Transaction processing system and accounting machine

Abstract

To easily deal with incomplete electronic payment in response to an operation on a mobile terminal.SOLUTION: A transaction processing system according to an embodiment comprising a mobile terminal equipped with acquisition means for acquiring a product code that identifies a product subject to a transaction, comprises requesting means, output means, detection means, and instruction means. The requesting means requests electronic payment for the transaction from a payment apparatus. The output means outputs transaction data relating to the transaction and including at least first identification data for identifying an electronic payment matter requested by the requesting means from other electronic payment matters, for storage in a storage apparatus. The detection means detects that it has become unclear whether the requested electronic payment has been completed. The instruction means instructs the mobile terminal to output second identification data for identifying the transaction data stored in the storage apparatus for the transaction that is the subject of the electronic payment that has been detected to be unclear.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a transaction processing system, a transaction processing apparatus, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] A transaction processing system that registers transaction details according to an operation of a mobile terminal by a customer is known, for example, as a cart POS system. In such a system, if electronic payment such as credit card payment or barcode payment is used, the payment process itself can be completed according to the operation of the customer on the mobile terminal. And if the payment can be completed in this way, the customer can easily complete the transaction without operating another device such as a cashier device.

[0003] However, in electronic payment, on the side that requested the payment, there may be a so-called outstanding state where it is unclear whether the payment has been completed. And when it becomes outstanding, the processing on the mobile terminal for the transaction cannot be terminated. Due to such circumstances, a countermeasure for the outstanding case has been demanded.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a transaction processing system, a transaction processing apparatus, and an information processing program that can easily handle the case where electronic payment according to an operation on a mobile terminal becomes outstanding.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The transaction processing system according to the embodiment is a transaction processing system including a mobile terminal having an acquisition unit that acquires a product code for identifying a product to be traded, and includes a request unit, an output unit, a detection unit, and an instruction unit. The request unit requests the settlement device for electronic settlement related to the transaction. The output unit outputs at least first identification data for identifying the electronic settlement item requested for the transaction by the request unit from another electronic settlement item requested for the settlement device, and outputs transaction data related to the transaction so as to be stored in the storage device. The detection unit detects that it has become unclear whether or not the electronic settlement requested by the request unit has been completed. The instruction unit, in response to the detection by the detection unit that it has become unclear, instructs the mobile terminal to output second identification data for identifying the transaction data stored in the storage device regarding the transaction that is the subject of the unclear electronic settlement.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the transaction processing system of this embodiment targets transactions of buying and selling goods through display sales in a store.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a store system 1 according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the layout of a store introducing the store system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the store system 1 includes a cart terminal 10, a store server 20, a virtual POS server 30, a manned cash register 40, a self-service cash register 50, a beacon transmitter 60, and a store clerk terminal 70. The cart terminal 10, the store server 20, the virtual POS server 30, the manned cash register 40, the self-service cash register 50, and the store clerk terminal 70 are capable of communicating with each other via a communication network 2. However, the cart terminal 10 is connected to the communication network 2 via an access point 2a by wireless communication with the access point 2a. It is desirable that the access point 2a be arranged so as to be able to communicate with any of the access points 2a from the cart terminal 10 located anywhere in the area where customers are allowed to enter the store. The virtual POS server 30 can use the payment service and the electronic receipt service provided by the payment server 3 and the electronic receipt server 4 directly via the communication network 2 or via the store server 20. Also, the virtual POS server 30 can refer to the member database managed by the member server 5 via the communication network 2. The payment server 3 performs information processing for electronic payment in response to a payment request via the communication network 2. That is, the payment server 3 is an example of a payment device.

[0010] Note that the store server 20, the virtual POS server 30, the manned cash register 40, or the self-service cash register 50 may be connected to the communication network 2 via the access point 2a by wireless communication with the access point 2a. The communication network 2 transmits various data exchanged between the connected devices. As the communication network 2, the Internet, a VPN (virtual private network), a LAN (local area network), a public communication network, a mobile communication network, etc. can be used alone or in appropriate combination.

[0011] The electronic receipt server 4 includes a storage device 4a. The storage device 4a stores a contact database for providing the electronic receipt service. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the data record DR1 included in the contact database. The contact database is a set of data records DR1 associated with each user of the electronic receipt service. And the data record DR1 includes fields F11, F12. In the field F11, an electronic receipt ID (identifier) as an identifier for identifying the associated user from other users is set. In the field F12, a contact address for various contacts regarding the electronic receipt service for the associated user is set. The contact address is, for example, an email address.

[0012] The membership server 5 includes a storage device 5a. The storage device 5a stores a membership database for managing members of the services provided by the store system 1. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the data record DR2 included in the membership database managed by the membership server 5. The membership database is a set of data records DR2 associated with each member. And the data record DR2 includes fields F21, F22, F23. In field F21, a member code is set as an identifier for identifying an associated member from other members. In field F22, when the associated member is also a user of the electronic receipt service, the electronic receipt ID of the member is set. Note that when the associated member is not a user of the electronic receipt service, field F22 is left blank or predetermined invalid data is set. In field F23, the number of points held by the associated member regarding the point reduction service is set.

[0013] The cart terminal 10 is an information processing terminal that functions as a user interface for operations related to registering purchased goods. The cart terminal 10 is attached to a shopping cart (hereinafter referred to as a cart) C as shown in FIG. 2, for example. And the cart terminal 10 is operated by a customer M1 who uses the cart C. However, the cart terminal 10 may be carried by the customer. The store system 1 typically includes a number of cart terminals 10. The customer uses one cart terminal 10 exclusively while shopping. The cart terminal 10 may be fixed to the cart C or may be detachable from the cart C. The cart terminal 10 is moved by the customer M1 when used by the customer M1. That is, the cart terminal 10 is an example of a mobile terminal that can be moved by the customer.

[0014] The store server 20 executes information processing to support overall store operations. The store server 20 includes a storage device 20a. The storage device 20a stores various databases including a product master database. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the data record DR3 included in the product master database. The product master database is a set of data records DR3 associated with individual products that can be sold in the store. And the data record DR3 includes fields F31, F32, F33, F34. In field F31, a product code is set as an identifier for identifying an associated product from other products. In field F32, a product name, which is a name defined to make it easy for humans to identify the associated product, is set. In field F33, a price to be applied when selling the associated product to customers is set. In field F34, issue confirmation information is set. The issue confirmation information may include flag information indicating whether it is necessary to issue a ticket such as a discount coupon or a certificate when selling the product. Also, the issue confirmation information may include flag information indicating whether special handling by a store clerk is required when selling products such as alcohol, tobacco, and certain pharmaceuticals. These flag information are set to "0" if not necessary and "1" if necessary, for example. The issue confirmation information may include type information of tickets that need to be issued. The issue confirmation information may include identification information for identifying confirmation items by a store clerk. Thus, the flag information indicating whether it is necessary to issue a ticket represents that there is no need to print on a medium when it is "0". Therefore, the said flag information corresponds to the information indicating that there is no need to print on a medium. Also, alcohol or tobacco is a product with an age restriction, and the handling by a store clerk during sales is the confirmation of the purchaser's age. Thus, the flag information indicating whether special handling by a store clerk is required when selling such products with an age restriction represents that there is no age restriction for the purchaser when it is "0".

[0015] The virtual POS server 30 executes information processing for achieving various functions as a POS terminal by collaborating with the cart terminal 10. In the present embodiment, the cart terminal 10 often functions as a user interface device. More specifically, the cart terminal 10 functions as a user interface in the virtual POS server 30. Then, while the virtual POS server 30 and the cart terminal 10 cooperate with each other, by executing information processing for realizing various functions as a POS terminal, the cart terminal 10 is made to appear as a POS terminal to the customer. Note that some of the various functions as a POS terminal are processing related to transactions. Thus, the functions as a transaction processing system are realized by the cart terminal 10 and the virtual POS server 30.

[0016] The manned cash register 40 is a settlement terminal that enables a store clerk to perform operations related to the settlement of purchased goods registered by the virtual POS server 30. The manned cash register 40 executes accounting processing for determining the price of the purchased goods. Further, the manned cash register 40 executes settlement processing for settling the price determined by the above accounting processing under the operation of the store clerk. The manned cash register 40 may be provided with a function of registering purchased goods according to the operation of the store clerk and further performing processing for settling the purchased goods according to the operation of the store clerk. That is, the manned cash register 40 may be provided with functions as a well-known POS terminal called a face-to-face type.

[0017] For this reason, as shown in FIG. 2, the manned cash register 40 is installed in the face-to-face zone ZO11 within the accounting zone ZO1. For the operating manned cash register 40, a store clerk M2 who exclusively operates the manned cash register 40 while facing the customer M1 is arranged. A scanner SC1 is provided in the face-to-face zone ZO11. The scanner SC1 is connected to the manned cash register 40. The scanner SC1 may be either a stationary type or a handheld type. When registering, as purchased goods, the goods brought into the face-to-face zone ZO11 by the customer M1 without being registered by the cart terminal 10, the scanner SC1 scans code symbols such as barcodes or two-dimensional data codes indicated on the goods under the operation of the store clerk M2.

[0018] The self-checkout machine 50 is a payment terminal that allows customers to perform operations related to the payment of purchased goods registered by the virtual POS server 30. The self-checkout machine 50 executes accounting processing to determine the price related to the sale and purchase of the purchased goods. The self-checkout machine 50 is equipped with a printer 50a and issues vouchers such as receipts by printing on a medium for the customer to receive.

[0019] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, the self-checkout machine 50 is installed in the self-zone ZO12 within the accounting zone ZO1. No store clerk M2 is assigned to exclusively operate the self-checkout machine 50.

[0020] In FIG. 2, two manned checkout machines 40 and three self-checkout machines 50 are shown, but the number of each of the manned checkout machines 40 and the self-checkout machines 50 is arbitrary depending on the circumstances of the store operator. Also, the manned checkout machines 40 may not be provided.

[0021] The beacon transmitter 60 transmits a predetermined beacon signal. A plurality of beacon transmitters 60 may be arranged. The number of installed units, the installation location, and the transmission intensity of the beacon transmitter 60 are adjusted so that the inside of the accounting zone ZO1 shown in FIG. 2 is generally within the receivable range.

[0022] The store clerk terminal 70 is an information processing terminal that performs information processing to support the work of the store clerk M2. The store clerk terminal 70 is, for example, a portable information terminal carried by the store clerk M2 in charge of the maintenance of the cart C. Also, the store clerk terminal 70 is, for example, a monitoring terminal for monitoring the operation status of the store system 1. A plurality of store clerk terminals 70 may be included in the store system 1. And in this case, a plurality of types may be included as the store clerk terminal 70.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the cart terminal 10. The cart terminal 10 includes a tablet computer 11, a scanner 12, a reader 13, a camera 14, a beacon receiver 15, and an external battery 16.

[0024] The tablet computer 11 includes a processor 11a, a main memory 11b, an auxiliary storage unit 11c, a wireless unit 11d, a touch panel 11e, a sound unit 11f, an interface unit 11g, a transmission path 11h, a power supply unit 11i, and a battery unit 11j. The processor 11a, the main memory 11b, the auxiliary storage unit 11c, the wireless unit 11d, the touch panel 11e, the sound unit 11f, and the interface unit 11g are communicable via the transmission path 11h. And, by connecting the processor 11a, the main memory 11b, and the auxiliary storage unit 11c by the transmission path 11h, a computer for controlling the cart terminal 10 is configured.

[0025] The processor 11a corresponds to the central part of the above computer. The processor 11a executes information processing for realizing various functions as the cart terminal 10 according to information processing programs such as an operating system and application programs. The processor 11a is, for example, a CPU (central processing unit).

[0026] The main memory 11b corresponds to the main storage part of the above computer. The main memory 11b includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 11b stores the above information processing program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 11b may store data necessary for the processor 11a to execute information processing in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 11b uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 11a. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (read only memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (random access memory).

[0027] The auxiliary storage unit 11c corresponds to the auxiliary storage part of the above computer. As the auxiliary storage unit 11c, for example, a storage unit using a well-known storage device such as an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disc drive), or an SSD (solid state drive) can be used. The auxiliary storage unit 11c stores data used by the processor 11a to perform various processes, or data created by the processes in the processor 11a. The auxiliary storage unit 11c may store the above information processing program.

[0028] The wireless unit 11d exchanges data with the access point 2a through wireless communication according to a wireless communication protocol. The touch panel 11e includes a display device and a touch sensor. The display device displays an arbitrary screen such as a GUI (graphical user interface) screen under the control of the processor 11a. As the display device, for example, a well-known device such as a color LCD (liquid crystal display) can be used. The touch sensor is arranged to overlap the display surface of the display device. The touch sensor detects the touch position of the operator on the display surface of the display device and sends the position information to the processor 11a. As the touch sensor, a well-known device can be used.

[0029] The sound unit 11f outputs various sounds such as voices and melodies. The scanner 12, the reader 13, the camera 14, and the beacon receiver 15 are connected to the interface unit 11g. The interface unit 11g interfaces the data exchange between the scanner 12, the reader 13, the camera 14, and the beacon receiver 15 and the processor 11a. As the interface unit 11g, an existing USB (universal serial bus) controller or the like can be used. The transmission path 11h includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc., and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the processor 11a, the main memory 11b, the auxiliary storage unit 11c, the wireless unit 11d, the touch panel 11e, and the interface unit 11g.

[0030] The power supply unit 11i receives power supply from the battery unit 11j or the external battery 16 and supplies operating power to the electrical elements in the tablet computer 11. When being supplied with power from the external battery 16, the power supply unit 11i consumes the supplied power from the external battery 16, and when not being supplied with power from the external battery 16, the power supply unit 11i consumes the supplied power from the battery unit 11j. The battery unit 11j is charged by the power supply from the external battery 16. When not being supplied with power from the external battery 16, the battery unit 11j supplies the charged power to the power supply unit 11i. The battery unit 11j has a function of measuring its own remaining amount.

[0031] The scanner 12 reads code symbols such as barcodes or two-dimensional data codes. The scanner 12 is mainly used to read code symbols shown on a product and representing the product code or the like of the product. The scanner 12 may be used to read code symbols shown on a membership card or displayed on a mobile terminal and representing a membership code or the like. The scanner 12 outputs the data represented by the read code symbol. The scanner 12 may be of a type that reads code symbols by scanning laser light, or may be of a type that reads code symbols from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0032] The reader 13 reads and outputs the data recorded on the recording medium. When the recording medium is a magnetic card, the reader 13 is a magnetic card reader, and when it is a contact-type IC card, the reader 13 is an IC card reader. In the case of a recording medium using RFID (radio frequency identification) such as a non-contact IC card or a smartphone, etc., an RFID reader is used as the reader 13. The camera 14 takes an overhead view of the inside of the shopping basket placed on the cart C. Then, the camera 14 outputs image data representing the captured image.

[0033] The beacon receiver 15 receives the beacon signal transmitted by the beacon transmitter 60. Then, when the beacon receiver 15 can receive the beacon signal, it outputs notification data for notifying the processor 11a of that fact. The external battery 16 is detachable from the tablet computer 11. When the external battery 16 is attached to the tablet computer 11, it supplies the stored power to the tablet computer 11.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the cart C. The cart C includes a caster unit C1, a handle frame unit C2, and a basket receiving unit C3. The caster unit C1 has four wheels C11 for smoothly moving the cart C on the floor surface. The wheels C11 are attached to the frame C12 so as to be rotatable around a vertical axis. The handle frame unit C2 includes a pair of vertical frames C21, C21 and a handle bar C22. The vertical frames C21, C21 are erected above two wheels of the caster unit C1. The handle bar C22 connects the upper ends of the vertical frames C21, C21. The basket receiving unit C3 is provided horizontally from a middle part of the handle frame unit C2. The basket receiving unit C3 holds a shopping basket SB for accommodating goods. Note that the caster unit C1 also holds the shopping basket SB on it.

[0035] Customer M1 using cart C is typically located in front of the handle frame part C2 in FIG. 7. Then, customer M1 pushes cart C while gripping the handlebar C22. That is, in this case, the direction in which the receiving part C3 protrudes with respect to the handle frame part C2 is the forward direction of cart C.

[0036] Scanner 12 is attached to the middle part of the handlebar C22. Also, a pole C4 is attached to one of the vertical frames C21 such that its tip is located above the handlebar C22. And the above-mentioned tablet computer 11 is attached to the tip of this pole C4 in a posture where the screen of the touch panel 11e faces the opposite side of the forward direction. Also, a camera 14 is attached to the middle part of the pole C4 in a posture facing the shopping basket SB held by the receiving part C3. Further, a reader 13 is attached to the tablet computer 11. In FIG. 7, reader 13 is a magnetic card reader. The card slit of reader 13 is oriented in the same direction as the screen of the touch panel 11e. A battery case BC is attached between the vertical frames C21, C21 on the lower end side of the handle frame part C2. Battery case BC houses the external battery 16.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the virtual POS server 30. The virtual POS server 30 includes a processor 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage unit 33, a communication interface 34, and a transmission path 35. The processor 31, the main memory 32, the auxiliary storage unit 33, and the communication interface 34 are communicable via the transmission path 35. And by connecting the processor 31, the main memory 32, and the auxiliary storage unit 33 by the transmission path 35, a computer for controlling the virtual POS server 30 is configured. Note that the general outlines of the functions of the processor 31, the main memory 32, the auxiliary storage unit 33, and the transmission path 35 are equivalent to those of the processor 11a, the main memory 11b, the auxiliary storage unit 11c, and the transmission path 11h, so the description thereof is omitted. The communication interface 34 performs data communication with each unit connected to the communication network 2 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0038] The auxiliary storage unit 33 stores a transaction processing program AP1 which is one of the information processing programs. The transaction processing program AP1 is an application program and describes the sales processing which will be described later. A part of the storage area of the auxiliary storage unit 33 is used as a cart management database DB1 and a purchased goods database DB2.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the data record DR4 included in the cart management database DB1. The cart management database DB1 is a set of data records DR4 associated with each of the carts C used by the customer M1. And the data record DR4 includes fields F41, F42, F43, F44, F45. In the field F41, a terminal code for identifying the cart terminal 10 attached to the associated cart C from other cart terminals 10 is set. In the field F42, a membership code for identifying the customer M1 using the associated cart C from other customers is set. In the field F43, a transaction code for identifying the transaction performed using the associated cart C from other transactions is set. In the field F44, the electronic receipt ID of the customer M1 using the associated cart C is set. In the field F45, the number of points held by the customer M1 using the associated cart C is set. Note that the data record DR4 may include other fields in which data different from the fields F41 to F45 is set.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the data record DR5 included in the purchased goods database DB2. The purchased item database DB2 is a set of data records DR5 associated with each shopping operation being carried out in the store. And the data record DR5 includes fields F51, F52. The data record DR5 may also include fields F53, F54, …. In field F51, a transaction code defined for the associated shopping is set. This transaction code is the same as the transaction code set in field F42 of the data record DR4 associated with the cart C used for the associated shopping. In field F52, item data regarding the items already registered as purchased items for the associated shopping is set. The item data includes an item code, a unit price, an item name, a quantity, and a cancellation flag. The item code is an identification code defined for identifying items on a per-SKU (stock keeping unit) basis, and for example, a JAN (Japanese article number) code is used. The cancellation flag is flag data for identifying an item that was once registered as a purchased item but was subsequently cancelled.

[0041] When two or more purchased items have been registered for the associated shopping in the data record DR5, fields from F53 onwards are included. And in the fields from F53 onwards, item data is set in the same way as in field F52. Thus, each field from F52 onwards represents a list of purchased items for the associated shopping. In the following, this list of purchased items is referred to as the item list.

[0042] Now, as the hardware of the virtual POS server 30, for example, a general-purpose network server can be used. And generally, the transfer of the virtual POS server 30 is performed with the transaction processing program AP1 stored in the auxiliary storage unit 33 and the cart management database DB1 and the purchased item database DB2 not stored. However, the hardware in a state where the transaction processing program AP1 is not stored in the auxiliary storage unit 33 or a state where a different version of the same type of transaction processing program AP1 is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 33, and the transaction processing program AP1 may be transferred individually. And according to the operation of an arbitrary operator, the virtual POS server 30 may be configured by writing the transaction processing program AP1 to the auxiliary storage unit 33. The transfer of the transaction processing program AP1 can be performed by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, a semiconductor memory, etc., or by communication via a network. The cart management database DB1 and the purchased item database DB2 are configured in the auxiliary storage unit 33 when the processor 31 executes information processing based on the transaction processing program AP1. Note that at least a part of the transaction processing program AP1, the cart management database DB1, and the purchased item database DB2 may be stored in the main memory 32.

[0043] Next, the operation of the store system 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15. Note that the contents of the various processes described below are examples, and changes in the order of some processes, omission of some processes, or addition of other processes are possible as appropriate. When the cart terminal 10 is activated, the processor 11a executes the information processing described below according to the information processing program stored in the main memory 11b or the auxiliary storage unit 11c. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the information processing executed by the processor 11a in the cart terminal 10.

[0044] (Start of use of cart C) As ACT1, the processor 11a waits for a start operation to be performed. At this time, the processor 11a is in a state of waiting for shopping using the attached cart C to start. For example, in this waiting state, the processor 11a causes a screen representing the start button to be displayed on the touch panel 11e. The customer M1 takes out one of the carts C placed in the cart storage area and performs a predetermined operation for starting use on the cart terminal 10 attached to the cart C. If the customer M1 is a member, the customer M1 causes the member code recorded on the membership card to be read by the scanner 12 or the reader 13. If the customer M1 is not a member, the customer M1 operates the above start button. Then, if these operations are performed, the processor 11a determines YES that a start operation for use has been performed and proceeds to ACT2.

[0045] As ACT2, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the terminal code and the member code of the cart terminal 10 mounted on itself. This is a notification of a login request. Note that when the start button is touched, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 of a member code predetermined for non-members. The member code for non-members may be common to a plurality of customers or may be different. Specifically, the processor 11a transmits notification data including the terminal code and the member code from the wireless unit 11d to the access point 2a addressed to the virtual POS server 30. This notification data is transmitted to the virtual POS server 30 by the access point 2a and the communication network 2. Then, the communication interface 34 of the virtual POS server 30 receives the notification data. The communication interface 34 gives the received notification data to the processor 31. Thereby, a login request is notified to the processor 31. In the description of another notification hereinafter, the above detailed description will be omitted.

[0046] When receiving the notification of the login request, the processor 31 starts information processing for transaction processing as described below. The processor 31 executes the information processing according to the transaction processing program AP1.

[0047] FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are flowcharts showing the procedure of information processing for transaction processing by the processor 31. Note that the processor 31 starts this information processing every time it receives a login request notification, and executes a plurality of information processes in parallel. That is, the processor 31 executes the following information processes in parallel for a plurality of cart terminals 10. In the following, the information processing for one cart terminal 10 notified of login as described above will be described. Therefore, when simply referred to as "cart terminal 10", it refers to one cart terminal 10 that is the above-mentioned target. Also, when simply referred to as "customer M1", it refers to customer M1 using one cart terminal 10 that is the above-mentioned target.

[0048] As ACT20 in FIG. 12, the processor 31 checks whether the member who requested the login is already logged in. For example, if the member code included in the login request notification data is not for non-members and does not match any of the member codes set in the field F42 of the data record DR4 included in the cart management database DB1, the processor 31 determines that the member is not logged in. Also, when the member code included in the login request notification data is for non-members, the processor 31 also determines that the member is not logged in. Then, if the processor 31 determines that the member is not logged in in this way, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT21.

[0049] As ACT21, the processor 31 makes a member inquiry to the member server 5. For example, the processor 31 makes an inquiry to the member server 5 with the notification of the member code included in the above-mentioned login request notification data. The member server 5 finds a data record DR2 in which the member code set in the field F21 matches the notified member code from among the data records DR2 included in the member database. Then, the member server 5 notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the electronic receipt ID and the number of points set in the fields F22 and F23 of the data record DR2.

[0050] As ACT22, the processor 31 updates the cart management database DB1 to add a new data record DR4. The processor 31 sets the terminal code and member code included in the notification data to the fields F41 and F42 in the data record DR4 to be added here. Also, the processor 31 determines a transaction code using a predetermined algorithm so that it is different from the transaction code used in the transaction process for at least another cart terminal 10. Then, this transaction code is set to the field F43 of the above-mentioned data record DR4 to be added. Also, the processor 31 sets the electronic receipt ID and the number of points notified from the member server 5 as described above to the fields F44 and F45 of the above-mentioned data record DR4 to be added, respectively. Note that if the electronic receipt ID notified from the member server 5 is not notified, the processor 31 sets the field F44 of the above-mentioned data record DR4 to a blank state or sets predetermined invalid data. And after finishing the above update, the processor 31 notifies the cart terminal 10 of the completion of login.

[0051] As ACT23, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display a completion screen. The completion screen is a screen that notifies the customer that the login has been completed. The completion screen may also represent guidance for the customer, such as that it is possible to start registering the purchased goods. For example, the processor 31 transmits instruction data including screen data representing the completion screen from the communication interface 34 to the cart terminal 10. This instruction data is transmitted to the cart terminal 10 via the communication network 2 and the access point 2a. Then, the wireless unit 11d of the cart terminal 10 receives the instruction data. The wireless unit 11d gives the received instruction data to the processor 11a. Thereby, the processor 11a is instructed to display the completion screen. Various instructions from the virtual POS server 30 to the cart terminal 10 are performed in the same manner as the above-mentioned instruction to display the completion screen. Therefore, in the following description of other instructions, the above detailed description will be omitted.

[0052] (Registration of Purchased Items) After the processor 11a in the cart terminal 10 notifies a login request at ACT2 in FIG. 11, it waits for a notification of login completion from the virtual POS server 30 and proceeds to ACT3. As ACT3, the processor 11a checks whether a screen change has been instructed by the virtual POS server 30 as described later. If the processor 11a cannot confirm that the instruction has been made, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT4. As ACT4, the processor 11a checks whether any operation has been performed by the operator. Usually, the operator is customer M1, but sometimes store clerk M2 may temporarily become the operator. If the processor 11a cannot confirm that the corresponding operation has been performed, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT5.

[0053] As ACT5, the processor 11a checks whether a beacon signal has been received. If it cannot confirm that a notification of receiving a beacon signal from the beacon receiver 15 has been made, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT6. As ACT6, the processor 11a checks whether logout has been permitted by the virtual POS server 30. If the processor 11a cannot confirm that the permission has been made, it determines NO and returns to ACT3. Thus, in ACT3 to ACT6, the processor 11a waits for any of a screen change instruction, an operation, a beacon signal reception, and a logout permission to be made.

[0054] When various display instructions such as a display instruction for the completion screen as described above are made, the processor 11a determines YES at ACT3 and proceeds to ACT7. As ACT7, the processor 11a changes the display screen on the touch panel 11e according to the display instruction. For example, the processor 11a controls the touch panel 11e to display the screen represented by the screen data included in the instruction data. If the screen data included in the instruction data represents the above-mentioned completion screen, the display screen of the touch panel 11e is changed to the completion screen. Thereby, the customer M1 can know that it is possible to start the operation for registering the purchased product. After that, the processor 11a returns to the waiting state of ACT3 to ACT6.

[0055] The customer M1 moves around the store while pushing the cart C to look for the products to be purchased. If the customer M1 finds the product to be purchased, the customer takes out the product from the display location and places it on the cart C. At this time, the customer M1 performs an operation for designating the corresponding product as a purchased product. The operation is, for example, an operation of the scanner 12 for reading the code symbol displayed on the corresponding product. The above operation is also, for example, an operation of the touch panel 11e for designating the corresponding product. When the customer M1 registers a plurality of products having the same product code as purchased products, the customer may perform an operation of designating the quantity and then let the scanner 12 read the code symbol only once.

[0056] If any operation including such an operation is performed by the operator, the processor 11a determines YES in ACT4 and proceeds to ACT8. As ACT8, the processor 11a notifies the processor 31 of the virtual POS server 30 of the operation details. When an operation of the scanner 12 for reading the code symbol displayed on the product is performed, the processor 11a acquires the data of the code symbol read by the scanner 12 from the scanner 12. The data of the code symbol includes a product code for identifying the product. When an operation of the touch panel 11e for designating a product is performed, the processor 11a acquires, for example, by referring to a data table, the product code related to the product designated by the operation. The data table represents the product code in association with the content of the operation and is stored, for example, in advance in the auxiliary storage unit 11c. That is, the processor 11a acquires the product code in these ways and has a function as an acquisition means. When notifying an operation for designating a product as a purchased product, the processor 11a notifies the product code and the quantity of the designated product. When no operation for designating the quantity is performed, the processor 11a sets the quantity to "1". Then, the processor 11a returns to the waiting state of ACT3 to ACT6.

[0057] Now, in the virtual POS server 30, as ACT24 in FIG. 12, the processor 31 checks whether the operation details have been notified. If the processor 31 cannot confirm that the corresponding notification has been made, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT25. As ACT25, the processor 31 checks whether the reception of the beacon signal has been notified. If the processor 31 cannot confirm that the corresponding notification has been made, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT26. As ACT26, the processor 31 checks whether accounting data has been requested. If the processor 31 cannot confirm that the corresponding request has been made, it determines NO and returns to ACT24. Thus, in ACT24 to ACT26, the processor 31 waits for any of the notification of the operation details, the notification of the beacon reception, and the request for the accounting data to be made.

[0058] If the operation content is notified as described above, the processor 31 determines YES in ACT24 and proceeds to ACT27 in FIG. 13. As ACT27, the processor 31 checks whether the notified operation content is the designation of the purchased product. If the processor 31 determines that it is the designation of the purchased product, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT28.

[0059] As ACT28, the processor 31 updates the product list to add the designated purchased product. For example, the processor 31 finds a data record DR4 among the data records DR4 included in the cart management database DB1, where the terminal code set in the field F41 matches the terminal code of the cart terminal 10. Then the processor 31 obtains the transaction code set in the field F43 of the corresponding data record DR4. Next, the processor 31 finds a data record DR5 among the data records DR5 included in the purchased product database DB2, where the transaction code set in the field F51 matches the above-obtained transaction code. If the corresponding data record DR5 does not exist, the processor 31 sets the above-obtained transaction code in the field F51 and adds a new data record DR5 with the product data including the product code of the designated purchased product set in the field F52 to the purchased product database DB2. If the corresponding data record DR5 is found, the processor 31 adds a new field next to the field located at the end of the corresponding data record DR5 and sets the product data including the product code of the designated purchased product in this field. Note that the cancellation flag of the product data newly set by the processor 31 here is in a state indicating that it has not been cancelled. Note that the product data set in the field F52 or the new field includes the product name, price, and issuance confirmation information obtained from the product master database of the store server 20 using the product code as a key, and the quantity notified from the cart terminal 10 together with the product code.

[0060] By the way, if customer M1 wants to cancel the purchase of the purchased product registered as described above, an operation for instructing cancellation regarding the product is performed, for example, on the touch panel 11e. When the content of this operation is notified from the cart terminal 10 to the virtual POS server 30, the processor 31 determines NO in ACT27 and proceeds to ACT29. As ACT29, the processor 31 checks whether the notified operation content is an instruction for cancellation. If it is an instruction for cancellation as described above, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT30. As ACT30, the processor 31 updates the product list so as to exclude the purchased product for which cancellation has been instructed. For example, the processor 31 changes the cancellation flag included in the product data regarding the purchased product for which cancellation has been specified to a state indicating that it has been cancelled.

[0061] Note that in ACT28 or ACT30, the processor 31 calculates the amount of the purchased product based on the product data included in the updated product list. When calculating this amount, the processor 31 applies various well-known value discount processes or discount processes as necessary. When the processor 31 finishes ACT28 or ACT30, in any case, it proceeds to ACT31. As ACT31, the processor 31 checks whether it is in a state that allows through-checkout. Here, through-checkout means performing accounting in the procedure at the cart terminal 10 without using the manned cashier 40 and the self-checkout 50. The processor 31 checks whether a predetermined allowable condition is satisfied. If the allowable condition is satisfied, the processor 31 determines YES as being in a state that allows through-checkout and proceeds to ACT32. The acceptance conditions may be arbitrarily determined by, for example, the creator of the transaction processing program AP1 or the administrator of the virtual POS server 30. It is assumed that the acceptance conditions do not apply to any of the following cases. However, it is not essential to consider all of the following conditions. For example, if there is no need to print a ticket, the acceptance conditions may be considered to be satisfied. Also, for example, if the purchased goods do not include goods with an age limit, the acceptance conditions may be considered to be satisfied. Alternatively, if customer M1 is a member of the e-receipt service, the acceptance conditions may be considered to be satisfied.

[0062] (1) When it is necessary to hand over a ticket to customer M1. The ticket may be a receipt, a purchase certificate, a warranty, a coupon, a discount coupon, or others. Typically, the ticket is printed at the time of accounting by a printer 50a provided in the manned cash register 40 or the self-checkout machine 50. The ticket may be a pre-prepared printed matter. The ticket may be formed by a store clerk handwriting some information on a pre-prepared piece of paper. In principle, a receipt should be issued for all transactions. However, if customer M1 is a member of the e-receipt service, the issuance of the receipt can be omitted by using the e-receipt service. Therefore, in this embodiment, when customer M1 is not a member of the e-receipt service, it corresponds to the case where it is necessary to hand over a ticket to customer M1. Regarding this condition, for example, if a valid e-receipt ID is not set in the field F44 of the data record DR4 associated with the cart terminal 10, the processor 31 determines that it is necessary to hand over a ticket to customer M1. Also, for example, if the issuance confirmation information including flag information indicating whether it is necessary to issue a ticket is included in any of the product data included in the data record DR5 associated with the transaction related to the cart terminal 10, the processor 31 determines that it is necessary to hand over a ticket to customer M1.

[0063] (2) When the purchased goods include goods that require the response by the store clerk M2. The response by the store clerk M2 in this case is, for example, when the purchased goods include goods with restrictions such as age restrictions, to confirm whether the customer M1 meets the restrictions. The response by the store clerk M2 is, for example, to give an explanation to the customer M1 for goods that require an explanation by a qualified person at the time of purchase. The response by the store clerk M2 is, for example, when the purchased goods include goods for which it is stipulated to give a gift to the purchaser, to hand over the above-mentioned gift to the customer M1. The response by the store clerk M2 is, for example, for the store clerk M2 to verbally explain the goods to the customer M1. Regarding this condition, for example, if the issue confirmation information including flag information indicating that confirmation by a store clerk is required for any of the product data included in the data record DR5 associated with the transaction regarding the cart terminal 10 is included, the processor 31 determines that the purchased goods include goods that require the response by the store clerk M2.

[0064] (3) When there is a possibility that goods that require confirmation by the store clerk M2 are placed in the cart C. The confirmation by the store clerk M2 in this case is, for example, the confirmation when there is a possibility that they are placed in the cart C without being registered as purchased goods.

[0065] (4) When a payment method that requires the response by a store clerk is specified. The payment method that requires the response by a store clerk is, for example, a payment method such as payment by gift certificate for which handling at the self-checkout machine 50 is not permitted and for which it is stipulated that a store clerk shall handle it. An example of the above-mentioned case is when the application of the corresponding payment method is specified as the default payment method regarding the customer M1. Alternatively, an example of the above-mentioned case is when the corresponding payment method is specified as the payment method for the purchased goods being registered before the registration of the purchased goods is completed.

[0066] As ACT32, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display the registration screen. The registration screen is a screen showing a list of registered purchased goods. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the registration screen SC11. The registration screen SC11 represents areas AR1, AR2, AR3, buttons BU1, BU2, BU3, and icon IC1. Area AR1 represents, in the row direction, the product names of the products shown in the product list after being updated in ACT28 or ACT30. Area AR1 also represents, in the column direction with respect to the above product names, the points for which the product is registered as a purchased product and the selling price of the product. Area AR1 has a strikethrough for the product name, points, and selling price of a product that is shown in the product list but is in a state indicating that the cancellation flag has been canceled. That is, the registration screen SC11 represents a state where products with product names "AAA", "BBB", "DDD", and "EEE" are registered products, and a product with a product name "CCC" was once registered as a product but has already been canceled.

[0067] Area AR2 is arranged side by side in each row of area AR1. Although not shown in FIG. 16, area AR2 shows icons corresponding to the associated products as necessary. The icons shown in area AR2 represent, for example, that the product is a target product for various discounts such as set discounts, or that the product is an age-restricted product. Area AR3 represents the total points and the total amount for the purchased products that have been registered. The processor 31 represents the amount calculated in ACT28 or ACT30 as the total amount in area AR3.

[0068] Button BU1 is arranged side by side in the row representing the purchased product among the rows of area AR1. Button BU1 is an operation button for the operator to instruct the cancellation of the purchased product arranged side by side. That is, when button BU1 is touched and this is notified from the cart terminal 10 to the virtual POS server 30, the processor 31 determines that a cancellation has been instructed in ACT29. Button BU2 is an operation button for the operator to instruct the transition to settlement after finishing the registration of the purchased product. Button BU3 is an operation button for the operator to instruct to transition to an operation screen for registering a product without a code symbol shown as a purchased product. Icon IC1 is an icon for notifying customer M1 that through-checkout is permitted.

[0069] Processor 31 generates screen data of registration screen SC11 representing information based on the updated product list at ACT28 or ACT30 in areas AR1, AR2, AR3, and transmits this screen data to cart terminal 10. Then, at cart terminal 10, processor 11a displays registration screen SC11 on touch panel 11e based on the said screen data.

[0070] On the other hand, if a predetermined allowable condition is not satisfied, processor 31 determines NO at ACT31 and proceeds to ACT33. As ACT33, processor 31 instructs cart terminal 10 to display registration screen SC11. However, icon IC1 is not shown on registration screen SC11 generated by processor 31 at ACT33.

[0071] Thus, on registration screen SC11, the information represented in areas AR1, AR2, AR3, the display state of button BU1, and the presence or absence of the display of icon IC1 can change from the state shown in FIG. 16, and other display elements generally do not change. Then, processor 31 changes whether or not to show icon IC1 on registration screen SC11 according to whether or not through-checkout is an allowable situation. After finishing ACT32 or ACT33, processor 31 returns to the standby state of ACT24 to ACT26 in FIG. 12.

[0072] (Replacement of Cart C) By the way, customer M1, who is a member, can change the cart C being used when, for example, the remaining battery level in the cart C being used decreases. In this case, customer M1 performs a start - of - use operation on a cart C that is different from the cart C being used and is not being used by another customer M1.

[0073] When a login request in response to this start - of - use operation is notified from the cart terminal 10 of cart C (hereafter referred to as the new terminal 10) to the virtual POS server 30, the processor 31 starts information processing for the new terminal 10. At this time, the member code included in the notification data of the login request matches the member code set in the field F42 of the data record DR4 associated with the cart terminal 10 of the cart C being used (hereafter referred to as the old terminal 10). Therefore, the processor 31 determines YES in ACT20 of the information processing for the new terminal 10 and proceeds to ACT34.

[0074] As ACT34, the processor 31 updates the cart management database DB1 to make a change. For example, the processor 31 finds a data record DR4 from among the data records DR4 included in the cart management database DB1, where the member code set in the field F42 matches the member code included in the notification data of the login request. Then the processor 31 rewrites the terminal code set in the field F41 of the corresponding data record DR4 with the terminal code of the new terminal 10. As a result, the product list that has been the target of updates in the information processing related to the old terminal 10 so far is taken over as the target of updates in the information processing related to the new terminal 10. And after finishing the said update, the processor 31 notifies the new terminal 10 of the completion of login.

[0075] As ACT35, the processor 31 instructs the new terminal 10 to display the screen being displayed on the touch panel 11e at the old terminal 10. After this, the processor 31 shifts to the standby state of ACT24 to ACT26. Thereafter, customer M1 can continue to register purchased products using the new terminal 10. In this case, in the information processing for the old terminal 10, the processor 31 will stay in the waiting state of ACT24 to ACT26. In this case, when the processor 31 receives some notification from the old terminal 10, after confirming that there is no data record DR4 associated with the old terminal 10, the information processing for the old terminal 10 is terminated.

[0076] (Accounting) When customer M1 has finished registering all the products to be purchased as purchased products, customer M1 moves to the accounting zone ZO1. As a result, when the cart terminal 10 enters the receivable range of the beacon signal transmitted by the beacon transmitter 60, the beacon receiver 15 receives the beacon signal. When this is notified from the beacon receiver 15 to the processor 11a, the processor 11a determines YES at ACT5 in FIG. 11 and proceeds to ACT9. As ACT9, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the beacon reception. Then, the processor 11a returns to the waiting state of ACT3 to ACT6 afterwards.

[0077] When the virtual POS server 30 is notified of the beacon reception in this way, the processor 31 determines YES at ACT25 in FIG. 12 and proceeds to ACT36. As ACT36, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display the first confirmation screen. The first confirmation screen is a screen for confirming whether to start accounting. The first confirmation screen represents, for example, a button for designating to start accounting and a button for designating to return to the sales floor and continue registering purchased products. Then, the processor 31 returns to the waiting state of ACT24 to ACT26 afterwards.

[0078] The cart terminal 10 causes the touch panel 11e to display the first confirmation screen in response to the above instruction. Customer M1 instructs on the first confirmation screen whether to start accounting or return to the sales floor and continue registering purchased products. Then, accordingly, the cart terminal 10 notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the content of the operation on the first confirmation screen.

[0079] When the content of the operation on the first confirmation screen is notified in this way, the processor 31 determines YES at ACT24 in FIG. 12, NO at ACT27 and ACT29 in FIG. 13 respectively, and proceeds to ACT37 in FIG. 14. As ACT37, the processor 31 checks whether the content of the operation on the first confirmation screen has been notified. Thus, the processor 31 determines YES in the above case and proceeds to ACT38.

[0080] As ACT38, the processor 31 checks whether an instruction to start accounting has been given. And if the processor 31 is instructed to continue registering the purchased goods, it determines NO and returns to the waiting state of ACT24 to ACT26 in FIG. 12. At this time, after the processor 31 returns to the waiting state of ACT24 to ACT26, it does not determine YES at ACT25 until a predetermined time has elapsed. Thereby, even if an instruction to continue registering the purchased goods on the first confirmation screen is given while the customer M1 is in the accounting zone ZO1, subsequent beacon receptions for a while are ignored.

[0081] By the way, if the customer M1 changes his mind and still wants to start accounting during the period when beacon reception is ignored as described above, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, the customer M1 causes the scanner 12 of the cart terminal 10 to read the accounting barcode BC1 installed in the accounting zone ZO1. Also, when the beacon receiver 15 fails to receive the beacon signal due to some obstacle and the first confirmation screen is not displayed even when moving into the accounting zone ZO1, the customer M1 operates the scanner 12 of the cart terminal 10 to read the accounting barcode BC1. In response, the cart terminal 10 notifies the virtual POS server 30 that the scanner 12 has been operated, along with the notification of the accounting barcode.

[0082] In this case, the processor 31 determines YES at ACT24 in FIG. 12, NO at ACT27, ACT29 in FIG. 13 and ACT37 in FIG. 14 respectively, and proceeds to ACT39. As ACT39, the processor 31 checks whether it is the reading of the accounting barcode. If the processor 31 is notified of the operation of reading the accounting barcode as described above, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT40. Note that when the start of accounting is instructed on the first confirmation screen, the processor 31 determines YES in ACT38 and proceeds to ACT40.

[0083] As ACT40, the processor 31 checks in the same manner as ACT31 whether it is in a state that allows through-checkout. If the processor 31 is in a state that allows through-checkout, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT41. As ACT41, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display the selection screen. The selection screen is a screen for allowing the customer M1 to select whether to apply through-checkout. After that, the processor 31 returns to the waiting state of ACT24 to ACT26 in FIG. 12. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the selection screen SC12. The selection screen SC12 represents the area AR21, buttons BU21, BU22, BU23, and message ME21. The area AR21 represents the amount that the customer M1 should pay. The button BU21 is an operation button for the operator to specify applying through-checkout. The button BU22 is an operation button for the operator to specify using the self-checkout machine 50. The button BU23 is an operation button for the operator to instruct to return the display on the cart terminal 10 to the screen that was displayed before this selection screen SC12 was displayed. The message ME21 is a text message that guides the operator to select whether to perform accounting at the cart terminal 10 by applying through-checkout or to perform accounting using the self-checkout machine by the button BU21 or the button BU22. Thus, on the selection screen SC12, the amount represented in the area AR21 can change from the state shown in FIG. 17 according to the registration status of the purchased goods, and the other display elements generally do not change.

[0084] The cart terminal 10 causes the selection screen SC12 to be displayed on the touch panel 11e in response to the above instructions. The customer M1 instructs on the selection screen SC12 whether to apply the through-checkout or use the self-checkout machine 50. In response thereto, the cart terminal 10 notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the content of the operation on the selection screen SC12. That is, the processor 11a will select whether to apply the through-checkout or use the self-checkout machine 50 according to the operation of the customer M1. When the content of the operation on the selection screen SC12 is notified in this way, the processor 31 determines YES at ACT24 in FIG. 12, NO at ACT27, ACT29 in FIG. 13, and ACT37 and ACT39 in FIG. 14 respectively, and proceeds to ACT42.

[0085] As ACT42, the processor 31 checks whether the content of the operation on the selection screen SC12 has been notified. Thus, the processor 31 determines YES in the above case and proceeds to ACT43. As ACT43, the processor 31 checks whether it is specified to apply the through-checkout based on the notification from the cart terminal 10. And the processor 31 determines YES if it is specified to apply the through-checkout, and proceeds to ACT44 in FIG. 15.

[0086] As ACT44, the processor 31 requests settlement from the settlement server 3. Specifically, for example, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display the designation screen. The designation screen is a screen for allowing the operator to designate the payment method to be used for the through-checkout. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the designation screen SC13. The designated screen SC13 represents the area AR31, buttons BU31, BU32, BU33, BU34, and message ME31. The area AR31 represents the amount that customer M1 should pay. The button BU31 is an operation button for the operator to specify barcode settlement as the payment method to be used. The button BU32 is an operation button for the operator to specify credit settlement as the payment method to be used. The button BU33 is an operation button for the operator to specify electronic money settlement as the payment method to be used. The button BU34 is an operation button for the operator to instruct to return the display on the cart terminal 10 to the screen that was displayed before this designated screen SC13 was displayed. The message ME31 is a text message that guides the operator to specify which payment method to use by means of the buttons BU31, BU32, and BU33. Thus, on the designated screen SC13, the amount represented in the area AR31 can change from the state shown in FIG. 18 according to the registration status of the purchased goods, and the other display elements generally do not change.

[0087] The cart terminal 10 causes the designated screen SC13 to be displayed on the touch panel 11e in response to the above instruction. The customer M1 designates the payment method on the designated screen SC13. In response thereto, the cart terminal 10 notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the designated payment method.

[0088] When the designated payment method is notified from the cart terminal 10, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display a payment screen corresponding to the notified payment method. The payment screen is a screen that guides the operator to perform operations for executing the payment. FIG. 19 is an example of a payment screen SC14 when barcode settlement is designated. The settlement screen SC14 represents an area AR41, buttons BU41, BU42, BU43, BU44, BU45, messages ME41, ME42, and an image IM41. The area AR41 represents the amount that customer M1 should pay for settlement. Buttons BU41 to BU44 are operation buttons for the operator to specify the barcode settlement service to be used. Available barcode settlement services are associated with buttons BU41 to BU44 respectively. Button BU45 is an operation button for the operator to instruct to return the display on the cart terminal 10 to the screen that was displayed before this settlement screen SC14. Message ME41 is a text message that guides the operator to specify which barcode settlement service to use by buttons BU41, BU42, BU43, BU44. Message ME42 is a text message that guides the operator to scan the settlement barcode displayed on the smartphone held by customer M1. Image IM41 is an image that, paired with message ME42, guides the operator to the barcode to be scanned. Thus, on the settlement screen SC14, the amount represented in area AR41 can change from the state shown in FIG. 19 according to the registration status of the purchased goods, and the other display elements generally do not change. Note that the settlement screen SC14 is an example when the use of four barcode settlement services is permitted. The number of buttons corresponding to buttons BU1 to BU4 is changed according to the number of barcode settlement services for which use is permitted. If only the use of one barcode settlement service is permitted, the buttons corresponding to buttons BU1 to BU4 are not shown on the settlement screen SC14.

[0089] The cart terminal 10 causes the payment screen SC14 to be displayed on the touch panel 11e in accordance with the above instructions. The customer M1 designates the barcode payment service to be used by operating any one of the buttons BU41 to BU44. Further, the customer M1 causes the payment barcode displayed on the smartphone by the application software for the barcode payment service to be read by the scanner 12. In response thereto, at the cart terminal 10, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 of a payment method code for identifying the barcode payment from other payment methods, a service code for identifying the designated barcode payment service from other services, and payment data represented by the payment barcode. Note that if only the use of one barcode payment service is permitted, the processor 11a may notify the virtual POS server 30 of the service code of that one barcode payment service, or may omit the notification of the service code. In the case of credit payment, data such as the credit number recorded on the credit card becomes the payment data. When credit payment is designated, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 of a payment method code for identifying the credit payment from other payment methods and the credit number read by the reader 13 from the credit card. In the case of electronic money payment, data such as the electronic money ID recorded on the electronic money card becomes the payment data. When electronic money payment is designated, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 of a payment method code for identifying the electronic money payment from other payment methods and the electronic money ID read by the reader 13 from the recording medium for electronic money. If the use of a plurality of electronic money payment services is permitted, the processor 11a receives the designation of the electronic money payment service by the customer M1 on a screen similar to the selection screen SC12, and also notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the service code of the designated electronic money payment service. Note that if only the use of one electronic money payment service is permitted, the processor 11a may notify the virtual POS server 30 of the service code of that one electronic money payment service, or may omit the notification of the service code. In addition, when a credit number, an electronic money ID, etc. are stored in the settlement server 3 or the virtual POS server 30 in association with a management code and the management code is notified to the settlement server 3 or the virtual POS server 30 upon a settlement request, the management code serves as settlement data.

[0090] If the processor 31 receives a notification from the cart terminal 10 as described above, it requests settlement from the settlement server 3 along with a notification of the settlement data. The processor 31 uses the amount calculated most recently in ACT28 or ACT30 in FIG. 13 as the settlement amount for which settlement is requested here. When the settlement server 3 supports each settlement method, the processor 31 also notifies the settlement method code to the settlement server 3 when requesting settlement. When the settlement server 3 supports each settlement service, the processor 31 also notifies the service code to the settlement server 3 when requesting settlement. When there are a plurality of settlement servers 3 corresponding to the settlement method or when there are a plurality of settlement servers 3 corresponding to the settlement service, the processor 31 selects the settlement server 3 corresponding to the settlement method and settlement service to be used based on the settlement method code and service code notified from the cart terminal 10, and requests settlement from that settlement server 3. Thus, by the processor 31 executing information processing based on the transaction processing program AP1, the computer having the processor 31 as the central part functions as a requesting means.

[0091] If a payment is requested, the payment server 3 checks whether the requested payment is possible. If the payment is possible, the payment server 3 executes the processing for the requested payment. If the payment server 3 can complete the payment, it sends a result code indicating completion to the virtual POS server 30. If the payment server 3 aborts the processing for the payment for some reason, it sends a result code indicating failure to the virtual POS server 30. If the processing for the payment has been carried out normally but it is unclear whether the payment has been completed, the payment server 3 sends a result code indicating incompletion to the virtual POS server 30. Note that the details of the processing in the payment server 3 above may be the same as the processing in an existing payment server.

[0092] In the virtual POS server 30, after the processor 31 requests a payment at ACT44 in FIG. 15, it transitions to the waiting states of ACT45 and ACT46. As ACT45, the processor 31 checks whether this waiting state has timed out. If it has not timed out, the processor 31 determines NO and proceeds to ACT46. As ACT46, the processor 31 checks whether a notification of the payment result has been received from the payment server 3. If it cannot be confirmed that the corresponding notification has been made, the processor 31 determines NO and returns to ACT45. Thus, in the waiting states of ACT45 and ACT46, the processor 31 waits for either a timeout or the result to be notified. If the result code sent from the payment server 3 as described above is received by the communication interface 34, the processor 31 determines YES at ACT46, assuming that the result has been notified, and proceeds to ACT47.

[0093] As ACT47, the processor 31 checks whether the payment has been completed. If the received result code indicates completion, the processor 31 determines YES and proceeds to ACT48. As ACT48, the processor 31 transmits the transaction data to the store server 20. The transaction data is data related to the transaction being processed. The processor 31 includes first identification data and second identification data in the transaction data. The first identification data is data for identifying a request item to the settlement server 3 regarding the settlement of the relevant transaction from other request items received by the settlement server 3. When requesting settlement from the settlement server 3, if an identification code for identifying the settlement item regarding the request is notified from the virtual POS server 30 as the request source to the settlement server 3, that identification code can be used as the first identification data. Alternatively, data that does not overlap among request items to the settlement server 3, such as a combination of an identification code for identifying the virtual POS server 30 at the settlement server 3, the date and time when the settlement was requested, and the settlement amount, can be used as the first identification data. The second identification data is data for identifying the relevant transaction data from other transaction data included in the journal database. As the second identification data, for example, a combination of a transaction code, a register code, and a date is used. The register code is a code for identifying each individual POS terminal realized by the cooperation between the cart terminal 10 and the virtual POS server 30. As the register code, a terminal code may be used, or it may be defined separately from the terminal code. The processor 31 may also include settlement data for the settlement of the transaction in the transaction data. The settlement data is, for example, at least one of the product code and quantity of the purchased product and the settlement amount. The processor 31 may include other arbitrary data related to the transaction, such as a member code, date and time, settlement method, settlement processing code, etc., in the settlement data. When the store server 20 receives the transaction data, it updates the journal database to include the transaction data. The journal database is a database representing the history of past transactions. The journal database is stored, for example, in the storage device 20a. Thus, the processor 31 outputs the transaction data to be stored in the storage device 20a as a storage device. That is, by the processor 31 executing information processing based on the transaction processing program AP1, the computer with the processor 31 as the central part functions as an output means.

[0094] As ACT49, the processor 31 performs a process for registering, in the electronic receipt server 4, the electronic receipt data related to the transaction for which the settlement has been completed as described above so that the customer M1 can view it. Note that this process may be the same as the process performed by the existing electronic receipt service.

[0095] As ACT50, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display a completion screen. The completion screen is a screen for notifying the operator that the settlement has been completed. The cart terminal 10 causes the completion screen to be displayed on the touch panel 11e in response to the above instruction. If the customer M1 confirms that the settlement has been completed by the completion screen, the customer M1 instructs the end of the use of the cart terminal 10, for example, by operating a button shown on the completion screen. Then, in response to this, in the cart terminal 10, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 that an end instruction has been given. In the virtual POS server 30, after instructing the display of the completion screen, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT51. As ACT51, the processor 31 waits for a completion instruction. Then, if the processor 31 is notified from the cart terminal 10 as described above that a completion instruction has been given, the processor 31 determines YES and proceeds to ACT65 in FIG. 12.

[0096] On the other hand, if the received result code does not indicate completion, the processor 31 determines NO in ACT47 and proceeds to ACT52. As ACT52, the processor 31 checks whether the settlement has failed. If the received result code described above indicates failure, the processor 31 determines YES and proceeds to ACT53. As ACT53, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display an error screen. The error screen is a screen for notifying the operator that the settlement has failed. The cart terminal 10 causes an error screen to be displayed on the touch panel 11e in accordance with the above instructions. If customer M1 confirms the failure of the payment via the error screen, the customer M1 instructs a retry of the payment by, for example, operating a button shown on the error screen. In response to this, in the cart terminal 10, the processor 11a notifies the virtual POS server 30 that a retry instruction has been made.

[0097] In the virtual POS server 30, after instructing the display of the error screen, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT54. As ACT54, the processor 31 waits for a retry instruction. If the processor 31 is notified from the cart terminal 10 as described above that a retry instruction has been made, the processor 31 determines YES and returns to ACT41 in FIG. 14. That is, the processor 31 returns the cart terminal 10 to a state where the selection screen SC12 is displayed on the touch panel 11e, and repeats the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above. Note that the processor 31 may return to ACT44 in FIG. 15.

[0098] If the received result code indicates incompletion, the processor 31 determines NO in both ACT47 and ACT52 in FIG. 15 and proceeds to ACT55. Note that a state where no result code is received is also a state where it is unknown whether the payment has been completed. For this reason, if the waiting states of ACT45 and ACT46 time out, the processor 31 determines YES in ACT45 and proceeds to ACT55. That is, the processor 31 detects that it is unknown whether the payment has been completed when incompletion is notified from the payment server 3 or when a time-out occurs without receiving a result code. Thus, by the processor 31 executing information processing based on the transaction processing program AP1, the computer having the processor 31 as a central part functions as a detection means. As ACT55, the processor 31 transmits transaction data to the store server 20. The transaction data transmitted here may be the same data as the transaction data transmitted in ACT48. However, the transaction data transmitted here includes data indicating that the payment is incomplete.

[0099] As ACT56, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display a second confirmation screen. The second confirmation screen is a screen for prompting the store clerk M2 to perform confirmation work regarding the uncompleted payment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the second confirmation screen SC15. The second confirmation screen SC15 shows a code symbol CS51, a message ME51, and a button BU51. The code symbol CS51 shows the second identification data included in the transaction data sent in ACT55. In the example of FIG. 20, a barcode is used as the code symbol. The message ME51 is a text message informing the customer M1 that he or she needs to ask the store clerk M2 to confirm the status of the payment. The button BU51 is an operation button that allows the store clerk M2 to instruct the customer M1 to cancel the state in which the second confirmation screen SC15 is displayed. Thus, in the second confirmation screen SC15, the code symbol CS51 may change from the state shown in FIG. 20 depending on the identification data, but the other display elements do not change in principle. Displaying the second confirmation screen SC15 corresponds to outputting the second identification data represented by the code symbol CS51. Thus, instructing the cart terminal 10 to display the second confirmation screen is the same as instructing it to output the second identification data. In other words, the processor 31 executes information processing based on the transaction processing program AP1, and the computer with the processor 31 as its central part functions as an instruction means.

[0100] The cart terminal 10 causes the touch panel 11e to display a second confirmation screen SC15 in accordance with the above instructions. Customer M1 makes a request to store clerk M2 according to the guidance by message ME51. After receiving this request, store clerk M2, for example, activates the journal search function of the manned cash register 40 and then causes the code symbol CS51 shown on the touch panel 11e of the cart terminal 10 to be read. When the manned cash register 40 reads the code symbol CS51, it determines the second identification data represented by this code symbol CS51. The manned cash register 40 acquires transaction data including the determined second identification data from the store server 20. The manned cash register 40 outputs the first identification data included in the acquired transaction data by means such as display or printing. Store clerk M2 inquires by phone or the like to a predetermined inquiry destination about the status of the electronic settlement regarding the requested case identified by the first identification data. And if store clerk M2 confirms that the settlement has been completed, store clerk M2 performs a predetermined operation for completion confirmation on the manned cash register 10. Then the manned cash register 40 requests the store server 20 to delete the transaction data included in the journal database and including the above-determined second identification data, or to rewrite the data to data indicating that the settlement has been completed, with data indicating that the settlement is outstanding. The store server 20 updates the journal database in response to this request.

[0101] If the store clerk M2 confirms that the settlement has not been completed, the store clerk M2 operates the manned accounting machine 40 to perform a settlement based on the settlement data included in the obtained transaction data. If the settlement is completed by the process corresponding to this operation, the manned accounting machine 40 requests the store server 20 to rewrite the transaction data included in the journal database and including the determined second identification data so as to represent the result of the settlement. Also, the manned accounting machine 40 requests the store server 20 to delete the transaction data included in the journal database and including the determined second identification data, or to rewrite the data to data representing that the settlement is completed, if the data represents that the settlement is incomplete. The store server 20 updates the journal database in response to these requests. Note that the work of confirming the settlement status and the work of re-performing the incomplete settlement among the above operations may be performed using separate devices. Also, the device used for the above operations may be the store clerk terminal 70.

[0102] Now, after the processor 31 in the virtual POS server 30 causes the cart terminal 10 to display the second confirmation screen SC15 in ACT56 in FIG. 15, the processor 31 shifts to the waiting state of ACT57. In ACT57, the processor 31 waits for a cancellation operation to be performed. The cancellation operation is an operation predetermined in advance to be performed by the store clerk M2 after the store clerk M2 has performed the above-described procedures. The cancellation operation is, for example, an operation of operating the button BU51 shown on the second confirmation screen SC15 with a hidden operation that the customer M1 usually does not know. When it is notified from the cart terminal 10 that such a cancellation operation has been performed, the processor 31 determines YES and proceeds to ACT65 in FIG. 12.

[0103] On the one hand, if the processor 31 determines that accounting using the self-checkout machine 50 is instructed by, for example, an operation of the button BU21 on the selection screen SC12, it determines NO at ACT43 in FIG. 14 and proceeds to ACT58. Also, when the processor 31 determines NO at ACT40 because through-checkout is not permitted, the processor 31 also proceeds to ACT58. That is, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT58 in a situation where it is necessary to start accounting with the self-checkout machine 50.

[0104] As ACT58, the processor 31 transmits accounting data to the communication network 2 so as to be acquired by one of the self-checkout machines 50 in the standby state. For example, the processor 31 finds a self-checkout machine 50 in the standby state among the self-checkout machines 50 and transmits the accounting data to the found self-checkout machine 50. Alternatively, for example, the processor 31 transmits the accounting data to one of the self-checkout machines 50 regardless of whether the self-checkout machine 50 is in the standby state. In this case, if the self-checkout machine 50 that is the transmission destination of the accounting data is in the standby state, it accepts the accounting data. However, if the self-checkout machine 50 is not in the standby state, it transfers the accounting data to one of the other self-checkout machines 50. Alternatively, for example, the processor 31 broadcasts the accounting data to a plurality of self-checkout machines 50. In this case, one of the plurality of self-checkout machines 50 in the standby state accepts the above accounting data. Note that as long as the accounting data is accepted by one self-checkout machine 50 in the standby state, the accounting data may be transmitted by any other method.

[0105] Note that the accounting data is data necessary for the self-checkout machine 50 to settle the payment for the purchased goods registered in the cart terminal 10. Specifically, for example, the processor 31 finds a data record DR4 from among the data records DR4 included in the cart management database DB1, where the terminal code set in the field F41 matches the terminal code of the cart terminal 10. Then the processor 31 acquires the transaction code set in the field F43 of the corresponding data record DR4. Next, the processor 31 finds a data record DR5 from among the data records DR5 included in the purchased goods database DB2, where the transaction code set in the field F51 matches the above-acquired transaction code. Then the processor 31 generates accounting data including the data set in each field of the above-found data record DR4 and the product data included in the above-found data record DR5. The processor 31 may calculate the settlement amount related to the sale of the purchased goods based on the product data included in the above-found data record DR5 and include it in the accounting data.

[0106] As ACT59, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display a guidance screen. The guidance screen is a screen that notifies the self-checkout machine 50 that has received the accounting data and guides the customer M1 to perform accounting at the self-checkout machine 50.

[0107] The cart terminal 10 displays a guidance screen on the touch panel 11e in response to the above instruction. The customer M1 operates the informed self-checkout machine 50 according to the guidance on the guidance screen to settle the payment for the purchased goods. Note that the operation of the self-checkout machine 50 may be the same as, for example, the operation of the accounting machine in an existing semi-self-checkout system. And if the self-checkout machine 50 completes the settlement, it notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the completion of the settlement.

[0108] As ACT60, the processor 31 waits for the self-checkout machine 50 that has received the accounting data sent at ACT58 to notify the completion of the settlement. Then, if the completion is notified, the processor 31 determines YES and proceeds to ACT65 in FIG. 12.

[0109] Incidentally, customer M1 can find the self-checkout machine 50 in the standby state and use the self-checkout machine 50 for accounting. In this case, customer M1 first operates the button BU2 shown on the registration screen SC11. In response, the cart terminal 10 notifies the virtual POS server 30 as if the accounting button has been operated. When notified that the accounting button has been operated in this way, the processor 31 determines YES at ACT24 in FIG. 12, NO at ACT27, ACT29 in FIG. 13, and ACT37, ACT39, ACT42 in FIG. 14 respectively, and proceeds to ACT61 in FIG. 14.

[0110] As ACT61, the processor 31 checks whether it is an operation of the accounting button. Thus, the processor 31 determines YES in the above case and proceeds to ACT62. If the content of the notified operation is not an operation of the accounting button, the processor 31 determines NO at ACT61 and proceeds to the process corresponding to the operation.

[0111] As ACT62, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display the scanning screen. The scanning screen is a screen for instructing the self-checkout machine 50 to acquire accounting data. After that, the processor 31 returns to the waiting state of ACT24 to ACT26 in FIG. 12. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the scanning screen SC16. The scanning screen SC16 represents an area AR61, a code symbol CS61, a message ME61, and a button BU61. The area AR61 represents the amount that customer M1 should pay. The code symbol CS61 includes data necessary for the self-checkout machine 50 to obtain accounting data regarding the cart terminal 10 from the virtual POS server 30. The data included in this code symbol includes, for example, a transaction code. In the example of FIG. 21, a barcode is used as the code symbol. The message ME61 is a text message that guides the operator to scan the code symbol CS61 with the scanner SC2 of the self-checkout machine 50. The button BU61 is an operation button for the operator to instruct logging off to end shopping. Thus, on the scanning screen SC16, the amount represented by the area AR61 and the code symbol CS61 can change from the state shown in FIG. 21 according to the registration status of the purchased goods, the transaction code, etc., and the other display elements generally do not change.

[0112] The cart terminal 10 displays the scanning screen SC16 on the touch panel 11e according to the above instructions. Customer M1 uses the scanner SC2 of the self-checkout machine 50 in the standby state to read the code symbol CS61 represented on the scanning screen SC16. When the scanner SC2 reads the code symbol CS61, the self-checkout machine 50 requests the virtual POS server 30 for accounting data regarding the cart terminal 10 based on the transaction code included in this code symbol CS61. Note that the output of the transaction code may be output by a method different from the display, such as wireless transmission using short-range wireless communication technology. The read product code may be stored in the cart terminal 10, and in this case, the product code may be output as information for accounting.

[0113] When the processor 31 in the virtual POS server 30 is requested for accounting data in this way, it determines YES at ACT26 in FIG. 12 and proceeds to ACT63. As ACT63, the processor 31 transmits accounting data similar to ACT58 to the requesting self-checkout machine 50. Customer M1 operates the self-checkout machine 50 to settle the payment for the purchased goods. Note that the operation of the self-checkout machine 50 may be the same as, for example, the operation of an accounting machine in an existing semi-self-checkout system. And if the self-checkout machine 50 completes the settlement, it notifies the virtual POS server 30 of the completion of the settlement.

[0114] As ACT64, the processor 31 waits for a notification of the completion of the settlement from the self-checkout machine 50 which is the destination of the accounting data transmission in ACT63. And if the processor 31 is notified of the completion, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT65. Thus, if the processor 31 is notified of the completion of the settlement while in the waiting state of ACT60 in FIG. 14 or ACT64 in FIG. 12, it proceeds to ACT65. Also, as described above, the processor 31 proceeds from ACT51 or ACT57 in FIG. 15 to ACT65 in FIG. 12.

[0115] As ACT65, the processor 31 executes an end process for ending the transaction that is the target of this information processing. The processor 31, for example, sends transaction data representing the content of the current transaction to the store server 20. The transaction data represents the content of the transaction and the result of the accounting, etc. The transaction data may be the same as, for example, the data stored for the management of completed transactions in an existing POS system. Also, the processor 31, for example, deletes the data records DR4 and DR5 included in the cart management database DB1 and the purchased goods database DB2 for the current transaction. That is, the processor 31 deletes from the cart management database DB1 and the purchased goods database DB2 the data record DR4 in which the terminal code of the cart terminal 10 is set in the field F41 and the data record DR5 in which the same transaction code as the transaction code set in the field F43 of the data record DR4 is set in the field F51. As ACT66, the processor 31 notifies the cart terminal 10 that logging off is permitted. Then, the processor 31 terminates the information processing targeted at the cart terminal 10.

[0116] In the cart terminal 10, when the processor 11a receives a notification from the virtual POS server 30 that logging off is permitted, it determines YES at ACT6 in FIG. 11 and proceeds to ACT10. As ACT10, the processor 11a displays a logoff screen on the touch panel 11e. The logoff screen is a screen that represents a logoff button for the operator to indicate logging off.

[0117] As ACT11, the processor 11a waits for an operation for logging off to be performed. Then, when an operation of the logoff button is performed, for example, the processor 11a determines YES and proceeds to ACT12. As ACT12, the processor 11a executes a logoff process. The logoff process is a process for transitioning to a standby state not being used by the customer M1.

[0118] As ACT13, the processor 11a checks whether the remaining amount of the battery unit 11j has decreased. For example, the processor 11a acquires the remaining amount value measured by the battery unit 11j and compares the remaining amount value with a predetermined threshold value. Then, when the remaining amount value is equal to or less than the threshold value, the processor 11a determines that the remaining amount has decreased. Alternatively, the processor 11a may determine that the remaining amount has decreased when the remaining amount value of the battery unit 11j is less than a predetermined threshold value. The threshold value is assumed to be "35%" as an example. However, the threshold value may be arbitrarily determined by, for example, the creator of the transaction processing program AP1 or the administrator of the virtual POS server 30. The threshold value is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 11c, for example. Then, if the remaining amount of the battery unit 11j has decreased, the processor 11a determines YES and proceeds to ACT14.

[0119] As ACT14, the processor 11a performs a warning operation. This warning operation is an operation for warning the store clerk M2 that the remaining amount of the battery unit 11j is low. The warning operation is, for example, a notification to the store clerk terminal 70. The warning operation is, for example, a display on the touch panel 11e of a predetermined warning screen. The warning operation is, for example, an output from the sound unit 11f of a predetermined voice message or warning sound. The warning operation may perform only one operation or may perform a plurality of operations in parallel.

[0120] In response to the warning operation, the store clerk M2 in charge of the maintenance of the cart C replaces the external battery 16 connected to the cart terminal 10 with another charged external battery 16. If a charged external battery 16 is connected to the cart terminal 10, the power supply unit 11i will operate with the power supplied from the external battery 16, so that the cart terminal 10 can operate stably regardless of the remaining amount of the battery unit 11j. Also, the battery unit 11j is charged by the power supplied from the external battery 16. After the store clerk M2 finishes replacing the external battery 16, the store clerk M2 performs a predetermined release operation, for example, on the touch panel 11e.

[0121] As ACT15, the processor 11a waits for the release operation to be performed. Then, if the release operation is performed as described above, the processor 11a determines YES and returns to the waiting state of ACT1. Note that if the remaining amount of the battery unit 11j is not low, the processor 11a determines NO in ACT13, passes through ACT14 and ACT15, and returns to the waiting state of ACT1.

[0122] As described above, when the electronic settlement for the through checkout remains unfinished, the store system 1 can easily cope with it as described above.

[0123] The following modified implementations are possible for this embodiment. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a modification of the information processing by the processor 31. Note that FIG. 22 shows only the differences from the information processing shown in FIGS. 12 to 15, and the same processes as those shown in FIGS. 12 to 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0124] When the processor 31 determines NO at ACT40 because through-checkout is not permitted, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT71. As ACT71, the processor 31 checks whether the customer M1 is a member of the electronic receipt service. If the customer M1 is not a member of the electronic receipt service, the processor 31 determines NO and proceeds to ACT58. That is, when the customer M1 is not a member of the electronic receipt service, the processor 31 processes in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment except for performing the check at ACT71.

[0125] However, if the customer M1 is a member of the electronic receipt service, the processor 31 determines YES at ACT71 and proceeds to ACT72. As ACT72, the processor 31 instructs the cart terminal 10 to display a transfer screen. The transfer screen is a screen for instructing the customer M1 to transfer accounting data to the self-checkout machine 50. In addition, the transfer screen indicates that if the customer M1 wishes to perform through-checkout, the customer M1 should request confirmation from the store clerk M2.

[0126] The cart terminal 10 displays the transfer screen on the touch panel 11e in response to the above instruction. If the customer M1 decides to perform accounting at the self-checkout machine 50 without performing through-checkout, the customer M1 performs an operation for instructing the transfer of accounting data to the self-checkout machine 50 on the transfer screen. In response to this, the cart terminal 10 notifies the virtual POS server 30 that the transfer has been instructed.

[0127] When the processor 31 is notified that the transfer has been instructed in this way, it determines YES at ACT24 in FIG. 12, NO at ACT27, ACT29 in FIG. 13, and NO at ACT39, ACT42 in FIG. 14 respectively, and further determines NO at ACT61 and proceeds to ACT73. As ACT73, the processor 31 checks whether it is a transfer instruction. Thus, the processor 31 determines YES in the above case and proceeds to ACT58.

[0128] On the other hand, when the customer M1 wants to perform a through checkout, according to the guidance on the transfer screen, the customer requests confirmation from the store clerk M2. In response to this request, the store clerk M2 checks the situation where through checkout cannot be permitted and takes measures to eliminate the situation. For example, when the purchased items include items with restrictions such as age restrictions for the purchaser, the store clerk M2 checks whether the customer M1 meets the restrictions. Also, for example, the store clerk M2 checks that all the items placed in the cart C have been registered as purchased items. And in such a case, the store clerk M2 performs a special operation for the store clerk M2 on the touch panel 11e, for example, and gives an instruction to permit it. In response to this, the cart terminal 10 notifies the virtual POS server 30 that it has been instructed to permit it.

[0129] When the processor 31 is notified that it has been instructed to permit in this way, it determines YES at ACT24 in FIG. 12, NO at ACT27, ACT29 in FIG. 13, and NO at ACT39, ACT42 in FIG. 14 respectively, and further determines NO at ACT61 and ACT73 respectively and proceeds to ACT74. As ACT74, the processor 31 checks whether it has been instructed to permit through checkout. Thus, the processor 31 determines YES in the above case and proceeds to ACT44. That is, the processor 31 proceeds to the process for through checkout.

[0130] In addition, if the store clerk M2 confirms that an item not registered as a purchased item is placed in the cart C, the store clerk M2 guides the customer M1 to register the item as a purchased item, or the store clerk M2 performs an operation to register the item as a purchased item with the consent of the customer M1. As a result, if all items placed in the cart C are registered as purchased items, a situation where through-checkout is allowed may occur. And if the situation where through-checkout is allowed occurs, the customer M1 can start through-checkout.

[0131] If the store clerk M2 confirms that the situation does not allow through-checkout, the store clerk M2 notifies the customer M1 to that effect and guides the customer M1 to check out at the self-checkout machine 50. As a result, although it is necessary to go through the confirmation work by the store clerk M2, if the situation allows through-checkout after going through the confirmation, the customer M1 can use through-checkout.

[0132] In addition to this, the following various modifications can be made in this embodiment. When the processor 31 determines NO in ACT40 or ACT43 in FIG. 14, the processor 31 may instruct the cart terminal 10 to display the scanning screen SC16. And in response to the accounting data being requested based on the code symbol CS61 shown on the scanning screen SC16, the processor 31 may process ACT63 and subsequent steps. And in this case, contrary to the above embodiment, the processor 31 may proceed to ACT58 in response to the button BU2 shown on the registration screen SC11 being operated.

[0133] The information processing shown in FIGS. 12 to 15 may be executed by the processor 11a in the cart terminal 10. In this case, the cart terminal 10 functions alone as a transaction processing device. Also, the information processing shown in FIGS. 12 to 15 may be executed in a shared manner by the processor 11a and the processor 31. Note that the processor 11a does not execute processing for managing a plurality of cart terminals 10, such as ACT20, ACT34, and ACT35 in FIG. 12.

[0134] The functions of the virtual POS server 30 may be provided in the store server 20 or another server. Further, the functions of the virtual POS server 30 may be realized by distributed processing by a plurality of servers.

[0135] It is also possible to use an information terminal such as a smartphone brought into the store by the customer M1 instead of the cart terminal 10.

[0136] At least one of the scanner 12, the reader 13, the camera 14, the beacon receiver 15, and the external battery 16 may be externally attached as an optional device instead of being a component of the cart terminal 10.

[0137] A camera may be built into the tablet computer 11, and the symbol code may be photographed using the camera. In this case, the processor 11a functions as an acquisition means by extracting the product code from the image obtained by the photographing.

[0138] Each function realized by the processor 11a or the processor 31 through information processing can also be realized by hardware that executes information processing not based on a program such as a logic circuit. Further, each of the above functions can also be realized by combining software control with the above hardware such as a logic circuit.

[0139] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, 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] 1... Store system, 2... Communication network, 2a... Access point, 3... Settlement server, 4... Electronic receipt server, 5... Member server, 10... Cart terminal, 11... Tablet computer, 11a... Processor, 11b... Main memory, 11c... Auxiliary storage unit, 11d... Wireless unit, 11e... Touch panel, 11f... Sound unit, 11g... Interface unit, 11h... Transmission path, 11i... Power supply unit, 11j... Battery unit, 12... Scanner, 13... Reader, 14... Camera, 15... Beacon receiver, 16... External battery, 20... Store server, 30... Virtual POS server, 31... Processor, 32... Main memory, 33... Auxiliary storage unit, 34... Communication interface, 35... Transmission path, 40... Attended cash register, 50... Self-service cash register, 60... Beacon transmitter, 70... Store clerk terminal.

Claims

1. A transaction processing system including a mobile terminal having acquisition means for acquiring a product code for identifying a product to be the subject of a transaction, requesting means for requesting an electronic settlement related to the transaction from a settlement device, outputting means for outputting at least first identification data for identifying the electronic settlement case requested for the transaction by the requesting means from another electronic settlement case requested for the settlement device, and for outputting transaction data related to the transaction to be stored in a storage device, detecting means for detecting that it has become unclear whether or not the electronic settlement requested by the requesting means has been completed, instructing means for instructing the mobile terminal to output second identification data for identifying the transaction data stored by the storage device regarding the transaction that is the subject of the unclear electronic settlement in response to the detection by the detecting means of the fact that it has become unclear, A transaction processing system comprising the same.

2. The outputting means includes settlement data for settling the transaction in the transaction data, The transaction processing system according to Claim 1.

3. The mobile terminal further includes a display device, The instructing means instructs the mobile terminal to display on the display device a screen representing a code symbol representing the second identification data, The transaction processing system according to Claim 1.

4. A transaction processing device constituting a transaction processing system together with a mobile terminal having acquisition means for acquiring a product code for identifying a product to be the subject of a transaction, requesting means for requesting an electronic settlement related to the transaction from a settlement device, outputting means for outputting at least first identification data for identifying the electronic settlement case requested for the transaction by the requesting means from another electronic settlement case requested for the settlement device, and for outputting transaction data related to the transaction to be stored in a storage device, detecting means for detecting that it has become unclear whether or not the electronic settlement requested by the requesting means has been completed, instructing means for instructing the mobile terminal to output second identification data for identifying the transaction data stored by the storage device regarding the transaction that is the subject of the unclear electronic settlement in response to the detection by the detecting means of the fact that it has become unclear, A transaction processing device comprising the same.

5. A computer provided in a transaction processing apparatus that constitutes a transaction processing system together with a mobile terminal, the computer including acquisition means for acquiring a product code for identifying a product to be the subject of a transaction. Request means for requesting an electronic settlement related to the transaction to a settlement apparatus. Output means for outputting, to store in a storage device, at least first identification data for identifying a case of the electronic settlement requested for the transaction by the request means from a case of another electronic settlement requested for the settlement apparatus, and transaction data related to the transaction. Detection means for detecting that it has become unclear whether or not the electronic settlement requested by the request means has been completed. Instruction means for instructing the mobile terminal to output second identification data for identifying the transaction data stored by the storage device regarding the transaction that is the subject of the electronic settlement that has become unclear, in response to the detection by the detection means of the fact that it has become unclear. An information processing program for causing the above to function.

Images