Information terminal, program thereof, and electronic receipt system

Abstract

To provide an information terminal, a program thereof, and an electronic receipt system for easily acquiring an image file obtained by converting an image of a receipt displayed on a display device into a file.SOLUTION: An information terminal 30 includes communication means, control means, creation means, and execution means. The communication means communicates with a receipt server that stores receipt data obtained by digitizing a receipt indicating purchase data of a purchaser in association with purchaser identification information identifying the purchaser. The control means displays a receipt image based on the receipt data received from the receipt server via the communication means, on one screen of a display device, together with an instruction unit for instructing processing related to storage of the receipt image. The creation means creates an image file obtained by converting information on the receipt image displayed on the display device into a file. The execution means executes processing related to storage instructed by the instruction unit, on the image file created by the creation means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information terminal, a program therefor, and an electronic receipt system. [Background technology]

[0002] In Japan, the invoice system will be introduced as a new input tax credit system from October 1, 2023. When the invoice system is introduced, buyers who are consumption tax payers will be able to receive input tax credits only if the invoices issued by sellers who are qualified invoice issuers meet the requirements for qualified invoices.

[0003] Generally, when a store sells goods to an unspecified number of buyers, the seller issues a receipt to the buyer. The receipt originally has the transaction date, transaction details, tax rate applicable amount, tax amount, etc. printed on it, so if the registration number of the qualified invoice issuer is further printed on the receipt, it becomes possible to use the receipt as a qualified invoice.

[0004] Meanwhile, in recent years, services that digitize receipts and display images of receipts on information terminals such as smartphones, so-called electronic receipt services, have been developed and put into practical use. Receipts displayed as images on information terminals by electronic receipt services can also be qualified invoices if they meet the requirements. However, in order for an image of a receipt to be a qualified invoice, the image of the receipt needs to be converted into an image file and stored. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-187822 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide an information terminal and an electronic receipt system that can easily obtain an image file that is a file of an image of a receipt displayed on a display device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the information terminal includes a communication means, a control means, a creation means, and an execution means. The communication means communicates with a receipt server that stores receipt data that is an electronic version of a receipt showing the purchase data of a purchaser in association with purchaser identification information that identifies the purchaser. The control means displays, on one screen of the display device, a receipt image based on the receipt data received from the receipt server via the communication means, together with an instruction unit that instructs processing related to storage of the receipt image. The creation means creates an image file that files information about the receipt image displayed on the display device. The execution means executes processing related to storage instructed by the instruction unit for the image file created by the creation means. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of an electronic receipt system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of a receipt record. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of a membership record. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the information terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the procedure of main information processing executed by the processor of the information terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the procedure of main information processing executed by the processor of the information terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the procedure of main information processing executed by the processor of the information terminal. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of main information processing executed by the processor of the information terminal. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of main information processing executed by the processor of the information terminal. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the main information processing steps executed by the processor of the receipt server. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the home screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the setting screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the receipt list screen. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the receipt details screen. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the storage method selection screen. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the preview screen. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a pop-up image. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the preview screen. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a pop-up image. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the condition input screen. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a pull-down list from which the type of receipt can be selected. [Diagram 23] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the refined receipt list screen. [Figure 24]FIG. 24 is a process sequence diagram of the information terminal and receipt server when a process for saving an image file in a storage unit included in the information terminal is instructed as a process for storing a receipt image. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a process sequence diagram of the information terminal and receipt server when a process for storing a receipt image is instructed to send an e-mail with an image file attached to a specific e-mail address. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a receipt that can be used as a qualified invoice. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a corrected receipt when the receipt shown in FIG. 26 is used as the original receipt. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an information terminal that can easily obtain an image file of an image of a receipt displayed on a display device will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] [Explanation of the electronic receipt system] First, an electronic receipt system that enables a buyer who purchases goods at a store to display an image of a receipt that records purchase data and the like, which is a list of the purchased goods, on a display device of an information terminal owned by the buyer will be described.

[0011] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of an electronic receipt system 100. The electronic receipt system 100 includes a receipt server 10 and multiple POS (Point Of Sales) terminals 20. The receipt server 10 is provided in a receipt center 1. The receipt center 1 is a computer system managed by a company that operates the electronic receipt service. The receipt center 1 may include servers other than the receipt server 10.

[0012] Each POS terminal 20 is provided in a store 2. The store 2 is a store that sells products to an unspecified number of buyers, such as a supermarket, a convenience store, or a specialized retail store. The store 2 may be a store that sells products to specific buyers. Alternatively, the store 2 may be a store that provides services, such as a barber shop, a rental shop, or a bowling alley. Although FIG. 1 shows one POS terminal 20 provided in one store 2, the number of POS terminals 20 is not particularly limited. Two or more POS terminals 20 may be provided in one store 2.

[0013] The electronic receipt system 100 connects the receipt server 10 and the POS terminal 20 of each store 2 via a first communication network NWa. The first communication network NWa is a network dedicated to the electronic receipt system, for example, using the Internet, an intranet, a VPN (virtual private network), etc. Note that the POS terminal 20 may not be directly connected to the first communication network NWa, but may be connected to the first communication network NWa via a relay device such as a communication server.

[0014] The POS terminal 20 is a payment device that executes a process of registering data of items purchased by a buyer and a process of settling a transaction with the buyer. The POS terminal 20 may be a face-to-face POS terminal in which a store clerk is responsible for operations for registration and for settlement, or a self-service POS terminal in which a consumer is responsible for operations for registration and for settlement. Alternatively, the POS terminal 20 may be a shared POS terminal in which a store clerk is responsible for operations for registration and a consumer is responsible for operations for settlement. The face-to-face, self-service, and shared POS terminals may all be well-known and may be applied as they are. The POS terminal 20 may be referred to as an electronic cash register, a checkout device, a product sales data processing device, a product registration device, or the like.

[0015] The payment device may be, for example, a payment device (clearance device) that does not have a registration function for registering products, but has a function for performing payment processing based on registered registration information. The payment device may also be a system composed of a tablet terminal for inputting or displaying product information, and a server connected to the tablet terminal via a communication network. In this case, the tablet terminal functions as a device for inputting product information and displaying the input product information. The server functions as a device that receives product information input by the tablet terminal, performs registration processing, and executes payment processing based on the registered information.

[0016] The POS terminal 20 has an electronic receipt function that digitizes receipts issued to a buyer if the buyer is an electronic receipt member who has registered with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. The electronic receipt function can be achieved, for example, by implementing a dedicated agent program. The agent program is application software for generating electronic receipt data based on the print data of the receipt. Specifically, the agent program analyzes the print data of the receipt to extract information to be included in the receipt data, and determines an item name indicating what kind of information the information is based on the position of the information on the receipt. The agent program then generates data representing an association between the extracted information and the item name determined for the information as receipt data. The generated receipt data is transmitted to the receipt server 10 via the first communication network NWa.

[0017] The receipt server 10 is a computer device that provides a service that enables a buyer who is an electronic receipt member to view images of receipts issued by each store 2 on an information terminal 30 owned by that buyer. The receipt server 10 may provide the service in an on-premise environment, or may provide the service in a cloud computing environment.

[0018] The information terminal 30 is a portable communication terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. Dedicated application software corresponding to the electronic receipt service, so-called electronic receipt application 43 (see FIG. 5), is installed in the information terminal 30. The owner of the information terminal 30 in which the electronic receipt application 43 is installed first registers as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service using the electronic receipt application 43. By registering as a member, the operating company assigns unique identification information, so-called electronic receipt ID, to the owner. The electronic receipt ID is set in the information terminal 30. Then, for example, when the electronic receipt application 43 is started on the information terminal 30, the electronic receipt ID is displayed in the form of a machine-readable code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code on the top screen displayed on the display device of the information terminal 30. The owner of the information terminal 30 who has completed the member registration, so-called an electronic receipt member, can receive a receipt issued for the purchase as an electronic receipt when shopping at the store 2, that is, when becoming a buyer, by having the POS terminal 20 read the electronic receipt ID.

[0019] The receipt server 10 receives and stores receipt data generated by each POS terminal 20. When an electronic receipt inquiry is made from an information terminal 30 owned by an electronic receipt member via the second communication network NWb, the receipt server 10 extracts receipt data generated by the POS terminal 20 when the electronic receipt member is a buyer. The receipt server 10 transmits receipt image data based on the extracted receipt data to the information terminal 30 via the second communication network NWb. Thus, the requested receipt is displayed as an image on the display device of the information terminal 30.

[0020] In this way, the second communication network NWb is a wide area network capable of transferring data between the receipt server 10 and the information terminal 30 owned by each electronic receipt member. A computer device 50 capable of receiving e-mails transmitted via the second communication network NWb can be connected to the second communication network NWb. The computer device 50 is, for example, a personal computer. The computer device 50 may also be, for example, a cloud server. In this way, the second communication network NWb capable of transmitting not only receipt image data but also e-mails can be, for example, the Internet, a mobile communication network, a public communication network, etc., used alone or in appropriate combination.

[0021] [Receipt server configuration explanation] 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server 10. The receipt server 10 includes a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, a first communication interface 14, a second communication interface 15, and a system transmission path 16. The system transmission path 16 includes an address bus, a data bus, and a control signal line. The system transmission path 16 connects the processor 11 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0022] The receipt server 10 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, a first communication interface 14, and a second communication interface 15 via a system transmission line 16.

[0023] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 11 controls each part to realize various functions of the receipt server 10 according to an operating system or application programs. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 11 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0024] 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 (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0025] The auxiliary storage device 13 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 13. 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.

[0026] The first communication interface 14 is an interface for performing data communication with the POS terminal 20 of each store 2 via the first communication network NWa. The second communication interface 15 is an interface for performing data communication with the information terminal 30 or the computer device 50 via the second communication network NWb.

[0027] In the receipt server 10 configured as above, part of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 13 is used as an area for a receipt file 17 and a member file 18. The receipt server 10 also stores in the auxiliary storage device 13 application software for creating and sending e-mails, known as a mailer 19. The mailer 19 may also be stored in the main memory 12 instead of in the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0028] The receipt file 17 is a data file for storing receipt records 171 (see FIG. 3) that are generated for each receipt data received from each POS terminal 20. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the receipt record 171. As shown in the figure, the receipt record 171 includes an electronic receipt ID, receipt identification information, receipt data, and type information. The electronic receipt ID is displayed on the top screen of the information terminal 30 and is read by the POS terminal 20 when an electronic receipt member becomes a buyer. The electronic receipt ID is transmitted from the POS terminal 20 to the receipt server 10 together with the receipt data.

[0029] The receipt identification information is information necessary for an electronic receipt member to identify a receipt. For example, most electronic receipt members can identify a receipt if they have information on when, at which store, and what was purchased when the receipt was issued. That is, the receipt identification information is, for example, composed of the transaction date, store name, and payment amount included in the receipt data. The receipt identification information may also include other information.

[0030] The type information is information that indicates the type of receipt issued by the POS terminal 20. In addition to purchase receipts that are issued when a buyer registers a purchased item in the POS terminal 20, there are also return receipts that are issued when a buyer registers a returned item in the POS terminal 20, and correction receipts that are issued when an error in the transaction details is corrected in the REGI-MINUS mode of the POS terminal 20. The type information is information for identifying the type of receipt, such as a purchase receipt, return receipt, or correction receipt. The type information is included in the receipt data generated by the POS terminal 20.

[0031] The member file 18 is a data file for storing a member record 181 (see FIG. 4) generated for each electronic receipt member. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the member record 181. As shown in the figure, the member record 181 includes an electronic receipt ID, terminal information, member information, a destination folder, and an email destination address. The terminal information is information about the information terminal 30 owned by the electronic receipt member identified by the electronic receipt ID. For example, the terminal ID and IP address of the information terminal 30 are included in the terminal information. The member information is information about the electronic receipt member identified by the electronic receipt ID. For example, the name, email address, etc. are included in the member information.

[0032] The destination folder is information indicating the path of a folder set by the electronic receipt member as a storage location when converting and saving the image of the receipt displayed on the display device of the information terminal 30 into an image file. The storage location specified by the destination folder is, for example, the internal storage 32 (see FIG. 5) of the information terminal 30, or a part of the storage area of ​​the external memory 40 (see FIG. 5). The electronic receipt member can store the image file of the receipt image in the storage unit of the information terminal 30 specified by the destination folder.

[0033] The email sending address is an email address set by the electronic receipt member as a destination when attaching an image file obtained by converting the image of the receipt displayed on the display device of the information terminal 30 to an email and sending it. The electronic receipt member can store the image file of the receipt image in the memory unit of the computer device 50 to which the email address is set.

[0034] Among the electronic receipt members who are buyers at the store 2, if the receipt issued by the store 2 is a receipt that complies with the invoice system, the consumption tax payer can use the receipt as a qualified invoice by converting the image of the receipt into an image file and storing it. Therefore, when the electronic receipt member who is the tax payer stores the image file of the receipt image in the information terminal 30, the electronic receipt member registers a storage folder with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. When the image file of the receipt image is stored in the computer device 50, the electronic receipt member registers the email address of the computer device 50 as the email destination address with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. Note that the electronic receipt member may register either the storage folder or the email destination address, or may register both.

[0035] The processor 11 of the receipt server 10 having a receipt file 17 , a membership file 18 , and a mailer 19 has the functions of a storage means 111 , an update means 112 , a response means 113 , and an email sending means 114 .

[0036] The storage means 111 has a function of creating a receipt record 171 based on receipt data received from each POS terminal 20 via the first communication network NWa and storing the receipt record 17 in the receipt file 17. When the storage means 111 receives receipt data from the POS terminal 20, it acquires the electronic receipt ID received together with the receipt data. The storage means 111 also extracts receipt identifying information, such as the transaction date, store name, and payment amount, from the receipt data. The storage means 111 also acquires type information from the receipt data. In this way, the storage means 111 creates a receipt record 171 based on the electronic receipt ID, receipt identifying information, receipt data, and type information, and adds it to the receipt file 17. Note that if the type information indicates a correction receipt, the receipt record 171 of the purchase receipt issued in the transaction that is the basis of the transaction corrected in the register-minus mode exists in the receipt file 17. The storage means 111 changes the type information in the receipt record 171 of this purchase receipt, the so-called original receipt, from information indicating a purchase receipt to information indicating an original receipt.

[0037] The update means 112 is a function that updates the member record 181 stored in the member file 18 based on update data of the member record 181 received from the information terminal 30 via the second communication network NWb. When the update means 112 receives update data of, for example, a destination folder from the information terminal 30, the update means 112 updates the destination folder of the member record 181 including the electronic receipt ID of the electronic receipt member who is the owner of the information terminal 30 to the contents of the update data. When the update means 112 receives update data of, for example, an email destination address from the information terminal 30, the update means 112 updates the email destination address of the member record 181 including the electronic receipt ID of the electronic receipt member who is the owner of the information terminal 30 to the contents of the update data.

[0038] The response means 113 is a function that responds to a receipt viewing request from the information terminal 30 with an electronic receipt issued to the electronic receipt member who is the owner of the information terminal 30. When the response means 113 receives a receipt viewing request command from the information terminal 30, it extracts a receipt record 171 stored in the receipt file 17 in association with the electronic receipt ID included in the command. The response means 113 then generates data of a receipt list image based on receipt identification information of the extracted receipt record 171. The response means 113 transmits the data of the receipt list image to the information terminal 30 that issued the receipt viewing request. After that, when the response means 113 receives a receipt request command from the information terminal 30, it acquires receipt data of a receipt identified by the receipt identification information included in the command. The response means 113 generates receipt image data in, for example, HTML (HyperText Markup Language) format based on the receipt data, and transmits the data to the information terminal 30 that issued the receipt request. Incidentally, when the information terminal 30 receives the data in HTML format, an image of the receipt is displayed on the touch panel 35 by a browser, which is one of the application software programs that the information terminal 30 has.

[0039] The response means 113 also includes a function of responding to a receipt narrowing down request from the information terminal 30 with receipts that satisfy the narrowing down conditions from among electronic receipts issued to the electronic receipt member who is the owner of the information terminal 30. When the response means 113 receives a receipt narrowing down request command from the information terminal 30, it extracts receipt records 171 that satisfy the narrowing down conditions from among the receipt records 171 stored in the receipt file 17 in association with the electronic receipt ID included in the command. For example, if the narrowing down condition is an original receipt, it extracts receipt records 171 whose type information is information that indicates an original receipt. The response means 113 then generates data of a receipt list image of receipts that satisfy the narrowing down conditions based on the receipt identification information of the extracted receipt records 171. The response means 113 transmits the data of the receipt list image to the information terminal 30 that issued the receipt viewing request.

[0040] The email sending means 114 is a function for sending an email with an image file of a receipt image attached. When the email sending means 114 receives an email sending request command from the information terminal 30, it creates an image file in PDF (Portable Document Format) format for the receipt image displayed on the display device of the information terminal 30. Specifically, the data of the receipt image is converted into an image file compressed in, for example, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) format in the information terminal 30, and the image file is uploaded to the receipt server 10, so the email sending means 114 converts the image file into an image file in PDF format. The email sending means 114 then searches the member file 18 to obtain the email address of the electronic receipt member who is the owner of the information terminal 30 and the email destination address set by the email member, and sends an email with the image file in PDF format attached to the email address of the electronic receipt member as the sender address and the email destination address as the destination address.

[0041] [Information terminal configuration explanation] 5 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the information terminal 30. The information terminal 30 includes a processor 31, an internal storage 32, a wireless communication unit 33, a memory interface 34, a touch panel 35, a camera 36, ​​an audio circuit 37, a system transmission path 38, and the like.

[0042] The system transmission line 38 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission line 38 connects the processor 31 to each of the other units directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0043] The information terminal 30 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 31, the internal storage 32, and the wireless communication unit 33 through a system transmission path 38. The information terminal 30 connects a memory interface 34, a touch panel 35, a camera 36, ​​an audio circuit 37, and the like to the system transmission path 38 via a signal input / output circuit (not shown). The memory interface 34 is an interface for transmitting and receiving data signals to and from an external memory 40 that is detachably attached. The external memory 40 is typically an SD memory card, a miniSD card, a microSD card, and the like. The touch panel 35 functions as a display device and an input device of the information terminal 30. The camera 36 functions as an imaging device of the information terminal 30. The audio circuit 37 is a circuit that controls the microphone 41 and the speaker 42 to enable voice communication. Note that the interfaces, devices, circuits, and the like connected to the system transmission path 38 are not limited to those described above. Other interfaces, devices, circuits, and the like may be connected.

[0044] The processor 31 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 31 controls each part to realize various functions of the information terminal 30 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU.

[0045] The internal storage 32 is a storage device built into the housing of the information terminal 30. The internal storage 32 stores an operating system or an application program. The internal storage 32 may also store data necessary for the processor 31 to execute processes for controlling each unit.

[0046] The wireless communication unit 33 performs wireless voice communication or data communication with a base station connected to the second communication network NWb.

[0047] The information terminal 30 having such a configuration stores the above-mentioned electronic receipt application 43 in the internal storage 32. The electronic receipt application 43 may be stored in the external memory 40. The method of installing the electronic receipt application 43 in the internal storage 32 or the external memory 40 is not particularly limited. The electronic receipt application 43 distributed by communication via the second communication network NWb can be received and installed in the internal storage 32 or the external memory 40. Alternatively, the electronic receipt application 43 can be recorded on a removable recording medium and installed in the internal storage 32 or the external memory 40. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0048] The information terminal 30 with the electronic receipt app 43 installed can perform data communication with the receipt server 10 via wireless communication using the wireless communication unit 33. Here, the wireless communication unit 33 functions as a communication means for communicating with the receipt server 10. The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 also has the functions of a control means 311, a creation means 312, and an execution means 313.

[0049] The control means 311 has a function of displaying, on one screen of the display device, a receipt image based on receipt data received from the receipt server 10 via the wireless communication unit 33, together with an instruction unit that instructs processing related to storage of the receipt image. The display device is a touch panel 35. The control means 311 displays the receipt image on the touch panel 35. The control means 311 also displays an instruction unit on the screen of the touch panel 35 on which the receipt image is displayed. The instruction unit is a button image that functions as a soft key. The instruction unit instructs processing related to storage of the receipt image. The storage processing includes a first process for saving an image file in which information on the receipt image is filed in a storage unit provided in the information terminal 30, and a second process for sending an email with the image file attached to a specific email address. The storage unit provided in the information terminal 30 is the internal storage 32 or the external memory 40. The instruction unit instructs to selectively select the first process or the second process.

[0050] The creation means 312 is a function that creates an image file by converting the information of the receipt image displayed on the display device into a file. The creation means 312 uses a screenshot function or a scroll capture function to capture an image of the receipt displayed on the touch panel 35. The creation means 312 then converts the captured image into an image file in JPEG format, for example, to create an image file by converting the information of the receipt image into a file.

[0051] The execution means 313 is a function that executes a process for storage instructed by the instruction unit on the image file created by the creation means 312. For example, when the process for storage instructed by the instruction unit is a first process, the execution means 313 executes a process for saving the image file in a storage unit specified by a destination folder. For example, when the process for storage instructed by the instruction unit is a second process, the execution means 313 executes a process for attaching the image file to an e-mail addressed to the e-mail destination address and sending it.

[0052] [Explanation of how the electronic receipt system works] 6 to 10 are flow charts showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 31 of the information terminal 30. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 11 of the receipt server 10. FIG. 12 to 23 are examples of various images displayed on the touch panel 35, which is a display device of the information terminal 30. Below, the main operations of the electronic receipt system 100 will be explained using each figure. Note that the contents and procedures of the information processing described below are examples. The contents and procedures can be changed as appropriate as long as the same effect can be achieved. The images are also examples. The arrangement of various materials, the contents of the text, etc. can be changed as appropriate.

[0053] When the electronic receipt application 43 is started in the information terminal 30, the processor 31 starts information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of Fig. 6. In ACT1, the processor 31 sets the screen of the touch panel 35 to the home screen SCa (see Fig. 12).

[0054] FIG. 12 shows an example of an image displayed on the home screen SCa. As shown in the figure, the home screen SCa displays a barcode BC. The barcode BC is a barcode that is a machine-readable code that is obtained by converting an electronic receipt ID assigned to an electronic receipt member who is the owner of the information terminal 30. A two-dimensional code representing the electronic receipt ID may be displayed instead of the barcode. A part of the home screen SCa is a mode area MDa. The home screen SCa has a home button BTa, a receipt button BTb, and a setting button BTc arranged in the mode area MDa. The home button BTa, the receipt button BTb, and the setting button BTc are all soft keys. The home button BTa, the receipt button BTb, and the setting button BTc can be rephrased as icons. The soft keys arranged in the mode area MDa are not limited to the home button BTa, the receipt button BTb, and the setting button BTc. Soft keys (icons) representing other buttons may be arranged.

[0055] The home button BTa is an operator for receiving an instruction to return to the default mode. The default mode is a mode in which the home screen SCa is displayed. Therefore, input from the home button BTa is disabled on the home screen SCa. The receipt button BTb is an operator for receiving an instruction to change to the receipt viewing mode. The receipt viewing mode is a mode for viewing electronic receipts. The setting button BTc is an operator for receiving an instruction to change to the setting mode. The setting mode is a mode for setting, for example, a destination folder and an email destination address in the member file 18.

[0056] The user of the information terminal 30 who has checked the home screen SCa, i.e., the electronic receipt member, taps the receipt button BTb when viewing the electronic receipt. Also, when registering a destination folder or an e-mail address in the member file 18, or when changing a registered destination folder or an e-mail address, the electronic receipt member taps the setting button BTc.

[0057] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30, which has set the screen of the touch panel 35 to the home screen SCa, proceeds to ACT2. The processor 31 checks whether the receipt button BTb has been tapped in ACT2. If the receipt button BTb has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT3. The processor 31 checks whether the setting button BTc has been tapped in ACT3. If the setting button BTc has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT2.

[0058] In this manner, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 displaying the home screen SCa waits for the receipt button BTb or the setting button BTc to be tapped in ACT2 and ACT3.

[0059] When the processor 31 detects that the setting button BTc is tapped in the standby state of ACT2 and ACT3, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT4. In ACT4, the processor 31 causes the screen of the touch panel 35 to be the setting screen SCb (see FIG. 13).

[0060] 13 shows an example of an image displayed on the setting screen SCb. As shown in the figure, the setting screen SCb is divided into a title area TIa, a storage destination setting area ARa, a transmission destination setting area ARb, an operation button area ARc, and a mode area MDb. In the title area TIa, a stop button BTe is arranged together with the title "Settings."

[0061] In the storage destination setting area ARa, radio buttons RBa and RBb are arranged for selecting whether the image file will be stored in the internal storage 32 or the external memory 40. For example, an electronic receipt member who wishes to file an image of a receipt that may be a qualified invoice and store it in the information terminal 30 decides whether the storage destination will be the internal storage 32 or the external memory 40. If the storage destination is the internal storage 32, the electronic receipt member selects the radio button RBa. If the storage destination is the external memory 40, the electronic receipt member selects the radio button RBb.

[0062] The destination setting area ARb has an input section INa for an email address. For example, an electronic receipt member who wants to convert an image of a receipt that may be a qualified invoice into a file and store it on a computer device 50 connected to the second communication network NWb inputs the email address of the computer device 50 into the input section INa.

[0063] A registration button BTf is arranged in the operation button area ARc. The registration button BTf is a soft key. When the electronic receipt member wishes to register the contents input in the save destination setting area ARa or the transmission destination setting area ARb in the member file 18, the electronic receipt member taps the registration button BTf. When the electronic receipt member wishes to end the setting mode process without registering, the electronic receipt member taps the cancel button BTe.

[0064] In addition to the above-mentioned home button BTa and receipt button BTb, a back button BTd is arranged in the mode area MDb. The back button BTd is an operator for receiving a command to return to the previous mode.

[0065] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30, which has set the screen of the touch panel 35 to the setting screen SCb, proceeds to ACT5. The processor 31 checks whether the Cancel button BTe has been tapped in ACT5. If the Cancel button BTe has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT6. The processor 31 checks whether the Register button BTf has been tapped in ACT6. If the Register button BTf has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT5.

[0066] In this manner, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 displaying the setting screen SCb waits for the cancel button BTe or the registration button BTf to be tapped in ACT5 and ACT6.

[0067] When the processor 31 detects that the cancel button BTe has been tapped in the standby state of ACT5 and ACT6, the processor 31 returns to ACT1. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the setting screen SCb to the home screen SCa. Note that, even when the processor 31 detects that the back button BTd has been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT1. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the setting screen SCb to the home screen SCa.

[0068] If the processor 31 detects that the registration button BTf has been tapped while in the standby state of ACT5 and ACT6, the process proceeds to ACT7. The processor 31 performs control to send a registration request command to the receipt server 10 in ACT7. This control causes the registration request command to be wirelessly transmitted from the wireless communication unit 33. The registration request command is transmitted to the receipt server 10 via the second communication network NWb. The registration request command includes the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30. Furthermore, if information on a destination folder has been input in the destination setting area ARa, that information is also included. If information on an email destination address has been input in the destination setting area ARb, that information is also included.

[0069] The processor 11 of the receipt server 10 that received the registration request command operates based on the function of the update means 112. That is, the processor 11 updates the information of the destination folder or email address of the member record 181 specified by the electronic receipt ID included in the registration request command. Specifically, if the registration request command includes destination folder information, the information of the destination folder of the member record 181 is updated to the information of the destination folder of the registration request command. If the registration request command includes email destination address information, the information of the destination address of the member record 181 is updated to the information of the destination address of the registration request command. After the processor 11 finishes updating the member record 181, it sends a registration completion command to the information terminal 30 that sent the registration request command.

[0070] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that sent the registration request command in ACT7 proceeds to ACT8. The processor 31 waits for a registration completion command in ACT8. When the processor 31 receives the registration completion command via the wireless communication unit 33, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT9. The processor 31 sets the set flag F to "1" in ACT9. The set flag F is 1-bit data stored in the internal storage 32. The set flag F is information for identifying whether or not at least one of the information of the destination folder or the information of the mail destination address has been set for the member record 181 identified by the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30. In this embodiment, the set flag F indicating that it has been set is set to "1", and the set flag F indicating that it has not been set is set to "0". The information of the set flag F stored in the internal storage 32 is not erased even after the power of the information terminal 30 is turned off.

[0071] After setting the setting completion flag F to "1", the processor 31 returns to ACT 1. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the setting screen SCb to the home screen SCa.

[0072] When the processor 31 detects that the receipt button BTb has been tapped while in the standby state of ACT2 and ACT3, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT10. In ACT10, the processor 31 performs control to send a receipt list request command to the receipt server 10. This control causes the receipt list request command to be wirelessly transmitted from the wireless communication unit 33. The receipt list request command is transmitted to the receipt server 10 via the second communication network NWb. The receipt list request command includes the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30.

[0073] When the receipt server 10 receives the receipt list request command, the processor 11 operates based on its function as the response means 113. That is, the processor 11 extracts the receipt record 171 stored in the receipt file 17 in association with the electronic receipt ID included in the receipt list request command. The processor 11 then generates receipt list image data based on the receipt identification information of the extracted receipt record 171. The processor 11 sends the receipt list image data to the information terminal 30 that made the receipt viewing request.

[0074] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that controlled the sending of the receipt list request command proceeds to ACT11. In ACT11, the processor 31 waits to receive data of a receipt list image. When data of a receipt list image is received via the wireless communication unit 33, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT12. In ACT12, the processor 31 changes the screen of the touch panel 35 to the receipt list screen SCc (see FIG. 14).

[0075] 14 is an example of an image displayed on the receipt list screen SCc. As shown in the figure, the receipt list screen SCc is divided into a title area TIb, a receipt list area ARd, and a mode area MDc. The title area TIb has a filter button BTg located along with the title "Receipt List." The filter button BTg is a soft key. The filter button BTg is an operator for receiving filter conditions for receipts. Filter conditions include the store that issued the receipt, the type of receipt, etc.

[0076] The receipt list area ARd displays a receipt list image. The receipt list image is an image in which receipt specific information (date, store name, payment amount) of electronic receipts issued in each month and year of transaction is arranged in chronological order.

[0077] In the mode area MDc, a home button BTa, a receipt button BTb, and a back button BTd are displayed, similar to the setting screen SCb. However, input from the receipt button BTb is invalid.

[0078] When the electronic receipt member checks the receipt list screen SCc and wants to view details of the receipt identified by the receipt identification information, the electronic receipt member taps the row on which the receipt identification information is displayed. When narrowing down the receipt list, the electronic receipt member taps the narrow down button BTg. When returning the screen of the touch panel 35 to the home screen SCa, the electronic receipt member taps the home button BTa or the back button BTd.

[0079] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the receipt list screen SCc proceeds to ACT13. The processor 31 checks whether a receipt has been specified in ACT13, that is, whether a display line of receipt identifying information has been selected. If a display line of receipt identifying information has not been selected, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT14. The processor 31 checks whether the refine button BTg has been tapped in ACT14. If the refine button BTg has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT15. The processor 31 checks whether the back button BTd has been tapped in ACT15. If the back button BTd has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT16. The processor 31 checks whether the home button BTa has been tapped in ACT16. If the home button BTa has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT13.

[0080] In this way, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 displaying the receipt list screen SCc waits in ACT13 to ACT16 for a display line of receipt specific information to be selected, for the narrow down button BTg to be tapped, or for the back button BTd or home button BTa to be tapped. In this standby state, if it is detected that the back button BTd or home button BTa has been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT1. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the receipt list screen SCc to the home screen SCa.

[0081] On the other hand, if it is detected that a display line of receipt identifying information has been selected during the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT21 in Fig. 7. In ACT21, the processor 31 performs control to send a receipt request command to the receipt server 10. This control causes the receipt request command to be wirelessly transmitted from the wireless communication unit 33. The receipt request command is transmitted to the receipt server 10 via the second communications network NWb. The receipt request command includes the selected receipt identifying information along with the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30.

[0082] When the receipt request command is received, the processor 11 of the receipt server 10 operates based on its function as the response means 113. That is, the processor 11 extracts receipt records 171 having receipt data including receipt identification information from among the receipt records 171 stored in the receipt file 17 in association with the electronic receipt ID included in the receipt request command. The processor 11 then generates receipt image data in, for example, HTML format based on the receipt data of the extracted receipt record 171. The processor 11 sends the receipt image data to the information terminal 30 that made the receipt request.

[0083] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that sent the receipt request command proceeds to ACT 22. In ACT 22, the processor 31 waits to receive receipt image data. When receipt image data is received via the wireless communication unit 33, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 23. In ACT 23, the processor 31 displays the receipt details screen SCd (see FIG. 15) on the touch panel 35.

[0084] 15 is an example of an image displayed on the receipt details screen SCd. As shown in the figure, the receipt details screen SCd is divided into a title area TIc, a receipt specific information area ARe, a receipt image area ARf, and a mode area MDd. The title area TIc has a store button BTh located alongside the title "Receipt Details." The store button BTh is a soft key. The store button BTh is an operator for instructing processes related to storing the receipt image. In other words, the store button BTh functions as an instruction unit.

[0085] The receipt specific information area ARe displays the receipt specific information selected on the receipt list screen SCc. Then, an image REa of the receipt specified by the selected receipt specific information is displayed in the receipt image area ARf by the operation of the browser implemented in the information terminal 30. The mode area MDd displays the home button BTa, receipt button BTb, and back button BTd, just like the receipt list screen SCc.

[0086] In this way, the receipt details screen SCd is a screen that displays a receipt image based on receipt data received from the receipt server 10, together with an instruction section that instructs processing related to storage of the receipt image. Here, the processor 31 realizes the function as the control means 311 by executing the processing of ACT23.

[0087] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the receipt details screen SCd proceeds to ACT24. The processor 31 checks whether the back button BTd has been tapped in ACT24. If the back button BTd has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT25. The processor 31 checks whether the save button BTh has been tapped in ACT25. If the save button BTh has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT26. The processor 31 checks whether the home button BTa has been tapped in ACT26. If the home button BTa has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT24.

[0088] In this way, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 displaying the receipt details screen SCd waits in ACT24 to ACT26 for the back button BTd, the save button BTh, or the home button BTa to be tapped. In this standby state, if the processor 31 detects that the back button BTd has been tapped, it returns to ACT12 in Fig. 6. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the receipt details screen SCd to the receipt list screen SCc. Also, if the processor 31 detects that the home button BTa has been tapped, it returns to ACT1 in Fig. 6. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the receipt list screen SCc to the home screen SCa.

[0089] If the save button BTh is tapped in the standby state of ACT24 to ACT26, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT27. The processor 31 checks the setting flag F stored in the internal storage 32 as ACT27. If the setting flag F is reset to "0", that is, if the electronic receipt member has not set the save destination folder and the email destination address, the processor 31 returns to ACT24. That is, the processor 31 disables the input of the save button BTh and continues the standby state of ACT24 to ACT26.

[0090] On the other hand, if the setting flag F is set to "1", that is, if the electronic receipt member has set a destination folder or an e-mail destination address, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 28. In ACT 28, the processor 31 causes the screen of the touch panel 35 to display the storage method selection screen SCe (see FIG. 16).

[0091] FIG. 16 is an example of an image displayed on the storage method selection screen SCe. As shown in the figure, the storage method selection screen SCe is divided into a title area TId and an operation button area ARg. In the title area TId, a stop button BTi is arranged together with the title "Storage Method". In the operation button area ARg, a save button BTj and a send button BTk are arranged together with a message MSa explaining the storage method of the image file. The save button BTj is an operator for selecting a method of storing in the memory unit of the information terminal 30 as a storage method based on the first process. The send button BTk is an operator for selecting a method of sending by e-mail to the external computer device 50 and storing as a storage method based on the second process.

[0092] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30, which has set the screen of the touch panel 35 to the storage method selection screen SCe, proceeds to ACT29. The processor 31 checks whether the save button BTj has been tapped in ACT29. If the save button BTj has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT30. The processor 31 checks whether the send button BTk has been tapped in ACT30. If the send button BTk has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT31. The processor 31 checks whether the cancel button BTi has been tapped in ACT31. If the cancel button BTi has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT29.

[0093] In this way, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30, with the screen of the touch panel 35 set to the storage method selection screen SCe, waits in ACT29 to ACT31 for the Save button BTj, the Send button BTk, or the Cancel button BTi to be tapped. In this standby state, when it detects that the Cancel button BTi has been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT23. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the storage method selection screen SCe to the receipt details screen SCd.

[0094] If the save button BTj is tapped in the standby state of ACT29 to ACT31, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT41 in FIG. 8. The processor 31 performs control to send a save destination request command to the receipt server 10 in ACT41. This control causes the save destination request command to be wirelessly transmitted from the wireless communication unit 33. The save destination request command is transmitted to the receipt server 10 via the second communication network NWb. The save destination request command includes the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30.

[0095] The processor 11 of the receipt server 10 that received the save destination request command searches the member file 18 to check whether or not destination folder information exists in the member record 181 that includes the electronic receipt ID included in the save destination request command. If destination folder information exists, the processor 11 returns a response command including the destination folder information to the information terminal 30 that sent the request command. On the other hand, if destination folder information does not exist, the processor 11 returns a response command that does not include destination folder information to the information terminal 30 that sent the request command.

[0096] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that sent the destination request command proceeds to ACT42. The processor 31 checks whether or not destination folder information has been acquired in ACT42. If the processor 31 receives a response command from the receipt server 10 that includes destination folder information, it determines that destination folder information has been acquired. If the processor 31 receives a response command from the receipt server 10 that does not include destination folder information, it determines that destination folder information has not been acquired. If destination folder information has not been acquired, the processor 31 returns to ACT23 in FIG. 7. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the storage method selection screen SCe to the receipt details screen SCd.

[0097] On the other hand, if the information on the save destination folder has been acquired, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 43. The processor 31 displays the screen of the touch panel 35 as the preview screen SCf (see FIG. 17).

[0098] 17 is an example of an image displayed on the preview screen SCf. As shown in the figure, the preview screen SCf is divided into a title area TIe, a preview area ARh, and an operation button area ARi. The title area TIe has a stop button BTm arranged along with the title "Preview." The preview area ARh displays the receipt image REa that was displayed on the previous receipt details screen SCd along with a message MSb inquiring whether or not to save the previewed receipt as an image file. The operation button area ARg has a save button BTn arranged as a soft key. The save button BTn is an operator for receiving an instruction to save the receipt displayed in the preview area ARh as an image file.

[0099] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the preview screen SCf proceeds to ACT44. The processor 31 checks whether or not the save button BTn has been tapped in ACT44. If the save button BTn has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT45. The processor 31 checks whether or not the cancel button BTm has been tapped in ACT45. If the cancel button BTm has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT44.

[0100] In this way, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 displaying the preview screen SCf waits for the Save button BTn or the Cancel button BTm to be tapped in ACT 44 and ACT 45. If the processor 31 detects that the Cancel button BTm has been tapped in this standby state, the processor 31 returns to ACT 23 in Fig. 7. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the preview screen SCf to the receipt details screen SCd.

[0101] If the processor 31 detects that the save button BTn has been tapped in the standby state of ACT44 and ACT45, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT46. The processor 31 captures the image of the receipt displayed in the preview area ARh in ACT46 using the screenshot function or scroll capture function. Next, the processor 31 creates an image file by converting the captured image into an image file in JPEG format, for example, in ACT47. The processor 31 then saves the image file in a folder in the internal storage 32 or the external memory 40 specified by the information on the destination folder in ACT48.

[0102] Here, the processor 31 realizes the function of the creation means 312 by executing the processes of ACT46 and ACT47. Also, the processor 31 realizes the function of the execution means 313 by executing the process of ACT48.

[0103] After completing the processes in ACT46 to ACT48, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 49. In ACT 49, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 35 to display a pop-up image PUa (see FIG. 18) indicating completion of saving, superimposed on the preview screen SCf.

[0104] Fig. 18 is an example of a pop-up image PUa. As shown in the figure, the pop-up image PUa has a close button BTo arranged thereon along with a message MSc indicating that the image file has been saved in the destination folder. The close button BTo is a soft key. The close button BTo is an operator for receiving an instruction to close the pop-up image PUa.

[0105] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the pop-up image PUa on the touch panel 35 proceeds to ACT50. In ACT50, the processor 31 waits for the close button BTo to be tapped. When it detects that the close button BTo has been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT23 in Fig. 7. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the preview screen SCf to the receipt details screen SCd.

[0106] 7, if the send button BTk is tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT61 in FIG. 9. The processor 31 performs control to send a destination request command to the receipt server 10 in ACT61. This control causes the wireless communication unit 33 to wirelessly transmit the destination request command. The destination request command is transmitted to the receipt server 10 via the second communication network NWb. The destination request command includes the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30.

[0107] The processor 11 of the receipt server 10 that received the destination request command searches the member file 18 to check whether email destination address information exists in the member record 181 that includes the electronic receipt ID included in the destination request command. If email destination address information exists, the processor 11 returns a response command including that email destination address information to the information terminal 30 that sent the request command. On the other hand, if email destination address information does not exist, the processor 11 returns a response command that does not include email destination address information to the information terminal 30 that sent the request command.

[0108] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that sent the destination request command proceeds to ACT62. The processor 31 checks whether or not the mail destination address information has been acquired in ACT62. If the processor 31 receives a response command from the receipt server 10 that includes the mail destination address information, it determines that the mail destination address information has been acquired. If the processor 31 receives a response command from the receipt server 10 that does not include the mail destination address information, it determines that the mail destination address information has not been acquired. If the processor 31 does not receive the mail destination address information, it determines that the mail destination address information has not been acquired. If the processor 31 does not receive the mail destination address information, it returns to ACT23 in FIG. 7. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the storage method selection screen SCe to the receipt details screen SCd.

[0109] On the other hand, if the information on the mail destination address has been acquired, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 63. The processor 31 displays the screen of the touch panel 35 as a preview screen SCg (see FIG. 19).

[0110] FIG. 19 is an example of an image displayed on the preview screen SCg. As shown in the figure, the preview screen SCg is divided into a title area TIf, a preview area ARj, and an operation button area ARk. The title area TIf has the title "Preview" and a Cancel button BTp arranged therein. The preview area ARj displays the receipt image REa displayed on the previous receipt details screen SCd together with a message MSd inquiring whether or not to attach an image file of the previewed receipt to an e-mail and send it. The operation button area ARk has a Send button BTq arranged therein. The Send button BTq is a soft key. The Send button BTq is an operator for receiving an instruction to attach an image file of the receipt displayed in the preview area ARj to an e-mail and send it.

[0111] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the preview screen SCg proceeds to ACT64. The processor 31 checks whether or not the send button BTq has been tapped in ACT64. If the send button BTq has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT65. The processor 31 checks whether or not the cancel button BTp has been tapped in ACT65. If the cancel button BTp has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT64.

[0112] In this way, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 displaying the preview screen SCg waits for the send button BTq or the cancel button BTp to be tapped in ACT64 and ACT65. If the processor 31 detects that the cancel button BTp has been tapped in this standby state, the processor 31 returns to ACT23 in Fig. 7. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the preview screen SCg to the receipt details screen SCd.

[0113] If the processor 31 detects that the send button BTq has been tapped in the standby state of ACT64 and ACT65, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT66. The processor 31 captures the image of the receipt displayed in the preview area ARh of the preview screen SCf in ACT66 using the screenshot function or scroll capture function. Next, the processor 31 creates an image file in which the information of the receipt image is filed by converting the captured image into an image file in, for example, JPEG format in ACT67. Thereafter, the processor 31 performs control to send an email transmission request command to the receipt server 10 in ACT68. With this control, the email transmission request command is wirelessly transmitted from the wireless communication unit 33. The email transmission request command is transmitted to the receipt server 10 via the second communication network NWb. The email transmission request command includes the image file created in the process of ACT67 along with the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30.

[0114] Here, the processor 31 realizes the function of creating means 312 by executing the processes of ACT66 and ACT67. Also, the processor 31 realizes the function of executing means 313 by executing the process of ACT68.

[0115] 11 is a flow chart showing the main steps of the information processing executed by the processor 11 of the receipt server 10 when it receives an email transmission request command. The processor 11 waits for an email transmission request command in ACT101. When the processor 11 receives the email transmission request command via the second communication interface 15, it proceeds to ACT102. The processor 11 detects the electronic receipt ID from the email transmission request command in ACT102.

[0116] Next, the processor 11 searches the member file 18 using the electronic receipt ID in ACT 103. When the processor 11 finds a member record 181 that includes the electronic receipt ID, the processor 11 obtains an email address from the member information of the member record 181 in ACT 104. The processor 11 also obtains an email destination address included in the member record 181 in ACT 105.

[0117] The processor 11 also acquires an image file in which the receipt image data is compressed in, for example, JPEG format from the email transmission request command in ACT 105. The processor 11 then converts the image file into an image file in PDF format in ACT 106.

[0118] Upon completing the above processes in ACT102 to ACT106, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT107. The processor 11 starts the mailer 19 in ACT107. The processor 11 then creates an e-mail in accordance with the mailer 19. This e-mail has the e-mail address of the member information acquired in ACT103 as the sender address, and the e-mail destination address acquired in ACT104 as the destination address. The processor 11 attaches the image file converted to PDF format in ACT106 to this e-mail.

[0119] When the email is created, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT108. The processor 11 controls to send the email as ACT108. By this control, the email is sent via the second communication network NWb. The email is received by the computer device 50 in which the mail destination address is set.

[0120] In ACT109, the processor 11 waits for the completion of the transmission of the e-mail. When the transmission of the e-mail is completed, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT110. In ACT110, the processor 11 notifies the information terminal 30 that is the sender of the e-mail transmission request command of the completion of the transmission. With the above, the processor 11 ends the information processing when a e-mail transmission request command is received. Here, the processor 11 realizes the function of the e-mail transmission means 114 by executing the processes of ACT102 to ACT108.

[0121] Returning to the explanation of Figure 9. The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that sent the transmission request command proceeds to ACT 69. In ACT 69, the processor 31 waits for a response command for a transmission completion notification. When the response command for a transmission completion notification is received from the receipt server 10, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 70. In ACT 70, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 35 to display a pop-up image PUb (see FIG. 20) indicating transmission completion, superimposed on the preview screen SCf.

[0122] 20 is an example of a popup image PUb. As shown in the figure, the popup image PUb includes a message MSe indicating that an email with an image file of a receipt image attached has been sent to the email destination address, and a close button BTr. The close button BTr is a soft key. The close button BTr is an operator for receiving an instruction to close the popup image PUb.

[0123] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the pop-up image PUb on the touch panel 35 proceeds to ACT71. In ACT71, the processor 31 waits for the close button BTr to be tapped. When it detects that the close button BTr has been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT23 in Fig. 7. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the preview screen SCf to the receipt details screen SCd.

[0124] In the standby state of ACT13 to ACT16 in Fig. 6, when it is detected that the narrowing down button BTg is input, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT81 in Fig. 10. In ACT81, the processor 31 sets the screen of the touch panel 35 to the condition input screen SCh (see Fig. 21).

[0125] 21 is an example of an image displayed on the condition input screen SCh. As shown in the figure, the condition input screen SCh is divided into a title area TIg, a condition input area ARm, and an operation button area ARn. In the title area TIg, a stop button BTs is arranged together with the title "Narrowing Condition Input." In the condition input area ARm, a pull-down menu box PDa for selecting a first narrowing condition and a pull-down menu box PDb for selecting a second narrowing condition are arranged. In the operation button area ARn, an execute button BTt for receiving an instruction to execute narrowing is arranged.

[0126] In this embodiment, the first narrowing condition is the store name. The second narrowing condition is the type of receipt. When the pull-down menu box PDb for the second narrowing condition is selected, a pull-down list LSa from which the type of receipt can be selected is displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 22. The pull-down list LSa is a list showing the types of receipt, and radio buttons RBc, RBd, RBe, and RBf are arranged for each type. For example, an electronic receipt member who wants to check the purchase receipt issued in the transaction that is the basis for the transaction corrected in the register minus mode can select the radio button RBe corresponding to "original receipt before correction" from the pull-down list LSa and tap the execute button BTt.

[0127] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the condition input screen SCh on the touch panel 35 proceeds to ACT82. The processor 31 checks whether or not the execute button BTt has been tapped in ACT82. If the execute button BTt has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT83. The processor 31 checks whether or not the cancel button BTs has been tapped in ACT83. If the cancel button BTs has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT82.

[0128] In this way, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 displaying the condition input screen SCh waits for the execute button BTt or the cancel button BTs to be tapped in ACT 82 and ACT 83. When it detects that the cancel button BTs has been tapped in this standby state, the processor 31 returns to ACT 12 in Fig. 6. The processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the condition input screen SCh to the receipt list screen SCc.

[0129] If the processor 31 detects that the execute button BTt has been tapped while in the standby state of ACT82 and ACT83, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT84. The processor 31 performs control to send a narrowing down request command to the receipt server 10 as ACT84. This control causes the wireless communication unit 33 to wirelessly send the narrowing down request command. The narrowing down request command is sent to the receipt server 10 via the second communication network NWb. The narrowing down request command includes the electronic receipt ID set in the information terminal 30. Furthermore, if a first narrowing down condition has been selected in the condition input area ARm, information on the first narrowing down condition is also included. If a second narrowing down condition has been selected in the condition input area ARm, information on the second narrowing down condition is also included.

[0130] The processor 11 of the receipt server 10 that receives the narrowing down request command operates based on its function as the response means 113. That is, the processor 11 extracts receipt records 171 that contain receipt data that satisfies the first narrowing down condition or the second narrowing down condition from among the receipt records 171 stored in the receipt file 17 in association with the electronic receipt ID included in the narrowing down request command. The processor 11 then generates data of a narrowed down receipt list image based on the receipt identification information of the extracted receipt records 171. The processor 11 sends the data of the narrowed down receipt list image to the information terminal 30 that issued the receipt viewing request.

[0131] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that controlled the sending of the narrowing down request command proceeds to ACT 85. In ACT 85, the processor 31 waits to receive data of a narrowed down receipt list image. When data of a narrowed down receipt list image is received via the wireless communication unit 33, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 86. In ACT 86, the processor 31 changes the screen of the touch panel 35 to the receipt list screen SCi (see FIG. 23).

[0132] 23 is an example of an image displayed on the narrowed down receipt list screen SCi. The narrowed down receipt list screen SCi is displayed when the original receipt is selected as the second narrowing down condition. As shown in the figure, the narrowed down receipt list screen SCi is divided into a title area TIh, a receipt list area ARo, and a mode area MDf. The title area TIh displays the title "Receipt List" along with text indicating the narrowing down conditions.

[0133] The receipt list area ARo displays a filtered receipt list image, which is an image in which receipt-specific information (date, store name, payment amount) of electronic receipts filtered by the filtering conditions is arranged in chronological order.

[0134] The mode area MDc displays the home button BTa, receipt button BTb, and back button BTd, just like the receipt list screen SCc. Input of the receipt button BTb is invalid, just like the receipt list screen SCc.

[0135] The processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the narrowed-down receipt list screen SCi proceeds to ACT87. The processor 31 checks whether a display line of receipt identifying information has been selected in ACT87. If a display line of receipt identifying information has not been selected, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT88. The processor 31 checks whether the back button BTd has been tapped in ACT88. If the back button BTd has not been tapped, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT89. The processor 31 checks whether the home button BTa has been tapped in ACT89. If the home button BTa has not been tapped, the processor 31 returns to ACT87.

[0136] In this way, the processor 31 of the information terminal 30 that has displayed the narrowed receipt list screen SCi waits in ACT87 to ACT89 for a display line of receipt specific information to be selected, for the back button BTd to be tapped, or for the home button BTa to be tapped. In this standby state, if the processor 31 detects that the back button BTd has been tapped, it returns to ACT12 in Fig. 6. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the narrowed receipt list screen SCi to the receipt list screen SCc. Also, if the processor 31 detects that the home button BTa has been tapped, it returns to ACT1 in Fig. 6. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 35 from the narrowed receipt list screen SCi to the home screen SCa.

[0137] On the other hand, if it is detected that a display line of receipt specific information has been selected during the standby state of ACT87 to ACT89, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT21 in Fig. 7. In ACT21, the processor 31 controls the receipt request command to be sent to the receipt server 10. Thereafter, the processor 31 executes the processes from ACT21 onwards in the same manner as described above.

[0138] [Explanation of how the electronic receipt system works] Fig. 24 is a process sequence diagram between the information terminal 30 and receipt server 10 when an instruction is given to save an image file in a memory unit of the information terminal 30 as a process related to receipt image storage. Fig. 25 is a process sequence diagram between the information terminal 30 and receipt server 10 when an instruction is given to send an e-mail with an image file attached to a specific e-mail address as a process related to receipt image storage. Note that the same reference numerals are used for process steps that are the same as those used in the explanation of the flow charts shown in Figs. 6 to 11.

[0139] First, the operation when an instruction is given to store an image file in a storage unit included in the information terminal 30 as a process related to storing a receipt image will be described with reference to FIG.

[0140] As shown in Fig. 24, when an electronic receipt member taps the receipt button BTb on the home screen SCa displayed on the touch panel 35 of the information terminal 30 (ACT1, ACT2), the receipt server 10 causes the screen on the touch panel 35 to transition from the home screen SCa to the receipt list screen SCc (ACT12). Here, when the electronic receipt member selects receipt identification information for a receipt they wish to save as an image file (ACT13), the receipt server 10 generates image data for the receipt identified by the receipt identification information in, for example, HTML format, and sends it to the information terminal 30. Then, a receipt details screen SCd is displayed on the touch panel 35 of the information terminal 30 (ACT23).

[0141] On the receipt details screen SCd, a Save button BTh is displayed together with an image of the receipt to be saved as an image file, so the electronic receipt member taps the Save button BTh (ACT24). Then, a storage method selection screen SCe is displayed on the touch panel 35 (ACT28), so the electronic receipt member taps the Save button BTj (ACT29). Then, a preview screen SCf is displayed on the touch panel 35 (ACT43), so the electronic receipt member taps the Save button BTn (ACT44).

[0142] When the electronic receipt member performs the above operation, an image of the receipt displayed in the preview area ARh is captured on the information terminal 30 (ACT46). The captured image is converted into an image file in, for example, JPEG format (ACT47). The image file is then saved in a storage unit specified by the information of the destination folder managed by the receipt server 10 (ACT48).

[0143] When the image file is saved, a pop-up image PUa indicating completion of saving is displayed on the touch panel 35 of the information terminal 30 (ACT49). Therefore, the electronic receipt member can know that the image file of the receipt image has been saved in the desired destination folder.

[0144] Next, the action when instructing a process for storing a receipt image to send an e-mail with an image file attached to a specific e-mail address will be described with reference to Fig. 25. Note that from when the electronic receipt member taps the receipt button BTb on the home screen SCa until he or she taps the save button BTh on the receipt details screen SCd (ACT1 to ACT24), the process is the same as when instructing a process for saving an image file in the storage unit of the information terminal 30, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0145] 25, when the storage method selection screen SCe is displayed on the touch panel 35 of the information terminal 30 by tapping the storage button BTh, the electronic receipt member taps the send button BTk (ACT30). Then, the preview screen SCg is displayed on the touch panel 35 (ACT63), so the electronic receipt member taps the send button BTq (ACT64).

[0146] When the electronic receipt member performs the above operation, an image of the receipt displayed in the preview area ARj is captured on the information terminal 30 (ACT66). The captured image is converted into an image file, for example, in JPEG format (ACT67). The image file is then included in an email transmission request command and sent to the receipt server 10 (ACT68).

[0147] When the receipt server 10 receives the email sending request command, the preset email destination address is obtained from the member file 18 (ACT104). The image file is also converted to a PDF format image file (ACT104). An email is then created with this PDF format image file attached, and sent to the email destination address (ACT107, ACT108).

[0148] When the email transmission is complete, the receipt server 10 notifies the information terminal 30 that the transmission is complete (ACT110). Upon receiving this notification, a pop-up image PUb indicating that the transmission is complete is displayed on the touch panel 35 of the information terminal 30 (ACT70). Therefore, the electronic receipt member can know that the email with the image file of the receipt image attached has been sent to the desired destination address.

[0149] 26 shows an example of a receipt RCd that can be used as a qualified invoice. According to this embodiment, an image of such a receipt RCd can be compressed into an image file in, for example, JPEG format and stored in a specified storage unit of the information terminal 30. Alternatively, an email with an image file of the receipt RCd converted into, for example, PDF format attached can be sent to a specified computer device 50 for storage.

[0150] Moreover, in this embodiment, the image file of the receipt image can be saved or emailed by operating an instruction section displayed together with the receipt image on one screen of the receipt details screen SCd. This has the advantage that there is no need to perform operations on the information terminal 30 to take a screenshot, and anyone can easily store the image file.

[0151] In this embodiment, "original receipt before correction" has been added as a selection option for the narrowing down conditions that can be selected on the condition input screen SCh. By using this selection option "original receipt before correction" as a narrowing down condition, the electronic receipt member can obtain an image of the purchase receipt issued in the transaction that is the basis for the transaction that was corrected in the REGI-MINUS mode.

[0152] For example, for a transaction for which receipt RCd in Fig. 26 was issued, the clerk forgets to give a 100 yen discount, so he issues a cashier minus to the POS terminal 20 and reads the barcode on the original receipt RCd. Then, the transaction data identified by the barcode is read from the journal file, so the clerk applies the 100 yen discount. Then, as shown in Fig. 27, a new receipt RCe is issued with the notation "corrected receipt."

[0153] The receipt identifying information of the new receipt RCe is displayed on the receipt list screen SCc. Therefore, electronic receipt members can store the image file that is a file of the image of the new receipt RCe. However, the receipt identifying information of the original receipt RCd is not displayed on the receipt list screen SCc. Therefore, electronic receipt members who want to store the image file that is a file of the image of the original receipt RCd select "Original receipt before correction" as an option for the filtering conditions. Then, the receipt identifying information of the original receipt RCd is displayed on the filtered receipt list screen SCi. Therefore, electronic receipt members can store the image file that is a file of the image of the original receipt RCd with a simple operation.

[0154] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, a storage method based on a first process, i.e., a method of storing in a memory unit of the information terminal 30, and a storage method based on a second process, i.e., a method of sending by email to an external computer device 50 and storing it, can be selected. In other embodiments, only one of the storage methods may be executable. That is, when the storage button BTh located on the receipt details screen SCd is tapped, if the storage method based on the first process is executable, the screen transitions to the preview screen SCf shown in FIG. 17, and if the storage method based on the second process is executable, the screen transitions to the preview screen SCg shown in FIG. 19. Such a configuration may be used.

[0155] In the above embodiment, the case where destination folder information and email destination address information are stored for each electronic receipt member in the member file 18 is exemplified. In another embodiment, destination folder information and email destination address information for each electronic receipt member may be stored in the information terminal 30 owned by each electronic receipt member. Alternatively, destination address information may be stored in the member file 18, while destination folder information may be stored in the information terminal 30. Alternatively, it may be the other way around.

[0156] In the above embodiment, an example was given of the receipt server 10 implementing a mailer and sending an e-mail with an image file attached to a mail destination address. The device that sends the e-mail is not limited to the receipt server 10. For example, if a mail server is built into the receipt center 1, the mail server may send the e-mail instead of the receipt server 10. Alternatively, the information terminal 30 may use its own e-mail sending function to send an e-mail with an image file attached.

[0157] In the above embodiment, an example was given of a case where only one email destination address is set for one electronic receipt member, but it is also possible to set two or more email destination addresses and send emails with an image file of the same receipt attached to two or more computer devices 50.

[0158] In the above embodiment, the receipt image data is compressed in JPEG format to create an image file on the information terminal 30, but the image file format is not limited to JPEG. For example, the receipt image file may be created in a file format such as GIF, PING, or TIFF.

[0159] 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]

[0160] 1... receipt center, 2... store, 10... receipt server, 17... receipt file, 18... membership file, 19... mailer, 20... POS terminal, 30... information terminal, 32... internal storage, 40... external memory, 43... electronic receipt application, 50... computer device, 100... electronic receipt system, 111... storage means, 112... update means, 113... response means, 114... email sending means, 311... control means, 312... creation means, 313... execution means.

Claims

1. A communication means for communicating with a receipt server that stores receipt data obtained by digitizing a receipt showing purchase data of a purchaser in association with purchaser identification information that identifies the purchaser; a control means for displaying, on one screen of a display device, a receipt image based on the receipt data received from the receipt server via the communication means, together with an instruction section for instructing a process related to storage of the receipt image; a generating means for generating an image file by converting information about the receipt image displayed on the display device into a file; an execution unit that executes a process related to the storage instructed by the instruction unit on the image file created by the creation unit; An information terminal comprising:

2. The information terminal according to claim 1 , wherein the storage process is a process for saving the image file in a storage unit included in the information terminal.

3. 2. The information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the process relating to storage is a process for sending an e-mail with the image file attached to a specified e-mail address as a destination.

4. the process relating to storage includes a first process for storing the image file in a storage unit included in the information terminal, and a second process for sending an e-mail with the image file attached to a predetermined e-mail address as a destination, The information terminal according to claim 1 , wherein the instruction unit selectively instructs the first process or the second process.

5. A computer of an information terminal including a display device and a communication means for communicating with a receipt server that stores receipt data obtained by digitizing a receipt showing purchase data of a purchaser in association with purchaser identification information that identifies the purchaser, a control means for displaying, on one screen of the display device, a receipt image based on the receipt data received from the receipt server via the communication means, together with an instruction section for instructing processing related to storage of the receipt image; A creating means for creating an image file by converting the information of the receipt image displayed on the display device into a file; and an execution unit that executes a process related to the storage instructed by the instruction unit on the image file created by the creation unit; A program to function as a

6. a receipt server that stores receipt data obtained by digitizing a receipt showing purchase data of a purchaser in association with purchaser identification information that identifies the purchaser; an information terminal that includes a communication means for communicating with the receipt server and displays, on one screen of a display device, a receipt image based on the receipt data received from the receipt server together with an instruction section that instructs processing related to storage of the receipt image; a generating means for generating an image file by converting information about the receipt image displayed on the display device into a file; a mail sending means for sending an e-mail to which the image file created by the creating means is attached; An electronic receipt system comprising:

Images