Information processing system, method, and program

Abstract

To allow for hassle-free confirmation of the prescribed confirmation prior to settlement.SOLUTION: An information processing system has a reception unit and a settlement unit. The reception unit receives input in response to predetermined confirmation after the registration of information on articles to be purchased by a customer has been completed by the customer's operation and before the settlement of the articles is made. The predetermined confirmation is confirmation that must be completed before settlement. The settlement unit settles the articles after receiving input in response to the predetermined confirmation. The predetermined confirmation is confirmation to be performed by a clerk when the registration of any of the articles that have been registered is cancelled by the customer's operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing system and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] In some cases, product registration and payment are performed by the customer. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technology for performing age verification in a fully self-checkout mode. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-026713 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When a customer operates to register a product and make a payment, there may be cases where items need to be confirmed. In such cases, it is desirable to be able to confirm the items without hassle.

[0005] One example of an objective of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing system or the like that allows predetermined confirmation to be performed hassle-free before payment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing system in one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acceptance means for accepting input in response to a specified confirmation after registration of information of a product to be purchased by a customer has been completed by the customer's operation and before payment for the registered product is made, and a payment means for making payment for the registered product after accepting the input in response to the specified confirmation, the specified confirmation being a confirmation made by a store clerk when registration of any of the registered products is canceled by the customer's operation.

[0007] In one aspect of the method disclosed herein, a computer executes a process in which, after registration of information about products to be purchased by a customer is completed through operation by the customer, the computer accepts input in response to a specified confirmation before making payment for the registered products, and makes payment for the registered products after accepting the input in response to the specified confirmation, the specified confirmation being a confirmation made by a store clerk when registration of any of the registered products is canceled through operation by the customer.

[0008] A program in one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute a process in which, after registration of information about a product to be purchased by a customer has been completed through operation of the customer, an input corresponding to a specified confirmation is received before payment for the registered product is made, and payment for the registered product is made after the input corresponding to the specified confirmation has been received, the specified confirmation being a confirmation performed by a store clerk when registration of any of the registered products is canceled through operation of the customer. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, predetermined confirmation can be performed hassle-free before payment. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing system according to a first embodiment; [Diagram 2] 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a settlement system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a settlement device according to a second embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a server according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an attendant terminal device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a product registration screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for confirming whether a product will be consumed in a store. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for selecting whether to eat or drink at a store for each product. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for selecting a payment method. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of an operation for confirming whether a tax rate is changed in the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart (part 2) showing an example of an operation for confirming whether a tax rate is changed in the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for confirming whether or not to use a paid bag. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of an operation of checking a paid bag or the like in the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart (part 2) showing an example of an operation of checking a paid bag or the like in the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] 13 is an example of a screen displayed on the attendant terminal device showing the cancellation status of products by payment device. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen indicating that a store clerk is being called when a canceled product is present; [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting input of a confirmation code. [Figure 19] 13 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of an operation of confirming collection of a canceled product in the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20] 13 is a flowchart (part 2) showing an example of an operation of confirming collection of a canceled product in the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen related to age verification on the attendant terminal device. [Figure 22]13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen indicating that a store clerk is being called when an age verification product has been registered; FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting input of a confirmation code. [Figure 24] 13 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of an age verification operation of the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 25] 13 is a flowchart (part 2) showing an example of an age verification operation of the settlement system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a computer device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of the settlement system (information processing system), settlement device (information processing device), method, program, and non-transitory recording medium for recording the program according to the present disclosure will be described in detail. The present embodiments do not limit the disclosed technology.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) In the first embodiment, a basic function of an information processing system according to the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. The information processing system 1 includes a receiving unit 101 and a settlement unit 102.

[0013] The reception unit 101 receives input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation after the registration of information of a product purchased by a customer is completed by the customer's operation and before the payment for the product is made. After the registration of information of the product is completed and before the payment for the product is made, for example, when the completion of product registration by the customer is detected, such as when the customer presses a "Pay" button, or when it is detected that the customer has expressed an intention to pay. Note that these timings are not limited to the customer pressing the "Pay" button.

[0014] Here, the predetermined confirmation is a confirmation that needs to be completed before payment. The predetermined confirmation may be confirmation by the customer. Confirmation by the customer may include confirmation regarding the use of predetermined items such as bags, chopsticks, spoons, and forks, which are charged for, confirmation regarding the purchase of items with a change in tax rate, etc. Confirmation regarding the purchase of items with a change in tax rate is, for example, confirmation as to whether the registered items will be consumed at the store, but is not limited to this. Detailed confirmation of these items will be described in embodiment 2.

[0015] The predetermined confirmation may be a confirmation by a store clerk. The confirmation by the store clerk may include confirmation as to whether a product whose product registration has been cancelled has been collected, confirmation of the customer's age when purchasing a product that requires age verification, etc. Details of these confirmations will be described in the second embodiment.

[0016] The method of inputting in response to the predetermined confirmation is not particularly limited. For example, the reception unit 101 may receive an input to an input / output device such as a touch panel display. The reception unit 101 may also receive an input to an input device such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a microphone.

[0017] The payment unit 102 performs payment for the product after accepting input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation. The payment method is not particularly limited. The payment method may be cash payment, credit card payment, code payment, point payment, debit payment, etc.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment. The reception unit 101 judges whether or not the registration of the product is completed (step S101). In step S101, the reception unit 101 may judge that the registration of the product is completed by pressing a "Pay" button for transitioning to a payment process. If the registration of the product is not completed (step S101: No), the information processing system 1 returns to step S101. If the registration of the product is completed (step S101: Yes), the reception unit 101 accepts an input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation (step S102). The input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation is an input of the confirmation result. Note that the person who performs the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation differs depending on the confirmation item. For example, in the case of confirmation by a customer, the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation is performed by the customer's operation. On the other hand, in the case of confirmation by a store clerk, the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation is performed by the store clerk's operation.

[0019] When the payment unit 102 receives the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation, it performs the payment (step S103). In step S103, when the payment unit 102 receives the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation and the condition for starting the payment is satisfied, the payment unit 102 performs the payment. The condition for starting the payment differs depending on, for example, the function of the device having the payment unit 102. For example, the condition for starting the payment may be obtaining the settlement information described in the second embodiment. Or, the condition for starting the payment may be that a payment method has been selected.

[0020] As described above, in the first embodiment, the information processing system 1 displays a screen for a predetermined confirmation after product registration and before payment. Then, when the information processing system 1 receives an input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation, it performs payment. In this way, after product registration and before payment, ,hand The required confirmation can be performed without delay.

[0021] The first embodiment is not limited to the above-mentioned example, and various modifications are possible. In addition, each functional unit may be realized by one device. Alternatively, each functional unit may be realized by multiple devices. For example, the reception unit 101 and the settlement unit 102 may be different devices.

[0022] There is no particular limitation on the store that uses the information processing system 1. For example, the store may be a supermarket, a super center, a convenience store, a mass retailer, a home center, a drug store, or an individual store such as a bakery or a prepared food store.

[0023] (Embodiment 2) In the second embodiment, specific examples of the predetermined confirmation, confirmation by the customer and confirmation by the store clerk, are given and explained. Also, in the second embodiment, an example is explained in which a number of different confirmations are performed before payment. Next, the second embodiment is explained in detail with reference to the drawings. Below, explanations of contents that overlap with the above explanation will be omitted to the extent that the explanation of the second embodiment is not unclear. Also, in the second embodiment, a settlement system is given as an example of an information processing system.

[0024] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a settlement system according to the embodiment 2. The settlement system 2 includes, for example, a settlement device 20, an attendant terminal device 22, and a server 21. The settlement device 20, the attendant terminal device 22, and the server 21 are connected via a communication network 23.

[0025] The settlement device 20 is, for example, a device (information processing device) that settles the payment for products purchased by a customer through an operation by the customer. Furthermore, the settlement device 20 has a function of a product registration device that registers information on products purchased by a customer through an operation by the customer.

[0026] The server 21 manages a product DB that stores product information. The server 21 also manages a list of products purchased by customers (hereinafter referred to as a purchased product list). The product DB and the purchased product list will be described later.

[0027] The attendant terminal device 22 is an example of a terminal device of a store clerk. The attendant terminal device 22 is not particularly limited to a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, a tablet-type terminal device, and the like. The attendant terminal device 22 manages, for example, the status of each settlement device 20. The attendant terminal device 22 may display the status for each settlement device 20 on a display device such as a display. In addition, the attendant terminal device 22 may be notified of various information such as an error from each settlement device 20. In the second embodiment, the settlement device 20 performs various notifications to the attendant terminal device 22 when age verification is required, when product collection is required, and the like. Then, the attendant terminal device 22 displays a screen related to these notifications. The timing of the notification will be described later. In addition, the display method of the screen, etc. is not particularly limited. This allows the store clerk to know which settlement device 20 requires age verification and product collection. In addition, a product requiring age verification will be referred to as an age verification product hereinafter.

[0028] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of the settlement device 20 according to the second embodiment. The settlement device 20 has an acquisition unit 203, a display control unit 204, a reception unit 201, a settlement unit 202, an issuance control unit 205, a notification unit 206, an identification unit 207, and a storage unit 208. The reception unit 201 has, as a basic function, the function of the reception unit 101 described in the first embodiment. Moreover, the settlement unit 202 has, as a basic function, the function of the settlement unit 102 described in the first embodiment.

[0029] The storage unit 208 stores, for example, data used for processing by each unit of the settlement device 20. The storage unit 208 stores, for example, processing results by each unit of the settlement device 20. Examples of the storage unit 208 include a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), and a solid state drive (SSD). The storage unit 208 may be a combination of these. The storage unit 208 may be realized by a plurality of devices connected via the communication network 23. That is, the storage unit 208 may be arranged in a distributed manner.

[0030] The settlement device 20 may have a configuration including some of the functional units shown in Fig. 4. Alternatively, the settlement device 20 may have functional units that are not shown.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the server 21 according to the second embodiment. The server 21 includes a list generating unit 211, a settlement information generating unit 212, a sales management unit 213, and a storage unit 214. The storage unit 214 stores, for example, data used in the processing of each unit of the server 21. The storage unit 214 stores, for example, the processing results of each unit of the server 21. Examples of the storage unit 214 include ROM, RAM, semiconductor memory, HDD, and SSD. The storage unit 214 may be a combination of these. The storage unit 214 may be realized by a plurality of devices connected via the communication network 23.

[0032] The server 21 may have a configuration including some of the functional units shown in Fig. 5. Alternatively, the server 21 may have a functional unit that is not shown.

[0033] The storage unit 214 includes, for example, a product DB 2101, a purchased product list DB 2102, and a sales DB 2103.

[0034] The product DB 2101 stores information on products handled in a store or in an affiliated store including the store. Product information may be referred to as product information hereinafter for short. Specifically, the product DB 2101 stores product information, for example, by product. Product information is information such as a product ID (identifier), product name, product classification, product price, and product features. The product ID is an identifier that can identify a product. The product ID is not particularly limited. The product ID is, for example, a product code (hereinafter referred to as a product code). More specifically, the product ID may be, for example, at least one product code such as a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code, an EAN (European Article Number) code, and a UPC (Universal Product Code). Alternatively, the product ID may be a product name. The product classification is not particularly limited. For example, the product classification may be a major classification such as food, stationery, etc. Furthermore, the product classification may be a sub-classification into which a major classification is divided, such as confectionery, meat, vegetables, etc. Furthermore, the product classification may be used to determine whether or not a product is subject to a reduced tax rate. The product price is the price of the product. The product price is the base price of the product. The base price is the base price when calculating the price including tax, inheritance, and total amount. Hereinafter, the base price will be referred to as the price excluding tax. Also, the price including tax is the price excluding tax plus consumption tax. The product features are not particularly limited. The product features may be information such as the best-before date, expiration date, and the product's manufacturer.

[0035] Furthermore, the product information may include information for identifying the product in addition to the product ID information. For example, the product information may include image data of the product, information on features obtained from the image data of the product, and the like.

[0036] The product DB 2101 may include some of the above-mentioned information about products, or may include information other than the above-mentioned information about products.

[0037] The purchased item list DB2102 stores the latest list of purchased items for which payment has not been completed for each customer. The purchased item list stores, for example, for each customer, information for identifying the customer, product information of the items the customer plans to purchase, information on the purchase quantity, and information for identifying whether the customer will eat or drink in the store, in association with each other. The information for identifying the customer is not particularly limited as long as it can uniquely identify the customer. For example, before starting to register products for a new customer, a customer ID is assigned to the customer. Note that when a member ID such as a point card number is accepted, the member ID may be used as the customer ID.

[0038] Also, for example, the information of a product registered in the purchased product list of the purchased product list DB 2102 includes a product ID. As a result, the settlement device 20 and the server 21 can obtain the price (price excluding tax), the name of the product, and the like from the product DB 2101 by the product ID registered in the purchased product list.

[0039] Here, the contents stored in the purchased item list can be changed in various ways depending on the construction method of the settlement system 2. In the second embodiment, an example will be described in which the settlement information generation unit 212 of the server 21 calculates the total amount including tax, and the settlement device 20 displays the calculation result. Note that the purchased item list may have the unit price and purchase quantity, the applicable tax rate, and the tax-inclusive price for each registered item. For this reason, the purchased item list DB2102 may be configured to include part of the above-mentioned information related to the purchased item list. Furthermore, the purchased item list DB2102 may include information other than the above-mentioned information related to the purchased item list.

[0040] The sales DB2103 is, for example, information on the sales of each store. The sales DB2103 may manage, for example, information corresponding to each payment for each store. Specifically, the sales DB2103 stores, for example, information identifying the store, information identifying the customer, information identifying the settlement device 20, information on the purchased product, the purchase quantity, and the purchase date and time in association with each other. The information identifying the store is an identifier that uniquely identifies the store. The information identifying the settlement device 20 registered in the sales DB2103 is, for example, the identifier of the settlement device 20 that performed the payment. The information identifying the customer registered in the sales DB2103 may be the above-mentioned customer ID. Furthermore, the sales DB2103 may include, as other information, information that is included in each receipt.

[0041] The sales DB 2103 may be configured to include some of the above-mentioned information on sales. The sales DB 2103 may also include information other than the above-mentioned information on sales.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the attendant terminal device 22 according to the second embodiment. The attendant terminal device 22 has a display control unit 221 and a storage unit 222. The storage unit 222 stores, for example, data used for processing of each unit of the attendant terminal device 22. The storage unit 222 stores, for example, processing results of each unit of the attendant terminal device 22. Examples of the storage unit 222 include ROM, RAM, semiconductor memory, HDD, and SSD. The storage unit 222 may be a combination of these. The storage unit 222 may be realized by a plurality of devices connected via the communication network 23. That is, the storage unit 222 may be distributed and arranged.

[0043] The attendant terminal device 22 may have a configuration including some of the functional units shown in Fig. 6. Alternatively, the attendant terminal device 22 may have a functional unit that is not shown.

[0044] As described in the first embodiment, there are various types of predetermined checks. Before describing each check in detail, the registration of product information will be described.

[0045] First, the acquisition unit 203 acquires information on the product purchased by the customer. Specifically, the acquisition unit 203 acquires information on the product purchased by the customer through an operation by the customer. The product information acquired here may be a product ID. The product information acquired may be image data of the product, or information on features obtained from the image data of the product. The product information acquired is not limited to this. The product information acquired may be any information as long as it can uniquely identify the product that the customer is about to purchase. There are various examples of methods for acquiring product information, such as reading a product code that is a product ID, identifying the product by image, and reading a tag. The acquisition method is not particularly limited.

[0046] The acquiring unit 203 acquires product information by, for example, reading a product code via a reading device. The product code may be the above-mentioned JAN code. The product code may be expressed by, for example, numbers, letters, or a combination of these. When the product code is an encoded code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code attached to the product, the acquiring unit 203 acquires the encoded code. Then, the acquiring unit 203 decodes the encoded code. Then, the acquiring unit 203 may transmit the decoded product code to the list generating unit 211 of the server 21. Alternatively, the acquiring unit 203 may transmit the read product code to the list generating unit 211 of the server 21. Then, the list generating unit 211 may decode the received product code.

[0047] The acquisition unit 203 also acquires product information by, for example, identifying a product from an image of the product captured by an imaging device. The acquisition unit 203 also identifies a product by reading an image of the product captured in advance or an image of a picture of the product via the imaging device. In this way, the acquisition unit 203 acquires product information. Note that these images may include encoded codes such as one-dimensional codes or two-dimensional codes.

[0048] The acquiring unit 203 may acquire the product information by reading a tag to which an RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier) ​​is attached via a reading device. When an RFID is used, the reading device is an RFID reader. Note that the acquiring unit 203 may acquire the product information via a reading device by short-range wireless communication or the like, without being limited to RFID.

[0049] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 203 may acquire product information by selecting product information from the result of the product search. For example, the method of the product search is not particularly limited. The product search may be performed by characters. The product search may be performed by images. More specifically, for example, the acquisition unit 203 may acquire product information by selecting the product to be purchased by the customer from the displayed product images.

[0050] The acquiring unit 203 may acquire the product information by accepting input of a product code represented by numbers or letters via an input device. The input device may be a touch panel display, a keyboard capable of inputting numbers and letters, or the like.

[0051] Here, the registration process of product information will be described in detail using an example in which a product code attached to a product is read.

[0052] When the acquisition unit 203 acquires the product code, it transmits a registration request for the product corresponding to the product code to the server 21. For example, the registration request may include a customer ID, an ID of the settlement device 20, etc., in addition to the product code. When a transaction by a customer begins, the list generation unit 211 of the server 21 generates a new purchased product list based on the registration request. If a purchased product list already exists, the list generation unit 211 of the server 21 updates the purchased product list based on the registration request. In other words, the list generation unit 211 functions as a registration unit that registers product information. When the list generation unit 211 updates or generates the purchased product list, it transmits the purchased product list or information identifying the purchased product list to the settlement device 20.

[0053] The display control unit 204 causes the display device to display the product information registered in the purchased product list.

[0054] 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for registering a product. The display control unit 204 causes the display device to display a screen d001 based on the product information registered in the purchased product list.

[0055] Screen d001 includes, for example, information on the product name, purchase quantity, unit price, discount amount, and price for each registered product. Screen d001 also includes information on the total number of products, tax amount, and total price including tax.

[0056] The screen d001 may also have a "Cancel" button for each product. Cancellation of a product will be described later in the section on confirming the return of a canceled product.

[0057] Furthermore, the screen d001 may have various buttons such as a "call a store clerk" button and a "payment" button. The "call a store clerk" button is a button for calling a store clerk. The "payment" button is a button for moving to payment after registering a product. When the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "call a store clerk" button, the notification unit 206 notifies the store clerk. The method of notification by the notification unit 206 is not particularly limited. For example, the notification unit 206 may notify by output to an output device such as a lamp or buzzer that the settlement device 20 has. Alternatively, the notification unit 206 may notify the attendant terminal device 22 used by the store clerk or a terminal device that the store clerk has.

[0058] When the "Pay" button is pressed, the settlement device 20 moves to payment processing. The customer presses the "Pay" button. This allows the settlement device 20 to determine that registration of the product the customer is purchasing is complete. In the second embodiment, after product registration and before payment, the timing when the "Pay" button is pressed is given as an example.

[0059] After the registration of information on a product to be purchased by a customer has been completed through the customer's operation, the display control unit 204 displays a screen regarding a predetermined confirmation before making payment for the product. As described in the first embodiment, there are various examples of the predetermined confirmation. First, each functional unit will be described for each confirmation. Then, after describing each functional unit for each confirmation, an example of performing multiple different confirmations will be described. Performing multiple different confirmations means performing multiple different confirmations after the registration of information on a product to be purchased by a customer has been completed through the customer's operation, before making payment for the product.

[0060] [Customer Confirmation] Customer confirmations include confirmation regarding purchases of products for which tax rates are subject to change, and confirmation regarding purchases of bags, chopsticks, spoons, forks, etc., for which charges apply.

[0061] (Check if tax rate changes) For example, some countries may introduce reduced tax rates. For example, as of May 25, 2021, in Japan, the consumption tax rate is 8% (reduced tax rate) for food and beverages excluding alcoholic beverages and in-store eating and drinking. On the other hand, the consumption tax rate is 10% (standard tax rate) for food and beverages, including alcoholic beverages and in-store eating and drinking. For this reason, even for the same food and beverage, the tax rate differs between eating and drinking in a store and eating and drinking outside the store. Since the tax rate differs between eating and drinking in a store and other cases, the final price changes. For this reason, customers want to confirm the purchase of products whose tax rate will change before making a payment. That is, customers want to confirm whether the registered products will be eaten and drunk in the store before making a payment. Therefore, in the second embodiment, after registering the product, a confirmation is made as to whether the product will be eaten and drunk in the store before making a payment.

[0062] The display control unit 204 displays a screen for confirming whether the registered product will be consumed at the store after product registration and before payment. The timing after product registration and before payment is, for example, the timing when the "Payment" button is pressed. Specifically, when the "Payment" button is pressed, the display control unit 204 displays a screen for confirming whether the registered product will be consumed at the store. Whether the registered product will be consumed at the store may be set for each product.

[0063] Here, the product DB2101 may register whether or not a product is subject to a reduced tax rate for each registered product. Alternatively, whether or not a product is subject to a reduced tax rate may be determined based on the classification of the product in the product DB2101. Furthermore, the product DB2101 may register whether or not a product can be consumed in the store for each product. Alternatively, whether or not a product can be consumed in the store may be determined based on the classification of the product in the product DB2101.

[0064] For example, stores such as supermarkets, super centers, and home improvement centers may sell products that may be subject to the reduced tax rate and products that are not subject to the reduced tax rate, such as alcoholic beverages and products other than food and beverages. The identification unit 207 then identifies candidate products that are subject to the reduced tax rate and can be consumed in the store from the products registered in the purchase product list. The display control unit 204 may then display a screen for confirming whether the candidate products will be consumed in the store.

[0065] The candidate products may be food and beverage products designated in advance by the store clerk. For example, the store clerk may designate each product in advance, such as pasta being for take-out only, but pizza being available for either take-out or eating in the store. In this case, pizza is a candidate product, but pasta is not a candidate product, even though it is a food and beverage product.

[0066] For example, the reception unit 201 receives an input for confirming the product to be consumed or drunk at the store by an operation of a customer. The input method is not particularly limited as long as the input is made via an input / output device or an input device. The input / output device is, for example, a touch panel display. The input device is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a physical button or a switch, etc.

[0067] Fig. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for confirming whether or not a product will be eaten in a store. Screen d011 includes, for example, an "Eat in store" button for selecting whether to eat in the store, and a "Take out" button for selecting whether not to eat in the store. For example, when the "Take out" button is pressed, the reduced tax rate is applied to all candidate products that are subject to the reduced tax rate. On the other hand, when the "Eat in store" button is pressed, the reduced tax rate is not applied to all or some of the candidate products.

[0068] The selection of whether each of the candidate products will be eaten in the store or taken away may be made all at once, or may be made individually. When making a selection all at once, the reception unit 201 accepts the customer pressing either the "Eat in store" button or the "Take away" button. For example, when the "Eat in store" button is pressed, all of the candidate products are exempt from the reduced tax rate. On the other hand, when the "Take away" button is pressed, all of the candidate products are subject to the reduced tax rate. In this way, the reception unit 201 accepts inputs all at once in response to confirmation of whether the products will be eaten in the store.

[0069] Furthermore, when each candidate product is selected for each product as to whether it is to be eaten in the store or taken away, the reception unit 201 receives the customer's operation to press either the "Eat in store" button or the "Take away" button. Then, upon receiving the press of the "Eat in store" button, the display control unit 204 may display a screen for selecting an individual product to be eaten in the store from among the candidate products. Furthermore, the display control unit 204 may display a screen for selecting for each candidate product as to whether it is to be eaten in the store or taken away, without displaying a screen for selecting between the "Eat in store" button and the "Take away" button, such as screen d011.

[0070] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for selecting whether to eat or drink at a store for each product. For example, screen d012 includes information on the product name, the quantity eaten in the store, and the quantity of the product registered in the purchase product list for each candidate product. Note that beer is not subject to the reduced tax rate in FIG. 9, but is displayed. Also, in FIG. 9, screen d012 does not include information on tissue paper, one of the products shown in FIG. 7. For example, if the quantity eaten in the store is 0, the product is not eaten in the store. That is, the product is subject to the reduced tax rate. If the quantity eaten in the store is 1 or more, the product is eaten in the store. That is, the product equivalent to the quantity eaten in the store is not subject to the reduced tax rate, and the product equivalent to the quantity obtained by subtracting the quantity eaten in the store from the purchase quantity is subject to the reduced tax rate.

[0071] Screen d012 allows the customer to easily input which and how many of the candidate items he or she wishes to consume in the store.

[0072] For example, the reception unit 201 receives input of the quantity consumed in the store for each product. In FIG. 9, the quantity of bread consumed in the store is 1, and the quantity of tea consumed in the store is 1. The quantities of other products consumed in the store are 0. The screen d012 may also have a "Confirm" button. The reception unit 201 receives pressing of the "Confirm" button. When the reception unit 201 receives pressing of the "Confirm" button, it transmits the received information (hereinafter referred to as selected information) and a request for payment information to the server 21. The selected information includes, for example, information on the product consumed in the store (e.g., product ID) and information on the quantity consumed in the store.

[0073] For example, the settlement information generating unit 212 calculates a tax-excluded subtotal for all items in the purchase item list and a final price, which is the total amount including tax, based on the selection information, the purchase item list, and the item DB 2101. The settlement information generating unit 212 obtains the tax-excluded price of the item from the item DB 2101 based on the item information included in the selection information. The server 21 may store information such as a standard tax rate for consumption tax (e.g., 10%) and a reduced tax rate (e.g., 8%) applied to some items as tax rate information in the storage unit 214. Here, the standard tax rate is applied to items other than items subject to the reduced tax rate. Among items subject to the reduced tax rate, items selected as items for in-store consumption are applied to the standard tax rate. And, among items subject to the reduced tax rate, items not selected as items for in-store consumption are applied to the reduced tax rate. Whether or not an item is subject to the reduced tax rate may be identified based on the classification of the item in the item DB 2101. As described above, among the products subject to the reduced tax rate, the products selected as products to be consumed in the store are identified by the selection information.

[0074] For example, assume that the base price of a product is 192 yen. If this product is selected as a product to be consumed in the store, the product is not subject to the reduced tax rate (e.g., 8%) but is subject to the standard tax rate (e.g., 10%). Therefore, the settlement information generation unit 212 calculates the price including tax of this product, for example, 211 yen, which is a price including 10% consumption tax. If this product is not consumed in the store, the reduced tax rate is applied to this product. Therefore, the settlement information generation unit 212 calculates the price including tax of this product, for example, 207 yen, which is a price including 8% consumption tax. Based on the calculated tax-inclusive price, the settlement information generation unit 212 calculates the subtotal excluding tax of all products in the purchase product list and the total amount including tax (final price). Then, the settlement information generation unit 212 generates settlement information based on the final price. The settlement information includes at least information on the final price, for example. The settlement information may also include information on the price excluding tax and the subtotal for each product to be purchased. The settlement information generating unit 212 transmits the settlement information to the settlement device 20. Note that the method of calculating the tax-inclusive price and the final price is not particularly limited as long as an appropriate tax rate is applied to the tax-exclusive price of each product.

[0075] The purchased item list may include selection information received in association with the customer ID. The storage unit 214 may store the selection information separately from the purchased item list. If the purchased item list includes the unit price and purchase quantity, the applicable tax rate, and the price including tax for each registered item, the list generation unit 211 of the server 21 updates the applicable tax rate based on the selection information and the tax rate information. Furthermore, the list generation unit 211 may update the price including tax. Thereafter, the settlement information generation unit 212 may generate settlement information based on the updated list generation unit 211.

[0076] Also, there are cases where the payment method can be selected. When the payment method can be selected, the reception unit 201 may transmit selection information and a request for settlement information to the server 21 after selecting the payment method. For example, when the payment method can be selected, the display control unit 204 displays a screen on which the payment method can be selected. The payment method is not particularly limited. The payment methods include cash payment, credit card payment, code payment, point payment, debit payment, etc. FIG. 10 shows an example in which cash payment and credit card payment can be selected.

[0077] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for selecting a payment method. Screen d002 has selection buttons that allow the user to select an available payment method. Screen d002 has a "Cash" button and a "Credit" button. The "Cash" button allows the user to select cash payment. The "Credit" button allows the user to select credit payment.

[0078] The reception unit 201 may, for example, accept pressing of a "Cash" button by a customer. This causes the reception unit 201 to accept the selection of cash payment. On the other hand, the reception unit 201 may, for example, accept pressing of a "Credit" button by a customer. This causes the reception unit 201 to accept the selection of credit payment.

[0079] Screen d002 has, for example, a "Call a store clerk" button and a "Purchased items list" button. When the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "Purchased items list" button, the display control unit 204 displays the screen d001 shown in Fig. 7 described above. When the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "Call a store clerk" button, the notification unit 206 notifies the store clerk. As described above, the method of notification by the notification unit 206 is not particularly limited.

[0080] Furthermore, the display order of screens d011 and d012 and screen d002 is not particularly limited. In other words, there is no particular limit to which is performed first, confirmation or selection of a payment method. As described above, after confirmation using screens d011 and d012 is completed, selection of a payment method using screen d002 may be performed.

[0081] Next, upon receiving the settlement information, the display control unit 204 displays a screen related to the settlement. Then, the settlement unit 202 performs the settlement. Specifically, the settlement unit 202 performs the settlement when the condition for starting the settlement is satisfied by accepting an input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation. This condition may be that the settlement information has been received, as described in the first embodiment. Then, for example, the settlement unit 202 performs the settlement based on the settlement information. There is no particular limitation on the settlement, and any existing technology may be used.

[0082] The issuance control unit 205 also issues a receipt in response to the payment. The receipt may be an electronic receipt or a paper receipt.

[0083] In the case of a paper receipt, the issuance control unit 205 causes a printing device to print a receipt after the settlement is completed. The printing device here may be, for example, included in the settlement device 20. Alternatively, the printing device may be, for example, a device connected to the settlement device 20 via the communication network 23. The receipt may also include, for example, purchase price information, member information such as a member ID, and store-related information. The purchase price information included in the receipt includes product information such as the name and product code of each product, the quantity of the product purchased, the discount amount or discount amount, the discount rate, whether or not a coupon was used, the price excluding tax, the price including tax, the total purchase price (final price), the amount to be deposited, and the amount of change. The store-related information is, for example, the store name.

[0084] (Example of checking if tax rate has changed) 11 and 12 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of checking when the tax rate is changed in the settlement system 2 according to the second embodiment. The acquisition unit 203 acquires a product code from a product by a customer's operation (step S2101). In step S2101, as described above, the acquisition method by the acquisition unit 203 is not particularly limited. Also, as described above, the acquisition unit 203 acquires a product code as an example, but image data of the product may be used.

[0085] Then, the acquiring unit 203 transmits a registration request including the product code (step S2102). The list generating unit 211 updates the purchased product list based on the registration request (step S2103). The list generating unit 211 transmits the purchased product list (step S2104).

[0086] The display control unit 204 displays the purchased product list (step S2105). The reception unit 201 determines whether product registration is complete (step S2106). In step S2106, the reception unit 201 may determine whether product registration is complete based on whether the customer presses the "Pay" button. If product registration is not complete (step S2106: No), the settlement system 2 returns to step S2101.

[0087] When the product registration is completed (step S2106: Yes), the identification unit 207 identifies candidate products that are subject to the reduced tax rate and can be consumed in the store based on the purchased product list (step S2107). Then, the display control unit 204 displays a screen for confirming whether the candidate products can be consumed in the store (step S2108).

[0088] The reception unit 201 receives a selection regarding whether to eat or drink in the store (step S2109). As described above, the information received in step S2109 is selection information. As described above, the selection information includes, for example, information on the product to be eaten in the store (e.g., product ID) and information on the quantity to be eaten in the store. The reception unit 201 then transmits the selection information regarding the eating and drinking in the store and a request for payment information to the server (step S2110). Note that if a payment method can be selected, the reception unit 201 may receive the selection of the payment method before step S2110, for example.

[0089] The list generating unit 211 generates payment information based on the selection information and the purchase item list (step S2111). The list generating unit 211 transmits the payment information (step S2112). Next, the display control unit 204 displays a payment screen based on the payment information (step S2113).

[0090] The settlement unit 202 performs the settlement (step S2114). Next, the issuance control unit 205 issues a receipt (step S2115). When the settlement is performed, the settlement device 20 may notify the server 21 that the settlement has been completed. The sales management unit 213 may update the sales DB 2103 based on the settlement.

[0091] (Confirmation regarding the use of paid bags, etc.) First, confirmation regarding the purchase of a specific product will be described. The specific product is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a bag, chopsticks, spoon, fork, or container, which are charged for. Bags (shopping bags), spoons, forks, containers, etc. may be charged for. For example, bags, spoons, forks, containers, etc. may be charged for if they are made from a specific material. Also, bags, chopsticks, spoons, forks, containers, etc. may be charged for if the store manager or the like simply wants to charge for them.

[0092] In this confirmation, the use of the bag, chopsticks, spoons, and forks is confirmed by the customer's operation. The number of bags, chopsticks, spoons, forks, etc. required by the customer varies. For example, the number of bags varies depending on the product that the customer plans to purchase. Also, different types of bags, chopsticks, spoons, and forks may be provided. For example, in the case of bags, a store may provide bags of different sizes. Therefore, in this bag confirmation, the number of these may be confirmed. For example, in the case of bags, the final price paid by the customer varies depending on whether the bag is used, the size of the bag, the number of bags, etc. For this reason, the customer wants to confirm this before payment. Therefore, in the second embodiment, after the product is registered and before payment, confirmation is made regarding the use of products such as bags, chopsticks, spoons, and forks, which are charged. Note that the customer's use of bags, spoons, forks, etc. means that they are purchased. In the following explanation, a bag will be used as an example.

[0093] The display control unit 204 displays a screen for confirmation as to whether or not to use a paid bag. Specifically, when the "Pay" button is pressed, the display control unit 204 displays this confirmation screen. The displayed screen may enable the customer to specify the number of bags. Note that, in the case where there are multiple types of paid bags, such as different sizes or colors, the displayed screen may be a screen that enables the customer to check the number of bags to be used for each type.

[0094] Fig. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for confirming whether to use a paid bag. Screen d021 may include a message regarding the use of bags. In screen d021 of Fig. 13, plastic bags are bags for which a fee is charged. In Fig. 13, screen d021 includes a button for using a "5 yen bag," a button for using a "3 yen bag," and a "Do not use" button. When the "Do not use" button is pressed, reception unit 201 accepts that no type of bag will be used.

[0095] When the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "5 yen envelope" use button, the display control unit 204 may display on the screen d021 a small screen on which the number of 5 yen envelopes to be used can be input. The reception unit 201 may then receive the number of envelopes to be used. Alternatively, the reception unit 201 may count one envelope each time the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "5 yen envelope" use button.

[0096] The case where the use button for the "3 yen envelope" is pressed may be the same as the case where the use button for the "5 yen envelope" is pressed.

[0097] Although not shown, the display control unit 204 may display the received number of bags to be used by bag type. Hereinafter, the information received by the reception unit 201 will be referred to as bag selection information. The bag selection information includes, for example, information on the type of bag for which a fee is charged (for example, a product ID) and information on the number of bags to be used.

[0098] Although not shown, the screen d021 may have a "Confirm" button, etc. For example, when the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "Confirm" button, it transmits bag selection information and a request for payment information to the server 21.

[0099] Although not shown, the screen d021 may have a "Purchased Product List" button. When the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "Purchased Product List" button, the display control unit 204 displays the screen d001 shown in FIG.

[0100] When the payment method can be selected, similar to the example of confirmation of a change in tax rate, the reception unit 201 may transmit bag selection information and a request for payment information to the server 21 after receiving the selection of the payment method.

[0101] Next, the list generating unit 211 of the server 21 updates the purchased item list based on the information on the item (bag) and the purchase quantity included in the bag selection information. Then, the settlement information generating unit 212 generates settlement information based on the updated purchased item list. The method of generating settlement information by the settlement information generating unit 212 is as described in the example of checking when the tax rate changes.

[0102] Furthermore, the process after the settlement device 20 receives the settlement information from the server 21 may be the same as the example of confirmation when the tax rate is changed. Therefore, the following description will be omitted.

[0103] (Example of checking paid bags, etc.) 14 and 15 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of checking paid bags, etc., in the settlement system 2 according to the second embodiment. The acquisition unit 203 acquires a product code from a product by a customer's operation (step S2201). Then, the acquisition unit 203 transmits a registration request including the product code (step S2202). The list generation unit 211 updates the purchased product list based on the new registration request (step S2203). The list generation unit 211 transmits the purchased product list (step S2204).

[0104] The display control unit 204 displays the purchased product list (step S2205). The reception unit 201 determines whether product registration is complete (step S2206). In step S2206, the reception unit 201 may determine whether product registration is complete based on whether the "Pay" button is pressed by the customer. If product registration is not complete (step S2206: No), the settlement system 2 returns to step S2201.

[0105] When product registration is complete (step S2206: Yes), the display control unit 204 displays a screen for checking the bag (step S2207). The reception unit 201 receives input regarding the use of bags (step S2208). In step S2208, the reception unit 201 may receive input of the number of bags to be used for each type of bag. Also, in step S2208, the reception unit 201 may receive input of whether or not to use bags. As in screen d021 of FIG. 13, there may be a "Do not use" button. As described above, the information received in step S2208 is bag selection information.

[0106] The reception unit 201 transmits the received bag selection information and a request for payment information to the server 21 (step S2209). The list generation unit 211 updates the purchased item list based on the selection information (step S2210). Then, the payment information generation unit 212 generates payment information based on the updated purchased item list (step S2211). The payment information generation unit 212 transmits the generated payment information (step S2212). Next, the display control unit 204 displays a payment screen based on the payment information (step S2213).

[0107] The settlement unit 202 performs the settlement (step S2214). Next, the issuance control unit 205 issues a receipt (step S2215). When the settlement is performed, the settlement device 20 may notify the server 21 that the settlement has been completed. The sales management unit 213 may update the sales DB 2103 based on the settlement.

[0108] [Check by store clerk] Next, an example will be described in which the predetermined confirmation is a confirmation by a store clerk. Confirmation by a store clerk includes confirmation as to whether a product whose product registration has been cancelled has been collected, confirmation of the customer's age when purchasing an age confirmation product, etc.

[0109] (Confirmation of collection of cancelled products) First, confirmation as to whether a product whose product registration has been cancelled has been collected will be described. A customer may cancel a registered product. In such a case, the customer may intentionally or accidentally take the cancelled product out of the store. Intentional taking of the product includes crimes such as shoplifting. For this reason, the store clerk wants to ensure that the cancelled product is collected in order to prevent crime. However, it is time-consuming for the store clerk to go to the settlement device 20 and collect the product every time the product is cancelled. Therefore, in the second embodiment, after the product is registered and before payment, it is confirmed that the store clerk has collected the cancelled product.

[0110] First, the cancellation of a product on the screen d001 shown in FIG. 7 will be described. As described above, the screen d001 has a "Cancel" button for each product. When the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "Cancel" button, it transmits a request to the server 21 to cancel the information of the canceled product. In addition, when the purchase quantity is multiple, when the "Cancel" button is pressed, the display control unit 204 may display a screen on which the quantity of the product to be canceled can be input, superimposed on the screen d001. The reception unit 201 may then receive the quantity of the product to be canceled. The quantity of the product to be canceled is also referred to as the cancellation quantity. When the reception unit 201 receives the cancellation quantity, it transmits cancellation information including the product information and the cancellation quantity to the server 21.

[0111] The list generating unit 211 updates the purchased item list based on the cancellation information. For example, if the purchase quantity and the cancellation quantity are the same, the list generating unit 211 deletes the information of the canceled item from the purchased item list. On the other hand, if the purchase quantity is greater than the cancellation quantity, the list generating unit 211 sets the purchase quantity associated with the information of the item in the purchased item list to the quantity obtained by subtracting the cancellation quantity from the purchase quantity.

[0112] Here, the cancellation information may be stored in the storage unit 214 of the server 21 or in the storage unit 208 of the settlement device 20.

[0113] The notification unit 206 notifies the attendant terminal device 22 that the product has been cancelled. The notification method is not particularly limited. Specifically, the notification unit 206 notifies the attendant terminal device 22 that the product has been cancelled. More specifically, the notification unit 206 may notify the attendant terminal device 22 of information on the cancelled product (for example, a product ID or a product name) and the cancelled quantity. At this time, the notification unit 206 may notify the information on the cancelled product and the cancelled quantity together with an identifier for identifying the settlement device 20. The notification unit 206 may also notify the store clerk by turning on a lamp. Alternatively, the notification unit 206 may notify the store clerk by sounding a buzzer. The lamp or buzzer may be provided in the settlement device 20 or in a device different from the settlement device 20. When the lamp or buzzer is provided in a device different from the settlement device 20, the notification unit 206 notifies the different device that the product has been cancelled. Then, the different device that receives the notification from notification unit 206 controls a lamp or buzzer to notify the store clerk that the product has been canceled. When turning on a lamp or sounding a buzzer in settlement device 20, notification unit 206 notifies the store clerk in a manner that allows the store clerk to distinguish between the notification that the product has been canceled and the notification after the "call store clerk" button has been pressed. When a device other than settlement device 20 is equipped with a lamp or buzzer, the different device that receives the notification from notification unit 206 notifies the store clerk in a manner that allows the store clerk to distinguish between the notification that the product has been canceled and the notification after the "call store clerk" button has been pressed.

[0114] When receiving a notification indicating that a product has been canceled, the display control unit 221 displays a screen indicating that the canceled product needs to be collected on the display device of the attendant terminal device 22. For example, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 may display information on the canceled product (e.g., product name) and the canceled quantity for each settlement device 20.

[0115] FIG. 16 is an example of a screen displayed on the attendant terminal device 22 to show the cancellation status of items by payment device 20. Screen d031 includes information such as the register number, the name of the canceled item, and the quantity of the canceled item. In FIG. 16, the register number is an example of an identifier indicating the payment device 20. Screen d031 shows that one loaf of bread has been canceled at register number R2. This allows the store clerk to know which payment device 20 to collect the canceled item from by checking screen d031.

[0116] Also, the screen d031 is an example and is not particularly limited. For example, the display control unit 221 may display a screen (not shown) in which the canceled product and the quantity of the canceled product are superimposed on the settlement device 20 on the map of the store.

[0117] Next, the reception unit 201 accepts the pressing of the "Pay" button by the customer. When the "Pay" button is accepted, the notification unit 206 notifies the customer of the collection of the canceled products if there are any canceled products. Hereinafter, the canceled products may be abbreviated to "cancelled products". As a result, a store clerk is called to collect the products. The notification method is not particularly limited. Specifically, the notification unit 206 may notify the attendant terminal device 22 to call the store clerk. The notification unit 206 may also notify the customer to call the store clerk by turning on a lamp. Alternatively, the notification unit 206 may notify the customer to call the store clerk by sounding a buzzer. The lamp or buzzer may be provided in the settlement device 20 or in a device different from the settlement device 20. If a lamp or buzzer is provided in a device different from the settlement device 20, the notification unit 206 notifies the different device that the product has been canceled. Then, the different device that has received the notification from the notification unit 206 controls a lamp or a buzzer to notify the store clerk that the product has been cancelled. When turning on a lamp or sounding a buzzer in the settlement device 20, the notification unit 206 notifies the store clerk in such a way that the store clerk can distinguish between the notification that the product has been cancelled, the notification to call a store clerk after the "Payment" button is pressed, and the notification to call a store clerk after the "Call a Store Clerk" button is pressed. For example, in the case of a lamp, the notification unit 206 may light up the three notifications in different colors. When a lamp or a buzzer is provided in a device different from the settlement device 20, the different device that has received the notification from the notification unit 206 notifies the store clerk in such a way that the store clerk can distinguish between the notification that the product has been cancelled, the notification to call a store clerk after the "Payment" button is pressed, and the notification to call a store clerk after the "Call a Store Clerk" button is pressed.

[0118] Upon receiving the notification to call a store clerk, the display control unit 221 causes the display device of the attendant terminal device 22 to display a screen indicating that the canceled items need to be immediately collected. Although not shown, the screen may include an identifier for identifying the settlement device 20, item information such as the name of the canceled item, and information on the quantity of the canceled items. The screen may include a message to direct the user to the settlement device 20. Furthermore, the display control unit 221 may display a screen in which the name of the canceled item and a message to direct a store clerk to the settlement device 20 are superimposed on the settlement device 20 on a map of the store.

[0119] Furthermore, when the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "Pay" button, the display control unit 204 displays a screen for a store clerk to confirm whether or not to collect the canceled products if there are any canceled products. For example, an example of the screen is shown in FIG. 17.

[0120] 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen indicating that a store clerk is being called when a canceled item is present. When the reception unit 201 receives a press of the "Payment" button, the display control unit 204 displays a screen d032 when a canceled item is present. The screen d032 includes a message asking the customer to wait.

[0121] Here, in order for the settlement device 20 to proceed to the settlement process from screen d032, the store clerk completes the collection of the canceled products and inputs an input regarding confirmation of the collection. The input regarding the confirmation may be received by the settlement device 20 or by the attendant terminal device 22. An example in which the input is received by the attendant terminal device 22 will be described in a modified example.

[0122] First, an example of inputting confirmation information in the settlement device 20 will be described. A store clerk goes to the settlement device 20 and collects the product. Then, the reception unit 201 of the settlement device 20 accepts an input for confirming that the product has been collected by the operation of the store clerk. The method of accepting the input for confirmation can be changed in various ways. More specifically, for example, the reception unit 201 accepts an input of a predetermined code by the operation of the store clerk. The predetermined code is not particularly limited. The predetermined code is called a confirmation code. The confirmation code may be a common code. When it is desired to record which store clerk has confirmed the item, the confirmation code may be an identifier (for example, a store clerk ID) that identifies the store clerk. When a store clerk ID or the like is used, a store clerk DB or the like is stored in the storage unit 214. In addition, the input method is not particularly limited. The reception unit 201 may accept the confirmation code by reading a code such as a barcode in which the confirmation code is encoded using a reading device and decoding the code. In addition, the reception unit 201 may acquire the confirmation code by short-range wireless communication from an IC (Integrated Circuit) card by the operation of the store clerk. Furthermore, the reception unit 201 may receive a confirmation code input by a store clerk through an input device such as a keyboard.

[0123] Furthermore, the display control unit 204 may display a screen for accepting a confirmation code as a screen for confirmation by the store clerk to collect the canceled product. If the screen for accepting the confirmation code is displayed immediately after the "Payment" button is touched, the customer will be able to operate it. Therefore, to prevent the customer from operating it but allow the store clerk to operate it, the reception unit 201 may accept input of a release code for displaying the screen for accepting the confirmation code before accepting the confirmation code. Then, when the release code is entered, the display control unit 204 displays a screen for accepting the confirmation code. The release code may be the same as the confirmation code or may be different.

[0124] Fig. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting input of a confirmation code. The screen d033 includes information on the canceled product and the quantity of the canceled product. The screen d033 also includes a message prompting input of a code. The accepting unit 201 may further accept input of a confirmation code. The method of entering the confirmation code is as described above.

[0125] Furthermore, after inputting the release code, the display control unit 204 may display a screen having a "Confirm" button that allows the user to confirm that the canceled items have been collected, instead of inputting a confirmation code. In this case, a screen not shown may include information on the canceled items and the quantity of the canceled items, similar to screen d033. The reception unit 201 receives input that the canceled items have been collected by pressing the "Confirm" button by the store clerk.

[0126] When the payment method can be selected, similar to the example of confirmation by the customer, the reception unit 201 may transmit a request for settlement information to the server 21 after receiving the selection of the payment method.

[0127] Next, the list generating unit 211 of the server 21 generates the settlement information based on the purchased item list. The method of generating the settlement information by the settlement information generating unit 212 is as described in the example of confirmation by the customer.

[0128] Furthermore, the process after the settlement device 20 receives the settlement information from the server 21 may be similar to the example of confirmation by the customer. Therefore, the following description will be omitted.

[0129] (Example of operation for confirming the collection of canceled products) 19 and 20 are flowcharts showing an example of an operation for confirming the collection of a canceled product in the settlement system 2 according to the second embodiment. The acquisition unit 203 acquires a product code from the product by a customer's operation (step S2301). Then, the acquisition unit 203 transmits a registration request including the product code (step S2302). The list generation unit 211 updates the purchased product list based on the new registration request (step S2303). The list generation unit 211 transmits the updated purchased product list (step S2304).

[0130] The display control unit 204 displays the updated purchased item list (step S2305). Next, the reception unit 201 determines whether a cancellation operation for the item has been performed (step S2306). In step S2306, for example, the reception unit 201 determines whether a cancellation operation for the item has been performed based on whether a "cancel" button for the item has been operated. The reception unit 201 may determine that a cancellation operation for the item has been performed when the "cancel" button for the item is pressed. The reception unit 201 may also receive the cancellation quantity. If it is determined that a cancellation operation for the item has not been performed (step S2306: No), the settlement device 20 proceeds to step S2312. On the other hand, if it is determined that a cancellation operation for the item has been performed (step S2306: Yes), the reception unit 201 transmits cancellation information for the item (step S2307). The cancellation information includes, for example, information on the item to be canceled (for example, item ID) and the cancellation quantity.

[0131] The list generation unit 211 updates the purchased item list based on the cancellation information (step S2308). Next, the list generation unit 211 transmits the purchased item list (step S2309). Next, the display control unit 204 displays the updated purchased item list (step S2310).

[0132] Then, the notification unit 206 notifies the attendant terminal device 22 that there is a canceled product (step S2311). In step S2311, the notification unit 206 may transmit information in which an identifier for identifying the settlement device 20 is associated with the cancellation information to the attendant terminal device 22. Then, for example, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 displays that a cancellation operation for the product has been performed in the settlement device 20 indicated by the identifier. This allows the store clerk to easily understand that the product must be collected in the settlement device 20 that sent the notification by checking the screen of the attendant terminal device 22. Note that step S2311 may be performed after step S2307 and before step S2310. Also, step S2311 may be performed after the case of Yes in step S2306 and before step S2307.

[0133] Next, the reception unit 201 determines whether the registration of the product is complete (step S2312). In step S2312, the reception unit 201 may determine whether the registration of the product is complete based on whether the "Pay" button is pressed by the customer. If the registration of the product is not complete (step S2312: No), the settlement system 2 returns to step S2101.

[0134] If the registration of the product is completed (step S2312: Yes), the notification unit 206 determines whether any product has been canceled (step S2313). If no product has been canceled (step S2313: No), the settlement device 20 proceeds to step S2317.

[0135] On the other hand, if there is a canceled product (step S2313: Yes), the notification unit 206 issues a notification to call a store clerk (step S2314). As described above, the notification method is not particularly limited. In step S2314, for example, the notification unit 206 notifies the attendant terminal device 22 to have the store clerk collect the product. For example, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 causes the display device of the attendant terminal device 22 to display a screen indicating that the store clerk needs to immediately collect the canceled product at the settlement device 20 that sent the notification. More specifically, for example, the display control unit 221 may display a screen including information on the identifier of the settlement device 20 that sent the notification and the name of the product to be collected by the store clerk. For example, the display control unit 221 may display a screen including the name of the product to be collected by the store clerk and a message to direct the store clerk to the settlement device 20. In step S2314, the notification unit 206 may turn on a lamp of the settlement device 20. Also, in step S2314, the notification unit 206 may sound a buzzer of the settlement device 20. The notification methods may be combined. The display control unit 204 displays a screen regarding confirmation of product collection (step S2315). The reception unit 201 receives an input regarding confirmation of product collection by an operation of the store clerk (step S2316).

[0136] The reception unit 201 requests payment information (step S2317). Next, the payment information generation unit 212 generates payment information based on the purchased item list (step S2318). The payment information generation unit 212 transmits the generated payment information (step S2319). Next, the display control unit 204 displays a payment screen based on the payment information (step S2320).

[0137] The settlement unit 202 performs the settlement (step S2321). Next, the issuance control unit 205 issues a receipt (step S2322). When the settlement is performed, the settlement device 20 may notify the server 21 that the settlement has been completed. The sales management unit 213 may update the sales DB 2103 based on the settlement.

[0138] (Age Verification) Next, age verification will be explained. Stores may be penalized if they fail to verify the customer's age when selling products that require verification of the customer's age. For this reason, store clerks must verify the customer's age when the customer purchases an age verification product. However, it is time-consuming for the store clerk to go to the settlement device 20 and verify the customer's age every time an age verification product is registered. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the store clerk verifies the customer's age after the product is registered and before payment is made.

[0139] The acquiring unit 203 acquires a product code from the product, and then transmits a registration request including the product code.

[0140] The list generation unit 211 of the server 21 updates the purchased item list based on the registration request. After updating or generating the purchased item list, the list generation unit 211 transmits the purchased item list or information identifying the purchased item list to the settlement device 20.

[0141] If the newly registered product is an age verification product, the notification unit 206 notifies the attendant terminal device 22 that the age verification product has been registered. Specifically, for example, the notification unit 206 may notify the attendant terminal device 22 that the age verification product has been registered. More specifically, the notification unit 206 may notify the attendant terminal device 22 of information on the age verification product (for example, the name of the product). At this time, the notification unit 206 may notify the settlement device 20 of an identifier for identifying the settlement device 20 together with the information on the age verification product. In addition, the notification unit 206 may notify the store clerk that the age verification product has been registered by turning on a lamp. Alternatively, the notification unit 206 may notify the store clerk that the age verification product has been registered by sounding a buzzer. The lamp or buzzer may be provided in the settlement device 20 or in a device different from the settlement device 20. If a device other than the settlement device 20 is equipped with a lamp or buzzer, the notification unit 206 notifies the different device that the product has been canceled. Then, upon receiving the notification from the notification unit 206, the different device controls the lamp or buzzer to notify the store clerk that the age verification product has been registered.

[0142] When turning on a lamp or sounding a buzzer in settlement device 20, notification unit 206 notifies the clerk in a manner that allows the clerk to distinguish between the notification that an age verification product has been registered and the notification to call a clerk after the "call clerk" button is pressed. Also, if a device other than settlement device 20 is equipped with a lamp or buzzer, the different device that receives the notification from notification unit 206 notifies the clerk in a manner that allows the clerk to distinguish between the notification that an age verification product has been registered and the notification after the "call clerk" button is pressed.

[0143] When receiving a notification that the age verification product has been registered, the display control unit 221 displays a screen indicating that age verification is required. The display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 displays information on the age verification product (e.g., product name) for each settlement device 20.

[0144] 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen related to age verification in the attendant terminal device 22. The screen d041 includes information indicating the name of the age verification product for each settlement device 20 in which the age verification product is registered. As described above, the register number is an example of an identifier indicating the settlement device 20.

[0145] The screen d041 may include information on the presence or absence of an age verification product for each settlement device 20. That is, the screen d041 may display the register number of the settlement device 20 and the presence or absence of an age verification product.

[0146] Furthermore, the display control unit 204 causes the display device of the settlement device 20 to display the product information registered in the purchased product list. Here, the settlement device 20 may store in the storage unit 208 that the age verification product has been registered.

[0147] Next, the reception unit 201 accepts pressing of the "Payment" button. When the "Payment" button is accepted, the notification unit 206 issues a notification to call a store clerk if an age verification product is registered. For example, the notification unit 206 may notify the attendant terminal device 22 that age verification by a store clerk is required. Alternatively, the notification unit 206 may issue a notification to call a store clerk by turning on a lamp. Alternatively, the notification unit 206 may issue a notification to call a store clerk by sounding a buzzer. The lamp or buzzer may be provided in the settlement device 20 or in a device different from the settlement device 20. When a lamp or buzzer is provided in a device different from the settlement device 20, the notification unit 206 notifies the different device that age verification is required. Then, the different device that receives the notification from the notification unit 206 may issue a notification to call a store clerk in the settlement device 20 by controlling the lamp or buzzer.

[0148] When turning on the lamp or sounding the buzzer of the settlement device 20, the notification unit 206 notifies the clerk in such a way that the clerk can distinguish between the notification that the age verification product has been registered, the notification to call a clerk after the "Payment" button is pressed, and the notification to call a clerk after the "Call clerk" button is pressed. For example, in the case of a lamp, the notification unit 206 may light up the three notifications in different colors. Also, when a lamp or buzzer is provided in a device other than the settlement device 20, the other device that receives the notification from the notification unit 206 notifies the clerk in such a way that the clerk can distinguish between the notification that the age verification product has been registered, the notification to call a clerk after the "Payment" button is pressed, and the notification to call a clerk after the "Call clerk" button is pressed.

[0149] When a notification to call a store clerk is received after the "Pay" button is pressed, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 displays a screen indicating that age verification will be performed on the display device of the attendant terminal device 22. Although not shown, the screen may include information such as an identifier that identifies the settlement device 20 and the product name of the age verification product. The screen may also include a message to direct the customer to the settlement device 20. The display control unit 221 may also display a screen on the settlement device 20 on the store map, superimposed with the product name of the age verification product and a message to direct the store clerk to the settlement device 20.

[0150] When the "Pay" button is pressed, if an age verification product is registered, the display control unit 204 causes the display device of the settlement device 20 to display a screen regarding age verification. The screen may be a screen indicating that a store clerk is being called. Alternatively, the screen may be a screen for receiving input regarding age verification by the store clerk.

[0151] 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen indicating that a store clerk is being called when an age verification product is registered. When the "Payment" button is pressed, the display control unit 204 displays a screen d042 when an age verification product is present. The screen d042 includes a message asking the customer to wait.

[0152] Here, for example, in order for the settlement device 20 to proceed to processing of the payment from screen d042, the store clerk confirms the age of the customer. After that, the store clerk performs input related to the age confirmation. The input related to this confirmation may be received by the settlement device 20 or by the attending terminal device 22. An example of the input being received by the attending terminal device 22 will be described in a modified example.

[0153] An example of input related to confirmation at the settlement device 20 will be described. A store clerk goes to the settlement device 20 and confirms the age of the customer. Then, the reception unit 201 of the settlement device 20 accepts input related to the confirmation of the age through an operation by the store clerk. The method of accepting the input related to confirmation can be changed in various ways. The reception method may be the same as the method of accepting input related to the confirmation of product withdrawal.

[0154] Fig. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting input of a confirmation code. The screen d043 includes information on the age verification product and the purchase quantity. The screen d043 also includes a message prompting input of the confirmation code. The accepting unit 201 may further accept input of the confirmation code. The method of entering the confirmation code is as described above.

[0155] After the unlock code is entered, the display control unit 204 may display a screen having a "Confirm" button instead of the input of the confirmation code. In this case, a screen not shown may include information on the age confirmation product and the purchase quantity, similar to screen d043. The reception unit 201 receives the input that the age has been confirmed by pressing the "Confirm" button by the store clerk.

[0156] When the payment method can be selected, similar to the example of confirmation by the customer, the reception unit 201 may transmit a request for settlement information to the server 21 after receiving the selection of the payment method.

[0157] Next, the list generating unit 211 of the server 21 generates the settlement information based on the purchased item list. The method of generating the settlement information by the settlement information generating unit 212 is as described in the example of confirmation by the customer.

[0158] Furthermore, the process after the settlement device 20 receives the settlement information from the server 21 may be similar to the example of confirmation by the customer. Therefore, the following description will be omitted.

[0159] 24 and 25 are flowcharts showing an example of the age verification operation of the settlement system 2 according to the second embodiment. The acquisition unit 203 acquires a product code from a product by a customer's operation (step S2401). Then, the acquisition unit 203 transmits a registration request including the product code (step S2402). The list generation unit 211 updates the purchased product list based on the new registration request (step S2403). The list generation unit 211 transmits the updated purchased product list (step S2404).

[0160] The notification unit 206 judges whether the registered product is an age verification product (step S2405). If the registered product is not an age verification product (step S2405: No), the display control unit 204 proceeds to step S2407. If the registered product is an age verification product (step S2405: Yes), the notification unit 206 notifies the attendant terminal device 22 that the age verification product has been registered (step S2406). Then, for example, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 displays that the age verification product has been registered at the settlement device 20. This allows the store clerk to easily understand that the customer's age must be verified at the settlement device 20 that sent the notification by checking the screen of the attendant terminal device 22.

[0161] The display control unit 204 displays the purchased product list (step S2407). The reception unit 201 determines whether the product registration is complete (step S2408). The reception unit 201 may determine whether the product registration is complete based on whether the "Pay" button is pressed. If the product registration is not complete (step S2408: No), the settlement system 2 returns to step S2401. If the product registration is complete (step S2408: Yes), the notification unit 206 determines whether there is an age verification product (step S2409). The notification unit 206 issues a notification to call a store clerk (step S2410). As described above, the notification method is not particularly limited. In step S2410, the notification unit 206 notifies the attendant terminal device 22, for example, that the store clerk needs to perform age verification at the settlement device 20. For example, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 causes the display device of the attendant terminal device 22 to display a screen indicating that a store clerk must immediately verify the age at the settlement device 20 that sent the notification. More specifically, for example, the display control unit 221 may display a screen including an identifier of the settlement device 20 that sent the notification and a message to direct the store clerk to the settlement device 20 for age verification. In step S2410, the notification unit 206 may turn on a lamp of the settlement device 20. Also, in step S2410, the notification unit 206 may sound a buzzer of the settlement device 20. Note that the notification methods may be combined.

[0162] The display control unit 204 displays a screen for age verification (step S2411). The reception unit receives input for age verification by an operation of a store clerk (step S2412). The reception unit 201 requests payment information (step S2413). Next, the payment information generation unit 212 generates payment information based on the purchased item list (step S2414). The payment information generation unit 212 transmits the generated payment information (step S2415). Next, the display control unit 204 displays a screen for payment based on the payment information (step S2416).

[0163] The settlement unit 202 performs the settlement (step S2417). Next, the issuance control unit 205 issues a receipt (step S2418). When the settlement is performed, the settlement device 20 may notify the server 21 that the settlement has been completed. The sales management unit 213 may update the sales DB 2103 based on the settlement.

[0164] (Multiple checks) As described above, there are a number of types of predetermined confirmation, so in the second embodiment, a number of different confirmations may be performed after product registration and before payment.

[0165] Here, the combination of different confirmations is not particularly limited. For example, the settlement device 20 may perform the two confirmations by the customer described above. Or, for example, the settlement device 20 may perform the two confirmations by the store clerk described above. Or, the settlement device 20 may perform one or more confirmations by the customer and one or more confirmations by the store clerk.

[0166] The display control unit 204 displays a screen related to each of the different confirmations. For example, the display control unit 204 may display one screen on which the different confirmations can be performed. That is, the confirmations may be performed collectively on one screen. The predetermined order, which is the order of the confirmations, is not particularly limited. Then, the receiving unit 201 receives an input corresponding to the different confirmations.

[0167] Furthermore, the display control unit 204 may display screens corresponding to each confirmation in a predetermined order. More specifically, the display control unit 204 displays screens related to each of the different confirmations in a predetermined order. The reception unit 201 also receives inputs corresponding to the different confirmations in a predetermined order. The predetermined order may be specified by an administrator or a store clerk of the settlement system 2. Here, after the reception unit 201 receives inputs related to the displayed screen, the display control unit 204 may display a screen related to the next confirmation in the predetermined order.

[0168] In this way, different checks can be carried out together before payment is made.

[0169] Then, the settlement unit 202 performs the settlement after accepting all the multiple confirmation inputs. That is, the settlement unit 202 performs the settlement after accepting the last confirmation input in a predetermined order. Here, the settlement method is as described above, and a detailed description will be omitted.

[0170] An example will be described in which four checks are performed after product registration and before payment: checking paid bags, checking in-store food and drink, checking age, and checking collection of canceled products. In such a case, the checks may be performed in the order that is estimated to cause the greatest loss to the store. Specifically, the settlement system 2 may perform each check in the following order: age check, checking collection of canceled products, checking paid bags, etc., and checking in-store food and drink.

[0171] Also, for example, when the multiple types of confirmation include age confirmation and confirmation of collection of the canceled product, the notification unit 206 may distinguishably issue a notification to call a store clerk for age confirmation and a notification to call a store clerk for confirmation of collection of the canceled product. For example, the notification unit 206 distinguishably issues a notification to call a store clerk for age confirmation and a notification to call a store clerk for confirmation of collection of the canceled product to the attendant terminal device 22. Then, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 may display, for example, a screen indicating which confirmation the store clerk is being called for. Also, for example, when a lamp is used, the notification unit 206 may make the lighting color of the lamp different for the two notifications. Also, for example, the notification unit 206 may distinguishably issue a notification to call a store clerk for age confirmation, a notification to call a store clerk for confirmation of collection of the canceled product, and a notification to call a store clerk for both age confirmation and confirmation of collection of the canceled product. For example, when a lamp is used, the notification unit 206 may make the lighting color of the lamp different for the three types. In addition, if a device other than the settlement device 20 is equipped with a lamp or buzzer, the different device that receives a notification from the notification unit 206 may perform each notification in a distinguishable manner.

[0172] Alternatively, for example, the notification unit 206 may issue a notification to call a store clerk for age verification and a notification to call a store clerk for confirmation of collection of the canceled product without distinguishing between them. For example, the notification unit 206 issues a notification to simply call a store clerk to the attendant terminal device. Then, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 may, for example, display a screen on the display device of the attendant terminal device 22 indicating that a store clerk has been called at the settlement device 20 that is the source of the notification. For example, in the case where a lamp is used, the notification unit 206 issues a notification to call a store clerk by lighting the lamp in the same color regardless of the notification. Note that, in the case where a lamp or a buzzer is provided in a device other than the settlement device 20, the other device that receives the notification from the notification unit 20 may issue the notification without distinguishing between the notifications.

[0173] The input related to age verification by a store clerk's operation and the input related to confirmation of collection of the canceled product by a store clerk's operation may be performed separately. Also, the input related to age verification by a store clerk's operation and the input related to confirmation of collection of the canceled product by a store clerk's operation may be performed simultaneously. For example, when both age verification and confirmation of collection of the canceled product are performed, the reception unit 201 may receive the input related to both confirmations by receiving the confirmation code once.

[0174] The confirmation code for age verification and the confirmation code for confirmation of return of canceled products may be the same or different. Also, both confirmation codes may be codes specific to each store clerk. Alternatively, one confirmation code may be a code specific to each store clerk, and the other confirmation code may be a code common to all store clerks, or both confirmation codes may be a code common to all store clerks.

[0175] Also, d032 shown in Fig. 17 and d042 shown in Fig. 22 may be one common screen. For example, when the reception unit 201 receives the above-mentioned release code, it may receive inputs related to each confirmation in order. For example, when the reception unit 201 receives the above-mentioned release code, it may receive inputs related to both confirmations all at once.

[0176] As described above, in the second embodiment, the settlement system 2 accepts input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation after product registration and before payment. Then, when the settlement system 2 accepts the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation, it performs the payment. This allows the predetermined confirmation to be performed without hassle before payment.

[0177] In addition, the predetermined confirmation may be a plurality of different confirmations. This allows the settlement system 2 to perform a final, collective confirmation before settlement, thereby saving the customer and store clerk time.

[0178] If the predetermined confirmation is a plurality of different confirmations, the checkout system 2 accepts inputs corresponding to each of the plurality of different confirmations after registering the product and before payment. Then, the checkout system 2 performs payment after accepting all inputs. This allows the checkout system 2 to perform a final, collective confirmation before payment, thereby reducing the effort of the customer and store clerk.

[0179] In addition, the settlement system 2 accepts inputs corresponding to each of the different confirmations in a predetermined order, which allows the settlement system 2 to perform each confirmation in a predetermined order, such as in the order in which the store's damage is estimated to be the greatest.

[0180] Next, the predetermined confirmation is explained regarding the confirmation of paid shopping bags, etc. Before or during product registration, customers may wish to change whether or not paid shopping bags are available and the number of bags. The final price changes depending on whether or not paid shopping bags are available and the number of bags. Therefore, after product registration and before payment, the settlement system 2 displays a screen regarding the confirmation of paid shopping bags, and accepts input regarding the confirmation of paid shopping bags through the customer's operation. This allows the customer to easily confirm whether or not paid shopping bags are available and the number of bags after product registration and before payment. Note that the same effect can be obtained by performing the same confirmation not only for paid shopping bags but also for paid spoons, chopsticks, forks, containers, etc.

[0181] Next, confirmation regarding in-store eating and drinking will be explained. As mentioned above, if a product is eaten in the store, the tax rate changes. For this reason, the final price changes depending on whether or not it is eaten in the store, and these must be determined before payment. Therefore, after product registration and before payment, the settlement system 2 displays a screen regarding confirmation of in-store eating and drinking, and accepts input regarding confirmation of in-store eating and drinking through the customer's operation. This allows the customer to confirm whether or not they will eat or drink in the store after product registration and before payment.

[0182] In addition, after product registration and before payment, the payment system 2 identifies products that can be consumed in the store. The payment system 2 then displays a screen for confirming whether the identified product can be consumed in the store. This allows the customer to easily select whether the product can be consumed in the store.

[0183] Next, confirmation of the collection of canceled products will be described. As mentioned above, a customer may cancel a registered product. In such a case, the customer may intentionally or accidentally take the canceled product out of the store. The store clerk wants to ensure that the canceled product is collected in order to prevent crime. However, it is time-consuming for the store clerk to go to the settlement device 20 and collect the product every time a product is canceled. Therefore, after the product is registered and before payment, the settlement system 2 displays a screen for confirmation of product collection, and accepts input for confirmation of product collection by the store clerk. This allows the store clerk to collect the canceled products all at once. Therefore, the settlement system 2 can save the store clerk time.

[0184] Next, age verification will be described. As mentioned above, a customer may register a product that requires age verification, such as alcohol. In such a case, the store clerk must verify the age of the customer who is the purchaser. However, it is time-consuming for the store clerk to go to the settlement device 20 and verify the age each time an age verification product is registered. Therefore, the settlement system 2 notifies the store clerk when an age verification product is registered. Then, after the product is registered and before payment, the settlement system 2 accepts input corresponding to the age verification by the store clerk's operation. This allows the store clerk to verify the age of the customer after the product is registered and before payment. Therefore, the settlement system 2 can save the store clerk time.

[0185] The second embodiment is not limited to the above-mentioned example, and various modifications are possible. In addition, each functional unit of the settlement device 20 and the server 21 may be realized by one device. For example, the settlement system 2 has the settlement device 20, and the settlement device 20 may have all of the functional units of the settlement device 20 and the functional units of the server 21 shown in the figure. Alternatively, each functional unit of the settlement device 20 may be realized by multiple devices. Each function of the server 21 may be realized by multiple devices. For example, the server 21 may be one server 21 as shown in FIG. 3, or may be composed of multiple servers 21. Examples of the multiple servers 21 include a database server, a core server, a POS (Point Of Sales) server, and a PLU (Price Look Up) server.

[0186] The settlement system 2 may be configured so that the server 21 has some of the functional units of the settlement device 20. The settlement system 2 may be configured so that the settlement device 20 has some of the functional units of the server 21. In each screen, each button is a GUI (Graphic User Interface) button, but the type of button is not particularly limited. In each screen, the position of each button and the position of each display field are not particularly limited. Buttons, information, display fields, etc. not shown may be added to each screen. In addition, the background color of the screen, etc. may be changed.

[0187] Next, a modification of the second embodiment will be described.

[0188] [Modification 1 of the second embodiment] In the second embodiment, the list generation unit 211 of the server 21 updates the purchased item list and transmits it to the settlement device 20. Then, the display control unit 204 of the settlement device 20 displays the received purchased item list.

[0189] In the first modification, the list generation unit 211 of the server 21 may transmit an identifier for identifying the purchased item list to the settlement device 20. Then, the display control unit 204 of the settlement device 20 may obtain the purchased item list corresponding to the identifier for identifying the purchased item list from the purchased item list DB 2102. Then, the display control unit 204 of the settlement device 20 may display the read-out purchased item list. The first modification is useful when the server 21 is divided into multiple different servers, such as a database server and a POS server.

[0190] [Modification 2 of the second embodiment] In the second embodiment, the settlement information generation unit 212 of the server 21 calculates the total amount including tax (final price) and transmits settlement information including the final price to the settlement device 20. Then, the settlement unit 202 of the settlement device 20 makes a settlement based on the received settlement information.

[0191] In the second modification, the settlement information generation unit 212 may store the settlement information in the storage unit 214, and instead of transmitting the settlement information, may transmit an identifier that identifies the settlement information. Then, the settlement unit of the settlement device 20 may obtain the settlement information corresponding to the received identifier from the storage unit 214 of the server 21. Then, the settlement unit 202 of the settlement device 20 performs settlement based on the obtained settlement information. This modification is useful when the server 21 is divided into multiple different servers, such as a database server and a POS server.

[0192] [Third Modification of the Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the server 21 has the settlement information generation unit 212. In this example, the settlement information generation unit 212 of the server 21 calculates the total amount including tax (final price) and transmits settlement information including the final price to the settlement device 20. Then, the settlement device 20 makes a settlement based on the final price calculated by the server 21.

[0193] In the third modification, the settlement device 20 may have a settlement information generation unit 212. That is, the settlement information generation unit 212 of the settlement device 20 may calculate the total amount (final price) of the prices including tax, including the consumption tax, based on the purchased item list.

[0194] [Fourth Modification of the Second Embodiment] Next, in the second embodiment, an example is described in which the receipt of input regarding confirmation that the canceled goods have been collected is performed by the settlement device 20. In the fourth modification, an example is described in which the receipt of input regarding confirmation that the canceled goods have been collected is performed by the attendant terminal device 22. When the "Pay" button is pressed on the settlement device 20, the display control unit 204 of the settlement device 20 displays a screen d032 shown in FIG. 17. Then, when the "Pay" button is pressed on the settlement device 20, the display control unit 221 of the attendant terminal device 22 may display a screen d033 shown in FIG. 18.

[0195] For example, when the screen d033 shown in Fig. 18 is displayed on the attending terminal device 22, the store clerk heads to the settlement device 20. When the store clerk collects the canceled product, the store clerk returns to the attending terminal device 22. Then, a reception unit (not shown) of the attending terminal device 22 receives an input by the store clerk to confirm that the product has been collected. The method of receiving the confirmation input can be changed in various ways, similar to the case where the input is received by the settlement device 20.

[0196] Furthermore, if there are two or more store clerks, when one store clerk goes to collect an item and another store clerk confirms that the other store clerk has collected the item, an input regarding confirmation of product collection may be made to attendant terminal device 22. By having a reception unit (not shown) of attendant terminal device 22 receive an input of confirmation of product collection, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the customer having to operate the device.

[0197] [Fifth Modification of the Second Embodiment] Next, in the second embodiment, an example in which input regarding age verification is accepted by the settlement device 20 is described. In the fifth modification, an example in which input regarding age verification is accepted by the attendance terminal device 22 is described. When the "Payment" button is pressed on the settlement device 20, the display control unit 204 of the settlement device 20 displays a screen d042 shown in FIG. 22. Then, when the "Payment" button is pressed on the settlement device 20, the display control unit 221 of the attendance terminal device 22 may display a screen d043 shown in FIG. 23.

[0198] For example, when the screen d043 shown in FIG. 23 is displayed on the attending terminal device 22, the store clerk heads to the settlement device 20. The store clerk confirms the age of the customer. The store clerk then returns to the attending terminal device 22. A reception section (not shown) of the attending terminal device 22 accepts an input by the store clerk indicating that the customer's age has been confirmed. The method of accepting input regarding confirmation can be changed in various ways, similar to the case where it is performed by the settlement device 20.

[0199] Also, when there are two or more store clerks, one store clerk may go to check the customer's age, and when another store clerk understands that the other store clerk has checked the customer's age, the other store clerk may input that the customer's age has been checked to the attendant terminal device 22. By having the attendant terminal device 22 accept the input of the age check, the possibility of the customer being forced to operate the device can be reduced.

[0200] [Sixth Modification of the Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the settlement device 20 includes the notification unit 206 and issues various notifications to a store clerk via the notification unit 206. For example, the server 21 may also include the notification unit 206. In such a case, the notification unit 206 of the server 21 issues notifications regarding age verification and notifications regarding the collection of canceled products. In addition, the notification unit 206 of the server 21 may determine whether a registered product is an age verification product or not.

[0201] In addition, the settlement device 20 may have a part of the functions of the notification unit 206, and the server 21 may have another part of the functions of the notification unit 206, and various modifications are possible.

[0202] [Seventh Modification of the Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the settlement device 20 includes the display control unit 204, and the display control unit 204 controls the display of each screen on the display device of the settlement device. For example, the server 21 may include the display control unit 204. In such a case, the display control unit 204 of the server 21 generates information on a screen to be displayed on the display device of the settlement device, and the settlement device 20 displays the screen on the display device based on the screen information.

[0203] [Eighth Modification of the Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the display control unit 204 displays a screen regarding the predetermined confirmation after product registration is completed and before payment. The settlement device 20 is not limited to the example of displaying a screen regarding the predetermined confirmation, and may also output information regarding the predetermined confirmation. For example, the settlement device 20 may have an output control unit (not shown). The output control unit may then cause an output regarding the predetermined confirmation. More specifically, the output control unit may cause a speaker to output a sound regarding the predetermined confirmation.

[0204] Also, instead of displaying a screen related to a predetermined confirmation, the output control unit may control various outputs. Also, both the display of a screen by the display control unit 204 and the output by the output control unit may be performed. Specifically, for example, both the display of a screen by the display control unit 204 and the output of sound by the output control unit may be performed.

[0205] This concludes the description of the modified examples. Furthermore, each embodiment and its modified examples may be used in combination.

[0206] (Computer Equipment) Next, an example of a hardware configuration in which each device, such as the settlement device 20, the server 21, and the attendant terminal device 22, described in the second embodiment, is realized by a computer device will be described. Fig. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer device. For example, some or all of the devices, such as the settlement device 20 described in the second embodiment, can be realized using any combination of a computer device 30 and a program as shown in Fig. 26.

[0207] The computer device 30 includes, for example, a processor 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a storage device 304, a communication interface 305, and an input / output interface 306. Each component is connected to each other via a bus 307.

[0208] The processor 301 controls the entire computer device 30. The processor 301 may be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). There may be a plurality of processors 301. The computer device 30 has a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a storage device 304, and the like as a storage unit. The storage device 304 may be, for example, a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a HDD, or an SSD. For example, the storage device 304 stores an OS (Operating System) program, an application program, a program according to each embodiment, and the like. Alternatively, the ROM 302 stores an application program, a program according to each embodiment, and the like. The RAM 303 is used as a work area for the processor 301.

[0209] Moreover, the processor 301 loads a program stored in the storage device 304, the ROM 302, etc. Then, the processor 301 executes each process coded in the program. The processor 301 may also download various programs via the communication network 33. The processor 301 functions as a part or the whole of the computer device 30. Then, the processor 301 may execute processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0210] The communication interface 305 is connected to a communication network 33, such as a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), via a wireless or wired communication line. This allows the computer device 30 to be connected to an external device or computer via the communication network 33. The communication interface 305 serves as an interface between the communication network 33 and the inside of the computer device 30. The communication interface 305 also controls the input and output of data from the external device or computer.

[0211] The input / output interface 306 is connected to at least one of an input device, an output device, and an input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of the input device include a keyboard, a mouse, and a microphone. Examples of the output device include a display device, a lighting device, and a speaker that outputs sound. Examples of the input / output device include a touch panel display. The input device, the output device, and the input / output device may be built into the computer device 30 or may be external.

[0212] The hardware configuration of the computer device 30 is an example. The computer device 30 may have some of the components shown in FIG. 26. The computer device 30 may have components other than those shown in FIG. 26. For example, the computer device 30 may have a drive device or the like. The processor 301 may read out programs and data from a recording medium attached to the drive device or the like to the RAM 303. Examples of the recording medium include an optical disk, a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. For example, the computer device 30 may have input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The computer device 30 may have an output device such as a display. The computer device 30 may have an input device and an output device like a PC.

[0213] The computer device 30 may have a reading device such as a barcode reader or a camera capable of reading barcodes, etc. If an RFID is used, the computer device 30 may have an RFID reader. If an IC card is used, the computer device 30 may have a reader for short-range wireless communication.

[0214] Furthermore, the computer device 30 may have a camera (not shown) capable of capturing images of customers, store clerks, and the like.

[0215] The computer device 30 may have various sensors (not shown). The type of the sensor is not particularly limited. Examples of the sensor include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, and a GPS (Global Positioning System). Examples of the sensor include a fingerprint sensor, a LiDAR (Light, Detection and Ranging), a proximity sensor, and an ambient light sensor.

[0216] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. There are various variations in the method of realizing each device. For example, the information processing system may be realized by any combination of different computers and programs for each component. Furthermore, multiple components included in each device may be realized by any combination of a single computer and program.

[0217] Also, some or all of the components of the information processing system may be realized by circuits for specific applications. Also, some or all of the information processing system may be realized by general-purpose circuits including a processor such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Also, some or all of the information processing system may be realized by a combination of circuits for specific applications and general-purpose circuits. Also, these circuits may be a single integrated circuit. Or, these circuits may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. And, the multiple integrated circuits may be configured by being connected via a bus or the like.

[0218] Furthermore, when some or all of the components of each device are realized by a plurality of computers, circuits, etc., the plurality of computers, circuits, etc. may be arranged in a centralized manner or in a distributed manner.

[0219] The method described in each embodiment is realized by, for example, execution by a computer such as a settlement device or a server. Also, the method is realized by execution of a program prepared in advance by a computer such as a settlement device or a server. The program described in each embodiment is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. Then, the program is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. Also, the program may be distributed via a communication network 33.

[0220] The functions of each of the components of the information processing system in each embodiment described above may be realized by hardware, such as the computer shown in Fig. 26. Alternatively, each component may be realized by a computer device or firmware based on program control.

[0221] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to each embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. The configuration and details of each of the present disclosures may include embodiments to which various modifications that a person skilled in the art may understand within the scope of the present disclosure are applied. The present disclosure may include embodiments in which the matters described in this specification are appropriately combined or replaced as necessary. For example, matters described using a specific embodiment may also be applied to other embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs. For example, although multiple operations are described in order in the form of a flowchart, the order of description does not limit the order in which the multiple operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing each embodiment, the order of the multiple operations can be changed to the extent that the content is not impaired.

[0222] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as follows: However, a part or all of the above-described embodiments is not limited to the following.

[0223] (Appendix 1) a reception means for receiving an input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation after the registration of information on the product to be purchased by the customer is completed by an operation of the customer and before payment for the registered product is made; a payment means for making a payment for the registered product after receiving an input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation; An information processing system comprising: (Appendix 2) The predetermined confirmation is a confirmation that must be completed before settlement. 2. An information processing system according to claim 1. (Appendix 3) The predetermined confirmation is a plurality of different confirmations. 3. An information processing system according to claim 1 or 2. (Appendix 4) the accepting means accepts inputs corresponding to each of the plurality of confirmations; the payment means performs payment for the product after receiving all inputs corresponding to each of the plurality of confirmations. 4. An information processing system according to claim 3. (Appendix 5) the accepting means accepts inputs corresponding to each of the plurality of confirmations in a predetermined order. 5. An information processing system according to claim 4. (Appendix 6) The plurality of confirmations include confirmation by the customer and confirmation by a store clerk. 6. An information processing system according to claim 5. (Appendix 7) the reception means receives a confirmation from the customer after receiving an input corresponding to the confirmation by the store clerk; the payment means performs payment for the product after receiving input corresponding to the confirmation by the customer; 7. An information processing system according to claim 6. (Appendix 8) The predetermined confirmation is a confirmation by the customer. 6. An information processing system according to any one of appendix 1 to 5. (Appendix 9) The confirmation by the customer is a confirmation as to whether the registered product will be consumed or consumed at the store. 9. An information processing system according to claim 8. (Appendix 10) A means for identifying a candidate product that may be consumed at the store from among the registered products; Equipped with The receiving means receives an input corresponding to confirmation as to whether the identified candidate product will be consumed at the store. 10. The information processing system according to claim 9. (Appendix 11) The confirmation by the customer is a confirmation as to whether or not the customer will use a specified product. 9. An information processing system according to claim 8. (Appendix 12) The predetermined product is a paid bag. 12. The information processing system according to claim 11. (Appendix 13) The predetermined confirmation is a confirmation by a store clerk. 6. An information processing system according to any one of appendix 1 to 5. (Appendix 14) The confirmation by the store clerk is a confirmation by the store clerk regarding the withdrawal of the canceled product when the registration of any of the registered products is canceled by an operation of the customer. 14. The information processing system according to claim 13. (Appendix 15) a notification means for notifying the store clerk of the recall of the cancelled product when the registration of any of the registered products is cancelled by an operation of the customer after the registration of the product information is completed and before the payment for the registered product is made; 15. The information processing system according to claim 14, comprising: (Appendix 16) The notification means further notifies the store clerk that the registration of any of the products has been cancelled by an operation of the customer. 16. An information processing system according to claim 15. (Appendix 17) The notification means notifies the terminal device of the store clerk. 17. The information processing system according to claim 15 or 16. (Appendix 18) The verification by the store clerk is, if the registered product is a product that requires the store clerk to verify the customer's age, the verification is an age verification. a notification means for notifying the store clerk when the product requiring age verification has been registered; 14. The information processing system according to claim 13, comprising: (Appendix 19) The notification means further notifies the store clerk that the age verification will be performed after the registration of the product information is completed and before the payment for the product is made, when the product requiring the age verification is registered. 19. The information processing system according to claim 18. (Appendix 20) The notification means notifies the terminal device of the store clerk. 19. The information processing system according to claim 18 or 19. (Appendix 21) After the customer has completed registration of information on the product to be purchased, the customer is asked to input a predetermined confirmation before making a payment for the registered product. After receiving the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation, payment is made for the registered product. method. (Appendix 22) On the computer, a process of accepting input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation after the customer has completed the registration of information on the product to be purchased by the customer through the customer's operation and before making a payment for the registered product; a process of making a payment for the registered product after receiving an input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation; A non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer that records a program for executing the above-mentioned program. (Appendix 23) On the computer, a process of accepting input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation after the customer has completed the registration of information on the product to be purchased by the customer through the customer's operation and before making a payment for the registered product; a process of making a payment for the registered product after receiving an input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation; A program that executes the following. [Explanation of symbols]

[0224] 1. Information Processing Systems 2. Payment System 20 Payment device 21 Server 22 Attendant terminal equipment 23. Communications Networks 30 Computer Equipment 33 Communication Networks 101 Reception 102 Payment Department 201 Reception 202 Payment Department 203 Acquisition Department 204 Display control unit 205 Issuance control unit 206 Notification Department 207 Specific section 208 Memory section 211 List Generation Unit 212 Settlement information generation section 213 Sales Management Department 214 Storage section 221 Display control unit 222 Storage section 301 Processor 302 ROM 303 RAM 304 Storage device 305 Communication Interface 306 Input / Output Interface 307 Bus d001 screen d002 Screen d011 Screen d012 Screen d021 Screen d031 Screen d032 Screen d033 Screen d041 Screen d042 Screen d043 Screen 2101 Product DB 2102 Purchased Product List DB 2103 Sales DB

Claims

1. a reception means for receiving an input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation after the registration of information on the product to be purchased by the customer is completed by an operation of the customer and before payment for the registered product is made; a payment means for making a payment for the registered product after receiving an input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation; Equipped with The predetermined confirmation is a confirmation performed by a store clerk when the registration of any of the registered products is cancelled by an operation of the customer. Information processing system.

2. The predetermined confirmation is a confirmation that must be completed before settlement. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. a notification means for notifying the store clerk of the recall of the canceled product when the registration of any of the registered products is canceled by an operation of the customer; The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:

4. a notification means for notifying the store clerk that any of the registered products has been cancelled by an operation of the customer; The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:

5. The notification means notifies the terminal device of the store clerk.

5. The information processing system according to claim 3 or 4.

6. The computer After the customer has completed registration of information on the product to be purchased, the customer is asked to input a predetermined confirmation before making a payment for the registered product. After receiving the input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation, payment is made for the registered product. Execute the process, The predetermined confirmation is a confirmation performed by a store clerk when the registration of any of the registered products is cancelled by an operation of the customer. method.

7. On the computer, a process of accepting input corresponding to a predetermined confirmation after the customer has completed the registration of information on the product to be purchased by the customer through the customer's operation and before making a payment for the registered product; a process of making a payment for the registered product after receiving an input corresponding to the predetermined confirmation; Run the command, The predetermined confirmation is a confirmation performed by a store clerk when the registration of any of the registered products is cancelled by an operation of the customer. program.

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