Electronic receipt system, server apparatus, and program thereof

Abstract

To make it possible to digitize a receipt later even if an electronic receipt ID cannot be obtained.SOLUTION: An electronic receipt system stores transaction files. A transaction file of a transaction for which receipt data has not been generated is extracted from the stored transaction files. When information that a target person identified by target person identification information described in the extracted transaction file is a user of an electronic receipt service can be acquired, receipt data is generated on the basis of data related to the details of the transaction described in the transaction file and output to a receipt server.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electronic receipt system, a server device included in the system, and a program for causing a computer to function as the server device. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, so-called electronic receipt services, which allow consumers to receive electronic receipts on information terminals such as smartphones, have become widespread. Consumers can use the electronic receipt service by registering as members with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. In addition, many stores offer membership services such as point services to attract customers. Consumers can receive membership services of a store by registering as a member with the store.

[0003] Incidentally, a consumer who has registered as a member with an operating company of an electronic receipt service is assigned identification information for identifying the consumer, a so-called electronic receipt ID. The consumer can receive the electronic receipt service by presenting the electronic receipt ID when making a payment at a store that uses the electronic receipt service. Similarly, a consumer who has registered as a member with a store that offers membership services is assigned identification information for identifying the consumer, a so-called store membership ID. The consumer can receive the membership services by presenting the store membership ID when making a payment at the store where he / she has registered as a member.

[0004] However, consumers cannot receive both the electronic receipt service and the membership service unless they present their electronic receipt ID and store member ID when making a payment at a store. To solve this problem, the electronic receipt ID and store member ID of the same consumer are linked. Technology has already been put into practical use that allows consumers to receive both the electronic receipt service and the membership service by simply presenting their store member ID when making a payment at a store.

[0005] Generally, information on consumers who have registered as members at a store is managed by the store's server device. For this reason, if the server device is offline when a payment is made using the store's payment device, it will be impossible to determine whether an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID of the consumer who made the payment. If the electronic receipt ID cannot be recognized, the payment device will not be able to digitize the receipt and will have to issue a paper receipt. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-031392 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that allows receipts to be digitized later even if the consumer identification information required to receive an electronic receipt service cannot be obtained. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one embodiment, the electronic receipt system includes a first generating means, a storing means, an extracting means, a second generating means, and an outputting means. When the first generating means is able to acquire, based on information held by the first server, that the subject of a transaction settled by the settlement device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing transaction details in electronic data at the time of settlement of the transaction, the first generating means generates receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of the transaction. The storing means stores a transaction file that describes subject identification information that identifies the subject of the transaction settled by the settlement device and data related to the transaction details. The extracting means extracts a transaction file of a transaction for which receipt data has not been generated from among the transaction files stored by the storing means. When the second generating means is able to acquire, based on information held by a second server different from the first server, that the subject identified by the subject identification information described in the transaction file extracted by the extracting means is a user of the electronic receipt service, the second generating means generates receipt data based on the data related to the transaction details described in the transaction file. The output means outputs the receipt data generated by the first generation means or the second generation means to a receipt server that manages the receipt data. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of an electronic receipt system according to an embodiment. [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 data structure of the linkage table. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of the store server. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing main data items described in a transaction file. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the conversion server. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing the main information processing steps executed by the processor of the POS terminal. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the main information processing steps executed by the processor of the POS terminal. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of main information processing executed by the processor of the store server. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the main information processing steps executed by the processor of the conversion server. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram when the POS terminal acquires an electronic receipt ID from the member server. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram when the conversion server acquires an electronic receipt ID from the receipt server. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows an example of a receipt image when the POS terminal acquires an electronic receipt ID from the member server. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 shows an example of a receipt image when the conversion server acquires an electronic receipt ID from the receipt server. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an electronic receipt system that can digitize a receipt later even if the consumer's identification information required to receive an electronic receipt service cannot be obtained will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] First, this embodiment illustrates an electronic receipt system that links the electronic receipt ID and store member ID of the same consumer, so that the consumer can receive both the electronic receipt service and the member service by simply presenting the store member ID of the store when making a payment at the store. The member service is, for example, a point service that awards points in proportion to the transaction amount. The member service is not limited to a point service.

[0012] An electronic receipt ID is identification information assigned to a consumer by an operating company of an electronic receipt service when the consumer registers as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. A consumer who wants to use the electronic receipt service installs dedicated application software corresponding to the electronic receipt service, a so-called electronic receipt app, on an information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet. The consumer then registers as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service using the electronic receipt app. By registering as a member, the operating company assigns a unique identification information, a so-called electronic receipt ID, to the consumer. 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 an information terminal when the electronic receipt app is launched on the information terminal, for example. Hereinafter, a consumer who has registered as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service is referred to as an electronic receipt member.

[0013] The store member ID is identification information that is assigned to a consumer by a store when the consumer registers as a member at the store to receive member services. A consumer who wants to receive member services installs dedicated application software corresponding to the member services, a so-called store member app, on an information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet. The consumer then registers as a member at the store using the store member app. By registering as a member, the store assigns the consumer a unique identification information, a so-called store member ID. The store member 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 an information terminal when the store member app is started on the information terminal. Alternatively, the store member ID may be recorded on a member card issued to the consumer by the store upon member registration. The member card may be a magnetic card on which the store member ID is magnetically recorded, or may be a contact or contactless IC card on which the store member ID is stored in the memory of an IC chip. The member card may also be a card-shaped medium made of paper, plastic, or the like on which the store member ID is printed in the form of a machine-readable code. In the following, a consumer who registers as a member at a store is referred to as a store member.

[0014] The store may be an independent store, or a chain store consisting of multiple affiliated stores. The type of store is not particularly limited. It may be a store that sells products, such as a supermarket, convenience store, or retail specialty store, or a store that provides services, such as a barber shop, rental shop, or bowling alley. In short, it is sufficient for the store to issue a receipt showing details of a transaction related to the sale of a product or the provision of a service between the store and the consumer who is the subject of the transaction. The receipt records details such as the name and price of the item transacted, the total amount of the transaction, payment information for that total amount, and the date and time of the transaction.

[0015] In this embodiment, not only the act of purchasing a product at a store that sells the product and paying for it, but also the act of receiving a service at a store that provides the service and paying for it is called a transaction. The subject of the transaction is called a consumer. The consumer can also be called the subject of the transaction or the transaction recipient. In this embodiment, a chain store is used as an example of a store that provides an electronic receipt service and a membership service.

[0016] [Explanation of the electronic receipt system] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of an electronic receipt system 100 according to the present embodiment. The electronic receipt system 100 includes a receipt management system 10, a headquarters system 20, a plurality of store systems 30, and a conversion server 40. The receipt management system 10, the headquarters system 20, and the conversion server 40 are connected by a first communication network NWa, the headquarters system 20 and each store system 30 are connected by a second communication network NWb, and the headquarters system 20 and the conversion server 40 are connected by a third communication network NWc, thereby forming the electronic receipt system 100. The first communication network NMa, the second communication network NWb, and the third communication network NWc are, for example, the Internet, an intranet, a VPN (virtual private network), etc. Note that, although the first communication network NMa, the second communication network NWb, and the third communication network NWc are shown as independent networks in FIG. 1, two or more communication networks can be integrated into one.

[0017] The receipt management system 10 is a system managed by an operating company of the electronic receipt service. The receipt management system 10 includes a receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 is a computer device that provides a service that enables an image of a receipt issued to an electronic receipt member to be viewed on an information terminal 200 owned by the electronic receipt member. The receipt server 11 may provide the service in an on-premise environment, or may provide the service in a cloud computing environment.

[0018] The information terminal 200 is a portable communication terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. At least an electronic receipt application is installed in the information terminal 200. In addition to the electronic receipt application, a shop membership application may be installed in the information terminal 200.

[0019] The receipt server 11 accumulates receipt data that is the electronic version of receipts issued to each electronic receipt member by stores that provide the electronic receipt service. When the receipt server 11 receives an inquiry about an electronic receipt from the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd, it extracts the receipt data of that electronic receipt member. The receipt server 11 transmits receipt image data based on the extracted receipt data to the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd. Thus, the inquired receipt is displayed as an image on the display device of the information terminal 200.

[0020] In this way, the fourth communication network NWd is a wide area network that allows data transfer between the receipt server 11 and the information terminal 200 owned by each electronic receipt member. As the fourth communication network NWd, for example, the Internet, a mobile communication network, a public communication network, etc. can be used alone or in appropriate combination.

[0021] The headquarters system 20 is a system constructed in the headquarters of a chain store. The headquarters system 20 includes a headquarters server 21, a member server 22, a first communication server 23, a second communication server 24, and a third communication server 25. The headquarters server 21, the member server 22, the first communication server 23, the second communication server 24, and the third communication server 25 are each connected to a headquarters intranet 26. The headquarters intranet 26 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The headquarters server 21, the member server 22, the first communication server 23, the second communication server 24, and the third communication server 25 each perform data communication with each other via the headquarters intranet 26.

[0022] The headquarters server 21 is a computer device that provides a service of collecting information on transactions processed by the settlement devices of each affiliated store from each store system 30 and processing the information to appropriately generate and output data related to the headquarters' operations. Data related to the headquarters' operations includes, for example, sales data and loss data by affiliated store.

[0023] The member server 22 is a computer device that provides a service for managing information on consumers who have become store members. Consumer information is, for example, the value of service points owned by the consumer. Specifically, the member server 22 accumulates points for each store member that are given to the store member according to the amount of the transaction when the store member makes a transaction at each affiliated store. When a store member requests to exchange points, the member server 22 subtracts the requested points from the accumulated points of the store member and provides the store member with a special benefit equivalent to the points subtracted. The special benefit may be, for example, a discount on the transaction amount or the issuance of a gift certificate.

[0024] The first communication server 23 is a computer device that provides a communication service to send or receive data with the receipt server 11 of the receipt management system 10 via the first communication network NWa. The second communication server 24 is a computer device that provides a communication service to send or receive data with the conversion server 40 via the third communication network NWc. The third communication server 25 is a computer device that provides a communication service to send or receive data with the communication server 33 of each store system 30 via the second communication network NWb.

[0025] The store system 30 is a system established in a member store of a chain store. The store system 30 is established for each member store. The store system 30 includes a store server 31, multiple POS (Point Of Sales) terminals 32, and a communication server 33. The store server 31, the multiple POS terminals 32, and the communication server 33 are connected to an in-store network 34 provided in the store. The in-store network 34 is typically a LAN. The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The store server 31, the multiple POS terminals 32, and the communication server 33 each perform data communication with each other via the in-store network 34.

[0026] The store server 31 is a computer device that provides a service of collecting information on transactions settled at each POS terminal 32 functioning as a settlement device from each POS terminal 32, processing the information, and appropriately generating and outputting data on store operation. Data on store operation includes, for example, sales data by product, inventory data, etc.

[0027] The POS terminal 32 is a payment device that executes a process of registering data of items purchased by a consumer and a process of settling a transaction with the consumer. The POS terminal 32 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 the consumer is responsible for operations for registration and for settlement. Alternatively, the POS terminal 32 may be a shared POS terminal in which the store clerk is responsible for operations for registration and the consumer is responsible for operations for settlement. The face-to-face POS terminal, the self-service POS terminal, and the shared POS terminal may all be well-known and may be applied as they are. The POS terminal 32 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. 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.

[0028] The communication server 33 is a computer device that provides a communication service for transmitting or receiving data to or from the third communication server 25 of the headquarters system 20 via the second communication network NWb.

[0029] The conversion server 40 is a computer device that provides a service in the case where a transaction with an electronic receipt member has been settled at the POS terminal 32 but the receipt cannot be digitized, to obtain data relating to the transaction, i.e., transaction data, from the store system 30, convert the data into receipt data, and output the data to the receipt server 11. In other words, the conversion server 40 is an example of a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100. The conversion server 40 may provide the service in an on-premise environment, or may provide the service in a cloud computing environment.

[0030] Details will be described later, but for example, when a transaction with an electronic receipt member is settled at the POS terminal 32 while the member server 22 is offline, the POS terminal 32 may not be able to obtain the electronic receipt ID of that electronic receipt member. If the POS terminal 32 cannot obtain the electronic receipt ID, it cannot generate receipt data. In such a case, the conversion server 40 obtains the transaction data of that transaction from the store system 30, converts the data into receipt data, and outputs it to the receipt server 11.

[0031] [Receipt server description] 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the receipt server 11. The receipt server 11 includes a processor 111, a main memory 112, an auxiliary storage device 113, a first communication interface 114, a second communication interface 115, and a system transmission path 116. The system transmission path 116 includes an address bus, a data bus, and a control signal line. The system transmission path 116 connects the processor 111 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0032] The receipt server 11 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 111, a main memory 112, an auxiliary storage device 113, a first communication interface 114, and a second communication interface 115 via a system transmission line .

[0033] The processor 111 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 111 controls each part to realize various functions of the receipt server 11 according to an operating system or application programs. The processor 111 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 111 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0034] The main memory 112 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 112 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 112 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 112 may store data required for the processor 111 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 112 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 111. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0035] The auxiliary storage device 113 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 113. The auxiliary storage device 113 stores data used by the processor 111 in performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 111, and the like. The auxiliary storage device 113 may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0036] The first communication interface 114 is an interface for performing data communication between the first communication server 23 and the conversion server 40 of the headquarters system 20 via the first communication network NWa.

[0037] The second communication interface 115 is an interface for performing data communication with the information terminal 200 via the fourth communication network NWd.

[0038] In the receipt server 11 configured as above, part of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 113 is used as an area for a receipt file 51 and an area for an association table 52. The receipt file 51 is a data file for storing the receipt data described above.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, the link table 52 is a data table that links the electronic receipt ID of an electronic receipt member with the store member ID of a store member. The link table 52 is created for each store that provides the electronic receipt service and the member service. That is, when an electronic receipt member becomes a member of a store that provides the member service, the store member ID of the electronic receipt member is described in the link table 52 of the store in association with the electronic receipt ID of the electronic receipt member. In this way, when a user of a member service that can obtain benefits by becoming a member is a user of the electronic receipt service, the link table 52 stores the first user identification information that identifies the user of the member service, i.e., the store member ID, and the second user identification information that identifies the user of the electronic receipt service, i.e., the electronic receipt ID, in association with each other. Here, the link table 52 functions as a storage means provided in the receipt server 11.

[0040] The processor 111 of the receipt server 11 has a function as the providing means 53. The function as the providing means 53 is realized by the processor 111 performing information processing based on a first control program. The first control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 112 or the auxiliary storage device 113. There are no particular limitations on the method for installing the first control program in the main memory 112 or the auxiliary storage device 113. The first control program can be installed in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323 by recording the first control program on a removable recording medium, or by distributing the first control program through communication via a network. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0041] The providing means 53 is a function that periodically provides the information stored in the storage means, that is, the data of the linkage table 52, to the first server. In this embodiment, the first server is the member server 22. For example, at a predetermined time every day, the processor 111 provides the data of the linkage table 52 for each store to the member server 22 provided in the headquarters system 20 of the store. Specifically, the processor 111 extracts the linkage table 52 of the store having the headquarters system 20, and transmits the extracted data of the linkage table 52 to the member server 22 via the first communication interface 114. The data of the linkage table 52 transmitted from the first communication interface 114 is received by the first communication server 23 included in the headquarters system 20 of the corresponding store via the first communication network NWa, and is further sent to the member server 22 via the headquarters network 26. Incidentally, the time at which the data of the linkage table 52 is provided to the first server is not particularly limited, but in consideration of the operation, it is preferable that it is a predetermined time before the opening time of the store. [Member Server Description] 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server 22. The member server 22 includes a processor 221, a main memory 222, an auxiliary storage device 223, a communication interface 224, and a system transmission path 225. The system transmission path 225 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 225 connects the processor 221 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0042] The member server 22 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 221 , a main memory 222 , an auxiliary storage device 223 , and a communication interface 224 via a system transmission line 225 .

[0043] The processor 221 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 221 controls each part to realize various functions of the member server 22 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 221 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 221 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0044] The main memory 222 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 222 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 222 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 222 may store data required for the processor 221 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 222 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 221. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0045] The auxiliary storage device 223 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 223. The auxiliary storage device 223 stores data used by the processor 221 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 221, etc. The auxiliary storage device 223 may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0046] The communication interface 224 is an interface for performing data communication between the devices connected via the headquarters network 26, that is, the headquarters server 21, the first communication server 23, the second communication server 24, and the third communication server 25.

[0047] In the member server 22 configured as above, part of the memory area of ​​the auxiliary memory device 223 is used as an area for a member database 61 and an area for an association table 521. The association table 521 represents the association table 52 provided to the receipt server 11 by the providing means 53. The member database 61 stores a member record created for each store member. The member record stores the current points held by the store member identified by the store member ID in association with the store member ID.

[0048] The processor 221 of the member server 22 has a function as a search means 62. The function as the search means 62 is realized by the processor 221 performing information processing based on a second control program. The second control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 222 or the auxiliary storage device 223. The method of installing the second control program in the main memory 222 or the auxiliary storage device 223 is not particularly limited. The second control program can be installed in the main memory 222 or the auxiliary storage device 223 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the second control program by communication via a network. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by a device.

[0049] The search means 62 is a function for searching whether or not an electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID of a store member. When the search means 62 acquires the store member ID of a store member who has made a transaction at any POS terminal 32 in the store system 30, it searches the linkage table 521. If the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID are described in association with each other, the search means 62 determines that the electronic receipt ID is linked to the store member ID. The search means 62 then transmits the electronic receipt ID to the POS terminal 32 that has made the transaction for the store member identified by the store member ID.

[0050] [Store server explanation] 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store server 31. The store server 31 includes a processor 311, a main memory 312, an auxiliary storage device 313, a clock 314, a communication interface 315, and a system transmission path 316. The system transmission path 316 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 316 connects the processor 311 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0051] The store server 31 is configured as a computer by connecting a processor 311, a main memory 312, an auxiliary storage device 313, a clock 314, and a communication interface 315 via a system transmission line 316.

[0052] The processor 311 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 311 controls each part to realize various functions of the store server 31 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 311 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 311 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0053] The main memory 312 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 312 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 312 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 312 may store data required for the processor 311 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 312 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 311. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0054] The auxiliary storage device 313 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 313. The auxiliary storage device 313 stores data used by the processor 311 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 311, etc. The auxiliary storage device 313 may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0055] The clock 314 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 311 processes the date and time kept by the clock 314 as the current date and time.

[0056] The communication interface 315 is an interface for performing data communication with devices connected via the in-store network 34, that is, the POS terminals 32 and the communication server 33.

[0057] The store server 31 configured as above uses a part of the memory area of ​​the auxiliary memory device 223 as a storage area 71 for a transaction file 70. The transaction file 70 is a data file that is created every time a transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32. Every time a transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, the store server 31 receives the transaction file 70 created at the POS terminal 32 via the in-store network 34 and stores it in the storage area 71.

[0058] 6 is a schematic diagram showing the main items of data described in the transaction file 70. As shown in the figure, the transaction file 70 describes data identified by items such as a transaction ID, transaction date and time, register number, responsible person information, purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, store member ID, electronic receipt ID, and processing status ST. The data of each item described in the transaction file 70 is collectively referred to as transaction data. The transaction file 70 stores the transaction data in, for example, a CSV (Comma Separated Values) format.

[0059] The transaction ID is identification information that is generated for each transaction to identify each transaction settled at the POS terminal 32. The transaction date and time is the date and time when the transaction was settled. The register number is a number for identifying the POS terminal 32 that settled the transaction. A serial number starting from, for example, "1" is set as the register number for each POS terminal 32. The responsible person information is information about the store clerk who operated the POS terminal 32. The store clerk performs a sign-in operation when starting to operate the POS terminal 32. In response to this sign-in operation, the employee code or name, etc. of the store clerk is set as responsible person information in the POS terminal 32.

[0060] Purchase data is the amount and number of items purchased by the consumer who is the subject of the transaction. The subtotal amount is the total amount excluding tax of the items purchased by the subject of the transaction. The tax amount is the total amount of tax levied on the items purchased by the subject of the transaction. Total data is the total number and total amount of items purchased by the subject of the transaction. Payment data is data on the method and amount paid by the consumer for the total amount. For example, if the subject of the transaction pays 100 yen in cash for a total amount of 50 yen, the payment data will show that the payment method is cash, the payment amount is 100 yen, and the change is 50 yen.

[0061] If the transaction subject is a store member, the store member ID of that store member is recorded as the store member ID. If the transaction subject is not a store member, the store member ID is not included in the transaction file 70. If the transaction subject is an electronic receipt member, the electronic receipt ID of that electronic receipt member is recorded as the electronic receipt ID. If the transaction subject is not an electronic receipt member, the electronic receipt ID is not included in the transaction file 70.

[0062] The processing status ST is data indicating the state of the transaction file 70. The state of the transaction file 70 includes an unprocessed state in which processing by the extraction means 73 described later has not been performed, and a processed state in which processing by the extraction means 73 has been performed. In this embodiment, the processing status ST indicating the unprocessed state is set to "0", and the processing status ST indicating the processed state is set to "1".

[0063] It should be noted that the transaction data items are not limited to those shown in Fig. 6. Other items may be added, and some of the items shown in Fig. 1 may be omitted.

[0064] The processor 311 of the store server 31 has a function as a storage means 72 and a function as an extraction means 73 as functions related to the transaction file 70. The functions as the storage means 72 and the extraction means 73 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 311 according to a third control program. The third control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313. The method of installing the third control program in the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313 is not particularly limited. The third control program can be installed in the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313 by recording the third control program on a removable recording medium or by distributing the third control program by communication via a network. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card.

[0065] The storage means 72 has a function of storing a transaction file 70 that describes target person identification information that identifies the target person of a transaction settled by the settlement device and data related to the details of the transaction. In this embodiment, the settlement device is the POS terminal 32. The target person identification information is a store member ID. The data related to the details of the transaction is purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, etc. When the storage means 72 receives the transaction file 70 from the POS terminal 32, it writes and stores the transaction file 70 in the storage area 71. The storage means 72 may store in the storage area 71 only the transaction file 70 in which the store member ID is described from the POS terminal 32. In other words, a transaction file 70 that does not include a store member ID does not need to be stored in the storage area 71.

[0066] The extraction means 73 is a function that extracts transaction files 70 of transactions for which receipt data has not been generated from among the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71. Transaction files 70 of transactions for which receipt data has been generated include an electronic receipt ID. The extraction means 73 extracts transaction files 70 that include a store member ID but do not include an electronic receipt ID from among the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71.

[0067] [POS terminal explanation] 7 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 32. The POS terminal 32 includes a processor 321, a main memory 322, an auxiliary storage device 323, a clock 324, a communication interface 325, a keyboard 326, a display 327, a scanner 328, a printer 329, a card reader 3210, a change dispenser 3211, and a system transmission path 3212. The system transmission path 3212 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 3212 connects the processor 321 to each of the other parts directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0068] The POS terminal 32 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 321 to the main memory 322, the auxiliary storage device 323, the clock 324, and the communication interface 325 via a system transmission line 3212. The POS terminal 32 connects a keyboard 326, a display 327, a scanner 328, a printer 329, a card reader 3210, a change dispenser 3211, and the like to the system transmission line 3212 via a signal input / output circuit (not shown). The devices connected to the system transmission line 3212 are not limited to the above devices. Other devices, such as a touch panel and a cashless payment terminal, may also be connected.

[0069] The processor 321 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 321 controls each part to realize various functions of the POS terminal 32 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 321 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 321 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0070] The main memory 322 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 322 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 322 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 322 may store data required for the processor 321 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 322 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 321. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0071] The auxiliary storage device 323 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 323. The auxiliary storage device 323 stores data used by the processor 321 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 321, etc. The auxiliary storage device 323 may also store the above application programs.

[0072] The clock 324 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 321 processes the date and time kept by the clock 324 as the current date and time.

[0073] The communication interface 325 is an interface for performing data communication between devices connected via the in-store network 34, that is, the store server 31 and the communication server 33.

[0074] The keyboard 326 is an input device having various keys required for registering items and settling transactions. The display 327 is a display device for displaying the names, prices, total amounts, etc. of registered items. The scanner 328 is an input device for reading machine-readable codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The printer 329 is a printing device for printing data on receipt paper to issue receipts, etc. The card reader 3210 is an input device for reading data recorded on a card medium. The change machine 3211 is a device capable of depositing money and dispensing change.

[0075] The POS terminal 32 configured as above stores an agent program 81 in the auxiliary storage device 323. The agent program 81 is application software for generating receipt data by digitizing receipts printed and issued by the printer 329. Specifically, the agent program 81 analyzes the print data of the receipt to extract information to be included in the receipt data, and determines the item name indicating what type of information that information is based on the position of that information on the receipt. The agent program 81 then generates receipt data that shows the association between the extracted information and the item name determined for that information.

[0076] The processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 has functions as a member ID acquisition means 82, an associated ID acquisition means 83, a file creation means 84, a printing means 85, a first generation means 86, and a first output means 87. The functions as the member ID acquisition means 82, the associated ID acquisition means 83, the file creation means 84, the printing means 85, the first generation means 86, and the first output means 87 are realized by the processor 321 performing information processing based on a fourth control program. The fourth control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323. The method of installing the fourth control program in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323 is not particularly limited. The fourth control program can be installed in the main memory 322 or the auxiliary storage device 323 by recording the fourth control program on a removable recording medium or by distributing the fourth control program by communication via a network. 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.

[0077] Member ID acquisition means 82 is a function that reads the store member ID of a store member. The store member ID is displayed in the form of a machine-readable code, such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code, on the display device of information terminal 200 owned by the store member. Alternatively, the store member ID is recorded on a member card owned by the store member. Member ID acquisition means 82 reads the machine-readable code displayed on the display device with scanner 328. Alternatively, member ID acquisition means 82 reads card data recorded on the member card with card reader 3210. Then, member ID acquisition means 82 acquires the store member ID by analyzing the machine-readable code read by scanner 328 or the card data read by card reader 3210.

[0078] The associated ID obtaining means 83 is a function for obtaining an electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID obtained by the member ID obtaining means 82. The electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID is stored in an association table 521. The association table 521 is included in the member server 22. The associated ID obtaining means 83 obtains the electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID from the member server 22.

[0079] The file creation means 84 is a function that creates a transaction file 70 related to a transaction every time a transaction with a transacting party is settled. When a transaction with a transacting party is settled, the file creation means 84 creates a transaction file 70 including items such as a transaction ID, transaction date and time, register number, responsible person information, purchase data, subtotal amount, tax amount, total data, payment data, store member ID, electronic receipt ID, and processing status ST, as described with reference to FIG. 6. At this time, if a store member ID is acquired by the member ID acquisition means 82, the file creation means 84 includes the store member ID in the transaction file 70. If an electronic receipt ID is acquired by the linked ID acquisition means 83, the file creation means 84 includes the electronic receipt ID in the transaction file 70. Conversely, if a store member ID is not acquired, the store member ID is not included in the transaction file 70. If an electronic receipt ID is not acquired, the electronic receipt ID is not included in the transaction file 70. The processing status ST is a value "0" indicating an unprocessed state.

[0080] The printing means 85 has a function of printing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it is not possible to acquire at the time the transaction is settled that the person who is the recipient of the transaction is a user of the electronic receipt service. When an electronic receipt ID can be acquired by the associated ID acquisition means 83, the person who is the recipient of the transaction is a user of the electronic receipt service. When an electronic receipt ID cannot be acquired at the time the transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, the printing means 85 generates print data for printing a receipt showing details of the transaction, outputs the data to the printer 329, and controls receipt printing.

[0081] The first generating means 86 is a function for generating receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction when the first server has acquired, at the time of settlement of the transaction, that the recipient of the transaction settled at the POS terminal 32 is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data. The first server is the member server 22. The information held by the first server is data in the linkage table 521. When the first generating means 86 acquires an electronic receipt ID when the transaction is settled at the POS terminal 32, the first generating means 86 analyzes the print data of the receipt showing details of the transaction according to the agent program 81 to generate receipt data.

[0082] The first output means 87 has a function that outputs the receipt data generated by the first generation means 86 to the receipt server 11. The first output means 87 controls the receipt data to be sent from the communications interface 325. This control causes the receipt data to be sent to the receipt server 11 via the communications server 33, the second communications network NWb, the first communications server 23, and the first communications network NWa. The receipt data sent to the receipt server 11 is saved in the receipt file 51.

[0083] [Description of conversion server] 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the conversion server 40. The conversion server 40 includes a processor 401, a main memory 402, an auxiliary storage device 403, a first communication interface 404, a second communication interface 405, and a system transmission path 406. The system transmission path 406 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 406 connects the processor 401 to each of the other units directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0084] The conversion server 40 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 401 , a main memory 402 , an auxiliary storage device 403 , a first communication interface 404 and a second communication interface 405 via a system transmission line 406 .

[0085] The processor 401 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 401 controls each part to realize various functions of the conversion server 40 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 401 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 401 is preferably a multi-core processor that includes multiple processor cores and is capable of executing multiple processes in parallel.

[0086] The main memory 402 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 402 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 402 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 402 may store data required for the processor 401 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 402 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 401. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0087] The auxiliary storage device 403 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 403. The auxiliary storage device 403 stores data used by the processor 401 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 401, etc. The auxiliary storage device 403 may also store the above application programs.

[0088] The first communication interface 404 is an interface for performing data communication with the second communication server 24 of the headquarters system 20 via the third communication network NWc.

[0089] The second communication interface 405 is an interface for performing data communication with the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa.

[0090] The conversion server 40 configured as above stores a receipt digitization program 91 in the auxiliary storage device 403. The receipt digitization program 91 is application software for generating receipt data based on the transaction data described in the transaction file 70.

[0091] The processor 401 of the conversion server 40 has functions as a file acquisition means 92, an inquiry means 93, a second generation means 94, and a second output means 95. The functions as the file acquisition means 92, the inquiry means 93, the second generation means 94, and the second output means 95 are realized by information processing executed by the processor 401 according to a fifth control program. The fifth control program is a type of application software stored in the main memory 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403. The method of installing the fifth control program in the main memory 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403 is not particularly limited. The fifth control program can be installed in the main memory 402 or the auxiliary storage device 403 by recording the fifth control program on a removable recording medium or by distributing the fifth control program by communication via a network. 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.

[0092] The file acquisition means 92 is a function for acquiring the transaction file 70 extracted by the extraction means 73 of the store server 31. The file acquisition means 92 acquires the transaction file 70 output from the store server 31 of the store system 30 and input to the first communication interface 404 via the second communication network NWb and the third communication network NWc. Every time the file acquisition means 92 acquires a transaction file 70, it stores the transaction file 70 in the main memory 402, for example, in the order of acquisition.

[0093] The inquiry means 93 is a function for searching whether or not an electronic receipt ID is associated with a store member ID described in the transaction file 70 acquired by the file acquisition means 92. The inquiry means 93 inquires of the receipt server 11 connected via the first communication network NWa whether or not an electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID. In response to this inquiry, the processor 111 of the receipt server 11 searches the association table 52. If the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID are described in association with each other in the association table 52, the processor 111 transmits the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40. When the inquiry means 93 receives the electronic receipt ID from the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa, it writes the electronic receipt ID in the transaction file 70 in which the inquiring store member ID is described.

[0094] The second generating means 94 is a function for generating receipt data based on data related to transaction details described in the transaction file 70 extracted by the extracting means 73, that is, when it is obtained from information held by a second server different from the first server that a target person identified by target person identification information described in the transaction file 70 obtained by the file obtaining means 92 is a user of the electronic receipt service. The first server is the member server 22 that stores data of the linkage table 521 transmitted from the receipt server 11. The second server is the receipt server 11 that has the linkage table 52. The target person identification information is a store member ID. If the second generating means 94 receives an electronic receipt ID as a result of inquiring to the receipt server 11 by the inquiring means 93, it recognizes that the target person identified by the target person identification information is a user of the electronic receipt service.

[0095] The second generation means 94 generates receipt data in accordance with the receipt digitization program 91 based on the data in the transaction file 70, which describes the store member ID, which is the target identification information. Specifically, the second generation means 94 extracts data of items to be included in the receipt data by analyzing the transaction data in the transaction file 70, which is saved in CSV format. The second generation means 94 then generates receipt data from the extracted data of items and the item names.

[0096] The second output means 95 is a function that outputs the receipt data generated by the second generation means 94 to the receipt server 11. The second output means 95 controls the receipt data to be sent from the second communication interface 405. This control causes the receipt data to be sent to the receipt server 11 via the first communications network NWa. The receipt data sent to the receipt server 11 is saved in the receipt file 51.

[0097] [Explanation of how the electronic receipt system works] 9 and 10 are flow charts showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 according to the fourth control program. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 311 of the store server 31 according to the third control program. FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 401 of the conversion server 40 according to the fifth control program. 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 explained below are just an example. The contents and procedures can be changed as appropriate as long as similar effects can be achieved.

[0098] When a command to start a transaction is issued, for example, by inputting a start key arranged on the keyboard 326, the processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 starts information processing according to the procedure shown in the flowchart of Fig. 9. The processor 321 resets the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb to "0" as ACT1. The first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are both 1-bit data stored in the main memory 322. The functions of the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb will be made clear in the operation explanation described later.

[0099] After resetting the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb to "0", the processor 321 proceeds to ACT2. The processor 321 checks whether a store member ID has been acquired in ACT2. If the store member ID has not been acquired, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT3. The processor 321 checks whether data related to the item to be traded has been input in ACT3. If data related to the item has not been input, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT4. The processor 321 checks whether either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb has been set to "1" in ACT4. At this point, the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are both reset to "0", so the processor 321 returns to ACT2. In this way, if the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb are both reset to "0", the processor 321 waits for the store member ID to be acquired or for data related to the item to be input.

[0100] If the transaction subject is a store member, the operator of the POS terminal 32 operates the scanner 328 or the card reader 3210 to input the store member ID. After completing input of the store member ID or if the transaction subject is not a store member, the operator inputs data related to the item to be purchased by the transaction subject. The data related to the item is, for example, a product code. The product code is a unique code set for each product to identify each product individually. Each product is provided with a barcode representing the product code. The operator can input the data related to the item by having the scanner 328 read the barcode provided on the product. In the case of a face-to-face POS terminal or a shared POS terminal, the operator is a store clerk. In the case of a self-service POS terminal, the operator is the transaction subject.

[0101] When processor 321 acquires a store member ID by functioning as member ID acquisition means 82 while in the standby state of ACT2 and ACT3, the process proceeds to ACT5. Processor 321 stores the store member ID as ACT5. The stored store member ID is target identification information that identifies the target of the transaction settled by the settlement device, i.e., the POS terminal 3.

[0102] Having stored the store member ID, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT6. In ACT6, the processor 321 inquires of the member server 22 whether or not an electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID. That is, the processor 321 controls the communication interface 325 to send an inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID to the member server 22. This control causes the inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID to be sent from the communication interface 325. The inquiry command is transmitted in this order through the in-store network 34, the communication server 33, the second communication network NWb, the third communication server 25, and the headquarters network 26, and then sent to the member server 22. The inquiry command includes the store member ID.

[0103] In the member server 22, the link table 521 is searched by the function as the search means 62. Then, if the electronic receipt ID is described in the link table 521 in association with the store member ID included in the inquiry command, a response command including the electronic receipt ID is transmitted to the POS terminal 32 that transmitted the inquiry command. On the other hand, if the electronic receipt ID is not described in the link table 521 in association with the store member ID included in the inquiry command, a response command not including the electronic receipt ID is transmitted to the POS terminal 32 that transmitted the inquiry command.

[0104] The processor 321 of the POS terminal 32 that sent the inquiry command proceeds to ACT7. The processor 321 waits for a response command from the member server 22 in ACT7. Then, when the processor 321 receives the response command, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT8. In ACT8, the processor 321 checks whether an electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID. If the response command includes an electronic receipt ID, the processor 321 determines that the electronic receipt ID is associated. The processor 321 proceeds to ACT9. In ACT9, the processor 321 stores the electronic receipt ID included in the response command in the main memory 322. In ACT10, the processor 321 sets the first flag Fa to "1". Here, the processor 321 realizes the function of the associated ID acquisition means 83 by the processes in ACT6 to ACT9.

[0105] On the other hand, if in ACT7 the processor 321 sends an inquiry command but fails to receive a response command after a certain period of time has elapsed, or if in ACT8 the processor 321 receives a response command that does not include an electronic receipt ID, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT11. In ACT11, the processor 321 sets the second flag Fb to “1”.

[0106] When the first flag Fa is set to "1" in ACT10, or the second flag Fb is set to "1" in ACT11, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT3. The processor 321 checks whether data related to the item has been input in ACT3. If data related to the item has not been input, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT4. At this point, either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1", so the processor 321 returns to ACT3.

[0107] In this way, the first flag Fa is set to "1" when the electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID. The second flag Fb is set to "1" when the electronic receipt ID is not associated with the store member ID. After either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb is set to "1", that is, after the store member ID is acquired, the processor 321 is responsible for input of data related to items.

[0108] In ACT3, when data related to the item is input by operating the scanner 328 or the keyboard 326, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT21 in Fig. 10. The processor 321 executes a registration process in ACT21. The registration process is a process for registering purchase data, that is, data such as the price and number of items purchased by the consumer who is the subject of the transaction. The data is registered in a predetermined memory area secured in the main memory 322, for example.

[0109] After executing the registration process, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT22. The processor 321 checks whether or not a subtotal output has been instructed. If a subtotal output has not been instructed, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT23. The processor 321 checks whether or not either the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb has been set to "1" in ACT23. If both the first flag Fa and the second flag Fb have been reset to "0", the processor 321 returns to ACT2. The processor 321 waits to obtain a store member ID or to input data related to an item in ACT2 and ACT3. On the other hand, if the first flag Fa or the second flag Fb has been set to "1", the processor 321 returns to ACT3. The processor 321 waits to input data related to an item in ACT3.

[0110] When it is confirmed in ACT22 that the subtotal output has been instructed, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT24. The processor 321 executes subtotal processing in ACT24. The subtotal processing is a process in which the subtotal amount, tax amount, total amount, etc. are calculated based on the purchase data and displayed on the display 327. After confirming the total amount, the transaction target pays the amount equivalent to that total amount.

[0111] After executing the subtotal process, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT25. The processor 321 waits for the payment of the price in ACT25. For example, when cash equal to or greater than the total amount is inserted into the change machine 3211, the processor 321 recognizes that the payment has been made. The processor 321 proceeds to ACT26. The processor 321 executes a settlement process in ACT26. The settlement process is a process for calculating the change by subtracting the total amount from the amount inserted into the change machine 3211, that is, the deposited amount, and settling the transaction by dispensing cash equivalent to the change from the change machine 3211. Note that the settlement process is not limited to a process for cash payment. It may be a process for settling the transaction using other payment methods such as credit cards, electronic money, code payment, etc.

[0112] After completing the payment process, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT27. In ACT27, the processor 321 creates print data for a receipt. After creating the print data, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT28. In ACT28, the processor 321 checks whether the first flag Fa is set to "1". As described above, the first flag Fa is set to "1" if a response command including an electronic receipt ID is received in response to the inquiry in ACT6. In other words, if a response command including an electronic receipt ID is not received, the first flag Fa is not set to "1". Furthermore, if the transaction is settled without obtaining a store member ID in ACT2, the first flag Fa is not set to "1".

[0113] If the first flag Fa is not set to "1" in ACT28, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 29. In ACT 29, the processor 321, using its function as the printing means 85, outputs receipt print data to the printer 329 and controls the production of a paper receipt.

[0114] In this way, if the transaction target is not a store member, or if the transaction target is a store member but an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID of the store member cannot be obtained, a receipt showing the transaction details is issued as a paper receipt. Therefore, even if the transaction target is a store member and an electronic receipt member, if the response command including the electronic receipt ID to the inquiry of ACT6 cannot be received because the member server 22 is offline, for example, the receipt is not digitized and is handed over to the transaction target as a paper receipt.

[0115] On the other hand, if the first flag Fa is set to "1" in ACT28, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT30. The processor 321 executes the electronic receipt creation process in ACT30. That is, the processor 321, functioning as the first generation means 86, generates receipt data from the receipt print data in accordance with the agent program 81. The processor 321 then sends the receipt data to the receipt server 11, functioning as the first output means 87.

[0116] In this way, if a response command including an electronic receipt ID has been received in response to the inquiry in ACT6, the receipt is digitized in the POS terminal 32 and the receipt data is sent to the receipt server 11 and saved in the receipt file 51.

[0117] After issuing a paper receipt or sending receipt data, the processor 321 proceeds to ACT 31. In ACT 31, the processor 321 uses its function as the file creation means 84 to create a transaction file 70 that describes data corresponding to each item of the transaction data. Then, in ACT 32, the processor 321 sends the transaction file 70 to the store server 31. With this, the processor 321 ends the information processing for one transaction.

[0118] The processor 311 of the store server 31 repeats the process of storing the transaction file 70 in the storage area 71 by functioning as the storage means 72 every time the transaction file 70 is transmitted from the POS terminal 32. In addition, the processor 311, by functioning as the extraction means 73, executes information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 at regular intervals.

[0119] That is, the processor 311 waits for a certain period of time to elapse from the end of the previous process as ACT41. The certain period of time can be any period of time. However, since the processor 311 executes the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 every time the certain period of time elapses, if the interval of the certain period of time is too short, the load on the processor 311 will be large. On the other hand, although details will be described later, by executing the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11, even if the electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID cannot be obtained because the member server 22 is offline, for example, the receipt can be digitized later. For this reason, if the interval of the certain period of time is too long, it takes time for the electronic receipt member to receive the electronic receipt, which is not preferable. The certain period of time must be determined taking such circumstances into consideration. In this embodiment, the certain period of time is 15 minutes.

[0120] After a certain period of time has elapsed, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT42. The processor 311 resets the counter N to "0" in ACT42. The processor 311 then proceeds to ACT43. The processor 311 detects a transaction file 70 stored in the storage area 71 in ACT43. The processor 311 detects the transaction files 70 by going back in time from the transaction file 70 most recently stored in the storage area 71. The processor 311 checks whether the processing status ST of the detected transaction file 70 is "0" in ACT44. A transaction file 70 with a processing status ST of "0" is a transaction file 70 for which information processing based on the extraction means 73 has not yet been processed.

[0121] When the processor 311 confirms that the processing status ST of the detected transaction file 70 is "0", it proceeds to ACT45. In ACT45, the processor 311 confirms whether or not an electronic receipt ID is included in the transaction data of the transaction file 70. If an electronic receipt ID is included in the transaction data of the transaction file 70, the transaction file 70 is a transaction file 70 that describes transaction data related to a transaction with a transaction target who digitized a receipt in the POS terminal 32. The processor 311 proceeds to ACT49. The processing after ACT49 will be described later.

[0122] On the other hand, if the transaction data in the transaction file 70 includes an electronic receipt ID, that is, if a transaction file 70 is detected that describes transaction data relating to a transaction with a transaction partner who has not digitized receipts in the POS terminal 32, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT46. In ACT46, the processor 311 checks whether the transaction data in the transaction file 70 includes a store member ID. If the transaction data in the transaction file 70 does not include a store member ID, the transaction file 70 is a transaction file 70 that describes transaction data relating to a transaction with a non-store member. The processor 311 proceeds to ACT49. The processing after ACT49 will be described later.

[0123] On the other hand, if the transaction data in the transaction file 70 includes the store member ID, i.e., if a transaction file 70 describing transaction data relating to a transaction with a store member is detected, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 47. The processor 311 extracts the transaction file in ACT 47. The processor 311 also increments the counter N by "1" in ACT 48. Thereafter, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT 49. The extracted transaction file 70 is temporarily stored in the main memory 312, for example.

[0124] In this way, when the processor 311 detects a transaction file 70 including an electronic receipt ID, or detects a transaction file 70 including neither an electronic receipt ID nor a store member ID, or extracts a transaction file 70 including a store member ID but not an electronic receipt ID, the processor 311 proceeds to ACT49. The processor 311 rewrites the processing status ST of the transaction file 70 stored in the storage area 71 as ACT49 from "0" to "1". After that, the processor 311 returns to ACT43.

[0125] The processor 311 detects the next transaction file 70 from the storage area 71. If the processing status ST of the transaction file 70 is "0", the processor 311 executes the processes of ACT45 to ACT49 in the same manner as described above.

[0126] The processor 311 repeatedly executes the processes of ACT45 through ACT49 until it detects a transaction file 70 whose processing status ST is "1". When it is confirmed in ACT44 that the processing status ST of the transaction file 70 is "1", all transaction files 70 previously stored in the storage area 71 have been processed. The processor 311 proceeds from ACT44 to ACT50. In ACT50, the processor 311 checks whether the counter N is "1" or greater.

[0127] If the counter N is equal to or greater than "1", the extracted transaction file 70 exists. The processor 311 proceeds to ACT51. The processor 311 controls to output the extracted transaction file 70 to the conversion server 40 as ACT51. With this control, the extracted transaction file 70 is transmitted in the order of the communication interface 315, the headquarters network 26, the second communication server 24, and the third communication network NWc, and then sent to the conversion server 40. After outputting the transaction file 70 to the conversion server 40, the processor 311 ends the information processing of the procedure shown in the flow chart of FIG. 11. Note that if the counter N is "0" in ACT50, the transaction file 70 has not been extracted, so the processor 311 skips the processing of ACT51 and ends the information processing.

[0128] Next, the main information processing of the conversion server 40 that receives the transaction file 70 extracted by the store server 31 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 12, the processor 401 of the conversion server 40 waits to acquire the transaction file 70 by the function as the file acquisition means 92 as ACT61. When the processor 401 receives the transaction file 70 extracted by the store server 31 via the second communication interface 405, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT62. The processor 401 acquires a store member ID from the transaction file 70 by the function as the inquiry means 93 as ACT62. Then, the processor 401 performs control to output an inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID to the receipt server 11 as ACT93. By this control, the inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID is transmitted from the second communication interface 405 to the receipt server 11 via the first communication network NWa. The inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID includes the store member ID acquired in ACT62. It also includes a store code for identifying the store. The store code is stored in the conversion server 40.

[0129] The processor 111 of the receipt server 11 that has received the inquiry command for the electronic receipt ID acquires the store code and the store member ID from the inquiry command. The processor 111 then searches the association table 52 for the store identified by the store code to check whether the electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID. If the electronic receipt ID is associated, the processor 111 returns a response command including the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40 that has sent the inquiry command. On the other hand, if the electronic receipt ID is not associated, the processor 111 returns a response command not including the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40 that has sent the inquiry command.

[0130] The processor 401 of the conversion server 40, which has sent the electronic receipt ID inquiry command, proceeds to ACT64. The processor 401 waits for a response command in ACT64. When the response command is received via the second communication interface 405, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT65. The processor 401 checks whether the response command includes an electronic receipt ID in ACT65.

[0131] If the response command does not include an electronic receipt ID, there is no electronic receipt ID associated with the store member ID detected from the transaction file 70. The processor 401 ends the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0132] On the other hand, if the response command includes an electronic receipt ID, the electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID detected from the transaction file 70. The processor 401 proceeds to ACT66. The processor 401 executes electronic receipt conversion processing in ACT66. That is, the processor 401, using its function as the second generation means 94, generates receipt data from the transaction data in the transaction file 70 in accordance with the receipt digitization program 91. The processor 401 then uses its function as the second output means 95 to send the receipt data to the receipt server 11. With this, the processor 401 ends the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12.

[0133] [Explanation of how the electronic receipt system works] 13 is a sequence diagram when the POS terminal 32 acquires an electronic receipt ID from the member server 22. When the POS terminal 32 acquires the store member ID of the transaction target (ACT5), it inquires of the member server 22 whether or not an electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID (ACT6). In response to this inquiry, a query command including the store member ID is sent from the POS terminal 32 to the member server 22.

[0134] The member server 22 searches the association table 521 for the store member ID included in the inquiry command. If the result shows that the electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID, the member server 22 sends a response command including the electronic receipt ID to the POS terminal 32.

[0135] Upon receiving the response command including the electronic receipt ID, the POS terminal 32 completes the registration process (ACT21) and the settlement process (ACT26), and then executes the electronic receipt creation process based on the print data of the receipt in accordance with the agent program 81 (ACT30). As a result, receipt data is sent from the POS terminal 32 to the receipt server 11. The receipt data is saved in the receipt file 51 of the receipt server 11. In addition, a transaction file 70 is sent from the POS terminal 32 to the store server 31. The transaction file 70 describes transaction data including the store member ID and the electronic receipt ID. The transaction file 70 is saved in the storage area 71 of the store server 31.

[0136] 14 is a sequence diagram when the POS terminal 32 cannot acquire an electronic receipt ID from the member server 22. When the POS terminal 32 acquires the store member ID of the transaction target (ACT5), it inquires of the member server 22 whether or not an electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID (ACT6). In response to this inquiry, a query command including the store member ID is sent from the POS terminal 32 to the member server 22.

[0137] At this time, if the member server 22 is down and offline, for example, the member server 22 will not respond to an inquiry from the POS terminal 32. Therefore, the POS terminal 32 cannot obtain the electronic receipt ID. If the POS terminal 32 is unable to obtain the electronic receipt ID, it will not execute the electronic receipt process after completing the registration process (ACT21) and the settlement process (ACT26). The POS terminal 32 sends a transaction file 70 to the store server 31. The transaction file 70 describes transaction data that includes the store member ID but does not include the electronic receipt ID. The transaction file 70 is stored in the storage area 71 of the store server 31.

[0138] Every time a certain period of time elapses (YES in ACT41), the store server 31 extracts a transaction file 70 that includes a store member ID but does not include an electronic receipt ID from the transaction files 70 stored in the storage area 71 (ACT47). The store server 31 then outputs the extracted transaction file 70 to the conversion server 40 (ACT51). As a result of this operation, the store server 31 transmits the transaction file 70 that includes a store member ID but does not include an electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40.

[0139] When the conversion server 40 receives the transaction file 70, it inquires of the receipt server 11 whether or not an electronic receipt ID is associated with the store member ID included in the transaction file 70 (ACT63). In response to this inquiry, a query command including the store member ID is sent from the conversion server 40 to the receipt server 11.

[0140] The receipt server 11 searches the association table 52 for the store member ID included in the inquiry command. If the store member ID is found to be associated with an electronic receipt ID, the receipt server 11 sends a response command including the electronic receipt ID to the conversion server 40.

[0141] The conversion server 40, which has received the response command, executes the electronic receipt conversion process based on the transaction data described in the transaction file 70 in accordance with the receipt digitization program 91 (ACT66). As a result, receipt data is sent from the conversion server 40 to the receipt server 11. The receipt data is saved in the receipt file 51 of the receipt server 11.

[0142] Thus, by obtaining an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID at the POS terminal 32, not only the receipt data generated at the POS terminal 32 but also the receipt data of the transaction generated at the conversion server 40, because the conversion server 40 was able to obtain an electronic receipt ID linked to the store member ID even though the POS terminal 32 was unable to obtain one, is saved in the receipt file 51.

[0143] Fig. 15 is an example of a receipt image REa displayed on the display device of the information terminal 200 from receipt data generated by the POS terminal 32. Fig. 16 is an example of a receipt image REb displayed on the display device of the information terminal 200 from receipt data generated by the conversion server 40.

[0144] As shown in Figure 15, the receipt image REa displays header data ITa such as the store name and logo, commercial message ITb, transaction date and time ITc, register number ITd, responsible person information ITe, purchase data ITf, total amount ITg, tax amount ITh, payment data ITi, store member ID (ITj), transaction ID (ITk), etc.

[0145] 16, the receipt image REb displays header data ITa such as the store name and logo, transaction date and time ITc, register number ITd, responsible person information ITe, purchase data ITf, total amount ITg, tax amount ITh, payment data ITi, store member ID (ITj), transaction ID (ITk), etc. The commercial message ITb is not displayed because it is not included in the transaction data. However, even if the commercial message ITb is not displayed, the transaction date and time ITc, register number ITd, responsible person information ITe, purchase data ITf, total amount ITg, tax amount ITh, payment data ITi, etc., which show the details of the transaction and are necessary information for a receipt, are displayed, so there is no problem with the electronic receipt system 100.

[0146] As described above in detail, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide an electronic receipt system 100 that can digitize a receipt later even if an electronic receipt ID linked to a store member ID cannot be obtained because, for example, the member server 22 is offline.

[0147] Furthermore, the link table 521 held by the member server 22 is distributed from the receipt server 11, for example, once a day. For this reason, information on a transaction target who has linked a store member ID and an electronic receipt ID on the day of the transaction is not added to the link table 521. Therefore, the POS terminal 32 cannot obtain the electronic receipt ID linked with the store member ID. However, information on a transaction target who has linked a store member ID and an electronic receipt ID on the day is added in real time to the link table 521 held by the receipt server 11. Therefore, according to this embodiment, there is an advantage in that a receipt for a transaction can be digitized even for a transaction target who has linked a store member ID and an electronic receipt ID on the day of the transaction.

[0148] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, the receipt digitization program 91 is installed in the conversion server 40, and the functions of the file acquisition means 92, inquiry means 93, second generation means 94, and second output means 95 are executed by the processor 401 of the conversion server 40. In another embodiment, for example, the receipt digitization program 91 is installed in the headquarters server 21. Also, the functions of the file acquisition means 92, inquiry means 93, second generation means 94, and second output means 95 are programmed to be executed by the processor of the headquarters server 21. In other words, the headquarters server 21 is given the functions of the conversion server 40. It goes without saying that even if such a configuration is adopted, the same effects as those of the above embodiment can be achieved. Incidentally, in such an embodiment, the headquarters server 21 is a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100.

[0149] It is also possible to provide the store server 31 with the function of the conversion server 40. In that case, the store server 31 becomes a server device included in the electronic receipt system 100. That is, the server device is an apparatus including: a storage means for storing a transaction file describing target person identification information identifying a target person of a transaction settled by a settlement device and data related to the transaction details; an extraction means for extracting the transaction file of a transaction for which the receipt data has not been generated from the transaction files stored by the storage means; a file acquisition means for acquiring the transaction file extracted by the extraction means; a generation means for generating the receipt data based on the data related to the transaction details described in the transaction file when it is acquired that a target person identified by the target person identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquisition means is a user of the electronic receipt service based on information held by a second server different from the first server; and an output means for outputting the receipt data generated by the generation means to a receipt server.

[0150] In the above embodiment, the store server 31 has the functions of the storage means 72 and the extraction means 73, but in another embodiment, the headquarters server 21 or the conversion server 40 may have the functions of the storage means 72 and the extraction means 73. For example, by having the functions of the storage means 72 and the extraction means 73 in the conversion server 40, a server device equipped with the storage means 72 and the extraction means 73 in addition to the file acquisition means 92, the second generation means 94, and the second output means 95 can be configured by the conversion server 40.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the processor 311 of the store server 31 detects the transaction files 70 in ACT43 of Fig. 11 by going back in time from the transaction file 70 that was most recently stored in the storage area 71. In this regard, the processor 311 of the store server 31 may detect the transaction files 70 by going back in time from the transaction file 70 that was oldest stored in the storage area 71. In any case, the processor 311 of the store server 31 may be programmed to detect an unprocessed transaction file 70, i.e., a transaction file 70 whose processing status ST is "0", from the storage area 71, execute the processes of ACT45 to ACT49, and, once the detection is complete, execute the processes of ACT50 and ACT51.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the first server is the member server 22. The first server is not limited to the member server 22. In short, it is sufficient if it is a server that stores the linkage table 52 periodically distributed from the receipt server 11 and is capable of outputting information indicating that the person who made a transaction settled at a settlement device, for example the POS terminal 32, is an electronic receipt member, that is, an electronic receipt ID, to the settlement device. The second server is also not limited to the receipt server 11. In short, it is sufficient if it is a server that has the linkage table 52 that can instantly add data associating an electronic receipt ID with a store member ID when the electronic receipt ID and the store member ID are linked.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the electronic receipt system 100 for a chain store is exemplified, but the store may be an independent store. In the case of an independent store, since there is no headquarters system 20, the store system 30 has the functions of the member server 22, the first communication server 23, and the second communication server 24, and thus can achieve the same effects as the above embodiment.

[0154] 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]

[0155] 10... receipt management system, 11... receipt server, 20... headquarters system, headquarters server 21, 22... member server, 23... first communication server, 24... second communication server, 25... third communication server, 30... store system, 31... store server, 32... POS terminal, 33... communication server, 40... conversion server, 51... receipt file, 52, 521... linkage table, 53... provision means, 61... member database, 62... search means, 70... acquisition Reference file, 71...storage area, 72...storage means, 73...extraction means, 81...agent program, 82...membership ID acquisition means, 83...associated ID acquisition means, 84...file creation means, 85...printing means, 86...first generation means, 87...first output means, 91...receipt digitization program, 92...file acquisition means, 93...inquiry means, 94...second generation means, 95...second output means, 100...electronic receipt system, 200...information terminal.

Claims

1. a first generating means for generating receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it has been obtained, based on information held by the first server, that the person who is the subject of a transaction settled by the settlement device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data at the time of settlement of the transaction; a storage means for storing a transaction file that describes a person identification information that identifies a person who is a person in a transaction settled by the settlement device and data related to details of the transaction; an extraction means for extracting, from the transaction files stored by the storage means, the transaction files of transactions for which the receipt data has not been generated; a second generating means for generating the receipt data based on data relating to details of the transaction described in the transaction file when it is possible to obtain, based on information held by a second server different from the first server, that the target person identified by the target person identification information described in the transaction file extracted by the extracting means is a user of the electronic receipt service; an output unit that outputs the receipt data generated by the first generation unit or the second generation unit to a receipt server that manages the receipt data; An electronic receipt system comprising:

2. The second server, a storage means for storing, in a case where a user of a store membership service who can obtain benefits at the time of settlement of a transaction by becoming a member is a user of the electronic receipt service, a first user identification information for identifying the user of the store membership service and a second user identification information for identifying the user of the electronic receipt service in association with each other; providing means for periodically providing the information stored in the storage means to the first server; Equipped with the information held by the first server is information provided by the providing means from the second server, 2. The electronic receipt system according to claim 1, wherein the information held by the second server is information stored in the storage means.

3. The electronic receipt system according to claim 2 , wherein the second server is the receipt server.

4. a printing means for printing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it is not possible to acquire information that a person who is a target of a transaction settled by the settlement device is a user of the electronic receipt service at the time of settlement of the transaction; 2. The electronic receipt system of claim 1, further comprising:

5. an electronic receipt system including: a first generating means for generating receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it has been possible to acquire, from information held by a first server, that the person who is the subject of a transaction settled on the settlement device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data at the time the transaction is settled; a storing means for storing a transaction file that describes person identification information that identifies the person who is the subject of the transaction settled on the settlement device and data related to the details of the transaction; and an extracting means for extracting, from the transaction files stored by the storing means, the transaction file of a transaction for which the receipt data has not been generated; a file acquisition means for acquiring the transaction file extracted by the extraction means; a generating means for generating the receipt data based on data relating to details of the transaction described in the transaction file when it is possible to obtain, based on information held by a second server different from the first server, that the target person identified by the target person identification information described in the transaction file obtained by the file obtaining means is a user of the electronic receipt service; an output means for outputting the receipt data generated by the generation means to a receipt server; A server device comprising:

6. a computer of a server device included in an electronic receipt system, the computer comprising: a first generating means for generating receipt data by digitizing a receipt showing details of a transaction when it is possible to obtain, from information held by a first server, that the person who is the subject of a transaction settled on a settlement device is a user of an electronic receipt service that receives a receipt showing details of the transaction in electronic data at the time the transaction is settled; a storing means for storing a transaction file that describes person identification information that identifies the person who is the subject of the transaction settled on the settlement device and data related to the details of the transaction; and an extracting means for extracting, from the transaction files stored by the storing means, the transaction file of a transaction for which the receipt data has not been generated; a file acquisition means for acquiring the transaction file extracted by the extraction means; a generating means for generating the receipt data based on data relating to details of the transaction described in the transaction file when it is determined from information held by a second server different from the first server that the target person identified by the target person identification information described in the transaction file acquired by the file acquiring means is a user of the electronic receipt service; and an output means for outputting the receipt data generated by the generation means to a receipt server; A program to function as a

Images