Electronic receipt system and information processing device

Abstract

To enable stamping or handwriting operation to electronic receipt information afterward without changing stored electronic receipt information.SOLUTION: An electronic receipt management server includes: receiving means for receiving electronic receipt information related to receipt information; management means for managing the electronic receipt information; stamp information management means for, when the electronic receipt information is related to execution of specific processing, associating identification information of the receipt information subjected to the specific processing with stamp information indicating that the specific process has been executed to manage it; and electronic receipt browsing means for enabling the electronic receipt information associated with a recipient code to browse relative to an information processing device associated with the recipient code. The electronic receipt browsing means enables browsing of target stamp information along with the electronic receipt information when the stamp information is associated with the electronic receipt information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electronic receipt management server and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a system called an electronic receipt, in which a receipt or invoice given to a shopper by a store at the time of payment for a product is electronically transferred to a mobile terminal or the like of the shopper.

[0003] By converting receipts into electronic data in this way, household accounts can be automatically recorded electronically, which is beneficial for shoppers.In addition, by introducing the electronic receipt system, it is possible to reduce the consumption of receipt paper, which is also beneficial for the stores that introduce it.

[0004] Incidentally, conventionally, in retail stores, there are cases where customers add a handwritten signature or stamp to a printed paper receipt, and then use this to carry out some business operations.

[0005] For example, some incentives (gift exchange, parking ticket issuance, etc.) may be given to consumers who meet certain conditions, such as those who purchase a specified product or purchase more than a specified amount. In this case, a stamp indicating that the incentive has been given is added to the printed paper receipt of the customer's copy, which is used to determine whether the right has been exercised in the past.

[0006] In addition, when a product is returned, the product may be crossed out on the printed paper receipt that the customer keeps, and the amount may be corrected by hand before being returned.

[0007] However, if the electronic receipt system is introduced, there is a problem that the existing operations described above will no longer be possible. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an electronic receipt management server, a product sales data processing device, a print control device, and a program that enable stamping or handwriting of electronic receipt information later without changing the stored electronic receipt information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The electronic receipt management server of the embodiment includes: a management means for storing and managing electronic receipt information related to receipt information indicating transaction details of commodities to be settled in a first storage area; a receiving means for receiving information including identification information of any of the electronic receipt information stored in the first storage area and a type of specific process executed for the transaction indicated by the electronic receipt information of the identification information; a stamp information management means for, when the receiving means receives the information, associating the identification information of the electronic receipt information with stamp information indicating the type of specific process, and storing and managing the associated information in a second storage area provided in an area different from the first storage area; and an electronic receipt viewing means for enabling an information processing device associated with a recipient code to view the electronic receipt information associated with the recipient code, and, when the stamp information is associated with the electronic receipt information to be viewed, outputting the stamp information together with the electronic receipt information to enable viewing.

[0010] The electronic receipt management server of the embodiment includes: a management means for storing and managing electronic receipt information related to receipt information indicating transaction details of merchandise to be paid for in a first storage area; a receiving means for receiving information including identification information of any of the electronic receipt information stored in the first storage area and a type of specific processing executed for the transaction indicated by the electronic receipt information of the identification information; and an electronic receipt viewing means for enabling an information processing device associated with a recipient code to view the electronic receipt information associated with the recipient code, and for outputting stamp information indicating the type of the specific processing included in the information together with the transaction details, so as to enable viewing, when the receiving means receives the information including the identification information of the electronic receipt information to be viewed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an electronic receipt system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the POS terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the electronic receipt server. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the electronic receipt management server. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the stamp management table. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of the mobile terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of the electronic receipt processing in the POS terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of receipt information. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of electronic receipt information. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of electronic receipt processing in the POS terminal. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the electronic receipt management process and the information transmission process in the electronic receipt server. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram relating to the electronic receipt management process and information transmission process in the electronic receipt management server. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of the electronic receipt management process and the information transmission process in the electronic receipt management server. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram relating to the electronic receipt receiving process and the electronic receipt viewing process in the mobile terminal. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the flow of the electronic receipt receiving process and the electronic receipt viewing process in the mobile terminal. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of returned goods electronic receipt information displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing screen transitions related to stamp processing in the electronic receipt system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of electronic receipt information displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of electronic receipt information displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of an electronic receipt system according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the electronic receipt system includes a POS (Point of Sales) terminal 1, a store server 2, an electronic receipt server 3, an electronic receipt management server 4, and a mobile terminal 7.

[0014] The POS terminal 1 and the store server 2 are installed in the store P1. The POS terminal 1 and the store server 2 are communicably connected via an in-store network N1 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The POS terminal 1 and the store server 2 can be connected to a network N2 connecting the store P1 and the headquarters P2 via a network device (not shown) such as a router connected to the in-store network N1. Here, the network N2 is, for example, a dedicated line such as the Internet or a VPN (Virtual Private Network).

[0015] The POS terminal 1 is a product sales data processing device that executes product sales data processing. The POS terminal 1 generates receipt information including transaction details of the product to be paid for, and outputs a paper receipt by printing the receipt information using a printer 13 (described later). The POS terminal 1 also converts the data format of the receipt information and outputs (transmits) the electronic receipt information to the electronic receipt server 3 via the network N2. There is no particular restriction on the method of transmitting the electronic receipt information, and general-purpose protocols such as HTTP and HTTPS may be used. There is no particular restriction on the number of POS terminals 1 provided in the store P1, and multiple terminals may be used.

[0016] The store server 2 comprehensively manages the merchandise sales data processing and the like performed by the POS terminal 1. For example, the store server 2 stores and manages the merchandise sales data generated by the merchandise sales data processing of the POS terminal 1, and stores and manages merchandise data files and the like used in the merchandise sales data processing.

[0017] There is no particular restriction on the number of POS terminals 1 placed in the store P1, and multiple terminals may be used. In addition, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the POS terminal 1 outputs electronic receipt information will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the receipt information generated by the POS terminal 1 may be output to the electronic receipt server 3 as electronic receipt information by converting the data format by the store server 2 or a conversion device (not shown).

[0018] The electronic receipt server 3 is installed in the headquarters P2 of a company that operates a store or a chain of stores (hereinafter referred to as a store), and functions as a receipt management server for the company that manages electronic receipt information for each company that operates the store. The electronic receipt server 3 has functions such as sales management, sales analysis, and inventory management for the company that operates the store.

[0019] That is, multiple electronic receipt servers 3 are installed for each company that sells goods or services and operates stores such as convenience stores, supermarkets, food stores, drug stores, apparel stores, home appliance stores, department stores, general merchandise stores, and restaurants.

[0020] The electronic receipt server 3 also receives, via the network N2, the electronic receipt information transmitted from the POS terminal 1. The electronic receipt server 3 also transmits the received electronic receipt information to the electronic receipt management server 4 via the network N3 connecting the head office P2 and the electronic receipt center P3.

[0021] Here, the network N3 is, for example, a dedicated line such as the Internet or VPN. Furthermore, the method of transmitting the electronic receipt information is not particularly limited, and a general-purpose protocol such as HTTP or HTTPS may be used.

[0022] The electronic receipt management server 4 is provided in an electronic receipt center P3. The electronic receipt center P3 is, for example, a third-party organization other than a company that manages electronic receipt information using the electronic receipt server 3. The electronic receipt server 3 may also be managed by a third-party organization or the like.

[0023] The electronic receipt management server 4 functions as a customer receipt management server that collectively manages electronic receipt information of various companies that operate stores. The electronic receipt management server 4 stores and manages member data such as the name and member code of each customer (member) who has registered as a member according to the procedure described below, and destination information (e.g., email address) of the mobile terminal 7 to which the electronic receipt information is to be sent, in a member master stored in a database DB. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which a member management server or the like that stores and manages member data is provided separately from the electronic receipt management server 4.

[0024] Furthermore, the electronic receipt management server 4 receives electronic receipt information transmitted from the electronic receipt server 3 via the network N3, and stores and manages this electronic receipt information in an electronic receipt management area 43a (described later) held in the database DB. More specifically, the electronic receipt information includes elements such as a membership code in addition to the transaction details of the product (product sales data), and is managed in association with the membership data of the corresponding member.

[0025] Furthermore, when the electronic receipt management server 4 stores the electronic receipt information in the database DB, it identifies the destination (mobile terminal 7) by referring to the destination information associated with the membership code of the electronic receipt information. Then, the electronic receipt management server 4 transmits the electronic receipt information stored in the database DB to the destination via the network N5, which will be described later. Note that, if additional information is associated with the electronic receipt information, the additional information is also transmitted to the destination.

[0026] Furthermore, when the electronic receipt management server 4 receives an inquiry about electronic receipt information specifying a membership code from a mobile terminal 7 connected via a network N5 (described later), the electronic receipt management server 4 extracts electronic receipt information corresponding to the membership code from the database DB and transmits it to the mobile terminal 7. Note that, if additional information is associated with the electronic receipt information, the additional information is also transmitted to the mobile terminal 7 that made the inquiry.

[0027] The mobile terminal 7 is a terminal device used by a user (customer) of the system, such as a smartphone, mobile phone, PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or tablet computer. The mobile terminal 7 is equipped with an application such as a web browser for viewing various information provided on the network N5. Note that a terminal device such as a PC may be used instead of the mobile terminal 7.

[0028] The mobile terminal 7 registers as a member of the system by accessing the electronic receipt management server 4 via the network N5. Here, the network N5 is the Internet or any of various public networks.

[0029] Incidentally, customer membership registration in this system is performed, for example, in the following procedure. The customer sends a blank email from the mobile terminal 7 to the electronic receipt management server 4 via the network N5. The electronic receipt management server 4 sends a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) indicating a page for member registration to the received email address. The customer accesses the URL indicating the page for member registration from the mobile terminal 7, and an input screen is displayed on which the customer can enter information required for member registration (name, destination information, etc.). After the customer has entered the required information, the electronic receipt management server 4 executes member registration in the member master. Thereafter, the electronic receipt management server 4 sends a member registration completion email including a member code (customer code) and password to the mobile terminal 7. This completes the member registration.

[0030] After the member registration as described above, the mobile terminal 7 displays the customer's membership code as a recipient code in the form of a code symbol such as a barcode or two-dimensional code on the display unit 73 (see FIG. 6), which will be described later. When settling a transaction at store P1, the customer presents the code symbol displayed on the mobile terminal 7 to a store clerk. The store clerk reads the code symbol displayed on the mobile terminal 7 with a code scanner 15 (see FIG. 2) connected to the POS terminal 1. This makes it possible to associate the customer's membership code (recipient code) with electronic receipt information generated after settlement through product sales data processing in the POS terminal 1.

[0031] After a payment (transaction) is made at the POS terminal 1, the mobile terminal 7 receives electronic receipt information of the transaction transmitted from the electronic receipt management server 4 via the network N5. By transmitting an inquiry for electronic receipt information specifying a membership code to the electronic receipt management server 4 via the network N5, the mobile terminal 7 receives electronic receipt information of the member from the electronic receipt management server 4. The mobile terminal 7 displays the received electronic receipt on the display unit 73.

[0032] In the electronic receipt system configured as above, electronic receipt information indicating the details of a transaction (payment) generated by processing product sales data at the POS terminal 1 of the store P1 is transmitted to the electronic receipt management server 4 via the electronic receipt server 3 and is published on the Web. Therefore, a mobile terminal 7 having a Web browser installed can download the electronic receipt information published on the Web to the mobile terminal 7 and view it on the Web browser by specifying a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). Note that an application for viewing the electronic receipt information may be installed on the mobile terminal 7 to view the electronic receipt information.

[0033] Next, the configuration of the main devices that constitute the electronic receipt system of this embodiment will be described.

[0034] First, we will explain the POS terminal 1, which is a product sales data processing device. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the POS terminal 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the POS terminal 1 has a control unit 11 that performs overall control of various calculations and each unit of the POS terminal 1. The control unit 11 is a computer made up of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores various programs and data, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores various programs and rewritably stores various data, an RTC (Real Time Clock) unit that keeps track of the current date and time, etc.

[0035] The control unit 11 is connected to an operation unit 12, a printer 13, a display unit 14, and a code scanner 15 via a bus 18.

[0036] The operation unit 12 has various operation keys for the operator to input operations, such as number keys for inputting numerical values, cursor keys and a selection confirmation key for selecting a predetermined item, a subtotal key for instructing the total output of products for which sales are registered in a transaction, a closing key for declaring that a transaction will be closed and the price will be settled, and a "recall previous transaction" key for declaring that the previous transaction will be read as a transaction subject to return.

[0037] The printer 13 is a printer device that prints receipts, journals, etc. The printer 13 is equipped with a cutting mechanism (not shown) that cuts paper such as roll paper onto which data is to be printed, and cuts the paper in accordance with a cut command, which will be described later.

[0038] The display unit 14 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information such as the name and price of the product registered for sale, the total amount of the transaction for which payment has been declared, the amount of change, etc. The display unit 14 includes an operator display 14a that displays various information to the cashier, and a customer display 14b that displays various information to the customer. The display unit 14 may also be configured as a touch panel, in which case the touch panel functions as the operation unit 12.

[0039] The code scanner 15 is a scanner device that optically reads code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The code scanner 15 reads, for example, a code symbol attached to a product or a code symbol displayed on the mobile terminal 7, and outputs information stored in the code symbol to the control unit 11. It is assumed that the code symbol attached to the product holds a product code or the like for identifying the product. It is also assumed that the code symbol displayed on the mobile terminal 7 holds a membership code (customer code) or the like for identifying the customer carrying the mobile terminal 7.

[0040] The control unit 11 is also connected to a communication I / F (interface) 16 via a bus 18, and can be connected to an in-store network N1 and a network N2 via this communication I / F 16.

[0041] The control unit 11 is also connected to a storage unit 17 via a bus 18. The storage unit 17 is, for example, an auxiliary storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 17 stores programs for executing various POS operations, including product sales data processing. The storage unit 17 also stores various data files related to product sales data processing, such as a product data file that stores product data such as the product name, product code, and unit price of each product. The storage unit 17 also stores a receipt information processing program 17a for performing product sales data processing and processing related to electronic receipt information.

[0042] The storage unit 17 also stores in the identification code management area 17b a POS number for distinguishing the POS terminal 1 from other POS terminals 1, a company code (an identification code of the company that operates the store), a business type / business category code, a store code indicating the store P1 where the POS terminal 1 is installed, and the like. Here, the business type / business category code is a code (classification code) that distinguishes the business type / business category of the store, such as a convenience store, supermarket, department store, pharmacy, restaurant, or eating and drinking establishment. Note that such business type / business category can be changed as desired by the user. The company code (an identification code of the company that operates the store) and the business type / business category code may be registered in the electronic receipt server 3.

[0043] The storage unit 17 also stores a receipt information schema 17c that describes conversion rules for converting receipt information in unstructured format into electronic receipt information in a structured format such as XML or CSV. Specifically, the receipt information schema 17c defines the predetermined elements that make up the receipt information and attribute information (tags, etc.) that indicates the attributes of those elements.

[0044] Next, the configuration of the electronic receipt server 3 that functions as a receipt management server for a company will be explained using the block diagram in Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the electronic receipt server 3 has a control unit 31 that performs various calculations and overall control of each unit of the electronic receipt server 3. The control unit 31 is a computer that is made up of a CPU, a ROM that stores various programs and data, a RAM that temporarily stores various programs and rewritably stores various data, an RTC unit that keeps track of the current date and time, etc.

[0045] The control unit 31 can be connected to the network N2 or the network N3 via a communication I / F 32 connected to a bus 34. The control unit 31 is also connected to a storage unit 33 via the bus 34.

[0046] The storage unit 33 stores electronic receipt information for each company that operates a store in the electronic receipt management area 33a. The electronic receipt information includes a company code (an identification code of the company that operates the store), an industry / business type code, a store code, a customer membership code, a POS number of the POS terminal 1, a receipt number, product sales data, etc.

[0047] The storage unit 33 also stores an electronic receipt management program 33b for managing electronic receipt information in the electronic receipt management area 33a. The storage unit 33 also stores an information transmission program 33c for transmitting the electronic receipt information managed in the electronic receipt management area 33a to the electronic receipt management server 4.

[0048] Next, the configuration of the electronic receipt management server 4 that functions as a customer receipt management server will be described using the block diagram in Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 4, the electronic receipt management server 4 has a control unit 41 that performs various calculations and overall control of each unit of the electronic receipt management server 4. The control unit 41 is a computer that is made up of a CPU, a ROM that stores various programs and data, a RAM that temporarily stores various programs and rewritably stores various data, an RTC unit that keeps track of the current date and time, etc.

[0049] The control unit 41 can be connected to the networks N3, N4, and N5 via a communication I / F 42 connected to a bus 44. The control unit 41 is also connected to a storage unit 43 via the bus 44.

[0050] The storage unit 43 has a member master management area (not shown) for storing and managing member master data, as well as an electronic receipt management area 43a for collectively storing electronic receipt information of various companies that operate the store. More specifically, the electronic receipt management area 43a manages electronic receipt information of various companies that operate the store for each member.

[0051] The electronic receipt information includes a membership code, a company code (an identification code for the company that operates the store), a store code, the POS number of the POS terminal 1, a transaction number, product sales data (including date and time), etc. Therefore, for example, a consumer goods manufacturer can obtain unique proof information for purchased products related to that manufacturer from this electronic receipt information under specific conditions (for example, limited to a specific company that operates the store, limited to a specific region, limited to a specific time, etc.). Consumer goods manufacturers include manufacturers of food, beverages, clothing, cosmetics, medicines, household goods, etc.

[0052] The storage unit 43 also stores a member management program (not shown) for managing the member master in the member master area, as well as an electronic receipt management program 43c for managing electronic receipt information of each company in the electronic receipt management area 43a. The storage unit 43 also stores an information transmission program 43d for transmitting electronic receipt information to the mobile terminal 7. The member master management area and the electronic receipt management area 43a correspond to the database DB shown in FIG. 1.

[0053] The storage unit 43 also stores a stamp management table T. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the stamp management table T. As shown in FIG. 5, the stamp management table T stores information (such as a stamp flag, stamp type, and product code for return) that indicates that a specific process (e.g., a stamp affixing process) described below has been executed, in association with information (store, date, time, and transaction number) that can identify a receipt on which the process has been executed. In other words, the stamp management table T functions as a stamp information management unit. The stamp information may also include a stamp image.

[0054] In this embodiment, the stamp type of the stamp information indicating that the stamping process has been executed will be explained as "returned goods", which indicates that the return process has been executed at the POS terminal 1.

[0055] The electronic receipt management program 43c and the information transmission program 43d executed by the electronic receipt management server 4 of this embodiment are provided by being recorded in an installable or executable format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

[0056] The electronic receipt management program 43c and the information transmission program 43d executed by the electronic receipt management server 4 of the present embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. The electronic receipt management program 43c and the information transmission program 43d executed by the electronic receipt management server 4 of the present embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0057] The electronic receipt management program 43c and the information transmission program 43d of this embodiment may be provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like.

[0058] Next, the configuration of the mobile terminal 7 will be described using the block diagram of Fig. 6. As shown in Fig. 6, the mobile terminal 7 has a control unit 71 that performs overall control of various calculations and each unit of the mobile terminal 7. The control unit 71 is a computer that is made up of a CPU, a ROM that stores various programs and data, a RAM that temporarily stores various programs and rewritably stores various data, an RTC unit that keeps track of the current date and time, etc.

[0059] The control unit 71 is connected to the operation unit 72 and the display unit 73 via a bus 76. The operation unit 72 has various operation keys and a pointing device for the user (customer) to input operations. The display unit 73 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information such as electronic receipt information described below. The display unit 73 may be configured as a touch panel, in which case the touch panel functions as the operation unit 72.

[0060] The control unit 71 is also connected to a communication I / F 74 via a bus 76, and can be connected to a network N5 via this communication I / F 74. Note that the control unit 71 may also be configured to be connectable to an in-store network N1 via the communication I / F 74.

[0061] The control unit 71 is also connected to a storage unit 75 via a bus 76. The storage unit 75 stores a web browser for viewing various information (content) published on the web, as well as an electronic receipt compatible program 75a for receiving electronic receipt information from the electronic receipt management server 4 and an electronic receipt viewing program 75b for viewing the received electronic receipt information.

[0062] Next, the operation of each component constituting the system of this embodiment will be described.

[0063] First, the electronic receipt processing executed by the control unit 11 of the POS terminal 1 operating in accordance with the receipt information processing program 17a will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0064] 7, the receipt information processing program 17a executed by the POS terminal 1 has a modular configuration including a receipt information generation unit 111 that functions as receipt information generation means, and a receipt information output unit 112 that functions as output means. In terms of actual hardware, the CPU of the control unit 11 reads and executes the receipt information processing program 17a from the storage unit 17, loading the above units into RAM and generating the receipt information generation unit 111 and receipt information output unit 112 on RAM.

[0065] The receipt information generation unit 111 is a functional unit that corresponds to an existing application and primarily processes product sales data and generates receipt printing data (receipt information). When the receipt information generation unit 111 acquires a product code identifying a product via the code scanner 15, it reads product data corresponding to the product code from a product data file and executes product sales data processing to calculate the payment amount based on the unit price included in the product data. The receipt information generation unit 111 then generates receipt information that includes the product sales data processed during the product sales data processing, i.e., the transaction details for that product.

[0066] Here, the product sales data processing also includes a return processing for returning purchased products. The return processing in the POS terminal 1 is performed by reading the code symbol (membership code) displayed on the mobile terminal 7 and the product code of the product to be returned using the code scanner 15 connected to the POS terminal 1, and then for the product associated with the product code. Note that, in most cases, the transaction to be returned in the return processing is the most recent transaction, so the most recent transaction may be read as the transaction to be returned by operating a "Last Transaction Recall" key (not shown) provided on the operation unit 12. Alternatively, the code scanner 15 may read a code symbol for transaction search in the electronic receipt information displayed on the mobile terminal 7, and then search and read it from the journal file of the store server 2.

[0067] Furthermore, when the receipt information generating unit 111 acquires a membership code that identifies a customer via the code scanner 15 at any time during a transaction, it generates receipt information that includes the membership code.

[0068] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of receipt information. Here, receipt information is unstructured text data or the like, and is used for printing by the printer 13. As shown in Fig. 8, receipt information includes the above-mentioned product sales data D1 and membership code D2. Here, product sales data D1 includes the product names (product codes) of the products that were the subject of payment and their prices, the total price of each product, the amount deposited by the customer, the amount of change, etc.

[0069] The receipt information also includes elements such as a company code (company name) D3 indicating the company that operates the store, a store code (store name) D4, the store's telephone number D5, address D6, transaction date and time D7, transaction number (receipt number) D8, register number D9, and person in charge's name D10. Note that the elements included in the receipt information are not limited to the example in FIG. 8, and may include other elements such as an industry / business type code, or elements such as the telephone number D5 and address D6 may be removed.

[0070] In addition, if a return transaction has been carried out, the receipt information includes specific characters that identify that a return transaction has been carried out, in association with the returned product (product code).

[0071] Furthermore, when the receipt information generation unit 111 receives a press of the closing key, it determines that the processing of product sales data for one transaction is complete, and outputs (issues) the generated receipt information along with a cut command to the receipt information output unit 112. Here, the cut command is one of the commonly used printer control commands, and is instruction information that instructs the cutting of the paper on which the receipt information is printed. Note that receipt information may be generated all at once when the closing key is pressed, or may be generated sequentially each time a product code or customer code is acquired.

[0072] The receipt information output unit 112 determines the output destination of receipt information each time receipt information for one transaction is generated by the receipt information generation unit 111. More specifically, the receipt information output unit 112 determines that receipt information for one transaction has been generated when a cut command is issued by the receipt information generation unit 111. The receipt information output unit 112 then determines whether or not a membership code is included in the generated receipt information, and outputs the receipt information to an output destination determined based on the result of this determination.

[0073] Specifically, if the receipt information output unit 112 determines that the receipt information does not include a membership code, it outputs the receipt information along with a cut command to the printer 13. The printer 13 then prints the receipt information on paper and then cuts the paper in accordance with the cut command, thereby printing out a paper receipt for one transaction. Note that when printing out the receipt information, all of the elements that make up the receipt information may be printed, or the membership code may be removed, or other information such as advertising may be added.

[0074] Furthermore, if the receipt information output unit 112 determines that the receipt information includes a membership code, it converts the receipt information into a predetermined data format in accordance with the conversion rules of the receipt information schema 17c.Then, the receipt information output unit 112 transmits (outputs) the receipt information whose data format has been converted, i.e., the electronic receipt information, to the electronic receipt server 3, which is managed on a company-by-company basis according to the company code.

[0075] The receipt information output unit 112 also identifies that a return transaction has been executed by detecting specific characters associated with the product to be returned (product code), and when digitizing the receipt, adds the fact that a return transaction has been executed as one of the receipt attribute information and sends it to the electronic receipt server 3.

[0076] Here, Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a schematic example of electronic receipt information. As shown in Fig. 9, the electronic receipt information is composed of data (structured document) in a structured format such as XML or CSV. Fig. 9 shows an example in which each element (D1 to D10) of the receipt information shown in Fig. 8 is converted into XML format.

[0077] Conversion from receipt information to electronic receipt information is performed based on conversion rules described in the receipt information schema 17c. Specifically, the receipt information schema 17c defines predetermined elements that make up receipt information and attribute information (tags, etc.) that indicates the attributes of those elements. The receipt information output unit 112 generates electronic receipt information in a structured format as shown in FIG. 9 by structuring each element of the receipt information using the corresponding attribute information. By generating electronic receipt information in such a structured format, elements included in the electronic receipt information can be used efficiently, providing various advantages in terms of data management.

[0078] In this way, the receipt information output unit 112 determines that receipt information for one transaction has been generated when the receipt information generation unit 111 issues a cut command, and begins outputting that receipt information. This eliminates the need for the receipt information generation unit 111 to send a dedicated signal to instruct the receipt information output unit 112 to end one transaction, so the receipt information output unit 112 can output receipt information for one transaction without any particular changes to the receipt information generation unit 111 that is compatible with existing applications. Furthermore, because changes to the receipt information generation unit 111 can be kept to a minimum, the function of outputting electronic receipt information can be realized while efficiently reusing existing applications.

[0079] The receipt information output unit 112 also determines the output destination of the receipt information depending on whether the receipt information includes a membership code. This allows paper receipts or electronic receipt information to be output without having to prepare information on whether a paper receipt is required for each customer, making it possible to efficiently determine the output destination of the receipt information. Furthermore, for example, customers (members) can select whether to output a paper receipt or electronic receipt information by entering or not entering a membership code for each transaction, thereby improving customer convenience.

[0080] Furthermore, when outputting receipt information to the electronic receipt server 3, the receipt information output unit 112 converts elements included in the receipt information into structured electronic receipt information and outputs the electronic receipt information. This allows the elements included in the electronic receipt information to be used efficiently, thereby improving the convenience of the electronic receipt information in the electronic receipt server 3 and the electronic receipt management server 4 that manage the electronic receipt information, and the mobile terminal 7 that displays the electronic receipt information.

[0081] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of electronic receipt processing in the POS terminal 1. First, the receipt information generation unit 111 of the POS terminal 1 determines whether the code symbol (product code) attached to the product or the code symbol (membership code) displayed on the mobile terminal 7 has been read by the code scanner 15 (step S11). If the code symbol has not been read (step S11; No), the receipt information generation unit 111 proceeds to step S16.

[0082] On the other hand, if the receipt information generating unit 111 determines that the code symbol has been read (step S11; Yes), it determines whether the information obtained by the reading is a product code or a membership code (step S12).

[0083] If a product code is acquired in step S12 (step S12; product code), the receipt information generation unit 111 reads product data for the product identified by the product code from the product data file, and then executes product sales data processing to calculate the payment amount based on the unit price included in the product data, or executes return processing if the product has been preset to return mode (step S13). Next, the receipt information generation unit 111 generates receipt information including the product sales data processed during the product sales data processing or the return data processed during return processing (step S14).

[0084] Furthermore, if a membership code is acquired in step S12 (step S12; membership code), the receipt information generation unit 111 generates receipt information including the membership code (step S15).

[0085] To input the membership code into the POS terminal 1, for example, the customer who is a member displays a code symbol including the membership code on the display unit 73 of the mobile terminal 7, and a store clerk or the customer who is a member reads it with the code scanner 15 of the POS terminal 1. The receipt information generation unit 111 may also be configured to perform exclusion processing to ensure that only one membership code is input during one transaction.

[0086] In the next step S16, the receipt information generation unit 111 determines whether or not an instruction to start the closing process has been issued by pressing the closing key, etc. (step S16). If an instruction to start the closing process has not been issued (step S16; No), the process returns to step S11. If an instruction to start the closing process has been issued (step S16; Yes), the receipt information generation unit 111 issues (outputs) a cut command to the receipt information output unit 112 (step S17).

[0087] When the receipt information output unit 112 receives the cut command from the receipt information generation unit 111, it determines that receipt information for one transaction has been generated, and determines whether the receipt information includes a membership code (step S18).

[0088] If the receipt information does not include a membership code (Step S18; No), the receipt information output unit 112 outputs the receipt information for one transaction along with a cut command to the printer 13, thereby printing out the receipt information (Step S19), and ends this process. As a result, the printer 13 prints the receipt information on paper, and then cuts the paper in accordance with the cut command, thereby printing out a paper receipt for one transaction.

[0089] On the other hand, if the receipt information includes a membership code (Step S18; Yes), the receipt information output unit 112 generates electronic receipt information by converting the data format of the receipt information, which is in an unstructured format, into a structured format based on the irregular rules described in the receipt information schema 17c (Step S20).Then, the receipt information output unit 112 transmits the generated electronic receipt information to the electronic receipt server 3 via the communication I / F 16 (Step S21), and ends this process.

[0090] In the above process, if the receipt information includes a membership code, the receipt information is output to the electronic receipt server 3, but this is not limiting, and the receipt information may be output to both the printer 13 and the electronic receipt server 3.

[0091] Furthermore, if the receipt information includes a membership code, the output destination of that receipt information may be selectable. For example, the mobile terminal 7 may store output classification information specifying the output destination of the receipt information in the code symbol it displays, and the output destination may be selected based on this output classification information. In this configuration, the receipt information generation unit 111 includes the output classification information read by the code scanner 15 in the receipt information along with the membership code. Then, if the receipt information output unit 112 determines that the receipt information includes a membership code and that output classification information exists, it determines the output destination of the receipt information based on the output classification information. Note that the output classification information can specify either the printer 13 or the electronic receipt server 3, or both.

[0092] Alternatively, the output destination of the receipt information may be selected each time a payment is made for a product. When this configuration is used, for example, if the receipt information output unit 112 determines that the receipt information includes a membership code, it displays an output destination selection screen on the display unit 14 to select the output destination of the receipt information.

[0093] Next, the flow of the electronic receipt management process executed by the control unit 31 of the electronic receipt server 3 operating in accordance with the electronic receipt management program 33b and the flow of the information transmission process executed by the control unit 31 operating in accordance with the information transmission program 33c will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 11.

[0094] When the control unit 31 of the electronic receipt server 3 receives the electronic receipt information transmitted from the POS terminal 1 via the communication I / F 32 (Step S31; Yes), it stores the electronic receipt information as electronic receipt information for each company in the electronic receipt management area 33a of the storage unit 33 (Step S32). Then, the control unit 31 of the electronic receipt server 3 transmits the electronic receipt information stored in Step S32 to the electronic receipt management server 4 (Step S33), and returns to Step S31.

[0095] Furthermore, when a preset transmission timing arrives (Step S31; No → Step S34; Yes), the control unit 31 of the electronic receipt server 3 transmits the electronic receipt information stored and managed in the electronic receipt management area 33a to the electronic receipt management server 4 (Step S35), and returns to Step S31. By transmitting in Step S35, for example, electronic receipt information that was not selected as a transmission target in Step S33 can be transmitted to the electronic receipt management server 4. Note that in Step S35, control may be performed so that only untransmitted electronic receipt information is transmitted.

[0096] Next, the flow of the electronic receipt management process executed by the control unit 41 of the electronic receipt management server 4 operating in accordance with the electronic receipt management program 43c and the flow of the product information transmission process executed by the control unit 41 operating in accordance with the information transmission program 43d will be described with reference to the functional block diagram shown in FIG. 12 and the flowchart shown in FIG. 13.

[0097] 12, the electronic receipt management program 43c and the information transmission program 43d executed by the electronic receipt management server 4 have a modular configuration including a receiving unit 411 functioning as a receiving means, an electronic receipt management unit 412, and an electronic receipt transmission unit 413. In terms of actual hardware, the CPU of the control unit 41 reads out and executes the electronic receipt management program 43c and the information transmission program 43d from the storage unit 43, whereby the above-mentioned units are loaded onto the RAM, and the receiving unit 411, the electronic receipt management unit 412, and the electronic receipt transmission unit 413 are generated on the RAM.

[0098] The receiving unit 411 receives, from the electronic receipt server 3, electronic receipt information for each company that includes a company code indicating the company that operates the store and is electronically processed in place of a receipt or invoice that is printed and issued when processing product sales data.

[0099] The electronic receipt management unit 412 stores and manages the electronic receipt information for each company received by the receiving unit 411 in the electronic receipt management area 43a of the storage unit 43.

[0100] Furthermore, when specific characters identifying that the return processing has been executed are added to the electronic receipt information related to the return processing on a company-by-company basis received by the receiving unit 411, the electronic receipt management unit 412 stores and manages the electronic receipt information as return electronic receipt information in the stamp management table T of the storage unit 43. More specifically, when the electronic receipt management unit 412 receives return electronic receipt information including specific characters identifying that the return processing has been executed and associated with the product to be returned (product code), the electronic receipt management unit 412 stores information (store, date, time, transaction number, product to be returned (product code)) that can identify the receipt for which the return processing has been executed in the stamp management table T, enables the stamp flag in the stamp management table T, and sets the stamp type in the stamp management table T to "return".

[0101] The electronic receipt transmitting unit 413 functions as an electronic receipt viewing means. The electronic receipt transmitting unit 413 acquires electronic receipt information, which is associated with the membership code of a specific shopper and includes at least one company code, from the electronic receipt management area 43a and transmits it to the mobile terminal 7, which is associated with the membership code of the specific shopper, to make it viewable. Furthermore, if stamp information (stamp flag, stamp type, returnable product (product code), etc.) managed in the stamp management table T is associated with the electronic receipt information, the electronic receipt transmitting unit 413 acquires the stamp information (stamp flag, stamp type, returnable product (product code), etc.) from the stamp management table T and transmits it together with the electronic receipt information to make it viewable.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 13, the receiving unit 411 of the electronic receipt management server 4 determines whether or not the electronic receipt information transmitted from the electronic receipt server 3 of each company has been received via the communication I / F 42 (Step S41).

[0103] When electronic receipt information is received (Step S41; Yes), the electronic receipt management unit 412 of the electronic receipt management server 4 stores electronic receipt information of various companies in the electronic receipt management area 43a of the storage unit 43 in the case of general electronic receipt information, and stores information that can identify receipts related to return processing of various companies and stamp information in the stamp management table T of the storage unit 43 in the case of electronic receipt information related to return processing (return electronic receipt information) (Step S42).

[0104] Next, the electronic receipt sending unit 413 sends the stored electronic receipt information if electronic receipt information has been stored in step S42, or the stored stamp information and electronic receipt information associated with the identification information (store, date, time, transaction number) of the returned electronic receipt information if electronic receipt information related to the returned goods processing (returned goods electronic receipt information) has been stored in step S42, to the destination (mobile terminal 7) managed in association with the membership code of the electronic receipt information (step S43), and then returns to step S41.

[0105] Furthermore, when an inquiry about electronic receipt information is made from the mobile terminal 7 (step S41; No → step S44; Yes), the electronic receipt sending unit 413 of the electronic receipt management server 4 extracts the electronic receipt information stored and managed in the electronic receipt management area 43a and the stamp information associated with the identification information of the electronic receipt information (store, date, time, transaction number) in accordance with the content of the inquiry about the electronic receipt information (step S45), and then sends the information to the mobile terminal 7 that made the inquiry (step S46), and returns to step S41.

[0106] Next, the flow of the electronic receipt receiving process executed by the control unit 71 of the mobile terminal 7 operating in accordance with the electronic receipt compatible program 75a and the flow of the electronic receipt viewing process executed by the control unit 71 operating in accordance with the electronic receipt viewing program 75b will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16.

[0107] 14, the electronic receipt compatible program 75a and the electronic receipt viewing program 75b executed by the mobile terminal 7 have a modular configuration including a member association unit 711, an electronic receipt receiving unit 712, and an electronic receipt display unit 713. In terms of actual hardware, the CPU of the control unit 71 reads out and executes the electronic receipt compatible program 75a and the electronic receipt viewing program 75b from the storage unit 75, thereby loading the above-mentioned units onto the RAM and generating the member association unit 711, the electronic receipt receiving unit 712, and the electronic receipt display unit 713 on the RAM.

[0108] The member association unit 711 associates the membership code of a predetermined shopper. The electronic receipt receiving unit 712 receives electronic receipt information and stamp information from the electronic receipt management server 4. The electronic receipt display unit 713 displays the electronic receipt information and stamp information received by the electronic receipt receiving unit 712 on the display unit 73.

[0109] 15, first, the member association unit 711 of the mobile terminal 7 accesses the electronic receipt management server 4 and executes authentication processing by inputting a member code and a password (step S51). As a result, the mobile terminal 7 is associated with the member code of the predetermined shopper.

[0110] After the authentication, the electronic receipt receiving unit 712 of the mobile terminal 7 receives the electronic receipt information and stamp information stored and managed in the electronic receipt management area 43a of the electronic receipt management server 4 in correspondence with the input membership code (step S52). Note that the electronic receipt information may be received by email.

[0111] Next, the electronic receipt display unit 713 of the mobile terminal 7 displays the electronic receipt information and stamp information received by the electronic receipt receiving unit 712 on the display unit 73 (step S53), and the process ends.

[0112] More specifically, when generating an electronic receipt image to be displayed on the consumer's mobile terminal 7, if the stamp flag of the stamp information associated with the identification information (store, date, time, transaction number) of the electronic receipt information is "valid" and the stamp type is "return", the electronic receipt display unit 713 of the mobile terminal 7 superimposes a stamp predefined for "return" (for example, a "strikethrough" and a "return stamp") on the returned product of the electronic receipt information and displays it. In other words, since the return process for the electronic receipt information is performed by superimposing the data of the stamp management table T, the electronic receipt information stored in the electronic receipt management area 43a remains in its original state.

[0113] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the returned goods electronic receipt information G2 displayed on the display unit 73 of the mobile terminal 7. The returned goods electronic receipt information G2 is displayed with the same layout and content as a receipt printed on paper. In addition, within the returned goods electronic receipt information G2, a cursor that follows input from the operation unit 72 can be used to focus on a product a, etc., indicating the transacted product. FIG. 16 also shows an example in which the returned goods electronic receipt information G2 includes a store name logo section G21 that displays the store logo, a banner display section G22 that displays advertisements, etc.

[0114] Also, as shown in FIG. 16, a stamp (for example, a "strikethrough" L and a "return stamp" S) that has been predefined for "returned goods" is displayed on the returned goods for which the return process has been carried out.

[0115] The display format of the electronic receipt information does not necessarily have to match the image of a receipt printed on paper. However, the electronic receipt information is a substitute for a paper receipt and serves as electronic product purchase proof information that proves that a product has been purchased. Therefore, Figure 16 shows an example of displaying the following information to be used when presenting product purchase proof information. Store name Purchase date and time Purchase details Total sales amount Deposit amount Change ·Registration number Transaction number

[0116] When a plurality of pieces of electronic receipt information are received, a selection screen may be displayed on the display unit 73, allowing the user to select each piece of electronic receipt information based on the purchase date, company code, etc. included in the electronic receipt information. In this case, the electronic receipt display unit 713 displays the electronic receipt information selected from the selection screen on the display unit 73.

[0117] As described above, according to the electronic receipt management server of the embodiment, when the received electronic receipt information is information for which a stamp affixing process has been executed, stamp information indicating that the stamp affixing process has been executed is associated with identification information of the electronic receipt information for which the stamp affixing process has been executed, and the stamp information indicating that the stamp affixing process has been executed is managed, and when the stamp information is associated with the electronic receipt information to be transmitted, the stamp information is transmitted together with the electronic receipt information to the mobile terminal 7. This makes it possible to affix a stamp or write by hand to the electronic receipt information later without changing the stored electronic receipt information, and therefore, there is no problem that the original data is tampered with when processing such as an electronic signature or a timestamp is performed on the electronic receipt information to ensure its legitimacy.

[0118] In this embodiment, the stamp type of the stamp information indicating that the stamp imprinting process has been executed has been explained as "returned goods," which is a type indicating that the return process has been executed at the POS terminal 1, but this is not limited to this.

[0119] (Providing incentives (prize exchange, parking ticket issuance, etc.)) For example, the stamp type of the stamp information can be applied to stamping a receipt for which a prize has been exchanged or a receipt for which a parking ticket has been issued. For example, if a stamp key (prize exchange key or parking ticket issuance key) is provided in the operation unit 12 of the POS terminal 1 to declare that a stamp has been applied to a receipt for which a prize has been exchanged or a receipt for which a parking ticket has been issued in the electronic receipt information, and when the stamp key (prize exchange key or parking ticket issuance key) is pressed, the receipt information generation unit 111 of the POS terminal 1 will include specific characters identifying the execution of the prize exchange or the issuance of the parking ticket in the receipt information as one element of the receipt attribute information.

[0120] Then, the receipt information output unit 112 of the POS terminal 1 detects the printing of the specific characters, and when digitizing the receipt, adds the fact that a stamp indicating that a prize has been exchanged or a parking ticket has been issued as one of the receipt attribute information and sends it to the electronic receipt server 3.

[0121] Thereafter, when the electronic receipt management unit 412 of the electronic receipt management server 4 receives electronic receipt information including specific characters that identify the execution of prize exchange or parking ticket issuance, it stores information (store, date, time, transaction number) that can identify the receipt for which prize exchange or parking ticket issuance has been carried out in the stamp management table T, enables the stamp flag in the stamp management table T, and sets the stamp type in the stamp management table T to "prize exchange" or "parking ticket issuance".

[0122] As a result, when the electronic receipt information is displayed on the mobile terminal 7, if the stamp flag is valid and the stamp type is "prize exchange" or "parking ticket issuance", a prize exchange stamp or parking ticket issuance stamp defined in advance for "prize exchange" or "parking ticket issuance" is superimposed on the electronic receipt information and displayed.

[0123] (Point stamp) For example, the stamp type of stamp information can also be applied to point stamp affixing. For example, a stamp key (point awarding key) that declares that a point stamp has been affixed to electronic receipt information is provided on the operation unit 12 of the POS terminal 1, and when the stamp key (point awarding key) is operated, the receipt information generation unit 111 of the POS terminal 1 includes specific characters that identify the affixing of a point stamp in the receipt information as one element of the receipt attribute information. Note that the point awarding conditions may also be determined by the POS terminal 1.

[0124] The receipt information output unit 112 of the POS terminal 1 then detects the printing of the specific characters, and when digitizing the receipt, adds the fact that a point stamp will be affixed as part of the receipt attribute information and sends it to the electronic receipt server 3.

[0125] Thereafter, when the electronic receipt management unit 412 of the electronic receipt management server 4 receives electronic receipt information including specific characters that identify the implementation of point stamp embossing, it stores information (store, date, time, transaction number) that can identify the receipt on which the point stamp has been embossed in the stamp management table T, enables the stamp flag in the stamp management table T, and sets the stamp type in the stamp management table T to "point stamp embossing."

[0126] As a result, when the electronic receipt information is displayed on the mobile terminal 7, if the stamp flag is enabled and the stamp type is "point stamp affixed", a point stamp affixed in advance that is specified for "point stamp affixed" is displayed over the electronic receipt information. Note that, in the case of a specified amount operation, fractional amounts may be displayed.

[0127] In the above explanation, it is assumed that a specified stamp is affixed to the electronic receipt information, but the stamp design can be changed for each company that introduces the electronic receipt information system. Furthermore, if a device such as a digital pen is connected to the POS terminal 1, it is also possible to add a handwritten digital signature to the electronic receipt information.

[0128] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. Note that the same parts as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0129] In the first embodiment, the immediately preceding transaction is read as the transaction to be returned, but in the second embodiment, the target transaction is searched for and read from the journal file of the store server 2.

[0130] 17 is a diagram showing the screen transitions involved in stamp processing in the electronic receipt system according to the second embodiment. First, the control unit 11 of the POS terminal 1 executes a journal file search function to search for and call the target original receipt from the journal file on the store server 2.

[0131] Next, the control unit 11 of the POS terminal 1 displays a transaction selection screen X (FIG. 17(a)) that displays a list of various processing transactions on the display unit 14. When the control unit 11 of the POS terminal 1 determines that the "Stamp Processing" button X1 has been pressed on the transaction selection screen X (FIG. 17(a)) displayed on the display unit 14, the control unit 11 starts the stamp processing.

[0132] Next, when the control unit 11 of the POS terminal 1 determines that the "Stamp Processing" button X1 has been pressed on the transaction selection screen X, it displays the stamp selection screen Y (FIG. 17(b)). Examples of the "Stamp" buttons Y1 to Y4 that can be selected on the stamp selection screen Y (FIG. 17(b)) include the following: "Receipt issued" "Points awarded" "Parking ticket issued" ·"done"

[0133] The "Receipt Issued" button Y1 digitizes the conventional process of stamping the original receipt when issuing a receipt. The "Points Awarded" button Y2 digitizes the conventional process of stamping the original receipt when points are added later if you forget your point card. The "Parking Ticket Issued" button Y3 digitizes the conventional process of stamping the original receipt when issuing a parking ticket for N hours for purchases of XX yen or more. The "Done" button Y4 can be used for general purposes, and digitizes the conventional process of stamping the original receipt when, for example, stamping XX yen on a paper stamp card.

[0134] When the control unit 11 of the POS terminal 1 determines that any one of the "Stamp" buttons Y1 to Y4 has been pressed on the stamp selection screen Y (FIG. 17(b)) displayed on the display unit 14, the control unit 11 starts the stamping process.

[0135] In the stamping process, the control unit 11 of the POS terminal 1 creates receipt information, which is dummy printing data, based on the original POS number, original receipt number (transaction number), original transaction date and time of the called original receipt, as well as the membership code, company ID, store code, point card number, stamp character string for the selected stamp, etc.

[0136] Because the receipt information includes a membership code, the control unit 11 (receipt information output unit 112) of the POS terminal 1 converts the data format of the receipt information, which is in an unstructured format, into a structured format based on the irregular rules described in the receipt information schema 17c, to generate stamp information, and sends the generated stamp information to the electronic receipt server 3.

[0137] The stamp information is stored in the electronic receipt management area 43 a of the electronic receipt management server 4 via the electronic receipt server 3.

[0138] When the electronic receipt management server 4 is accessed by the mobile terminal 7, the electronic receipt management server 4 displays the electronic receipt information and the stamp information on the display unit 73 of the mobile terminal 7.

[0139] More specifically, when generating an electronic receipt image to be displayed on the consumer's mobile terminal 7, if there is stamp information associated with the identification information (store, date, time, transaction number) of the electronic receipt information sent from the mobile terminal 7, the electronic receipt management server 4 generates a stamp image corresponding to the stamp character string (for example, "Receipt issued," "Points awarded," "Parking ticket issued," "Done," etc.) associated with the selected stamp. Then, the electronic receipt management server 4 combines the stamp image with the electronic receipt information corresponding to the identification information (store, date, time, transaction number) sent from the mobile terminal 7. The combined electronic receipt information and stamp image are displayed on the display unit 73 of the mobile terminal 7.

[0140] Here, Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of electronic receipt information G3 displayed on the display unit 73 of the mobile terminal 7. The electronic receipt information G3 is displayed with the same layout and content as a receipt printed on paper. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, when any of the "Stamp" buttons Y1 to Y4 is pressed on the stamp selection screen Y (Fig. 17(b)), a stamp image S1 corresponding to the stamp character string related to the selected stamp is superimposed and displayed.

[0141] The example shown in Fig. 18 is a case where a receipt has been issued, and a stamp image S1 of "Receipt issued" is superimposed on the electronic receipt information of the original transaction and displayed on the mobile terminal 7. In the example shown in Fig. 18, the display position of the stamp image S1 is the header section. The character string of the stamp image S1 is formed by the character string set in the electronic receipt information.

[0142] Therefore, since the character string of the stamp image S1 can be changed, it can be used in general cases such as the following. "Points awarded" "Parking ticket issued" "Done"

[0143] By combining and displaying a stamp image on electronic receipt information in this way, it is possible to prevent duplication of specific processes (for example, stamping processes associated with issuing receipts) (for example, issuing receipts twice).

[0144] In this embodiment, one stamp image S1 is synthesized with electronic receipt information and displayed as shown in Fig. 18, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Fig. 19, a plurality of stamping processes may be successively executed on one piece of electronic receipt information, and a plurality of stamp images S2 to S4 corresponding to each stamping process may be synthesized.

[0145] In the above embodiments, the control unit 11 (receipt information output unit 112) of the POS terminal 1 converts receipt information into electronic receipt information. However, this is not limiting, and the printer 13 of the POS terminal 1 may also perform the process of converting receipt information into electronic receipt information. Specifically, a print control device (not shown) that controls printing provided in the printer 13 functions as the receipt information output unit 112. In this case, if the print control device of the printer 13 determines that the receipt information generated and input by the control unit 11 (receipt information generation unit 111) of the POS terminal 1 does not include a membership code, it prints out the receipt information. On the other hand, if the print control device of the printer 13 determines that the receipt information generated and input by the control unit 11 (receipt information generation unit 111) of the POS terminal 1 includes a membership code, it converts the receipt information into electronic receipt information. Furthermore, if the print control device of the printer 13 determines that a membership code is included in the receipt information, which is dummy print data, based on the stamp character string etc. related to the selected stamp generated by the control unit 11 (receipt information generating unit 111) of the POS terminal 1, the print control device converts the receipt information, which is dummy print data, into electronic receipt information based on the stamp character string etc. related to the selected stamp. Then, the print control device of the printer 13 transmits the generated electronic receipt information to the electronic receipt server 3 via the communication I / F 16 of the POS terminal 1.

[0146] Furthermore, for example, in each of the above embodiments, the membership code and the like are acquired using the code scanner 15, but this is not limiting and other methods may be used to acquire the membership code and the like. Specifically, the POS terminal 1 and the mobile terminal 7 may be equipped with a short-range wireless communication unit such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark), thereby enabling the member code and the like to be transmitted and received via short-range wireless communication. In this case, the mobile terminal 7 stores the member code and the like in the memory unit 75 or an IC tag (not shown) or the like.

[0147] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the membership code and the like are acquired from the mobile terminal 7, but this is not limiting and the membership code may be acquired from a medium capable of holding the membership code, such as an IC card or a magnetic card. When an IC card is used, the POS terminal 1 is equipped with a reading / writing unit such as an IC card reader / writer. When a magnetic card is used, the POS terminal 1 is equipped with a card reader / card writer for the magnetic card.

[0148] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the electronic receipt server 3 is provided in the headquarters P2, but this is not limiting, and the electronic receipt server 3 for the store P1 may be provided in the store P1. In this case, the POS terminal 1 outputs electronic receipt information to the electronic receipt server 3 connected to the in-store network N1 of the store itself, and the electronic receipt server 3 transmits the electronic receipt information to the electronic receipt management server 4 via the in-store network N1 and the network N2.

[0149] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the electronic receipt information generated by the POS terminal 1 is output to the electronic receipt management server 4 via the electronic receipt server 3, but this is not limiting, and the electronic receipt information may be directly output to the electronic receipt management server 4 by accessing the electronic receipt management server 4 from the POS terminal 1 via the network N3.

[0150] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the mobile terminal 7 receives the electronic receipt information via the electronic receipt management server 4, but this is not limiting, and the mobile terminal 7 may receive the electronic receipt information directly from the POS terminal 1. In this case, the POS terminal 1 outputs the generated electronic receipt information to the mobile terminal 7 connected via the in-store network N1 or a short-range wireless communication unit (not shown). In this case, the POS terminal 1 may perform authentication processing.

[0151] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the product data file is stored in the POS terminal 1, but this is not limiting, and the store server 2 may store the product data file so that it can be referenced by the POS terminal 1.

[0152] 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 1. Product sales data processing device 4. Electronic receipt management server 111 Receipt information generation means 112 Output means 411 Receiving means 412 Management measures 413 Electronic receipt viewing means [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0154] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-42931

Claims

1. a management unit for storing and managing electronic receipt information related to receipt information indicating transaction details of the merchandise to be paid for in a first storage area; a receiving means for receiving information including identification information of any of the electronic receipt information stored in the first storage area and a type of specific processing executed for the transaction indicated by the electronic receipt information of the identification information; a stamp information management means for, when the receiving means receives the information, associating the identification information of the electronic receipt information with stamp information indicating the type of the specific process, and storing and managing the associated information in a second storage area provided in an area separate from the first storage area; an electronic receipt viewing means for enabling an information processing device associated with a recipient code to view the electronic receipt information associated with the recipient code, and for outputting the stamp information together with the electronic receipt information so that the stamp information can be viewed if the stamp information is associated with the electronic receipt information to be viewed; An electronic receipt management server comprising:

2. a management unit for storing and managing electronic receipt information related to receipt information indicating transaction details of the merchandise to be paid for in a first storage area; a receiving means for receiving information including identification information of any of the electronic receipt information stored in the first storage area and a type of specific processing executed for the transaction indicated by the electronic receipt information of the identification information; an electronic receipt viewing means for allowing an information processing device associated with a recipient code to view the electronic receipt information associated with the recipient code, and for outputting stamp information indicating a type of the specific process included in the information together with the transaction details, when the receiving means receives the information including identification information of the electronic receipt information to be viewed, and making the electronic receipt information viewable; An electronic receipt management server comprising:

3. The electronic receipt viewing means allows the stamp information to be superimposed on the transaction details and viewed when outputting the stamp information together with the electronic receipt information to the information processing device.

2. The electronic receipt management server according to claim 1.

4. Computer, a management unit for storing and managing electronic receipt information related to receipt information indicating transaction details of the merchandise to be paid for in a first storage area; a receiving means for receiving information including identification information of any of the electronic receipt information stored in the first storage area and a type of specific processing executed for the transaction indicated by the electronic receipt information of the identification information; a stamp information management means for, when the receiving means receives the information, associating the identification information of the electronic receipt information with stamp information indicating the type of the specific process, and storing and managing the associated information in a second storage area provided in an area separate from the first storage area; an electronic receipt viewing means for enabling an information processing device associated with a recipient code to view the electronic receipt information associated with the recipient code, and for outputting the stamp information together with the electronic receipt information so that the stamp information can be viewed if the stamp information is associated with the electronic receipt information to be viewed; A program that functions as a

5. Computer, a management unit for storing and managing electronic receipt information related to receipt information indicating transaction details of the merchandise to be paid for in a first storage area; a receiving means for receiving information including identification information of any of the electronic receipt information stored in the first storage area and a type of specific processing executed for the transaction indicated by the electronic receipt information of the identification information; an electronic receipt viewing means for allowing an information processing device associated with a recipient code to view the electronic receipt information associated with the recipient code, and for outputting stamp information indicating a type of the specific process included in the information together with the transaction details, when the receiving means receives the information including identification information of the electronic receipt information to be viewed, and making the electronic receipt information viewable; A program that functions as a

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