System, settlement device, and program

Abstract

To reliably prevent fraudulent use of vouchers and ensure efficient checkout.SOLUTION: A checkout system includes an article registration device for registering purchased articles through store clerk operation and a settlement device for performing settlement processing on purchased articles registered by the article registration device through customer operation. The article registration device registers article identification information for the purchased articles, registers payment information in the form of voucher information, and transmits information based on the registered article identification information and the payment information in the form of voucher information as information used for settlement processing. The settlement device performs settlement processing based on the information received from the article registration device and prints information based on the payment information in the form of voucher information contained in the received information. The settlement device can execute settlement processing using electronic money when there is a difference between the purchase amount based on the articles registered by the article registration device and the amount based on the voucher information, and the purchase amount is greater. The article registration device can execute settlement using a credit card.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] At checkout counters in retail stores where purchased items are registered and settled, payment is sometimes made using gift certificates. In conventional checkout counters equipped with registers where purchased items are registered and settled by a store clerk, the clerk receives a gift certificate from a shopper, registers necessary information such as the amount in the register, registers the purchased items, and then performs a settlement process based on the registered gift certificate amount and the registered purchase amount (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Recently, self-service registers have also been proposed in order to reduce labor costs and eliminate waiting times at the register. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-143159 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, even if self-service registers were introduced to reduce labor costs, when paying using gift certificates, a store clerk had to be called each time to pay using the gift certificate in order to prevent fraudulent use of the gift certificate, which made the payment process inefficient and unpopular with shoppers.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and aims to provide a technology that prevents fraudulent use of gift certificates, coupons, etc., and enables quick and efficient checkout without increasing labor costs when settling payments using payment information such as gift certificates or coupons. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention provides a checkout system comprising a product registration device operated by a store clerk to register purchased products, and a settlement device operated by a customer to settle the payment for the purchased products registered by the product registration device, wherein the product registration device comprises product identification information registration means for registering product identification information of the purchased products, payment information registration means for registering gift certificate information that is payment information, and transmission means for transmitting information based on the registered product identification information and the gift certificate information that is payment information as information to be used in the settlement process, the settlement device comprises receiving means for receiving the information transmitted by the transmission means, settlement means for performing the settlement process based on the received information, and printing means for printing information based on the gift certificate information that is payment information included in the information received by the receiving means, and when there is a difference between the purchase amount based on the products registered by the product registration device and the amount based on the gift certificate information and the purchase amount is greater, the settlement means is capable of performing the settlement process using electronic money, and the product registration device is capable of settling the payment using a credit card.

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a checkout system according to another aspect of the present invention includes a product registration device operated by a store clerk to register purchased products, a checkout device operated by a customer to perform a payment process for the purchased products registered by the product registration device, and a computer device communicably connected to the product registration device and the checkout device, wherein the product registration device includes product identification information registration means for registering product identification information of the purchased products, payment information registration means for registering gift certificate information which is payment information, and information based on the registered product identification information and the gift certificate information which is payment information, used in the payment process. The settlement device comprises a receiving means for receiving the information sent by the transmitting means from the computer device, a settlement means for performing the settlement process based on the received information, and a printing means for printing information based on gift certificate information which is payment information included in the information received by the receiving means, and when there is a difference between the purchase amount based on the product registered in the product registration device and the amount based on the gift certificate information and the purchase amount is greater, the settlement means is capable of performing the settlement process using electronic money, and the product registration device is capable of performing settlement using a credit card.

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention provides a program for a checkout system including a product registration device operated by a store clerk to register purchased products and a checkout device operated by a customer to perform checkout processing for the purchased products registered by the product registration device, the program causing a first computer to function as the product registration device and a second computer to function as the checkout device, the program causing the first computer to function as the product registration device, the program causing the first computer to function as the checkout device, the program causing the first computer to function as the product identification information registration means for registering product identification information for the purchased products, payment information registration means for registering gift certificate information that is payment information, and information based on the registered product identification information and the gift certificate information that is payment information, the second computer functions as a receiving means for receiving the information transmitted by the transmitting means, a settlement means for performing the settlement process based on the received information, and a printing means for printing information based on gift certificate information, which is payment information included in the information received by the receiving means; the settlement means is capable of performing the settlement process using electronic money when there is a difference between the purchase amount based on the products registered in the product registration device and the amount based on the gift certificate information and the purchase amount is greater; and the first computer further functions as a credit card settlement means for performing settlement using a credit card. In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention provides a program for a checkout system including a product registration device operated by a store clerk to register purchased products, a checkout device operated by a customer to perform a checkout process for the purchased products registered by the product registration device, and a store controller communicably connected to the product registration device and the checkout device, the program causing a first computer to function as the product registration device and a second computer to function as the checkout device, the program causing the first ... The first computer functions as a transmitting means that transmits the information to the store controller as information to be used in the settlement process, and the second computer functions as a receiving means that receives the information sent by the transmitting means from the store controller, a settlement means that performs the settlement process based on the received information, and a printing means that prints information based on gift certificate information, which is payment information included in the information received by the receiving means, and the settlement means is capable of performing the settlement process using electronic money when there is a difference between the purchase amount based on the products registered in the product registration device and the amount based on the gift certificate information, and the purchase amount is greater, and the first computer further functions as a credit card settlement means that performs settlement using a credit card. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, when payment information such as gift certificates or coupons is used to settle a bill, waiting at the cash register can be eliminated without increasing labor costs, and fraudulent use of gift certificates or coupons can be prevented, allowing for quick and efficient checkout. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a checkout system according to a first embodiment installed on a store floor and operating. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a product registration device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a settlement device in the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the data structure of a product data file. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the internal data structure of gift certificate information. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram schematically showing a memory map of product identification information and gift certificate information stored in a RAM (Random Access Memory). FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a print example of a transaction receipt printed by the printing unit of the product registration device in the embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a product registration process executed by the product registration device in the embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a settlement process executed by the settlement device in the same embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a display example of a payment menu (a) displayed on the display unit of the payment settlement device in the same embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a display example of a menu displayed on the display unit of the settlement device in the same embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a display example of a menu displayed on the display unit of the settlement device in the same embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a display example of a menu displayed on the display unit of the settlement device in the same embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a display example of a payment menu (b) displayed on the display unit of the payment settlement device in the same embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a display example of a payment menu (c) displayed on the display unit of the payment settlement device in the same embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a checkout system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure between the merchandise registration device, the settlement device, and the store controller in the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. [First embodiment] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a checkout system according to a first embodiment of the present invention installed and operating on a store floor. As shown in the figure, the checkout system 100 includes five product registration devices 10 and six payment devices (automatic payment devices) 20. The product registration devices 10 are installed at product registration counters 11, and the two payment devices 20 are installed at payment counters 21.

[0012] A store controller (not shown) is also installed in the backyard of the store where the checkout system 100 is installed. The store controller and the five product registration devices 10 and six payment devices 20 of the checkout system 100 are communicatively connected via a local area network (LAN) (not shown). The store controller is a computer device that records a product data file including a data table related to products handled by the store. The store controller updates the product data file, for example daily, depending on the product sales status, purchasing status, etc., and supplies the updated product data file to the five product registration devices 10 and the six payment devices 20. Details of the product data file will be described later. The store controller may be part of a point-of-sale (POS) system or connected to a POS system.

[0013] The product registration device 10 is a device that registers product identification information of the product (purchased product) purchased by shopper C, and, if shopper C wishes to settle the bill using a gift certificate, the gift certificate information of the gift certificate, according to the operation of operator S, and converts the registered product identification information and gift certificate information into two-dimensional codes and prints them on a transaction receipt. The product identification information is information for identifying a product that is recorded in a barcode attached, pasted, printed, etc. to the product. The product identification information is, for example, a 13-digit JAN (Japanese Article Number) code.

[0014] A gift certificate is a ticket that has monetary value and can be used to settle a bill at the checkout system 100. Examples of gift certificates include gift certificates, coupons, and service vouchers. Gift certificates and gift vouchers include general-purpose certificates such as gift cards issued by credit card companies, common certificates such as common gift certificates, book cards, stationery certificates, and common beer certificates that can be used nationwide or in a specific region, and unique certificates issued independently by manufacturers, stores, companies, etc. Coupon certificates are, for example, certificates that state a discount or discount amount. Service vouchers are, for example, certificates that state that a specific quantity of a specific product will be provided free of charge. In this embodiment, information regarding the available amount obtained from the gift certificate in the transaction, the amount of the reward product, etc., and information identifying the type of gift certificate are called gift certificate information, and this gift certificate information is payment information used by shopper C for payment. In particular, gift certificates, discount coupons, etc., constitute all or part of the payment amount, and therefore constitute payment information for shopper C. In addition to gift certificates, the product registration device 10 may be provided with a credit card settlement function, and credit card payment information may be converted into a two-dimensional code together with product identification information.

[0015] The product registration device 10 is installed at the product registration counter 11 so that the shopper C and the operator S stand facing each other across the product registration counter 11. Therefore, when the shopper C wishes to use a gift certificate, the shopper C and the operator S, who are standing facing each other, can easily exchange the gift certificate. Similarly, the operator S and the shopper C can easily exchange the accounting receipt printed and output by the product registration device 10.

[0016] The settlement device 20 reads the two-dimensional code printed on the settlement receipt by shopper C who is holding the receipt, and extracts the two-dimensional code information recorded in the two-dimensional code. Then, based on the product identification information contained in the extracted two-dimensional code information and a data table of product data files pre-stored in the settlement device 20, the settlement device 20 extracts the product names and sales prices of the products purchased by shopper C from the data table, and calculates the total purchase amount of the extracted sales prices. The total purchase amount is the sum of the sales prices of all the products purchased by shopper C.

[0017] Furthermore, if gift certificate information is included in the two-dimensional code recorded information, the settlement device 20 calculates the total gift certificate amount based on the gift certificate information. The total gift certificate amount is the total amount used in the transaction for all gift certificates used by shopper C in that transaction. If gift certificate information is not included in the two-dimensional code recorded information, the settlement device 20 sets the total gift certificate amount to 0 yen. Furthermore, the settlement device 20 calculates the payment request amount or refund amount based on the calculated total purchase amount and total gift certificate amount. The payment request amount is the difference (total purchase amount - total gift certificate amount) when the total gift certificate amount is less than the total purchase amount. The refund amount is the difference (total gift certificate amount - total purchase amount) when the total gift certificate amount is more than the total purchase amount.

[0018] The settlement device 20 then displays, in a checkout menu, the names of the products purchased by shopper C, the total purchase amount, the total gift certificate amount, the requested payment amount or refund amount, and information prompting shopper C to perform the settlement operation. The settlement device 20 also has a change dispenser and processes change for the money inserted by shopper C. After processing the change, the settlement device 20 also prints and outputs a receipt.

[0019] The checkout counter 21 is preferably located at the end of the path that shopper C will follow from the product display floor via the product registration counter 11. In the store floor shown in FIG. 1, the product registration counter 11 and the checkout counter 21 are installed so that shopper C will move from the front left to the back right in the perspective view. After receiving a transaction receipt printed by the product registration device 10 from operator S, shopper C can proceed to any of the three checkout counters 21 of their choice, for example, an empty checkout counter 21, to complete the transaction. In other words, in the checkout system 100, the available checkout devices 20 are not limited by the product registration device 10 that printed the transaction receipt.

[0020] The number of product registration devices 10 and the number of payment devices 20 included in the checkout system 100 are not limited to five or six, and are determined depending on, for example, the size and cost of the store. In this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, a checkout system 100 including one product registration device 10 and one payment device 20 will be described.

[0021] 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of product registration device 10. As shown in the figure, product registration device 10 has a configuration in which CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, scanner unit (product identification information registration means) 104, clerk display unit 105, customer display unit 106, hard disk (product data storage means) 107, clerk operation unit 108, communication unit 109, buzzer 110, and printing unit (medium recording means) 111 are connected via bus 112.

[0022] CPU 101 is a control unit that reads out a product registration program stored in ROM 102, expands it into RAM 103, and executes the steps of the expanded product registration program, thereby controlling the entire product registration device 10. By executing the product registration program, CPU 101 generates a two-dimensional code based on the product identification information of the product purchased by shopper C and, if there is a gift certificate that shopper C wishes to use for payment, the gift certificate information. This two-dimensional code is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark).

[0023] As described above, ROM 102 stores the product registration program to be executed by CPU 101, and also stores product registration device identification information, which is identification information for product registration device 10. RAM 103 expands the product registration program read from ROM 102 by CPU 101, and stores various variables and data, such as product identification information and gift certificate information, generated by CPU 101 executing the product registration program.

[0024] The scanner unit 104 is a barcode reader that reads a barcode and extracts the information recorded in the barcode. When the operator S himself / herself positions a barcode attached, pasted, printed, etc. to an item purchased by the shopper C in a readable position in the barcode reading area of the scanner unit 104, the scanner unit 104 reads the barcode, extracts the item identification information recorded in the barcode, and stores it in the RAM 103.

[0025] The store clerk display unit 105 is a display unit that presents information to the operator S, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display device. Every time the scanner unit 104 reads the barcode of a product and stores the product identification information recorded in the barcode in the RAM 103, the CPU 101 extracts the product name and sales price of the product from the data table based on the product identification information and the data table of the product data file stored in the hard disk 107, and supplies the product name and sales price to the store clerk display unit 105, which then displays the product name and sales price. The clerk display unit 105 also receives and displays coupon information generated by the CPU 101 based on an operation signal supplied from the clerk operation unit 108 to the CPU 101 in accordance with an operation of the clerk operation unit 108 by the operator S.

[0026] The customer display unit 106 is a display unit that presents information to shopper C, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display device. The customer display unit 106 displays, for example, the same information as that displayed on the store clerk display unit 105, supplied from the CPU 101. The hard disk 107 is a magnetic hard disk device that records product data files supplied from a store controller connected via the communication unit 109. The hard disk 107 may record a product registration program instead of the ROM 102.

[0027] The clerk operation unit 108 includes a plurality of gift certificate keys for specifying and inputting the type of gift certificate, numeric keys for specifying and inputting the number representing the amount of the gift certificate, and a total key for specifying and inputting that the registration of the purchased items and the gift certificate has been completed. Note that the key is not limited to the total key, and any key that indicates that the registration of the purchased items and gift certificate information has been completed may be used, and may also be a print key that indicates the start of printing, for example. In other words, the clerk operation unit 108 includes a payment information registration means. The store clerk operation unit 108 may also be provided with a pre-registered product designation key for inputting product identification information of a specific product. In this way, the product registration device 10 registers the product identification information of a specific product by pressing the product designation key corresponding to the specific product, rather than by reading a barcode.

[0028] The communication unit 109 is a communication interface for communicating with external devices, such as a network interface connected to a store controller via a LAN. The buzzer 110 is a sound generator that generates confirmation sounds and warning sounds, such as a digitally synthesized sound when the scanner unit 104 successfully reads a barcode, when a key on the clerk operation unit 108 is pressed, or when an operator S makes an incorrect operation. The printing unit 111 prints the two-dimensional code generated by the CPU 101 on a paper medium and outputs it as a transaction receipt.

[0029] 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of settlement device 20. As shown in the figure, settlement device 20 has a configuration in which CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, scanner unit (medium reading means) 204, display unit 205, customer operation unit 206, communication unit 207, buzzer 208, printing unit 209, and change dispenser 210 are connected via bus 211.

[0030] The CPU 201 is a control unit that reads out a billing program stored in the ROM 202, expands it into the RAM 203, and executes the steps of the expanded billing program, thereby controlling the entire settlement device 20. By executing the billing program, the CPU 201 performs settlement processing based on the two-dimensional code recorded information obtained from the two-dimensional code printed on the billing receipt.

[0031] Specifically, the CPU 201 extracts the product names and sales prices of the products purchased by the shopper C from the data table based on the product identification information read from the two-dimensional code by the scanner unit 204 and stored in the RAM 203, and the data table of the product data file pre-stored in the RAM 203, and calculates the total purchase amount of the extracted sales prices. In other words, the CPU 201 includes a total purchase amount calculation means. Furthermore, the CPU 201 calculates the total amount of the gift certificates based on the gift certificate information read from the two-dimensional code by the scanner unit 204 and stored in the RAM 203. If the information read from the two-dimensional code does not include gift certificate information, the CPU 201 sets the total amount of the gift certificates to 0 yen.

[0032] The CPU 201 also calculates the payment demand amount or refund amount based on the calculated total purchase amount and total gift certificate amount. Specifically, for example, the CPU 201 calculates the difference between the total purchase amount and the total gift certificate amount (total purchase amount - total gift certificate amount), and if the difference is 0 or a positive integer, the difference is used as the payment demand amount, and if the difference is a negative integer, the difference is used as the refund amount. In other words, the CPU 201 includes a settlement amount calculation means.

[0033] As described above, ROM 202 stores the checkout program to be executed by CPU 201, and also stores checkout device identification information, which is identification information for checkout device 20. RAM 203 stores product data files supplied from the store controller connected via communication unit 207. RAM 203 also expands the checkout program read from ROM 202 by CPU 201, and stores various variables and data generated by CPU 201's execution of the checkout recording program, such as the total purchase amount, total gift certificate amount, and payment request amount or refund amount.

[0034] The scanner unit 204 is a two-dimensional code reader that reads a two-dimensional code and extracts the two-dimensional code information recorded in the two-dimensional code. When shopper C positions the two-dimensional code printed on the accounting receipt so that it can be read in the two-dimensional code reading area of the scanner unit 204, the scanner unit 204 reads the two-dimensional code and extracts the product identification information, or the product identification information and gift certificate information, recorded in the two-dimensional code and stores it in RAM 203.

[0035] Display unit 205 is a display unit that presents information to shopper C, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display device. Display unit 205 receives from CPU 201 a checkout menu that includes information such as the product names of the products purchased by shopper C, the total purchase amount, the total gift certificate amount, the requested payment amount or refund amount, and text prompting shopper C to perform the checkout operation, and displays the checkout menu. Display unit 205 also displays the settlement amount information that is supplied from CPU 201. The settlement amount is the amount after the change dispenser 210 has processed the change and notified CPU 201.

[0036] Customer operation unit 206 is provided together with display unit 205 and is a touch panel input device that generates operation signals by operating GUI (Graphical User Interface) operation buttons displayed on display unit 205 under the control of CPU 201. Customer operation unit 206 is equipped with an accounting key that causes CPU 201 to start the settlement process, and a settlement key that causes change dispenser 210 to start the change process. In other words, display unit 205 and customer operation unit 206 form a touch panel type liquid crystal display.

[0037] The communication unit 207 is a communication interface for communicating with external devices, such as a network interface connected to a store controller via a LAN. The buzzer 208 is a sound generating unit that generates confirmation sounds and warning sounds, such as a digitally synthesized sound when the scanner unit 204 successfully reads a two-dimensional code, when a key on the customer operation unit 206 is pressed, or when shopper C performs an incorrect operation.

[0038] The printing unit 209 prints and outputs a receipt on a paper medium when the CPU 201 has completed the settlement process. The change dispenser 210 is an automatic change dispenser equipped with an input and output port for coins and banknotes. The change dispenser 210 counts the coins and / or banknotes inserted into the input port by the shopper C and notifies the CPU 201 of the amount deposited. Furthermore, the change dispenser 210 dispenses the amount of money to be refunded based on the amount notified by the CPU 201 and discharges that amount to the output port.

[0039] Next, the product data file will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the data structure of the product data file. As shown in the figure, the product data file is a file of a data table (product data) including records with the following items: "product identification information," "product name," and "sales price." The "product identification information" item includes information recorded in a barcode that is attached, pasted, printed, etc. to a product. In this embodiment, as described above, the product identification information is a 13-digit JAN code. Therefore, the two most significant digits of the product identification information are information that identifies a country code, in-store marking, or the like. The "product name" item includes a string representing the product name of the product. The "sales price" item includes a number representing the sales price of the product. The primary key in this data table is the "product identification information" item.

[0040] Next, we will explain the gift certificate information. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the internal data structure of gift certificate information. As shown in the figure, gift certificate information is, for example, a 13-digit number, with the most significant two digits representing the "identifier," the next two digits representing the "type," the next two digits representing the "spare," and the remaining seven digits representing the "amount." The "identifier" is a fixed number that is commonly applied to gift certificate information and does not match the two most significant digits of the product identification information. For example, if the product identification information is a JAN code, the "identifier" is a number (e.g., "90") that is not included in the country code or in-store marking. The "type" is a number that indicates the type of gift certificate, for example, gift certificates and gift vouchers = "01", coupons = "02", and service vouchers = "03". The "reserve" is a number that is not used (referenced) by the product registration device 10 and the settlement device 20, and is "00". Note that the "reserve" may also be used to expand the "type" number and classify gift certificates in more detail. The "amount" is a number that indicates the amount written on the gift certificate or the amount related to the product name or service content written on it. For example, for a gift certificate that reads "XX common gift certificate ￥1,000," the "amount" is "0001000," and for a coupon that reads "△△ store coupon ￥500 off," the "amount" is "0000500."

[0041] When the CPU 101 of the product registration device 10 executes the product registration program and registers the products purchased by shopper C and the gift certificate information of the gift certificate, the product identification information and gift certificate information are stored in the RAM 103. Fig. 6 is a diagram schematically showing a memory map of the product identification information and gift certificate information stored in the RAM 103. Referring to Fig. 6 together with Fig. 4, the memory map shown in Fig. 6 indicates that a product with the product name "XX oil" and a sales price of "650", a product with the product name "YY meat" and a sales price of "850", and a gift certificate with a type of "gift certificate and gift certificate" and an amount of "1000" are registered.

[0042] Next, we will explain the transaction receipt. Figure 7 is an example of a transaction receipt printed by the printing unit 111 of the product registration device 10. As shown in the figure, the transaction receipt 7 is printed with the printing date and time ("Printed on May 6, 2010, 2:30:50 PM"), a transaction identification number that identifies the transaction by shopper C ("Shopping Cart No. 126"), the number of items purchased ("Number of items purchased: 2"), and a QR Code (registered trademark), which is a two-dimensional code.

[0043] If gift certificate information is also registered during the product registration process, the product registration device 10 may print gift certificate usage information (especially the gift certificate amount) for that gift certificate on the transaction receipt. That is, the product registration device 10 stores standard phrases for gift certificate usage information for each "type" of gift certificate information in RAM 103, and prints standard phrases with amount information added on the transaction receipt 7 based on the "type" and "amount" of the gift certificate information using the printing unit 111. Specifically, for gift certificate information with a "type" of "01" and an "amount" of "0005000," the product registration device 10 prints the following gift certificate usage information on the transaction receipt 7: "The deposited gift certificate worth 5,000 yen will be used for settlement."

[0044] Next, the operation of the checkout system 100 will be explained, dividing it into the product registration process executed by the product registration device 10 and the settlement process executed by the settlement device 20. First, we will explain the product registration process by the product registration device 10. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the steps of the product registration process executed by the product registration device 10. When the CPU 101 reads out the product registration program stored in the ROM 102, loads it into the RAM 103, and starts execution of the loaded product registration program, the product registration device 10 starts the product registration process according to the flowchart in the figure.

[0045] In step S1, when the operator S himself / herself positions a barcode attached, pasted, printed, etc. to an item purchased by shopper C so that it can be read in the barcode reading area of scanner unit 104, scanner unit 104 reads the barcode, extracts the commodity identification information recorded in the barcode, and stores the commodity identification information in RAM 103. If there are multiple identical items purchased, when operator S operates the numeric keys on store clerk operation unit 108 to input the number of items to be purchased, store clerk operation unit 108 supplies a key code representing the purchase number to CPU 101, and CPU 101 stores the same number of commodity identification information as the purchase number in RAM 103 based on the supplied key code.

[0046] Next, in step S2, CPU 101 determines whether any of the multiple gift certificate keys on clerk operation unit 108 has been pressed. That is, when a gift certificate is presented by shopper C who wishes to use it to settle a bill, operator S receives the gift certificate from shopper C, determines its type, and presses the gift certificate key corresponding to the determined type from among the multiple gift certificate keys provided corresponding to the gift certificate type. For example, operator S receives from shopper C a gift certificate that reads "XX Common Gift Certificate ¥1,000," and presses the gift certificate key provided corresponding to the gift certificate and gift certificate. This operation causes clerk operation unit 108 to supply the key code of the pressed gift certificate key to CPU 101, and CPU 101 retrieves the supplied key code and determines that the gift certificate key provided corresponding to the gift certificate and gift certificate has been pressed. If CPU 101 determines that the coupon key has been pressed (S2: YES), the process proceeds to step S3, and if CPU 101 determines that the coupon key has not been pressed (S2: NO), the process proceeds to step S4.

[0047] In the processing of step S3, the CPU 101 generates gift certificate information based on a predetermined gift certificate identifier (e.g., "90"), a predetermined type number corresponding to the pressed gift certificate key (e.g., "01" for gift certificates and gift vouchers), and a numeric code of the amount (e.g., "1000") supplied from the store clerk operation unit 108, and stores this gift certificate information in RAM 103.

[0048] Specifically, if the gift certificate is a gift certificate or gift voucher worth 1,000 yen, the CPU 101 generates the gift certificate information "9001000001000" shown in Figure 5 based on, for example, the predetermined gift certificate identifier "90," the predetermined type number "01" corresponding to the gift certificate key associated with the pressed gift certificate or gift voucher, and the numeric code for the amount "1000" supplied from the store clerk operation unit 108, and stores it in RAM 103. Also, if the gift certificate is a coupon for a 500 yen discount, the CPU 101 generates the gift certificate information "9002000000500" shown in Figure 5 based on, for example, the predetermined gift certificate identifier "90," the predetermined type number "02" corresponding to the gift certificate key associated with the pressed coupon, and the numeric code of the amount "500" supplied from the clerk operation unit 108, and stores it in RAM 103.

[0049] Next, in step S4, CPU 101 determines whether the cash total key on clerk operation unit 108 has been pressed. That is, operator S presses the cash total key on clerk operation unit 108 after completing the product registration of the items purchased by shopper C and, if there is a gift certificate desired to be used, confirming that the registration of that gift certificate has been completed, or after confirming that shopper C has not requested to use the gift certificate. This operation causes clerk operation unit 108 to supply the key code of the pressed cash total key to CPU 101, and CPU 101 retrieves the supplied key code and determines that the cash total key has been pressed. If CPU 101 determines that the cash total key has been pressed (S4: YES), CPU 101 generates a two-dimensional code based on the purchased item information and gift certificate information stored in RAM 103, and proceeds to step S5. On the other hand, if CPU 101 determines that the cash total key has not been pressed (S4: NO), the process proceeds to step S1.

[0050] In step S5, CPU 101 supplies the date and time information of the built-in clock, a transaction identification number expressed as a number that increases by one for each transaction, the number of items purchased (the number of items identified by the product identification information), and the two-dimensional code to printing unit 111. Printing unit 111 then prints out the supplied information and outputs it as a transaction receipt.

[0051] Next, we will explain the settlement process by the settlement device 20. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the steps of the settlement process executed by the settlement device 20. When the CPU 201 reads out the settlement program stored in the ROM 203, loads it into the RAM 203, and starts execution of the loaded settlement program, the settlement device 20 starts the settlement process according to the flowchart in the figure. Before executing the payment process, the payment device 20 stores in advance in the RAM 203 the product data file provided by the store controller.

[0052] In step S11, when shopper C's own actions position the two-dimensional code printed on the transaction receipt so that it can be read in the two-dimensional code reading area of the scanner unit 204, the scanner unit 204 reads the two-dimensional code, extracts the two-dimensional code recording information recorded in the two-dimensional code, and stores it in RAM 203. Specifically, for example, the scanner unit 204 reads the two-dimensional code printed on the transaction receipt, extracts the product identification information "4912345678966" and "4912345678980" recorded in the two-dimensional code, and the gift certificate information "9001000001000", and stores these in RAM 203. As a result, the memory map shown in FIG. 6 is developed in RAM 203.

[0053] Next, the CPU 201 extracts product identification information from the two-dimensional code recording information stored in RAM 203, and uses this extracted product identification information as a search key to extract product names and sales prices from a data table of a product data file previously stored in RAM 203. As a method for extracting product identification information, for example, the CPU 201 extracts only data whose two most significant digits indicate product identification information from the two-dimensional code recording information stored in RAM 203. Next, the CPU 201 counts the number of extracted product identification information items with the same number (however, if there are no identical items, the counting result is "1"), and stores the counting result (i.e., the number of purchases), product name, and sales price for each product identification information item in RAM 203. The CPU 201 then calculates the total sales price and stores it in RAM 203 as the total purchase amount.

[0054] Next, in step S12, the CPU 201 searches for gift certificate information from the two-dimensional code recording information stored in the RAM 203, and if gift certificate information is detected (S12: YES), it extracts the amount from the gift certificate information. As a method for extracting gift certificate information, for example, the CPU 201 extracts only data whose two most significant digits indicate gift certificate information from the two-dimensional code recording information stored in the RAM 203. Next, the CPU 201 calculates the total amount of the amounts of one or more gift certificate information, stores this in the RAM 203 as the total gift certificate amount, and proceeds to processing in step S13. On the other hand, if the CPU 201 does not extract gift certificate information from the two-dimensional code recorded information stored in the RAM 203 (S12: NO), it stores the gift certificate total amount as "0" in the RAM 203 and proceeds to the process of step S24.

[0055] In step S13, the CPU 201 calculates the difference between the total purchase amount and the total gift certificate amount stored in RAM 203 (total purchase amount - total gift certificate amount), and if the difference is "0" or a positive integer (S13: YES), the CPU 201 stores the difference in RAM 203 as the payment request amount and proceeds to processing in step S14. On the other hand, if the calculated difference is a negative integer (S13: NO), the CPU 201 stores the difference in RAM 203 as the refund amount and proceeds to processing in step S22.

[0056] In step S14, CPU 201 supplies to display unit 205 a checkout menu (a) that includes information stored in RAM 203, such as the product names, purchase quantities, total purchase amounts, total gift certificate amounts, and payment requested amounts, of the products purchased by shopper C, as well as an image of the checkout key GUI operation button. Display unit 205 then displays the checkout menu (a). The checkout key, which is a GUI operation button, has the function of customer operation unit 206. An example of the checkout menu (a) displayed by the display unit 205 is shown in Figure 10. As shown in the figure, in the processing of step S14, the display unit 205 displays menu 50a. On the left side of menu 50a, the product names and purchase quantities of the products purchased by shopper C are displayed for each product, and on the right side of menu 50a, information is displayed including the total purchase amount, the total gift certificate amount, the requested payment amount, the checkout key 51, and information prompting the user to press the checkout key 51 ("Please press the checkout key").

[0057] In step S15, when the checkout key 51 is touched by shopper C, the customer operation unit 206 supplies an operation signal indicating that the checkout key 51 has been touched to the CPU 201, and upon receiving the operation signal, the CPU 201 proceeds to processing in step S16. Next, in step S16, the CPU 201 supplies a menu including the payment request amount stored in the RAM 203 and an image of the GUI operation button of the settlement key to the display unit 205. The display unit 205 then displays the menu. The settlement key, which is a GUI operation button, has the function of the customer operation unit 206. An example of the menu displayed by the display unit 205 is shown in Fig. 11. As shown in Fig. 11, in the processing of step S16, the display unit 205 displays a menu 60a. The menu 60a displays information including the payment amount requested from shopper C, a settlement key 61, and information prompting the shopper C to press the settlement key 61 ("Please insert into the change machine and press the settlement key").

[0058] Next, in step S17, when the shopper C deposits money corresponding to the requested payment amount into the deposit slot of the change machine 210, the change machine 210 deposits the deposited money and notifies the CPU 201 of the deposited amount. Then, the CPU 201 stores the deposited amount in the RAM 203. Next, in step S18, the CPU 201 supplies the deposit amount stored in the RAM 203 to the display unit 205, and the display unit displays the deposit amount. Specifically, for example, if the deposit amount is "1000", the display unit 205 displays the menu 60b shown in FIG. Next, in step S19, when the settlement key 61 is touched by shopper C, the customer operation unit 206 supplies an operation signal indicating that the settlement key 61 has been touched to the CPU 201, and the CPU 201 receives the operation signal and proceeds to processing in step S20.

[0059] In step S20, which is executed following the processing of step S19, the CPU 201 calculates the difference between the payment request amount stored in RAM 203 and the deposited amount (deposited amount - payment request amount), and if the difference is "0" or a positive integer (i.e., the change amount is 0 yen or there is change), stores the difference as the change amount in RAM 203. Next, the CPU 201 notifies the change dispenser 210 of the change amount. Upon receiving the notification of the change amount, the change dispenser 210 dispenses the change amount and discharges it through the discharge port. Then, the change dispenser 210 notifies the CPU 201 of the completion of the change process. Next, the CPU 201 supplies the change amount stored in RAM 203 to the display unit 205, and the display unit displays the change amount. Specifically, if the change amount is "500," the display unit 205 displays the menu 70a shown in FIG. 13.

[0060] In addition, in the processing of step S20 above, if the difference calculated by CPU 201 is a negative integer (i.e., if there is a shortfall), although not shown in the flowchart of Figure 9, the difference is stored in RAM 203 as a new payment request amount, and the processing returns to step S16.

[0061] In step S21, when the CPU 201 receives a notification from the change dispenser 210 that the change process is complete, it supplies receipt information stored in RAM 203 to the printing unit 209. The receipt information includes the product name, sales price, number of purchases, total purchase amount, total gift certificate amount, deposit amount, and change amount of the products purchased by shopper C. The printing unit 209 then prints the receipt information on a paper medium, outputs it as a receipt, and notifies the CPU 201 that printing has been completed. Upon receiving the printing completion information, the CPU 201 ends the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0062] If the difference calculated by CPU 201 in the processing of step S13 is a negative integer (S13: NO), in step S22 CPU 201 supplies to display unit 205 a checkout menu (b) that includes information stored in RAM 203 about the product names, purchase quantities, total purchase amounts, total gift certificate amounts, and refund amounts of the products purchased by shopper C, as well as an image of a GUI operation button for the checkout key. Display unit 205 then displays the checkout menu (b). An example of the checkout menu (b) displayed by the display unit 205 is shown in Figure 14. As shown in the figure, in the processing of step S22, the display unit 205 displays menu 50b. On the left side of menu 50b, the product names and purchase quantities of the products purchased by shopper C are displayed for each product, and on the right side of menu 50b, information is displayed including the total purchase amount, the total gift certificate amount, the refund amount, the checkout key 51, and information prompting the user to press the checkout key 51 ("Please press the checkout key").

[0063] In step S23, when the checkout key 51 is touched by shopper C, the customer operation unit 206 supplies an operation signal indicating that the checkout key 51 has been touched to the CPU 201, and upon receiving the operation signal, the CPU 201 proceeds to processing in step S20.

[0064] In step S20, which is executed following the processing of step S23, the CPU 201 notifies the change dispenser 210 of the refund amount stored in RAM 203. Upon receiving the notification of the refund amount, the change dispenser 210 dispenses the refund amount and discharges it through the discharge port. The change dispenser 210 then notifies the CPU 201 that the change process is complete. Next, the CPU 201 supplies the refund amount stored in RAM 203 to the display unit 205 as the change amount, and the display unit displays the change amount.

[0065] If the CPU 201 does not extract gift certificate information from the two-dimensional code recorded information stored in RAM 203 in the processing of step S12 (S12: NO), in step S24 the CPU 201 supplies to the display unit 205 a checkout menu (c) that includes the information stored in RAM 203 about the product names, purchase quantities, and total purchase amounts of the products purchased by shopper C, as well as an image of a GUI operation button for the checkout key. The display unit 205 then displays the checkout menu (c). The processing then proceeds to step S15. An example of the checkout menu (c) displayed by the display unit 205 is shown in Figure 15. As shown in the figure, in the processing of step S24, the display unit 205 displays menu 50c. On the left side of menu 50c, the product names and purchase quantities of the products purchased by shopper C are displayed for each product, and on the right side of menu 50c, information including the total purchase amount, the checkout key 51, and information urging the user to press the checkout key 51 ("Please press the checkout key").

[0066] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when registering items purchased by shopper C using the product registration device 10, the operator S only registers the product identification information recorded on the barcode attached, pasted, printed, or the like on the purchased items and the gift certificate information to be used by shopper C. Then, shopper C settles the bill at the checkout device 20 using a transaction receipt on which the product identification information and gift certificate information are printed as two-dimensional codes. Therefore, after completing registration using the product registration device 10, shopper C moves to the desired checkout device 20 (e.g., an available checkout device 20) to settle the bill. This reduces the time spent at the product registration device 10, and the checkout system 100 eliminates the risk of a bottleneck (long waiting times for shoppers) occurring in transaction processing by the operator S, thereby reducing transaction time. Furthermore, because the operator S receives the gift certificate from shopper C and registers the gift certificate information at the product registration device 10, there is no risk of fraudulent use, such as the reuse of the gift certificate by shopper C. Furthermore, the checkout process is efficient because the shopper C does not need to call or have an operator S present when paying using a gift certificate. Also, because the shopper C does not have to wait long, there is no need to increase the number of lanes for the product registration device 10, which helps to reduce increases in labor costs. That is, according to the first embodiment, when payment is made using gift certificate information, fraudulent use of gift certificates can be reliably prevented and checkout can be performed quickly and efficiently without increasing labor costs.

[0067] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, by using a two-dimensional code to print on the accounting receipt output by the product registration device 10, a large amount of information can be included in the two-dimensional code, so that the number of times it needs to be read by the settlement device 20 can be reduced to one, thereby preventing accounting errors and enabling efficient accounting. Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the gift certificate information registered in the product registration device 10 is displayed on the display unit 205 of the payment device 20 at the time of payment, so that shopper C can visually confirm that the gift certificate he or she presented will indeed be used in payment, and can quickly complete the transaction without having to worry about having to reconfirm with the store clerk. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, if the product registration device 10 is configured to print the gift certificate usage information (especially the value of the gift certificate) on the transaction receipt, shopper C can confirm before the transaction process that the desired amount for the gift certificate etc. that he or she has presented will indeed be used in the transaction, allowing for quick transaction without having to worry about having to double-check with the store clerk.

[0068] [Second embodiment] In the checkout system 100 in the first embodiment described above, the product registration device 10 converts product identification information and gift certificate information into two-dimensional codes and prints and outputs them on a transaction receipt, and the settlement device 20 reads the two-dimensional code printed on the transaction receipt and performs settlement processing based on the two-dimensional code recording information recorded in the two-dimensional code and the data table of the product data file supplied from the store controller. The second embodiment of the present invention is an example in which the two-dimensional code recording information included in the two-dimensional code recorded on the transaction receipt differs from that of the first embodiment.

[0069] 16 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a checkout system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the checkout system 200 comprises two product registration devices 10a, two payment devices (automatic payment devices) 20a, and a store controller 30, all connected via a LAN 40. The configurations of the product registration devices 10a and the payment device 20a are the same as those of the product registration device 10 and the payment device 20 in the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description of their respective configurations will be omitted. The number of merchandise registration devices 10a and the number of payment settlement devices 20a included in the checkout system 200 are not limited to two each, and may be determined depending on, for example, the size and cost of the store.

[0070] The operation of the checkout system 200 will now be described. Fig. 17 is a sequence diagram showing the processing steps between the product registration device 10a, the checkout device 20a, and the store controller 30. First, in step S31, the CPU 101 of the product registration device 10a executes product registration processing in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and stores product identification information and gift certificate information in the RAM 103. Next, in step S32, CPU 101 generates a transaction identification number that identifies the transaction by shopper C, generates a registration data file that includes the transaction identification information, the product identification information stored in RAM 103, and the gift certificate information, and stores the file data in RAM 103. The transaction identification information is, for example, a positive integer that increases with each transaction. Next, CPU 101 converts the transaction identification information into a two-dimensional code and supplies it to printing unit 111, which then prints the two-dimensional code on a paper medium and outputs it as a transaction receipt.

[0071] Next, in step S33, the CPU 101 reads the file data of the registration data file stored in the RAM 103 and supplies it from the communication unit 109 to the store controller 30 via the LAN 40. In step S34, the store controller 30 retrieves the registration data file supplied from the product registration device 10a, and then in step S35, the store controller 30 stores the retrieved registration data file in a storage unit such as a magnetic hard disk drive. Next, in step S36, the store controller 30 distributes the registration data file to all payment terminals 20a included in the checkout system 200 via the LAN 40.

[0072] In step S37, all settlement devices 20a included in the checkout system 200 receive the registration data file via the communication unit 207 and store it in the RAM 203. Next, in step S38, the settlement device 20a, which has had the scanner unit 204 read the two-dimensional code using the accounting receipt printed in the processing of step S32, extracts transaction identification information from the two-dimensional code recorded information stored in the two-dimensional code and stores it in RAM 203. The CPU 201 of the settlement device 20a then uses the transaction identification information as a search key to identify the registered data file from the transaction identification information and file data of the registered data file stored in RAM 203, and extracts product identification information and gift certificate information from the registered data file. Next, the CPU 201 executes the settlement process based on the extracted product identification information and gift certificate information in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0073] As described above, according to the second embodiment, when registering items purchased by shopper C using the product registration device 10a, the operator S only registers the product identification information recorded on the barcode attached, pasted, printed, or the like on the purchased items and the gift certificate information used by shopper C. Then, shopper C settles the bill at the checkout device 20a using a transaction receipt on which the transaction identification information is printed as a two-dimensional code. Therefore, after completing registration using the product registration device 10a, shopper C moves to the desired checkout device 20a (e.g., an available checkout device 20a) to settle the bill, thereby shortening the time spent at the product registration device 10a. Therefore, the checkout system 200 eliminates the risk of bottlenecks (long waiting times for shoppers) occurring in transaction processing by the operator S, thereby shortening transaction time. Furthermore, because the operator S receives the gift certificate from shopper C and registers the gift certificate information, there is no risk of fraudulent use, such as the reuse of the gift certificate by shopper C. Furthermore, the checkout process is efficient because the shopper C does not need to call or have an operator S present when paying using a gift certificate. Also, because the shopper C does not have to wait long, there is no need to increase the number of lanes for the product registration device 10a, which helps to reduce increases in labor costs. That is, according to the second embodiment, when payment is made using gift certificate information, fraudulent use of gift certificates can be reliably prevented and checkout can be performed quickly and efficiently without increasing labor costs.

[0074] In the first embodiment described above, the accounting receipt is a paper medium on which a two-dimensional code is printed. Alternatively, an IC card with a built-in IC chip that can write and read data may be used as the accounting receipt, with the product registration device 10 writing the product identification information and gift certificate information to the IC card, and the settlement device 20 reading the product identification information and gift certificate information from the IC card. Similarly, the merchandise registration device 10a may write the transaction identification information to an IC card, and the settlement device 20 may read the transaction identification information from the IC card and use it. When an IC card is used, a collection box for the IC card used in the settlement process is installed next to the settlement device 20.

[0075] In the first embodiment, the product registration device 10 and the settlement device 20 are not connected online, and the product identification information and gift certificate information are recorded in the two-dimensional code printed on the transaction receipt 7. Alternatively, for example, all product registration devices 10 and all settlement devices 20 in the checkout system 100 may be connected via a LAN, and the product registration device 10 may distribute table information associating a transaction identification number, product identification information, and gift certificate information to all settlement devices 20 for each transaction. In this case, the printing unit 111 of the product registration device 10 converts the transaction identification number of each transaction into a two-dimensional code or barcode and prints it on the transaction receipt. The scanner unit 204 of the settlement device 20 then reads the code printed on the transaction receipt to obtain the transaction identification number. The settlement device 20 then uses the obtained transaction identification number as a search key to obtain the product identification information and gift certificate information from the table information provided by the product registration device 10, and performs the settlement process.

[0076] Furthermore, the scanner unit 104 of the product registration device 10 may not only directly convert the product identification information and payment information into two-dimensional codes and record them as shown in the first embodiment, but may also encode and record key information that can indirectly identify the product identification information and payment information. In the case of indirect identification in this way, for example, the product registration device 10 associates the registered product identification information and payment information with key information and transmits them to the settlement device 20, and the settlement device 20 identifies the product identification information and payment information transmitted from the product registration device 10 by having the scanner unit 204 read the key information recorded on a medium. Also, for example, the product registration device 10 may associate the registered product identification information and payment information with key information and store them in RAM 103, and the settlement device 20 may have the scanner unit 204 read the key information recorded on a medium and refer to the product identification information and payment information stored in RAM 103 of the product registration device 10 based on the key information.

[0077] In addition, in the first and second embodiments, an example is shown in which gift certificate information is entered by operating the numeric keys on the clerk operation unit 108 of the product registration device 10, 10a, but in addition to this, for example, the amount and information regarding the product eligible for the service may be printed as a barcode on the gift certificate, and the scanner unit 104 may read the barcode on the gift certificate to register the gift certificate information.

[0078] In the first and second embodiments, the settlement device 20, 20a calculates the total purchase amount, but the product registration device 10, 10a may calculate the total purchase amount and convert the total purchase amount into a two-dimensional code along with the product identification information and gift certificate information. In this case, the settlement device 20, 20a can obtain the product identification information, gift certificate information, and the total purchase amount from the two-dimensional code printed on the accounting receipt and perform the settlement process.

[0079] In the first and second embodiments, the settlement devices 20, 20a are examples equipped with a change dispenser 210 and perform cash settlement. Alternatively, the settlement devices 20, 20a may be devices (automatic settlement devices) that perform settlement using electronic money. Furthermore, the settlement devices 20, 20a may allow the shopper C to select either cash settlement or electronic money settlement as the settlement method.

[0080] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, when the settlement device 20a reads identification information from the medium and performs settlement, the CPU 101 may refer to the store controller 30 for product identification information and payment information specified by the read identification information. Furthermore, when the settlement device 20a reads identification information from the medium, the settlement device 20a may transmit a command to the store controller 30 requesting that the store controller 30 transmit the product identification information and payment information corresponding to the identification information to the settlement device 20a. The settlement device 20a may then retrieve the product identification information and payment information transmitted from the store controller 30 based on the command and perform settlement processing.

[0081] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and the present invention also includes designs within the scope that do not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 10,10a Product registration device 11 Product registration counter 20, 20a Fare adjustment device (automatic fare adjustment device) 21 Payment counter 30 Store Controller 40 LAN 100,200 Checkout System 101,201 CPU 102,202 ROM 103,203 RAM 104 Scanner unit (product identification information registration means) 105 Display section for clerks 106 Customer display section 107 Hard disk (product data storage means) 108 Clerk operation unit (payment information registration means) 109,207 Communications Department 110,208 Buzzer 111 Printing unit (medium recording means) 112,211 buses 204 Scanner unit (media reading means) 205 Display section 206 Customer operation section 209 Printing Department 210 Change machine

Claims

1. A checkout system including a product registration device operated by a store clerk to register purchased products and a checkout device operated by a customer to perform a checkout process for the purchased products registered by the product registration device, The product registration device a product registration means for registering product identification information of the purchased product; a gift certificate registration means for registering gift certificate information including the type and amount of the gift certificate; a payment medium printing and issuing means for issuing a payment medium on which a code capable of identifying the product identification information registered by the product registration means and the gift certificate information registered by the gift certificate registration means is printed so as to be machine-readable by the payment device; The settlement device a reading means for reading the code printed on the settlement medium; a payment processor that performs payment processing based on the commodity identification information and the coupon information identified from the code read by the reading processor; and a receipt printing and issuing means for printing and issuing a receipt after the settlement means has completed settlement, The payment medium printing and issuing means The type and amount of the gift certificate included in the gift certificate information registered by the gift certificate registration means are further printed on the settlement medium; The receipt printing and issuing means The total purchase amount based on the product identification information identified from the code read by the reading means and the total gift certificate amount based on the gift certificate information identified from the code read by the reading means are printed on the receipt. A checkout system characterized by:

2. A checkout system including a product registration device operated by a store clerk to register purchased products and a checkout device operated by a customer to settle the purchase of the purchased products registered by the product registration device, the checkout system comprising: a program for causing a first computer to function as the product registration device and a second computer to function as the checkout device, The first computer a product registration means for registering product identification information of the purchased product; a gift certificate registration means for registering gift certificate information including the type and amount of the gift certificate; a payment medium printing and issuing means for issuing a payment medium on which a code capable of identifying the product identification information registered by the product registration means and the gift certificate information registered by the gift certificate registration means is printed so as to be machine-readable by the payment device; It functions as The second computer reading means for reading the code printed on the settlement medium; a settlement means for performing a settlement process based on the commodity identification information and the coupon information identified from the code read by the reading means; a receipt printing and issuing means for printing and issuing a receipt after the settlement means has completed the settlement; It functions as The payment medium printing and issuing means The type and amount of the gift certificate included in the gift certificate information registered by the gift certificate registration means are further printed on the settlement medium; The receipt printing and issuing means A program that prints on the receipt a purchase total based on the product identification information identified from the code read by the reading means, and a gift certificate total based on the gift certificate information identified from the code read by the reading means.

Images