Commodity sales data processor and program

Abstract

To provide a commodity sales data processor and a program capable of efficiently executing the tax-free procedure.SOLUTION: A commodity sales data processor comprises: tax-free means for performing tax-free processing for tax exemption from a sum of commodities being tax-free objects; read means for reading information corresponding to a part or all of subjects to be described determined by law of tax-free system from a passport; display means for displaying the information read by the read means on a display; confirmation acceptance means for accepting confirmation of the information displayed on the display; and print means for, when the tax-free processing is performed, printing a document containing specifications of commodities subjected to the tax-free processing and information that the confirmation acceptance means accepted confirmation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a product sales data processing apparatus and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, when an operator who manages an export goods sales place (duty-free store) sells goods to non-residents such as foreign travelers, there is a so-called duty-free system that exempts consumption tax on the goods.

[0003] The procedures by foreign travelers when using such a duty-free system include procedures such as presenting a passport and filling in the prepared documents, which have been complicated.

[0004] By the way, heretofore, document formats have been defined by laws, but hereafter, it has been stipulated that any document in which matters defined by laws are described may be used. Also, when a copy of a receipt (such as a specification in which all or part of the matters to be described are described) to be delivered to a purchaser is pasted on a document and a split mark is made between the receipt and the document, the description of the matters described in the receipt on the document may also be omitted.

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 product sales data processing apparatus and a program capable of efficiently performing procedures related to duty-free.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A product sales data processing device according to an embodiment includes a tax exemption means, a reading means, a display means, a confirmation receiving means, and a printing means. The tax exemption means performs a tax exemption process that exempts tax from the price of products eligible for tax exemption. The reading means reads information from the passport that corresponds to some or all of the information that must be filled out as stipulated by laws and regulations related to the tax exemption system. The display means displays the information read by the reading means on a display. The confirmation receiving means receives confirmation of the information displayed on the display. When the tax exemption process is performed, the printing means prints a document including details of the products subject to the tax exemption process and the information confirmed by the confirmation receiving means. Furthermore, the display means displays an indicator on the display indicating that the transaction is tax-free, provided that the confirmation receiving means receives the confirmation. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a POS system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the store server. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the product master file. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the tax-free category file. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the tax exemption setting value file. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the transaction history. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the POS terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the POS terminal. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the general flow of the normal tax exemption process. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the product registration screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the guide screen. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a product registration screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an error screen. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an error screen. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a product registration screen. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a warning screen. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase pledge form. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase record slip. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a receipt. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a product name list. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a flowchart schematically showing the flow of duty-free re-aggregation processing. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a duty-free re-aggregation screen. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a duty-free re-aggregation screen. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a refund receipt.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In the present embodiment, a POS (Point Of Sales) system used in an export goods sales place (duty-free store) that sells goods for daily use to non-residents such as foreign travelers in a certain manner will be described. The present embodiment is an example applied to a POS terminal installed in a duty-free store as a product sales data processing device.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a POS system 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the POS system 1 includes a plurality of (two in the figure) POS terminals 2 and a store server 4 which is an information processing device that connects these POS terminals 2 via a network 3 such as a LAN (Local Area Network) for centralized management.

[0010] The store server 4 is responsible for controlling the entire POS system 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the store server 4. The store server 4 includes a control unit 41 having a computer configuration composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like.

[0011] In the control unit 41, a communication I / F (interface) 43 and an I / O device control unit 44 are connected by a bus 42. The store server 4 communicates online with a plurality of POS terminals 2 via the communication I / F 43 and the network 3 (see FIG. 1). Further, a keyboard 45, a display 46, a printer 47, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 48 are connected to the control unit 41 via the bus 42 and the I / O device control unit 44. The HDD 48 stores various control programs for operating the CPU of the control unit 41. The HDD 48 also stores a product master file F1, a duty-free classification file F2, and a duty-free setting value file F3. The HDD 48 also holds a transaction history DB1 as a database for accumulating information on transactions registered for sale at the POS terminals 2.

[0012] Note that the program executed by the store server 4 of this embodiment may be configured to be provided by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium in an installable format or an executable format. Such recording media include CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), and the like.

[0013] Furthermore, the program executed by the store server 4 of the present embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by allowing it to be downloaded via the network. Also, the program executed by the store server 4 of the present embodiment may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0014] Next, the product master file F1 and the product classification (classification) set in the product master file F1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the product master file F1. As shown in FIG. 3, in the product master file F1, product information such as a product name, the price (unit price) of the product, classification codes (classification 1 code, classification 2 code), duty-free classification code, and dangerous goods classification code is set in association with the product code (product identification information) of each product subject to sales registration. The dangerous goods classification code is assigned to products that require attention in handling, such as sprays whose carriage on aircraft is prohibited.

[0015] Products are classified by a plurality of classification codes, and those multiple classifications are hierarchically constructed.

[0016] That is, as shown in FIG. 3, products are classified into a plurality by classification 1 (upper classification), which is a rough classification. Also, each classification 1 is further classified in more detail by classification 2 (lower classification), which is a finer classification. That is, the upper classification 1 is classified into a plurality by classification 2, which is lower than classification 1, and includes at least one of the lower classifications 2.

[0017] Note that, in terms of being hierarchically constructed, the product code attached to each product can be regarded as a classification lower than classification 2. The product code can be regarded as the most detailed classification, that is, the lowest classification.

[0018] Next, the duty-free classification file F2 will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the duty-free classification file F2. As shown in FIG. 4, in the duty-free classification file F2, a duty-free classification name is set in association with the duty-free classification code. The duty-free classification names are "consumables", "general goods", and "not subject to duty-free". "Consumables" are duty-free items for which the tax on goods sold to non-residents such as foreign travelers is exempted, and include items such as foodstuffs, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. "General goods" are also duty-free items and are items for ordinary daily use other than consumables.

[0019] Next, the duty-free setting value file F3 will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the duty-free setting value file F3. As shown in FIG. 5, in the duty-free setting value file F3, a set value is set in association with the duty-free classification code. The set value serves as a guideline for sales registration as duty-free in each category. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the set value for consumables with the duty-free classification code "01" is from 5,000 yen to 500,000 yen. Also, the set value for general goods (items for ordinary daily use other than consumables) with the duty-free classification code "02" is an amount exceeding 10,000 yen.

[0020] Next, the transaction history DB1 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the transaction history DB1. As shown in FIG. 6, in the transaction history DB1, the sales data of transactions processed at each of the POS terminals 2 are stored as transaction histories. The transaction history includes a transaction number for identifying each transaction, the transaction date and time when the transaction was made, and a register number for identifying the POS terminal 2 where the transaction was made. Also, the transaction history includes the product code, unit price, quantity, etc. of each product for which sales registration was made. Further, in the transaction history DB1, a flag is set in association with the transaction number. The flag serves as a guideline when determining whether or not the transaction is a target of the duty-free process described later. In the example shown in FIG. 6, a transaction with a flag of "0" means that it is not a target of the duty-free process, and a transaction with a flag of "1" means that it is a target of the duty-free process.

[0021] By following the control program, the control unit 41 of the store server 4 according to the present embodiment distributes the product master file F1, the duty-free classification file F2, and the duty-free setting value file F3 to the POS terminal 2 at a predetermined timing.

[0022] Next, the POS terminal 2 will be described. The POS terminal 2 is assigned a unique cash register number and is placed at the checkout location. The POS terminal 2 is a terminal for an operator (cashier) to perform sales registration processing.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the POS terminal 2. As shown in FIG. 7, the POS terminal 2 is connected to a keyboard 21, a display 22 which is a liquid crystal display device provided with a touch panel on its display surface, a printer 23, a card reader / writer (R / W) 24, a code scanner 25 for optically reading barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc. attached to products, a HDD 26 which is a storage device, a passport reader 27, and the like.

[0024] The keyboard 21 has an appearance structure in which various keys are arranged in blocks. The various keys are, for example, numeric keys for inputting product codes, amounts, etc., a subtotal key for declaring the calculation of the total sales amount, a deposit / cash key for declaring the closing with cash in sales processing, PLU keys for specifying various products, an enter key for confirming the numeric input by the numeric keys, a clear key, and the like. Further, the keyboard 21 includes a duty-free declaration key K1, a product name list output key K2, and a duty-free recalculation key K3. The duty-free declaration key K1 is an operator for declaring a duty-free transaction. The product name list output key K2 is an operator for instructing the output of a list (product name list) of products subject to duty-free. The duty-free recalculation key K3 is an operator for declaring a duty-free recalculation to be described later.

[0025] The passport reader 27 is a reader device that reads the information held by a passport (travel document). In the present embodiment, the passport reader 27 has an optical character recognition (OCR) function for optically reading the characters described in the passport.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 7, the POS terminal 2 has a microcomputer 30. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31 that executes various arithmetic processes and controls each part, a ROM 32 that fixedly stores and preserves fixed data, and a RAM 33 that stores variable data in a rewritable manner and is used as a work area, which are connected via a bus line 34. The microcomputer 30 constitutes an information processing unit that executes information processing.

[0027] In the RAM 33, a duty-free target amount table T for aggregating the duty-free target amounts described later is formed.

[0028] Also, the aforementioned keyboard 21, display 22, printer 23, card reader / writer 24, code scanner 25, HDD 26, and passport reader 27 are connected to the microcomputer 30 via the bus line 34. The keyboard 21, display 22, printer 23, card reader / writer 24, code scanner 25, HDD 26, and passport reader 27 are operationally controlled by the microcomputer 30.

[0029] Furthermore, the POS terminal 2 includes a communication interface (I / F) 28 for performing data communication with a store server 4, which is a higher-level device, via a network 3 provided in the store. This communication interface 28 is also connected to the bus line 34.

[0030] Incidentally, the HDD 26 provided in the POS terminal 2 stores an operating system, various computer programs, and various data files. Examples of the data files include a product master file F1, a duty-free classification file F2, and a duty-free setting value file F3 distributed from the store server 4.

[0031] The operating system and computer programs executed on the POS terminal 2 of the present embodiment are provided by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) in an installable or executable file format.

[0032] Alternatively, the operating system and computer programs executed on the POS terminal 2 of the present embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Further, the operating system and computer programs executed on the POS terminal 2 of the present embodiment may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0033] Alternatively, the operating system and computer programs executed on the POS terminal 2 of the present embodiment may be configured to be provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like.

[0034] The processing executed by the microcomputer 30 of the POS terminal 2 according to the present embodiment (hereinafter referred to as the POS terminal 2) in accordance with a computer program will be described.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the POS terminal 2. As shown in FIG. 8, the computer program executed on the POS terminal 2 according to the present embodiment has a module configuration including the following respective parts (input means 301, sales registration means 302, duty-free declaration means 303, determination means 304, reading means 305, display means 306, addition means 307, reference amount determination means 308, duty-free means 309, printing means 310). As actual hardware, the CPU 31 reads the computer program from the HDD 26 and executes it, so that the above respective parts are generated on the RAM 33.

[0036] The input means 301 inputs the product code and the sales quantity. The sales registration means 302 executes a sales registration process for calculating the registered amount of the product to be sold based on the unit price and the sales quantity obtained by searching the product master file F1 according to the product code input by the input means 301.

[0037] The tax exemption declaration means 303 declares a tax-exempt transaction in response to the operation of the tax exemption declaration key K1 or the tax exemption recalculation key K3. When there is a declaration of a tax-exempt transaction by the tax exemption declaration means 303, the determination means 304 determines whether the product to be sold is a tax-exempt product by referring to the tax exemption classification in the product master file F1. Specifically, the determination means 304 determines whether the product for which the sales registration process has been executed by the sales registration means 302 before the tax exemption declaration and the product for which the product code has been input after the declaration are tax-exempt products. In addition, it is determined whether the products included in the transaction history are tax-exempt products.

[0038] When there is a declaration of a tax-exempt transaction by the tax exemption declaration means 303, the reading means 305 reads a predetermined character string from the character string described in the passport in cooperation with the passport reader 27. Here, the character string to be read is information corresponding to part or all of the matters (matters to be described) defined by the laws and regulations regarding the tax exemption system. Examples of such character strings include the passport number, name, nationality, date of birth, etc. Specifically, the reading means 305 detects the item name of the matters to be described from the character string (information) acquired by the passport reader 27, and reads the character strings described in association with this item name respectively. When the character string corresponding to the matters to be described is described in the passport in a coded (numerical) state, the reading means 305 shall decode the character string from the read code.

[0039] The display means 306 controls the display device 22 to display various information (screens) on the display device 22. For example, the display means 306 displays an operation screen related to sales registration processing. Furthermore, when the reading means 305 reads a predetermined character string from the passport, the display means 306 displays a confirmation screen for the operator to confirm the character string. Furthermore, when the duty-free product is classified as a dangerous item, the display means 306 displays a warning.

[0040] When the determination means 304 determines that the product is eligible for tax exemption, the addition means 307 adds the registered amount of the product as the tax exemption amount. The standard amount determination means 308 determines whether the tax exemption amount added by the addition means 307 meets a predetermined standard amount. When the standard amount determination means 308 determines that the standard amount is met, the tax exemption means 309 performs tax exemption processing to exempt the tax on the tax exemption amount.

[0041] The printing means 310 controls the printer 23 to print various information. For example, the printing means 310 prints a document (receipt) including details of the products related to the sales registration process and including the transaction number of the transaction. Furthermore, when the tax exemption process is executed by the tax exemption means 309, the printing means 310 prints a document including details of the products related to the tax exemption process and including all or part of the information that must be included as stipulated by laws and regulations related to the tax exemption system. Furthermore, when the tax exemption process is executed by the tax exemption means 309, the printing means 310 accepts operation of the product name list output key K2 and prints a product name list including the product names and quantities of the products subject to tax.

[0042] The POS terminal 2 according to this embodiment generally executes the following process.

[0043] The POS terminal 2 (input means 301) reads the product code attached to each product in the form of a barcode, two-dimensional code, etc. by the code scanner 25. Then, the POS terminal 2 (sales registration means 302) searches the product master file F1 according to the read product code, reads out the product information corresponding to the relevant product code, and obtains the unit price of the product, etc. Further, the POS terminal 2 (sales registration means 302) executes a sales registration process for calculating the total amount of these products based on the unit price and the number of sales of the products to be purchased.

[0044] After that, when the POS terminal 2 (sales registration means 302) finishes the sales registration process in response to an operation such as the deposit / cash key, it transmits the transaction details of the transaction to the store server 4 as a transaction history. When the store server 4 receives the transaction history transmitted from the POS terminal 2, it stores it in the transaction history DB1. Also, when the POS terminal 2 (printing means 310) finishes the sales registration process in response to an operation such as the deposit / cash key, it executes a printing process for printing the transaction details of the transaction.

[0045] The operation of the POS terminal 2 will be described below.

[0046] [Normal tax exemption process] First, the operation when the tax exemption declaration key K1 is operated during the above-described sales registration process will be described as the normal tax exemption process.

[0047] Fig. 9 is a flowchart schematically showing the flow of the normal tax exemption process. It is assumed that the product registration screen G1 in Fig. 10 related to the sales registration process is displayed on the display 22 as a precondition for this process.

[0048] First, the POS terminal 2 (duty-free declaration means 303) waits for an operation of the duty-free declaration key K1 during the sales registration process (step S1; No). When the POS terminal 2 (duty-free declaration means 303) receives an operation of the duty-free declaration key K1 (step S1; Yes), it determines that a duty-free transaction has been declared. Next, the POS terminal 2 (reading means 305) operates the passport reader 27 and waits until a predetermined character string is read from the passport (step S2; No). Also, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) switches the display screen of the display 22 from the product registration screen G1 (Fig. 10) to the guide screen G2 (Fig. 11) until a predetermined character string is read from the passport.

[0049] Here, Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the guide screen G2. As shown in Fig. 11, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) causes the guide screen G2 prompting the reading of the passport to be displayed on the display 22. The operator of the POS terminal 2 opens the page on which the matters related to the duty-free system are described in the passport presented by the customer (non-resident) and holds the page in front of the passport reader 27. In response to this operation, the POS terminal 2 (reading means 305) reads a predetermined character string from the passport (step S2; Yes).

[0050] Subsequently, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) switches the display screen of the display 22 to the confirmation screen G3 (Fig. 12) in order to confirm the character string read in step S2 (step S3).

[0051] As shown in Fig. 12, on the confirmation screen G3, the character string read in step S2 is displayed for each item (matter). Fig. 12 shows an example of the case where character strings of items of the passport number, name, nationality, and date of birth are read among the items described in the passport.

[0052] Here, a delete button B1 is provided in association with each item on the confirmation screen G3. When the POS terminal 2 receives an operation of this delete button B1 (step S4; Yes), it deletes the read string for the corresponding item (step S5) and returns to step S3. For example, if there is an error in the string of any one of the items read in step S2, the incorrect string can be deleted by operating the delete button B1. Note that the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays the confirmation screen G3 with the string of the item deleted in step S5 set to blank.

[0053] Further, on the confirmation screen G3, an OK button B2, a reread button B3, and a cancel button B4 corresponding to the confirmation acceptance means of the present embodiment are displayed. When the POS terminal 2 receives an operation of the reread button B3 (step S4; No → step S6; Yes), it returns the process to step S2 to reread the string from the passport. Note that the previously read string shall be deleted with the operation of the reread button B3.

[0054] Also, when the POS terminal 2 receives an operation of the cancel button B4 (step S4; No → step S6; No → step S7; Yes), it deletes all the read strings (step S8) and returns to the sales registration process. Note that with the operation of the cancel button B4, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) shall return the display screen of the display 22 from the confirmation screen G3 to the product registration screen G1.

[0055] Also, when the POS terminal 2 receives an operation of the OK button B2 (step S4; No → step S6; No → step S7; No → step S9; Yes), it proceeds to step S10 while holding the read string. Note that the POS terminal 2 shall wait until any button is operated on the confirmation screen G3 (step S4; No → step S6; No → step S7; No → step S9; No).

[0056] In step S10, the POS terminal 2 switches the display screen of the display 22 to the product registration screen G4 (FIG. 13) (step S10), and executes the tax exemption process (step S11).

[0057] As shown in Fig. 13, a tax exemption indicator I is displayed on the product registration screen G4 after the confirmation screen G3 is displayed (tax exemption declaration). By displaying the tax exemption indicator I on the product registration screen G4 in this way, the POS terminal 2 notifies the operator that the transaction is a tax exemption declaration. Note that the registered products displayed on the product registration screen G4 after nationality selection (after tax exemption declaration) remain the same as they were before the tax exemption declaration.

[0058] Here, the tax exemption process in step S11 will be described.

[0059] First, the POS terminal 2 (determination means 304) determines which products are eligible for tax exemption by referencing the tax exemption category code in the product master file F1 for products that have already been registered. If any products are eligible for tax exemption, the POS terminal 2 (addition means 307) adds the tax exemption amount for each registered product group (general goods group / consumable goods group) eligible for tax exemption to the tax exemption amount table T.

[0060] The tax-exempt items will be handled according to the tax type as follows:

[0061] If the registered product eligible for tax exemption includes tax, the POS terminal 2 adds the registered amount excluding tax as the tax exemption amount to the tax exemption amount table T. More specifically, for a tax-inclusive product, the POS terminal 2 determines the difference between the registered amount before tax exemption and the registered amount after tax exemption as the tax exemption amount. · Unit price before tax exemption: 1,080 yen - Unit price after tax exemption: 1,000 yen → Tax exemption amount: 80 yen

[0062] If the registered product eligible for tax exemption is priced exclusive of tax, the POS terminal 2 adds the registered amount as the tax exemption amount to the tax exemption amount table T. More specifically, for a tax-exempt product, the POS terminal 2 sets the tax exemption amount to the registered amount exclusive of tax.

[0063] If the registered product eligible for tax exemption is not subject to tax, the POS terminal 2 does not add the registered amount to the tax exemption amount table T as the tax exemption amount.

[0064] Next, the POS terminal 2 (reference amount determination means 308) determines whether the tax exemption amount in the tax exemption amount table T meets the set value (reference amount) in the tax exemption set value file F3. In the tax exemption set value file F3 of this embodiment, the set value for food, beverages, medicines, cosmetics, and other consumables is 5,000 to 500,000 yen. In addition, the set value for general goods (goods used in everyday life other than consumables) is an amount exceeding 10,000 yen.

[0065] If the POS terminal 2 determines that the tax-exempt amount for consumables meets the set value (5,000 yen to 500,000 yen), it performs tax exemption processing to exempt the tax on the tax-exempt amount. Also, if the POS terminal 2 (tax exemption means 309) determines that the tax-exempt amount for general goods (goods used in everyday life other than consumables) meets the set value (amount exceeding 10,000 yen), it performs tax exemption processing to exempt the tax on the tax-exempt amount.

[0066] If the tax exemption amount for the consumable item in the tax exemption amount table T exceeds the upper limit of the set value (500,000 yen), the POS terminal 2 displays an error on the display 22.

[0067] 14 and 15 are diagrams showing examples of error screens. As shown in FIG. 14, when declaring tax exemption by operating the tax exemption declaration key K1, the POS terminal 2 displays an error screen G5 stating, "The tax exemption upper limit has been exceeded. Please cancel the product. The amount exceeded is XX,XXX yen." Also, as shown in FIG. 15, during the sales registration process after declaring tax exemption by operating the tax exemption declaration key K1, the POS terminal 2 displays an error screen G6 stating, "The tax exemption upper limit has been exceeded. This product cannot be registered. The amount exceeded is XX,XXX yen." Note that the POS terminal 2 erases the error screen when the clear key on the keyboard 21 is operated.

[0068] After the execution of the tax exemption process (step S11), the POS terminal 2 redisplay the product registration screen (step S12). Here, FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the product registration screen G7 after redisplay. As shown in FIG. 16, for the product registration screen G7 after redisplay, the tax amount is set to "0 yen" due to the exemption of tax by the tax exemption process. Also, as shown in FIG. 16, for the product registration screen G7 after redisplay, the total display amount is set to the amount after the tax exemption process. Further, for the product registration screen G7 after redisplay, the character "exempt" is displayed for the tax-exempt products, that is, the products subjected to the tax exemption process.

[0069] In addition, when the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) refers to the product master file F1 and there is a dangerous goods category product among the tax-exempt products (step S13; Yes), a warning screen is pop-up displayed on the display 22 (step S14). Here, FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the warning screen G8. As shown in FIG. 17, the POS terminal 2 displays, for example, "Sprays are prohibited from being carried onto airplanes." as the warning screen G8. Note that when an operation of the clear key of the keyboard 21 is performed, the POS terminal 2 erases the warning screen G8.

[0070] When there is an operation of the tax exemption declaration key K1 of the keyboard 21 during the sales registration process as described above, for the registered products sold in the subsequent sales registration process, the processes after the tax exemption process in step S11 are also executed.

[0071] Thereafter, when the POS terminal 2 receives an operation of the deposit / cash key in the sales registration process, it generates sales data indicating the transaction details and stores it in the transaction history DB1 as a transaction history by transmitting it to the store server 4. Also, the POS terminal 2 (printing means 310) executes a printing process. Note that when the tax exemption process is executed in the sales registration process, the POS terminal 2 sets the value of the flag of the transaction history to be transmitted to "1" indicating that the tax exemption process has been completed. Also, when the tax exemption process is not executed in the sales registration process, the POS terminal 2 sets the value of the flag of the transaction history (sales data) to "0" indicating that the tax exemption process has not been executed.

[0072] In the printing process of this embodiment, in the case of a transaction for which duty-free processing is performed, for example, one purchase agreement, two purchase record sheets, and one receipt are printed. Also, the POS terminal 2 also executes journal printing.

[0073] First, the purchase agreement will be described. Here, FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the purchase agreement R1. The purchase agreement R1 is a document that describes the fact of the purchase of duty-free items. The purchase agreement R1 is attached to a document (purchaser's agreement) as a store copy and submitted to the operator who manages the duty-free store.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 18, the purchase agreement R1 includes the name or title a of the operator who manages the duty-free store, the signature of the tax authority in charge b, the store location c of the duty-free store, the transaction date d, the transaction number e, the cash register number f, the details of the products (product name g, quantity and price h for each product name), the total amount i of all items, the total amount j of general items and consumables respectively, and the duty-free amount k.

[0075] Also, the purchase agreement R1 has columns for printing the character strings of each item confirmed on the confirmation screen G3. Specifically, on the purchase agreement R1, the character strings confirmed on the confirmation screen G3 for the following items are printed. · Passport number... l · Nationality of the purchaser... m · Name of the purchaser... n · Date of birth of the purchaser... o

[0076] Note that for the items (character strings) deleted by operating the delete button B1 on the confirmation screen G3, only the item name is printed and directly entered on the document (purchase agreement). Also, the layout of the purchase agreement R1 is not limited to the example in FIG. 18. For example, a statement promising to export after purchase (in the case of consumables, a statement promising to export within 30 days from the date of purchase), a signature column for the purchaser, etc. may be printed.

[0077] Next, the purchase record ticket will be explained. Here, Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase record ticket R2. The purchase record ticket R2 is a document that records the purchase of duty-free goods. Two copies of the purchase record ticket R2 shown in Fig. 19 are printed, one to be attached to the document (purchase record ticket) and one to be kept as a copy at the store. The attached purchase record ticket R2 is affixed to the document (purchase record ticket). This document (purchase record ticket) is affixed to the passport and stamped.

[0078] As shown in Figure 19, purchase record slip R2 includes the name or title of the business operator of the duty-free shop a, the name of the tax authority b, the location of the duty-free shop c, the transaction date d, the transaction number e, the register number f, product details (item name g, quantity and price for each item h), the total price of all items i, the total price of general goods and consumables j, and the tax-free amount k.

[0079] The purchase record slip R2 also has a field for printing the text of each item confirmed on the confirmation screen G3. Specifically, the text of the following items confirmed on the confirmation screen G3 is printed on the purchase record slip R2: Passport number... · Nationality of the purchaser …m ·Purchaser's name …n Purchaser's date of birth...

[0080] For items (character strings) deleted by pressing the Delete button B1 on the confirmation screen G3, only the item name is printed and the item is entered directly on the document (purchase record slip), just like the purchase pledge R1. The layout of the purchase record slip R2 is not limited to the example in Figure 19.

[0081] Next, the receipt will be described. Here, Fig. 20 shows an example of a receipt R3. The receipt R3 is given to the purchaser after the transaction.

[0082] As shown in Figure 20, receipt R3 includes the name or title of the business operator running the duty-free shop a, the transaction date d, the transaction number e, the register number f, product details (product name g, quantity and price for each product name h), and the total price of all items i. As shown in Figure 20, in the case of a product that is already eligible for tax exemption, "Exempt" p is printed as the tax. Also, as shown in Figure 20, in the case of a tax-exempt transaction, the tax exemption message "A tax-exempt transaction has been made." q is printed on receipt R3.

[0083] The POS terminal 2 of this embodiment executes journal printing corresponding to the purchase record slip R2 and receipt R3. At this time, the POS terminal 2 prints all or part of the text strings of the items confirmed on the confirmation screen G3 in the journal corresponding to the receipt R3.

[0084] In this way, the POS terminal 2 reads a predetermined character string from the passport using the passport reader 27, and displays the read character string on the confirmation screen G3 for confirmation by the operator. After confirmation by the operator, the POS terminal 2 prints the character string displayed on the confirmation screen G3 on a document such as a purchase pledge. As a result, the POS terminal 2 of this embodiment eliminates the need for complicated procedures such as filling out a purchaser pledge or purchase record slip for each product purchase, allowing for efficient tax exemption procedures.

[0085] Furthermore, the POS terminal 2 automatically performs tax exemption processing when the tax exemption threshold amount (consumables: 5,000 yen, general goods: 10,000 yen) is exceeded for each tax exemption category unit (consumables, general goods). As a result, the POS terminal 2 of this embodiment eliminates the need for operator-determined tax exemption registration operations, and can execute product sales registration processing in response to revisions to the tax exemption system.

[0086] In addition, when the POS terminal 2 (printing means 310) receives an operation of the product name list output key K2, it executes a printing process (list printing process) for outputting a product name list of tax-exempt products. Here, the timing of receiving the operation of the product name list output key K2 is not particularly limited. For example, when the operation of the product name list output key K2 is received during the sales registration process, the POS terminal 2 (printing means 310) executes the list printing process together with the above-described printing process. Also, when the operation of the product name list output key K2 is received outside the sales registration process, the POS terminal 2 (printing means 310) causes the transaction number or the like of the transaction to be the target of the list printing process to be input, and then executes the list printing process.

[0087] In the list printing process of the present embodiment, one product name list is printed. Here, FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the product name list R4. The product name list R4 is a document listing the products subject to the tax exemption process. The product name list R4 is attached to a bag or box that packages the products subject to the tax exemption process.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 21, the product name list R4 includes the name or title a of the business operator who operates the duty-free store, the product name g of the product subject to the tax exemption process, and the quantity and price h for each product name. Note that, among the products subject to the tax exemption process, only consumables may be printed on the product name list R4. In this case, the determination as to whether the product is a consumable is made based on the tax exemption classification code in the product master file F1 or the tax exemption classification file F2. Also, when the POS terminal 2 separately includes a label printer, the POS terminal 2 (printing means 310) may print the product name list R4 using the label printer.

[0089] Thus, according to the POS terminal 2, a product name list of tax-exempt products can be output in response to an operation of the product name list output key K2. Thereby, according to the POS terminal 2 of the present embodiment, when it is stipulated by law that the product name is to be indicated on the packaging of the tax-exempt product, the product name list can be easily issued, so that the procedures related to tax exemption can be efficiently performed.

[0090] [Tax exemption recounting process] Next, the operation when the tax exemption recount key K3 is operated will be described as a tax exemption recount process.

[0091] FIG. 22 is a flowchart outlining the flow of the tax-exemption recounting process. First, the POS terminal 2 (tax-exemption declaration means 303) waits for the operation of the tax-exemption recounting key K3 when the sales registration process is not being executed (step S21; No). When the POS terminal 2 (tax-exemption declaration means 303) receives the operation of the tax-exemption recounting key K3 (step S21; Yes), it determines that a tax-exempt transaction has been declared. Next, the POS terminal 2 reads character strings corresponding to the written items from the passport by performing the processes of steps S22 to S29. The processes of steps S22 to S29 are the same as the processes of steps S2 to S9 described above, and therefore their explanation will be omitted. Note that if the cancel button B4 is operated on the confirmation screen G3 (step S27; Yes), the POS terminal 2 deletes all character strings read from the passport (step S28) and then terminates this process.

[0092] In the following step S30, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays the tax exemption recount screen G9 on the display 22 (step S30).

[0093] 23 and 24 are diagrams showing examples of the tax exemption recount screen. As shown in Fig. 23, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays on the display 22 the tax exemption recount screen G9 including a message prompting the user to specify the transaction to be processed.

[0094] The POS terminal 2 waits in the background of the duty-free re-aggregation screen G9 until a transaction (transaction number) to be processed is specified (step S31; No → step S35; No). Here, the method of specifying the transaction is not particularly limited. For example, the POS terminal 2 may receive the specification of the transaction by reading the transaction number from a receipt R3 or the like via a code scanner 25, a passport reader 27, or the like. Further, the POS terminal 2 may receive the specification of the transaction based on the transaction number input via the keyboard 21.

[0095] When the POS terminal 2 receives the specification of the transaction number (step S31; Yes), it reads out the transaction history corresponding to the transaction number from the transaction history DB1 of the store server 4 (step S32). Next, the POS terminal 2 determines whether or not the conditions for applying duty-free are satisfied based on the transaction history read from the transaction history DB1 (step S33).

[0096] In the condition determination of step S33, for example, the following conditions are determined. The first condition is that the flag of the transaction history read from the transaction history DB1 is "0". The second condition is that the transaction history includes duty-free target products. The third condition is that it is the same transaction date as the transaction date of the previously read transaction history. The fourth condition is that the total amount of duty-free target products (duty-free target amount) included in all the specified transactions satisfies the set value of the duty-free setting value file F3.

[0097] Subsequently, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) redisplay the tax-free recalculation screen with the content of the transaction history added based on the transaction history read in step S32 (step S34). For example, when reading the transaction history of transaction number "0422", the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) adds and displays the transaction content in area A1 of the tax-free recalculation screen G9 shown in FIG. 23. Also, each time the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) reads a new transaction history, it adds and displays the transaction content in area A1. As a result, as shown in FIG. 24, a tax-free recalculation screen G10 with the transaction history list-displayed is displayed in area A1. In area A1, the transaction date and time (date, time), cash register number, transaction number, and tax-free target amount (transaction amount) are configured to be displayed as the transaction content.

[0098] Also, for the transaction history determined not to meet the conditions in the condition determination of step S33, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays a message or the like indicating that. For example, for the transaction history that does not meet the first condition, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays a message indicating that it has already been tax-free and does not execute the display of the transaction content. Also, for the transaction history that does not meet the second condition, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays a message indicating that it is not subject to tax and does not execute the display of the transaction content. Also, for the transaction history that does not meet the third condition, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays a message indicating that it is different from the transaction date of other transaction histories or performs highlighting by color-coding or the like. Also, for the transaction history that does not meet the fourth condition, the POS terminal 2 (display means 306) displays a message indicating that the tax-free target amount is outside the set value range or performs highlighting by color-coding or the like.

[0099] It is assumed that the transactions displayed on the tax-free recalculation screen can be excluded (deleted) from the processing target by an operation via the keyboard 21 or the touch panel. Also, by selecting the transactions displayed on the tax-free recalculation screen, it may be configured to list-display the tax-free target products included in the transactions.

[0100] Subsequently, the POS terminal 2 determines whether to end the transaction specification (step S35). Here, when a new transaction number is specified (step S35; No → step S31; Yes), the POS terminal 2 proceeds to step S32. Also, when the POS terminal 2 receives an operation instructing confirmation from a keyboard or the like, it ends the transaction specification (step S35; Yes) and proceeds to step S36.

[0101] In step S36, the POS terminal 2 performs tax exemption processing on the tax-exempt target products of each transaction displayed on the tax exemption re-totalization screen (step S36). The amount exempted from tax by this tax exemption processing is refunded to the corresponding customer (non-resident).

[0102] Note that since the tax exemption processing in step S36 is the same as the tax exemption processing in step S11 described above, the description is omitted. Also, the tax exemption processing in step S36 may be configured to suppress execution until all the conditions in step S33 are satisfied. Further, the POS terminal 2 may be configured to perform the processing of steps S13 and S14 described above after the tax exemption processing in step S36.

[0103] Thereafter, the POS terminal 2 generates sales data indicating the transaction details of this processing and transmits it to the store server 4, thereby storing it in the transaction history DB1 as a transaction history. Note that the POS terminal 2 sets the value of the flag of the transaction history to be transmitted to "1" indicating that tax exemption processing has been completed. Also, the POS terminal 2 sets the value of the flag of the transaction history of the transaction subject to tax exemption in this processing to "1" indicating that tax exemption processing has been completed. Further, the POS terminal 2 (printing means 310) performs printing processing.

[0104] In the printing processing after the tax exemption re-totalization processing, for example, one purchase pledge form, two purchase record slips, one receipt, and one refund receipt are printed. Also, the POS terminal 2 performs journal printing.

[0105] Here, the refund receipt will be described. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of the refund receipt R5. The refund receipt R5 is a document that describes the transactions subject to the duty-free aggregation process and the refunded amount (duty-free amount). The refund receipt R5 is given to a non-resident customer.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 25, the refund receipt R5 includes the name or title a of the operator who manages the duty-free store, the transaction date d on which the duty-free re-aggregation process was performed, the transaction number e, and the cash register number f. The refund receipt R5 also includes the transaction number r, the cash register number s, and the refund amount t of each transaction subject to the duty-free re-aggregation process. Also, as shown in FIG. 25, a message "Duty-free re-aggregation has been performed." u indicating that the duty-free re-aggregation has been performed is printed on the refund receipt R5.

[0107] As described above, according to the POS terminal 2 of the present embodiment, for one or a plurality of transactions designated as processing targets, the duty-free processing of the duty-free target products included in the transactions can be performed at once, so that the procedures related to duty-free can be efficiently performed.

[0108] As described above, some embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, 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.

[0109] For example, in the above embodiment, the information held by the passport is read as a character string by using the optical character recognition function of the passport reader 27, but the reading method is not limited to this. Specifically, when a storage medium such as an IC tag is embedded in the passport, an RFID reader may be used as the passport reader 27 to read the information corresponding to the described items from the storage medium.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0110] 2 Commodity Sales Data Processing Device 301 Input means 302 Sales registration means 303 Tax exemption declaration means 304 Judgment means 305 Reading means 306 Display means 307 Addition means 308 Reference amount judgment means 309 Tax exemption means 310 Printing means

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0111]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. Tax exemption means for performing a tax exemption process of exempting the tax amount from the amount of goods subject to tax exemption, Reading means for reading information corresponding to part or all of the matters to be described as defined by the laws and regulations regarding the tax exemption system from a passport, Display means for displaying the information read by the reading means on a display, Confirmation reception means for receiving confirmation of the information displayed on the display, Printing means for printing a document including details of the goods subject to the tax exemption process and the information received by the confirmation reception means when the tax exemption process is performed, Comprising, The display means is a merchandise sales data processing device that displays an indicator indicating that it is a tax-free transaction on the display on the condition that the confirmation reception means has received the confirmation.

2. The display means displays the information for each matter read by the reading means on the display in association with a first operator for instructing deletion of the information, The printing means prints the document with the information emptied when deletion of the information is instructed by an operation of the first operator. The merchandise sales data processing device according to claim 1.

3. The display means displays a second operator for instructing rereading of the passport on the display, The reading means rereads the information from the passport when rereading is instructed by an operation of the second operator. The merchandise sales data processing device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The reading means optically reads a character string corresponding to the matter from a character string that is information described in the passport. The merchandise sales data processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The reading means reads information corresponding to the matter from a storage medium held by the passport. The merchandise sales data processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. A computer, Tax exemption means for performing a tax exemption process of exempting the tax amount from the amount of goods subject to tax exemption, Reading means for reading information corresponding to part or all of the matters to be described as defined by the laws and regulations regarding the tax exemption system from a passport, Display means for displaying the information read by the reading means on a display, Confirmation reception means for receiving confirmation of the information displayed on the display, Printing means for printing a document including details of the goods subject to the tax exemption process and the information received by the confirmation reception means when the tax exemption process is performed, Functioning as, The display means is a program that displays an indicator indicating that it is a duty-free transaction on the display, on the condition that the confirmation reception means has received the confirmation.

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