Sales data processing system, sales data processing device and program

Abstract

To enable a degree of freedom of work sharing applied to order reception that uses stock sharing of a plurality of locations.SOLUTION: A sales data processing system comprises: a customer terminal configured to receive operation performed by a customer, and including a presentation unit for selectably presenting information on products included in integrated stock information acquired from a database storing the integrated stock information being information on the products stocked in one or more locations, an order reception unit for receiving a selection and an order of the product on the basis of the information presented by the presentation unit, and an output unit for outputting a printed medium including identification information of the order received by the order reception unit and identification information of the product associated with the order; a sales data processor configured to acquire the identification information of the product from the printed medium and perform settlement processing of payment for the product associated with the order; and a clerk terminal configured to receive operation performed by a clerk, and including an input unit for acquiring the identification information of the order from the printed medium and receiving an input of an orderer of the order.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a sales data processing system, a sales data processing device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is a system for sharing inventory status at multiple locations (for example, Patent Document 1). In recent years, a service has been provided in which customers who visit a store place orders for products in stock at other stores or warehouses in the same chain.

[0003] The above-mentioned conventional services are implemented by store clerks. That is, the store clerk identifies the product information the customer wants by listening to the customer, and then handles the payment and delivery procedures. However, implementing the service using the above-mentioned procedures places a lot of work on the store clerk, and for the customer, communicating with the store clerk can be stressful and difficult, which can result in missed sales opportunities. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to improve the degree of freedom in dividing up work involved in order reception using inventory sharing among multiple bases. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The sales data processing system of the embodiment includes a customer terminal that receives operations from customers and includes: a sales data processing device that receives the identification information of the product from the print medium and processes payment for the product related to the order; and a clerk terminal that receives operations from clerks and includes an input unit that receives the identification information of the order from the print medium and receives input of information about the person placing the order. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device configuration of a sales data processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a self-service terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of another self-service terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of how an order is confirmed at the checkout counter. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the store clerk terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the self-terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the store clerk terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a POS terminal. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the sales data processing system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the flow of processing in the sales data processing system. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self-service terminal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] (First embodiment) An embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of a sales data processing system in an embodiment. The sales data processing system includes a self-service terminal 1, a store clerk terminal 3, a POS terminal 5, a warehouse terminal 7, a cloud service 8, a DB (Database) 9, etc.

[0008] Here, "POS" is an abbreviation for "Point Of Sale" and means "point of sale information management." The self-service terminal 1, the store clerk terminal 3, and the POS terminal 5 are examples of sales data processing devices that perform point of sale information management.

[0009] The self-service terminal 1, the clerk terminal 3, and the POS terminal 5 are connected to a cloud service 8 via a network 2. The warehouse terminal 7 is connected to the cloud service 8 via a network 6.

[0010] The cloud service 8 provides a functional unit that mediates the exchange of information between the DB 9 and external devices (e.g., the self-service terminal 1, the store clerk terminal 3, the POS terminal 5, and the warehouse terminal 7). This functional unit is realized, for example, by an API (Application Programming Interface) provided by the cloud service 8.

[0011] DB9 stores integrated inventory information. Integrated inventory information is information on products that are in stock or planned to be in stock at one or more locations. In other words, the integrated inventory information stores information on products that are scheduled to be released in addition to information on products currently on sale. Integrated inventory information is used to share inventory (or planned inventory) at multiple locations, and aggregates information on products that are in stock (or planned to be in stock) at stores and warehouses included in the group. This type of integrated inventory information makes it possible to centrally manage the group's inventory information.

[0012] The self-service terminal 1 is an example of a customer terminal that accepts operations by customers. The self-service terminal 1 is a terminal device that is installed in a store and configured to be operated by customers who visit the store, and accepts operations for searching for and placing orders for products from inventory at multiple locations (integrated inventory information).

[0013] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the self-service terminal 110. The self-service terminal 110 is an example of the self-service terminal 1, and is similar to a so-called kiosk terminal, and includes a touch panel display device 111, a scanner 112, and a printer 113.

[0014] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of another self-service terminal 120. This self-service terminal 120 is another example of the self-service terminal 1, and is composed of a tablet terminal 121 and a small printer 123. The tablet terminal 121 is equipped with a camera 122. In this illustrated example, the tablet terminal 121 is attached to a wall 129 inside the store, and the printer 123 is placed on a stand 128 provided below the tablet terminal 121.

[0015] The self-service terminal 1 (110, 120) described above can obtain product information from the integrated inventory information in the DB 9. A customer inputs information into the self-service terminal 1 to order a desired product, and receives (outputs) a slip (printed medium) on which the information related to the order is printed.

[0016] The clerk terminal 3 is a terminal device operated by a clerk, and is preferably a portable terminal device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal, but may also be an information processing device such as a PC (Personal Computer).Furthermore, the clerk terminal 3 is preferably equipped with or connectable to an imaging unit (camera, scanner, etc.) to make it easier to obtain the information indicated by the code symbol.

[0017] 4 shows an example of how an order is confirmed at checkout counter 500. A POS terminal 5 is installed at checkout counter 500, and a store clerk 501 operates it. A customer 503 visiting checkout counter 500 hands a receipt 510 issued by self-service terminal 1 to store clerk 501.

[0018] The slip 510 displays code symbols 511 and 512, such as barcodes or two-dimensional codes. The code symbol 511 is encoded identification information for the order. The code symbol 512 is encoded identification information for the product. If the slip 510 is for an order for multiple products, multiple code symbols 512 are printed. Note that in practice, one code symbol 512 may include identification information for multiple products.

[0019] The store clerk 501 reads the code symbol 512 displayed on the slip 510 into the POS terminal 5. The POS terminal 5 then acquires the identification information of the ordered product and receives payment for the order from the customer. Payment here is not limited to cash, and can be made by credit card, electronic money, or the like.

[0020] Next, the store clerk 501 has the store clerk terminal 3 read the code symbol 511. As a result, the store clerk terminal 3 acquires the order identification information and accepts additional input of information related to the order. The information added here is, for example, as described below.

[0021] 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen 350 displayed by the store clerk terminal 3. The screen 350 is a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving additional input of information related to a customer's order. The screen 350 includes operators 351 to 355, input fields 356 and 357, input fields 361 to 365, and operators 366 and 367.

[0022] When the operator 351 is operated, the clerk terminal 3 ends the function of registering information related to the order. When the operator 352 is operated, the clerk terminal 3 stops the additional input of information related to the order indicated by the code symbol 511. When the operator 355 is operated, the clerk terminal 3 stores the information indicated on the screen 350 in a predetermined storage unit (for example, DB9) as information related to the order indicated by the code symbol 511.

[0023] Operator 353 indicates the payment status (paid or unpaid) of the order indicated by code symbol 511, and also accepts manual changes. Operator 354 indicates the setting status of the product receiving method (in-store or delivery), and also accepts manual changes.

[0024] Input fields 361 to 365 are for inputting orderer information. The orderer information is information about the customer who placed the order, such as the customer's name and contact information.

[0025] The input field 361 accepts input of the identification information of the customer who placed the order. The customer identification information is given when the customer becomes a member of the store, and is unique among members, and is represented by, for example, a number or symbol. The customer identification information is indicated on a membership card or the like as character information or a code symbol (such as a barcode or two-dimensional code). When an operator 366 provided adjacent to the input field 361 is operated, the store clerk terminal 3 activates its own imaging unit (such as a camera), reads (decodes) the captured code symbol to obtain information, and enters the obtained information into the input field 361.

[0026] If the customer is not a member of the store or does not present a membership card, no input is made in input field 361. Furthermore, when customer identification information (member ID, described later) is entered in input field 361, it is preferable to obtain customer information stored in association with the member ID from a predetermined storage unit, and fill in each of input fields 362 to 365 with the obtained information.

[0027] Input field 362 is a field where the customer's name is entered. Input field 363 is a field where the customer's phone number is entered. Input into input fields 362 and 363 is mandatory, and if these fields are left blank, operator 355 is inoperable.

[0028] The postal code of the customer's address is input into input field 364. The address of the customer is input into input field 365. When operator 367 is operated, clerk terminal 3 automatically inputs the address indicated by the postal code input into input field 364 into input field 365.

[0029] When the identification information of a member customer is entered in input field 361, and the information to be entered in input fields 362 to 365 can be obtained from the member information, the information may be automatically obtained and entered. The member information is stored in a predetermined storage unit (e.g., DB9). The member information may be, for example, a name, contact information (telephone number, address), etc., associated with the identification information.

[0030] The input field 356 is a field for entering messages and notes, and the input field 357 is a field for entering remarks.

[0031] The POS terminal 5 is installed at the checkout counter of a store and is operated by a store clerk to input information about products to be sold, deposit the payment for products received from customers, and dispense change.

[0032] The warehouse terminal 7 is installed in the warehouse, backyard, etc., and is operated by warehouse employees to input information related to changes in inventory in the warehouse. This input is reflected in the integrated inventory information.

[0033] The cloud service 8 updates the information stored in the DB 9 based on information input to the self-service terminal 1, the clerk terminal 3, the POS terminal 5, the warehouse terminal 7, etc. The cloud service 8 also returns the information stored in the DB 9 in response to a request from the self-service terminal 1, the clerk terminal 3, the warehouse terminal 7, etc.

[0034] The integrated inventory information stored in the DB9 is stored in the form of a table, for example, and includes the following items: Location ID ·Product information ·Quantity in stock Stock limit

[0035] The base ID is information that is assigned to each base (store or warehouse) included in the group and is unique within the group. Within the group, the base ID can be used to identify a store or warehouse (i.e., the base ID is the identification information for the base). Other information items (product information, inventory quantity, minimum inventory value, etc.) are stored in association with the base ID.

[0036] The product information further includes, for example, the following items: Product code ·Product name ·color ·size ·unit price

[0037] A product code is information (product identification information) that is unique among different products and allows a product to be identified, such as a JAN code. Other product information (product name, color, size, unit price, etc.) is stored in association with the product code. Note that the product code may include color information or size information, for example, in the lower digits.

[0038] The "Product Name" field records the name of the product. The "Color" field records the name of the product's color and information such as the symbols and numbers assigned to each color. The "Size" field records information such as symbols and numbers indicating the size of the product. The "Unit Price" field records information such as a number indicating the price of one product.

[0039] The stock quantity is the quantity of the product indicated by the product code that is in stock at the location indicated by the location ID. The stock minimum is the value at which the product indicated by the product code is switched to being out of stock at the location indicated by the location ID. For example, if the stock minimum is "3", the product will be switched to being out of stock when the stock quantity drops from "4" to "3". In other words, for example, the display on at least the self-service terminal 1 will be switched to being out of stock, and orders will not be accepted at the self-service terminal 1.

[0040] Furthermore, the DB 9 of this embodiment stores member information in the form of a table, for example. The member information is information about customers who have become members of the store, and includes the following items: Member ID ·full name ·contact address

[0041] A member ID is information assigned to each member that is unique among members. The member ID can be used to identify the member (i.e., the member ID is the identification information of the customer who is a member). Other information items (such as name and contact information) are stored in association with the member ID. Contact information includes, for example, a phone number, address, and email address.

[0042] Furthermore, the DB 9 of this embodiment stores order information in the form of a table, for example. The order information is information related to orders accepted by the sales data processing system of this embodiment, and includes, for example, the following items: Order code Product code ·quantity Amount Payment status (completed or pending) Pick-up method (in-store or delivery) Orderer information

[0043] The order code is information that is unique across different orders and allows an order to be identified (order identification information). Other information (product code, quantity, price, payment status, delivery method, orderer information, etc.) is stored in association with the order code. One or more product codes and quantities may be associated with one order code.

[0044] In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, the integrated inventory information, member information, and order information are stored in the same DB9, but in practice, the integrated inventory information, member information, and order information do not need to be stored in the same storage device and may be stored in different storage devices. Also, while the integrated inventory information needs to be stored in DB9 that can be accessed from multiple locations, the member information and order information may be stored in an information processing device provided in each store and managed by each store.

[0045] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of each terminal included in the sales data processing system will be described.

[0046] 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the self-service terminal 1. The self-service terminal 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a communication unit 14, a display unit 15, an operation unit 16, an audio output unit 17, an imaging unit 18, a storage unit 19, and a printer 20.

[0047] The CPU 11 is an example of a processor and controls all the components of the self-terminal 1. The ROM 12 stores various programs. The RAM 13 is a workspace for storing programs and various data. The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are connected via a bus or the like to form a control unit 10 having a computer configuration.

[0048] The communication unit 14 is a communication interface that connects the control unit 10 to the outside (for example, the cloud service 8 or the DB 9) via the network 2 so that communication is possible.

[0049] The display unit 15 has a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and displays various information for the operator (mainly the customer) under the control of the CPU 51. The operation unit 16 has a touch panel provided over the surface of the display unit 55, as well as input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device, and outputs operation contents input via the input devices to the CPU 51.

[0050] 2 includes a display device 111 with a touch panel, which corresponds to the display unit 15, and the touch panel corresponds to the operation unit 16. Also, a tablet terminal 121 constituting the self-terminal 120 shown in FIG. 3 has the functions of both the display unit 15 and the operation unit 16.

[0051] The audio output unit 17 has a speaker and a buzzer, and outputs audio under the control of the control unit 10.

[0052] The imaging unit 18 is, for example, a type of digital camera, and is equipped with an image sensor (image pickup element) or the like, which receives light reflected from an object and outputs image data. Here, the control unit 10 (described later, see FIG. 9) performs a reading process to acquire information from the image data output by the imaging unit 18. The reading process is a process of extracting and decoding a code symbol from the image data output by the imaging unit 18. Through this reading process, the control unit 10 acquires the product code indicated by the code symbol attached to the product.

[0053] Here, the scanner 112 provided in the self-service terminal 110 shown in FIG. 2 and the camera 122 provided in the tablet terminal 121 shown in FIG.

[0054] Printer 20 prints and issues slip 510. Printer 20 is equipped with a print head and a platen roller, and contains a roll of paper on which a strip of print medium (e.g., thermal paper) is wound. The print head is equipped with multiple heating elements arranged in parallel. Printer 20 sandwiches the print medium pulled out from the roll of paper between the print head and the platen roller, transports the print medium by rotating the platen roller, and prints on the print medium by selectively driving the heating elements while transporting it.

[0055] The storage unit 19 has a non-volatile storage medium such as an HDD, SSD, or flash memory, and maintains its stored contents even when the power is cut off. The storage unit 19 stores a program 191 executable by the CPU 11, various setting information, etc. The program 191 is application software for causing the self-terminal 1 to function. When the CPU 11 executes the program 191, the control unit 10 realizes various functional units (described later, see FIG. 9).

[0056] 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the store clerk terminal 3. This diagram shows a case where the store clerk terminal 3 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone.

[0057] The store clerk terminal 3 includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a communication unit 34, a display unit 35, an operation unit 36, a voice output unit 37, an imaging unit 38, a storage unit 39, and the like.

[0058] The CPU 31, ROM 32, RAM 33, control unit 30, and storage unit 39 correspond to the above-mentioned CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, control unit 10, and storage unit 19, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0059] The communication unit 34 is a communication interface that connects the control unit 30 to the outside (for example, the cloud service 8 or the DB 9) via the network 2 so that communication is possible.

[0060] The display unit 35 has a display device such as an LCD, and displays various information under the control of the CPU 31. The operation unit 36 ​​has an input device such as a touch panel that is provided on top of the surface of the display unit 35, and outputs operation details input via the input device to the CPU 31.

[0061] The audio output unit 37 has a speaker and a buzzer, and outputs audio under the control of the control unit 30.

[0062] The imaging unit 38 is a digital camera equipped with an image sensor (image pickup element) or the like, and is a device that receives light reflected from an object and outputs image data. The control unit 30 has a functional unit that extracts and decodes a code symbol from the image data output by the imaging unit 38, and this functional unit obtains the member ID from the code symbol shown on the membership card and the order code from the code symbol 511 shown on the slip 510.

[0063] The storage unit 39 stores a program 391 that can be executed by the CPU 31. When the CPU 31 executes the program 391, the control unit 30 realizes various functional units (described later, see FIG. 9).

[0064] 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the POS terminal 5. The POS terminal 5 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, a RAM 53, a communication unit 54, a display unit 55, an operation unit 56, a code scanner 57, an imaging unit 58, a memory unit 59, a cash deposit / withdrawal unit 60, a receipt printer 61, an audio output unit 62, etc.

[0065] The CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, control unit 50, and storage unit 59 correspond to the above-mentioned CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, control unit 10, and storage unit 19, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0066] The communication unit 54 is a communication interface that connects the control unit 50 to the outside (for example, the cloud service 8 or the DB 9) via the network 2 so that communication is possible.

[0067] The display unit 55 has a display device such as an LCD, and displays various information under the control of the CPU 51. The operation unit 56 has input devices such as a touch panel overlaid on the surface of the display unit 55, a keyboard, and a pointing device, and outputs operation contents input via the input devices to the CPU 51.

[0068] The code scanner 57 is a device that scans a code symbol and outputs a decoded value. Scanning means reading information from light reflected by an object (here, a code symbol). The code scanner 57 acquires a product code from a code symbol, such as a barcode or two-dimensional code, attached to a product. The code scanner 57 also decodes a code symbol in which a member ID is encoded to acquire the member ID. The code scanner 57 then acquires the product code from the code symbol 512 indicated on the slip 510.

[0069] The imaging unit 58 is a type of digital camera equipped with an image sensor (image pickup element) and receives light reflected from an object to output image data. The control unit 50 performs a reading process and a recognition process to acquire information from the image data output by the imaging unit 58. The reading process extracts and decodes a code symbol from the image data output by the imaging unit 58. Through this reading process, the control unit 50 acquires the product code indicated by the code symbol attached to the product. Through the reading process, the control unit 50 decodes the code symbol in which the member ID is encoded to acquire the member ID. The recognition process extracts an area in which the product appears from the image data output by the imaging unit 58, calculates its features, and acquires a product code associated with matching data that matches the calculated features. Through this recognition process, the control unit 50 recognizes the product based on its external appearance.

[0070] The deposit / withdrawal unit 60 is, for example, a change dispenser that stores cash (coins and bills) and receives deposits and dispenses change during the payment process. Note that the payment process may involve electronic payments such as credit card payments, electronic money payments, and code payments instead of cash payments. In this case, the control unit 50 performs the payment process by accepting input via a peripheral device (such as a payment terminal, PIN pad, or code scanner) connected via the communication unit 54.

[0071] The receipt printer 61 is a printer that primarily prints and issues receipts. The receipt printer 61 is equipped with a print head and a platen roller, and contains a roll of paper on which a strip of paper (thermal paper) is wound. The print head has multiple heating elements arranged in parallel. The receipt printer 61 pinches paper pulled from the roll between the print head and the platen roller, transports the paper by rotating the platen roller, and prints on the paper by selectively activating the heating elements as the paper is transported.

[0072] The audio output unit 62 has a speaker and a buzzer, and outputs audio under the control of the control unit 50.

[0073] The storage unit 59 stores a program 591 that can be executed by the CPU 51. When the CPU 51 executes the program 591, the control unit 50 realizes various functional units (described later, see FIG. 9).

[0074] The storage unit 59 also stores a product master 592. The product master 592 is an example of product information, and is information about products handled by a store compiled, for example, in the form of a table. The product master 592 includes, for example, the following items. Product code ·Product name ·unit price Verification data

[0075] The product code, product name, and unit price are the same as those explained in the integrated inventory information above, so they will not be explained here.

[0076] The "matching data" field records reference feature quantities. Each device that processes sales data compares the feature quantities of an image (captured image) captured and output by a camera or other device with the matching data, and obtains a product code associated with the matching matching data, thereby recognizing the product. The above-mentioned match determination may be performed, for example, by calculating the similarity between the feature quantities of the captured image and the matching data, comparing the calculated similarity with a threshold, and determining that the matching data matches if the similarity is equal to or greater than the threshold. The product code may also be obtained by reading (scanning or decoding) a code symbol, such as a barcode or two-dimensional code, attached to the product.

[0077] The storage unit 59 (or RAM 53) also stores registration information 593, which is information on products (registered products) registered as objects of trading. The registration information 593 is organized, for example, in the form of a table. The items included in the registration information 593 are, for example, as follows: Device ID Member ID Transaction ID Date and Time ·Product information Amount

[0078] The terminal ID is identification information of the sales data processing device that performed the transaction of the record. Terminal IDs are assigned so that they are unique at least within the same store.

[0079] The member ID and transaction ID are as described above. The member ID is recorded if the customer who performed the transaction in the record presents the member ID. The transaction ID is automatically assigned (numbered), for example, during the initial product registration process for the transaction.

[0080] The date and time is the date and time when the transaction of the record was made. The amount is the sales amount from the transaction of the record, which is the total price (total amount) of all the products purchased by the customer.

[0081] Here, there is one amount associated with a combination of terminal ID, transaction ID, and date and time, but the number of product information items is not limited to one and may be multiple. Product information includes, for example, the following items: Product code ·Product name ·quantity ·price

[0082] The product code is as described above. The quantity is the quantity (number, weight, volume, etc.) of the product indicated by the product code purchased in the transaction of the record. The price is the unit price (or selling price) multiplied by the quantity.

[0083] 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a sales data processing system. The control unit 10 of the self-service terminal 1 includes a product search unit 101, an order reception unit 102, and a print processing unit 105. The control unit 30 of the store clerk terminal 3 includes an order confirmation unit 301. The control unit 50 of the POS terminal 5 includes a sales registration unit 505.

[0084] The product search unit 101 is an example of a presentation unit, and presents selectable product information included in the integrated inventory information obtained from the DB 9. More specifically, the product search unit 101 transitions the display on the display unit 15 in response to an operation by the customer who is the orderer, to sequentially display screens (see FIGS. 11 to 15, described below), and also stores information, thereby presenting information on selectable products from among the products that are in stock in the integrated inventory information.

[0085] The order receiving unit 102 is an example of an order receiving unit, and receives product selection and orders based on the information presented by the product search unit 101. More specifically, the order receiving unit 102 transitions between screens in response to operations by the customer who is the orderer, sequentially displays screens for receiving orders (see Figures 16 to 18, described below) on the display unit 15, and stores the order information in DB9. At this stage, the orderer information in the order information is blank. Furthermore, the payment status and receipt method are blank or have their default values. The default value for the payment status is "unpaid," which means that the payment has not been made.

[0086] The print processing unit 105 is an example of an output unit, and outputs a print medium (slip 510) containing identification information (order code) of the order accepted by the order accepting unit 102 and identification information (product code) of the product related to the order.

[0087] The sales registration unit 505 is an example of a payment processing unit, which acquires product identification information from the print medium and performs payment processing for the product price related to the order. More specifically, the sales registration unit 505 acquires the product code from the code symbol 512 shown on the receipt 510 and registers information about the product with that product code in the registration information 593. The sales registration unit 505 then receives payment for the registered product price (the "amount" in the registration information 593) from the customer who brings the receipt 510 (payment processing). Payment can be made by depositing cash into the cash deposit / withdrawal unit 60 or by electronic payment. With the above steps, the sales are confirmed.

[0088] The order confirmation unit 301 is an example of an input unit, and acquires order identification information from a print medium and accepts input of information about the person who placed the order. More specifically, the order confirmation unit 301 acquires an order code from the code symbol 511 shown on the slip 510 and accepts input of information about the customer who placed the order indicated by the order code (orderer information). Once all the necessary information is collected, the order confirmation unit 301 accepts an operation to confirm the order, updates the orderer information in the order information in DB9, and confirms the order.

[0089] Figure 10 is a diagram showing the processing flow in the sales data processing system. Conventionally, a store clerk would grasp the products that a customer wanted to purchase through dialogue and then access the integrated inventory information using the store clerk terminal 3 to process the order for the stocked products. However, in this sales data processing system, the selection of products to be ordered can be received from the customer using the self-service terminal 1.

[0090] The control unit 10 of the self-service terminal 1 first functions as a product search unit 101, and in response to a customer's operation, searches for products that meet the conditions specified by the customer (step S1: product search process). When searching for products, the control unit 10 performs an integrated inventory inquiry (step S2: integrated inventory inquiry process). In the integrated inventory inquiry, the control unit 10 reads information about products that meet the customer's specified conditions from the integrated inventory information stored in DB9.

[0091] Next, the control unit 10 receives an order for the product specified by the customer (step S3: order receiving process). In step S3, an order code is assigned. Also, accompanying step S3, the control unit 10 prints and issues (outputs) a slip 510 (step S4: output process). On the slip 510, the order code assigned in step S3 and the product code of the product ordered in step S3 are printed as code symbols 511, 512.

[0092] The above steps S1 to S4 are the procedure for ordering by a customer. The following steps S5 to S8 are the procedure for in-store reservation.

[0093] A customer visits the checkout counter (see FIG. 4) with receipt 510 in hand. Customer 503 visiting checkout counter 500 hands receipt 510 issued by self-service terminal 1 to store clerk 501. Store clerk 501 has code scanner 57 (or imaging unit 58) read code symbol 512 displayed on receipt 510, and has POS terminal 5 acquire the product code.

[0094] The control unit 50 of the POS terminal 5 registers the product with the product code obtained from the slip 510 as a sale (step S5: sales registration process). In step S5, the control unit 50 updates the registration information 593 in the storage unit 59, and then performs a settlement process such as depositing the amount paid by the customer.

[0095] Next, the control unit 50 further performs an integrated inventory update process (step S6). In step S6, the control unit 50 decrements the inventory quantity stored in the integrated inventory information of the DB9 in association with the product code of the product for which payment has been completed, according to the purchase quantity (the quantity stored in association with the product code in the registration information 593).

[0096] Next, the store clerk 501 causes the image capturing unit 38 of the store clerk terminal 3 to read the code symbol 511 displayed on the slip 510, and causes the store clerk terminal 3 to acquire the order code (step S7).

[0097] When the store clerk terminal 3 acquires the order code, it acquires the order information for that order code from the integrated inventory information in DB9 and displays screen 350 on the display unit 35. The store clerk terminal 3 then accepts input of orderer information and the like via screen 350, updates the order information stored in DB9 with the accepted information, and confirms the order (step S8: order confirmation process).

[0098] When an ordered product whose receiving method setting in the order information is "visit the store" arrives at the store, the contact information in the orderer information is notified of this. The customer who receives the notification visits the store and receives the product (step S9). When an ordered product whose receiving method setting in the order information is "delivery" arrives at the store, the product is delivered to the set delivery destination. The delivery destination is, for example, the address entered in the input field 365.

[0099] 11 to 18 are diagrams showing examples of displays on the self-service terminal 1. Below, a description will be given of screens displayed on the display unit 15 in the product search process in step S1 and the order reception process in step S3.

[0100] 11 is a screen that the self-service terminal 1 in a standby state, that is, not receiving any operation from a customer, displays on the display unit 15. The screen 410 includes operators 411 and 412.

[0101] Operators 411 and 412 accept orders for products that are not currently on sale in the store. When operator 411 is operated, control unit 10 accepts reservations for products that are scheduled to be released (products that are scheduled to be in stock). When operator 412 is operated, control unit 10 accepts orders for products that are on backorder. When operators 411 and 412 are operated, control unit 10 causes display unit 15 to display screen 420, which will be described next.

[0102] 12 is a GUI for accepting the selection of a product search method. Screen 420 includes operators 421, 422, and 427 to 429. Note that when the screen transition is caused by operating operator 411, screen 420 does not include operator 422.

[0103] When the operator 421 is operated, the control unit 10 starts processing for performing a product search by narrowing down the keywords or categories. That is, the control unit 10 transitions the display on the display unit 15 from the screen 420 to the screen 430.

[0104] Furthermore, when the operator 422 is operated, the control unit 10 starts processing to acquire product information by barcode scanning. That is, the control unit changes the display on the display unit 15 from screen 420 to screen 450. The operator 422 is suitable when the product desired to be purchased (the desired product) is a product that is on sale in the store (a similar product) but in a different size or color.

[0105] When operator 427 is operated, control unit 10 returns the display on display unit 15 to the previous screen. When operator 428 is operated, control unit 10 returns the display on display unit 15 to screen 410. When operator 429 is operated, control unit 10 causes shopping cart screen 470 to be displayed on display unit 15.

[0106] 13 is a GUI for searching for products by narrowing down the search by category. Screen 430 includes operators 431 to 435 and 427 to 429. The explanation of operators 427 to 429 is omitted as it is the same as above.

[0107] The operator 431 also serves as an input field. When the operator 431 is operated, the control unit 10 requests the operator to input characters. The operator inputs a keyword in characters via the operation unit 16. The input characters are displayed on the operator 431.

[0108] When the operator 432 is operated, the control unit 10 acquires information on products that match the keyword displayed on the operator 431 from the integrated inventory information in the DB 9.

[0109] When the operator 433 is operated, the control unit 10 causes the display on the display unit 15 to transition to a screen 450.

[0110] The operator 434 accepts an operation to select a product classification such as a brand, a category, etc. When the operator 434 is operated, the control unit 10 accepts an operation to select one from a plurality of classifications and narrows down the products.

[0111] Operator 435 accepts an operation to select a product category (for example, tops or outerwear). When operator 435 is operated, control unit 10 displays products classified into the category corresponding to the selected operator 435 as options on the next screen 440.

[0112] 14 is a GUI for accepting an operation to select a product from options. Screen 440 includes operators 441, and 427 to 429. The explanation of operators 427 to 429 is omitted as it is the same as above.

[0113] For example, a plurality of operators 441 are displayed arranged in a matrix, each corresponding to a product (option). When an operator 441 is operated, the control unit 10 determines that the product associated with the operated operator 441 has been selected, and indicates that the selection has been made by adding, for example, a thick frame 442, and transitions the display on the display unit 15 to the next screen 460.

[0114] 15 is displayed, the control unit 10 acquires product information by scanning a barcode. The screen 450 includes text 451, an image 452, and controls 455, 427 to 429. The explanation of the controls 427 to 429 is omitted as it is the same as above.

[0115] When the operator 455 is operated, the control unit 10 causes the display on the display unit 15 to transition to the screen 430.

[0116] The message 451 guides the operator (customer) on the next operation to be performed, for example, "Please scan the barcode of the product." The image 452 guides the operator on the location of the scanner 112 (see FIG. 2) in the self-service terminal 1, for example.

[0117] An operator (customer) who wishes to purchase a different size or color of an item currently on sale in a store follows the instructions on screen 450 to have the imaging unit 18 (scanner 112 or camera 122) read the code symbol attached to an item that is the same as the desired item except for the color and size. This allows the control unit 10 to obtain the product code of the item desired by the customer.

[0118] When the scanner 112 (or the camera 122) acquires a product code while the screen 450 is being displayed, the control unit 10 transitions the display on the display unit 15 to the next screen 460.

[0119] Here, if the lower digits of the product code include digits indicating color information or digits indicating size information, the control unit 10 will assume that the upper digits of the product code have been specified on screen 450, and will accept an operation to specify the color or size on the next screen 460.

[0120] 16 is a GUI for accepting an operation to select the color and size of the product indicated by the specified product code and add it to the cart. Here, "add to cart" is likened to the act of putting a product into a shopping cart provided in a physical store, that is, it refers to the process of storing information about the selected product in a predetermined storage unit (e.g., storage unit 19) as an order (purchase) target.

[0121] Screen 460 includes display fields 461 and 462, and controls 463 to 466, and 427 to 429. The explanation of controls 427 to 429 is the same as above, so it will be omitted.

[0122] Display field 461 displays an image of the selected product, and display field 462 displays information (such as the name and price) of the selected product.

[0123] When operator 463 is operated, control unit 10 displays selectable color (or pattern) options for the selected product. Operator 466 displays the color (or pattern) options as an image, and is functionally identical to operator 463. When operator 464 is operated, control unit 10 displays selectable size options for the selected product. When a color or size is selected, display fields 461 and 462 are updated.

[0124] When the operator 465 is operated, the control unit 10 adds the selected product to the cart, i.e., stores the information about the product in a predetermined storage unit as an order target. In conjunction with this process, the control unit 10 transitions the display on the display unit 15 to the next screen 470.

[0125] 17 is a shopping cart screen. Screen 470 includes display fields 471 and 472, and controls 474, 475, 427, and 428. The explanation of controls 427 and 428 is the same as above, so it will be omitted.

[0126] Display field 471 displays a list of products added to the cart. Display field 472 displays the total price (total amount) of the products in the cart.

[0127] When the operator 474 is operated, the control unit 10 changes the display on the display unit 15 to the screen 430. When the operator 475 is operated, the control unit 10 changes the display on the display unit 15 to the screen 480.

[0128] 18 includes a message 481 and an operator 489. The message 481 informs the operator (customer) that the process for receiving the order has been completed and what to do next, for example, "Thank you for your order. Please bring your receipt to the register." When the operator 489 is operated, the control unit 10 returns the display on the display unit 15 to the screen 410.

[0129] Thus, according to this embodiment, when an order for a product that is not available in a store is received using integrated inventory information that shares inventory at multiple locations (stores and warehouses), the reception work, which was previously only performed by a store clerk, can now be performed by the customer themselves using the self-service terminal 1. Therefore, this embodiment improves the degree of freedom in allocating the work involved in receiving orders. This reduces the workload of store clerks in the past, and customers who are comfortable using the self-service terminal 1 can place orders without any hassle. Furthermore, this means that sales opportunities that would previously have been missed due to the need to rely on a store clerk are no longer missed, and sales opportunities can be increased.

[0130] In this embodiment, even if a product is out of stock at the store, an order is accepted from a customer if the product is in stock according to the integrated inventory information. In this regard, the system of this embodiment is configured so that order acceptance, payment, and acquisition of orderer information are performed at different terminals. This is because the self-service terminal 1 that accepts orders is installed in a location where any customer in the store can easily operate it, and it may not be appropriate to accept input of personal information such as name and contact information at the self-service terminal 1. Similarly, it may not be appropriate to accept payment operations at such a self-service terminal 1. This embodiment allows input at an appropriate location depending on the content of the information being handled, which is advantageous in preventing unexpected information leaks and the like. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when an order is received in a store using information accessible in the store, the operation of a store clerk is required, which is expected to have the effect of preventing fraud.

[0131] The above-described embodiment can be modified as needed by changing part of the configuration or function of each of the above-described devices.

[0132] For example, the order of the sales registration process (step S5) by the POS terminal 5 and the order confirmation process (step S8) by the store clerk terminal 3 may be reversed. In other words, the order may be confirmed by asking the customer for their address, etc., before payment is received.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the details of an order accepted at the self-service terminal 1 are stored in DB9 as order information, and the order information is updated at the clerk terminal 3, but this is not a limitation in implementation. For example, when an order is accepted at the self-service terminal 1, the order information may not be generated and stored in DB9, but only the slip 510 may be printed and issued, and the order information may be generated and stored in DB9 when the slip 510 is read by the clerk terminal 3.

[0134] The programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments are provided in advance in a ROM, etc. The programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments may be provided by being recorded in an installable or executable file format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a digital versatile disk (DVD).

[0135] Furthermore, the programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, the programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0136] 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, modifications, and combinations 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]

[0137] 1...Self-service terminal, 110...self-service terminal, 111...touch panel display device, 112...scanner, 113...printer, 120...Self-device, 121...Tablet device, 122...Camera, 123...printer, 128...stand, 129...wall, 10...control unit, 101...product search unit, 102...order reception unit, 105...print processing unit, 11...CPU, 12...ROM, 13...RAM, 14...Communication section, 15...display unit, 16...operation unit, 17...audio output unit, 18...imaging unit, 20...printer, 19...memory unit, 191...program, 2...Network, 3... clerk terminal, 30... control unit, 301... order confirmation unit, 31...CPU, 32...ROM, 33...RAM, 34...Communication section, 35...display unit, 36...operation unit, 37...audio output unit, 38...imaging unit, 39...Memory unit, 391...Program, 350...screen, 351~355...operators, 356,357...input fields, 361 to 365...input field, 366, 367...operator, 5...POS terminal, 50...control unit, 505...sales registration unit, 51...CPU, 52...ROM, 53...RAM, 54...Communication section, 55...display unit, 56...operation unit, 57...code scanner, 58...imaging unit, 60... deposit and withdrawal unit, 61... receipt printer, 62... audio output unit, 59...storage unit, 591...program, 592...product master, 593...registration information, 410...screen, 411, 412...operators, 420...screen, 421, 422, 427-429...operators, 430...screen, 431~435...operators, 440...screen, 441...operator, 442...bold frame, 450...screen, 451...text, 452...image, 455...operator, 460...Screen, 461,462...Display field, 463~466...Controller, 470...Screen, 471,472...Display field, 474,475...Controller, 480...Screen, 481...Text, 489...Controller, 500...checkout counter, 501...clerk, 503...customer, 510... slip, 511,512... code symbol, 6 …network, 7...warehouse terminal, 8...cloud services, 9...DB. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0138] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-051374

Claims

1. a customer terminal that receives operations from a customer and includes: a presentation unit that presents selectable product information included in integrated inventory information obtained from a database that stores integrated inventory information, which is information about products in stock at one or more bases; an order receiving unit that receives product selection and orders based on the information presented by the presentation unit; and an output unit that outputs a print medium that includes identification information for the order received by the order receiving unit and identification information for the product related to the order; a sales data processing device that acquires the product identification information from the print medium and performs a payment process for the product related to the order; a store clerk terminal that receives operation by a store clerk and includes an input unit that acquires the order identification information from the print medium and receives input of information about the orderer of the order; Sales data processing system including:

2. The presentation unit presents information about the product included in the integrated inventory information by either searching for the product by keyword or narrowing down the category, or by reading a code symbol attached to a similar product in stock at the store.

2. The sales data processing system according to claim 1.

3. The integrated inventory information also stores information on products to be stocked at one or more bases, The order receiving unit receives reservations for the products.

2. The sales data processing system according to claim 1.

4. a presentation unit that, based on a customer's operation, presents selectable product information included in integrated inventory information obtained from a database storing integrated inventory information, which is information on products in stock at one or more locations; an order receiving unit that receives a selection and order of the product based on the information presented by the presentation unit through an operation of the customer; an output unit that outputs a print medium containing identification information of the order accepted by the order acceptance unit and identification information of the product related to the order, in response to an operation by a customer; a payment processing unit that acquires the product identification information from the print medium in response to an operation by a store clerk and performs payment processing for the product price of the order; an input unit that acquires the order identification information from the print medium by an operation of a store clerk and accepts input of information about the orderer of the order; Sales data processing system including:

5. A terminal device that accepts operations by a customer, a presentation unit that presents selectable information about the products included in integrated inventory information obtained from a database that stores integrated inventory information, which is information about products in stock at one or more bases; an order receiving unit that receives a selection and order of the product based on the information presented by the presentation unit; an output unit that outputs a print medium including identification information of the order received by the order receiving unit and identification information of the product related to the order; A sales data processing device comprising:

6. a customer terminal computer that accepts operations by a customer is made to function as a presentation unit that presents selectable product information included in integrated inventory information obtained from a database that stores integrated inventory information, which is information on products in stock at one or more bases; an order receiving unit that receives product selection and orders based on the information presented by the presentation unit; and an output unit that outputs a print medium that includes identification information of the order accepted by the order receiving unit and identification information of the product related to the order; The computer of the sales data processing device acquires the product identification information from the print medium and performs a payment process for the product price related to the order. The computer of the store clerk terminal that receives operations by the store clerk is caused to function as an input unit that acquires the order identification information from the print medium and receives input of the orderer's information. Program for.

Images