke booth and is used by the user when ordering products. For example, a tablet PC is used as the order terminal 3. The user selects the product he or she wants to order from a list of product menus displayed on the touch panel of the tablet PC and inputs the quantity. By doing so, the user's order data is transmitted to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. Incidentally, the order terminal 3 may be a handy terminal carried by an employee and equipped with a function for inputting the product order details received from the user. In addition, the user can install store-specific application software on a mobile terminal such as a smartphone that he or she owns, and use the smartphone as an order terminal by inputting the ID of the application software, for example a membership code, into the reception terminal 2 when entering the store.

[0021] The kitchen terminal 4 is a display device installed in the kitchen where the food and beverage menu items are prepared. For example, a tablet PC is used as the kitchen terminal 4. Data related to the food and beverage menu items ordered by the user is displayed on the display device of the tablet PC by the operation of the reception server 1. A chef in the kitchen prepares the food and beverage menu items according to the content displayed on the kitchen terminal 4. The cooked food and beverage menu items are provided to the user in the karaoke booth. Incidentally, the kitchen terminal 4 may be a printing device that prints the data related to the food and beverage menu items ordered by the user on recording paper.

[0022] [Configuration of reception terminal] 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the reception terminal 2. The reception terminal 2 mainly comprises a tablet PC 20. Devices such as a printer 21, a card reader 22, a change dispenser 23, and a cashless payment terminal 24 are connected to the tablet PC 20 to constitute the reception terminal 2. It should be noted that the devices connected to the tablet PC 20 are not limited to these. For example, the reception terminal 2 may be constituted by connecting a scanner that optically reads machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes, or a drawer for storing cash, gift certificates, etc. to the tablet PC 20.

[0023] The tablet PC 20 includes a processor 201, a main memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a clock 204, a communication unit 205, an imaging unit 206, a touch panel 207, a plurality of device interfaces 208, 209, 210, 211, and a system transmission path 212. The system transmission path 212 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 212 connects the processor 201 to each of the other units, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0024] The tablet PC 20 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 201, a main memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a clock 204, a communication unit 205, an imaging unit 206, a touch panel 207, and multiple device interfaces 208, 209, 210, and 211 via a system transmission path 212.

[0025] The processor 201 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 201 controls each part to realize various functions of the reception terminal 2 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 201 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 201 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0026] The main memory 202 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 202 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 202 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 202 may store data required for the processor 201 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 202 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 201. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 203 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 203. The auxiliary storage device 203 stores data used by the processor 201 in performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 201, etc. The auxiliary storage device 203 may also store the above application programs.

[0028] The clock 204 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 201 processes the date and time kept by the clock 204 as the current date and time.

[0029] The communication unit 205 is an interface for performing data communication with the receiving server 1 via the communication network 5. The communication unit 205 transmits data to the receiving server 1 in response to a command from the processor 201. The communication unit 205 also outputs data received from the receiving server 1 via the communication network 5 to the processor 201 via the system transmission path 212. The communication unit 205 is a wireless communication unit that performs data communication in accordance with wireless communication regulations. The communication unit 205 may be a wired communication unit that performs data communication via a wired communication cable.

[0030] The imaging unit 206 includes a camera and captures an image captured through the lens of the camera. The imaging unit 206 outputs data of the captured image to the processor 201 via the system transmission path 212. The processor 201 has a function of analyzing the image captured by the imaging unit 206, reading machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes, and acquiring information indicated by the codes. For example, the imaging unit 206 has a function of reading a slip code, a membership code for identifying a member, and the like, which will be described later.

[0031] The touch panel 207 functions as an input device and a display device for the reception terminal 2. The touch panel 207 displays various screens related to the entrance reception function and the exit reception function under the control of the processor 201. The touch panel 207 detects a touch operation on the screen by an operator, and outputs a signal indicating the touch position to the processor 201.

[0032] The device interface 208 connects the printer 21. The device interface 208 outputs print data to the printer 21. The printer 21 prints print data for a reception slip created based on the first data input in the entrance reception function. The printer 21 prints print data for a receipt created based on the second data input in the exit reception function. The reception slip is a sheet of paper on which, for example, the box number of the karaoke booth used by the user, the number of users, the start time of use, etc. are printed. The box number is also printed on the reception slip in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode. The receipt is a sheet of paper on which transaction data such as the karaoke booth usage fee, the item and price of the ordered product, and the facility usage fee which is the total of the above are printed.

[0033] The device interface 209 connects the card reader 22. The device interface 209 takes in the card data read by the card reader 22 and outputs it to the processor 201. The card reader 22 acquires card data from a magnetic card or an IC card including a contact or contactless IC chip. For example, the card reader 22 reads data recorded on a card medium such as a membership card or a credit card. The processor 201 processes the card data input via the device interface 209. Specifically, when the card reader 22 reads data on a membership card, the processor 201 performs processing related to a member identified by a membership code recorded on the membership card. For example, the processor 201 grants service points to the member. In addition, when the membership card is realized by application software on a mobile terminal owned by a user, the above-mentioned imaging unit 206 may acquire member information by reading a membership code displayed on the mobile terminal. When the card reader 22 reads credit card data, the processor 201 authenticates the credit card. If the credit card is authenticated, the processor 201 processes the payment of the facility usage fee by credit card.

[0034] The device interface 210 connects to the change machine 23. The device interface 210 takes in the denomination and number of banknotes or coins inserted into the change machine 23, and outputs this to the processor 201. The processor 201 calculates the amount inserted based on the data taken in via the device interface 210. The processor 201 then calculates the amount of change from the amount inserted and the facility usage fee, and processes the settlement of the facility usage fee in cash. At this time, the processor 201 outputs the change data to the change machine 23 via the device interface 210. The change machine 23 dispenses the required number of banknotes or coins according to the change data.

[0035] The device interface 211 connects to the cashless payment terminal 24. The cashless payment terminal 24 is compatible with cashless payments such as electronic money and code payments. The device interface 211 imports data related to the cashless payment input to the cashless payment terminal 24 and outputs it to the processor 201. The processor 201 processes the cashless payment of the facility usage fee based on the data imported via the device interface 211.

[0036] The reception terminal 2 having such a configuration can selectively switch between a manned mode and a self-service mode as an operation mode. The manned mode is a mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data related to the entrance reception function that accepts the input of the first data required when the user enters the facility, i.e., the karaoke booth, and the exit reception function that accepts the input of the second data required when the user exits the karaoke booth. That is, the manned mode is an operation mode in which an employee becomes the operator of the reception terminal 2. The self-service mode is a mode in which a user inputs the first data related to the entrance reception function and the second data related to the exit reception function. That is, the self-service mode is an operation mode in which a user becomes the operator of the reception terminal 2. In addition, the self-service mode includes, as options, an entrance self-service mode that accepts only the input of the first data related to the entrance reception function, an exit self-service mode that accepts only the input of the second data related to the exit reception function, and an entry / exit self-service mode that accepts both the input of the first data related to the entrance reception function and the input of the second data related to the exit reception function.

[0037] To realize such a configuration, the reception terminal 2 has four types of application software implemented in the auxiliary storage device 203, as shown in Fig. 3. The four types of application software are first application software 41 called "attended mode APL", second application software 42 called "entrance / exit self-service mode APL", third application software 43 called "entrance self-service mode APL", and fourth application software 44 called "exit self-service mode APL".

[0038] The first application software 41 is application software for controlling the operation of the attended mode. The second application software 42 is application software for controlling the operation of the entry / exit self-service mode. The third application software 43 is application software for controlling the operation of the entry self-service mode. The fourth application software 44 is application software for controlling the operation of the exit self-service mode. Details of the control by each application software 41 to 44 will be made clear in the operation explanation described later.

[0039] The method of installing each of the application software 41-44 in the auxiliary storage device 203 is not particularly limited. Each of the application software 41-44 can be installed in the auxiliary storage device 63 by recording it on a removable recording medium, or by distributing it by communication via the communication network 5. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device. Furthermore, each of the application software 41-44 may be installed in the main memory 202.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 4, the reception terminal 2 has a part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 202 as an area for a person in charge memory 51 and an area for a mode memory 52. The manager memory 51 is an area for storing a manager code. The manager code is the employee code of an employee who is permitted to operate the reception terminal 2. An employee who operates the reception terminal 2 signs on before starting operation. Sign-on is a function that authenticates the operator of the reception terminal 2 and makes it available for use. When sign-on is approved, the employee code of that employee is stored in the manager memory 51.

[0041] The mode memory 52 is an area for storing information specifying the operation mode of the reception terminal 2. As described above, the reception terminal 2 has four operation modes: attended mode, entry / exit self-service mode, entry self-service mode, and exit self-service mode. For example, when the operation mode is attended mode, the mode memory 52 stores "100" as information specifying the operation mode. Similarly, when the operation mode is the entry / exit self-service mode, the mode memory 52 stores "200" as information specifying the operation mode, when the operation mode is the entry self-service mode, the mode memory 52 stores "300" as information specifying the operation mode, and when the operation mode is the exit self-service mode, the mode memory 52 stores "400" as information specifying the operation mode.

[0042] 2, the reception terminal 2 is equipped with a main program such that the processor 201 realizes the functions of mode selection means 31, storage means 32, notification means 33, attended control means 34, and self-control means 35. The main program is also a type of application software installed in the auxiliary storage device 203 or main memory 202, similar to the application software 41 to 44.

[0043] The mode selection means 31 is a function that displays a mode selection screen on a display device for selecting whether the operation mode is to be an attended mode or a self-mode. The mode selection means 31 displays a mode selection screen on the touch panel 207, on which a first operator for selecting the attended mode and a second operator for selecting the self-mode are arranged. The second operator is made up of a third operator for selecting the entry / exit self-mode, a fourth operator for selecting the entry self-mode, and a fifth operator for selecting the exit self-mode.

[0044] The mode selection means 31 recognizes that the attended mode has been selected when a signal indicating that the first operator has been touched is input from the touch panel 207. Similarly, the mode selection means 31 recognizes that the entry / exit self-control mode has been selected when a signal indicating that the third operator among the second operators has been touched is input from the touch panel 207, recognizes that the entry self-control mode has been selected when a signal indicating that the fourth operator has been touched is input from the touch panel 207, and recognizes that the exit self-control mode has been selected when a signal indicating that the fifth operator has been touched is input from the touch panel 207.

[0045] The storage means 32 has a function of storing information on the operation mode selected by the mode selection means 31. The storage means 32 stores information on the operation mode selected by the mode selection means 31 in the mode memory 52. ​​For example, when the attended mode is selected by the mode selection means 31, the storage means 32 stores "100" as the operation mode information. Similarly, when the entry / exit self-control mode is selected by the mode selection means 31, the storage means 32 stores "200" as the operation mode information in the mode memory 52, when the entry self-control mode is selected, the storage means 32 stores "300" as the operation mode information in the mode memory 52, and when the exit self-control mode is selected, the storage means 32 stores "400" as the operation mode information in the mode memory 52.

[0046] The notification means 33 is a function that notifies the reception server 1 of the operation mode selected by the mode selection means 31. The notification means 33 notifies the reception server 1 by transmitting information on the operation mode selected by the mode selection means 31 via the communication unit 205. For example, when the attended mode is selected by the mode selection means 31, the notification means 33 transmits "100" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1 to notify. Similarly, when the entry / exit self mode is selected by the mode selection means 31, the notification means 33 transmits "200" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1, when the entry self mode is selected, the notification means 33 transmits "300" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1 to notify, and when the exit self mode is selected, the notification means 33 transmits "400" as information specifying the operation mode to the reception server 1 to notify.

[0047] The attended control means 34 has a function of accepting input of the first data or the second data with the screen of the display device as the attended mode screen when the information stored in the storage means 32 is attended mode information. That is, when the mode specifying information stored in the mode memory 52 is "100", that is, attended mode information, the attended control means 34 accepts input of the first data required for a user to enter the karaoke booth or input of the second data required for a user to leave the karaoke booth with the screen of the touch panel 207 as the attended mode screen. The attended mode screen will be made clear in the operation explanation described later.

[0048] The self-control means 35 is a function that accepts the input of the first data or the second data with the screen of the display device as the self-mode screen when the information stored by the storage means 32 is the information of the self-mode. That is, when the mode specifying information stored in the mode memory 52 is "200", that is, the information of the entry / exit self-mode, the self-control means 35 accepts the input of the first data required when the user enters the karaoke booth with the screen of the touch panel 207 as the self-mode screen, or the input of the second data required when the user exits the karaoke booth. Similarly, when the mode specifying information stored in the mode memory 52 is "300", that is, the information of the entry self-mode, the self-control means 35 accepts the input of the first data required when the user enters the karaoke booth with the screen of the touch panel 207 as the self-mode screen. Furthermore, when the mode specifying information stored in the mode memory 52 is "400", that is, information on the exit self-service mode, the self-service control means 35 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the self-service mode screen and accepts the input of the second data required when the user exits the karaoke booth. The self-service mode screen will be made clear in the operation explanation given later.

[0049] [Configuration of reception server] 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receiving server 1. The receiving server 1 includes a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, a clock 14, a communication interface 15, and a system transmission path 16. The system transmission path 16 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 16 connects the processor 11 to each of the other components, and transmits data signals exchanged between them. The receiving server 1 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 11 to the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage device 13, the clock 14, and the communication interface 15 via the system transmission path 16.

[0050] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 11 controls each part to realize various functions of the reception server 1 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 11 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0051] The main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 12 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 12 may store data required for the processor 11 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 12 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 11. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0052] The auxiliary storage device 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, the auxiliary storage device 13 can be an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores data used by the processor 11 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 11, etc. The auxiliary storage device 13 may also store the above-mentioned application programs. The reception server 1 uses part of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 13 as an area for the box database 6, employee database 7, member database 8, and product database 9.

[0053] The clock 14 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 11 processes the date and time kept by the clock 14 as the current date and time.

[0054] The communication interface 15 is an interface for performing data communication between each reception terminal 2, each order terminal 3, and the kitchen terminal 4 via the communication network 5.

[0055] The receiving server 1 having such a configuration uses a part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 12 as an area for a receiving terminal table 61. The receiving server 1 also uses a part of the volatile memory area as an area for a box-specific file 62.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the receiving terminal table 61. As shown in the figure, the receiving terminal table 61 includes a column Ca of receiving terminal IDs, a column Cb of operation modes, and a column Cc of operating flags. In the column Ca, a unique receiving terminal ID set individually for each receiving terminal 2 is described. In the column Cb, information M specifying the operation mode of the receiving terminal 2 identified by the receiving terminal ID described in the column Ca of the same row is described. In the column Cc, an operating flag F is described. The operating flag F is 1-bit data for identifying whether the receiving terminal 2 identified by the receiving terminal ID described in the column Ca of the same row is operating or not. In this embodiment, the operating flag F indicating that the receiving terminal 2 is operating is set to "1", and the operating flag F indicating that the receiving terminal 2 is not operating is set to "0".

[0057] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of data items stored in the box-specific file 62. The box-specific file 62 is a data file prepared for each karaoke booth. The box-specific file 62 stores information about users who have used the karaoke booth. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the box-specific file 62 stores items such as the box number, entry date and time, exit date and time, number of users, and order data. The box number is a room number for identifying the karaoke booth as described above. The entry date and time and the exit date and time are the date and time when the user entered the karaoke booth and the date and time when the user exited the karaoke booth. The usage time is calculated from the entry date and time and the exit date and time. The number of users is the number of users. The order data is data related to the products ordered by the user. The data stored in the box-specific file 62 is used to calculate the facility usage fee, etc.

[0058] In this way, the box-specific file 62 is an area for storing information about facility usage from when a user enters a karaoke booth as a facility until when the user leaves the facility, and information about the menu items ordered by the user in the facility, in association with the box number, which is the identification information of the karaoke booth. Note that in the box-specific file 62, the identification information of the karaoke booth does not have to be the box number itself. For example, a combination of the box number and a serial number may be used as the identification information of the karaoke booth. Also, for example, an arbitrarily generated unique code may be used as the identification information of the karaoke booth.

[0059] [Operation explanation of reception terminal] Next, the main operations of the reception terminal 2 will be explained using the flowcharts of Figures 8 to 12 and the screen examples of Figures 13 to 22. Note that the content and procedures of the operations explained using the flowcharts are merely examples. The content and procedures can be changed as appropriate as long as similar operational effects can be achieved. The screen examples are also merely examples. The content of the output text, the arrangement of images, the type and layout of software keys, etc. can be changed as appropriate.

[0060] 8 to 12 are flow charts showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 in accordance with a main program. An employee operating the reception terminal 2 first performs a start-up operation OPa (see Figs. 23 and 24). For example, the employee turns on the main power of the reception terminal 2. In response to such a start-up operation OPa, the processor 201 starts the information processing of the steps shown in the flow chart of Fig. 8. The processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa (see Fig. 13) as ACT1.

[0061] FIG. 13 is a display example of the sign-on screen SCa. As shown in the figure, the sign-on screen SCa has an input field INa for a user code and an input field INb for a password. In addition, the sign-on screen SCa has a sign-on button BTx. The sign-on button BTx is an operator for notifying the processor 201 that a sign-on has been performed. The sign-on button BTx is a software key. After checking the sign-on screen SCa, the employee performs a sign-on operation OPb (see FIGS. 23 and 24). That is, the employee inputs his / her employee code into the input field INa, inputs his / her password into the input field INb, and presses the sign-on button.

[0062] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the sign-on screen SCa proceeds to ACT2. The processor 201 waits for a sign-on operation OPb to be performed as ACT2. When an employee code is input into the input field INa of the sign-on screen SCa, a password is input into the input field INb, and the sign-on button BTx is pressed, the processor 201 recognizes that a sign-on operation OPb has been performed. The processor 201 proceeds to ACT3. The processor 201 issues a sign-on notification to the reception server 1 as ACT3. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal of the sign-on notification to the reception server 1. This control causes the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal of the sign-on notification to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal includes the employee code and password input into the sign-on screen SCa. The terminal ID of the reception terminal 2 is also included.

[0063] The reception server 1, which has received the sign-on notification, refers to the reception terminal table 61 and checks whether the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID is "0" indicating that the terminal is not in operation. If the operating flag F is "0", the reception server 1 searches the employee database 7 to determine the validity of the employee code and password. If the password stored in the employee database 7 in association with the employee code entered on the sign-on screen SCa matches the password entered on the sign-on screen SCa, the reception server 1 approves the employee identified by the employee code as an operator. The reception server 1 sets the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID to "1". On the other hand, if the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID is "1" or the passwords do not match, the reception server 1 does not approve the employee identified by the employee code as an operator. The operating flag F remains "0". The reception server 1 transmits the approval result to the reception terminal 2 that sent the sign-on notification.

[0064] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that issued the sign-on notification proceeds to ACT4. The processor 201 waits in ACT4 to see whether the employee has been approved as an operator. If the employee has not been approved as an operator, the processor 201 determines that the sign-on operation OPb is an error. The employee retries the sign-on operation OPb.

[0065] If the employee is approved as an operator, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT5. The processor 201 writes the employee code of the approved employee in ACT5 in the manager memory 51. The processor 201 also sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the mode selection screen SCb (see FIG. 14) in ACT6.

[0066] 14 is a display example of the mode selection screen SCb. As shown in the figure, the mode selection screen SCb is divided into two areas: a manned mode area ARa and a self-mode area ARb. The manned mode area ARa has an "attended" button BTa arranged therein. The self-mode area ARb has an "enter / exit" button BTb, an "enter only" button BTc, and an "exit only" button BTd arranged therein. The "attended" button BTa, the "enter / exit" button BTb, the "enter only" button BTc, and the "exit only" button BTd are all software keys.

[0067] The "Attended" button BTa is an operator for selecting the attended mode, that is, the first operator. The "Entry / Exit" button BTb, the "Entry Only" button BTc and the "Exit Only" button BTd are operators for selecting the self-service mode, that is, the second operator. In more detail, the "Entry / Exit" button BTb is a third operator for selecting the entry / exit self-service mode, the "Entry Only" button BTc is a fourth operator for selecting the entry self-service mode, and the "Exit Only" button BTd is a fifth operator for selecting the exit self-service mode.

[0068] After checking the mode selection screen SCb, the employee performs a mode selection operation OPc (see Figs. 23 and 24). That is, if the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the attended mode, the employee touches the "attended" button BTa. If the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the entry / exit self-service mode, the employee touches the "entrance / exit" button BTb. If the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the entry self-service mode, the employee touches the "entrance only" button BTc. If the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the exit self-service mode, the employee touches the "exit only" button BTd. In other words, after signing on, until a mode is selected on the mode selection screen SCb, the reception terminal 2 is in a default state in which it is not operating in either attended or self-service mode.

[0069] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the mode selection screen SCb proceeds to ACT7. The processor 201 waits for a mode selection operation OPc as ACT7. That is, the processor 201 waits for any of the operators arranged on the mode selection screen SCb to be input. Then, when the processor 201 inputs a signal generated by touching any of the operators on the touch panel 207, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT8. The processor 201 checks whether or not the "attended" button BTa has been input as ACT8. If the "attended" button BTa has not been input, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT9. The processor 201 checks whether or not the "enter / exit" button BTb has been input as ACT9. If the "enter / exit" button BTb has not been input, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT10. The processor 201 checks whether or not the "enter only" button BTc has been input as ACT10. If the "enter only" button BTc has not been input, the processor 201 recognizes that the "exit only" button BTd has been input.

[0070] In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the mode selection screen SCb waits for the "Attended" button BTa, the "Entry / Exit" button BTb, the "Entry only" button BTc, or the "Exit only" button BTd to be input in ACT7 to ACT10. In this standby state, if the "Attended" button BTa is input, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT21 in Fig. 9. If the "Entry / Exit" button BTb is input, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT41 in Fig. 10. If the "Entry only" button BTc is input, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT61 in Fig. 11. If the "Exit only" button BTd is input, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT81 in Fig. 12.

[0071] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the mode selection means 31 by the processing of ACT6 to ACT10.

[0072] <Manned mode explanation> 9 is a flow chart showing a control procedure of the processor 201 after the "attended" button BTa is input as a mode selection operation OPc on the mode selection screen SCb. The processor 201 writes information "100" that specifies the attended mode in the mode memory 52 as ACT21. The processor 201 also starts up the "attended mode APL" that is the first application software 41 as ACT22. Thereafter, the processor 201 controls the operations of ACT23 to ACT32 in accordance with the "attended mode APL".

[0073] The processor 201 notifies the reception server 1 that the attended mode has been selected as ACT23. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal including information "100" for identifying the attended mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal including the mode identifying information "100" to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0074] The receiving server 1, which has received a data signal including a terminal ID and mode specifying information "100", refers to the receiving terminal table 61 and sets information M specifying the operation mode associated with the terminal ID to "100".

[0075] After notifying the reception server 1 that the attended mode has been selected, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 24. In ACT 24, the processor 201 displays the attended mode top screen SCc (see FIG. 15) on the screen of the touch panel 207. The top screen SCc is an example of a attended mode screen.

[0076] FIG. 15 is an example of a display of the top screen SCc. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCc in the attended mode displays a box list table Ta. The box list table Ta is a matrix of a plurality of rectangular areas, each of which is assigned a box number for each karaoke box. Each rectangular area displays information about the karaoke box with the box number displayed in that area. For example, "Vacant" is displayed for a karaoke box in which no user has entered. For a karaoke box in which a user has entered, the start time of use, the number of users, etc. are displayed. In addition, a business button BTe is arranged on the top screen SCc.

[0077] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the top screen SCc of the attended mode proceeds to ACT25. The processor 201 checks whether an entry operation has been performed in ACT25. If an entry operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT26. The processor 201 checks whether an exit operation has been performed in ACT26. If an exit operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT27. The processor 201 checks whether the business button BTe has been input in ACT27. If the business button BTe has not been input, the processor 201 returns to ACT25. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the top screen SCc waits for an entry operation to be performed, an exit operation to be performed, or the business button BTe to be input in ACT25 to ACT27.

[0078] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCc is displayed is an employee. The reception employee performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPd (see FIG. 23). That is, when a customer who uses the karaoke box, that is, a user, arrives at the store, the employee performs an entry operation on the reception terminal 2. When the user who has been using the karaoke box leaves the store, the employee performs an exit operation on the reception terminal 2.

[0079] On the top screen SCc, when a partition area in which any of the box numbers in the box list table Ta is displayed is pressed and held, for example, a pop-up PU (see Figure 16) with an enter button and an exit button is displayed superimposed on the top screen SCc.

[0080] FIG. 16 is a display example of the entrance / exit processing screen SCd that displays a pop-up PU superimposed on the top screen SCc. The pop-up PU is an image that is displayed when the area of ​​the box number "01" is pressed and held down. The entrance button is an operator for commanding the processor 201 to start an entrance operation. The exit button is an operator for commanding the processor 201 to start an exit operation. In this way, the operation in which the employee presses and holds down the partitioned area, for example, to display the pop-up PU and touches the entrance button is the entrance operation. Similarly, the operation in which the employee displays the pop-up PU and touches the exit button is the exit operation. Note that the operation for displaying the pop-up PU is not limited to the long press operation. For example, the pop-up PU may be displayed by tapping the partitioned area two or more times in succession.

[0081] When an entry operation is performed in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT28. The processor 201 executes entry processing as ACT28. That is, when the processor 201 detects that the entry button of the pop-up PU has been pressed, the screen of the touch panel 207 is set to a screen for accepting the input of first data required for a user to enter the karaoke booth. The screen is, for example, an entry information input screen. The entry information input screen is a screen for accepting the input of first data such as the number of users and the planned time of use. An employee who is an operator inputs the number of users who will use the karaoke booth, the planned time of use, a course menu, an option menu, and the like into the entry information input screen. The screen for accepting the input of the first data may include a member input screen, a member registration screen, and the like. The member input screen is a screen for accepting the input of a member code when the user is a member. The member registration screen is a screen for accepting the input of data required for member registration when the user is a non-member. An entry information input screen, a member input screen, a member registration screen, etc. are also examples of attendant mode screens.

[0082] The processor 201 creates print data for a reception slip based on the first data input via, for example, the entry information input screen, and outputs it to the printer 21. The reception slip is then issued by the printer 21, and the staff member hands it to the user. The user who receives the reception slip can use the karaoke booth with the booth number printed on the slip.

[0083] The processor 201 also transmits first data including the input box number, number of users, scheduled usage time, course menu, option menu, etc. to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the entry date and time, number of users, course menu, option menu, etc. in the box-specific file 62 for the box number assigned to the partitioned area where the long press operation was performed. If the user is a member, the membership code is also written. The entry date and time is, for example, the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time the entry button is touched.

[0084] In this way, the admission process includes a process of displaying a screen for accepting input of the first data, a process of issuing a reception slip based on the first data entered via the screen, and a process of transmitting the first data to the reception server 1. Note that the reception slip may be issued by transmitting it as electronic data to the user's smartphone, rather than issuing it on paper.

[0085] When an exit operation is performed in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT29. The processor 201 executes an exit process as ACT29. That is, when the processor 201 detects that the exit button of the pop-up PU is input, the screen of the touch panel 207 is changed to a screen for accepting input of second data required when the user exits the karaoke booth. The screen is, for example, a slip reading screen. The employee who has confirmed the slip reading screen has the imaging unit 206 read the barcode on the reception slip submitted by the user. The barcode indicates the box number of the karaoke booth used by the user. The reception slip may be issued from the reception terminal 2 in the manned mode or may be issued from the reception terminal 2 in the self-service mode. The screen for accepting input of the second data may include a payment method selection screen, etc. The payment method selection screen is a screen for selecting a payment method for the facility usage fee. The payment methods include cash, credit card, electronic money, code payment, etc. The screen for reading a receipt, the screen for selecting a payment method, etc. are also examples of the screen for the attended mode. The screen for the attended mode may include other screens.

[0086] The processor 201 transmits the box number and the exit date and time entered, for example, via a slip reading screen, to the reception server 1. The exit date and time is, for example, the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time the exit button is touched. The reception server 1 writes the exit date and time in the box-specific file 62 for the box number. The reception server 1 then calculates the usage time from the entry date and time and the exit date and time written in the box-specific file 62, and calculates the karaoke box usage fee. The reception server 1 also calculates the facility usage fee by adding the price of the product based on the order data written in the box-specific file 62.

[0087] When the facility usage fee is calculated by the reception server 1, the screen on the touch panel 207 of the reception terminal 2 transitions to a payment method selection screen, and the employee receives the fee using the payment method desired by the user and enters the payment data into the reception terminal 2. The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 performs settlement processing to account for the fee based on the facility usage fee and the payment data, and issues a receipt.

[0088] In this way, the exit process includes a process of displaying a screen for accepting input of the second data, a process of transmitting the second data entered via the screen to the reception server 1, and a process of settling the facility usage fee. Note that the receipt issued in the settlement process may be an electronic receipt.

[0089] Note that operations on the top screen SCc are not limited to entry and exit operations. For example, a reception staff member may receive an order for a menu item from a patron using a karaoke booth over an internal phone line. In such a case, the staff member selects a partitioned area that displays the box number of the karaoke booth for which the order was placed. For example, the staff member double-tap the partitioned area. This causes the reception terminal 2 to enter a menu item ordering mode, and a list of menu items is displayed on the touch panel 207. The staff member then selects the menu item ordered by the patron from the list. Thus, the order data for the selected menu item is written to the box-specific file 62 for that box number.

[0090] Furthermore, if no operation is performed for a predetermined time in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, the screen of the touch panel 207 may be returned to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0091] As described above, the top screen SCc has a business button BTe arranged thereon. The business button BTe is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to switch business menus. The business menus include registration business, report business, settlement business, deposit / withdrawal business, and terminal authentication business. The registration business is a business for registering product sales data in memory. The report business is a business for outputting an inspection report of the sales data registered in memory. The settlement business is a business for outputting a settlement report of the sales data registered in memory and clearing the memory. The deposit / withdrawal business is a business for outputting a deposit / withdrawal report showing the amount deposited in the change machine and the amount withdrawn from the change machine. The terminal authentication business is a business for authenticating the reception terminal 2.

[0092] The business button BTe is also used when an employee signs off. Signing off is an operation that cancels the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returns the reception terminal 2 to its default state. Therefore, an employee who signs off first performs an input operation OPe of the business button BTe (see FIG. 23).

[0093] The default state generally refers to a state in which an employee has not been authenticated. In other words, the default state refers to a state in which a manager code is not stored in the manager memory 51. The default state can also be said to be a state in which the manager code stored in the manager memory 51 has been cleared. In this embodiment, the default state includes a state in which the reception terminal 2 is not operating in either the attended mode or the self-operated mode. In other words, the default state refers to a state in which no operation mode information is stored in the mode memory 52. ​​The default state can also be said to be a state in which the operation mode information stored in the mode memory 52 has been cleared.

[0094] In this way, when the reception terminal 2 is started from a power-off state, or when the reception terminal 2 is signed off, or even after the reception terminal 2 is signed on and before the reception terminal 2 selects an operation mode on the mode selection screen SCb, the reception terminal 2 is in a default state in which the reception terminal 2 is not operating in either the attended mode or the self-operation mode. When the reception terminal 2 is signed off, the reception terminal 2 may be kept in the mode memory 52 as it is.

[0095] When the service button BTe is input in the standby state of ACT25 to ACT27, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT30. In ACT30, the processor 201 displays the service menu screen SCe (see FIG. 17) on the screen of the touch panel 207.

[0096] FIG. 17 is an example of a display of the business menu screen SCe. As shown in the figure, the business menu screen SCe has a "Register" button, a "Report" button, a "Settlement" button, a "Deposit / Withdrawal" button, a "Terminal Authentication" button, and a "Sign Off" button arranged thereon. Each button is a software key. The "Register" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a registration business. The "Report" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a report business. The "Settlement" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a settlement business. The "Deposit / Withdrawal" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a deposit / withdrawal business. The "Terminal Authentication" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to select a terminal authentication business. The "Sign Off" button is an operator for instructing the processor 201 to sign off.

[0097] An employee who wishes to sign off checks the job menu screen SCe and then performs a sign-off operation OPf (see FIG. 23). That is, the employee touches the "Sign off" button.

[0098] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the service menu screen SCe proceeds to ACT 31. The processor 201 checks whether or not the "sign off" button has been pressed in ACT 31. If a button other than the "sign off" button has been pressed, the processor 201 processes the service assigned to that button.

[0099] If the "sign off" button is pressed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT32. The processor 201 issues a sign-off notification to the reception server 1 in ACT32. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal includes the employee code stored in the manager memory 51. The terminal ID of the reception terminal 2 is also included.

[0100] Upon receiving the sign-off notification, the accepting server 1 refers to the accepting terminal table 61 and sets the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID to "0."

[0101] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has issued the sign-off notice proceeds to ACT33. The processor 201 stops the attended mode APL, which is the first application software 41, in ACT33. The processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52 in ACT34. In this way, the processor 201 that has accepted the sign-off input executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes from ACT32 to ACT34 described above. In other words, the sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to the default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0102] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by the processing of ACT21. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by the processing of ACT23. The processor 201 realizes the function of the manned control means 34 by the processing of ACT22 to ACT29.

[0103] <Explanation of self-entry / exit mode> 10 is a flow chart showing the control procedure of the processor 201 after the "entrance / exit" button BTb is input as the mode selection operation OPc on the mode selection screen SCb. The processor 201 writes information "200" specifying the entry / exit self mode in the mode memory 52 as ACT41. The processor 201 also starts up the "entrance / exit self mode APL" which is the second application software 42 as ACT42. Thereafter, the processor 201 controls the operations of ACT43 to ACT50 in accordance with the "entrance / exit self mode APL".

[0104] The processor 201 notifies the reception server 1 as ACT43 that the entry / exit self mode has been selected. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal including information "200" specifying the entry / exit self mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal including the mode specifying information "200" to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0105] The receiving server 1, which has received the data signal including the terminal ID and the mode specifying information "200", refers to the receiving terminal table 61 and sets the information M specifying the operation mode associated with the terminal ID to "200".

[0106] After notifying the reception server 1 that the entry / exit self mode has been selected, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 44. In ACT 44, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the top screen SCf-a (see FIG. 18) of the entry / exit self mode. The top screen SCf-a is an example of a screen in the self mode.

[0107] FIG. 18 is a display example of the top screen SCf-a. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCf-a in the self-entry / exit mode is divided into two areas, an entrance area ARc and an exit area ARd. The entrance area ARc has a "Reservation" button BTf and a "No Reservation" button BTg. The exit area ARd has a "Payment" button BTh. The "Reservation" button BTf is an operator operated by a user who has made a reservation for a karaoke box in advance when entering. The "Reservation" button BTf can also be said to be an operator that instructs the processor 201 that a user who has made a reservation for a karaoke box enters. The "No Reservation" button BTg is an operator operated by a user who has not made a reservation for a karaoke box when entering. The "No Reservation" button BTg can also be said to be an operator that instructs the processor 201 that a user who has not made a reservation for a karaoke box enters. The "No Reservation" button BTg can also be said to be an operator that instructs the processor 201 that a user who has not made a reservation for a karaoke box enters. The "Payment" button BTh is an operator operated by a user who has used a karaoke box when leaving the store. The "Pay" button BTh can also be said to be an operator that instructs the processor 201 to exit the karaoke booth.

[0108] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCf-a of the entry / exit self mode proceeds to ACT45. The processor 201 checks whether an entry operation has been performed in ACT45. If an entry operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT46. The processor 201 checks whether an exit operation has been performed in ACT46. If an exit operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT47. The processor 201 checks whether a specific operation has been performed in ACT47. The specific operation will be described later. If a specific operation has not been performed, the processor 201 returns to ACT45. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCf-a waits for an entry operation, an exit operation, or a specific operation to be performed in ACT45 to ACT47.

[0109] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCf-a is displayed is a user. The user performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPg (see FIG. 24). That is, a customer using a karaoke booth, that is, a user, operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk to perform an entry operation when arriving at the store. After that, when finishing using the karaoke booth and leaving the store, the user operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk to perform an exit operation.

[0110] Specifically, a user who arrives at the store having made a reservation in advance touches the "Reservation Made" button BTf on the top screen SCf-a. A user who arrives at the store without making a reservation touches the "No Reservation" button BTg on the top screen SCf-a. In this way, the operation of touching the "Reservation Made" button BTf or the "No Reservation" button BTg is an entry operation. On the other hand, a user who is leaving the store presses the "Checkout" button BTh on the top screen SCf-a. In this way, the operation of pressing the "Checkout" button BTh is an exit operation.

[0111] When an entry operation is performed in the standby state of ACT45 to ACT47, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT48. The processor 201 executes the entry process as ACT48. That is, when the "Reservation" button BTf is input, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to a membership input screen. The membership input screen is a screen that accepts the input of a membership code. For example, the user causes the card reader 22 to read data on a membership card. The processor 201 acquires a membership code from the membership card data read by the card reader 22. The processor 201 then transmits the membership code to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 searches the member database 8 to acquire reservation information of the user identified by the membership code, and transmits the reservation information to the reception terminal 2. The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has received the reservation information sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to a number-of-users input screen SCg-a (see FIG. 21). On the other hand, when the "No reservation" button BTg is pressed, the processor 201 causes the screen of the touch panel 207 to display the number-of-users input screen SCg-a.

[0112] FIG. 21 is a display example of the number-of-users input screen SCg-a. As shown in the figure, the number-of-users input screen SCg-a is a screen for receiving information on the number of users and whether or not there are users under the age of 20. In order to receive information on whether or not there are users under the age of 20, the reception terminal 2 may receive input of a membership code associated with membership information such as age. When a user inputs the number of users and touches the OK button, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes a karaoke box selection screen. The karaoke box selection screen is a screen for receiving the selection of the box number of the karaoke box to be used. The karaoke box selection screen is also a screen for receiving the selection of the course menu of the karaoke course, the option menu, and the like. Such number-of-users input screen SCg-a and karaoke box selection screen are screens for receiving the input of the first data required when a user enters a karaoke box. In other words, the number-of-users input screen SCg-a, the karaoke box selection screen, and the like are also examples of the screens in the self mode.

[0113] The processor 201 creates print data for a receipt based on the first data input via the number-of-users input screen SCg-a, the karaoke box selection screen, etc., and outputs the print data to the printer 21. The receipt is then issued from the printer 21, and the user then proceeds to the karaoke box with the receipt.

[0114] The processor 201 also transmits first data such as the input box number, number of users, information on whether there are any users under the age of 20, expected usage time, course menu, option menu, etc. to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the entry date and time, number of users, course menu, option menu, etc. in the box-specific file 62 for the box number input on the karaoke box selection screen. If the user is a member, the membership code is also recorded. The entry date and time is, for example, the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time the "With reservation" button BTf or the "No reservation" button BTg is touched.

[0115] In this way, the admission process includes a process of displaying a screen for accepting input of the first data, a process of issuing a reception slip based on the first data entered via the screen, and a process of transmitting the first data to the reception server 1. Note that the reception slip may be issued by transmitting it as electronic data to the user's smartphone, rather than issuing it on paper.

[0116] When an exit operation is performed in the standby state of ACT45 to ACT47, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT49. The processor 201 executes the exit process in ACT49. That is, when the processor 201 detects that the "checkout" button BTh has been pressed, it changes the screen of the touch panel 207 to a screen that accepts input of second data required when the user leaves the karaoke booth. The screen is, for example, the receipt reading screen SCg-b (see FIG. 22).

[0117] 22 is a display example of the receipt reading screen SCg-b. As shown in the figure, the receipt reading screen SCg-b is a screen for instructing the user to hold the barcode of the reception slip over the camera. After checking the receipt reading screen SCg-b, the user holds the barcode of the reception slip over the lens of the imaging unit 206. Note that the reception slip may be issued from the reception terminal 2 in self-service mode or from the reception terminal 2 in manned mode.

[0118] When the barcode on the reception slip is read by the imaging unit 206 through such an operation, the processor 201 transmits the box number and the exit date and time obtained by analyzing the barcode to the reception server 1. The exit date and time is, for example, the date and time measured by the clock 204 of the reception terminal 2 at the time when the "checkout" button BTh is touched. The reception server 1 writes the exit date and time in the box-specific file 62 for the box number. The reception server 1 then calculates the usage time from the entry date and time and the exit date and time written in the box-specific file 62, and calculates the usage fee for the karaoke box. The reception server 1 also calculates the facility usage fee by adding the price of the product based on the order data written in the box-specific file 62.

[0119] When the facility usage fee is calculated by the reception server 1, the screen of the touch panel 207 of the reception terminal 2 transitions to a payment method selection screen, and the user selects the desired payment method and pays the fee using that payment method. In response to this operation, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 performs settlement processing based on the facility usage fee and the payment data, and issues a receipt. The slip reading screen SCg-b and the payment method selection screen are also examples of self-mode screens. The self-mode screen may include other screens.

[0120] In this way, the exit process includes a process of displaying a screen for accepting input of the second data, a process of transmitting the second data entered via the screen to the reception server 1, and a process of settling the facility usage fee. Note that the receipt issued in the settlement process may be an electronic receipt.

[0121] In addition, even if no operation is performed for a predetermined time in the standby state of ACT45 to ACT47, the screen of the touch panel 207 does not return to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0122] As described above, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 displaying the top screen SCf-a waits for a specific operation OPh (see FIG. 24) to be performed in ACT45 to ACT47. The specific operation OPh is a special operation that cannot be performed by a user as an entry operation or an exit operation. For example, an operation of touching any four points on the touch panel 207 with a finger at the same time is defined as a specific operation POh. Such a specific operation OPh is an operation that only some employees, such as the store manager, can know.

[0123] When the processor 201 detects that a specific operation OPh has been performed in ACT45 to ACT47, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT50. The processor 201 issues a sign-off notification to the reception server 1 in ACT50. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal of the sign-off notification to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal includes the employee code stored in the manager memory 51. The terminal ID of the reception terminal 2 is also included.

[0124] If it is detected in ACT45 to ACT47 that a specific operation OPh has been performed, the processor 201 may accept an authentication operation of the employee before proceeding to ACT50. The authentication operation is, for example, an operation of accepting input of an employee code and an input of a password. The authentication operation may be only input of the employee code.

[0125] Upon receiving the sign-off notification, the accepting server 1 refers to the accepting terminal table 61 and sets the operating flag F associated with the terminal ID to "0."

[0126] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has issued the sign-off notice proceeds to ACT51. The processor 201 stops the entry / exit self mode APL, which is the second application software 42, in ACT51. The processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52 in ACT52. In this way, the processor 201 that has accepted the sign-off input executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes of ACT50 to ACT52 described above. In other words, the sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to the default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0127] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by processing ACT41. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by processing ACT43. The processor 201 realizes the function of the self control means 35 by processing ACT42 to ACT49.

[0128] <Self-Entry Mode Explanation> 11 is a flow chart showing the control procedure of the processor 201 after the "entrance only" button BTc is input as the mode selection operation OPc on the mode selection screen SCb. The processor 201 writes information "300" specifying the entry self mode in the mode memory 52 as ACT61. The processor 201 also starts up the "entrance self mode APL" which is the third application software 43 as ACT62. Thereafter, the processor 201 controls the operations of ACT63 to ACT68 in accordance with the "entrance self mode APL".

[0129] The processor 201 notifies the reception server 1 as ACT63 that the entrance self mode has been selected. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal including information "300" for identifying the entrance self mode to the reception server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal including the mode identifying information "300" to the reception server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the reception terminal 2.

[0130] The receiving server 1, which has received the data signal including the terminal ID and the mode specifying information "300", refers to the receiving terminal table 61 and sets the information M specifying the operation mode associated with the terminal ID to "300".

[0131] After notifying the reception server 1 that the entry self-service mode has been selected, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 64. In ACT 64, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the entry self-service mode top screen SCf-b (see FIG. 19). The top screen SCf-b is an example of a screen in the self-service mode.

[0132] 19 is a display example of the top screen SCf-b. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCf-b of the entry self-service mode is the same as the entry area ARc in the top screen SCf-a of the entry / exit self-service mode. That is, the top screen SCf-b has a "Reservation" button BTf and a "No Reservation" button BTg.

[0133] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCf-b of the entry self-service mode proceeds to ACT65. The processor 201 checks whether an entry operation has been performed in ACT65. If an entry operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT66. The processor 201 checks whether a specific operation has been performed in ACT66. The specific operation is the same as the specific operation described in the "Description of Entry / Exit Self-Service Mode". If a specific operation has not been performed, the processor 201 returns to ACT65. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCf-b waits for an entry operation to be performed or a specific operation to be performed in ACT65 and ACT66.

[0134] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCf-b is displayed is the user. The user performs the entry operation. That is, a customer who uses a karaoke booth, that is, a user, operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk to perform the entry operation when arriving at the store. This entry operation is the same as the entry operation described in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode."

[0135] When an entry operation is performed in the standby state of ACT65 and ACT66, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT67. The processor 201 executes the entry process as ACT67. This entry process is also the same as the entry process described as ACT48 in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode". Therefore, for the entry operation and entry process, the description in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode" is substituted as is, and the description here is omitted.

[0136] When the processor 201 detects that a specific operation OPh has been performed in the standby state of ACT65 and ACT66, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT68. The processor 201 sends a sign-off notification to the reception server 1 in ACT68. The processing of the sign-off notification is the same as the processing of the sign-off notification described as ACT50 in the "Description of the Entry / Exit Self Mode". The operation of the reception server 1 upon receiving the sign-off notification is also the same. Therefore, for the sign-off notification, the description in the "Description of the Entry / Exit Self Mode" is used as is, and a description here is omitted.

[0137] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has issued the sign-off notice proceeds to ACT69. The processor 201 stops the entry self mode APL, which is the third application software 43, in ACT69. The processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52 in ACT70. In this way, the processor 201 that has accepted the sign-off input executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes of ACT68 to ACT70 described above. In other words, the sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to the default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0138] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by processing ACT61. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by processing ACT63. The processor 201 realizes the function of the self control means 35 by processing ACT62 to ACT67.

[0139] <Explanation of self-exit mode> 12 is a flow chart showing the control procedure of the processor 201 after the "Exit only" button BTd is input as the mode selection operation OPc on the mode selection screen SCb. The processor 201 writes information "400" specifying the exit self mode in the mode memory 52 as ACT81. The processor 201 also starts up the "Exit self mode APL" which is the fourth application software 44 as ACT82. Thereafter, the processor 201 controls the operations of ACT83 to ACT88 in accordance with the "Exit self mode APL".

[0140] The processor 201 notifies the receiving server 1 as ACT83 that the exit self mode has been selected. That is, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit a data signal including information "400" for identifying the exit self mode to the receiving server 1. By this control, the communication unit 205 transmits a data signal including the mode identifying information "400" to the receiving server 1 via the communication network 5. This data signal also includes the terminal ID of the receiving terminal 2.

[0141] The receiving server 1, which has received the data signal including the terminal ID and the mode specifying information "400", refers to the receiving terminal table 61 and sets the information M specifying the operation mode associated with the terminal ID to "400".

[0142] After notifying the reception server 1 that the exit self-service mode has been selected, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 84. In ACT 84, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to a top screen SCf-c (see FIG. 20) of the exit self-service mode. The top screen SCf-c is an example of a screen in the self-service mode.

[0143] 20 is a display example of the top screen SCf-c. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCf-c in the self-exit mode is the same as the exit area ARd in the top screen SCf-a in the self-entry mode. That is, the top screen SCf-c has a "checkout" button BTh arranged thereon.

[0144] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCf-c of the exit self mode proceeds to ACT85. The processor 201 checks whether an exit operation has been performed in ACT85. If an exit operation has not been performed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT86. The processor 201 checks whether a specific operation has been performed in ACT86. The specific operation is the same as the specific operation described in the "Description of Entry / Exit Self Mode". If a specific operation has not been performed, the processor 201 returns to ACT85. In this way, the processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the top screen SCf-c waits for an exit operation to be performed or for a specific operation to be performed in ACT85 and ACT86.

[0145] The operator of the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCf-c is displayed is the user. The user performs an exit operation. That is, a customer using a karaoke booth, that is, a user, operates the reception terminal 2 at the reception desk when arriving at the store to perform an exit operation. This exit operation is the same as the exit operation described in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode."

[0146] When an exit operation is performed in the standby state of ACT85 and ACT86, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT87. The processor 201 executes the exit process as ACT87. This exit process is also the same as the exit process described as ACT49 in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode". Therefore, for the exit operation and the exit process, the description in the "Explanation of the Entry / Exit Self Mode" is substituted as is, and the description here is omitted.

[0147] When the processor 201 detects that a specific operation OPh has been performed while in the standby state of ACT85 and ACT86, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT88. The processor 201 sends a sign-off notification to the reception server 1 as ACT88. The processing of the sign-off notification is the same as the processing of the sign-off notification described as ACT50 in the "Description of the Entry / Exit Self Mode". The operation of the reception server 1 upon receiving the sign-off notification is also the same. Therefore, for the sign-off notification, the description in the "Description of the Entry / Exit Self Mode" is used as is, and the description here is omitted.

[0148] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has issued the sign-off notice proceeds to ACT89. The processor 201 stops the exit self mode APL, which is the fourth application software 44, in ACT89. The processor 201 also clears the data stored in the manager memory 51 and the mode memory 52 in ACT90. In this way, the processor 201 that has accepted the sign-off input executes the sign-off process. The sign-off process includes the processes of ACT88 to ACT90 described above. In other words, the sign-off is a process for canceling the authentication of the employee who has signed on and returning the reception terminal 2 to the default state. After completing the sign-off process, the processor 201 returns to ACT1 in FIG. 8. In other words, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to the sign-on screen SCa.

[0149] Here, the processor 201 realizes the function of the storage means 32 by processing ACT81. The processor 201 realizes the function of the notification means 33 by processing ACT83. The processor 201 realizes the function of the self control means 35 by processing ACT82 to ACT87.

[0150] [Explanation of reception terminal operation] 23 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the transition of the operation procedure related to the attended mode and the screen displayed on the reception terminal. For example, when an employee performs a start-up operation OPa on the reception terminal 2 before opening, a sign-on screen SCa is displayed on the touch panel 207, which is a display device of the reception terminal 2. The employee then performs a sign-on operation OPb. When the sign-on operation OPb is performed, the screen on the touch panel 207 becomes a mode selection screen SCb.

[0151] Here, when the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the attended mode, the employee inputs the "attended" button BTa as the mode selection operation POc. When the "attended" button BTa is input, "100", which is information specifying the attended mode, is stored in the mode memory 52 of the reception terminal 2. Also, the "attended mode APL", which is the first application software 41, is started. Then, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the attended mode top screen SCc. Thus, the reception terminal 2 operates as a model of the attended mode in which the entrance operation and the exit operation OPd are performed by the employee.

[0152] When an employee performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPd on the reception terminal 2 in which the attended mode is set, the screen on the touch panel 207 transitions to an entry / exit processing screen SCd in the attended mode. The employee can input first data required when a user enters the karaoke booth or second data required when a user leaves the karaoke booth via the entry / exit processing screen SCd. Then, when the employee completes the entry operation or exit operation, the screen on the touch panel 207 returns to the attended mode top screen SCc.

[0153] On the other hand, when an employee operates the business button OPe, that is, touches the business button BTe, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the business menu screen SCe. Here, when the employee performs the sign-off operation OPf, the reception terminal 2 operating in the manned mode enters the sign-off state. That is, the employee code stored in the manager memory 51 is cleared. Also, the data in the mode memory 52 is cleared. Then, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the sign-on screen SCa.

[0154] Therefore, for example, when an employee performs a sign-on operation OPb and inputs the "attended" button BTa as a mode selection operation OPc, the reception terminal 2 continues to operate as a model in the attended mode.

[0155] In contrast, when the employee inputs the "Entry / Exit" button BTb, the "Entry only" button BTc or the "Exit only" button BTd on the mode selection screen SCb as the mode selection operation OPc, the reception terminal 2 operates as a self-mode model.

[0156] FIG. 24 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation procedure related to the self-mode and the transition of the screen displayed on the reception terminal. As described above, when the employee inputs the "entrance / exit" button BTb, the "entrance only" button BTc, or the "exit only" button BTd on the mode selection screen SCb as the mode selection operation OPc, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the top screen SCf of the self-mode. Specifically, when the employee inputs the "entrance / exit" button BTb, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the top screen SCf-a of the entry / exit self-mode, when the employee inputs the "entrance only" button BTc, the top screen SCf-b of the entry self-mode, and when the employee inputs the "exit only" button BTd, the top screen SCf-c of the exit self-mode. Thus, the reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCf-a is displayed operates as a model of the entry / exit self-mode in which the user performs the entry operation and the exit operation OPg. The reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCf-b is displayed operates as a model of the entry self-mode in which the user performs the entry operation OPg. The reception terminal 2 on which the top screen SCf-c is displayed operates as a model of a self-exit mode in which the user performs an exit operation OPg.

[0157] When a user performs an entry operation or an exit operation OPg on the reception terminal 2 in which the self mode is set, the screen of the touch panel 207 transitions to an entry / exit processing screen SCg in the self mode. For example, when a user inputs the "No reservation" button BTg on the top screen SCf-a or top screen SCf-b, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the number of users input screen SCg-a. When a user inputs the "Payment" button BTh on the top screen SCf-a or top screen SCf-c, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the slip reading screen SCg-b. In this way, the user can input the first data or the second data via the entry / exit processing screen SCg. Then, when the entry operation or the exit operation is completed, the screen of the touch panel 207 returns to the top screen SCf of the self mode.

[0158] On the other hand, when the employee touches any four positions on the touch panel 207 with his / her finger as a specific operation OPh, the reception terminal 2 operating in the self mode enters a sign-off state. That is, the employee code stored in the person in charge memory 51 is cleared. Also, the data in the mode memory 52 is cleared. Then, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the sign-on screen SCa.

[0159] Therefore, for example, when an employee performs a sign-on operation OPb and inputs the "attended" button BTa as a mode selection operation OPc, the reception terminal 2 operates as a model in the attended mode. Alternatively, when an employee inputs the "enter / exit" button BTb, the "enter only" button BTc, or the "exit only" button BTd, the reception terminal 2 operates as a model in the self-service mode. In that case, it is possible to continue to operate the reception terminal 2 as a model in the same self-service mode, or to operate it as a model in a different self-service mode.

[0160] [Explanation regarding transactions in the reception system] 25 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure for a transaction in the reception system 100. In the reception system 100, the reception terminal 2, the reception server 1, and the order terminal 3 are devices that process data related to a transaction with a user. The reception terminal 2 may be in an attended mode or a self-service mode.

[0161] 23 or 24, when a sign-on operation OPb is performed at the reception terminal 2 and then a mode selection operation OPc is performed, the reception terminal 2 in the attended mode and the reception terminal 2 in a self-service mode other than the exit self-service mode accept input of first data. The first data includes the box number of the karaoke box used by the user, membership information, the number of users, the start time of use, a course menu, an option menu, etc.

[0162] When a customer arrives at the store, the first data is input by an entrance operation OPd by an employee at the reception terminal 2 in the manned mode. The first data is input by an entrance operation OPg by the customer at the reception terminal 2 in a self-service mode other than the exit self-service mode. When the first data is input, the reception terminal 2 issues a reception slip SL based on the first data.

[0163] Furthermore, the first data entered into the reception terminal 2 is transmitted to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the first data in a box-specific file 62. Specifically, the reception server 1 stores the first data received from the reception terminal 2 in a box-specific file 62 identified by the box number included in the first data. The first data in the box-specific file 62 becomes transaction data required to settle a transaction with a user.

[0164] Incidentally, the course menu and option menu included in the first data input at the time of reception are data of the product menu ordered by the user. On the other hand, the user can also order the product menu while using the karaoke booth. The product menu can be ordered by the user operating the ordering terminal 3. Alternatively, if there is a reception terminal 2 operating in manned mode, an employee can operate the reception terminal 2 to order the product menu. The order data input via the ordering terminal 3 or the reception terminal 2 is transmitted to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the order data in the corresponding box-specific file 62. In this way, the order data is added to the transaction data necessary to settle the transaction with the user.

[0165] Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 in the attended mode and the reception terminal 2 in a self-service mode other than the entry self-service mode accept the input of second data. The second data is the box number of the karaoke box used by the user, the time of completion of use, the payment method, etc. The box number can be input by reading it from the machine-readable code printed on the reception slip SL. In the reception terminal 2 in the attended mode, the second data is input by an entrance operation OPd by an employee. In the reception terminal 2 in a self-service mode other than the entry self-service mode, the second data is input by an entrance operation OPg by the user.

[0166] The second data entered into the reception terminal 2 is transmitted to the reception server 1. The reception server 1 stores the second data in the corresponding box-specific file 62. In this way, the second data is added to the transaction data required to settle the transaction with the user.

[0167] The reception server 1 transmits the data in the box-specific file 62, that is, the transaction data including the first data, order data, and second data, to the reception terminal 2 to which the second data was input. Having received the transaction data, the reception terminal 2 executes a settlement process according to the selected payment method. The reception terminal 2 then issues a receipt RE on which details of the transaction data are printed. The receipt may be an electronic receipt. This completes the transaction with the user related to the reception system 100.

[0168] [Explanation of Effects of the Embodiment] As described above in detail, the reception terminal 2 of this embodiment can be operated as a reception terminal 2 in attended mode by inputting the "Attended" button BTa on the mode selection screen SCb displayed after the sign-on operation, and can be operated as a reception terminal 2 in self-service mode by inputting the "Entry / Exit" button BTb, the "Entry only" button BTc or the "Exit only" button BTd.

[0169] Therefore, for example, in a facility such as a karaoke booth store where five reception terminals 2 are installed at the reception, on days or times when there are many users, three of the reception terminals 2 are operated as manned reception terminals 2 and two as self-service reception terminals 2. On days or times when there are few users, two of the reception terminals 2 are operated as manned reception terminals and three as self-service reception terminals 2. In this way, a reception system 100 can be easily realized in which some of the reception terminals 2 installed at the reception are manned reception terminals and the rest are self-service reception terminals, and which can efficiently handle users. It is also easy to realize that all of the reception terminals 2 installed at the reception are manned reception terminals or self-service reception terminals.

[0170] Furthermore, the self-service reception terminal 2 may be a model of an entrance self-service mode that accepts only the input of the first data related to the entrance reception function, or a model of an exit self-service mode that accepts only the input of the second data related to the exit reception function. Furthermore, it is also possible to use a model of an entrance / exit self-service mode that accepts both the input of the first data related to the entrance reception function and the input of the second data related to the exit reception function. Therefore, for the self-service mode reception terminals 2, the number of reception terminals 2 having the entrance reception function and the number of reception terminals 2 having the exit reception function can be appropriately changed within a limited number range.

[0171] Incidentally, when changing the operation mode of a reception terminal 2 in operation, it is sufficient to perform a sign-off operation once and then a sign-on operation again. Therefore, for example, when switching a reception terminal 2 that has been operating in manned mode to self-service mode, the employee operating the reception terminal 2 can quickly change the operation mode by performing a sign-off operation and a sign-on operation.

[0172] On the other hand, the reception terminal 2 operating in self mode is signed off by the employee performing the specific operation OPh, and the employee can then perform the sign-on operation. Therefore, the operation mode can also be changed quickly. Moreover, the reception terminal 2 operating in self mode will not sign off unless the specific operation OPh is performed. The specific operation is a special operation that is not possible as an entry or exit operation by a user. Therefore, there is almost no possibility that the reception terminal 2 operating in self mode will be signed off by a user's operation, and the system can be operated stably.

[0173] Furthermore, the reception terminal 2 has a notification means 33, and notifies the reception server 1 of the operation mode selected by the mode selection means 31. Meanwhile, the reception server 1 has a reception terminal table 61, and stores information on the operation mode notified from each reception terminal 2 for each reception terminal. Therefore, there is an advantage in that by referring to the information in the reception terminal table 61, the number of reception terminals 2 operating in the attended mode and the number of reception terminals 2 operating in the self-service mode can be easily confirmed.

[0174] [Second embodiment] Fig. 26 is a flow chart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 201 of the receiving terminal 2 in the second embodiment. Fig. 26 corresponds to the information processing of the steps explained in the flow chart of Fig. 8 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the parts common to Fig. 8.

[0175] 26, the processor 201 executes the same processes as those in the first embodiment from ACT1 to ACT5. That is, the processor 201 displays a sign-on screen SCa on the touch panel 207 and waits for a sign-on operation OPb. When the sign-on operation OPb is performed, the processor 201 sends a sign-on notification to the reception server 1. Then, when the sign-on is approved, the processor 201 writes the employee code of the employee who has signed on in the person-in-charge memory 51.

[0176] Upon completing ACT1 to ACT5, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT101. In ACT101, the processor 201 displays the mode selection screen SCh (see FIG. 27) on the screen of the touch panel 207.

[0177] Fig. 27 is a display example of the mode selection screen SCh. As shown in the figure, the mode selection screen SCh has an "attended" button BTi and a "self" button BTj arranged thereon. The "attended" button BTi and the "self" button BTj are both software keys. The "attended" button BTi is an operator for selecting the attended mode, that is, the first operator. The "self" button BTj is an operator for selecting the self mode, that is, the second operator.

[0178] After checking the mode selection screen SCh, the employee performs a mode selection operation OPi (see FIG. 29). Specifically, when the employee operates the reception terminal 2 in the attended mode, the employee inputs the "attended" button BTi. When the employee operates the reception terminal 2 in the self-service mode, the employee inputs the "self-service" button BTj.

[0179] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the mode selection screen SCh proceeds to ACT102. The processor 201 waits for any button to be pressed in ACT102. When the processor 201 detects that any button has been pressed by a signal from the touch panel 207, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT103. The processor 201 determines whether or not the "Attended" button BTi has been pressed in ACT103. If the "Attended" button BTi has been pressed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT21 in FIG. 9 described in the first embodiment. Thereafter, the processor 201 executes the processes of ACT21 to ACT34 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0180] On the other hand, if the "self" button BTj is pressed instead of the "attended" button BTi, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT 104. In ACT 104, the processor 201 sets the screen of the touch panel 207 to a self mode selection screen SCi.

[0181] Fig. 28 is a display example of the self mode selection screen SCi. As shown in the figure, the self mode selection screen SCi has an "Entry / Exit" button BTj, an "Entry only" button BTk, and an "Exit only" button BTm arranged thereon. The "Entry / Exit" button BTj is a third operator for selecting the entry / exit self mode. The "Entry only" button BTk is a fourth operator for selecting the entry self mode. The "Exit only" button BTm is a fifth operator for selecting the exit self mode.

[0182] After checking the self-mode selection screen SCi, the employee performs a self-mode selection operation OPj (see FIG. 29). That is, if the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the entry / exit self-mode, the employee touches the "entrance / exit" button BTj. If the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the entry self-mode, the employee touches the "entrance only" button BTk. If the operation mode of the reception terminal 2 is to be the exit self-mode, the employee touches the "exit only" button BTm.

[0183] The processor 201 of the reception terminal 2 that has displayed the self mode selection screen SCi proceeds to ACT105. The processor 201 waits for any button to be input in ACT105. When it detects that any button has been input by a signal from the touch panel 207, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT106. The processor 201 checks whether or not the "enter / exit" button BTj has been input in ACT106. If the "enter / exit" button BTj has not been input, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT107. The processor 201 checks whether or not the "enter only" button BTk has been input in ACT107. If the "enter only" button BTk has not been input, the processor 201 recognizes that the "exit only" button BTm has been input.

[0184] Here, when the "enter / exit" button BTb is pressed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT41 in Fig. 10 described in the first embodiment. After that, the processor 201 executes the processes of ACT41 to ACT52 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0185] On the other hand, when the "enter only" button BTc is pressed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT61 in Fig. 11 described in the first embodiment. After that, the processor 201 executes the processes of ACT61 to ACT70 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0186] Also, when the "Exit only" button BTd is pressed, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT81 in Fig. 12 described in the first embodiment. After that, the processor 201 executes the processes of ACT81 to ACT90 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0187] Fig. 29 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation procedure related to the self mode and the transition of the screen displayed on the reception terminal 2 in the second embodiment. Compared with the first embodiment shown in Fig. 24, the mode selection screen SCh is different in the second embodiment. Also, when a mode selection operation OPi for selecting the self mode is performed on the mode selection screen SCh, the screen of the touch panel 207 transitions to the self mode selection screen SCi. Then, when a self mode selection operation OPj is performed on the self mode selection screen SCi, the screen of the touch panel 207 becomes the top screen SCf of the self mode. The above are the differences from the first embodiment.

[0188] It goes without saying that the second embodiment, which operates as described above, can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0189] [Variations] In the above embodiment, when switching the operation mode of the reception terminal 2, the reception terminal 2 is signed off once before switching the operation mode. In this regard, the operation mode may be switched without signing off. For example, in the reception terminal 2 operating in the attended mode, a "mode switch" button is added to the business menu screen SCe. Then, when the "mode switch" button is input, the processor 201 changes the screen of the touch panel 207 to the mode selection screen SCb. On the other hand, in the reception terminal 2 operating in the self mode, when a specific operation OPh is performed, the processor 201 changes the screen of the touch panel 207 to the mode selection screen SCb. By configuring in this way, the operation mode can be switched without signing off.

[0190] In the above embodiment, since the user always signs off before switching the operation mode, the first data or the second data input to the reception terminal 2 before the switching is cleared. However, if the operation mode is switched without signing off, the first data or the second data may remain. Such first data or the second data may be or may not be carried over even after the operation mode is switched.

[0191] In the above embodiment, the specific operation is awaited when the entrance operation or the exit operation is awaited in the self mode. The specific operation may be received during the entrance process after the entrance operation is received, or during the exit process after the exit operation is received. For example, when the specific operation is received during the entrance process or the exit process, the processor 201 discards the data related to the entrance process or the exit process that has been input up to that point and signs off. Alternatively, when an abnormality such as an error occurs during the entrance process or the exit process and the specific operation is received, the processor 201 maintains the data related to the entrance process or the exit process that has been input up to that point and signs off. In this case, a display for the store clerk according to the error that has occurred may be displayed.

[0192] In the above embodiment, the reception terminal 2 has been described as executing four types of application software 41 to 44, namely, "attended mode APL", "entrance / exit self-service mode APL", "entrance self-service mode APL" and "exit self-service mode APL". These four types of application software 41 to 44 may be configured as one application software. Alternatively, the three types relating to the self-service mode, namely, "entrance / exit self-service mode APL", "entrance self-service mode APL" and "exit self-service mode APL", may be configured as one application software.

[0193] In the above embodiment, the reception terminal 2 is mainly composed of the tablet PC 20. The reception terminal 2 may be mainly composed of a personal computer equipped with a keyboard and a display. Also, the reception terminal 2 may be a product registration device such as a general-purpose POS (Point Of Sales) terminal.

[0194] In the above embodiment, the facility used by the user is a karaoke box, and the reception terminal 2 is installed at the reception of the karaoke box store that operates the karaoke box. The facility is not limited to a karaoke box. For example, it may be a leisure facility such as a darts bar or a manga cafe, or an athletic facility such as a sports gym, a golf course, or a bowling alley. That is, the reception terminal 2 installed at the reception of these facilities may be able to switch between a manned mode and a self-operated mode as in the present embodiment. Therefore, the first data required when the user enters the facility and the second data required when the user leaves the facility are also changed appropriately depending on the type of the facility. For example, in a facility where the facility usage fee is a fixed amount, data related to the accounting of the facility usage fee may be input as the first data.

[0195] Although several other embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope of the invention and the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0196] 1...reception server, 2...reception terminal, 3...order terminal, 4...kitchen terminal, 5...communication network, 6...box database, 7...employee database, 8...membership database, 9...product database, 20...tablet PC, 21...printer, 22...card reader, 23...change machine, 24...cashless payment terminal, 31...mode selection means, 32...storage means, 33...notification means, 34...manned control means, 35...self-control means, 51...manager memory, 52...mode memory, 61...reception terminal table, 62...file by box.

Claims

1. a mode selection means for displaying on a display device a mode selection screen for selecting an operation mode between a manned mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data related to an entry reception function for receiving an input of first data required when a user enters a facility and an exit reception function for receiving an input of second data required when the user exits the facility, and a self-operated mode in which the user inputs the first data and the second data; a storage means for storing information on the operation mode selected by the mode selection means; an attendant control means for, when the information stored by the storage means is information of the attendant mode, changing a screen of the display device to a screen of the attendant mode and accepting an input of the first data or an input of the second data; a self control means for, when the information stored in the storage means is information of the self mode, changing a screen of the display device to a self mode screen and accepting an input of the first data or an input of the second data; A reception device comprising:

2. The reception device of claim 1, wherein the mode selection screen includes as self-mode options an entry self-mode that accepts only input of the first data related to the entry reception function, and an exit self-mode that accepts only input of the second data related to the exit reception function.

3. The reception device according to claim 2, wherein the mode selection screen further includes, as a self mode, an entry / exit self mode which accepts input of both the first data related to the entry reception function and the second data related to the exit reception function.

4. 2. The reception device according to claim 1, wherein the mode selection means displays the mode selection screen on the display device when a sign-on is performed to authenticate an operator of the reception device and make the device usable while the operation mode information is in a standby state in which the storage means does not store information on the operation mode.

5. 2. The reception device according to claim 1, wherein the mode selection means displays the mode selection screen on the display device when a specific operation that is not used when operating in a self-mode operation state in which information about the self-mode is stored in the storage means is performed.

6. A computer of a reception device having a display device, a mode selection means for displaying on the display device a mode selection screen for selecting an operation mode between a manned mode in which an employee inputs the first data and the second data related to an entry reception function for accepting input of first data required when a user enters a facility and an exit reception function for accepting input of second data required when the user exits the facility, and a self-operated mode in which the user inputs the first data and the second data; a storage means for storing information on the operation mode selected by the mode selection means; an attendant control means for, when the information stored by the storage means is the attendant mode information, changing a screen of the display device to a attended mode screen and receiving an input of the first data or the second data; and a self-control means for, when the information stored by the storage means is information on the self-mode, changing a screen of the display device to a self-mode screen and accepting an input of the first data or an input of the second data; A program to function as a

Images