Article sales data processor and program

Abstract

To provide an article sales data processor and a program with improved operating convenience for operators of short stature.SOLUTION: An article sales data processor according to the embodiment includes a tablet terminal, a movement mechanism, and a movement control unit. The tablet terminal is a terminal device installed on a workbench for performing work related to the sale of articles and operated by a customer who purchases the articles. The moving mechanism supports the tablet terminal and can move the position of the tablet terminal with respect to the workbench. The movement control unit moves the tablet terminal by controlling the movement mechanism on the front side of the workbench in response to pressing a movement button that directs the movement of the tablet terminal on the front side of the workbench.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a product sales data processing device and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a product sales data processing system that enables a customer to carry out a payment process or the like by operating a touch panel having a display function.

[0003] In such a product sales data processing system, a tablet computer (hereinafter referred to as a tablet terminal) may be used as the touch panel (hereinafter referred to as an operation panel) operated by the customer. By using a tablet terminal as the operation panel, it is possible to save space around the cash register counter. Another advantage is that the software can be flexibly customized.

[0004] Generally, tablet devices are often installed on cash register counters. However, cash register counters are usually provided at a height that corresponds to the average height of able-bodied people. For this reason, a tablet device installed on a cash register counter may be difficult to operate for wheelchair users, children, and other short customers and store clerks. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a product sales data processing device and a program that improve the convenience of operation for operators of short stature. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A product sales data processing device according to an embodiment includes a tablet terminal, a movement mechanism, and a movement control unit. The tablet terminal is a terminal device that is provided on a workbench for performing work related to the sale of products and is operated by a customer who purchases a product. The movement mechanism supports the tablet terminal and is capable of moving the position of the tablet terminal relative to the workbench. The movement control unit moves the tablet terminal by controlling the movement mechanism in response to pressing a movement button that moves the tablet terminal on the front side surface of the workbench in response to an operation that instructs the tablet terminal to be moved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a configuration of a product sales data processing system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a moving operation of the tablet terminal according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a moving operation of the tablet terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the movement mechanism according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the movement mechanism according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a movement mechanism according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a movement mechanism according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the movement mechanism according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the movement mechanism according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a product sales data processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a registration device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the tablet terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the transaction device according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by the registration device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a product sales data processing system according to the second modification. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a registration device according to the second modification. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a product sales data processing system according to the third modification. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a registration device according to the third modification. As illustrated in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, a product sales data processing system 10 as an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0009] A configuration of a product sales data processing system 10 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the product sales data processing system 10. For ease of explanation, a three-dimensional coordinate system is also shown.

[0010] In the following description, the width direction (left-right direction) of each device constituting the product sales data processing system 10 is defined as the X-axis direction, the depth direction (front-back direction) as the Y-axis direction, and the height direction (up-down direction) as the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, the positive direction of the Y-axis is the direction from the back side to the front side. Moreover, the positive direction of the Z-axis is the direction from the bottom to the top. Moreover, the positive side of the Y-axis may be referred to as the front side, and the negative side of the Y-axis may be referred to as the back side.

[0011] The product sales data processing system 10 is installed in a store, and includes a registration device 20, a tablet terminal 30, and an accounting device 40. The registration device 20, the tablet terminal 30, and the accounting device 40 are communicatively connected via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the registration device 20 and the tablet terminal 30 are arranged in a separated (spaced apart) state on a work table 50. The work table 50 is a table on which work related to the sale of products is carried out. The work table 50 is sometimes called a counter. The accounting device 40 is provided in front of the work table 50. The work table 50 is provided with a placement table 60 on which a shopping basket CA is placed.

[0013] The registration device 20 is operated by a store clerk CL to execute a registration process for a product purchased by a customer CU. The customer CU is an example of a customer. The store clerk CL operates the registration device 20 while facing the customer CU across the registration device 20. In the example of FIG. 1, the customer CU is a wheelchair user.

[0014] The registration device 20 also includes a scanner 25. In the example of Fig. 1, the scanner 25 is a handheld scanner. The registration device 20 may also include a stationary scanner (a so-called vertical scanner having a reading window) that is placed on the workbench 50.

[0015] Furthermore, the registration device 20 is equipped with a store clerk display 27 having a touch panel 26 laminated on its display surface. The store clerk display 27 displays the product name, price, etc. of the product read by the scanner 25. The touch panel 26 is for assisting in inputting information related to the product to be registered. The registration device 20 may be equipped with an input device other than the touch panel 26, such as a keyboard.

[0016] The registration device 20 identifies a product by reading a code symbol, such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code, attached to the product with the scanner 25. The registration device 20 may identify the product by general object recognition based on an image of the product captured by a camera.

[0017] Specifically, the registration device 20 refers to a product master 222 (see FIG. 10) that stores product codes that identify each product sold in the store in association with the product name, price, etc. of the product, and uniquely identifies the product corresponding to the product code contained in the read code symbol.

[0018] The registration device 20 displays a screen on the store clerk's display 27 to confirm the identified product and to input the number of items, etc. Then, the registration device 20 registers the identified product. Note that registration means that the product information of the product read from the product master 222 is associated with the number of items (purchased number) of the product, etc., and stored in the product registration file 223 (see FIG. 10) described later.

[0019] The registration device 20 also includes a movement button 28 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). The movement button 28 is a button for changing the position of the tablet terminal 30 and the angle of the display 36. The movement button 28 will be described later.

[0020] The tablet terminal 30 is a terminal device operated by a customer who purchases a product. For example, the tablet terminal 30 displays various information related to the product sales data processing system 10. Also, for example, the tablet terminal 30 accepts various operation inputs related to the product sales data processing system 10.

[0021] The tablet terminal 30 also includes a display 36 having a touch panel 35 laminated on its display surface. The display 36 is configured, for example, as a liquid crystal panel, and displays information related to accounting processing, such as the total amount of a transaction, in the form of images and text.

[0022] The tablet terminal 30 is configured to be able to change the position in the height direction (Z-axis direction), the position in the front-rear direction (Y-axis direction), and the angle (tilt direction position) of the display 36 by a movement mechanism 70 (see Figs. 4 to 9). The movement mechanism 70 will be described later.

[0023] The accounting device 40 performs payment processing for registered products when the customer CU, who has completed product registration using the registration device 20, operates the customer CU via the tablet terminal 30. In this way, the product sales data processing system 10 according to this embodiment constitutes a so-called semi-self-service POS system in which the product registration operation performed by the store clerk and the payment operation performed by the customer are separated.

[0024] 1, the accounting device 40 includes a deposit / withdrawal device 45. The deposit / withdrawal device 45 includes a coin insertion port 451, a bill insertion port 452, a bill withdrawal port 453, and a coin withdrawal port 454. The deposit / withdrawal device 45 stores bills inserted into the bill insertion port 452 in a bill storage section (not shown).

[0025] The depositing / withdrawing device 45 also stores coins inserted into the coin insertion slot 451 in a coin storage unit (not shown). Then, in response to a change dispensing request from the control unit 31 (see FIG. 10), the depositing / withdrawing device 45 dispenses banknote change to the banknote dispensing slot 453. In response to a change dispensing request from the control unit 31, the depositing / withdrawing device 45 also dispenses coin change to the coin dispensing slot 454.

[0026] Although not shown in FIG. 1, the accounting device 40 also includes a card reader 46 and a receipt printer 47 (see FIG. 10).

[0027] The card reader 46 reads and writes information from a credit card, membership card, or the like inserted through a card insertion slot.

[0028] The receipt printer 47 issues a receipt printed by the printing unit in accordance with instructions from the control unit 31 from a receipt issuing port.

[0029] The accounting device 40 may have other components, such as a light emitting unit that emits light when an abnormality occurs in the operation of the accounting device 40.

[0030] In the product sales data processing system 1 configured as described above, a customer operates the accounting device 40 via the tablet terminal 30 to pay for products by cash, credit card, electronic money, etc., i.e., performs a settlement process. During the settlement process, the accounting device 40 displays the total amount of one transaction based on the product registration file 223 received from the registration device 20, and controls the processing related to the accounting for that total amount.

[0031] The product registration file 223 includes information such as the total amount of one transaction to be processed, product information of the product to be transacted, the device number of the registration device 20 that is the data sender, and the name of the operator in charge. The product registration file may also include other information necessary for printing receipts. The product registration file 223 may also include sales promotion information for printing receipts.

[0032] 1 shows a configuration including one each of the registration device 20, tablet terminal 30, and accounting device 40, but the product sales data processing system 10 may include multiple registration devices 20, tablet terminals 30, and accounting devices 40. The registration device 20 according to the embodiment is an example of a product sales data processing device in the present disclosure. In addition, when the tablet terminal 30 has the functions of the registration device 20, the tablet terminal 30 constitutes a part of the product sales data processing device in the present disclosure.

[0033] The embodiment of the product sales data processing system 10 of the present disclosure is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 1. For example, the present disclosure may be applied to a full-self-service POS system in which a customer performs product registration and payment operations by himself / herself. The full-self-service POS system is realized as a POS terminal installed in a store in which, for example, a registration device 20 or a tablet terminal 30 and a checkout device 40 are integrated.

[0034] Next, the movement button 28 will be described with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 are diagrams for explaining an example of the movement operation of the tablet terminal 30. As shown in Fig. 2, the movement button 28 is provided on the front side of the workbench 50. The movement button 28 is provided at a height that makes it easy for short people such as wheelchair users and children to press. In the following explanation, for the sake of convenience, people who are not short will be referred to as able-bodied people.

[0035] 2, the tablet terminal 30 is positioned on a workbench 50. If the height of the workbench 50 from the floor surface is 800 mm, and the length of the tablet terminal 30 in the longitudinal direction is 350 mm, the distance from the floor surface to the upper end of the tablet terminal 30 is 1150 mm.

[0036] In this case, short people such as wheelchair users and children may not be able to reach the top of the display 36 of the tablet terminal 30 unless they raise their hands higher than their shoulders. In other words, if the tablet terminal 30 is placed on the workbench 50, it may be difficult for short people to operate the touch panel 35.

[0037] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the customer CU presses the movement button 28, as shown in FIG. 3, the tablet terminal 30 is moved downward by the movement mechanism 70 (see FIGS. 4 to 9).

[0038] As an example, consider a case where the height of the workbench 50 from the floor surface is 800 mm, the length of the tablet terminal 30 in the longitudinal direction is 350 mm, and the tablet terminal 30 is positioned on the workbench 50. In this case, when the tablet terminal 30 is moved downward by the length of the tablet terminal 30 in the longitudinal direction, the distance from the floor surface to the upper end of the tablet terminal 30 becomes 800 mm, which is the same as the height of the workbench 50 from the floor surface.

[0039] In this way, by moving the tablet terminal 30 downward, the distance from the floor surface to the upper end of the tablet terminal 30 becomes approximately the same as the height of the workbench 50 from the floor surface, so that even a customer CU who uses a wheelchair can operate the touch panel 35 without having to raise their hands above shoulder height.

[0040] In addition, in FIG. 3, the movement button 28 for moving the tablet terminal 30 in the vertical direction is described, but the registration device 20 may be provided with additional movement buttons for moving the tablet terminal 30 in the forward / backward direction or for changing the angle of the display 36.

[0041] Next, the movement mechanism 70 that realizes the movement of the tablet terminal 30 will be described with reference to Figs. 4 to 9. Figs. 4 to 9 are diagrams illustrating an example of the configuration of the movement mechanism 70. Figs. 4 and 5 are perspective views illustrating an example of each component of the movement mechanism 70. Fig. 4 is a diagram of the movement mechanism 70 seen from the front side of the workbench 50, and Fig. 5 is a diagram of the movement mechanism 70 seen from the rear side of the workbench 50. Fig. 6 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating an example of each component of the movement mechanism 70.

[0042] The movement mechanism 70 supports the tablet terminal 30 and moves the position of the tablet terminal 30 relative to the workbench 50. As shown in Fig. 4 to Fig. 6, the movement mechanism 70 includes a support portion 71, a first rail 72, a movable portion 73, a first gear 74, a second rail 75, a second gear 76, and a third gear 77.

[0043] The support section 71 supports the tablet terminal 30. For example, the support section 71 supports the tablet terminal 30 with the display surface of the tablet terminal 30 open. There is no particular restriction on the support structure of the support section 71. For example, the support section 71 may be attached to the rear surface of the tablet terminal 30 to support the tablet terminal 30 from the rear surface. Furthermore, the support section 71 may have a frame section shaped according to the outer peripheral shape of the tablet terminal 30, and may support the tablet terminal 30 from the side by fitting the tablet terminal 30 in the frame section.

[0044] The first rail 72 is provided on the support portion 71 and is a rail for moving the support portion 71 in the height direction. The first rail 72 has a concave cross section, and a rack that meshes with the first gear 74 is formed inside the first rail 72. The movable portion 73 is a member for realizing the movement of the support portion 71 in the height direction. The movable portion 73 supports the support portion 71 so that it can slide.

[0045] The first gear 74 is provided on the surface of the movable part 73 facing the support part 71. The first gear 74 is a circular gear that corresponds to a pinion of a rack provided on the first rail 72. The first gear 74 is rotated by a drive device (not shown). The drive device is, for example, a stepping motor that rotates by a certain angle at a time. As shown in FIG. 6, when the first gear 74 rotates, the support part 71 is sent out in the rotation direction of the first gear 74 by the rack and pinion. Therefore, the support part 71 slides up and down along the first rail 72 in conjunction with the rotation of the first gear 74.

[0046] Here, Fig. 7 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining an example of an operation image of the movement mechanism 70 when moving in the height direction. For example, when the support part 71 is present at the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 7, when the movement button 28 is pressed by the customer CU or the store clerk CL, the drive device is driven under the control of the control part 21 described later, and the first gear 74 rotates clockwise. As a result, the tablet terminal 30 moves downward (in the direction of the arrow) together with the support part 71.

[0047] When the support part 71 moves to the position shown by the dashed line, the drive device stops and the rotation of the first gear 74 also stops. When the support part 71 is in the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 7, if the customer CU or the store clerk CL presses the movement button 28, the first gear 74 rotates counterclockwise. As a result, the tablet terminal 30 moves upward together with the support part 71.

[0048] In this embodiment, the tablet terminal 30 stops at either the position indicated by the dashed line or the position indicated by the solid line in Fig. 7, but the stopping position of the support unit 71 may be adjustable. For example, the movement distance of the support unit 71 may be adjustable depending on the time the movement button 28 is pressed. In this case, a button for moving the support unit 71 upwards and a button for moving the support unit 71 downwards may be provided, or the movement direction of the support unit 71 may be reversed when the support unit 71 reaches the position indicated by the dashed line or the position indicated by the solid line in Fig. 7.

[0049] The movement mechanism 70 may be configured so that the tablet terminal 30 moves a predetermined distance with one press of the movement button 28, and the stop position of the tablet terminal 30 may be adjusted according to the number of times the movement button 28 is pressed. In this case, a button for moving upward and a button for moving downward may be provided, or the movement direction of the support portion 71 may be reversed when the support portion 71 reaches the position indicated by the dashed line or the position indicated by the solid line in FIG. 7.

[0050] The second rail 75 is a rail for moving the support part 71 in the front-rear direction. For example, the second rail 75 is an L-shaped rail provided along a corner of the workbench 50. The second rail 75 has a rack having a recess and a protrusion formed on its surface. The second gears 76 are provided in pairs on both sides of the movable part 73 so as to be freely rotatable. In other words, the pair of second gears 76 are provided facing each other with the movable part 73 in between. The second gear 76 is held by a connecting part 78 described later, with the second rail 75 sandwiched between the second gear 76 and the third gear 77.

[0051] The second gear 76 is rotated by a driving device. The second gear 76 has a recess and a protrusion on its outer periphery. As shown in FIG. 6, when the second gear 76 rotates, the recess of the second rail 75 and the protrusion of the second gear 76 fit together. Similarly, the protrusion of the second rail 75 and the recess of the second gear 76 fit together.

[0052] Here, even if second gear 76 rotates, the positions of the recessed and protruding portions of second rail 75 do not change. For this reason, as second gear 76 rotates, it is pushed in the rotational direction by the recessed and protruding portions of second rail 75. In other words, second rail 75 and second gear 76 are in a rack-and-pinion relationship, and as second gear 76 rotates, it moves on second rail 75 in its own rotational direction.

[0053] In addition, the movable part 73 is supported by the rotation shaft of the second gear 76. Therefore, when the second gear 76 moves on the second rail 75, the movable part 73 slides in the front-rear direction along the second rail 75 in conjunction with the movement of the second gear 76. In addition, since the movable part 73 supports the support part 71, the support part 71 also moves in the front-rear direction together with the movable part 73.

[0054] Here, Fig. 8 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining an example of an operation image of the movement mechanism 70 when moving in the front-rear direction. For example, when the customer CU or the store clerk CL presses the movement button 28 with the support part 71 in the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 8, the drive device is driven under the control of the control unit 21, and the second gear 76 rotates counterclockwise. As a result, the support part 71 (tablet terminal 30) moves in the direction of the solid arrow shown in Fig. 8.

[0055] When the support part 71 moves to the position shown by the dashed line, the drive device stops and the rotation of the second gear 76 also stops. Furthermore, when the movement button 28 is pressed by the customer CU or the store clerk CL while the support part 71 is in the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 8, the second gear 76 rotates clockwise. As a result, the support part 71 moves in the front-rear direction from the position shown by the dashed line to the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 8.

[0056] The support portion 71 may be configured to be movable to the position indicated by the dashed line in Fig. 8. This allows the support portion 71 to be moved to a lower position in the height direction. Similarly to the movement in the height direction, the stopping position of the support portion 71 when moving in the front-rear direction may be adjustable by the customer CU or the store clerk CL.

[0057] The third gear 77 is a gear for moving the support part 71 in the tilt direction. The third gears 77 are provided in a pair. The third gears 77 are rotated by a drive device. The movable part 73 and the rotation shaft of the third gears 77 are connected by a connecting part 78. The connecting parts 78 are provided in a pair on both side surfaces of the movable part 73 so as to be sandwiched between a pair of second gears 76.

[0058] The rotational motion of third gear 77 is converted into motion of movable part 73 moving in the tilt direction by connecting part 78. Therefore, when third gear 77 rotates, movable part 73 moves in the tilt direction in conjunction with the rotation of third gear 77.

[0059] As described above, since the movable part 73 supports the support part 71, the support part 71 also moves in the tilt direction together with the movable part 73. In other words, the third gear 77 can change the angle of the support part 71 with respect to the floor surface by rotating.

[0060] Here, Fig. 9 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining an example of an operation image of the movement mechanism 70 when moving in the tilt direction. For example, when the customer CU or the store clerk CL presses the movement button 28 with the support part 71 in the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 9, the drive device is driven under the control of the control unit 21, and the third gear 77 rotates counterclockwise. As a result, the support part 71 (tablet terminal 30) moves in the direction of the arrow shown in Fig. 9.

[0061] When the support part 71 moves to the position shown by the dashed line, the drive device stops and the rotation of the third gear 77 also stops. If the customer CU or the store clerk CL presses the movement button 28 while the support part 71 is in the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 9, the third gear 77 rotates clockwise. As a result, the support part 71 moves in the tilt direction from the position shown by the dashed line to the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 9.

[0062] As with the movement in the height direction, the stopping position of the support portion 71 during movement in the tilt direction may be adjustable by the customer CU or the store clerk CL.

[0063] In addition, although an example in which the support portion 71 includes the first rail 72 has been described above, the first rail 72 may be provided directly on the back surface of the tablet terminal 30. In addition, although an example in which the L-shaped second rail 75 realizes movement of the support portion 71 in the height direction and the front-rear direction has been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a linear rail may be provided on the upper surface of the workbench 50 to allow movement only in the front-rear direction.

[0064] The moving mechanism 70 is not limited to the above-mentioned configuration and may be realized in other configurations. The moving mechanism 70 may be configured to have some movement in the height direction, the front-rear direction, and the tilt direction. For example, some movement, such as movement in the tilt direction, may be performed manually.

[0065] Next, there will be described a hardware configuration of each device in the product sales data processing system 10. Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of each device in the product sales data processing system.

[0066] First, a description will be given of the hardware configuration of the registration device 20. The registration device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a communication interface 23, a peripheral device control unit 24, and various peripheral devices connected to the peripheral device control unit 24. These components are connected to each other via an internal bus.

[0067] The control unit 21 controls the overall operation of the registration device 20. The control unit 21 has a computer configuration, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown) that executes the registration process, and a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) (neither shown) that are storage media. The ROM stores various programs executed by the CPU, various data, etc. The RAM temporarily stores data and programs when the CPU executes various programs.

[0068] In addition, the control unit 21 performs data communication via the communication interface 23 with the tablet terminal 30 and the accounting device 40 that are connected via a network.

[0069] The storage unit 22 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The storage unit 22 may also be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off.

[0070] The storage unit 22 stores a control program 221 , a product master 222 , and a product registration file 223 .

[0071] The control program 221 is a program that governs the overall operation of the registration device 20. The control program 221 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 22, or may be provided by being recorded in an installable or executable file format on a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD.

[0072] The control program 221 may also be provided by being stored on a computer connected to a network and downloaded via the network. Furthermore, the control program 221 may also be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0073] The product master 222 is a master file that stores product codes of products handled in the store in association with product information (product name, unit price, etc.) of the products.

[0074] The product registration file 223 is a file that records product information for each transaction that is registered by the registration device 20. The product registration file 223 includes product names, unit prices, quantities, total amounts, and the like.

[0075] The communication interface 23 performs wired or wireless communication between the tablet terminal 30 and the accounting device 40. For example, the registration device 20 transmits a display control command including a screen ID that uniquely identifies a screen to be displayed on the display 36 of the tablet terminal 30 to the tablet terminal 30 via the communication interface 23. Also, for example, the registration device 20 transfers a product registration file 223 to the accounting device 40 via the communication interface 23.

[0076] The peripheral device control unit 24 connects the control unit 21 with the peripheral devices, which are the scanner 25, the touch panel 26, the store clerk display 27, the movement button 28, and the movement mechanism 70. The peripheral device control unit 24 transmits control instructions from the control unit 21 to the peripheral devices to be controlled. The peripheral device control unit 24 also transmits information from the peripheral devices to the control unit 21.

[0077] The functions of each peripheral device are as described above, so a repeated explanation will be omitted.

[0078] Next, a description will be given of the hardware configuration of the tablet terminal 30. The tablet terminal 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a communication interface 33, a peripheral device control unit 34, and various peripheral devices connected to the peripheral device control unit 34. These components are connected to each other via an internal bus.

[0079] The control unit 31 controls the overall operation of the tablet terminal 30. The control unit 31 has the configuration of a computer, and includes a CPU (not shown) that executes registration processing, and a ROM and a RAM (neither shown) that are storage media. The ROM stores various programs executed by the CPU, various data, etc. The RAM temporarily stores data and programs when the CPU executes various programs.

[0080] The control unit 31 also performs data communication with the registration device 20 and the accounting device 40, which are connected via a network, via the communication interface 33. For example, the tablet terminal 30 receives a display control command including a screen ID from the registration device 20 or the accounting device 40 via the communication interface 33. Also, for example, the tablet terminal 30 transmits an operation control command based on an operation input received via the touch panel 35 to the registration device 20 or the accounting device 40 via the communication interface 33.

[0081] The storage unit 32 is a storage device such as an HDD, an SSD, etc. The storage unit 32 may also be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off.

[0082] The storage unit 32 stores a control program 321 and an operation screen master 322 .

[0083] The control program 321 is a program that governs the overall operation of the accounting device 40. The control program 321 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 32, or may be provided recorded as an installable or executable file on a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD.

[0084] The control program 321 may also be provided by being stored on a computer connected to a network and downloaded via the network. Furthermore, the control program 321 may also be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0085] The operation screen master 322 is a master file that stores a screen ID and an image that constitutes the screen identified by the screen ID in association with each other. The tablet terminal 30 can display on the display 36 a screen that matches the processing executed by the product sales data processing system 10 by receiving a display control command including a screen ID transmitted from the registration device 20 or the accounting device 40 in accordance with the processing executed.

[0086] The functions of each peripheral device are as described above, so a repeated explanation will be omitted.

[0087] Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the accounting device 40. The accounting device 40 comprises a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a communication interface 43, a peripheral device control unit 44, and various peripheral devices connected to the peripheral device control unit 44. These components are connected to each other via an internal bus.

[0088] The control unit 41 controls the overall operation of the accounting device 40. The control unit 41 has the configuration of a computer, and includes a CPU (not shown) that executes the registration process, and storage media such as ROM and RAM (neither shown). The ROM stores various programs executed by the CPU, various data, etc. The RAM temporarily stores data and programs when the CPU executes various programs.

[0089] In addition, the control unit 41 performs data communication via the communication interface 43 with the registration device 20 and the tablet terminal 30 that are connected via a network.

[0090] The storage unit 42 is a storage device such as an HDD, an SSD, etc. The storage unit 42 may also be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off.

[0091] The storage unit 42 stores a control program 421, a payment file 422, and a product registration file 223.

[0092] The control program 421 is a program that governs the overall operation of the accounting device 40. The control program 421 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 42, or may be provided recorded in an installable or executable file format on a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD.

[0093] The control program 421 may also be provided by being stored on a computer connected to a network and downloaded via the network. Furthermore, the control program 321 may also be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0094] The product registration file 223 is a file transferred from the registration device 20 .

[0095] The payment file 422 is a file that records the results of payments made by the accounting device 40 for each transaction. The payment file 422 includes the contents of the product registration file 223, the payment method, the payment date and time, etc. The payment file 422 is periodically transferred to and stored in a higher-level device such as a store server (not shown in Fig. 10).

[0096] The communication interface 43 performs wired or wireless communication between the registration device 20 and the tablet terminal 30. For example, the accounting device 40 sends a display control command including a screen ID to the tablet terminal 30 via the communication interface 43. Also, for example, the accounting device 40 obtains the product registration file 223 from the registration device 20 via the communication interface 43.

[0097] The peripheral device control unit 44 connects the control unit 41 with the peripheral devices, namely, the deposit / withdrawal device 45, the card reader 46, and the receipt printer 47. The peripheral device control unit 44 transmits control instructions from the control unit 41 to the peripheral devices to be controlled. In addition, the peripheral device control unit 44 transmits information from the peripheral devices to the control unit 41.

[0098] Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the registration device 20. FIG 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the registration device 20.

[0099] The control unit 21 of the registration device 20 reads out the control program 221, deploys it in a RAM included in the control unit 21, and executes it to realize a communication control unit 211, a registration unit 212, a movement control unit 213, a display control unit 214, and an operation control unit 215 as functional units, as shown in Fig. 11. The movement control unit 213 may be included in the tablet terminal 30 as a functional unit of the tablet terminal 30.

[0100] The communication control unit 211 controls the sending and receiving of various information between the tablet terminal 30 and the accounting device 40, which are connected via the communication interface 23. For example, the communication control unit 211 sends a display control command corresponding to a process to be executed by the registration device 20 to the tablet terminal 30 via the communication interface 23. Also, for example, the communication control unit 211 transfers a product registration file 223 to the accounting device 40 via the communication interface 23.

[0101] The registration unit 212 performs a product registration process. For example, the registration unit 212 refers to the above-mentioned product master 222 and uniquely identifies a product corresponding to a product code included in a code symbol read by the scanner 25. Then, the registration unit 212 registers the product information of the identified product in the product registration file 223 in association with the quantity of the product (purchase quantity) and the like.

[0102] The movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 in response to an operation instructing the movement of the tablet terminal 30, thereby moving the tablet terminal 30. For example, consider a case where the tablet terminal 30 is located at a height suitable for a healthy person, and a customer CU has pressed a movement button 28 (hereinafter also referred to as a height button) for changing the position of the tablet terminal 30 in the height direction. As one example, a position suitable for a healthy person in the height direction means that the tablet terminal 30 is at the highest position within the range to which it can be moved in the height direction.

[0103] In this case, the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 in the height direction so that the tablet terminal 30 is positioned in the height direction at a position suitable for a wheelchair user. As an example, a position suitable for a wheelchair user in the height direction means that the tablet terminal 30 is at the lowest position within the range in which it can be moved in the height direction.

[0104] Also, for example, consider a case where the tablet terminal 30 is in a position suitable for a healthy person in the front-rear direction and a customer CU has pressed a movement button 28 (hereinafter also referred to as a front-rear button) for changing the front-rear position of the tablet terminal 30. As an example, a position suitable for a healthy person in the front-rear direction means that the tablet terminal 30 is in the innermost position (the side where the store clerk CL is located) within the range in which the tablet terminal 30 can be moved in the front-rear direction.

[0105] In this case, the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 in the front-rear direction so that the position of the tablet terminal 30 in the front-rear direction becomes a position suitable for a wheelchair user. As an example, a position suitable for a wheelchair user in the front-rear direction means that the tablet terminal 30 is located at the frontmost position (the side where the customer CU is located) within the range where the tablet terminal 30 can be moved in the front-rear direction.

[0106] Also, for example, consider a case where the angle of the display 36 of the tablet terminal 30 is set to an angle suitable for a able-bodied person, and a customer CU has pressed a movement button 28 (hereinafter also referred to as an angle button) for changing the angle of the display 36. As an example, the angle suitable for a able-bodied person means that the display 36 is tilted to the farthest side within the movable range in the tilt direction.

[0107] In this case, the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to change the angle of the tablet terminal 30 so that the angle of the display 36 becomes an angle suitable for a wheelchair user. As one example, an angle suitable for a wheelchair user means that the angle of the display 36 with respect to the floor surface is in a substantially vertical position.

[0108] In addition, the movement control unit 213 may perform control to automatically return the tablet terminal 30 to a position suitable for an able-bodied person when a predetermined time has elapsed since the tablet terminal 30 was moved to a position suitable for a wheelchair user.

[0109] Generally, there are more able-bodied users than wheelchair users at a store. Therefore, by automatically returning the tablet terminal 30 to a position suitable for able-bodied users after a predetermined time has elapsed, the number of times that the store clerk CL or able-bodied customer CU presses the movement button 28 to return the tablet terminal 30 to a position suitable for able-bodied users can be reduced.

[0110] The display control unit 214 controls the display of various information related to the processing executed by the registration device 20 on the display device.

[0111] For example, the display control unit 214 generates a screen to be displayed on the store clerk's display 27. Then, the display control unit 214 performs control to display the generated screen on the store clerk's display 27. Also, for example, the display control unit 214 generates a display control command according to the process executed by the registration device 20. Then, the display control unit 214 cooperates with the communication control unit 211 to transmit the generated display control command to the tablet terminal 30. As described above, the display control command includes a screen ID.

[0112] The operation control unit 215 controls various operations related to the processing of the registration device 20. For example, the operation control unit 215 causes the control unit 21 to perform processing in response to an operation of the touch panel 26 by the store clerk CL. Also, for example, the operation control unit 215 causes the control unit 21 to perform processing in response to an operation control command received from the tablet terminal 30 by the communication control unit 211.

[0113] Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the tablet terminal 30. FIG 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the tablet terminal 30.

[0114] The control unit 31 of the tablet terminal 30 reads out the control program 321, deploys it in the RAM provided in the control unit 31, and executes it, thereby realizing a communication control unit 311, a display control unit 312, and an operation control unit 313 as functional units shown in Figure 12.

[0115] The communication control unit 311 controls the sending and receiving of various information between the registration device 20 and the accounting device 40, which are connected via the communication interface 33. For example, the communication control unit 311 receives a display control command from the registration device 20 or the accounting device 40 via the communication interface 33. Also, for example, the communication control unit 211 sends an operation control command to the registration device 20 or the accounting device 40 via the communication interface 23.

[0116] The display control unit 312 controls the display of various information related to the processing executed by the product sales data processing system 10 on the display device.

[0117] For example, the display control unit 312 refers to the operation screen master 322 and identifies an image that corresponds to a screen ID included in a display control command received from the registration device 20 or the accounting device 40. Next, the display control unit 312 generates a screen to be displayed on the display 36 from the identified image. Then, the display control unit 312 performs control to display the generated screen on the display 36.

[0118] The operation control unit 313 controls various operations related to the processing executed by the product sales data processing system 10. For example, the operation control unit 313 generates an operation control command based on an operation input received from a customer CU via the touch panel 35. Then, the operation control unit 313 cooperates with the communication control unit 311 to transmit the generated operation control command to the registration device 20 or the accounting device 40.

[0119] Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the accounting device 40. Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the accounting device 40.

[0120] The control unit 41 of the accounting device 40 reads out the control program 421, deploys it in the RAM provided in the control unit 41, and executes it, thereby realizing the communication control unit 411, payment processing unit 412, display control unit 413, and operation control unit 414 shown in Figure 13 as functional units.

[0121] The communication control unit 411 controls the transmission and reception of various information between the registration device 20 and the tablet terminal 30 connected via the communication interface 43. For example, the communication control unit 411 transmits a display control command corresponding to a process to be executed by the accounting device 40 to the tablet terminal 30 via the communication interface 43. Also, for example, the communication control unit 411 receives a product registration file 223 from the registration device 20 via the communication interface 43.

[0122] The payment processing unit 412 executes processing related to payment. For example, the payment processing unit 412 performs payment processing related to the product registration file 223 acquired from the registration device 20 using the payment method selected by the customer CU.

[0123] The display control unit 413 controls the display of various information related to the processing executed by the accounting device 40 on the display device.

[0124] For example, the display control unit 413 generates a display control command corresponding to the process executed by the accounting device 40. Then, the display control unit 413 cooperates with the communication control unit 411 to transmit the generated display control command to the tablet terminal 30. As described above, the display control command includes a screen ID.

[0125] The operation control unit 414 controls various operations related to the processing of the checkout apparatus 40. For example, the operation control unit 414 causes the control unit 41 to perform processing according to an operation control command received from the tablet terminal 30 by the communication control unit 411.

[0126] Next, the process executed by the registration device 20 will be described. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed by the registration device 20. Fig. 14 shows an example of the flow of the process related to the movement of the tablet terminal 30. As a premise, the registration device 20 has a height button, a forward / backward button, and an angle button as the movement buttons 28. In addition, the electric signals generated by pressing the buttons have different voltage values.

[0127] First, the movement control unit 213 determines whether the movement button 28 has been pressed (step S101). For example, the movement control unit 213 determines whether the movement button 28 has been pressed by detecting an electrical signal generated when the customer CU presses the movement button 28. If it is determined that the movement button 28 has not been pressed (step S101: No), the process of step S101 is repeated.

[0128] When it is determined that the movement button 28 has been pressed (step S101: Yes), the movement control unit 213 determines whether the height button has been pressed (step S102).

[0129] For example, the movement control unit 213 measures the voltage value of an electrical signal generated when the customer CU presses the movement button 28. The movement control unit 213 determines whether the height button has been pressed by determining whether the measured voltage value corresponds to an electrical signal generated when the height button is pressed.

[0130] When it is determined that the height button has been pressed (step S102: Yes), the movement control unit 213 determines whether the position of the tablet terminal 30 in the height direction is suitable for an able-bodied person (step S103). When it is suitable for an able-bodied person (step S103: Yes), the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 downward, thereby moving it to a position suitable for a wheelchair user (step S104).

[0131] On the other hand, if the position is not suitable for a healthy person (step S103: No), the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 upward to a height suitable for a healthy person (step S105). After the process of step S104 or step S105, the process returns to step S101.

[0132] If it is determined in step S102 that the height button has not been pressed (step S102: No), the movement control unit 213 determines whether the forward / backward button has been pressed (step S106).

[0133] For example, the movement control unit 213 measures the voltage value of an electrical signal generated when the customer CU presses the movement button 28. The movement control unit 213 determines whether the forward / backward button has been pressed by determining whether the measured voltage value corresponds to an electrical signal generated when the forward / backward button is pressed.

[0134] When it is determined that the forward / backward button has been pressed (step S106: Yes), the movement control unit 213 determines whether the position of the tablet terminal 30 in the forward / backward direction is suitable for an able-bodied person (step S107). When it is suitable for an able-bodied person (step S107: Yes), the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 in the forward / backward direction to a position suitable for a wheelchair user (step S108).

[0135] On the other hand, if the position is not suitable for a healthy person (step S107: No), the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 in the forward / backward direction to a position suitable for a healthy person (step S109). After the process of step S108 or step S109, the process returns to step S101.

[0136] If it is determined in step S106 that the forward / backward button has not been pressed (step S106: No), the movement control unit 213 determines whether the tablet terminal 30 is at an angle suitable for an able-bodied person (step S110). If it is at an angle suitable for an able-bodied person (step S110: Yes), the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to change the angle of the display 36 of the tablet terminal 30 to an angle suitable for a wheelchair user (step S111).

[0137] On the other hand, if the angle is not suitable for a healthy person (step S110: No), the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to change the angle of the display 36 of the tablet terminal 30 to an angle suitable for a healthy person (step S112). After the process of step S111 or step S112, the process returns to the process of step S101.

[0138] As described above, the registration device 20 according to this embodiment has the movement mechanism 70 that supports the tablet terminal 30 and is capable of moving the position of the tablet terminal 30 relative to the workbench 50. Moreover, the registration device 20 according to this embodiment moves the tablet terminal 30 by controlling the movement mechanism 70 in response to an operation instructing the movement of the tablet terminal 30.

[0139] As a result, when the customer CU or the store clerk CL presses the movement button 28, the tablet terminal 30 moves to a lower position. Therefore, even a short person such as a wheelchair user who finds it difficult to operate the tablet terminal 30 when it is on the workbench 50 can improve the operability of the tablet terminal 30 by simply pressing the movement button 28. In other words, the registration device 20 according to this embodiment can improve the convenience of operation for a short operator.

[0140] The above-described embodiment can be modified as appropriate by partially changing the configuration or function of each device of the product sales data processing system 10. Therefore, some modified examples of the above-described embodiment will be described below as other embodiments. The following mainly describes the differences from the above-described embodiment, and a detailed description of the commonalities with the contents already described will be omitted. The modified examples described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0141] (Variation 1) In the above-described embodiment, the tablet terminal 30 is moved by being driven by a drive device. In this modification, a form in which the tablet terminal 30 is moved without being driven by a drive device will be described.

[0142] The support section 71 of this modification has an electromagnetic lock that clamps the tablet terminal 30 from both sides to fix the height direction position of the tablet terminal 30 at a height suitable for able-bodied people. In this modification, when the electromagnetic lock is released, the tablet terminal 30 moves by gravity along the first rail 72 to a height suitable for a wheelchair user.

[0143] A hydraulic damper or the like may be used when moving the tablet terminal 30 to a height suitable for wheelchair users. This allows the tablet terminal 30 to move slowly, thereby reducing the impact on the tablet terminal 30 during movement.

[0144] In addition, when the tablet terminal 30 is at a height suitable for a wheelchair user, the store clerk CL or customer CU pushes the tablet terminal 30 up along the first rail 72 and turns on the electromagnetic lock, thereby moving the tablet terminal 30 to a height suitable for an able-bodied person.

[0145] According to this modification, it is possible to move the tablet terminal 30 in the height direction without providing a drive device, and therefore it is possible to conserve energy.

[0146] (Variation 2) In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the tablet terminal 30 moves between a position suitable for an able-bodied person and a position suitable for a wheelchair user by pressing the movement button 28. In this modified example, a configuration will be described in which the tablet terminal 30 is automatically moved to a position according to the height of the customer CU.

[0147] First, a description will be given of the hardware configuration of the product sales data processing system 10 according to the modified example 2. Fig. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the product sales data processing system 10 according to the modified example 2. As shown in Fig. 15, the registration device 20 according to this modified example includes a camera 29 in addition to the configuration shown in Fig. 10.

[0148] The camera 29 is provided so as to be able to capture an image of the entire body of a customer CU standing in front of the tablet terminal 30. The camera 29 may be provided in the tablet terminal 30.

[0149] Furthermore, the storage unit 42 according to this modification stores a height determination table 224. For example, the height determination table 224 is a data table that associates height with information indicating the position of the tablet terminal 30 in the height direction.

[0150] Next, a description will be given of a functional configuration of the registration device 20 according to Modification 2. Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the registration device 20 according to Modification 2. As shown in Fig. 16, the registration device 20 includes a first acquisition unit 216 and a measurement unit 217 as functional units in addition to the configuration shown in Fig. 11.

[0151] The first acquisition unit 216 acquires the image captured by the camera 29 .

[0152] The measurement unit 217 measures the height of the customer CU making the transaction based on the image acquired by the first acquisition unit 216. In this case, the height refers to the linear distance from the top of the customer CU's head to the floor of the store. For example, the measurement unit 217 measures the height of the customer CU shown in the acquired image using a known image recognition technology or the like.

[0153] Furthermore, the movement control unit 213 according to this modified example refers to the height determination table 224, and identifies the heightwise position of the tablet terminal 30 corresponding to the customer CU measured by the measurement unit 217. Then, the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 to the identified heightwise position.

[0154] In the above, an example was described in which the vertical position of the tablet terminal 30 is changed depending on the height of the customer CU, but the registration device 20 in this modified example is also capable of performing similar processing for the front-to-rear position and the angle of the display 36.

[0155] According to this modification, the tablet terminal 30 automatically moves according to the height of the customer CU, without the customer CU or the store clerk CL having to press the movement button 28. This reduces the burden on the customer CU and the store clerk CL.

[0156] (Variation 3) In the above-mentioned modification 2, a description has been given of a configuration in which the tablet terminal 30 is moved based on the image captured by the camera 29. In this modification, a description will be given of a configuration in which the tablet terminal 30 is moved automatically in response to reading of a membership card.

[0157] First, a description will be given of the hardware configuration of the product sales data processing system 10 according to the modified example 3. FIG 17 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the product sales data processing system 10 according to the modified example 3.

[0158] 17, the storage unit 42 according to this modification stores a customer master 225. For example, the customer master 225 is a data table that associates a customer's membership number, a customer's name, an amount of points held by the customer, and a heightwise position of the tablet terminal 30 suitable for the customer.

[0159] For example, the registration device 20 accepts input of information indicating height from the customer CU at the time of member registration, and determines a height position of the tablet terminal 30 suitable for the customer based on the information indicating the height. Note that the registration device 20 may also determine a height position of the tablet terminal 30 suitable for the customer by photographing the customer CU at the time of member registration and measuring the height of the customer CU from the photographed image.

[0160] Next, a description will be given of a functional configuration of the registration device 20 according to Modification 3. Fig. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the registration device 20 according to Modification 3. As shown in Fig. 18, the registration device 20 includes a second acquisition unit 218 as a functional unit in addition to the configuration shown in Fig. 11.

[0161] The second acquisition unit 218 acquires the membership number of the customer CU. For example, the card reader 46 of the accounting device 40 in this modified example reads the membership card of the customer CU. Then, the second acquisition unit 218 cooperates with the communication control unit 211 to acquire the membership number of the customer CU obtained by reading the membership card from the accounting device 40 with the card reader 46. Note that a card reader other than the card reader 46 may be connected to the registration device 20.

[0162] Furthermore, the movement control unit 213 according to this modified example refers to the customer master 225, and identifies the heightwise position of the tablet terminal 30 that corresponds to the membership number of the customer CU acquired by the second acquisition unit 218. Then, the movement control unit 213 controls the movement mechanism 70 to move the tablet terminal 30 to the identified heightwise position.

[0163] In the above, an example was described in which the vertical position of the tablet terminal 30 is changed depending on the membership number of the customer CU, but the registration device 20 in this modified example is also capable of performing similar processing for the front-to-rear position and the angle of the display 36.

[0164] According to this modification, by determining the position of the tablet terminal 30 suitable for the customer CU at the time of member registration, the tablet terminal 30 automatically moves to the position suitable for the customer CU at the time of payment without having to photograph the customer CU with a camera. This reduces the processing load on the control unit 21 of the registration device 20.

[0165] (Variation 4) In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the tablet terminal 30 is placed on the workbench 50. In this modification, a configuration in which the tablet terminal 30 is a wall-mounted type will be described.

[0166] In this modification, a movement mechanism 70 is provided on the wall of the store instead of the workbench 50. This allows the tablet terminal 30 to be moved in the height direction, as in the above-described embodiment. Also, the angle of the display 36 of the tablet terminal 30 can be changed.

[0167] The configurations and functions of the devices in the product sales data processing system 10 may all be integrated into the tablet terminal 30, so that the registration process and the payment process can be executed by a single tablet terminal 30.

[0168] According to this modification, the product sales data processing system 10 can be introduced into a store where the space for installing the workbench 50 is not available.

[0169] (Variation 5) In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the movement button 28 is directly connected to the registration device 20. In this modified example, a configuration will be described in which the movement button 28 is connected to the registration device 20 via a repeater.

[0170] The product sales data processing system 10 according to this modification includes an I / O box. The I / O box is a device to which devices such as a tablet terminal 30, a scanner 25, a deposit / withdrawal device 45, a card reader 46, and a receipt printer 47 can be freely combined and connected. The I / O box is an example of a repeater. In this modification, the control unit 21 and the movement button 28 of the registration device 20 are connected to the I / O box by cables.

[0171] In this modified example, an electrical signal generated by pressing the movement button 28 is transmitted to the control unit 21 of the registration device 20 via the I / O box.

[0172] According to this modification, even if the registration device 20 and the movement button 28 are not directly connected, an electrical signal generated by pressing the movement button 28 can be transmitted to the registration device 20. This improves the degree of freedom in the installation position of the movement button 28.

[0173] (Variation 6) In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the registration device 20, tablet terminal 30, and accounting device 40 are separate entities. However, the functions of the registration device 20, tablet terminal 30, and accounting device 40 may be realized by a single device. Furthermore, the registration device 20 or the tablet terminal 30 may have some of the functions of the accounting device 40. Furthermore, the tablet terminal 30 or the accounting device 40 may have some of the functions of the registration device 20.

[0174] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0175] 10. Product sales data processing system 20 Registration device 21 Control section 25 Scanner 26 Touch Panel 27 Clerk side display 30 Tablet devices 31 Control Unit 35 Touch Panel 36 Display 40 Accounting Equipment 41 Control section 45 Cash deposit / withdrawal device 46 Card Reader 47 Receipt Printer 70 Moving mechanism 211 Communication Control Unit 212 Registration Department 213 Movement control section 214 Display control unit 215 Operation control section 311 Communication Control Unit 312 Display control unit 313 Operation control section 411 Communication Control Unit 412 Payment processing unit 413 Display control unit 414 Operation control section [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0176] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-281622 A

Claims

1. a tablet terminal provided on a workbench for performing work related to the sale of products and operated by a customer who purchases the product; a movement mechanism that supports the tablet terminal and is capable of moving a position of the tablet terminal with respect to the work table; a movement control unit that controls the movement mechanism in response to an operation instructing the tablet terminal to move, thereby moving the tablet terminal; A product sales data processing device comprising:

2. the moving mechanism moves a position of the tablet terminal relative to the work table in a vertical direction; the movement control unit, when receiving an operation to move the tablet terminal in a vertical direction, controls the movement mechanism to move the tablet terminal in a vertical direction; The product sales data processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the movement mechanism controls the amount of movement of the tablet terminal in the vertical direction in accordance with an operation time of the operation. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1 .

4. the movement control unit moves the tablet terminal to a predetermined height when a predetermined time has elapsed after the tablet terminal has been moved; The product sales data processing device according to claim 1 .

5. A camera that photographs a customer operating the tablet device; A measuring unit that measures the height of the customer photographed by the camera, The movement control unit moves the tablet terminal to a height corresponding to the measured height of the customer. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1 .

6. An acquisition unit for acquiring customer identification information; the movement control unit moves the tablet terminal to a position in a height direction corresponding to the identification information, based on the identification information and correspondence information that associates the identification information with a position in a height direction of the tablet terminal. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1 .

7. the movement mechanism performs at least one of moving a position of the tablet terminal relative to the work table in a horizontal direction and moving a position of the tablet terminal relative to the work table in a tilt direction; the movement control unit, when receiving an operation to move the tablet terminal in a vertical direction, controls the movement mechanism to move the tablet terminal in a vertical direction, and, when receiving an operation to move the tablet terminal in a tilt direction, controls the movement mechanism to move the tablet terminal in a tilt direction, at least one of these.

7. A product sales data processing device according to claim 1.

8. a tablet terminal provided on a workbench for performing work related to the sale of products and operated by a customer who purchases the product; a movement mechanism for supporting the tablet terminal and capable of moving a position of the tablet terminal relative to the work table, A program that functions as a movement control unit that controls the movement mechanism in response to an operation instructing the tablet terminal to move, thereby moving the tablet terminal.

Images