Settlement processor, and information processing program

Abstract

To provide a technology that can support the proper use of cash vouchers.SOLUTION: A settlement processor includes an acquisition unit, a determination unit, and a settlement processing unit. The acquisition unit acquires cash voucher information from a cash voucher via a scanner. The determination unit determines whether the cash voucher can be used on the basis of the cash voucher information acquired by the acquisition unit. The settlement processing unit, if the cash voucher is usable, performs settlement processing based on the cash voucher information, on the basis of the cash voucher being inserted into a cash voucher insertion unit within a predetermined time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a payment processing device and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, as commercial facilities such as supermarkets have been reducing the number of staff or workers, they have begun to use self-service POS (Point of Sales) systems, which allow customers to complete transactions from product registration to payment without the intervention of store staff, or semi-self-service POS systems, in which store staff register products and customers pay.

[0003] In such a system, when a customer uses a gift certificate, coupon, or other voucher, a store clerk must be present to collect the voucher and determine whether or not the voucher can be used. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-136760 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for technology that can help customers use gift certificates appropriately without the need for store clerk intervention.

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a payment processing device and an information processing program that can support the proper use of vouchers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the payment processing device includes an acquisition unit, a determination unit, and a payment processing unit. The acquisition unit acquires voucher information of the voucher via a scanner. The determination unit determines whether the voucher can be used based on the voucher information acquired by the acquisition unit. If the voucher can be used, the payment processing unit performs payment processing based on the voucher information based on the fact that the voucher has been inserted into the voucher insertion unit within a predetermined time. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a store system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the input device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a procedure for information processing by the store system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the procedure of information processing by the store system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing yet another example of the procedure of information processing by the store system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display example of the POS terminal according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of each part in each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may be changed as appropriate. Also, for the sake of explanation, each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may omit components.

[0010] The following description will be given using an example of a store that sells products. The store is assumed to be a physical store. Products include not only tangible products but also non-tangible products such as services or tickets, or intangible products. Services are services provided to customers. The store may be a store that primarily sells tangible products, or a store that primarily sells the provision of services. For example, a store that primarily sells tangible products includes, but is not limited to, a supermarket or a home improvement store. For example, a store that primarily sells the provision of services includes, but is not limited to, a restaurant or a sports gym.

[0011] A product transaction is the transfer of costs from a customer to a store in connection with the sale of a product by the store. From the store's perspective, the transaction involves the sale of a product. From the customer's perspective, the transaction involves the purchase of a product.

[0012] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a store system S. Store system S is a system in store X.

[0013] The store system S comprises a cash voucher insertion device 1, a POS terminal 2, a store server 3, and a router 4. The cash voucher insertion device 1 is connected to the POS terminal 2 via a wired or wireless connection that allows direct communication. The POS terminal 2, the store server 3, and the router 4 are connected to each other via a network NA so that they can communicate with each other. For example, the network NA is a LAN (Local Area Network). The network NA may include a wireless network or a wired network.

[0014] The store system S is communicatively connected to the headquarters server 5 via a network NB. The network NB is made up of one or more networks selected from various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN. The one or more networks may include a wireless network or a wired network.

[0015] The store system S may also refer to a system including at least two of the following devices: a cash voucher insertion device 1, a POS terminal 2, a store server 3, and a router 4. The term "device" includes electronic devices.

[0016] While FIG. 1 shows an example in which the store system S has one voucher insertion device 1, the store system S may have multiple insertion devices including the voucher insertion device 1. The configuration of the multiple insertion devices may be the same as that of the voucher insertion device 1. Although FIG. 1 shows an example in which the store system S has one POS terminal 2, the store system S may have multiple POS terminals including the POS terminal 2. The configuration of the multiple POS terminals may be the same as that of the POS terminal 2. The store system S is an example of an information processing system. Here, an example in which the voucher insertion device 1 and the POS terminal 2 have a one-to-one relationship will be described.

[0017] The gift certificate insertion device 1 is a device into which a user inserts gift certificates. Gift certificates include those that can be used in place of cash when making a payment, those that apply discounts, etc. Gift certificates include gift certificates, coupons, complimentary coupons, shopping vouchers, etc. Gift certificates include beer coupons, rice coupons, gift certificates, etc. Coupons include exchange coupons, discount coupons, special offer coupons, etc. issued by stores. Complimentary coupons include complimentary coupons issued by administrative agencies such as local governments to apply various preferential treatment systems. Gift certificates include gift certificates with expiration dates. Gift certificates include gift certificates whose usability varies depending on the store. Gift certificates may have a form that has a two-dimensional code such as a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark) printed on its surface, for example.

[0018] The cash voucher insertion device 1 includes an insertion slot capable of accepting cash vouchers, a transport unit capable of transporting cash vouchers, and a sensor. The sensor detects various pieces of information.

[0019] The cash voucher insertion device 1 can be operated by a user who performs payment processing at the POS terminal 2. The user who performs payment processing at the POS terminal 2 is primarily a customer. In the following description, customer may be read as a user, consumer, or member. The cash voucher insertion device 1 is an example of a cash voucher insertion unit.

[0020] The POS terminal 2 is a device that processes transactions at store X. For example, the POS terminal 2 has a product registration function. The POS terminal 2 uses the product registration function to perform registration processing for one or more products that are the subject of a transaction. Product registration processing refers to processing for registering products that are the subject of a transaction. Product registration processing is also referred to as product registration. Products that are the subject of a transaction are also referred to as trading products. Product registration refers to registering a product as a trading product. For example, product registration includes adding data related to the trading product to a product registration list. Data related to the trading product is also referred to as trading product data. The product registration list may include trading product data for each trading product for one transaction. The trading product data is data about the details of the trading product. The trading product data may include a product code of the trading product. The product code of the trading product is identification information that can uniquely identify the trading product. The trading product data may include the price of the trading product. The price of the trading product is the price per unit of the trading product. The trading product data may include the number of trading products. The number of trading products is the number of trading products included in one transaction.

[0021] For example, the product registration list is stored in a transaction management server that manages each transaction. The transaction management server may be the store server 3, the headquarters server 5, or a different server. The product registration list is also referred to as transaction data.

[0022] The POS terminal 2 has a payment function. The POS terminal 2 uses the payment function to process the payment of a transaction based on the product registration list. The payment process refers to processing the payment of a transaction. Payment is payment for a transaction. Payment includes accounting. Completion of payment by the POS terminal 2 includes the conclusion of the transaction. The POS terminal 2 processes the payment based on information related to the payment method.

[0023] The POS terminal 2 may be a device that does not have a registration function but has a payment function. In this case, the POS terminal 2 reads a barcode or two-dimensional code (hereinafter referred to as a code) on which transaction data indicating one transaction is recorded, or a paper medium on which a barcode or two-dimensional code on which identification information indicating the transaction data is recorded is printed. The POS terminal 2 performs payment processing for one transaction based on the read code. Instead of a paper medium, the POS terminal 2 may also read a code electronically displayed on the screen of a mobile terminal held by the customer, and perform payment processing for one transaction based on the read code.

[0024] The information on the payment method includes information such as the payment method and payment type. The payment method includes offline payment and online payment. Offline payment is payment that does not require the POS terminal 2 to cooperate with other devices via the network NB. For example, offline payment is payment using cash, gift certificates, etc. Online payment is payment that the POS terminal 2 executes in cooperation with other devices via the network NB. For example, online payment is credit card payment, prepaid card payment, electronic money payment, debit card payment, code payment, point payment, etc.

[0025] The POS terminal 2 can be operated by a user of the POS terminal 2. The user of the POS terminal 2 is mainly a customer. The user of the POS terminal 2 may be the same user as the user of the cash voucher insertion device 1, or may be a different user. The POS terminal 2 is an example of a payment processing device.

[0026] The store server 3 is a device capable of communicating with the POS terminal 2 via the network NA. If the store system S includes multiple POS terminals, the store server 3 is a device capable of communicating with the multiple POS terminals including the POS terminal 2 via the network NA. The store server 3 may be a server used in a cloud service.

[0027] The store server 3 is a device that stores information necessary for transactions at store X. The store server 3 can store a product master. The product master data includes various information about each product, such as the product code, price, and product name.

[0028] The store server 3 may store a gift certificate information master. The gift certificate information master includes information regarding the use of gift certificates linked to gift certificate codes. Information regarding the use of gift certificates includes detailed gift certificate information, information indicating whether the gift certificate can be used at a store, expiration date, and usage restrictions. Detailed gift certificate information includes information such as the gift certificate amount, discount amount, discount rate, number of points awarded, and point award rate. Whether the gift certificate can be used at a store may include information on stores where the gift certificate can be used. Usage restrictions may include information such as the timing at which the gift certificate can be used. The timing at which the gift certificate can be used includes, for example, the purchase of a specific product, the amount of the transaction product that can be used, and the number of transaction products that can be used. Information regarding the use of gift certificates may be different information for each type of gift certificate.

[0029] The store server 3 stores user information of customers of store X. The store server 3 may also store user information of customers of multiple other stores. The user information indicates the customer's membership information. The membership information includes, for example, a member ID, a member code, attribute data, transaction data, etc.

[0030] The router 4 is a device that enables the store system S to communicate with other devices via the network NB. For example, the router 4 enables the store system S to communicate with the headquarters server 5 via the network NB.

[0031] The headquarters server 5 is a server of the operator of store X. The headquarters server 5 is a device capable of communicating with the store system S via the network NB. If the operator operates multiple stores including store X, the headquarters server 5 is a device capable of communicating with multiple store systems including the store system S via the network NB. The headquarters server 5 may be a server used in a cloud service.

[0032] The headquarters server 5 is a device that stores various types of information. For example, the headquarters server 5 may store a product master. The headquarters server 5 may also store user information.

[0033] An example of the configuration of the voucher insertion device 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the gift certificate insertion device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0034] The cash voucher deposit device 1 is an electronic device that includes a processing circuit 11, a main memory 12, an input / output interface 13, and a sensor 14. Each part that makes up the cash voucher deposit device 1 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 2, the interface is written as "I / F".

[0035] The processing circuit 11 corresponds to the central part of the cash voucher depositing device 1. The processing circuit 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the cash voucher depositing device 1. The processing circuit 11 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes based on multiple functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. The processing circuit 11 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 12 into the main memory 12. The program is a program that can cause the processing circuit 11 to execute processes by each means described below. The processing circuit 11 executes the program loaded into the main memory 12, thereby enabling various processes to be performed.

[0036] The main memory 12 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the cash voucher deposit device 1. The main memory 12 is an element that constitutes the computer of the cash voucher deposit device 1. The main memory 12 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores an operating system or program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 12 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten appropriately by the processing circuit 11. For example, the main memory 12 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 12 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0037] The input / output interface 13 is an interface for connecting the cash voucher deposit device 1 to an external device. The input / output interface 13 includes a connector for a wired cable. For example, the input / output interface 13 is an interface for connecting the cash voucher deposit device 1 to the POS terminal 2.

[0038] The sensor 14 is a device that detects when a voucher is inserted into the insertion slot. The sensor 14 is a device that reads various code symbols and acquires information from the code symbols. For example, the code symbol is a barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. The code symbol may include a code symbol of a voucher that records voucher information. The code symbol of a voucher is an image attached to the voucher. The voucher information includes information such as the voucher code, expiration date, and type. The voucher code is voucher identification information that can uniquely identify the voucher. The type indicates the type of voucher. The sensor 14 may be a scanner, reader, CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera, etc.

[0039] The hardware configuration of the cash voucher depositing device 1 is not limited to the above configuration. The cash voucher depositing device 1 allows the above components to be omitted or changed, and new components to be added, as appropriate.

[0040] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the POS terminal 2. As shown in FIG.

[0041] The POS terminal 2 includes a processing circuit 20, a main memory 21, an auxiliary storage device 22, a change machine interface 23, a communication interface 24, a scanner 25, an input device 26, a display device 27, a printing device 28, a reader 29, a camera 30, and an input / output interface 31. The main memory 21, the auxiliary storage device 22, the change machine interface 23, the communication interface 24, the scanner 25, the input device 26, the display device 27, the printing device 28, the reader 29, the camera 30, and the input / output interface 31 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Fig. 3, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0042] The processing circuit 20 corresponds to the central part of the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned processing circuit 11. The processing circuit 20 performs various operations by executing programs that are pre-stored in the main memory 21 or the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0043] The main memory 21 includes elements corresponding to the main storage portion of the POS terminal 2. The main memory 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 2. The main memory 21 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned main memory 12. The main memory 21 stores programs.

[0044] The auxiliary storage device 22 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the POS terminal 2. The auxiliary storage device 22 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 2. The auxiliary storage device 22 includes one or more storage devices. The storage devices may be, but are not limited to, an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 22 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 20 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 20.

[0045] The auxiliary memory device 22 stores a product registration list. The data in the product registration list is updated by adding, updating, or deleting product registration information. The product registration information includes information about the transaction product for each transaction product. The data in the product registration list includes all or part of the transaction product's product code, transaction product name, transaction product price, transaction product number, transaction product amount, and transaction product type. The product registration information may include information other than these. The product registration information may include the transaction total amount. The product registration information may include the payment amount. The payment amount is the amount paid for the transaction using the payment method selected by the customer.

[0046] The auxiliary storage device 22 can store a gift certificate information master. The gift certificate information master can be updated as needed based on updates to the gift certificate information master stored in the store server 3.

[0047] The auxiliary storage device 22 can store a product master. The product master can be updated as needed based on updates to the product master stored in the store server 3.

[0048] The change machine interface 23 inputs and outputs data signals to and from the automatic change machine. For example, the change machine interface 23 receives inserted amount data from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 23 outputs change amount data to the automatic change machine. The automatic change machine dispenses banknotes or coins equivalent to the change amount according to the change amount data.

[0049] The communication interface 24 includes various interfaces that connect the POS terminal 2 to other devices via a network NA in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. The network NA may include a wireless network or a wired network. Examples of the network NA include a LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark), and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0050] The scanner 25 is a device that reads various code symbols and acquires information from the code symbols. The code symbols may include the code symbols of products that have product codes recorded thereon. The code symbols of products are images attached to the products.

[0051] The input device 26 is a device that can input information to the POS terminal 2. For example, the input device 26 may include a keyboard. The input device 26 may form a touch panel together with the display device 27.

[0052] The display device 27 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 20. For example, the display device 27 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (Electro Luminescence) display, etc. The display device 27 is an example of a display unit.

[0053] The printing device 28 is a device for issuing transaction details by printing on a medium. For example, the medium is paper. For example, the printing device 28 is a thermal printer or an inkjet printer. The transaction details are a medium that shows the details of the transaction. Although the transaction details are described as being a receipt, they may also be a receipt with a space for entering the recipient's name.

[0054] For example, the transaction details include all or part of information about the store where the transaction took place, information about the transaction date and time, and product registration information. The transaction details may also include information other than these. For example, the information about the store where the transaction took place includes the name of the store. The information about the store where the transaction took place may also include information other than this information. For example, the information about the transaction date and time includes the transaction date and time. The information about the transaction date and time may also include information other than this information.

[0055] The reader 29 is a device that reads card data recorded on a card medium. The reader 29 may include a contact reader that reads card data recorded on a magnetic stripe of the card medium. The reader 29 may include a contactless reader that reads card data recorded on an IC (Integrated Circuit) tag of the card medium. The IC tag includes an IC chip and an antenna. The reader 29 may include a writer function that records card data on the card medium.

[0056] The camera 30 is a device that has a photographing function and acquires photographed image data by photographing.

[0057] The input / output interface 31 is an interface for connecting the POS terminal 2 to an external device. The input / output interface 31 includes a connector for a wired cable. For example, the input / output interface 31 is an interface for connecting the POS terminal 2 to the cash voucher insertion device 1.

[0058] The hardware configuration of the POS terminal 2 is not limited to the above configuration, and the POS terminal 2 allows the above components to be omitted or changed, and new components to be added, as appropriate.

[0059] Each unit realized by the processing circuit 20 will be described. The processing circuit 20 realizes a product registration processing unit 201, an acquisition unit 202, a determination unit 203, a payment processing unit 204, an input control unit 205, and a display processing unit 206. Each means realized by the processing circuit 20 can also be referred to as each unit or each function. Each means realized by the processing circuit 20 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processing circuit 20 and main memory 21.

[0060] The product registration processing unit 201 processes the registration of one or more trading products. The product registration processing unit 201 references the product master stored in the auxiliary storage device 22 and acquires trading product data for the trading product corresponding to the product code. The trading product data includes data such as the product code, product name, and product price. The product registration processing unit 201 may also reference the product master stored in the store server 3 and acquire trading product data for the product corresponding to the product code. The product registration processing unit 201 saves the trading product data in the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0061] The acquisition unit 202 acquires the voucher information of the voucher via the scanner 25. The acquisition unit 202 acquires the voucher information recorded in the code symbol of the voucher read by the scanner 25. The acquisition unit 202 acquires the detection result by the sensor of the voucher depositing device 1 from the voucher depositing device 1 via the input / output interface 31. The acquisition unit 202 acquires information indicating that a voucher has been detected from the voucher depositing device 1 via the input / output interface 31. The acquisition unit 202 acquires the voucher information from the voucher depositing device 1 via the input / output interface 31.

[0062] The determination unit 203 determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information acquired by the acquisition unit 202. The determination unit 203 may determine whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information by referring to the coupon information master stored in the auxiliary storage device 22. The determination unit 203 determines whether the coupon information of the coupon read via the scanner 25 matches the coupon information of the coupon acquired via the sensor 14 of the coupon insertion device 1. The determination unit 203 may compare the coupon code of the coupon read via the scanner 25 with the coupon code of the coupon read via the sensor 14. The determination unit 203 may determine whether the coupon information matches or does not match based on the comparison result of the coupon codes. The determination unit 203 may also determine whether the coupon can be used by referring to the coupon information master stored in the store server 3.

[0063] The payment processing unit 204 performs payment processing for the transaction. Based on the determination result by the determination unit 203, the payment processing unit 204 performs payment processing based on the gift certificate information. If the gift certificate is usable, the payment processing unit 204 applies the amount, discount amount, or discount rate indicated by the gift certificate detail information to the total amount. If the gift certificate is not usable, the payment processing unit 204 performs payment processing without applying the gift certificate information.

[0064] The insertion control unit 205 outputs instructions to control the cash certificate insertion device 1 via the input / output interface 31 to the cash certificate insertion device 1. The instructions include an instruction to activate the sensor 14 of the cash certificate insertion device 1. The instructions include an instruction to open the insertion slot of the cash certificate insertion device 1. The instructions include an instruction to eject a cash certificate from the cash certificate insertion device 1.

[0065] The display processing unit 206 displays the image on the display device 27 .

[0066] (Example of operation) The processing of the store system S will be described. In the following description, which mainly focuses on the cash voucher insertion device 1, the cash voucher insertion device 1 may be read as the processing circuit 11. Similarly, in the following description, which mainly focuses on the POS terminal 2, the POS terminal 2 may be read as the processing circuit 20. The processing procedures described below are merely examples, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, steps may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate depending on the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for information processing by the store system S according to the embodiment. In the following process, it is assumed that a user makes a purchase at store X and performs product registration and payment processes at the POS terminal 2. After completing the product registration process, the user issues a payment instruction by operating a payment button or the like on the product registration image displayed on the display device 27. The payment button is an operator that can input an instruction to perform payment processing. For example, the POS terminal 2 displays a payment method selection image on the display device 27 based on the payment instruction.

[0067] The user issues an instruction to use a gift certificate by operating a gift certificate use button or the like included in the payment method selection image. The gift certificate use button is an operator that can input an instruction to use a gift certificate. The gift certificate use button may include, for example, a selection button for selecting the type of gift certificate to be used. The POS terminal 2 may acquire information indicating the type of gift certificate to be used by the user. The user holds the code symbol attached to the gift certificate over the scanner 25. The POS terminal 2 reads the code symbol on the gift certificate via the scanner 25. For example, the scanner 25 outputs the code symbol data to the processing circuit 20.

[0068] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 acquires the voucher information of the voucher (ACT1). The processing of ACT1 may be processing by the acquisition unit 202. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 20 acquires the voucher information recorded in the code symbol of the voucher. The processing circuit 20 acquires, for example, the voucher code of the voucher. The processing circuit 20 may acquire information such as the expiration date and type of the voucher. The processing circuit 20 may refer to the voucher information master stored in the auxiliary storage device 22 and acquire information regarding the use of the voucher corresponding to the voucher code. The processing circuit 20 saves the voucher information in the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0069] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information (ACT2). The processing of ACT2 may be performed by the determination unit 203. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 20 determines whether the coupon can be used based on the expiration date of the coupon. The processing circuit 20 may also determine whether the coupon can be used based on information related to the use of the coupon. For example, the processing circuit 20 may determine whether the coupon can be used based on information indicating whether the coupon can be used at a store. The processing circuit 20 may also determine whether the coupon can be used based on usage restrictions. The processing circuit 20 may compare information indicating the type of coupon selected by the user with information indicating the type of coupon included in the coupon information to determine whether the coupon can be used. For example, the processing circuit 20 may determine that the coupon can be used when the information indicating the type of coupon selected by the user matches the information indicating the type of coupon included in the coupon information.

[0070] If it is determined that the voucher can be used (ACT2: YES), the processing transitions from ACT2 to ACT4. The determination that the voucher can be used indicates that the judgment result is usable. Based on the determination that the voucher can be used, the processing circuit 20 outputs a notification indicating that the voucher can be used to the voucher depositing device 1. The output of the notification may be processed by the deposit control unit 205. The notification may include an instruction to activate the sensor 14 of the voucher depositing device 1. The notification may include an instruction to open the deposit slot of the voucher depositing device 1. Outputting an instruction to activate the sensor 14 of the voucher depositing device 1 is an example of controlling the voucher depositing device 1 to be able to accept vouchers. Outputting an instruction to open the deposit slot of the voucher depositing device 1 is an example of controlling the voucher depositing device 1 to be able to accept vouchers.

[0071] If it is determined that the coupon cannot be used (ACT2: NO), the process transitions from ACT2 to ACT3. The determination that the coupon cannot be used indicates that the determination result is that the coupon cannot be used.

[0072] The processing circuit 20 displays an error notification on the display device 27 based on the determination that the coupon cannot be used (ACT3). The processing of ACT3 may be performed by the display processing unit 206. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 20 generates an error image indicating that the coupon cannot be used. The processing circuit 20 displays the error image on the display device 27. The error image includes, for example, a message such as "This coupon cannot be used." The error notification may be at least one of text data, image data, audio data, and video data. The error notification may include a store clerk call message. The store clerk call message includes, for example, a message such as "A store clerk is being called." The processing circuit 20 may output the error notification to a store clerk terminal used by the store clerk.

[0073] In this case, the processing circuit 20 performs the payment process based on the fact that the gift certificate cannot be used. The payment process may be performed by the payment processing unit 204. The processing circuit 20 performs the payment process without applying the gift certificate information.

[0074] The processing circuit 11 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 receives a notification from the POS terminal 2 indicating that the cash certificate is available for use. Based on the notification, the processing circuit 11 may activate the sensor 14 of the cash certificate insertion device 1. Based on the notification, the processing circuit 11 may open the insertion slot of the cash certificate insertion device 1. Based on the notification, the processing circuit 11 may start the counting operation of a timer installed in the cash certificate insertion device 1. The timer is a device for measuring the elapsed time since the user read the cash certificate with the scanner 25.

[0075] The processing circuit 11 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 determines whether the sensor 14 has detected the insertion of a cash certificate (ACT4). If it is determined that the insertion of a cash certificate has been detected (ACT4: YES), the processing transitions from ACT4 to ACT6. Based on the detection of the insertion of a cash certificate, the processing circuit 11 outputs information indicating the detection result to the POS terminal 2. For example, the processing circuit 11 outputs information indicating that a cash certificate has been inserted to the POS terminal 2. Note that the processing circuit 11 may output the cash certificate information to the POS terminal 2 when the code symbol of the cash certificate is read by the sensor 14.

[0076] If it is determined that the insertion of a cash voucher has not been detected (ACT4: NO), the process transitions from ACT4 to ACT5.

[0077] The processing circuit 11 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed (ACT5). The predetermined time can be set appropriately by an administrator or the like. The predetermined time is, for example, 10 seconds or 20 seconds. The processing circuit 11 may, for example, determine whether the value of the timer is a value indicating the predetermined time. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (ACT5: YES), the processing transitions from ACT5 to ACT6. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (ACT5: NO), the processing returns from ACT5 to ACT4. The processing circuit 11 continues to detect the insertion of a cash certificate until the predetermined time has elapsed. The processing circuit 11 determines whether a cash certificate has been inserted into the cash certificate insertion device 1 within the predetermined time. If the insertion of a cash certificate is not detected and the predetermined time has elapsed, the processing circuit 11 outputs information indicating that a cash certificate has not been inserted to the POS terminal 2 as a detection result.

[0078] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 performs payment processing based on the detection result (ACT6). The processing of ACT6 may be processing by the payment processing unit 204. In ACT6, for example, if the detection result indicates that insertion of a gift certificate has been detected, the processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the gift certificate information. In this example, the detection of insertion of a gift certificate indicates that a gift certificate has been inserted into the gift certificate insertion device 1 within a predetermined time period if the gift certificate is usable. The processing circuit 20 applies the amount, discount amount, or discount rate indicated by the gift certificate detail information to the total amount. The processing circuit 20 may recalculate the total amount applying the gift certificate detail information. The processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the payment method selected by the user.

[0079] When the code symbol of the gift certificate is read by the sensor 14, the processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 may determine in ACT6 whether the gift certificate can be used based on the gift certificate information.

[0080] The cash certificate depositing device 1 may activate the sensor 14 of the cash certificate depositing device 1 based on receiving an instruction to use a cash certificate from the POS terminal 2. The cash certificate depositing device 1 may open the deposit slot of the cash certificate depositing device 1 based on receiving an instruction to use a cash certificate from the POS terminal 2. The cash certificate depositing device 1 may start the counting operation of a timer based on receiving an instruction to use a cash certificate from the POS terminal 2.

[0081] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 may determine whether a predetermined time has elapsed using a timer installed in the POS terminal 2. For example, the processing circuit 20 may start the timer counting operation based on the determination in ACT2 that the gift certificate can be used. The processing circuit 20 may determine whether a detection result indicating that a gift certificate has been inserted from the gift certificate insertion device 1 has been obtained before the predetermined time has elapsed based on the timer. The processing circuit 20 may perform payment processing based on the gift certificate information based on the fact that the gift certificate has been inserted into the gift certificate insertion device 1 within the predetermined time. The processing circuit 20 may start the timer counting operation based on the receipt of an instruction to use the gift certificate.

[0082] According to this example, the POS terminal 2 acquires the coupon information of the coupon via the scanner, determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information, and if the coupon is usable, performs payment processing based on the coupon information based on whether the coupon has been inserted into the coupon insertion device 1 within a predetermined time. The POS terminal 2 does not apply the coupon information unless the coupon is inserted into the coupon insertion device 1 within a predetermined time after the coupon is read via the scanner. This allows the POS terminal 2 to prompt the user to insert the coupon. The POS terminal 2 can apply the coupon information and perform payment processing only if the coupon is inserted into the coupon insertion device 1 within the predetermined time. This allows the POS terminal 2 to reliably collect the coupon and prevent fraudulent use, such as multiple use of the coupon. This allows the POS terminal 2 to support the proper use of coupons without the intervention of a store clerk.

[0083] Furthermore, according to this example, the POS terminal 2 can control the cash certificate deposit device 1 to accept a cash certificate when the determination result of whether the cash certificate information is usable indicates that the cash certificate is usable. The POS terminal 2 accepts the insertion of a cash certificate only when the cash certificate read via the scanner is usable, so it is expected that a usable cash certificate will be inserted into the cash certificate deposit device 1. Therefore, the POS terminal 2 can apply the cash certificate information of the usable cash certificate by performing payment processing based on the insertion of the cash certificate. This allows the POS terminal 2 to support the appropriate use of cash certificates without the intervention of a store clerk. Furthermore, the POS terminal 2 can achieve power saving in the cash certificate deposit device 1 by controlling the cash certificate deposit device 1 to accept a cash certificate when the determination result of whether the cash certificate information is usable indicates that the cash certificate is usable.

[0084] FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the procedure of information processing by the store system S according to the embodiment. In the following process, it is assumed that a user makes a purchase at store X and performs product registration and payment processes at the POS terminal 2, similar to the example in Fig. 4. After completing the product registration process, the user issues a payment instruction by operating the payment button or the like on the product registration image displayed on the display device 27. The POS terminal 2 displays a payment method selection image on the display device 27, for example, based on the payment instruction.

[0085] The user issues an instruction to use a gift certificate by operating a gift certificate use button or the like included in the payment method selection image. The POS terminal 2 may acquire information indicating the type of gift certificate used by the user. The user holds the code symbol attached to the gift certificate over the scanner 25. The POS terminal 2 reads the code symbol on the gift certificate via the scanner 25. For example, the scanner 25 outputs the data of the code symbol to the processing circuit 20.

[0086] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 acquires the coupon information of the coupon, similar to ACT1 (ACT11). The processing of ACT11 may be processing by the acquisition unit 202. In ACT11, for example, the processing circuit 20 acquires the coupon information recorded in the code symbol of the coupon. The processing circuit 20 acquires, for example, the coupon code of the coupon. The processing circuit 20 may acquire information such as the expiration date and type of the coupon. The processing circuit 20 may refer to the coupon information master stored in the auxiliary storage device 22 and acquire information regarding the use of the coupon corresponding to the coupon code. The processing circuit 20 saves the coupon information in the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0087] As in ACT2, the processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 determines whether the voucher can be used based on the voucher information (ACT12). The processing of ACT12 may be performed by the determination unit 203. In ACT12, for example, the processing circuit 20 determines whether the voucher can be used based on the expiration date of the voucher. The processing circuit 20 may also determine whether the voucher can be used based on information related to the use of the voucher. For example, the processing circuit 20 may determine whether the voucher can be used based on information indicating whether it can be used at a store. The processing circuit 20 may also determine whether the voucher can be used based on usage restrictions. The processing circuit 20 may also determine whether the voucher can be used by comparing information indicating the type of voucher selected by the user with information indicating the type of voucher included in the voucher information.

[0088] If it is determined that the voucher can be used (ACT12: YES), the process transitions from ACT12 to ACT13. Based on the determination that the voucher can be used, the processing circuit 20 outputs a notification indicating that the voucher can be used to the voucher deposit device 1. The output of the notification may be processed by the deposit control unit 205. The notification may include an instruction to activate the sensor 14 of the voucher deposit device 1. The notification may include an instruction to open the deposit slot of the voucher deposit device 1.

[0089] If it is determined that the coupon is unusable (ACT12: NO), the process transitions from ACT12 to ACT15. In this case, the processing circuit 20 displays an error notification on the display device 27 based on the determination that the coupon is unusable (ACT15). The processing of ACT15 may be performed by the display processing unit 206. In ACT15, for example, the processing circuit 20 generates an error image indicating that the coupon is unusable. The processing circuit 20 displays the error image on the display device 27. The error image includes, for example, a message such as "This coupon cannot be used." The error notification may be at least one of text data, image data, audio data, and video data. In this case, the processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the fact that the coupon is unusable. The payment processing may be performed by the payment processing unit 204. The processing circuit 20 performs payment processing without applying the coupon information. The error notification may include a store clerk call message. The processing circuit 20 may output the error notification to a store clerk terminal or the like used by the store clerk.

[0090] The processing circuit 11 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 receives a notification from the POS terminal 2 indicating that the cash certificate is available for use. The processing circuit 11 may activate the sensor 14 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 based on the notification. The processing circuit 11 may open the insertion slot of the cash certificate insertion device 1 based on the notification. The cash certificate insertion device 1 accepts the cash certificate inserted through the insertion slot. The cash certificate insertion device 1 may transport the cash certificate into the cash certificate insertion device 1 by a transport unit. The cash certificate insertion device 1 reads the code symbol of the cash certificate via the sensor 14. For example, the sensor 14 outputs the code symbol data to the processing circuit 11.

[0091] The processing circuit 11 of the gift certificate insertion device 1 acquires gift certificate information of the gift certificate (ACT13). In ACT13, for example, the processing circuit 11 acquires the gift certificate information recorded in the code symbol of the gift certificate. The processing circuit 11 acquires, for example, the gift certificate code of the gift certificate. The processing circuit 11 may also acquire information such as the expiration date and type of the gift certificate. The processing circuit 11 outputs the acquired gift certificate information to the POS terminal 2.

[0092] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 acquires the voucher information. The processing circuit 20 determines whether the voucher information acquired via the scanner 25 matches the voucher information of the voucher acquired via the sensor 14 (ACT14). The processing of ACT14 may be performed by the determination unit 203. In ACT14, for example, the processing circuit 20 compares the voucher information stored in the auxiliary storage device 22 with the voucher information acquired from the voucher deposit device 1. The processing circuit 20 may also compare the voucher code stored in the auxiliary storage device 22 with the voucher code acquired from the voucher deposit device 1.

[0093] If the voucher information acquired via the scanner 25 matches the voucher information of the voucher acquired via the sensor 14 (ACT14: YES), the process transitions from ACT14 to ACT17. In this case, the processing circuit 20 outputs a determination result indicating a match to the voucher insertion device 1.

[0094] If the voucher information acquired via the scanner 25 does not match the voucher information of the voucher acquired via the sensor 14 (ACT14: NO), the process transitions from ACT14 to ACT15. In this case, the processing circuit 20 outputs a determination result indicating a mismatch to the voucher deposit device 1. The determination result may include an instruction to eject the voucher. Outputting the instruction to eject the voucher may be a process performed by the deposit control unit 205. Outputting an instruction to eject the voucher is an example of controlling the voucher deposit device 1 to eject the voucher inserted therein.

[0095] The processing circuit 20 displays an error notification on the display device 27 based on the discrepancy between the voucher information acquired via the scanner 25 and the voucher information of the voucher acquired via the sensor 14 (ACT 15). For example, the processing circuit 20 displays an error image indicating that the voucher cannot be used on the display device 27. The error image includes, for example, a message such as "This voucher cannot be used." In this case, the processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the fact that the voucher cannot be used. The payment processing may be performed by the payment processing unit 204. The processing circuit 20 performs payment processing without applying the voucher information. The error notification may include a store clerk call message. The processing circuit 20 may output the error notification to a store clerk terminal or the like used by the store clerk.

[0096] The processing circuit 11 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 ejects the cash certificate from the insertion slot based on the determination result indicating no match obtained from the POS terminal 2 (ACT16). In ACT16, for example, the processing circuit 11 ejects the cash certificate from the insertion slot based on the determination result. The processing circuit 11 may also eject the cash certificate from the insertion slot based on an instruction to eject the cash certificate.

[0097] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 performs payment processing based on the determination result, similarly to ACT6 (ACT17). The processing of ACT17 may be processing by the payment processing unit 204. In ACT17, for example, if the determination result indicates a match, the processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the gift certificate information. In this example, a match indicates that, when a gift certificate is usable, the gift certificate information acquired via the scanner 25 matches the gift certificate information of the gift certificate acquired via the sensor 14. The processing circuit 20 applies the amount, discount amount, or discount rate indicated by the gift certificate detail information to the total amount. The processing circuit 20 may recalculate the total amount applying the gift certificate detail information. The processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the payment method selected by the user.

[0098] The cash certificate insertion device 1 may activate the sensor 14 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 based on receiving an instruction to use a cash certificate from the POS terminal 2. The cash certificate insertion device 1 may open the insertion slot of the cash certificate insertion device 1 based on receiving an instruction to use a cash certificate from the POS terminal 2.

[0099] According to this example, the POS terminal 2 acquires the coupon information of the coupon via the scanner, determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information, and if the coupon can be used, performs payment processing based on the coupon information based on a match between the coupon information acquired via the scanner and the coupon information of the coupon acquired via the sensor installed in the coupon deposit device 1. The POS terminal 2 does not apply the coupon information if the coupon information acquired via the scanner does not match the coupon information of the coupon inserted into the coupon deposit device 1. Therefore, the POS terminal 2 can prompt the user to insert the same coupon as the coupon read by the scanner. The POS terminal 2 can apply the coupon information and perform payment processing only if the coupon information acquired via the scanner matches the coupon information of the coupon inserted into the coupon deposit device 1. Therefore, the POS terminal 2 can prevent fraudulent use, such as inserting a coupon different from the one read by the scanner. This allows the POS terminal 2 to support the proper use of coupons without the intervention of a store clerk.

[0100] Furthermore, according to this example, the POS terminal 2 can control the cash certificate depositing device 1 to accept a cash certificate when the determination result of whether the cash certificate information is usable indicates that the cash certificate is usable. The POS terminal 2 accepts the insertion of a cash certificate only when the cash certificate read via the scanner is usable, so it is expected that a usable cash certificate will be inserted into the cash certificate depositing device 1. Therefore, the POS terminal 2 can apply the cash certificate information of a usable cash certificate by performing payment processing based on the fact that the cash certificate read via the scanner is the same as the cash certificate inserted into the cash certificate depositing device 1. This allows the POS terminal 2 to support the appropriate use of cash certificates without the intervention of a store clerk. Furthermore, the POS terminal 2 can achieve power saving in the cash certificate depositing device 1 by controlling the cash certificate depositing device 1 to accept a cash certificate when the determination result of whether the cash certificate information is usable indicates that the cash certificate is usable.

[0101] Furthermore, according to this example, if the coupon information acquired via the scanner does not match the coupon information of the coupon acquired via the sensor, the POS terminal 2 can control the coupon to be ejected from the coupon insertion device 1. Therefore, the POS terminal 2 can prevent the application of coupon information of a coupon different from the coupon whose usability has been determined. This allows the POS terminal 2 to prevent fraudulent use of coupons and support the proper use of coupons.

[0102] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing yet another example of the procedure of information processing by the store system S according to the embodiment. In the following process, it is assumed that a user makes a purchase at store X and performs product registration and payment processes at the POS terminal 2, similar to the example in Fig. 4. After completing the product registration process, the user issues a payment instruction by operating the payment button or the like on the product registration image displayed on the display device 27. The POS terminal 2 displays a payment method selection image on the display device 27, for example, based on the payment instruction.

[0103] The user issues an instruction to use a gift certificate by operating a gift certificate use button or the like included in the payment method selection image. The POS terminal 2 may acquire information indicating the type of gift certificate used by the user. The user inserts a gift certificate into the gift certificate insertion device 1. The gift certificate insertion device 1 accepts gift certificates inserted through an insertion slot. The gift certificate insertion device 1 may transport the gift certificate into the interior of the gift certificate insertion device 1 by a transport unit. The gift certificate insertion device 1 reads the code symbol of the gift certificate via the sensor 14. For example, the sensor 14 outputs the code symbol data to the processing circuit 11.

[0104] The POS terminal 2 may activate the sensor 14 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 based on receiving an instruction to use a cash certificate from the POS terminal 2. The cash certificate insertion device 1 may open the insertion slot of the cash certificate insertion device 1 based on receiving an instruction to use a cash certificate from the POS terminal 2.

[0105] The processing circuit 11 of the gift certificate insertion device 1 acquires gift certificate information of the gift certificate (ACT21). In ACT21, for example, the processing circuit 11 acquires the gift certificate information recorded in the code symbol of the gift certificate. The processing circuit 11 acquires, for example, the gift certificate code of the gift certificate. The processing circuit 11 may also acquire information such as the expiration date and type of the gift certificate. The processing circuit 11 outputs the acquired gift certificate information to the POS terminal 2.

[0106] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 acquires the voucher information from the voucher insertion device 1. Acquiring the voucher information may be a process performed by the acquisition unit 202. The processing circuit 20 acquires, for example, the voucher code of the voucher. The processing circuit 20 may acquire information such as the expiration date and type of the voucher. The processing circuit 20 may refer to the voucher information master stored in the auxiliary storage device 22 and acquire information regarding the use of the voucher corresponding to the voucher code. The processing circuit 20 saves the voucher information in the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0107] As in ACT2, the processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 determines whether the voucher can be used based on the voucher information (ACT22). The processing of ACT22 may be performed by the determination unit 203. In ACT22, for example, the processing circuit 20 determines whether the voucher can be used based on the expiration date of the voucher. The processing circuit 20 may also determine whether the voucher can be used based on information related to the use of the voucher. For example, the processing circuit 20 may determine whether the voucher can be used based on information indicating whether it can be used at a store. The processing circuit 20 may also determine whether the voucher can be used based on usage restrictions. Note that the processing circuit 20 may compare information indicating the type of voucher selected by the user with information indicating the type of voucher included in the voucher information to determine whether the voucher can be used.

[0108] If it is determined that the coupon is usable (ACT22: YES), the processing transitions from ACT22 to ACT25. Based on the determination that the coupon is usable, the processing circuit 20 may output a determination result indicating that the coupon is usable to the coupon deposit device 1. The determination result may include an instruction to collect the coupon. Outputting an instruction to collect the coupon may be processed by the deposit control unit 205. The coupon deposit device 1 collects the coupon based on the determination result that the coupon is usable. If it is determined that the coupon is not usable (ACT22: NO), the processing transitions from ACT22 to ACT23.

[0109] Based on the determination that the gift certificate is unusable, the processing circuit 20 displays an error notification on the display device 27 (ACT23), similar to ACT3. The processing of ACT23 may be performed by the display processing unit 206. In ACT23, for example, the processing circuit 20 displays an error image indicating that the gift certificate is unusable on the display device 27. The error image includes, for example, a message such as "This gift certificate cannot be used." The error notification may be at least one of text data, image data, audio data, and video data. In this case, the processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the fact that the gift certificate is unusable. The payment processing may be performed by the payment processing unit 204. The processing circuit 20 performs payment processing without applying the gift certificate information. The error notification may include a store clerk call message. The processing circuit 20 may output the error notification to a store clerk terminal used by the store clerk, etc.

[0110] The processing circuit 20 outputs a determination result indicating that the coupon cannot be used to the coupon insertion device 1. The determination result may include an instruction to dispense the coupon. Outputting the instruction to dispense the coupon may be a process performed by the insertion control unit 205.

[0111] The processing circuit 11 of the cash certificate insertion device 1 ejects the cash certificate from the insertion slot based on the determination result indicating that the cash certificate is unusable obtained from the POS terminal 2 (ACT24). In ACT24, for example, the processing circuit 11 ejects the cash certificate from the insertion slot based on the determination result indicating that the cash certificate is unusable. The processing circuit 11 may also eject the cash certificate from the insertion slot based on an instruction to eject the cash certificate.

[0112] The processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 performs payment processing based on the determination result, similar to ACT6 (ACT25). The processing of ACT25 may be performed by the payment processing unit 204. In ACT25, for example, if the determination result indicates that the voucher can be used, the processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the voucher information. The processing circuit 20 applies the amount, discount amount, or discount rate indicated by the voucher detail information to the total amount. The processing circuit 20 may recalculate the total amount applying the voucher detail information. The processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the payment method selected by the user.

[0113] According to this example, the POS terminal 2 acquires the coupon information of the coupon via a sensor installed in the coupon insertion device 1, determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information, and performs payment processing based on the determination result. The user does not need to read the coupon using a scanner or the like connected to the POS terminal 2. The user can use the coupon simply by inserting the coupon into the coupon insertion device 1. The POS terminal 2 can control the coupon insertion device 1 to collect the coupon if the coupon is usable based on the coupon information acquired from the coupon insertion device 1. The POS terminal 2 can control the coupon insertion device 1 to eject the coupon if the coupon is unusable based on the coupon information acquired from the coupon insertion device 1. Therefore, the POS terminal 2 reliably collects the coupon if it is usable, preventing fraudulent use, such as multiple use of the coupon. This allows the POS terminal 2 to support the proper use of coupons without the intervention of a store clerk.

[0114] (Display example) The image displayed on the display device 27 of the POS terminal 2 will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display example of the POS terminal 2 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 shows the error image Ima.

[0115] The error image Ima includes a message Ma indicating that the coupon cannot be used. The message Ma may be, for example, a message such as "This coupon cannot be used." The message Ma is not limited to a text message and may be an icon, sign, symbol, etc. The message Ma may also be a video. The message Ma is an example of an error notification. The message Ma may be displayed as a pop-up on the payment method selection image displayed on the display device 27.

[0116] The error image Ima may include a confirmation button, which is an operator for hiding the image including the message Ma.

[0117] The processing circuitry 20 may output the error notification as sound via an audio output device. The error image Ima may include a message such as "A store clerk is being called." The processing circuitry 20 may output the error notification to a store clerk terminal or the like used by the store clerk.

[0118] (Other embodiments) In the above example, the case where the cash voucher depositing device 1 acquires the cash voucher information based on the code symbol read by the sensor 14 has been described, but this is not limited to this. The cash voucher depositing device 1 may also acquire the cash voucher information based on an image of the cash voucher acquired by the sensor 14, such as a camera. For example, the processing circuit 11 performs character recognition or image recognition using OCR (optical character recognition) processing or the like, based on the data of the image of the cash voucher. The processing circuit 11 may also acquire the cash voucher information as a result of the character recognition or image recognition.

[0119] The information processing device may be realized as a single device, as explained using the cash voucher insertion device 1 as an example, or may be realized as multiple devices with distributed functions. The payment processing device may be realized as a single device, as explained using the POS terminal 2 as an example, or may be realized as multiple devices with distributed functions.

[0120] In the above description, the cash voucher depositing device 1 and the POS terminal 2 are exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. The POS terminal 2 may be capable of realizing at least some of the functions of the cash voucher depositing device 1 of this embodiment.

[0121] In the above description, the cash voucher depositing device 1 has been described as having a processing circuit 11, but this is not limited to this. If the cash voucher depositing device 1 does not have a processing circuit 11, the processing circuit 20 of the POS terminal 2 may be capable of realizing at least some of the functions of the processing circuit 11.

[0122] In the above description, the cash voucher insertion device 1 is described as a device operated by a customer, but is not limited to this. The cash voucher insertion device 1 may also be a device operated by a store clerk. The POS terminal 2 is described as a device operated by a customer, but is not limited to this. The POS terminal 2 may also be a device operated by a store clerk.

[0123] When the functions of the POS terminal 2 are provided to a cloud server, the functions of the POS terminal 2 may be realized by a system including a tablet terminal communicably connected to the cloud server.

[0124] The above-described embodiments may be applied to a method executed by an apparatus, a program that can cause a computer of the apparatus to execute each function, or a recording medium that stores the program.

[0125] Each of the one or more circuits constituting the processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs a part of the multiple processes. The part of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in a single device or may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0126] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in the device according to the embodiment, or in a state where it is not stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is computer-readable.

[0127] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims.

[0128] The above embodiment may be expressed as follows. (1) an acquisition unit that acquires coupon information of a coupon via a scanner; a determination unit that determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information acquired by the acquisition unit; If the coupon is usable, a payment processing unit performs payment processing based on the coupon information when the coupon is inserted into the coupon insertion unit within a predetermined time. A payment processing device comprising: (2) an acquisition unit that acquires the coupon information of the coupon via a scanner; a determination unit that determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information acquired by the acquisition unit; If the voucher is usable, an accounting processing unit performs a settlement process based on the voucher information based on a match between the voucher information and the voucher information of the voucher acquired via a sensor installed in the voucher insertion unit; A payment processing device comprising: (3) A deposit control unit is further provided that controls the cash certificate deposit unit to allow the cash certificate to be accepted when the determination result by the determination unit indicates that the cash certificate can be used. A payment processing device described in (1) or (2). (4) An insertion control unit is further provided that controls the cash voucher inserted into the cash voucher insertion unit so as to be discharged if the cash voucher information acquired via the scanner does not match the cash voucher information of the cash voucher acquired via the sensor. (2) A payment processing device as described above. (5) To the computer: The function of obtaining the coupon information of the coupon via a scanner, A function of determining whether the coupon can be used based on the acquired coupon information; If the coupon is usable, a function of performing a settlement process based on the coupon information when the coupon is inserted into the coupon insertion section within a predetermined time; An information processing program capable of executing the above. (6) To the computer: The function of obtaining the coupon information of the coupon via a scanner, A function of determining whether the coupon can be used based on the acquired coupon information; If the voucher is usable, a function of performing a settlement process based on the voucher information based on a match between the voucher information and the voucher information of the voucher acquired via a sensor installed in the voucher insertion unit; An information processing program capable of executing the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 1...voucher insertion device, 2...POS terminal, 3...store server, 4...router, 5...headquarters server, 11...processing circuit, 12...main memory, 13...input / output interface, 14...sensor, 20...processing circuit, 21...main memory, 22...auxiliary storage device, 23...change machine interface, 24...communication interface, 25...scanner, 26...input device, 27...display device, 28...printing device, 29...reader, 30...camera, 31...input / output interface, 201...product registration processing unit, 202...acquisition unit, 203...determination unit, 204...payment processing unit, 205...insertion control unit, 206...display processing unit, Ima...error image, Ma...message, NA...network, NB...network, S...store system, X...store.

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires coupon information of the coupon via a scanner; a determination unit that determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information acquired by the acquisition unit; If the coupon is usable, a payment processing unit performs payment processing based on the coupon information when the coupon is inserted into the coupon insertion unit within a predetermined time. A payment processing device comprising:

2. an acquisition unit that acquires coupon information of the coupon via a scanner; a determination unit that determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon information acquired by the acquisition unit; If the voucher is usable, an accounting processing unit performs a settlement process based on the voucher information based on a match between the voucher information and the voucher information of the voucher acquired via a sensor installed in the voucher insertion unit; A payment processing device comprising:

3. The device further includes an insertion control unit that controls the voucher insertion unit to allow the voucher to be accepted when the determination result by the determination unit indicates that the voucher can be used. The payment processing device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The device further includes an insertion control unit that controls the device to eject the coupon inserted into the coupon insertion unit when the coupon information acquired through the scanner does not match the coupon information of the coupon acquired through the sensor. The payment processing device according to claim 2 .

5. On the computer, The function of obtaining the coupon information of the coupon via a scanner, A function of determining whether the coupon can be used based on the acquired coupon information; If the coupon is usable, a function of performing a settlement process based on the coupon information when the coupon is inserted into the coupon insertion section within a predetermined time; An information processing program capable of executing the above.

6. On the computer, The function of obtaining the coupon information of the coupon via a scanner, A function of determining whether the coupon can be used based on the acquired coupon information; If the voucher is usable, a function of performing a settlement process based on the voucher information based on a match between the voucher information and the voucher information of the voucher acquired via a sensor installed in the voucher insertion unit; An information processing program capable of executing the above.

Images