Information terminal and program therefor

Abstract

To provide an information terminal that facilitates recognition of update of display showing a total amount of a commercial transaction each time a purchased commodity for the commercial transaction is specified.SOLUTION: The information terminal includes a specifying unit and a display. The specifying unit specifies a purchased commodity for a commercial transaction. The display includes a first area in which a total amount of the commercial transaction is displayed and a second area in which the amount of purchased commodities specified by the specifying unit as the purchased commodities for the same commercial transaction is displayed. The display adds a sign indicating addition after the total amount displayed in the first area and displays the amount of the purchased commodities in the second area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information terminal and a program therefor. [Background technology]

[0002] Self-service product registration systems that allow customers to register sales data for purchased products by taking a photo of the product with a camera attached to an information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet have already been introduced in supermarkets and other locations. This type of information terminal generally has a display unit with a details area and a total area. The details area displays the item names, prices, etc. of the purchased products in order. The total area displays the total price, etc. of the purchased products displayed in the details area.

[0003] However, the total amount displayed in the total area is updated to include the new purchased item when the price of the new purchased item is added to the details area. This makes it difficult for customers to recognize whether the total amount has been updated to the latest amount. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-109121 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem that an embodiment of the present invention aims to solve is to provide an information terminal that makes it easy to recognize that the display showing the total amount of a commercial transaction is updated each time a purchased item related to the transaction is identified. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the information terminal has an identification unit and a display unit. The identification unit identifies purchased items related to a commercial transaction. The display unit includes a first area that displays a total amount of the commercial transaction and a second area that displays the amount of the purchased items. The display unit displays the amount of the purchased items identified in the identification unit in the second area by adding a sign indicating addition after the total amount before the purchased items are identified in the identification unit displayed in the first area. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of a self-service product registration system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of a product record. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of a recommendation record. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the information terminal as seen from the front side. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the information terminal as seen from the rear side. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the state before the information terminal is attached to the shopping basket. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which the information terminal is attached to a shopping basket. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the information terminal. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedure when the processor of the information terminal functions as the identification unit and the display control unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of data signals exchanged between the information terminal and the POS server. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows an example of an image displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the product registration process executed in the POS server. [Figure 13]FIG. 13 shows an example of an image displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of an image displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedure when the processor of the information terminal functions as a guide unit. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram of data signals exchanged between the information terminal and the POS server. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows an example of an image displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 shows an example of an image displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 shows an example of an image displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows an example of an image displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 shows an example of transition of images displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit of the information terminal. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows an example of a display on another information terminal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an information terminal that allows easy recognition of a transaction in which the display showing the total amount of the transaction is updated each time a purchased product relating to the transaction is identified will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0009] [Self-Product Registration System Explanation] First, a self-service product registration system including an information terminal will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a self-service product registration system 1. The self-service product registration system 1 includes multiple information terminals 10, multiple payment terminals 20, and a POS (Point Of Sales) server 30. The self-service product registration system 1 connects the multiple information terminals 10, the multiple payment terminals 20, and the POS server 30 via a communication network 40, allowing free two-way communication. The communication network 40 is typically a wireless local area network (LAN). The communication network 40 may also be a mobile communication network, a mobile phone communication network, or the like. The POS server 30 and the multiple payment terminals 20 may be connected via a communication network different from the communication network 40.

[0010] The information terminal 10 is a portable wireless communication terminal equipped with a battery as a power source. The information terminal 10 is lent to a customer who visits a store in which the self-service product registration system 1 is installed, along with a shopping basket. A customer who becomes a user of the information terminal 10 attaches the information terminal 10 to the shopping basket and then walks around the sales floor where products are displayed, either holding the shopping basket in his or her hand or placing the shopping basket in a shopping cart. When the customer finds a product they wish to purchase, a so-called purchased product, they place the purchased product in the shopping basket. The information terminal 10 takes a photo of the purchased product placed in the shopping basket using an imaging unit. When the purchased product is photographed by the imaging unit, the purchased product is identified from the image, and the price of the purchased product and the like are displayed on the display unit of the information terminal 10. The total amount of the transaction is also displayed.

[0011] The payment terminal 20 is a terminal for settling commercial transactions with customers who use the information terminal 10. The payment terminal 20 is installed in a checkout area that is separate from the sales floor. After customers have finished shopping in the sales floor, they move to the checkout area. The customers then settle the commercial transaction by operating the payment terminal 20 themselves to make the payment. Payment methods include cash, credit card, electronic money, code payment, etc. The payment terminal 20 may be compatible with any one of the payment methods described above. The payment terminal 20 may be operated by a store clerk rather than by a customer. Such a payment terminal 20 may also be called an accounting machine, POS terminal, settlement machine, etc.

[0012] The POS server 30 is a server computer installed in the back yard of a store, etc. The POS server 30 collects and aggregates data on commercial transactions settled at the payment terminal 20, and provides a service for managing the store's sales, product inventory, etc.

[0013] The POS server 30 includes databases such as a product database 31 and a recommendation database 32. The product database 31 is a collection of product records 311 (see FIG. 2) generated for each product sold in the sales area. The recommendation database 32 is a collection of recommendation records 321 (see FIG. 3) generated for each piece of recommendation information. The recommendation information is promotional information that recommends to customers products that are likely to attract their interest. The recommendation information is displayed, for example, on a signage terminal installed in the sales area to promote it to customers.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of a product record 311. As shown in the figure, the product record 311 includes data related to items such as a product code, product name, regular price, discount price, discount conditions, product image, bulk sale code, and the number of items sold. The product code is a unique code assigned to each product to identify it individually. The product name is the item name of the product (hereinafter referred to as the product) identified by the product code in the same record. The regular price is the regular sale price of the product. The discount price is the discounted sale price of the product. The discount conditions are the conditions under which the product is sold at a discount. For example, if the product is a limited-time sale product, the discount conditions are data indicating the time period during which the limited-time sale is available. The product image is an image representing the product. The product image may be an image of the entire product or an image showing only part of the product. A product image is sufficient as long as it allows a customer who views the image to identify the product.

[0015] A bulk sale code is a unique code assigned to each condition of a bulk sale discount, which applies when two or more items are purchased. For example, if product A and product B are purchased together, a bulk sale discount condition would be that 10 yen will be discounted from the total price of the two items. Product records for products that qualify for bulk sale discounts contain a bulk sale code that is uniquely assigned to the bulk sale discount condition to which the product belongs. Product records for products that are not eligible for bulk sale discounts do not contain a bulk sale code. Alternatively, a NULL value is entered as the bulk sale code.

[0016] The settlement score is the number of items of merchandise required to satisfy the conditions for the bulk sale discount. As mentioned above, if the condition is that if product A and product B are purchased together, a 10 yen discount will be applied to the total price of the two items, then the settlement score for the product records 311 of product A and product B will be entered as "2." Incidentally, the settlement score for the product records of products that are not eligible for the bulk sale discount is "0."

[0017] 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of a recommendation record 321. As shown in the figure, the recommendation record 321 includes data related to items such as a recommendation code, a signage terminal ID, product location data, and the main body of recommendation information. The recommendation code is a unique code assigned to each piece of recommendation information in order to individually identify each type of recommendation information. The signage terminal ID is identification information for the signage terminal that displays the recommendation information identified by the recommendation code of the same record (hereinafter referred to as the recommendation information).

[0018] The product location data is data that indicates the location within the sales floor where the product recommended by the recommendation information is sold. For example, the product location data is data in which an arbitrary point on the floor of the sales floor is set as the origin (0,0,0) of a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, and the numerical values ​​on the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis from the origin to the location where the product is sold are expressed as three-dimensional coordinates (X,Y,Z).

[0019] The recommendation information body is content that advertises the product recommended by the recommendation information, and is created by appropriately combining, for example, still images, videos, text, audio, and the like.

[0020] Returning to the explanation of Figure 1. The POS server 30 stores multiple transaction files 33. The transaction file 33 is a data file that is created each time a customer becomes a user of the information terminal 10. The transaction file 33 is an area for temporarily storing sales data of each purchased item identified via the information terminal 10 as data related to a commercial transaction with the customer who is the user of that information terminal 10. The data related to the commercial transaction includes the product code, product name, price, discount amount, etc. of each purchased item. The total amount of the commercial transaction, calculated based on the price, discount amount, etc. of each purchased item, is also included in the data related to the commercial transaction.

[0021] The POS server 30 is equipped with an image recognition engine 34. The image recognition engine 34 captures an image captured by the imaging unit of the information terminal 10 and uses AI technology to recognize the product depicted in the image. Specifically, the image recognition engine 34 analyzes the color, shape, and other characteristics of the product depicted in the image and recognizes the product based on these characteristics. Furthermore, if a product barcode is depicted in the image, the image recognition engine 34 recognizes the product by analyzing the barcode. If two or more products are depicted in the image, the image recognition engine 34 can recognize each of the products.

[0022] [Information terminal configuration explanation] Next, the information terminal 10 will be described. <Description of appearance configuration> FIG. 4 is a plan view of information terminal 10 as viewed from the front side, and FIG. 5 is a plan view of information terminal 10 as viewed from the rear side. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, information terminal 10 has a long, rod-shaped first housing 101 and a hemispherical second housing 102. Information terminal 10 forms a plane 103 along the longitudinal direction of first housing 101. Second housing 102 is provided contiguous to one end of first housing 101 so that plane 103 and a substantially circular plane 104 of second housing 102 are flush with each other. Information terminal 10 with such an external configuration has a stick-like shape, and can therefore be referred to as a stick terminal, a rod-shaped terminal, or the like.

[0023] In this specification, the surface where plane 103 and plane 104 are continuous is called the front surface of information terminal 10. The arc-shaped surface opposite to the front surface is called the back surface. Furthermore, the surface between the front surface and the back surface, which is approximately perpendicular to the front surface, is called the side surface.

[0024] Information terminal 10 has first display unit 105 and second display unit 106 on the front side. Specifically, information terminal 10 has long first display unit 105 on flat surface 103 of first housing 101, and approximately circular second display unit 106 on flat surface 104 of second housing 102. First display unit 105 divides the display area into two in the longitudinal direction. The display area near the end opposite second display unit 106 is designated as first area 1051, and the remaining display area is designated as second area 1052.

[0025] The information terminal 10 has an imaging unit 107 on one side of the first housing 101. The imaging unit 107 is used to capture an image of a commodity purchased by a customer who is a user of the information terminal 10.

[0026] Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the state before the information terminal 10 is attached to the shopping basket 50, and Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the state after the information terminal 10 is attached to the shopping basket 50. As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the information terminal 10 can be detachably attached to a shopping basket 50 dedicated to the information terminal and provided in the store. The shopping basket 50 has a substantially rectangular opening 51 at its top end for putting in and taking out purchased items, and four edges 52, 53, 54, and 55 surrounding the opening 51. The information terminal 10 is attached to any of the four edges 52, 53, 54, and 55 with the front facing up when in use.

[0027] 6 and 7, the shopping basket 50 has an attachment portion 56 for attaching the information terminal 10 to one of the four edges 52, 53, 54, and 55, which is the narrower edge 52. The attachment portion 56 has a shape that supports the back surface of the information terminal 10. As shown in the figures, the information terminal 10 is attached to the attachment portion 56 by placing the information terminal 10 on the attachment portion 56 from the back side so that the information terminal 10 matches the shape of the attachment portion 56.

[0028] When the information terminal 10 is attached to the attachment portion 56, the first display portion 105 of the first housing 101 and the second display portion 106 of the second housing 102 face upward. Therefore, a customer using the shopping basket 50 can check the information displayed on the first display portion 105 and the second display portion 106 by looking at the information terminal 10 from above. In addition, the imaging portion 107 provided on one side of the first housing 101 faces the edge portion 54 opposite the edge portion 52. As a result, the imaging portion 107 has an imaging area that covers substantially the entire opening 51. The imaging portion 107 can capture images of purchased items that the customer has put into the shopping basket 50 through the opening 51, or returned items that the customer has taken out of the shopping basket 50.

[0029] <Circuit configuration explanation> 8 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of information terminal 10. Information terminal 10 includes a computer 108 for controlling first display unit 105, second display unit 106, and imaging unit 107. Computer 108 includes processor 11, memory 12, wireless unit 13, position detection unit 14, and system transmission path 15. Information terminal 10 configures computer 108 by connecting processor 11 with memory 12, wireless unit 13, and position detection unit 14 via system transmission path 15. System transmission path 15 is a transmission path including an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc.

[0030] Information terminal 10 connects first display unit 105, second display unit 106, and imaging unit 107 to system transmission path 15 via a signal input / output circuit (not shown). First display unit 105 has a strip-shaped liquid crystal panel arranged on flat surface 103 of first housing 101. First display unit 105 displays a one-line text image on the liquid crystal panel under the control of computer 108.

[0031] Second display unit 106 has a circular liquid crystal panel disposed on flat surface 104 of second housing 102. Second display unit 106 also has a touch sensor disposed on the display surface of the liquid crystal panel. That is, second display unit 106 functions as a touch panel. Second display unit 106 displays an image on the liquid crystal panel under the control of computer 108, and when the touch sensor detects a touch operation on the display surface, it outputs a detection signal to computer 108.

[0032] The image capturing unit 107 includes a camera such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) camera, etc. The image capturing unit 107 outputs frame images captured by the camera to the computer .

[0033] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer 108. The processor 11 controls each part to realize various functions of the information terminal 10 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0034] The memory 12 corresponds to the main memory of the computer 108. The memory 12 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The nonvolatile memory area of ​​the memory 12 stores an operating system and application programs. The volatile memory area of ​​the memory 12 stores data and the like required for the processor 11 to execute processes for controlling each part. For example, the nonvolatile memory area is ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0035] The wireless unit 13 is a circuit for wirelessly communicating with the POS server 30 via the communication network 40. The wireless unit 13 includes a transmitting circuit that transmits a data signal to the POS server 30 using a predetermined wireless communication method, and a receiving circuit that receives the data signal from the POS server 30.

[0036] The position detection unit 14 is a circuit for detecting the position of the information terminal 10. The position detection unit 14 includes various sensors necessary for position detection. The sensors are, for example, a gyro sensor, a digital compass, an acceleration sensor, etc. Based on the signals from the sensors, the position detection unit 14 detects the current position of the information terminal 10 as it moves within the sales floor.

[0037] <Function Description> In the information terminal 10 configured as described above, the processor 11 has the functions of an identification unit 111, a display control unit 112, and a guidance unit 113. The identification unit 111 has a function of identifying a purchased item related to a commercial transaction. When a purchased item is placed in the shopping basket 50, the image capture unit 107 captures an image of the purchased item. Image data of the captured purchased item is transmitted to the POS server 30 via the wireless unit 13. Then, when the purchased item is recognized by the image recognition engine 34, data related to the purchased item is transmitted from the POS server 30. The identification unit 111 identifies the purchased item based on the data received from the POS server 30 by the wireless unit 13. In this way, the identification unit 111 cooperates with the image recognition engine 34 of the POS server 30 to identify the item photographed by the image capture unit 107 as a purchased item.

[0038] The display control unit 112 has a function of displaying information about the purchased item identified by the identification unit 111 on the first display unit 105 and the second display unit 106. As will be described in detail later, the display control unit 112 displays the total amount of the transaction and the price of the purchased item in the first area 1051 and the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105, and displays an image of the purchased item on the second display unit 106.

[0039] The guidance unit 113 has a function of guiding a customer to the location of a product recommended by the recommendation information. When a customer who is a user of the information terminal 10 is near a signage terminal, the guidance unit 113 notifies the customer of the sales location of the recommended product introduced by the signage terminal using the second display unit 106 of the information terminal 10. Furthermore, the guidance unit 113 also has a function of notifying the customer when the customer arrives at the sales location of the recommended product.

[0040] <About the identification unit and display control unit> Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedure when the processor 11 functions as the identification unit 111 and the display control unit 112 in the information terminal 10. Fig. 10 is a sequence diagram showing data signals exchanged between the information terminal 10 and the POS server 30 during the information processing, and information processing executed by the POS server 30 upon receiving the data signals. Fig. 11 is an example of an image displayed on the first display unit 105 and the second display unit 106 of the information terminal 10.

[0041] The information terminal 10 is in an idle state before being lent to a customer. As shown in (a) of FIG. 11, the information terminal 10 in the idle state displays a start button BTa on the second display unit 106. Also, a message urging the customer to touch the start button BTa, for example, "Please touch start," is displayed on the first display unit 105. Then, the customer who has been lent the information terminal 10 together with the shopping basket 50 attaches the information terminal 10 to the edge 52 of the shopping basket 50, and then touches the start button BTa to declare the start of shopping.

[0042] The message may be scrolled from right to left or left to right when viewed from the front of first display unit 105. Alternatively, the message may be made to stand out by blinking. This type of message display format is also applicable to other messages described below.

[0043] 9, the processor 11 of the information terminal 10 in the idle state waits for the start button BTa to be pressed as ACT1. When the processor 11 detects that the start button BTa has been pressed by a signal from the second display unit 106, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT2. The processor 11 wirelessly transmits a start command COMa from the wireless unit 13 as ACT2.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 10, the start command COMa is sent to the POS server 30. The start command COMa includes the terminal ID of the information terminal 10. Each information terminal 10 has a unique terminal ID set in the memory 12, and each information terminal 10 can be individually identified by this terminal ID. Upon receiving the start command COMa, the POS server 30 creates a transaction file 33 as ACT21. Then, the POS server 30 writes the terminal ID acquired from the start command COMa in the transaction file 33. The POS server 30 also sends an initialization command COMb to the information terminal 10 that sent the start command.

[0045] After transmitting the start command COMa, the processor 11 waits for an initialization command COMb in ACT3. When the initialization command COMb is received via the wireless unit 13, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT4. The processor 11 controls the initial display in ACT4. That is, as shown in FIG. 11(b), the processor 11 displays an icon ICa indicating that shopping is in progress and the total amount of the transaction in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105. Because the total amount is zero at this point before the shopping, the processor 11 displays "¥0" in the first area 1051. The processor 11 also displays a message prompting the customer to start shopping, such as "Please start shopping," in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105. The processor 11 then erases the start button BTa that was displayed on the second display unit 106.

[0046] As described above, the customer who has checked the message walks around the sales floor where products are displayed, holding the shopping basket 50 to which the information terminal 10 is attached, or placing the shopping basket 50 in a shopping cart. When the customer finds a product they wish to purchase, a so-called purchased product, they place the purchased product into the shopping basket 50. At this time, the image of the purchased product is captured by the imaging unit 107.

[0047] After controlling the initial display, processor 11 waits for the purchased item to be captured by imaging unit 107 in ACT5. For example, processor 11 stores the image captured by imaging unit 107 when it receives the initialization command as a default image. The purchased item is not captured in the default image. Processor 11 compares the image captured by imaging unit 107 with the default image. If the captured image is different from the default image, processor 11 recognizes that the purchased item has been captured. Processor 11 proceeds to ACT6. Processor 11 wirelessly transmits recognition command COMc from wireless unit 13 in ACT6.

[0048] 10, the recognition command COMc is transmitted to the POS server 30. The recognition command COMc includes data of the image captured by the imaging unit 107. It also includes the terminal ID of the information terminal 10. Upon receiving the recognition command COMc, the POS server 30 executes product recognition processing by the image recognition engine 34 as ACT22. If the purchased product cannot be recognized, the POS server 30 waits for the next recognition command COMc.

[0049] In this way, the POS server 30 repeats the commodity recognition process by the image recognition engine 34 every time it receives a recognition command from the information terminal 10. As a result, when the purchased commodity is recognized, the POS server 30 executes the commodity registration process as ACT 23. That is, the POS server 30 registers the sales data of the purchased commodity recognized by the commodity recognition process in the transaction file 33 in which the terminal ID included in the recognition command COMc is written.

[0050] After completing the product registration process, the POS server 30 sends a registration command COMd ​​to the information terminal 10 that sent the recognition command. The registration command COMd ​​includes the sales price and image of the purchased product. It also includes the total price calculated based on the sales data of each purchased product registered in the transaction file 33.

[0051] After transmitting the recognition command COMc, the processor 11 waits for the registration command COMd ​​in ACT 7. If the registration command COMd ​​is not received, the processor 11 returns to ACT 5. The processor 11 again transmits the recognition command COMc including the captured image of the purchased product to the POS server 30.

[0052] When the registration command COMd ​​is received, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT8. The processor 11 controls the registration display in ACT8. That is, as shown in FIG. 11(c), the processor 11 displays the sales price (700) of the purchased item in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105, and displays an image MAa of the purchased item on the second display unit 106. At this time, the processor 11 displays the sales price (700) close to the first area 1051. The processor 11 then displays a sign (+) indicating addition between the total price (¥0) and the sales price (700) displayed in the first area 1051. That is, the processor 11 controls the display on the first display unit 105 like a mathematical formula indicating that the sales price (700) of the purchased item is added to the total price (¥0) before the purchased item was registered.

[0053] The processor 11 that controlled the registration display waits for a predetermined time to elapse as ACT9. The predetermined time is the minimum time sufficient for the customer to check the content displayed on the first display unit 105. The predetermined time is preferably about 2 or 3 seconds. The predetermined time may be less than 2 seconds or more than 3 seconds.

[0054] When a predetermined time has elapsed since controlling the registration display, processor 11 proceeds to ACT10. In ACT10, processor 11 updates the total amount. That is, as shown in FIG. 11(d), processor 11 updates the total amount displayed in first area 1051 of first display unit 105, i.e., the total amount before the purchased items were identified, to the amount obtained by adding the amount of the purchased items displayed in second area 1052 to that total amount. Processor 11 also displays a checkout button BTb on second display unit 106. Then, processor 11 displays a message in second area 1052 of first display unit 105, from which the amounts of the purchased items have been erased, urging the customer to touch the checkout button when they have finished shopping, for example, "Touch checkout if you wish to checkout."

[0055] After updating the total amount, processor 11 determines in ACT11 whether the purchased item has been photographed by imaging unit 107. If the purchased item has not been photographed, processor 11 proceeds to ACT12. In ACT12, processor 11 checks whether the checkout button BTb has been pressed. If the checkout button BTb has not been pressed, processor 11 returns to ACT11. In this way, after updating the total amount, processor 11 waits in ACT11 and ACT12 for the next purchased item to be photographed or for the checkout button BTb to be touched.

[0056] In the standby state of ACT11 and ACT12, when the image of the purchased item is captured by the imaging unit 107, the processor 11 returns to ACT6. The processor 11 executes the processes from ACT6 onwards in the same manner as described above. That is, the processor 11 transmits a recognition command COMc to the POS server 30, controls the registration display when it receives a registration command COMd ​​from the POS server 30, and updates the total amount after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0057] Every time a customer finds an item in the sales area, the customer repeatedly places the item in the shopping basket 50. By repeating this action, sales data of the purchased item identified from the image captured by the imaging unit 107 is registered in the transaction file 33. Furthermore, on the first display unit 105 of the information terminal 10, a registration display is performed like a mathematical formula indicating that the price of the purchased item is added to the total amount before registration, and after a predetermined time has passed, the total amount in the first area 1051 is updated to the total amount after registration.

[0058] When the customer has finished shopping, they touch the checkout button BTb. In the standby state of ACT11 and ACT12, when processor 11 detects that the checkout button BTb has been pressed by a signal from second display unit 106, processor 11 proceeds to ACT 13. In ACT13, processor 11 wirelessly transmits checkout command COMe from wireless unit 13.

[0059] As shown in Figure 10, the checkout command COMe is sent to the POS server 30. The checkout command COMe includes the terminal ID of the information terminal 10. Upon receiving the checkout command COMe, the POS server 30 executes the checkout process as ACT24. That is, the POS server 30 sends the data in the transaction file 33, which describes the terminal ID included in the checkout command COMe, to an available payment terminal 20. The POS server 30 then sends a notification command COMf to the information terminal 10 that sent the checkout command. The notification command COMf includes the identification number of the payment terminal 20 that sent the data in the transaction file 33.

[0060] After sending the accounting command COMe, processor 11 waits for a notification command COMf in ACT14. Then, when processor 11 receives notification command COMf via wireless unit 13, processor 11 proceeds to ACT15. In ACT15, processor 11 controls the accounting display. That is, processor 11 displays the terminal number included in notification command COMf on second display unit 106. Processor 11 may also display the terminal number on first display unit 105. Alternatively, processor 11 may display a barcode indicating the terminal number on first display unit 105 or second display unit 106.

[0061] After confirming the terminal number of the payment terminal 20, the customer proceeds to the location of the payment terminal 20 identified by that terminal number. At this time, the data in the transaction file 33, which includes sales data for the products purchased by the customer, has been sent from the POS server 30 to the payment terminal 20, so the customer performs the operation to pay for the product. In this way, the customer can settle the transaction. Note that the payment at the payment terminal 20 is the same as in existing self-service product registration systems, so a detailed explanation will be omitted here.

[0062] After controlling the transaction display, the processor 11 ends the information processing procedure shown in the flowchart of Figure 9. The information terminal 10 returns to the idle state. Here, the processor 11 realizes the function of the identification unit 111 by the processing of ACT5 to ACT7. The processor 11 realizes the function of the display control unit 112 by the processing of ACT8 to ACT10.

[0063] Next, the procedure of the product registration process executed in the POS server 30 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Once the POS server 30 has recognized the purchased product through the product recognition process, it starts the product registration process. The POS server 30 acquires the product code of the purchased product in ACT 31. The product code is obtained from the image recognition engine 34 that recognized the purchased product.

[0064] After acquiring the product code, the POS server 30 searches the product database 31 in ACT 32 to acquire product data such as the product name, regular price, discount price, discount conditions, product image, bulk sale code, and number of units sold from the product record 311 containing the acquired product code. Then, in ACT 33, the POS server 30 generates sales data for the purchased product based on the product data, including the product code, product name, regular price, discount price, discount conditions, bulk sale code, number of units sold, number of units sold, and sales amount. The number of units sold is "1." If the discount conditions are not met, the sales amount is the amount obtained by multiplying the number of units sold by the regular price. If the discount conditions are met, the sales amount is the amount obtained by multiplying the number of units sold by the discount price.

[0065] After generating the sales data, the POS server 30 proceeds to ACT 34. In ACT 34, the POS server 30 acquires the terminal ID of the information terminal 10 from the recognition command COMc. Then, in ACT 35, the POS server 30 selects a transaction file 33 in which the terminal ID is described. In ACT 36, the POS server 30 registers the sales data generated in the processing of ACT 33 into the selected transaction file 33.

[0066] After completing the sales data registration process, the POS server 30 proceeds to ACT 37. In ACT 37, the POS server 30 checks whether the purchased item is a discounted item. If the discount conditions for the purchased item are not met, the purchased item is not a discounted item. The POS server 30 proceeds to ACT 38. In ACT 38, the POS server 30 checks whether the purchased item is eligible for a bulk sale discount. If the purchased item is not eligible for a bulk sale discount, the POS server 30 proceeds to ACT 39. In ACT 39, the POS server 30 sends a first registration command COMd ​​to the information terminal 10 that sent the recognition command.

[0067] The first registration command COMd ​​includes the sales price and image of the purchased item, and a total amount after the registration process, which is the sum of the total amount before the registration process and the sales price of the purchased item. As a result, on the information terminal 10 that has received the first registration command COMd, the sales price (700) with a sign (+) indicating addition is displayed in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105, as shown in FIG. 11(c). Also, an image MAa of the purchased item is displayed on the second display unit 106. After that, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the total amount before the registration process (0) displayed in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105 is updated to the total amount after the registration process (700).

[0068] If the purchased product is a discounted product in ACT 37, the POS server 30 proceeds to ACT 40. In ACT 40, the POS server 30 transmits a second registration command COMd ​​to the information terminal 10 that transmitted the recognition command.

[0069] The second registration command COMd ​​includes the sales price and image of the purchased item, the discount amount calculated by subtracting the discount price from the sales price and multiplying the difference by the number of items sold, and the total amount after the registration process obtained by adding the sales price of the purchased item to the total amount before the registration process and then subtracting the discount amount. As a result, on the information terminal 10 that has received the second registration command COMd, as shown in FIG. 13(a), the sales price (400) with a sign (+) indicating addition and the discount amount (50) with a sign (-) indicating subtraction are displayed in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105. In addition, an image MAb of the purchased item is displayed on the second display unit 106. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the total amount before the registration process (700) displayed in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105 is updated to the total amount after the registration process (1050) as shown in FIG. 13(b). Also, the icon ICa in the first display section 105 is changed to an icon ICb indicating that the price has been discounted.

[0070] In ACT38, if the purchased item is eligible for a bulk sale discount, the POS server 30 proceeds to ACT41. In ACT41, the POS server 30 checks whether the bulk sale discount has been granted. If the number of purchased items containing the same bulk sale code equals the number of items granted, the bulk sale discount is granted. If the bulk sale discount has not been granted, the POS server 30 proceeds to ACT42. In ACT42, the POS server 30 sends a third registration command COMd ​​to the information terminal 10 that sent the recognition command.

[0071] The third registration command COMd ​​includes the sales price and image of the purchased item, the sales price of the number of items required to qualify for the bulk sale discount, the discount amount when the bulk sale discount is granted, and the total amount after the registration process, which is the total amount before the registration process plus the sales price of the purchased item. As a result, on the information terminal 10 that has received the third registration command COMd, the sales price is displayed in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105, as shown in FIG. 14(a). Furthermore, in the second area 1052, the sales price of the number of items required to qualify for the bulk sale discount is displayed in a grayed-out state with a sign (+) indicating an addition, followed by the discount amount when the bulk sale discount is granted, displayed in a grayed-out state with a sign (-) indicating a subtraction. An image MAc of the purchased item is displayed on the second display unit 106. After that, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the total amount (1050) before the registration process displayed in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105 is updated to the total amount (1350) after the registration process, although this is not shown.

[0072] If the purchased items were two items before the bulk sale discount was established, then in Figure 14(a), of the three sales amounts (300) lined up, the two sales amounts (300 + 300) following the total amount (1050) will be displayed in the normal state, and the third sales amount and discount amount will be displayed in gray.

[0073] If a bulk sale discount is established in ACT 41, the POS server 30 proceeds to ACT 43. In ACT 43, the POS server 30 transmits a fourth registration command COMd ​​to the information terminal 10 that transmitted the recognition command.

[0074] The fourth registration command COMd ​​includes the sales price and image of the purchased item, the sales price for the number of items required to qualify for the bulk sale discount, the discount amount when the bulk sale discount is granted, and the total amount after registration processing, which is the total amount excluding the items subject to the bulk sale discount, plus the sales price for the number of items for which the bulk sale discount is granted, and then minus the discount amount when the bulk sale discount is granted. As a result, on the information terminal 10 that has received the fourth registration command COMd, as shown in Figure 14(b), the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105 displays the sales price with a sign (+) indicating addition for the number of items required to qualify for the bulk sale discount, followed by the discount amount when the bulk sale discount is granted, with a sign (-) indicating subtraction. The second display unit 106 displays an image MAd of the purchased item. After that, when a predetermined time has elapsed, the total price (1050) of the purchased items excluding the items eligible for the bulk sale discount, which was displayed in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105, is updated to the total price (1850) after the bulk sale discount has been established, although this is not shown in the figure. Note that the image displayed on the second display unit 106 may be an image indicating that the bulk sale discount has been established.

[0075] After transmitting the first, second, third or fourth registration command COMd, the POS server 30 ends the product registration process.

[0076] As described above, when the information terminal 10 identifies the purchased item using the function of the identification unit 111, the display control unit 112 displays the total amount before the purchased item was registered and the sales price of the purchased item side by side on the long first display unit 105, and further displays a sign (+) indicating addition between the total amount and the sales price. Therefore, the customer can easily recognize that the total amount of the transaction is being updated, just like the mathematical formula displayed on the first display unit 105.

[0077] Furthermore, when the purchased item is a discounted item or when a bulk sale discount is granted, the information terminal 10 displays the discount amount on the first display unit 105 with a sign (-) indicating a subtraction after the sales price of the purchased item. Therefore, the customer can easily recognize that the total amount of the transaction will be discounted, just like the mathematical formula displayed on the first display unit 105. Furthermore, when the purchased item is a discounted item or when a bulk sale discount is granted, the icon ICa displayed on the first display unit 105 changes to an icon ICb indicating a discount. Therefore, the customer can know that the total amount has been discounted from the change in the icon.

[0078] <About the Information Desk> Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedure when the processor 11 functions as the guide unit 113 in the information terminal 10. Fig. 16 is a sequence diagram showing the data signals exchanged between the information terminal 10 and the POS server 30 during the information processing, and the information processing executed by the POS server 30 upon receiving the data signals. Figs. 17 and 18 are examples of images displayed on the first display unit 105 and the second display unit 106 of the information terminal 10.

[0079] When the start button BTa displayed on the second display unit 106 is pressed, the processor 11 of the information terminal 10 in the idle state starts information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15. That is, the processor 11 acquires the position data of the information terminal 10 detected by the position detection unit 14 in ACT 71. Then, the processor 11 transmits a position command COMg (see FIG. 16) including the position data to the POS server 30 in ACT 72. The processor 11 checks whether or not a guide command COMh (see FIG. 16) has been received from the POS server 30 in ACT 73. If the guide command COMh has not been received, the processor 11 returns to ACT 71. The processor 11 executes the processing from ACT 71 onwards in the same manner as described above. That is, the processor 11 repeats the processing of transmitting a position command COMg including the position data detected by the position detection unit 14 to the POS server 30 until the guide command COMh is received.

[0080] 16, upon receiving the position command COMg, the POS server 30 executes a recommendation determination process as ACT91. That is, the POS server 30 determines whether the position of the information terminal 10 specified by the position data included in the position command COMg has remained stationary for a certain period of time near any signage terminal installed in the sales floor, i.e., whether the customer who is the user of the information terminal 10 is staying near the signage terminal. If the customer is staying near the signage terminal, the POS server 30 checks whether recommendation information including the terminal ID of the signage terminal exists in the recommendation database 32. Hereinafter, recommendation information including the terminal ID of the signage terminal will be referred to as target recommendation information.

[0081] If the target recommendation information exists in the recommendation database 32, the POS server 30 transmits a guidance command COMh to the information terminal 10 that transmitted the location command. The guidance command includes a recommendation code of the target recommendation information. On the other hand, if the target recommendation information does not exist in the recommendation database 32 or if the customer is not staying near the signage terminal, the POS server 30 does not transmit the guidance command COMh.

[0082] In ACT73 of FIG. 15, when a guidance command COMh is received, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT74. The processor 11 controls the guidance start display in ACT74. That is, the processor 11 displays a guidance button BTc on the second display unit 106 as shown in FIG. 17. The processor 11 also displays a message informing customers of recommended products introduced on the signage terminal, for example, "Information about recommended products," in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105. The first area 1051 of the first display unit 105 displays the current total amount together with an icon ICa indicating that shopping is in progress. A customer who wishes to receive information about recommended products touches the guidance button BTc.

[0083] Incidentally, if a customer remains near one of the signage terminals, it is assumed that the customer is interested in the recommended products being introduced on that signage terminal. Customers who want to see the recommended products will touch the Information button BTc. Other customers will not touch the Information button BTc.

[0084] The processor 11, which has controlled the guidance start display, proceeds to ACT75. The processor 11 checks in ACT75 whether the guidance button BTc has been pressed. If the guidance button BTc has not been pressed, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT76. In ACT76, the processor 11 checks whether the information terminal 10 has moved a certain distance or more from the location where the guidance command COMh was received. If the information terminal 10 has not moved a certain distance or more, the processor 11 returns to ACT75. In this way, the processor 11, which has controlled the guidance start display, waits in ACT75 and ACT76 for the guidance button BTc to be pressed or for the information terminal 10 to move a certain distance or more.

[0085] In the standby state of ACT75 and ACT76, if the information terminal 10 moves a certain distance or more, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT77. The processor 11 erases the guidance start display in ACT77. Thereafter, the processor 11 returns to ACT71. The processor 11 executes the processes from ACT71 onwards in the same manner as described above.

[0086] Therefore, if the customer moves away from the signage terminal without touching the guidance button BTc, the guidance start display is erased. After that, if the customer stays near one of the signage terminals again, the guidance button BTc is displayed on the second display unit 106 of the information terminal 10.

[0087] In the standby state of ACT75 and ACT76, when the processor 11 detects that the guide button BTc has been pressed by a signal from the second display unit 106, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT78. The processor 11 transmits a confirmation command COMi to the POS server 30 in ACT78.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 16, upon receiving the confirmation command COMi, the POS server 30 executes a destination setting process as ACT92. That is, the POS server 30 sets product position data from the target recommendation information. Then, the POS server 30 determines the direction of movement from the position of the information terminal 10 specified by the position data included in the latest position command COMg to the position of the recommended product specified by the product position data. The POS server 30 transmits a destination command COMj to the information terminal 10 that transmitted the confirmation command. The destination command COMj includes the product position data of the target recommendation information and data indicating the direction of movement from the position of the information terminal 10 to the position of the recommended product specified by the product position data.

[0089] The processor 11 of the information terminal 10 that sent the confirmation command COMi in ACT78 of FIG. 15 proceeds to ACT79. The processor 11 waits for a destination command COMj in ACT79. When the destination command COMj is received via the wireless unit 13, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT90. The processor 11 controls the guidance display in ACT80. That is, the processor 11 displays a dot mark MKa in the center of the second display unit 106, as shown in (a) of FIG. 18. The dot mark MKa indicates the current location of the customer who is the user of the information terminal 10. The processor 11 also displays an arrow mark MKb on the outer periphery of the second display unit 106. The arrow mark MKb indicates the direction of movement from the customer's current location to the location of the recommended product. Therefore, the customer can reach the sales point of the recommended product by moving within the store in the direction indicated by the arrow mark MKb.

[0090] After controlling the guidance display in ACT80 of Fig. 15, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT81. In ACT81, the processor 11 waits for the customer, who is the user of the information terminal 10, to arrive at the position of the recommended product specified by the product position data. When the position detected by the position detection unit 14 overlaps with the position of the recommended product, the processor 11 determines that the customer has arrived at the position of the recommended product.

[0091] When the customer arrives at the location of the recommended product, processor 11 proceeds to ACT82. Processor 11 controls the arrival display in ACT82. That is, processor 11 displays an arrival mark MKc in the center of second display unit 106, as shown in (b) of FIG. 18. The arrival mark MKc indicates that the customer has arrived at the sales location of the recommended product. Customers who arrive at the sales location can check the recommended product that was introduced on the signage terminal.

[0092] After controlling the arrival display in ACT82 of FIG. 15, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT83. In ACT83, the processor 11 waits for the information terminal 10 to move a certain distance or more from the position specified by the destination command COMj. When the information terminal 10 has moved a certain distance or more, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT84. In ACT84, the processor 11 erases the arrival display. Thereafter, the processor 11 returns to ACT71. The processor 11 executes the processes from ACT71 onwards in the same manner as described above. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 16, a position command COMg is sent from the information terminal 10 to the POS server 30, and the recommendation determination process is executed again in the POS server 30.

[0093] As described above, when the customer, who is the user, stays near the recommendation terminal, the information terminal 10 displays a guidance start display using the second display unit 106. Here, when the customer touches the guidance button BTc, the information terminal 10 displays a guidance display using the second display unit 106. Then, when the customer reaches the position indicated by the guidance display, the information terminal 10 displays an arrival display using the second display unit 106. Therefore, the customer can easily reach the sales point of the recommended product that interests them by moving according to the display on the second display unit 106.

[0094] [Other embodiments] The display examples of first display unit 105 and second display unit 106 in information terminal 10 are not limited to those described above. FIG. 19(a) shows a display example in which two identical items are simultaneously identified from an image captured by the imaging unit 107. In this case, the price of the purchased item (700) is displayed in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105 with a positive sign (+). The second display unit 106 displays an image MAa of the purchased item along with a mark MKd indicating that two items have been identified. After a predetermined time has elapsed, as shown in FIG. 19(b), the price of the two purchased items is added to the total price displayed in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105 before the two purchased items were identified. In other words, the total price is updated from "¥0" to "¥1400."

[0095] FIG. 20 shows a display example in which two different purchased items are simultaneously identified from an image captured by the imaging unit 107. In this case, the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105 displays the prices of each purchased item (300, 200), each with a positive sign (+). The screen of the second display unit 106 is divided into two, with images MAe and MAf of each purchased item displayed in each. After a predetermined time has passed, the prices of each purchased item are added to the total price displayed in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105 before the two purchased items were identified. In other words, the total price is updated from "¥1,400" to "¥1,900."

[0096] The same applies when three or four different items are specified at the same time. That is, the price of each purchased item is displayed with a positive sign (+) in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105. The screen of the second display unit 106 is divided into three or four sections, and an image of each purchased item is displayed in each section.

[0097] Incidentally, the imaging unit 107 can capture images of not only purchased items that a customer has put into the shopping basket 50, but also returned items that the customer has taken out of the shopping basket 50. Therefore, for example, when the identification unit 111 identifies this returned item, the information terminal 10 displays the price of the returned item in the second area 1052 of the first display unit 105 with a sign (-) indicating a subtraction. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the total amount displayed in the first area 1051 is updated to an amount that is reduced by the price of the returned item. The information terminal 10 may perform such display control.

[0098] 21(a) to 21(d) are transition diagrams illustrating another embodiment of updating the total amount displayed in the first area 1051 of the first display unit 105 to an amount obtained by adding the sales amount of the purchased items displayed in the second area 1052 to the total amount. In FIG. 21(a), the total amount is shown before the addition, FIG. 21(b) shows the state after the hundreds digit of the sales amount has been added to the total amount, FIG. 21(c) shows the state after the tens digit of the sales amount has been added to the total amount, and FIG. 21(d) shows the state after the ones digit of the sales amount has been added to the total amount. That is, in this other embodiment, when adding the total amount displayed in the first area 1051 and the amount of the purchased items displayed in the second area 1052, the amounts of the purchased items are added while moving closer to the total amount. This dynamically updates the total amount, allowing the customer to clearly recognize that the display showing the total amount is being updated.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the image captured by the imaging unit 107 of the information terminal 10 is recognized by the image recognition engine 34 of the POS server 30 to identify the purchased item, and sales data of the purchased item is registered. In this regard, the processor 11 of the information terminal 10 may recognize a barcode from the image captured by the imaging unit 107 to identify the purchased item, and sales data of the purchased item may be registered. The information terminal 10 may be provided with a scanner capable of reading barcodes instead of the imaging unit 107.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the information terminal 10 is a stick-shaped terminal attached to a dedicated shopping basket 50. The information terminal 10 may be, for example, a smartphone owned by a customer, a handheld terminal or a rental smartphone loaned by a store, a tablet terminal attached to a shopping cart, or a mobile terminal TM (see FIG. 22) used in existing self-service product registration systems. That is, as shown in FIG. 22, one line ARa on the display screen DP of the mobile terminal TM is displayed in the same format as the first display unit 105. This makes it easier for customers to recognize that the display showing the total amount of a transaction is updated each time a purchased item in the transaction is identified. Furthermore, since the total amount and the prices of the purchased items can be displayed on one line, there is also the advantage that the remaining area ARb on the display screen DP can be effectively utilized.

[0101] Furthermore, the display mode described in the above embodiment does not necessarily have to be applied to the information terminal 10 used by customers when shopping around the store. For example, the display mode described in the above embodiment can be applied to an information terminal such as a registration terminal installed at the checkout counter and accepting registration operations for purchased items by a store clerk, or a self-service POS terminal that accepts registration operations for purchased items and checkout operations by customers themselves. That is, in response to registration operations for purchased items by a store clerk or a customer, the total amount and the prices of the purchased items may be displayed in one line on a display for the store clerk or a customer display unit provided for the customer.

[0102] In the above embodiment, the information terminal 10 is intended to be usable by an unspecified number of customers. In this regard, the information terminal 10 may be made a member-only terminal by linking the customer's membership information to the information terminal 10 when the customer enters the store. One possible method for linking the membership information to the information terminal 10 is to capture an image of the membership card with the imaging unit 107, identify the customer from the membership code displayed on the membership card, and link the information to the information terminal 10. By linking the membership information to the information terminal 10, for example, when providing recommended information, it is possible to provide recommended products that match the customer's preferences. It is also possible to settle commercial transactions using a payment app installed on the customer's smartphone.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the POS server 30 is provided with the transaction file 33 and the image recognition engine 34. In another embodiment, each information terminal 10 may be provided with the transaction file 33 and the image recognition engine 34. Furthermore, the information terminal 10 may omit the function of the guide unit 113.

[0104] 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 of the invention and the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 1...Self-service product registration system, 10...information terminal, 11...processor, 12...memory, 13...wireless unit, 14...location detection unit, 20...payment terminal, 30...POS server, 31...product database, 32...recommendation database, 33...transaction file, 34...image recognition engine, 50...shopping basket, 105...first display unit, 106...second display unit, 107...imaging unit, 111...identification unit, 112...display control unit, 113...guidance unit.

Claims

1. an identification unit that identifies purchased products related to commercial transactions; a display unit including a first area for displaying a total amount of the transaction and a second area for displaying the amount of the purchased product, and displaying the amount of the purchased product identified in the identification unit in the second area with a sign indicating addition added after the total amount before the purchased product was identified in the identification unit displayed in the first area; An information terminal equipped with the above.

2. 2. The information terminal according to claim 1, wherein, when the purchased item identified by the identification unit is a discounted item, the display unit displays the discount amount in the second area by adding a symbol indicating a subtraction after the price of the purchased item.

3. 2. The information terminal according to claim 1, wherein when a plurality of purchase items are identified by the identification unit, the display unit sequentially displays the prices of the plurality of purchase items in the second area, each with a symbol indicating an addition.

4. 2. The information terminal of claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the amount of the purchased item identified by the identification unit in the second area, and then updates the total amount displayed in the first area to the amount obtained by adding the amount of the purchased item displayed in the second area to the total amount.

5. 5. The information terminal according to claim 4, wherein when adding up the amount of the purchased items displayed in the second area to the total amount displayed in the first area, the display unit adds up the amounts of the purchased items by moving them closer to the total amount.

6. 2. The information terminal according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is capable of displaying a message to the target of the transaction when the price of the purchased item identified by the identification unit is not displayed in the second area.

7. a second display unit that displays an image of the purchased product identified by the identification unit; 7. The information terminal according to claim 1, further comprising:

8. A computer of an information terminal having a display unit, A function to identify purchased items in a commercial transaction; a function of displaying the total amount of the transaction in a first area of ​​the display unit; and a function of, when the purchased product is identified, adding a sign indicating addition after the total amount before the identified purchased product is identified in the first area, and displaying the amount of the identified purchased product in the second area of ​​the display unit; A program to achieve this.

Images