System and program

Abstract

To reduce the work load of sales clerks.SOLUTION: Provided is a POS system comprising a registration device operated by a sales clerk to register a commodity to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of settlement devices operated by customers themselves to settle payment on the basis of registered data of the commodity. The registration device includes transmission means for transmitting the registration data to the settlement device, and the settlement device includes settlement-side selection means for receiving selection of a payment method and operated by customers themselves to pay the price of the commodity being purchased, and settlement means for settling payment by the payment method selection of which was received by the settlement-side selection means on the basis of the registration data transmitted by the transmission means. The registration device further includes registration-side selection means capable of receiving a selection of the payment method. When selection of the payment method is received by the registration-side selection means, the settlement means settles payment by the payment method the selection of which was received by the registration-side selection means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Currently, there exists a POS (Point Of Sales) system in which a registration device for registering products and a settlement device for settling the registered products are separated (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the POS system as described above, since it is also possible to operate the settlement device by the customer himself / herself, it is expected to reduce the workload of the store clerk. However, actually, there is a problem that the workload of the store clerk is not sufficiently reduced.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object thereof is to provide a technique for reducing the workload of store clerks.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, a POS system according to one aspect of the present invention is a POS system having a registration device for a store clerk to operate and register products to be purchased by a customer, and a plurality of payment devices for a customer to operate by himself / herself for payment. The registration device has an input means for inputting a ticket amount, and a transmission means for transmitting transaction information corresponding to the ticket amount input by the input means to the payment device so that it can be paid. The payment device has a reception means for receiving the transaction information transmitted from the registration device. Based on the transaction information received by the reception means, different controls are performed depending on whether the ticket amount input by the input means is larger than the transaction amount of the registered product, or the transaction amount of the registered product is larger than the ticket amount input by the input means.

Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, the work load of the store clerk is reduced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an embodiment of a POS system 1 according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the POS system 1 includes a store controller 10, a registration POS register 20 (registration device), three settlement POS registers 30 (settlement devices), and a settlement monitoring device 40. The store controller 10, the registration POS register 20, the three settlement POS registers 30, and the settlement monitoring device 40 are interconnected by a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) 11.

[0010] Note that the configuration of the POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is an example. For example, a plurality of registration POS registers 20 can be provided, the number of settlement POS registers 30 can be further increased, or the number of settlement POS registers 30 can be reduced to two. Further, the store controller 10, the registration POS register 20, the settlement POS register 30, and the settlement monitoring device 40 do not necessarily have to be connected by the LAN 11. In that case, data exchange can be performed using power line communication or the like that utilizes electrical wiring to achieve high-speed communication. It is also possible to omit the store controller 10 by configuring the registration POS register 20 to have the functions of the store controller 10.

[0011] The store controller 10 is a computer that controls the POS system 1 and manages various information such as the product master. The store controller 10 appropriately transmits the latest product master to the registration POS register 20 and each settlement POS register 30. Here, the product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information, product name, and selling price of each product, and is updated as appropriate.

[0012] The settlement monitoring device 40 is a device mainly for monitoring the settlement status in the settlement POS register 30. For example, in the settlement monitoring device 40, when there is an outstanding transaction where the settlement has not been completed even after a certain period of time has passed since the registration in the registration POS register 20 was completed, such a transaction is notified in a predetermined display mode. By viewing this display, the store clerk can grasp the settlement status of the entire transaction that has been completed in the store at present.

[0013] The registration POS register 20 performs a process of registering data of products that a customer intends to purchase. The registration of data is performed, for example, by reading the barcode attached to the product. Therefore, the registration POS register 20 is provided with a scanner that reads the barcode (product code) attached to the product purchased by the customer by the operation of the store clerk. In the present application, the data related to the product that is registered by the registration POS register 20 and used in the settlement process is referred to as transaction information. The transaction information includes the amount of all products that the customer intends to purchase, that is, the total amount, as well as information on the unit price and quantity of each product. In addition, the registration POS register 20 receives and manages status information from each settlement POS register 30.

[0014] Furthermore, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 that is the destination for sending transaction information according to the status information. At this time, based on the status information, the registration POS register 20 determines which settlement POS register 30 the customer currently engaged in the product registration operation should use for settlement in order to minimize the waiting time as much as possible. That is, the registration POS register 20 selects the optimal one from the multiple settlement POS registers 30. The registration POS register 20 selects, for example, an available settlement POS register 30. Alternatively, when all the settlement POS registers 30 are occupied by customers, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement device that is likely to become available the soonest. Then, the registration POS register 20 sends the transaction information to the selected settlement POS register 30. The customer who intends to purchase the product indicated by the transaction information can operate the settlement POS register 30 to which the transaction information was sent and perform the settlement process by themselves. The settlement process is a process of paying and settling the price of the product to be purchased by selectively using cash, electronic money, credit cards, etc.

[0015] The above status information is information representing the progress status of the settlement process in the settlement POS register 30. The progress status is classified into situations such as standby state, in settlement, in receipt issuance, available state, accounting hold, and trouble occurring. Based on this progress status, the registration POS register 20 performs a determination process on which settlement POS register 30 to select. For example, the registration POS register 20 preferentially selects an available settlement POS register 30. Also, if there is no available settlement POS register 30, it selects the one in receipt issuance. The above three progress statuses of standby state, in settlement, and in receipt issuance indicate the stages during the settlement process, and the progress status transitions from the standby state to in settlement and from in settlement to in receipt issuance. Therefore, the progress is further advanced in receipt issuance than in settlement. If there is no available one, by selecting the one in receipt issuance, it is possible to select the settlement POS register 30 that is likely to become available the soonest.

[0016] Also, when the registration POS register 20 transmits the transaction information currently in the process of product registration to the selected settlement POS register 30 as described above, the following display processing is performed. For example, the registration POS register 20 displays the status information received from each settlement POS register 30 on a display screen such as a touch panel that the registration POS register 20 has. This display may be updated constantly or at any time during the registration process or during idle time, not limited to when transmitting transaction information. Further, when the registration POS register 20 transmits the transaction information, it displays which settlement POS register 30 the transaction information has been transmitted to so that the store clerk or the customer can know. For example, when displayed to the store clerk, the store clerk can verbally convey it to the customer. The display method in this case is arbitrary. For example, on a touch panel or the like installed for the store clerk in the registration POS register 20, the status information of each settlement POS register 30 is displayed, and the status information corresponding to the transmitted settlement POS register 30 is highlighted. Also, a guide indicating the destination settlement POS register 30 may be displayed on the display unit facing the customer side that the registration POS register 20 has. Further, a receipt guiding the corresponding settlement POS register 30 (for example, a numbered ticket receipt with the number of the settlement POS register 30 printed) may be issued and handed to the customer.

[0017] Note that the selection of the settlement POS register 30 may be manually performed by the store clerk. For example, the store clerk may make a judgment by looking at the status information and select the settlement POS register 30 by pressing the button of the settlement POS register 30 selected on the touch panel. Also, in order to assist the store clerk's judgment, in the display of the status information, the available (or likely to be available) settlement POS register 30 may be highlighted and displayed.

[0018] In addition, the registration POS register 20 may print all the purchase details of the products purchased by the customer. In this case, before the customer operates the settlement POS register 30 to perform the settlement process, the customer can confirm the registration details using the registration POS register 20 by checking the print result.

[0019] In addition, the registration POS register 20 performs a return process on the products for which the customer has requested a return (hereinafter referred to as return products). For example, first, the registration POS register 20 inputs the transaction number printed on the receipt for the return product, and then reads the barcode attached to the return product. The transaction number is transaction identification information for identifying each transaction. Then, the registration POS register 20 reads the transaction information corresponding to the input transaction number to identify the return product, calculates the refund amount to be refunded to the customer, and generates refund information. The refund information is data for causing the settlement POS register 30 to dispense cash and includes the refund amount. Subsequently, the registration POS register 20 selects the settlement POS register 30 for refunding to the customer and transmits the generated refund information to the selected settlement POS register 30. In addition, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing at which the settlement POS register 30 makes a cash disbursement based on the refund information according to the operation of the store clerk, and transmits disbursement instruction data to the selected settlement POS register 30 so that the settlement POS register 30 makes a cash disbursement at the determined timing. The disbursement instruction data is data for instructing to disburse the amount based on the refund information.

[0020] Also, when a customer requests payment using a cash voucher such as a rice voucher or a merchandise voucher, the clerk receives the cash voucher from the customer at the registration POS register 20. The registration POS register 20 determines the amount to be paid at the payment POS register 30 according to the amount of the cash voucher received by the clerk from the customer. For example, when the total amount of the registered merchandise (hereinafter referred to as the transaction amount) is larger than the amount of the cash voucher (hereinafter referred to as the voucher amount), the registration POS register 20 sets the difference between the transaction amount and the voucher amount as the payment amount to be paid by the customer, adds the payment amount to the transaction information, and transmits it to the selected payment POS register 30. Also, when the transaction amount and the voucher amount are equal, the registration POS register 20 issues a receipt for the customer to take home. In this case, the customer does not need to go to the payment POS register 30 for payment. Further, when the voucher amount is larger than the transaction amount, the registration POS register 20 sets the difference between the voucher amount and the transaction amount as the refund amount to be refunded to the customer, and transmits refund information including the refund amount to the selected payment POS register 30. In this case, the registration POS register 20 determines the timing for the payment POS register 30 to make a cash disbursement based on the refund information according to the operation of the clerk, and transmits cash disbursement instruction data to the selected payment POS register 30 so that the payment POS register 30 makes a cash disbursement at the determined timing.

[0021] On the other hand, the payment POS register 30 is a device for the customer to operate on their own to perform a payment process, and is equipped with payment devices such as an automatic change dispenser, a card reader (for example, for a credit card or a point card), and an RF (Radio Frequency) reader (for example, for electronic money). Also, the payment POS register 30 transmits status information to the registration POS register 20 at any time.

[0022] In addition, when the settlement POS register 30 receives the above transaction information from the registration POS register 20, it notifies (i.e., guides the customer) so that the customer can come to the settlement POS register 30. As an example of the notification, for example, character information such as a predetermined number is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit of the settlement POS register 30. This character information such as the number is information that the registration POS register 20 (or the store clerk operating the registration POS register 20) has notified the customer separately. The customer only needs to go to the settlement POS register 30 where his or her known number is displayed. As another example of the notification, there is guiding the customer by lighting a predetermined lamp of the settlement POS register 30. For example, it lights up in a specific color, and the customer is made to go to the settlement POS register 30 of the designated color. Also, it may be a blinking light or the like. As another example of the notification, the member card No may be displayed on the screen of the settlement POS register 30. This member card No is read in the registration POS register 20, for example. The customer will go to the settlement POS register 30 that notifies his or her member card No.

[0023] In addition, the settlement POS register 30 goes into a standby state after the notification. That is, after the notification, the settlement POS register 30 goes into a standby state for an instruction to start the settlement process corresponding to the received transaction information. As an example of releasing the standby state, for example, when a customer touches the display screen of the settlement POS register 30 (or presses some button), the settlement process may be automatically started. Until the customer touches the screen, nothing is displayed on the screen, or, for example, only a number is displayed as in the above notification example. Alternatively, the settlement POS register 30 may start the settlement process by detecting whether or not a customer approaches using a human detection sensor. In this case, too, the screen may be blank or display a number until detection. The settlement POS register 30 starts the settlement process when the human detection sensor detects the approach of a person. Alternatively, a camera may be used instead of the human detection sensor. For example, a camera may be installed in the settlement POS register 30 and the registration POS register 20, and the settlement process may be started only when the same person approaches by face recognition.

[0024] The flow of the settlement process for the checkout POS register 30 in standby mode can be, for example, as follows. (1) First, the settlement method is selected. Either cash, credit card, electronic money, or a combination of these is selected in response to a customer's operation. (2) Next, the settlement is executed. The settlement is executed by inserting cash into the bill and coin insertion / removal slot of the checkout POS register 30, paying the change, or reading the card with a card reader. (3) Next, a receipt is issued using a printing unit of the checkout POS register 30. For example, a list of purchased items, the total purchase amount, the received amount, the change, etc. are printed on the receipt. (4) Then, the checkout POS register 30 finishes the settlement process and enters an idle state.

[0025] The payment method at the settlement POS register 30 may be declared at the registration POS register 20. In this case, the registration POS register 20 sends the payment method information to the settlement POS register 30, and the settlement POS register 30 starts the process from the operation (2) above.

[0026] In addition, when the POS register 30 for settlement receives the above refund information based on a refund or settlement using a gift certificate, it notifies (i.e., guides the customer) so that the customer can come to the location of the POS register 30 for settlement. Further, after the notification, the POS register 30 for settlement enters a standby state. Then, when the standby state is released and the above withdrawal instruction data is received, the POS register 30 for settlement pays out cash (banknotes and coins) corresponding to the refund amount based on the refund information from the change dispenser.

[0027] Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4, a configuration example of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30 in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the registration POS register 20. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the settlement POS register 30. And FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the registration POS register 20 and the settlement POS register 30.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the registration POS register 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, a scanner unit 204, a display unit (for store clerks) 205, a display unit (for customers) 205a, an operation unit 206, a communication unit 207, a buzzer 208, and a printing unit 209. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0029] The ROM 202 is a read-only memory and stores programs in advance. The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the registration POS register 20 by reading and executing the programs stored in the ROM 202. For example, the CPU 201 (refund information generation means) generates refund information to be refunded to the customer in a predetermined process. The predetermined process includes a return process related to the return of goods purchased by the customer, a process of settling the registered goods with cash vouchers, etc. Also, the CPU 201 (selection means) selects the settlement POS register 30 for which a refund based on the refund information should be made. Further, the CPU 201 (withdrawal instruction means) determines the timing of withdrawal based on the refund information. Also, the CPU 201 (refund information transmission means) transmits the refund information via the communication unit 207 so that a refund can be made at the selected settlement POS register 30.

[0030] The scanner unit 204 optically reads the barcode (product code) attached to the product. The RAM 203 is a random access memory that stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores product information based on the barcode read by the scanner unit 204, status information received from the settlement POS register 30, etc. Also, for example, the RAM 203 may store the history of operation button operations.

[0031] The display unit (for store clerks) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a display various information. For example, the display unit (for store clerks) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a display information (e.g., product name, price, etc.) obtained from the product master. Also, the display unit (for store clerks) 205 is a touch panel (e.g., a liquid crystal touch panel) that displays various information for store clerks. Further, the display unit (for store clerks) 205 accepts operation inputs for the product information (product code, etc.) preset and registered when the operation button (preset button) displayed in the area within the screen is operated.

[0032] The operation unit 206 is provided with various operation buttons (subtotal key, current total key, setting key, correction key, ticket key, preset key, etc.) for operating the registration POS register 20. For example, when the operation button (preset key) of the operation unit 206 is operated, it accepts an operation input for the product information (product code, etc.) preset and registered in the preset key.

[0033] The communication unit 207 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11. The buzzer 208 generates a buzzer sound when it is necessary for the store clerk to confirm an operation.

[0034] The printing unit 209 prints information indicating transaction information, etc. as necessary. However, in this embodiment, the printing of transaction information can be omitted. Note that, as described above, the printing unit 209 may print information for guiding the settlement POS register 30, which is the transmission destination of the selected transaction information (accounting data) according to the status information, on a receipt (printing medium).

[0035] The external configurations of the scanner unit 204, the display unit (for store clerks) 205, the operation unit 206, the printing unit 209, etc. are shown in FIG. 4.

[0036] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3, the settlement POS register 30 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a scanner unit 304, a display unit 305, an operation unit 306, a communication unit 307, a buzzer 308, a printing unit 309, a settlement unit 310, a signature pole 311, and a human sensor 312. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0037] The ROM 302 is a read-only memory that stores programs. The CPU 301 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the settlement POS register 30 by reading and executing the programs stored in the ROM 302. For example, the CPU 301 (receiving means) receives refund information via the communication unit 307. Also, the CPU 301 (payout means) causes the change dispenser provided in the settlement unit 310 to pay out cash (banknotes or coins) corresponding to the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the received refund information at the timing determined by the registration POS register 20.

[0038] The RAM 303 is a random access memory that stores various information. For example, the RAM 303 stores the product master acquired from the store controller 10 and the purchase details of the product indicated by the two-dimensional code or barcode read by the scanner unit 304. As an example of the case where the two-dimensional code or barcode is read by the scanner unit 304, for example, in the registration POS register 20, the two-dimensional code or barcode used for accounting by the registration POS register 20 is printed on the accounting voucher because the status information of the settlement POS register 30 cannot be acquired for some reason (for example, in a situation where a trouble has occurred).

[0039] The scanner unit 304 optically reads, for example, the barcode (member code) attached to a membership card or the like. The display unit 305 displays various information on the screen according to the control from the CPU 301. Also, the display unit 305 stores in the RAM 303 for each operation button the history (for example, the number of operations, the operation order, etc.) of the operation buttons displayed on the screen when they are operated.

[0040] The operation unit 306 includes various operation buttons (such as a correction key and a preset key) for operating the settlement POS register 30. For example, the operation unit 306 accepts correction of the operation input when the operation button (correction key) is operated.

[0041] The communication unit 307 communicates with other devices via the LAN 11. For example, it connects to the store controller 10 to obtain the latest product master from the store controller 10.

[0042] When an error or the like occurs, the buzzer 308 generates a buzzer sound to notify the error. When the settlement process (i.e., the settlement of the purchase amount of the product) is completed, the printing unit 309 prints and issues the settled receipt that the customer takes home.

[0043] The settlement unit 310 includes a change dispenser, a credit card reader, an electronic money reader, etc., and their control units. Using the settlement unit 310, settlement processing is performed in cash, credit, or electronic money. The settlement unit 310 executes settlement in cash by the change dispenser and outputs the result of the executed settlement (for example, information indicating whether the settlement was successful) to the CPU 301 via the bus. The change dispenser is provided with a banknote insertion and ejection slot for inserting and ejecting banknotes, a coin insertion slot for inserting coins, and a change ejection slot for ejecting change. Also, the settlement unit 310 executes settlement by credit and outputs the result of the executed settlement to the CPU 301 via the port and the bus. Also, the settlement unit 310 executes settlement by electronic money and outputs the result of the executed settlement to the CPU 301 via the bus.

[0044] The sign pole 311 has a plurality of color display lights, and by lighting or flashing these display lights, it notifies information indicating that the POS register 30 for settlement is the selected device, or notifies that it is operable. The human presence sensor 312 (human presence sensor) is a sensor that detects the presence of a person (customer) within a predetermined range in front of the POS register 30 for settlement.

[0045] The external appearance configurations such as the scanner unit 304, the display unit 305, the operation unit 306, the printing unit 309, the settlement unit 310, and the sign pole 311 are shown in FIG. 4.

[0046] Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 of the POS system 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. First, the customer takes the merchandise to be purchased to the registration POS register 20 operated by the store clerk. The CPU 201 determines whether it is a registration process for registering the merchandise to be purchased by the customer (step S1). The store clerk selects and operates either the registration process or the return process using the operation unit 206. When it is a registration process for registering the merchandise to be purchased (YES in step S1), the CPU 201 executes merchandise registration by inputting the merchandise code (step S2). That is, the CPU 201 writes the content to the item of transaction information stored in the processing area of the RAM 203.

[0047] The CPU 201 determines whether merchandise registration has been completed for all the merchandise to be purchased by the customer (step S3). For example, when the cash register key is pressed, the CPU 201 determines that merchandise registration has been completed for all the merchandise to be purchased by the customer. If merchandise registration has not been completed (NO in step S3), the CPU 201 returns the process to step S2.

[0048] On the other hand, when merchandise registration has been completed for all the merchandise (YES in step S3), the CPU 201 determines whether to use a monetary voucher such as a merchandise voucher or a rice voucher for settlement of the registered transaction (step S4). When the store clerk receives a request for settlement using a monetary voucher from the customer, the clerk presses the "voucher key". When the "voucher key" is pressed, the CPU 201 determines that a monetary voucher is to be used for settlement. When a monetary voucher is used for settlement (YES in step S4), a monetary voucher settlement process is executed (step S5), and then the process ends. Details of the monetary voucher settlement process will be described later.

[0049] On the other hand, when not using vouchers for settlement (NO in step S4), the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 that is the transmission destination of the transaction information (step S6). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 203, and based on each status information, selects the settlement POS register 30 in which the progress of the settlement process has advanced the most (that is, is in a free state or is most likely to become free soon).

[0050] Next, the CPU 201 additionally stores the confirmed transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the confirmed transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it to the settlement POS register 30 and the store controller 10 selected in step S6 via the communication unit 207 (step S7). In the store controller 10, the transaction information is written and stored in the log file.

[0051] Next, the CPU 201 issues a settlement slip (a numbered ticket receipt, an account voucher, or a POS register guidance receipt with the number of the settlement POS register 30 printed thereon) on which a guidance indicating the settlement POS register 30 of the transmission destination is printed (step S8). More specifically, the CPU 201 causes the printing unit 209 to print a receipt on which the number of the selected settlement POS register 30 and the transaction number are printed as shown in FIG. 6. Then, the CPU 201 ends the process (or may return to step S1).

[0052] FIG. 6 is an image diagram showing an example of a settlement slip issued by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. In this FIG. 6, as a guidance indicating the settlement POS register 30 of the transmission destination, the characters "Please settle at register No. 1" (see reference numeral 3051) are printed on the receipt. Also, as the transaction number, "1234567" (see reference numeral 3052) is printed on the receipt.

[0053] On the one hand, when a customer returns a product, the customer takes the product to be returned to the registration POS register 20 operated by the store clerk. The store clerk checks the product for which the customer has requested a return and switches the registration POS register 20 to the return processing mode (for example, selects return processing from the menu screen). And when it is not in the registration process, that is, when it is in the return processing mode (NO in step S1), the CPU 201 inputs the transaction number described on the receipt (step S11). For example, the store clerk collects the receipt brought by the customer and inputs the transaction number described on the receipt.

[0054] The CPU 201 displays the same information as the transaction information corresponding to the receipt on the display unit (for store clerks) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a (step S12). Specifically, the CPU 201 transmits the transaction number to the store controller 10 through the communication unit 207, receives the transaction information corresponding to the transaction number transmitted from the store controller 10, and displays it on the display unit (for store clerks) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a.

[0055] Next, the CPU 201 inputs the code information attached to the returned product (step S13). For example, the store clerk allows the scanner unit 204 to read the code information attached to the returned product in the state of the screen where the transaction information is displayed.

[0056] The CPU 201 collates the code information attached to the returned product with the transaction information on the receipt (step S14), and checks whether the same code information (for example, JAN code) exists in the transaction information on the receipt, that is, whether the same product exists on the receipt (step S15). That is, it is checked whether the returned product is indeed the product described on the receipt.

[0057] If there is no identical code information (NO in step S15), the CPU 201 notifies an error by, for example, displaying a warning on the display unit (for store clerks) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a, or sounding the buzzer 208 (step 16). The CPU 201 displays a prompt on the display unit (for store clerks) 205 and the display unit (for customers) 205a to re-enter the information, and determines whether a re-entry operation has been instructed (step S17). If a re-entry operation has been instructed by the store clerk (YES in step S17), the CPU 201 returns to step S11 and proceeds with the process from the input of the transaction number described on the receipt again. On the other hand, if a re-entry operation has not been instructed by the store clerk (NO in step S17), the CPU 201 ends the process (or may return to step S1).

[0058] On the other hand, if there is identical code information in the transaction information on the receipt (YES in step S15), the item is treated as a returned item, and the refund amount is calculated from the price and quantity of the returned item (step S18). Next, it is determined whether the "Deposit / Cashier Key" has been pressed (step S19). When the "Deposit / Cashier Key" is pressed (YES in step S19), the CPU 201 selects a POS register 30 for settlement for the refund (step S20). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each POS register 30 for settlement stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 203, and displays a selection screen for the POS register 30 for settlement, as shown in FIG. 7, on the display unit (for store clerks) 205. The store clerk selects the POS register 30 for settlement for the refund while referring to the status information of each POS register 30 for settlement displayed on the selection screen.

[0059] FIG. 7 is an image diagram showing an example of a selection screen displayed by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. In the display example of FIG. 7, “selection keys” 7001 to 7003 for selecting the settlement POS register 30 for refund are displayed. The number and status information of the corresponding settlement POS register 30 are displayed on each of the “selection keys” 7001 to 7003. The store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 for refund by pressing any one of the “selection keys” 7001 to 7003 displayed on the selection screen.

[0060] Next, the CPU 201 issues a return slip on which the number of the selected settlement POS register 30 and the transaction number are printed (step S21). The store clerk hands the issued return slip to the customer and instructs the customer to go to the selected settlement POS register 30. The customer goes to the instructed settlement POS register 30 with the return slip.

[0061] Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen as shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit (for store clerks) 205, and determines whether or not the “confirmation key” displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed (step S22). When the store clerk confirms that the customer has reached in front of the settlement POS register 30, the store clerk presses the “confirmation key” displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. When the “confirmation key” is pressed (YES in step S22), the CPU 201 additionally stores the refund information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the refund information with the transaction number, and transmits them to the store controller 10 and the selected settlement POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S23). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S18. At this time, the CPU 201 transmits the withdrawal instruction data to the settlement POS register 30 together with the refund information. The store controller 10 writes the refund information in the log file and stores it. Then, the CPU 201 ends the process (or may return to step S1).

[0062] FIG. 8 is an image diagram showing an example of a withdrawal instruction screen displayed by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. In the display example of FIG. 8, a "confirmation key" 8001 for instructing the timing of withdrawal to the settlement POS register 30 and a transaction number "2631" 8002 of the transaction are displayed.

[0063] Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the ticket settlement process in step S5 of FIG. 5 described above will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the ticket settlement process executed by the registration POS register 20 in the present embodiment. First, the CPU 201 inputs the ticket amount, which is the amount of the ticket passed by the customer to the store clerk (step S101). For example, the store clerk inputs the ticket amount by pressing the number of sheets + the "ticket key". Next, the CPU 201 compares the input ticket amount with the transaction amount, which is the total amount of the goods registered in the transaction (step S102).

[0064] When the transaction amount is greater than the ticket amount, the CPU 201 sets the difference obtained by subtracting the ticket amount from the transaction amount as the payment amount to be paid by the customer at the settlement POS register 30 (step S103), and writes the payment amount into the transaction information. Next, the CPU 201 selects the settlement POS register 30 that is the transmission destination of the transaction information (step S104).

[0065] Next, the CPU 201 additionally stores the determined transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the determined transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it to the settlement POS register 30 and the store controller 10 selected in step S104 via the communication unit 207 (step S105). The store controller 10 writes the transaction information into the log file and stores it. Next, the CPU 201 issues a settlement slip (step S106). Then, the CPU 201 ends the process.

[0066] On the one hand, when the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, the CPU 201 adds and stores the determined transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the determined transaction information with the transaction number, and transmits it to the store controller 10 via the communication unit 207 (step S107). Next, the CPU 201 issues a receipt by discharging a paper medium on which the date and time, transaction number, purchased items, quantity, unit price, total amount, deposit amount, etc. are printed from the printing unit 209 (step S108). The store clerk hands the issued receipt to the customer to inform the customer that the settlement is completed. That is, when the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, the customer can complete the settlement without going to the settlement POS register 30. Note that not only when the transaction amount is equal to the voucher amount, but also in stores that operate such that no change is paid when the voucher amount is greater than the transaction amount, the processes up to steps S107 to S108 are the same.

[0067] On the other hand, when the voucher amount is greater than the transaction amount, the CPU 201 sets the difference obtained by subtracting the transaction amount from the voucher amount as the refund amount to be refunded to the customer at the settlement POS register 30 (step S109). The CPU 201 writes the determined refund amount into the transaction information.

[0068] Next, the CPU 201 selects a settlement POS register 30 for refund (step S110). Specifically, the CPU 201 refers to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 203, and displays a selection screen for the settlement POS register 30 as shown in FIG. 7 on the display unit (for store clerks) 205. The store clerk selects a settlement POS register 30 for refund while referring to the status information of each settlement POS register 30 displayed on the selection screen.

[0069] Next, the CPU 201 issues a return slip on which the number of the selected settlement POS register 30 and the transaction number are printed (step S111). The store clerk hands the issued return slip to the customer and instructs the customer to go to the selected settlement POS register 30. The customer goes to the instructed settlement POS register 30 with the return slip.

[0070] Next, the CPU 201 displays a withdrawal instruction screen as shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit (for store clerks) 205, and determines whether or not the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen has been pressed (step 112). When the store clerk confirms that the customer has reached in front of the settlement POS register 30, the store clerk performs a pressing operation on the "confirmation key" displayed on the withdrawal instruction screen. When the "confirmation key" is pressed (YES in step S112), the CPU 201 additionally stores the finalized transaction information in the log file of the RAM 203, associates the transaction information with the refund information added and the transaction number, and transmits them to the store controller 10 and the selected settlement POS register 30 via the communication unit 207 (step S113). The refund information includes the refund amount calculated in step S109. At this time, the CPU 201 transmits the withdrawal instruction data to the settlement POS register 30 together with the refund information. The store controller 10 writes the transaction information to the log file and stores it. Then, the CPU 201 ends the process.

[0071] When the customer has the registration process for the purchased goods performed by the registration POS register 20, the customer receives a settlement slip and goes to the settlement POS register 30 with the number printed on the settlement slip. Also, when the customer has the return process for the goods performed by the registration POS register 20, the customer receives a return slip and goes to the settlement POS register 30 with the number printed on the return slip. Note that when a return slip is not issued, the settlement POS register 30 may call the customer. When the customer is called, the customer goes to the called settlement POS register 30. Alternatively, identification information such as a number for guiding the customer may be displayed on the screen of the settlement POS register 30, and the store clerk may guide the settlement POS register 30.

[0072] Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the operation procedure of the settlement POS register 30 of the POS system 1 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the settlement POS register 30 according to the present embodiment. First, the CPU 301 determines whether transaction information has been received (step S201). If transaction information has been received (YES in step S201), the CPU 301 notifies that the transaction information has been received and shifts to the standby state for settlement processing (step S202).

[0073] Here, when a customer arrives at the settlement POS register 30 and a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 306 or the like, or when the approach of a person is detected by the human sensor 312, the CPU 301 starts the settlement processing (step S203). In the settlement processing, the operation method and the like are shown on the display unit 305, and according to the customer's operation, the selection of the settlement method and the settlement by the selected settlement method are performed. When the settlement processing by a predetermined settlement method is completed in the settlement POS register 30, the CPU 301 issues a receipt by discharging a paper medium on which the date and time, transaction number, purchased goods, quantity, unit price, total amount, deposit amount, etc. are printed from the printing unit 309 (step S204). Then, the CPU 301 ends the processing (or may return to step S201).

[0074] On the other hand, if transaction information has not been received (No in step S201), the CPU 301 determines whether refund information has been received (step S211). If refund information has not been received (No in step S211), the CPU 301 returns to the processing of step S201. On the other hand, if refund information has been received (Yes in step S211), the CPU 301 notifies that the transaction information has been received and shifts to the standby state for settlement processing (step S212).

[0075] Here, when a customer arrives at the settlement POS register 30 and a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 306 or the like, or when the approach of a person is detected by the human sensor 312, the CPU 301 releases the standby state and determines whether or not it has received withdrawal instruction data (step S213). When the CPU 301 has received the withdrawal instruction data (Yes in step S213), it performs a refund process (calculation of the currency type according to the refund amount, etc.) based on the received refund information and displays the refund amount on the display unit 305 (step S214). Then, the CPU 301 pays out banknotes or coins corresponding to the refund amount from the change dispenser provided in the settlement unit 310 (step S215). Next, the CPU 301 adds information indicating the completion of the return process to the return information, stores it as return process completion information, and transmits it to the store controller 10 (step S216). The store controller 10 writes the return process completion information to a log file and stores it. Then, the CPU 201 issues a receipt by discharging a paper medium on which the date and time, transaction number, purchased items, quantity, unit price, total amount, deposited amount, etc. are printed from the printing unit 309 (step S217). Then, the CPU 301 ends the process (or may return to step S201).

[0076] As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a return or a "transaction with change" occurs, the store clerk designates the settlement POS register 30 for refund at the registration POS register 20, and the designated settlement POS register 30 makes a withdrawal. Thereby, the store clerk can pay out the change without going to the position of the settlement POS register 30 and operating it.

[0077] In addition, if the change-dispensing POS register 30 dispenses change immediately after the registration POS register 20 designates the change-dispensing POS register 30, there is a security problem in that a third party could take the dispensed change before the customer moves from the registration POS register 20 to the change-dispensing POS register 30. In contrast, according to the present embodiment, the registration POS register 20 displays a confirmation screen when transmitting the withdrawal information in the transaction for which withdrawal is to be made, and prompts the customer to wait until moving. Then, when the store clerk confirms that the customer has moved to the change-dispensing POS register 30 and stands in front of the change-dispensing POS register 30 and presses the "confirmation key", the registration POS register 20 gives a withdrawal instruction. The change-dispensing POS register 30 makes a withdrawal based on the withdrawal information when the withdrawal instruction is given. As a result, since the store clerk can visually confirm that the customer has reached the change-dispensing POS register 30 and then make a withdrawal, the security is improved.

[0078] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and designs and the like within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included.

[0079] For example, in the above-described embodiment, when the "confirmation key" is pressed, the registration POS register 20 transmits the withdrawal instruction data simultaneously with the refund information such as the transaction number and the refund amount. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the change-dispensing POS register 30 is selected and designated, the refund information may be transmitted, and then, by pressing the confirmation key, the withdrawal instruction data may be transmitted separately.

[0080] Also, in this case, when the human sensor 312 provided in the settlement POS register 30 reacts, the confirmation key may be set in a mode different from normal (flashing, changing color), may be notified by sound from the vicinity of the registration POS register 20, or may be notified by a vibrator or the like. Specifically, after receiving the refund information, when the settlement POS register 30 detects a person with the human sensor 312, it transmits the detection information to the registration POS register 20 that is the transmission source of the withdrawal information. When receiving the detection information, the registration POS register 20 notifies in any of the above methods (setting the confirmation key in a mode different from normal (flashing, changing color), outputting sound from the vicinity of the registration POS register 20, or vibrating a vibrator, etc.). In this case, even when the store clerk is dealing with the next customer, since the store clerk is notified in a conspicuous display screen, sound, vibrator, etc., the store clerk can know that a customer who needs change stands in front of the settlement POS register 30. Therefore, the efficiency of registration and settlement can be improved.

[0081] Also, in the above-described embodiment, the confirmation key (withdrawal instruction key) is displayed on the screen, but it is not limited to this, and a withdrawal instruction key may be assigned to one of the keyboards (mechanical keys) provided in the operation unit 206.

[0082] Also, in the above-described embodiment, the store clerk selects the settlement POS register 30 for withdrawal on the selection screen, but the registration POS register 20 may automatically select the settlement POS register 30 based on the status information of each settlement POS register 30.

[0083] In the above-described embodiment, the registration POS register 20 designates the settlement POS register 30. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be designated by a register at a service counter, a settlement monitoring device 40 that monitors the settlement status of a settlement device, or a store controller 10. That is, the "refund information generation means", "selection means", "withdrawal instruction means", and "refund information transmission means" may be provided in a device other than the registration POS register 20 (a register at a service counter, the settlement monitoring device 40, or the store controller 10). As a result, not only the store clerk in charge of the registration POS register 20 but also the store clerk in charge of the settlement monitoring device 40 or the store controller 10 can handle return processing and the like.

[0084] Note that a program for realizing the above-described POS register (registration POS register or settlement POS register) and POS system may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on this recording medium may be read into a computer system and executed to perform execution processing. Here, the "computer system" may include hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices.

[0085] Also, the "computer system" shall include a homepage providing environment (or display environment) if it uses a WWW system. The "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a writable non-volatile memory such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a flash memory, a portable medium such as a CD-ROM, or a storage device such as a hard disk built into a computer system.

[0086] Furthermore, the "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a volatile memory (for example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)) inside a computer system that becomes a server or a client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, and that holds the program for a certain period of time. Also, the above program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) like the Internet or a communication line (communication wire) like a telephone line. Also, the above program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Further, it may be a so-called difference file (difference program) that can realize the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0087] (Appendix 1) A POS system having a registration device for registering products to be purchased by customers and a plurality of settlement devices for performing settlement based on the transaction information of the products registered by the registration device, comprising refund information generation means for generating refund information to be refunded to customers in a predetermined process, selection means for selecting a settlement device to perform a refund based on the refund information, and refund information transmission means for transmitting the refund information so that the selected settlement device can perform the refund, wherein the settlement device comprises receiving means for receiving the refund information and withdrawal means for making a withdrawal according to the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the refund information received by the receiving means.

[0088] (Appendix 2) The POS system according to Appendix 1, further comprising withdrawal instruction means for determining the timing of withdrawal based on the refund information, wherein the withdrawal means makes a withdrawal according to the amount to be refunded to the customer based on the refund information received by the receiving means at the timing determined by the withdrawal instruction means.

[0089] (Appendix 3) The settlement device includes a human sensor that detects a person, and detection information transmission means that transmits detection information to the registration device when the human sensor detects a person after receiving the refund information. The registration device includes notification means for notifying when receiving the detection information from the settlement device. The POS system according to supplementary note 2 is characterized in that.

[0090] (Supplementary note 4) The registration device includes acquisition means for acquiring status information regarding settlement processing from each of the settlement devices, and display means for displaying the status information when selected by the selection means. The POS system according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 3 is characterized in that.

[0091] (Supplementary note 5) The predetermined process is a process related to the return of the goods purchased by the customer. The POS system according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 4 is characterized in that.

[0092] (Supplementary note 6) The predetermined process is a process of settling the goods registered in the registration device using gift certificates. The POS system according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 4 is characterized in that.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0093] 10… Store controller, 11… LAN, 20… Registration POS register, 30… Settlement POS register, 201… CPU, 202… ROM, 203… RAM, 204… Scanner unit, 205… Display unit (for store clerks), 205a… Display unit (for customers), 206… Operation unit, 207… Communication unit, 208… Buzzer, 209… Printing unit, 301… CPU, 302… ROM, 303… RAM, 304… Scanner unit, 305… Display unit, 306… Operation unit, 307… Communication unit, 308… Buzzer, 309… Printing unit, 310… Settlement unit, 311… Signature pole, 312… Human sensor

Claims

1. A system having a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products and a payment device operated by a customer to pay, The registration device a voucher receiving means for receiving an input of the voucher amount; an information generating means for generating refund information indicating the difference as a refund amount when the coupon amount received by the coupon receiving means is greater than the total amount of the registered merchandise, and for generating additional payment information indicating the difference as an additional payment amount when the coupon amount received by the coupon receiving means is less than the total amount of the registered merchandise; a transmitting means for transmitting the information generated by the information generating means so that the information can be processed by the settlement device; Equipped with The settlement device When the refund information is received, the currency corresponding to the refund amount indicated by the refund information is paid out, and when the additional payment information is received, a screen is displayed that allows the customer to select a payment method for the additional payment amount indicated by the additional payment information. A system characterized by:

2. A program for causing a first computer to function as a registration device and a second computer to function as a payment device in a system having a registration device operated by a store clerk to register products and a payment device operated by a customer to pay, the program comprising: The first computer a voucher receiving means for receiving an input of the voucher amount; an information generating means for generating refund information indicating the difference as a refund amount when the coupon amount received by the coupon receiving means is greater than the total amount of the registered merchandise, and for generating additional payment information indicating the difference as an additional payment amount when the coupon amount received by the coupon receiving means is less than the total amount of the registered merchandise; a transmitting means for transmitting the information generated by the information generating means so that the information can be processed by the settlement device; It functions as The second computer a control means for dispensing money according to the refund amount indicated by the refund information when the refund information is received, and displaying a screen for allowing a customer to select a payment method for the additional payment amount indicated by the additional payment information when the additional payment information is received; A program that functions as a

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