Article registration device, article sales data processing system, and program

Abstract

To provide an article registration device, an article sales data processing system, and a program that can prevent congestion at a settlement device.SOLUTION: An article registration device includes: an article code reader (reader) that reads an article code (identification information) and allows a customer to register the identification information of an article to be purchased through his / her own operation; an article registration unit (registration unit) that generates article registration information in which the article code read by the article code reader is registered; an article registration information transmission unit that transmits the article registration information to a settlement device that performs settlement processing for the article registration information after the generation of the article registration information for one transaction is completed; a mode change unit that enables the cashless settlement for the article registration information on the condition that an operation instruction to enable the cashless settlement is obtained; and a settlement processing unit that performs cashless settlement for the article registration information when the mode change unit enables execution of cashless settlement at the self-device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a product registration device, a product sales data processing system, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a POS system has been proposed that includes a registration device for a customer to register a product to be purchased by himself / herself, and a settlement device for performing settlement related to the registered data (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In such a POS system, when the settlement device is in use, there is a problem that even if the registration of a product is completed, it is not possible to move to the settlement device. In addition, there is a risk that customers waiting for settlement will stay and become congested at the settlement device.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a product registration device, a product sales data processing system, and a program that can prevent congestion of the settlement device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The product registration device according to the embodiment is configured to allow a customer to register identification information of a product purchased by his / her own operation, and includes a reading unit, a registration unit, a product registration information transmission unit, a mode change unit, and a settlement processing unit. The reading unit reads the identification information of the product. The registration unit generates product registration information in which the identification information read by the reading unit is registered. The product registration information transmission unit transmits the product registration information to a settlement device that performs settlement processing after the generation of the product registration information related to one transaction is completed. The mode change unit enables the execution of cashless settlement related to the product registration information on the condition that an operation instruction enabling the execution of cashless settlement is acquired. The settlement processing unit performs cashless settlement related to the product registration information when the mode change unit enables the execution of cashless settlement in the own device.

[0006] In addition, the product sales data processing system of the embodiment includes a product registration device, a settlement device, and an attendant terminal that are communicably connected to each other. The product registration device reads the identification information of the product purchased by the customer and generates product registration information in which the read identification information is registered. In addition, the product registration device performs cashless settlement related to the product registration information upon receiving an instruction from the attendant terminal. The settlement device performs cash settlement or cashless settlement related to the product registration information generated by the product registration device. The attendant terminal gives an instruction to the product registration device to enable the execution of cashless settlement.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 11

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] (Schematic Configuration of Product Sales Data Processing System) The schematic configuration of the product sales data processing system 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of the product sales data processing system according to the embodiment.

[0009] The product sales data processing system 10 is provided in a store such as a shopping center or a convenience store, and includes a product registration device 20, a settlement device 60, and an attendant terminal 80.

[0010] The product registration device 20 allows a customer to register identification information of a product to be purchased by the customer's own operation. More specifically, the product registration device 20 reads a code symbol on which a product code uniquely identifying the product, printed or attached to the product purchased by the customer, is registered. The code symbol is, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or the like. The product registration device 20 registers the product by storing the read product code as product registration information.

[0011] In addition, when the customer selects to pay the price related to the product registration information by non-cash settlement, the product registration device 20 performs a settlement process (also referred to as an accounting process or a settlement process) for paying the price related to the product registration information.

[0012] The settlement device 60 pays the price related to the product registration information generated by the product registration device 20. More specifically, the settlement device 60 performs a settlement process (also referred to as an accounting process or a settlement process) for paying the price related to the product registration information by cash settlement or non-cash settlement.

[0013] A plurality of merchandise registration devices 20 and a plurality of settlement devices 60 are installed respectively. In general, more units of the merchandise registration device 20 are installed than those of the settlement device 60. This is because merchandise registration takes more time than settlement and to prevent customers waiting for merchandise registration from staying put.

[0014] The attendant terminal 80 is a terminal device for a store clerk to monitor the operating states of the merchandise registration device 20 and the settlement device 60. When the store clerk determines from the images captured by the cameras 13 and 14 that the settlement device 60 is congested while the merchandise registration device 20 is not, the store clerk can issue an instruction to the merchandise registration device 20 to make it available for use as a settlement device capable of performing cashless settlement. Also, when there are many customers waiting for merchandise registration as determined by the store clerk from the images captured by the cameras 13 and 14, the store clerk can issue an instruction to the merchandise registration device 20 that is in a state capable of cashless settlement to make it available for use as a merchandise registration device capable of performing merchandise registration.

[0015] The merchandise registration device 20, the settlement device 60, and the attendant terminal 80 are communicably connected to each other via a communication network 12 provided in the store. The communication network 12 is, for example, a wired LAN (Local Area Network) or a wireless LAN.

[0016] Also, the cameras 13 and 14 are connected to the communication network 12.

[0017] The camera 13 is installed at a position where it can capture the line of customers waiting for their turn to use the merchandise registration device 20.

[0018] The camera 14 is installed at a position where it can capture the line of customers waiting for their turn to use the settlement device 60.

[0019] Note that a plurality of cameras 13 and a plurality of cameras 14 may be installed respectively.

[0020] The videos captured by camera 13 and camera 14 are transmitted to the attendant terminal 80. The store clerk operating the attendant terminal 80 monitors in real time the videos captured by camera 13 and camera 14.

[0021] By arranging the merchandise registration device 20 and the settlement device 60 at different positions, the merchandise sales data processing system 10 can distribute customers waiting for settlement between the merchandise registration device 20 and the settlement device 60, thus preventing customers from congregating in one area. Note that an accounting system configured in this way, with the merchandise registration device 20 and the settlement device 60 arranged at different positions, is called a semi-self-service accounting system.

[0022] (Schematic Configuration of the Merchandise Registration Device) Using Fig. 2, the schematic configuration of the merchandise registration device 20 will be described. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the merchandise registration device.

[0023] The merchandise registration device 20 registers a product by having the customer read the identification information of the product to be purchased through their own operation. The identification information of the product is, for example, a product code such as a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code that uniquely identifies the product. The product code is registered in a code symbol such as a barcode printed or affixed to the outer box or packaging of the product.

[0024] Also, the merchandise registration device 20 operates as a settlement device for performing cashless settlement by acquiring predetermined operation information. Cashless settlement means paying the price related to the merchandise registration information registered by the merchandise registration device 20 without using cash. Cashless settlement includes credit settlement, code settlement, electronic money settlement, etc.

[0025] Credit settlement is a settlement method that uses the credit card held by the customer. When performing credit settlement, the customer inserts the credit card they hold into the settlement terminal 27 and causes the settlement to be made by having the personal information and debit account information registered on the credit card read.

[0026] Code settlement is a settlement method in which, for example, payment is made by a settlement application pre-installed on a customer's mobile terminal. When performing code settlement, the customer causes the code symbol to be displayed on their own mobile terminal and allows the displayed code symbol to be read by the scanner 26 to perform the settlement.

[0027] Electronic money settlement is a settlement method in which, for example, payment is made with electronic money charged to an IC card. When performing electronic money settlement, the customer holds their own electronic money card up to the settlement terminal 27 to perform short-range wireless communication with the settlement terminal 27, thereby reading the remaining balance charged to the electronic money card and performing the settlement within the range of the remaining balance.

[0028] The predetermined operation information that enables the merchandise registration device 20 to be used as a settlement device is information indicating that the customer has selected to perform cashless settlement after completing merchandise registration. Also, the predetermined operation information is information indicating that a store clerk operating the attendant terminal 80 has given an instruction to the merchandise registration device 20 to operate as a settlement device.

[0029] The merchandise registration device 20 is provided with various devices for performing merchandise registration at the upper part of the housing 21.

[0030] A merchandise placement table 23 is provided on the side surface of the housing 21. The customer places a shopping basket containing unregistered merchandise on the merchandise placement table 23.

[0031] A merchandise placement table 22 is formed on the upper surface of the housing 21. The customer stores the registered merchandise in the my bag placed on the merchandise placement table 22.

[0032] At the upper part of the housing 21, a display unit 24, an operation unit 25, a scanner 26, a settlement terminal 27, a receipt printer 28, and a warning light 29 are provided.

[0033] The display unit 24 displays various types of information related to product registration to the customer. The various types of information related to product registration are, for example, the registered product information, the total amount, the options for payment methods, etc. The display unit 24 is, for example, a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL monitor.

[0034] The operation unit 25 acquires various types of operation information related to product registration from the customer. The various types of operation information related to product registration are, for example, the instruction to complete registration, the selection result of the payment method, etc. The operation unit 25 is, for example, a touch panel laminated on the display unit 24.

[0035] The scanner 26 reads a code symbol (for example, a barcode) with a product code covered by the reading window 261. The scanner 26 is a so-called fixed-type scanner.

[0036] In addition to the scanner 26, the product registration device 20 may be provided with a hand scanner (not shown). Thus, for heavy items such as rice and boxed beverages for which it is difficult to cover the code symbol with the scanner 26, the code symbol may be read by the hand scanner.

[0037] The payment terminal 27 performs various types of cashless payments. The payment terminal 27 includes a display unit 271, a numeric keypad 272, and a card insertion slot 273. The payment terminal 27 also includes a reader (not shown) that performs short-range wireless communication with an electronic money card or the like.

[0038] The display unit 271 displays various types of information such as operation guidance when performing various types of cashless payments. The display unit 271 is, for example, a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL monitor.

[0039] The numeric keypad 272 is an operation key for inputting various types of PINs related to cashless payments.

[0040] The card insertion slot 273 is an insertion slot for inserting an IC card such as a credit card or an electronic money card when performing cashless payments.

[0041] Note that the payment terminal 27 may further include a scan groove (not shown) for reading a magnetic card.

[0042] The receipt printer 28 issues a receipt on which the result of the payment is printed. Also, when the product registration is completed and the payment is made by the payment device 60, the receipt printer 28 prints and issues a transaction code that uniquely identifies the registered product information (product registration file 323 described later) in the form of a code symbol (for example, a barcode).

[0043] The warning light 29 is installed at the tip of a pole extending upward from the housing 21 and emits light in blue, red, or the like. The warning light 29 emits light with a changed color and lighting pattern according to the operating state of the product registration device 20, thereby prompting the surrounding store clerks and customers to pay attention.

[0044] (Schematic configuration of the payment device) Using FIG. 3, the schematic configuration of the payment device 60 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the payment device.

[0045] The payment device 60 makes a payment for the price related to the product registration information registered by the product registration device 20. The payment device 60 performs cash payment and cashless payment. Cash payment is a payment method using banknotes and coins. Also, the payment device 60 can execute cashless payments such as the credit payment, code payment, and electronic money payment described above.

[0046] The payment device 60 includes various devices for making a payment inside and on the upper part of the housing 61.

[0047] A change dispenser 62 is provided inside the housing 61. The change dispenser 62 accepts payments of banknotes and coins from the customer. Also, the change dispenser 62 pays out change obtained by subtracting the total tax-included amount registered in the product registration information from the total amount paid by the customer, as banknotes or coins.

[0048] The customer inserts coins through the coin insertion slot 621. Also, the customer inserts banknotes through the banknote insertion slot 623.

[0049] The change dispenser 62 pays out a predetermined amount of change from the coin payout opening 622 or the bill payout opening 624.

[0050] On the upper part of the housing 61, a display unit 63, an operation unit 64, a scanner 65, a payment terminal 66, a receipt printer 67, and a warning lamp 68 are provided.

[0051] The display unit 63 displays various pieces of information related to settlement to the customer. The various pieces of information related to settlement are, for example, product registration information related to settlement, options for payment methods, guidance on operation methods, and the like. The display unit 63 is, for example, a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL monitor.

[0052] The operation unit 64 acquires various pieces of operation information related to settlement from the customer. The various pieces of operation information related to settlement are, for example, the selection result of a payment method and the like. The operation unit 64 is, for example, a touch panel laminated on the display unit 63.

[0053] The scanner 65 reads the transaction code issued by the product registration device 20 that is shaded on the reading window 651. The settlement device 60 reads out the product registration information corresponding to the transaction code read by the scanner 65 and prepares to perform settlement related to the product registration information. Further, when the customer is performing store membership registration, the transaction code previously transmitted to the customer's mobile terminal may be displayed and read by the scanner 65.

[0054] The payment terminal 66 performs various cashless payments. The payment terminal 66 includes a display unit 661, a numeric keypad 662, and a card insertion slot 663. Note that the configuration of the payment terminal 66 is the same as the configuration of the aforementioned payment terminal 27 provided in the product registration device 20.

[0055] Note that the payment terminal 66 may further include a scan groove (not shown) for reading a magnetic card.

[0056] The receipt printer 67 issues a receipt on which the result of the settlement is printed.

[0057] The warning lamp 68 is installed at the tip of a pole extending upward from the housing 61 and emits light in blue, red, or the like. The warning lamp 68 emits light while changing its color and lighting pattern according to the operating state of the settlement device 60, thereby prompting the surrounding store clerks to pay attention.

[0058] (Hardware Configuration of the Product Registration Device) Using FIG. 4, the hardware configuration of the product registration device 20 will be described. FIG. 4 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the product registration device.

[0059] The product registration device 20 has a configuration in which a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a peripheral device controller 34, and a communication controller 35 are connected to each other by an internal bus 33.

[0060] The control unit 31 controls the overall operation of the product registration device 20. The control unit 31 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 311, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 312, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 313. The CPU 311 is connected to the ROM 312 and the RAM 313 via an internal bus such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 311 expands various programs stored in the ROM 312 and the storage unit 32 into the RAM 313. The CPU 311 controls the operation of the product registration device 20 by operating according to the various programs expanded in the RAM 313. That is, the control unit 31 has the configuration of a general computer.

[0061] The storage unit 32 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). Further, the storage unit 32 may be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 32 stores a control program 321, a product master 322, a product registration file 323, and a settlement file 324.

[0062] The control program 321 is a program that controls the overall operation of the product registration device 20. The control program 321 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 32, or may be provided by being recorded on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD in an installable format or an executable format file. Further, the control program 321 may be stored on a computer connected to a network and provided by being downloaded via the network. Furthermore, the control program 321 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0063] The product master 322 is a master file that stores product information such as the product name and price of products to be sold. In the product master 322, a product name, a unit price, additional information, etc. are stored in association with a product code. Since the content of the product master 322 is updated at any time, the product registration device 20 acquires the latest product master 322 from, for example, a store server (not shown) via the communication controller 35.

[0064] The product registration file 323 is a file that stores product information corresponding to the product code read by the product registration device 20. The information stored in the product registration file 323 becomes the object of settlement when settlement processing is performed. Note that the product registration file 323 is stored in association with a transaction code. The product registration file 323 is an example of the product registration information in the present disclosure.

[0065] The settlement file 324 is a file that stores the settlement details performed by the settlement terminal 27 provided in the product registration device 20. The settlement file 324 stores the settlement date and time, the settlement method, etc. in addition to the content stored in the product registration file 323.

[0066] The control unit 31 is connected to a display unit 24, an operation unit 25, a scanner 26, a payment terminal 27, a receipt printer 28, and a warning lamp 29, which perform input and output of various information via a peripheral device controller 34. The overview of each input / output device is as described above. Note that the control unit 31 may be connected to a speaker (not shown) via the peripheral device controller 34. The speaker may provide voice guidance to the customer regarding various operation guides in the merchandise registration device 20 and guidance to the payment device 60 to be moved for settlement, etc.

[0067] Also, the control unit 31 communicates with a payment device 60 and an attendant terminal 80 via a communication controller 35. The merchandise registration device 20 outputs a merchandise registration file 323 to the payment device 60. Also, the merchandise registration device 20 outputs to the attendant terminal 80 whether its operation mode is a merchandise registration mode for performing merchandise registration or a settlement mode for performing cashless payment. Also, the merchandise registration device 20 acquires an instruction to switch the operation mode from the attendant terminal 80.

[0068] (Hardware Configuration of Payment Device) The hardware configuration of the payment device 60 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the payment device.

[0069] The payment device 60 has a configuration in which a control unit 71, a storage unit 72, a peripheral device controller 74, and a communication controller 75 are connected to each other by an internal bus 33.

[0070] The control unit 71 controls the overall operation of the payment device 60. The control unit 71 includes a CPU 711, a ROM 712, and a RAM 713. The CPU 711 is connected to the ROM 712 and the RAM 713 via an internal bus such as an address bus and a data bus. The CPU 711 expands various programs stored in the ROM 712 and the storage unit 72 into the RAM 713. The CPU 711 controls the operation of the payment device 60 by operating according to the various programs expanded in the RAM 713. That is, the control unit 71 has a configuration of a general computer.

[0071] The storage unit 72 is a storage device such as an HDD or an SSD. Further, the storage unit 72 may be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 72 stores a control program 721, a product registration file 722, and a settlement file 723.

[0072] The control program 721 is a program that controls the overall operation of the settlement device 60. The control program 721 may be provided in a state stored in the storage unit 72, or may be provided as a file in an installable or executable format recorded on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD. Further, the control program 721 may be stored on a computer connected to a network and provided by downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the control program 721 may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0073] The product registration file 722 is a file that stores product information corresponding to the product code of the registered product transmitted from the product registration device 20. The product registration file 722 is stored in a state associated with a transaction code. The product registration file 722 is an example of the product registration information in the present disclosure.

[0074] The settlement file 723 is a file that stores the settlement details performed by the settlement terminal 66 and the change dispenser 62 provided in the settlement device 60. The settlement file 723 stores the settlement date and time, the settlement method, etc. in addition to the content stored in the product registration file 722.

[0075] The control unit 71 is connected to a display unit 63, an operation unit 64, a scanner 65, a settlement terminal 66, a change dispenser 62, a receipt printer 67, and a warning lamp 68 that perform input and output of various information via a peripheral device controller 74. The outline of each input / output device is as described above.

[0076] In addition, the control unit 71 communicates with the product registration device 20 and the attendant terminal 80 via the communication controller 75. The settlement device 60 acquires the product registration file 323 from the product registration device 20. Further, the settlement device 60 receives a transmission request for the product registration file 722 from the product registration device 20 that has transitioned to the settlement mode at the instruction of the attendant terminal 80. Furthermore, when the settlement device 60 receives a transmission request for the product registration file 722 from the product registration device 20, the settlement device 60 transmits the product registration file 722 to the product registration device 20.

[0077] (Screen Transition of Product Registration Device) Using FIG. 6, the screen transition displayed on the display unit 24 of the product registration device 20 will be described. FIG. 6 is a state transition diagram showing an example of the screen transition displayed on the display unit of the product registration device.

[0078] Before starting the registration of a product, a registration start button a is displayed on the display unit 24 of the product registration device 20 (screen Sa).

[0079] When the customer presses the registration start button a when starting product registration, screen Sb is displayed on the display unit 24. On screen Sb, there is a guidance to scan the product and an attendant call button b.

[0080] When the customer does not know how to operate the product registration device 20 or when the product registration device 20 performs an unexpected operation, etc., the customer presses the attendant call button b. When the attendant call button b is pressed, the product registration device 20 lights or blinks the warning light 29 in a predetermined color. The store clerk who notices the warning light 29 moves to the customer's place, checks the situation, and takes corresponding measures.

[0081] When the customer causes the scanner 26 to read the code information attached to the product, a product information list showing the product information (product name, quantity, amount) corresponding to the read product code is displayed on the display unit 24 (screen Sc). Also, on screen Sc, the total amount including tax, the attendant call button b, the registration completion button c, and the cancel button d are displayed.

[0082] The registration completion button c is a button to be pressed when the registration of all products is completed. When the registration completion button c is pressed, a screen (screen Sd) for selecting a payment method is displayed on the display unit 24.

[0083] The cancel button d is a button to be pressed when canceling the last registered product. When the cancel button d is pressed, the registration of the last registered product is canceled, and the information of the corresponding product is deleted from the product registration information displayed on the screen Sc.

[0084] On the screen Sc, when the code symbol of another product is read, the product information corresponding to the read product code is added to the product information list. Then, the total amount including tax is added. The product information list displayed on the screen Sc is sequentially scrolled upward, and only the number of product information corresponding to the size of the display unit 24 is displayed in the product information list.

[0085] On the screen Sd displayed when the registration completion button c is pressed, the total payment amount, the staff call button b, the cash button e, and the cashless button f are displayed.

[0086] When the customer makes a cash payment, the customer presses the cash button e. On the other hand, when the customer makes a cashless payment, the customer presses the cashless button f.

[0087] On the screen Sd, when the cash button e is pressed, the screen transitions to the screen Sf. On the other hand, on the screen Sd, when the cashless button f is pressed, the screen transitions to the screen Se.

[0088] On the screen Sf, information indicating that a transaction code is issued, information indicating to move to the cash register 60 with the issued transaction code, and the staff call button b are displayed. Then, when the product registration device 20 issues a transaction code from the receipt printer 28, the screen transitions to the screen Sa.

[0089] On the screen Se, information indicating that cashless payment is to be made using the payment terminal 27 and the staff call button b are displayed. Then, when the merchandise registration device 20 completes the payment process, the screen changes to the screen Sa.

[0090] (Functional Configuration of the Merchandise Registration Device) Using FIG. 7, the functional configuration of the merchandise registration device 20 will be described. FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the merchandise registration device.

[0091] The control unit 31 of the merchandise registration device 20 expands the control program 321 in the RAM 313 and operates it, thereby realizing, as functional units, the product code reading unit 41, the product registration unit 42, the payment method receiving unit 43, the transaction code issuing unit 44, the product registration information transmitting unit 45, the mode changing unit 46, the settlement processing unit 47, the mode change receiving unit 48, the product registration information receiving unit 49, and the operation mode monitoring unit 50 shown in FIG. 7. Note that some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0092] The product code reading unit 41 reads the product code (an example of identification information) of the product registered in the code symbol covered by the scanner 26. The product code reading unit 41 is an example of the reading unit in the present disclosure.

[0093] The product registration unit 42 generates a product registration file 323 (an example of product registration information) in which the product code read by the product code reading unit 41 is registered. The product registration unit 42 is an example of the registration unit in the present disclosure.

[0094] After the generation of the product registration file 323 by the product registration unit 42 is completed, the payment method receiving unit 43 receives information indicating whether to perform the payment related to the product registration information in cash or by cashless payment based on the customer's operation.

[0095] After the generation of the product registration information by the product registration unit 42 is completed, the transaction code issuing unit 44 issues a transaction code that uniquely identifies the product registration file 323.

[0096] After the generation of the product registration file 323 related to one transaction is completed, the product registration information transmission unit 45 transmits the generated product registration file 323 to the settlement device 60 that performs the settlement process related to the product registration file 323. The product registration information transmission unit 45 transmits the product registration file 323 to the settlement device 60 at least when the customer selects to perform cash settlement. Note that the product registration information transmission unit 45 may transmit the product registration file 323 to all the settlement devices 60, or may transmit the product registration file 323 only to the settlement devices 60 that are in the standby state. The fact that the settlement device 60 is in the standby state can be known by acquiring information from the attendant terminal 80 that monitors the state of the settlement device 60.

[0097] The mode change unit 46 enables the non-cash settlement related to the product registration file 323 in the product registration device 20 on the condition that an operation instruction for enabling the non-cash settlement is acquired. In addition, after the completion of the non-cash settlement, the mode change unit 46 changes the product registration device 20 to the product registration mode in which product registration is possible. Further, the mode change unit 46 changes its operation mode to either the product registration mode or the settlement mode on the condition that an instruction from the attendant terminal 80 is acquired.

[0098] When the mode change unit 46 enables the non-cash settlement in the product registration device 20, the settlement processing unit 47 performs the non-cash settlement related to the product registration file 323 by the settlement terminal 27. More specifically, the settlement processing unit 47 causes the settlement terminal 27 to communicate with an external server (not shown) according to the non-cash settlement method, thereby causing the external server to perform the non-cash settlement related to the product registration file 323. In addition, the settlement processing unit 47 monitors whether the settlement terminal 27 provided in the product registration device 20 is in a usable state.

[0099] The mode change reception unit 48 is communicably connected to the merchandise registration device 20 and, upon receiving an instruction from the attendant terminal 80 operated by a store clerk, enables the execution of cashless payment related to the merchandise registration file 323 in the merchandise registration device 20. Further, the mode change reception unit 48 may, upon receiving an instruction from the attendant terminal 80, prevent the execution of cashless payment in the merchandise registration device 20. That is, in FIG. 6, after the registration of a product is completed on the screen Sc, instead of transitioning to the screen Sd for selecting a payment method, it may be configured to transition to the screen Sf for issuing a transaction code. This is to increase the rotation rate of the merchandise registration device 20 by moving customers who perform cashless payment to the settlement device 60 when there are many customers waiting for merchandise registration and there is an available space in the settlement device 60. The timing for issuing such an instruction for mode change is determined by the store clerk operating the attendant terminal 80 while monitoring the images of the cameras 13 and 14. Note that, by implementing a function in the attendant terminal 80 to analyze the images of the cameras 13 and 14 and determine the degree of customer congestion, the timing for issuing an instruction for mode change may be automatically determined without the intervention of the store clerk.

[0100] When the mode change reception unit 48 enables the execution of cashless payment in the merchandise registration device 20, the merchandise registration information reception unit 49 receives the merchandise registration file 722 from the settlement device 60.

[0101] The operation mode monitor unit 50 monitors whether it is operating in the merchandise registration mode for performing merchandise registration, the settlement mode for performing cashless payment related to the merchandise registration file 323, or is in a standby state. The operation mode monitor unit 50 transmits the monitored result to the attendant terminal 80 at any time.

[0102] (Functional Configuration of Settlement Device) The functional configuration of the settlement device 60 will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the settlement device.

[0103] The control unit 71 of the actuarial device 60 realizes, by expanding and operating the control program 721 in the RAM 713, a product registration information receiving unit 81, a transaction code reading unit 82, a product registration information reading unit 83, an actuarial processing unit 84, a mode change monitoring unit 85, a product registration information transmitting unit 86, and an operation state monitoring unit 87 shown in FIG. 8 as functional units. Note that some or all of these functional units may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0104] The product registration information receiving unit 81 receives the product registration file 323 transmitted by the product registration information transmitting unit 45 of the product registration device 20.

[0105] The transaction code reading unit 82 reads the transaction code presented by the customer to the scanner 65.

[0106] The product registration information reading unit 83 reads out from the storage unit 72 the product registration file 722 corresponding to the transaction code read by the transaction code reading unit 82.

[0107] The actuarial processing unit 84 performs cash settlement or cashless settlement related to the product registration file 722.

[0108] The mode change monitoring unit 85 monitors which product registration device 20 the attendant terminal 80 has instructed to change to the actuarial mode.

[0109] The product registration information transmitting unit 86 transmits the product registration file 722 stored in its own storage unit 72 to the product registration device 20 instructed by the attendant terminal 80 to change to the actuarial mode.

[0110] The operation state monitoring unit 87 monitors whether its own operation state is at least in a standby state or in an actuarial processing state. The operation state monitoring unit 87 transmits the monitored result to the attendant terminal 80 at any time.

[0111] (Flow of processing performed by the product registration device) Using FIG. 9, the flow of processing performed by the product registration device 20 of the embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of product registration processing performed by the product registration device.

[0112] The product code reading unit 41 reads the product code of the product registered in the code symbol held by the scanner 26 (step S11).

[0113] The product registration unit 42 updates the product registration file 323 by registering the product code read by the product code reading unit 41 in the product registration file 323 (step S12).

[0114] The product registration unit 42 determines whether the product registration has been completed (step S13). If it is determined that the product registration has been completed (step S13: Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product registration has not been completed (step S13: No), the process returns to step S11. Note that the product registration unit 42 determines that the product registration has been completed when it detects that the registration completion button c (see FIG. 6) has been pressed.

[0115] In step S13, when it is determined that the product registration has been completed, the payment method reception unit 43 determines whether the customer wishes to pay in cash (step S14). If it is determined that the customer wishes to pay in cash (step S14: Yes), the process proceeds to step S15. On the other hand, if it is determined that the customer does not wish to pay in cash (step S14: No), the process proceeds to step S17. Note that the payment method reception unit 43 determines that the customer wishes to pay in cash when it detects that the cash button e (see FIG. 6) has been pressed.

[0116] In step S14, when it is determined that the customer wishes to pay in cash, the transaction code issuing unit 44 issues a transaction code that uniquely identifies the merchandise registration file 323 (step S15). The issued transaction code is printed in the form of, for example, a barcode and issued from the receipt printer 28. Also, when the customer has completed the membership registration at the store, the merchandise registration device 20 may transmit the issued transaction code to a mobile terminal such as a smartphone registered by the customer.

[0117] Subsequently, the merchandise registration information transmission unit 45 transmits the merchandise registration file 323 to the settlement device 60 that performs the settlement process related to the merchandise registration file 323 (step S16). At this time, as described above, the merchandise registration device 20 may transmit the merchandise registration file 323 to all the settlement devices 60, or may transmit the merchandise registration file 323 only to the settlement device 60 in the standby state. Which settlement device 60 is in the standby state may be determined, for example, by acquiring the operating state of the settlement device 60 that the attendant terminal 80 monitors at any time. Note that when the merchandise registration file 323 is transmitted only to the settlement device 60 in the standby state, the merchandise registration information transmission unit 45 instructs the customer by displaying on the display unit 24 which settlement device 60 to use for settlement. Thereafter, the merchandise registration device 20 ends the process of FIG. 9.

[0118] On the other hand, in step S14, when it is not determined that the customer wishes to pay in cash, that is, when it is determined that the customer wishes to pay by non-cash settlement, the settlement processing unit 47 determines whether the payment terminal 27 provided in the merchandise registration device 20 is in a usable state (step S17). When it is determined that the payment terminal 27 is in a usable state (step S17: Yes), the process proceeds to step S18. On the other hand, when it is determined that the payment terminal 27 is not in a usable state (step S17: No), the process proceeds to step S15.

[0119] In step S17, when it is determined that the payment terminal 27 is in a usable state, the mode change unit 46 changes the merchandise registration device 20 to a settlement mode in which non-cash settlement is possible (step S18).

[0120] The settlement processing unit 47 performs settlement processing by cashless settlement related to the product registration file 323 using the settlement terminal 27 (step S19).

[0121] When the settlement processing is completed, the mode change unit 46 changes the product registration device 20 to the product registration mode (step S20). Thereafter, the product registration device 20 ends the processing of FIG. 9.

[0122] (Flow of processing performed by the settlement device) Using FIG. 10, the flow of processing performed by the settlement device 60 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of settlement processing performed by the settlement device. It is assumed that the product registration information receiving unit 81 of the settlement device 60 has received the product registration file from the product registration device 20 in advance.

[0123] The transaction code reading unit 82 reads the transaction code presented to the scanner 65 (step S31).

[0124] The product registration information reading unit 83 reads out the product registration file corresponding to the transaction code read in step S31 from among the product registration files 722 stored in the storage unit 72 (step S32).

[0125] The settlement processing unit 84 performs settlement processing related to the product registration file read in step S32 (step S33). Thereafter, the settlement device 60 ends the processing of FIG. 10.

[0126] (Flow of mode change processing performed by the product registration device) Using FIG. 11, the flow of mode change processing performed by the product registration device 20 in response to an instruction from the attendant terminal 80 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of mode change processing performed by the product registration device in response to an instruction from the attendant terminal.

[0127] When the merchandise registration device 20 is in a standby state, it receives a mode change request instructed from the attendant terminal 80 at an arbitrary timing, and changes its own operation state to either the merchandise registration mode or the settlement mode. That is, the merchandise registration device 20 executes the processing of the flowchart in FIG. 11 as an interrupt process. Note that a store clerk operating the attendant terminal 80 monitors, for example, the images captured by the cameras 13 and 14. When the settlement device 60 is congested and the merchandise registration device 20 is available, the store clerk changes the merchandise registration device 20 to the settlement mode, thereby increasing the number of devices capable of executing settlement processing and improving the customer turnover rate. Further, when the merchandise registration device 20 is congested, the attendant terminal 80 prevents customers waiting for registration from staying by changing the merchandise registration device 20 operating in the settlement mode to the merchandise registration mode.

[0128] The mode change unit 46 determines whether there is a mode change instruction from the attendant terminal 80 (step S41). If it is determined that there is a mode change instruction (step S41: Yes), the process proceeds to step S42. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no mode change instruction (step S41: No), the merchandise registration device 20 ends the processing in FIG. 11.

[0129] In step S41, when it is determined that there is a mode change instruction, the operation mode monitor unit 50 determines whether it is in a standby state (step S42). If it is determined that it is in a standby state (step S42: Yes), the process proceeds to step S43. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not in a standby state (step S42: No), step S42 is repeated.

[0130] In step S42, when it is determined whether it is in a standby state, the operation mode monitor unit 50 determines whether it is operating in the merchandise registration mode (step S43). If it is determined that it is operating in the merchandise registration mode (step S43: Yes), the process proceeds to step S44. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not operating in the merchandise registration mode (step S43: No), the process proceeds to step S45.

[0131] In step S43, when it is determined that the device itself is operating in the product registration mode, the mode changing unit 46 changes its operating mode to the settlement mode (step S44). Thereafter, the product registration device 20 ends the process of FIG. 11. When the product registration device 20 changes to the settlement mode, the product registration device 20 may change the display of the warning lamp 29, for example, to a form that indicates that it is operating in the settlement mode.

[0132] On the other hand, in step S43, when it is determined that the device itself is not operating in the product registration mode, the mode changing unit 46 changes its operating mode to the product registration mode (step S45). Thereafter, the product registration device 20 ends the process of FIG. 11. When the product registration device 20 changes to the product registration mode, the product registration device 20 may change the display of the warning lamp 29, for example, to a form that indicates that it is operating in the product registration mode.

[0133] In this embodiment, the product registration device 20 has been described as outputting the product registration file 323 to all the settlement devices 60. However, the product registration device 20 may output the product registration file 323 to a server device (not shown). Then, the settlement device 60 may read the product registration file corresponding to the read transaction code from the server device and perform settlement. Also, when the product registration device 20 operates in the settlement mode, it may read the product registration file corresponding to the read transaction code from the server device and perform settlement. By adopting such a configuration, the product registration device 20 does not need to exchange the product registration file with the settlement device 60, so that the process can be performed efficiently.

[0134] (Function and effect of the embodiment) As described above, the product registration device 20 of the present embodiment allows a customer to register the identification information of the product to be purchased by their own operation. It includes a product code reading unit 41 (reading unit) that reads a product code (identification information), a product registration unit 42 (registration unit) that generates product registration information in which the product code read by the product code reading unit 41 is registered, and after the generation of the product registration information related to one transaction is completed, a product registration information transmission unit 45 that transmits the product registration information to a settlement device 60 that performs settlement processing related to the product registration information, a mode change unit 46 that enables the execution of cashless settlement related to the product registration information on the condition that an operation instruction enabling the execution of cashless settlement is obtained, and an settlement processing unit 47 that performs cashless settlement related to the product registration information when the mode change unit 46 enables the execution of cashless settlement in the own device. Therefore, congestion of the settlement device 60 can be prevented. In addition, since the payment method supported by the product registration device 20 is limited to cashless settlement, in the conventional semi-self POS system, the product registration device 20 of the present embodiment can be formed by simply adding a settlement terminal to the product registration device, that is, with a small investment.

[0135] In addition, after the generation of the product registration information by the product registration unit 42 (registration unit) of the product registration device 20 of the present embodiment is completed, the product registration device 20 further includes a payment method reception unit 43 that receives information indicating whether to perform settlement related to the product registration information by cash settlement or cashless settlement based on the customer's operation. When the payment method reception unit 43 receives information indicating that cash settlement is to be performed, the product registration information transmission unit 45 transmits the product registration information to a settlement device 60 that performs settlement processing related to the product registration information. When the payment method reception unit 43 receives information indicating that cashless settlement is to be performed, the mode change unit 46 enables the execution of cashless settlement related to the product registration information. Therefore, it is possible to easily determine whether to perform settlement with the product registration device 20 or with the settlement device 60 according to the payment method selected by the customer.

[0136] In addition, the product registration device 20 of the present embodiment further includes a mode change reception unit 48 that is communicably connected to the product registration device 20 and receives an instruction from an attendant terminal 80 operated by a store clerk, and enables the execution of cashless payment for product registration information in the device itself. Therefore, the store clerk can monitor the store and enable cashless payment with the product registration device 20 at the necessary timing. This can prevent customers waiting for settlement from staying.

[0137] In addition, when the mode change reception unit 48 of the product registration device 20 of the present embodiment enables the execution of cashless payment in the device itself, the product registration device 20 further includes a product registration information reception unit 49 that receives product registration information from the settlement device 60. The settlement processing unit 47 performs cashless payment for the product registration information specified by the transaction code among the product registration information received by the product registration information reception unit 49. Therefore, among the customers waiting for settlement at the settlement device 60, customers who perform cashless payment can return to the product registration device 20 and perform their own settlement. This can reduce the stay of customers waiting for settlement. Note that the fact that cashless payment has become possible at the product registration device 20 may be notified to customers waiting for settlement, for example, by a store clerk operating the attendant terminal 80 making an in-store announcement.

[0138] In addition, the product sales data processing system 10 of the present embodiment includes a product registration device 20 that is communicably connected to each other, reads identification information of a product purchased by a customer, generates product registration information in which the read identification information is registered, and performs cashless payment related to the product registration information in response to an instruction from the attendant terminal 80, a settlement device 60 that performs cash settlement or cashless payment related to the product registration information generated by the product registration device 20, and an attendant terminal 80 that gives an instruction to the product registration device 20 to enable the execution of cashless payment. Therefore, congestion of the settlement device 60 can be prevented.

[0139] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, these embodiments are presented as 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, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0140] 10 Product sales data processing system 12 Communication network 13, 14 Camera 20 Product registration device 21 Housing 22, 23 Product placement stand 24 Display unit 25 Operation unit 26 Scanner 261 Reading window 27 Settlement terminal 28 Receipt printer 29 Warning lamp 322 Product master 323 Product registration file (product registration information) 324 Settlement file 41 Product code reading unit (reading unit) 42 Product registration unit (registration unit) 43 Payment method reception unit 44 Transaction code issuing unit 45 Product registration information transmission unit 46 Mode change unit 47 Settlement processing unit 48 Mode change reception unit 49 Product registration information reception unit 50 Operation mode monitoring unit 60 Settlement device 61 Housing 62 Change dispenser 63 Display unit 64 Operation unit 65 Scanner 651 Reading window 66 Payment terminal 67 Receipt printer 68 Warning lamp 722 Product registration file (product registration information) 723 Payment file 80 Attendant terminal 81 Product registration information receiving section 82 Transaction code reading section 83 Product registration information reading section 84 Settlement processing section 85 Mode change monitoring section 86 Product registration information transmission section 87 Operating status monitoring section a Registration start button b Staff call button c Registration completion button d Cancel button e Cash button f Cashless button

Prior art documents

Patent documents

[0141]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. A product registration device that allows a customer to register identification information of a product to be purchased through their own operation, A reading unit that reads the identification information of the product, A registration unit that generates product registration information in which the identification information read by the reading unit is registered, After the generation of the product registration information related to one transaction is completed, a product registration information transmission unit that transmits the product registration information to a settlement device that performs settlement processing related to the product registration information, A mode change unit that enables cashless settlement related to the product registration information on the condition that an operation instruction enabling cashless settlement is obtained, When the mode change unit enables cashless settlement in the own device, a settlement processing unit that performs cashless settlement related to the product registration information, comprising Product registration device.

2. After the generation of the product registration information by the registration unit is completed, further comprising a payment method reception unit that receives information indicating whether to perform settlement related to the product registration information by cash settlement or cashless settlement based on the operation of the customer, When the payment method reception unit receives information indicating that cash settlement is to be performed, the product registration information transmission unit transmits the product registration information to a settlement device that performs settlement processing related to the product registration information, When the payment method reception unit receives information indicating that cashless settlement is to be performed, the mode change unit enables cashless settlement related to the product registration information, The product registration device according to claim 1.

3. Further comprising a mode change reception unit that is communicably connected to the product registration device and receives an instruction from an attendant terminal operated by a store clerk to enable cashless settlement related to the product registration information in the own device, The product registration device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. When the mode change reception unit enables cashless payment in the own device, the product registration information reception unit further receives product registration information from the settlement device, The settlement processing unit performs cashless payment for the product registration information specified by the transaction code among the product registration information received by the product registration information reception unit. The product registration device according to claim 3.

5. Connected to be communicable with each other, A product registration device that reads identification information of a product purchased by a customer, generates product registration information in which the read identification information is registered, and performs cashless payment related to the product registration information in response to an instruction from an attendant terminal, A settlement device that performs cash settlement or cashless payment related to the product registration information generated by the product registration device, An attendant terminal that gives an instruction to enable the execution of cashless payment to the product registration device, comprising A product sales data processing system.

6. A computer that controls a product registration device for a customer to register a product purchased by the customer's own operation, A reading unit that reads identification information of a product, A registration unit that generates product registration information in which the identification information read by the reading unit is registered, After the generation of the product registration information by the registration unit is completed, a product registration information transmission unit that transmits the product registration information to a settlement device that performs settlement processing related to the product registration information, A mode change unit that enables the execution of cashless payment related to the product registration information on the condition that operation information is acquired, A settlement processing unit that performs cashless payment related to the product registration information when the mode change unit enables cashless payment, A program for causing it to function.

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