Information terminal and program thereof

Abstract

To digitize non-transaction receipts in addition to transaction receipts.SOLUTION: A receipt processor includes a determination unit, a digitization unit, and a transmission unit. The determination unit determines whether receipt data generated by a receipt generation unit is receipt data of a transaction receipt representing a content of a commercial transaction or receipt data of a non-transaction receipt representing a content other than the commercial transaction. The digitization unit digitizes the receipt data by attaching first classification information when the receipt data is the receipt data of the transaction receipt, and digitizes the receipt data by attaching second classification information different from the first classification information when the receipt data is the receipt data of the non-transaction receipt. The transmission unit transmits the receipt data digitized by the digitization unit to a server.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electronic receipt system, a receipt processing device used in this system, and a control program for the same. [Background technology]

[0002] There are known electronic receipt services that digitize receipts so that service users such as shoppers can view them on mobile devices, etc. The receipt data provided by conventional electronic receipt services is a transaction receipt that shows the details of a commercial transaction settled at an accounting machine such as a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal.

[0003] In addition to transaction receipts, there are also non-transaction receipts that show details other than commercial transactions. For example, non-transaction receipts include charge receipts that record the charge amount when electronic money is charged, and reservation receipts that record the reservation details when a product is reserved. Conventionally, these types of non-transaction receipts have not been subject to digitization. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5740420 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology for digitizing non-transaction receipts in addition to transaction receipts. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the receipt processing device includes a discrimination unit, a digitization unit, and a transmission unit. The discrimination unit determines whether the receipt data generated by the receipt generation unit is receipt data for a transaction receipt that indicates the details of a commercial transaction, or receipt data for a non-transaction receipt that indicates details other than a commercial transaction. If the receipt data is receipt data for a transaction receipt, the digitization unit digitizes the receipt data by adding first classification information. If the receipt data is receipt data for a non-transaction receipt, the digitization unit digitizes the receipt data by adding second classification information that is different from the first classification information. The transmission unit transmits the receipt data digitized by the digitization unit to a server. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an electronic receipt system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of a POS terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a center server. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the first electronic receipt data. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the second electronic receipt data. [Figure 7] 3 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by a processor of the POS terminal according to a control program. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor of the center server according to the control program. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor of the center server according to the control program. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a top screen of a receipt list image. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a receipt selection screen in a receipt list image. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a receipt selection screen in a receipt list image. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a detailed receipt image for a reservation receipt. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a detailed receipt image for a reservation receipt. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a detailed receipt image for a reservation receipt. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. This embodiment illustrates an electronic receipt system that digitizes not only transaction receipts that show the details of commercial transactions settled at a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal, but also charge receipts and reservation receipts as non-transaction receipts that show details other than commercial transactions.

[0009] [Explanation of the electronic receipt system] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an electronic receipt system 10 according to this embodiment. The electronic receipt system 10 includes a POS terminal 20 provided in each affiliated store S, a center server 30 provided in an electronic receipt center C, and a communication network 40. The affiliated store S is a store that has registered as an affiliated store in order to use the electronic receipt system 10. The electronic receipt center C is a computer center managed by an operating body that operates the electronic receipt system 10. The communication network 40 is, for example, the Internet. The POS terminal 20 of each affiliated store S and the center server 30 of the electronic receipt center C are each connected to the communication network 40 via communication devices such as a router.

[0010] A service user (hereinafter simply referred to as a user) who uses the electronic receipt service needs an information terminal 50 to use the electronic receipt system 10. The information terminal 50 is a portable electronic device capable of wireless communication using wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or mobile communication technology. A large number of access points 60 compatible with wireless LAN or mobile communication are connected to the communication network 40. The information terminal 50 communicates wirelessly with the center server 30 via any of the access points 60. Such an information terminal 50 can be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a mobile phone.

[0011] A user installs a dedicated application program on the information terminal 50 and registers as an electronic receipt member. By registering as a member, a unique member ID is issued to the user. After the member ID is issued, a barcode representing the member ID is displayed on the display device of the information terminal 50 by starting the application program. Then, for example, when the user makes a purchase at affiliated store S and presents the barcode of the member ID displayed on the display device to the cashier to settle the transaction. The cashier reads the barcode of the member ID using the barcode scanner 208 provided in the POS terminal 20.

[0012] When the member ID barcode is read by the scanner 208, the POS terminal 20 recognizes that the transaction is one in which an electronic receipt is to be issued instead of a paper receipt. The POS terminal 20 then digitizes the transaction receipt showing the details of the transaction and transmits the electronic receipt data to the center server 30 together with the member ID obtained from the barcode.

[0013] The center server 30 stores the electronic receipt data received from each POS terminal 20 in association with the member ID. After that, when a command to view the electronic receipt data including the member ID is received from the information terminal 50, the center server 30 transmits the electronic receipt data associated with the member ID to the information terminal 50 that sent the command. In the information terminal 50 that has received the electronic receipt data, a receipt image is displayed on the display device based on the electronic receipt data. In this way, the user can receive the receipt that he or she did not receive at the time of payment at the affiliated store as an electronic receipt.

[0014] The electronic receipt system 10 of this embodiment is capable of digitizing not only the above-mentioned transaction receipts, but also non-transaction receipts such as charge receipts and reservation receipts. A charge receipt is a non-transaction receipt that records information about charging electronic money, such as the charge amount and the balance after charging, when electronic money is charged using the POS terminal 20. A reservation receipt is a non-transaction receipt that records information about a product reservation, such as the product name, reservation date, expected pickup date, and the name and contact information of the person who made the reservation, when a product purchase is reserved using the POS terminal 20.

[0015] [POS terminal explanation] 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 20. The POS terminal 20 includes a processor 201, a main memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a clock 204, a communication interface 205, a keyboard 206, a display 207, a scanner 208, a printer 209, a reader / writer 210, and a system bus 211. The POS terminal 20 connects the processor 201, the main memory 202, the auxiliary storage device 203, the clock 204, the communication interface 205, the keyboard 206, the display 207, the scanner 208, the printer 209, and the reader / writer 210 to the system bus 211 directly or via a signal input / output circuit. Thus, the POS terminal 20 constitutes a computer by the processor 201, the main memory 202, the auxiliary storage device 203, and the system bus 211 connecting these components.

[0016] The processor 201 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 201 controls each part to realize various functions of the POS terminal 20 in accordance with an operating system, application programs, etc. The processor 201 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0017] The main memory 202 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 202 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 202 stores programs such as an operating system and application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 202 may also store data required for the processor 201 to execute processes for controlling each unit in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 202 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 201 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0018] The auxiliary storage device 203 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) is used as the auxiliary storage device 203. The auxiliary storage device 203 stores data used by the processor 201 when performing various processes, or data generated by the processes in the processor 201. The auxiliary storage device 203 may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0019] The clock 204 functions as a time information source for the POS terminal 20. The processor 201 keeps track of the current date and time based on the time information kept by the clock 204.

[0020] The communication interface 205 performs data communication with a store server in the store via a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication interface 205 is also connected to a communication network 40 via a router connected to the LAN, and performs data communication with the center server 30 via the communication network 40 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0021] The keyboard 206 is provided with various keys necessary for the POS terminal 20, such as a numeric keypad, a subtotal key, a closing key, a charge key, a reservation key, etc., and accepts input of various instructions by the operator. The closing key is a key for declaring a transaction settlement operation. The charge key is a key for declaring an electronic money charge operation. The reservation key is a key for declaring a product purchase reservation operation. The keyboard 206 functions as an input device for the POS terminal 20. Note that a touch panel can be used as an input device instead of or in combination with the keyboard 206. The operator is typically a store clerk in charge of accounting. However, the shopper may also be the operator.

[0022] The display 207 displays various screens for notifying the operator of various types of information. The display 207 functions as a display device for the POS terminal 20. The number of display 207 is not limited to one. For example, the POS terminal 20 may be provided with two displays 207, one for the store clerk and one for the shopper.

[0023] Scanner 208 optically scans and reads barcodes. Scanner 208 functions as an input device for POS terminal 20. Each product is affixed with a barcode representing a product code unique to that product. Scanner 208 can read the barcode affixed to each product. Also, as described above, if a member ID barcode indicating a member ID is displayed on the display device of information terminal 50, scanner 208 can read this barcode. Note that scanner 208 may also be a type that reads code symbols other than barcodes, such as two-dimensional data codes.

[0024] The printer 209 prints a receipt image on receipt paper and issues a paper receipt. The printer 209 may also print data on paper other than receipt paper, such as journal paper. The printer 209 functions as a printing device for the POS terminal 20.

[0025] The reader / writer 210 has the function of withdrawing electronic money from an electronic money medium, such as an IC card or a smartphone, and the function of charging electronic money to the electronic money medium.

[0026] 3 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the POS terminal 20. The POS terminal 20 functions as a POS business processing unit 220, a receipt generation unit 230, and a receipt processing unit 240. These functions are realized by the processor 201 processing information in accordance with a control program installed in the main memory 202 or the auxiliary storage device 203. By incorporating the receipt processing unit 240 function, the POS terminal 20 can become a receipt processing device.

[0027] There is no particular limitation on the method for installing the control program into the main memory 202 or the auxiliary storage device 203. The control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or can be distributed by communication via a communication network and installed in the main memory 202 or the auxiliary storage device 203. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store the program and is readable by the device.

[0028] The POS transaction processing unit 220 is a function that processes various transactions that can be executed by the POS terminal 20, such as a commercial transaction settlement transaction 221, an electronic money charging transaction 222, and a product purchase reservation transaction 223. The settlement transaction 221 is a transaction in which the price of a product registered via an input device such as the scanner 208 or keyboard 206 is settled by a payment method such as cash, credit card, or electronic money. The charging transaction 222 is a transaction in which electronic money is charged to an electronic money medium. The purchase reservation transaction 223 is a transaction in which a reservation for a target product is accepted and information required for the reservation is registered.

[0029] The receipt generation unit 230 has a function to generate receipts related to the operations processed by the POS operation processing unit 220. In other words, the receipt generation unit 230 generates a transaction receipt for a payment operation, a charge receipt for a charge operation, and a reservation receipt for a purchase reservation operation. The receipt data generated by the receipt generation unit 230 is data in an unstructured format for printing on receipt paper by the printer 209.

[0030] The receipt processing unit 240 functions as an input unit 241 , a discrimination unit 242 , a switching unit 243 , an output unit 244 , a digitization unit 245 , and a communication unit 246 .

[0031] The input unit 241 inputs, as data requesting an electronic receipt, data output from the scanner 208 that has scanned a barcode indicating a member ID unique to a user who uses the electronic receipt service. The input unit 241 provides the data input from the scanner 208, i.e., the member ID, to the switching unit 243.

[0032] The discrimination unit 242 determines whether the receipt data generated by the receipt generation unit 230 is transaction receipt (first receipt) data indicating the details of a commercial transaction, or non-transaction receipt (second receipt) data indicating details other than a commercial transaction. The discrimination unit 242 provides the discrimination result to the switching unit 243.

[0033] When data requesting an electronic receipt, i.e., a member ID, is input via the input unit 241, the switching unit 243 provides the receipt data identified by the discrimination unit 242 to the digitization unit 245. When a member ID is not input, the switching unit 243 provides the receipt data identified by the discrimination unit 242 to the output unit 244.

[0034] The output unit 244 outputs the receipt data to the printer 209. As a result, a receipt based on the receipt data is printed on receipt paper and issued as a paper receipt.

[0035] If the receipt data is transaction receipt data, the digitization unit 245 digitizes the receipt data by adding first classification information. If the receipt data is non-transaction receipt data, the digitization unit 245 digitizes the receipt data by adding second classification information that is different from the first classification information. Note that digitization refers to converting receipt data in an unstructured format for printing on receipt paper into receipt data in a structured format, such as CSV (Comma-Separated Values) format, XML (Extensible Markup Language) format, or JSON (JavaScript (registered trademark) Object Notation) format.

[0036] The first sorting information and the second sorting information are not particularly limited. For example, the first sorting information may be "10," and the second sorting information may be "11" and "12." Essentially, the information may be such that the center server 30 can recognize that receipt data with the first sorting information is transaction receipt data, and receipt data with the second sorting information is non-transaction receipt data.

[0037] The communication unit 246 transmits the receipt data digitized by the digitization unit 245 to the center server 30 via the communication network 40 connected to the communication interface 205.

[0038] [Center server description] 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the center server 30. The center server 30 includes a processor 301, a main memory 302, an auxiliary storage device 303, a clock 304, a communication interface 305, and a system bus 306. The center server 30 connects the processor 301, the main memory 302, the auxiliary storage device 303, the clock 304, and the communication interface 305 to the system bus 306 directly or via a signal input / output circuit. Thus, the center server 30 constitutes a computer by the processor 301, the main memory 302, the auxiliary storage device 303, and the system bus 306 connecting these together.

[0039] The processor 301 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 301 controls each part to realize various functions of the center server 30 in accordance with an operating system, application programs, etc. The processor 301 is, for example, a CPU.

[0040] The main memory 302 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 302 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 302 stores programs such as an operating system and application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 302 may also store data required for the processor 301 to execute processes for controlling each component in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 302 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be rewritten by the processor 301 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0041] The auxiliary storage device 303 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD is used as the auxiliary storage device 303. The auxiliary storage device 303 stores data used by the processor 301 when performing various processes, or data generated by the processes in the processor 301. The auxiliary storage device 303 may also store the application programs described above.

[0042] The clock 304 functions as a time information source for the center server 30. The processor 301 keeps track of the current date and time based on the time information kept by the clock 304.

[0043] The communication interface 305 is connected to the communication network 40 and performs data communication with external devices via the communication network 40 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. The external device is, for example, the POS terminal 20 of each member store S. The external device may also be an information terminal 50 carried by the user.

[0044] The center server 30 configured as described above has a member file 310, a first file 311, and a second file 312 stored in the auxiliary storage device 303. The member file 310 stores member data including the member ID of each user registered as a user of the electronic receipt service. The first file 311 stores first electronic receipt data 3111 (see FIG. 5) generated from digitized transaction receipt data. The second file 312 stores second electronic receipt data 3121 (see FIG. 6) generated from digitized non-transaction receipt data.

[0045] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the first electronic receipt data 3111. As shown in Fig. 5, the first electronic receipt data 3111 consists of index data Da and transaction receipt data Db. The index data Da is data that serves as a header for the transaction receipt data Db.

[0046] The index data Da includes a member ID, a store code, a store icon, a receipt category, an issue date and time, and a transaction total amount. The member ID is an identification code of a user who uses the electronic receipt service. The store code is an identification code of a store that uses the electronic receipt service. The store icon is an icon that represents a store identified by the store code. The receipt category is category information that indicates a transaction receipt, i.e., first category information. The issue date and time is the issue date and time of the transaction receipt. The transaction total amount is the total amount of the commercial transaction shown on the transaction receipt. The index data Da is not limited to the items described above. Other items may be included, or some items may be omitted.

[0047] The transaction receipt data Db is data that has been digitized in a structured format to be printed on a transaction receipt. That is, it is data that has been digitized in a structured format, including the product name, price, number of items sold, sales amount, total number of items, total amount, payment amount, etc. An information terminal 50 that has downloaded the transaction receipt data Db can display an image of the transaction receipt based on the transaction receipt data Db on its display device.

[0048] In this way, the first file 311 is an area for sequentially storing data of transaction receipts that a user identified by the membership code requests to receive as an electronic receipt, in association with the membership code, as first electronic receipt data 3111.

[0049] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the second electronic receipt data 3121. As shown in Fig. 6, the second electronic receipt data 3121 consists of index data Dc and non-transaction receipt data Dd. The index data Dc is data that serves as a header for the non-transaction receipt data Dd.

[0050] The index data Dc includes a member ID, a store code, a store icon, a receipt classification, a type icon, an issue date and time, and a type-applicable amount. The member ID, the store code, and the store icon are the same as those in the first electronic receipt data 3111.

[0051] The receipt classification is classification information indicating a non-transaction receipt, i.e., second classification information. The second classification information is different from the first classification information. The second classification information includes charge classification information indicating a charge receipt and reservation classification information indicating a reservation receipt. As mentioned above, if the second classification information is "11" and "12", it is possible that the charge classification information will be "11" and the reservation classification information will be "12".

[0052] The type icon is an icon that can identify the type of non-transaction receipt. Therefore, in this embodiment, the type icon is a charge icon that represents a charge receipt, or a reservation icon that represents a reservation receipt. In other words, if the receipt classification is charge classification information, the type icon is a charge icon. If the receipt classification is reservation classification information, the type icon is a reservation icon.

[0053] The issue date and time is the issue date and time of the non-transaction receipt. The type target amount is the amount shown on the non-transaction receipt. In the case of a charge receipt, the type target amount is the charge amount. In the case of a reservation receipt, the type target amount is the amount of the reserved item. The index data Dc is not limited to the items mentioned above. Other items may be included, or some items may be omitted.

[0054] The non-transaction receipt data Dd is data printed on a non-transaction receipt that has been digitized in a structured format. In the case of a charge receipt, the charge amount and the balance after charge are digitized in a structured format. In the case of a reservation receipt, the product name, reservation date and time, expected pickup date, name and contact information of the person who made the reservation, etc. are digitized in a structured format. On an information terminal 50 that has downloaded the non-transaction receipt data Dd, an image of the non-transaction receipt based on the non-transaction receipt data Dd can be displayed on the display device.

[0055] In this way, the second file 312 is an area for sequentially storing data of non-transaction receipts that a user identified by the membership code requests to receive as an electronic receipt, in association with the membership code, as second electronic receipt data 3121.

[0056] Returning to the explanation of Figure 4. The center server 30 is configured so that the processor 301 functions as a receiving unit 321, an acquiring unit 322, a processing unit 323, a collecting unit 324, an editing unit 325, and a providing unit 326. These functions are realized by the processor 301 processing information in accordance with control programs installed in the main memory 302 and the auxiliary storage device 303.

[0057] There is no particular limitation on the method for installing the control program into the main memory 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303. The control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or can be distributed by communication via a communication network and installed in the main memory 302 or the auxiliary storage device 303. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store the program and is readable by the device.

[0058] The receiving unit 321 has a function of receiving, via the communication interface 305, receipt data that has been digitized by the receipt processing unit 240 of the POS terminal 20.

[0059] The acquisition unit 322 has a function of acquiring sorting information attached to the receipt data received by the reception unit 321, that is, the first sorting information or the second sorting information.

[0060] The processing unit 323 has a function of processing the receipt data received by the receiving unit 321 as receipt data of a transaction receipt when the sorting information acquired by the acquiring unit 322 is the first sorting information. Specifically, the processing unit 323 generates first electronic receipt data 3111 based on the receipt data and saves it in the first file 311. The processing unit 323 also has a function of processing the receipt data received by the receiving unit 321 as receipt data of a non-transaction receipt when the sorting information acquired by the acquiring unit 322 is the second sorting information. Specifically, the processing unit 323 generates second electronic receipt data 3121 based on the receipt data and saves it in the second file 312.

[0061] The collection unit 324 has a function of collecting electronic receipt data requested to be downloaded from the user's information terminal 50 from the first file 311 or the second file 312. The collection unit 324 searches the first file 311 for the member ID included in the collection request command from the information terminal 50. The collection unit 324 then collects first electronic receipt data 3111 including the member ID from the first file 311. The collection unit 324 also searches the second file 312 for the same member ID. The collection unit 324 then collects second electronic receipt data 3121 including the member ID from the second file 312.

[0062] The editing unit 325 is a function that edits an image for viewing an electronic receipt on the information terminal 50 based on the electronic receipt data collected by the collection unit 324, and transmits the image to the information terminal 50 that has made the download request.

[0063] The providing unit 326 is a function that provides an image of an electronic receipt requested for viewing from the user's information terminal 50 to the requesting information terminal 50. For example, when a request to view a transaction receipt is made from the user's information terminal 50, the providing unit 326 transmits transaction receipt data Db of the first electronic receipt data 3111 related to the transaction receipt to the information terminal that made the request. For example, when a request to view a non-transaction receipt is made from the user's information terminal 50, the providing unit 326 transmits non-transaction receipt data Dd of the second electronic receipt data 3121 related to the non-transaction receipt to the information terminal that made the request.

[0064] [Operation explanation of POS terminal 20] 7 is a flowchart showing the main information processing steps executed by the processor 201 of the POS terminal 20 in accordance with the control program. In ACT1, the processor 201 executes a POS transaction using the functions of the POS transaction processing unit 220. In ACT2, the processor 201 waits for the timing to issue a receipt. For example, when executing a commercial transaction settlement operation 221, the processor 201 waits for the timing to issue a transaction receipt. For example, when executing an electronic money charging operation 222, the processor 201 waits for the timing to issue a charge receipt. For example, when executing a product purchase reservation operation 223, the processor 201 waits for the timing to issue a reservation receipt.

[0065] When it is time to issue a receipt, the processor 201 determines YES in ACT2 and proceeds to ACT3. In ACT3, the processor 201 generates receipt data using the functions of the receipt generation unit 230. For example, if the receipt that is due to be issued is a transaction receipt, the processor 201 generates receipt data for the transaction receipt. For example, if the receipt that is due to be issued is a charge receipt, the processor 201 generates receipt data for the charge receipt. For example, if the receipt that is due to be issued is a reserved receipt, the processor 201 generates receipt data for the reserved receipt.

[0066] When receipt data is generated, the processor 201 determines the type of receipt in ACT4. Then, the processor 201 assigns a type code corresponding to the type to the receipt data in ACT5. For example, if transaction receipt data is generated, the processor 201 sets the type code to "0." For example, if charge receipt data is generated, the processor 201 generates the type code "1." For example, if reservation receipt data is generated, the processor 201 generates the type code "2."

[0067] In ACT6, the processor 201 uses the function of the determination unit 242 to confirm whether the receipt is to be issued to a user of the electronic receipt service. The processor 201 uses the function of the input unit 241 to confirm whether data requesting an electronic receipt has been input. If data requesting an electronic receipt has not been input, the receipt for which receipt data was generated in ACT3 is a receipt to be issued to a consumer other than the user. In this case, the processor 201 determines NO in ACT6 and proceeds to ACT7. In ACT7, the processor 201 uses the function of the switching unit 243 to output the receipt data to the output unit 244. In ACT8, the processor 201 uses the function of the output unit 244 to output the receipt data to the printer 209 and instructs it to print.

[0068] Thus, the printer 209 operates in the POS terminal 20 to print the receipt data on receipt paper, thereby issuing a paper transaction receipt, charge receipt, reservation receipt, etc.

[0069] On the other hand, if data requesting an electronic receipt has been input, the receipt for which receipt data was generated in ACT 3 is the receipt to be issued to the user of the electronic receipt service. In this case, the processor 201 determines YES in ACT 6 and proceeds to ACT 9. In ACT 9, the processor 201 outputs the receipt data to the digitization unit 245 using the function of the switching unit 243.

[0070] The processor 201 executes the functions of the digitization unit 245 in ACT10 to ACT12. That is, the processor 201 identifies the type code assigned to the receipt data in ACT10. The processor 201 adds the receipt classification identified by the type code to the receipt data in ACT11. Specifically, the processor 201 adds first classification information, for example, "10," to receipt data with a type code of "0," i.e., a transaction receipt. The processor 201 adds second classification information, i.e., charge classification information, for example, "11," to receipt data with a type code of "1," i.e., a charge receipt. The processor 201 adds second classification information, i.e., reservation classification information, for example, "12," to receipt data with a type code of "2," i.e., a reservation receipt. The processor 201 digitizes the receipt data with the receipt classification added in ACT12.

[0071] The processor 201, as ACT13, uses the function of the communication unit 246 to send the digitized receipt data to the center server 30. As a result, the digitized receipt data is sent from the communication interface 205 to the center server 30 via the communication network 40.

[0072] In this way, according to the POS terminal 20 of the electronic receipt system 10, the various functions of the receipt processing unit 240 can digitize not only transaction receipts but also non-transaction receipts such as charge receipts and reservation receipts, and send them to the center server 30.

[0073] [Explanation of operation when the center server receives an electronic receipt] 8 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 301 of the center server 30 in accordance with the control program. In ACT21, the processor 301 waits for receipt data to be received using the function of the receiving unit 321. When receipt data transmitted from the POS terminal 20 of one of the member stores S is received via the communication interface 305, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT21 and proceeds to ACT22. In ACT22, the processor 301 acquires the receipt classification added to the receipt data using the function of the acquiring unit 322. Then, the processor 301 executes the function of the processing unit 323 in ACT23 through ACT30.

[0074] That is, in ACT23, the processor 301 checks whether the receipt classification is the first classification information indicating a transaction receipt. If the receipt classification is the first classification information, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT23 and proceeds to ACT24. In ACT24, the processor 301 acquires a store icon that is set in association with the store code included in the receipt data. The center server 30 has an icon table in which a unique store icon is set in association with the store code of each affiliated store S. The icon table may be stored in another server accessible by the center server 30.

[0075] In ACT25, the processor 301 detects, from the receipt data, data of items that make up the index data Da of the first electronic receipt data 3111. Then, in ACT26, the processor 301 generates first electronic receipt data 3111 consisting of the index data Da and transaction receipt data Db, and saves it in the first file 311.

[0076] On the other hand, if the receipt category is the second category information, the processor 301 determines NO in ACT23 and proceeds to ACT27. The processor 301 acquires a store icon set in association with the store code included in the receipt data in ACT27. The processor 301 also acquires a type icon set in association with the receipt category included in the receipt data in ACT28. The center server 30 has an icon table in which unique type icons such as charge icons and reservation icons are set in association with receipt categories such as charge category information and reservation category information. The icon table may be stored in another server accessible by the center server 30.

[0077] In ACT29, the processor 301 detects, from the receipt data, data of items that make up the index data Dc of the second electronic receipt data 3121. Then, in ACT30, the processor 301 generates second electronic receipt data 3121 consisting of the index data Dc and non-transaction receipt data Dd, and saves it in the second file 312.

[0078] This completes the information processing performed by the processor 301 when receipt data is received from the POS terminal 20.

[0079] In this way, the center server 30 can store not only the first electronic receipt data 3111 related to transaction receipts transmitted from the POS terminal 20 of each member store S, but also the second electronic receipt data 3121 related to non-transaction receipts such as charge receipts and reservation receipts. Moreover, the center server 30 stores the first electronic receipt data 3111 in the first file 311 and the second electronic receipt data 3121 in the second file 312. Therefore, the center server 30 can store the first electronic receipt data 3111 related to transaction receipts and the second electronic receipt data 3121 related to non-transaction receipts separately. As a result, for example, by analyzing the electronic receipt data stored in the second file 312, it is possible to easily analyze what kind of receipts have been digitized as non-transaction receipts.

[0080] [Explanation of operation when the center server receives an electronic receipt request] 9 is a flowchart showing the main information processing procedures executed by the processor 301 of the center server 30 in accordance with the control program. The processor 301 waits for a request command for an electronic receipt as ACT 41. The request command for an electronic receipt is wirelessly transmitted from the information terminal 50 to the center server 30 when a user starts a dedicated application program installed in the information terminal 50 and performs an operation to request an electronic receipt from the home screen.

[0081] When the processor 301 receives a request command for an electronic receipt transmitted from the user's information terminal 50 via the communication interface 305, it determines YES in ACT 41 and proceeds to ACT 42. The processor 301 executes the functions of the collection unit 324 in ACT 42 to ACT 45.

[0082] That is, the processor 301 acquires the user's member ID from the request command in ACT 42. Then, the processor 301 searches the first file 311 to collect first electronic receipt data 3111 that includes the member ID in ACT 43. The processor 301 also searches the second file 312 to collect second electronic receipt data 3121 that includes the member ID in ACT 44.

[0083] The processor 301 executes the functions of the editing unit 325 as ACT45. That is, the processor 301 edits a receipt list image based on the collected first electronic receipt data 3111 and second electronic receipt data 3121. The receipt list image will be described later.

[0084] The processor 301, as ACT46, controls the communication interface 305 using the function of the providing unit 326 to send receipt list image data to the information terminal 50 that sent the request command. Through this control, the receipt list image data is transmitted over the communication network 40 and wirelessly sent from the access point 60 to the information terminal 50 that sent the request command. As a result, the information terminal 50 displays the top screen SCa (see FIG. 10) of the receipt list image on a display device such as a touch panel.

[0085] 10 is an example of the top screen SCa. As shown in the figure, the top screen SCa displays the total payment amount, the total charge amount, and information on whether or not there is a reservation for each month. The total payment amount is the total transaction amount included in the first electronic receipt data 3111 issued on the same month. The total charge amount is the total charge amount included in the second electronic receipt data 3121 issued on the same month and having the receipt classification of charge receipt. The information on whether or not there is a reservation is displayed as "reserved" if there is second electronic receipt data 3121 issued on the same month and having the receipt classification of reservation receipt, and displayed as "no reservation" if there is no second electronic receipt data 3121 issued on the same month.

[0086] Therefore, the user can know the total amount to be paid or charged for each month from the information on the top screen SCa. The user can also know whether or not there are any products reserved for that month.

[0087] After checking the top screen SCa, the user selects the month for which they want to check the electronic receipts. This switches the receipt list image from the top screen SCa to the receipt selection screen SCb.

[0088] 11 shows an example of the receipt selection screen SCb when December is selected on the top screen SCa. As shown in the figure, the receipt selection screen SCb displays a list of index images Pa, Pb, and Pc of electronic receipts issued in December, along with the total payment amount, total charge amount, and reservation status for December.

[0089] The index image Pa is an image based on the index data Da of the first electronic receipt data 3111. The index image Pa is an image that represents the issue date, a store icon Ma, and the total transaction amount. The index image Pb is an image based on the index data Dc of the second electronic receipt data 3121 related to a reserved receipt. The index image Pb is an image that represents the issue date, a reservation icon Mb, a store icon Ma, and the target amount by type (the amount of the reserved item). The index image Pc is an image based on the index data Dc of the second electronic receipt data 3121 related to a charge receipt. The index image Pc is an image that represents the issue date, a charge icon Mc, a store icon Ma, and the target amount by type (the charge amount).

[0090] Therefore, from the information on the receipt selection screen SCb, the user can know when and from which store the electronic receipts for the selected month were issued, distinguishing between transaction receipts and non-transaction receipts. Furthermore, for non-transaction receipts, it is also possible to distinguish whether they are charge receipts or reservation receipts. Furthermore, the charge amount can be easily known from the charge receipt index image Pc.

[0091] The information included in the index images Pa, Pb, and Pc is not limited to the information shown in Fig. 11. Any information may be included as long as it allows the user to identify the electronic receipt.

[0092] On the receipt selection screen SCb, by selecting a store name from the pull-down menu Wa, the display can be narrowed down to index images Pa, Pb, and Pc of electronic receipts issued by the same store. Also, on the receipt selection screen SCb, by selecting a receipt type from the pull-down menu Wb, the display can be narrowed down to index images Pa, Pb, or Pc of electronic receipts of the same type.

[0093] 12 shows the receipt selection screen SCc that appears when "Charge Receipt" is selected from the pull-down menu Wb. As shown, the receipt selection screen SCc displays the total charge amount, the total charge amount by month, and an index image Pc of the charge receipt for each month. The total charge amount is, for example, the total charge amount for one year.

[0094] Therefore, from the information on the receipt selection screen SCc, the user can easily know detailed information such as when, at which store, and how much was charged, in addition to the total charge amount and the total charge amount per month.

[0095] Returning to the explanation of Figure 9. The processor 301 of the center server 30 that sent the receipt list image data checks in ACT47 whether a view command has been received. If a view command has not been received, the processor 301 determines NO in ACT47 and proceeds to ACT48. The processor 301 checks in ACT48 whether an end command has been received. If an end command has not been received, the processor 301 determines NO in ACT48 and returns to ACT47. In this way, the processor 301 waits to receive either a view command or an end command in ACT47 and ACT48.

[0096] After checking the receipt selection screen SCb or the receipt selection screen SCc, the user selects the index image Pa, Pb, or Pc for which the user wants to view the electronic receipt. Then, a view command is sent from the information terminal 50 to the center server 30. The view command includes information on the index image Pa, Pb, or Pc selected by the user.

[0097] When the processor 301 receives the view command, it determines YES in ACT 47 and proceeds to ACT 49. In ACT 49, the processor 301 provides the receipt data using the function of the providing unit 326.

[0098] Specifically, the processor 301 identifies the first electronic receipt data 3111 or the second electronic receipt data 3121 from the information of the index image included in the request command. If the first electronic receipt data 3111 is identified, the processor 301 transmits the transaction receipt data Db included in the first electronic receipt data 3111 to the information terminal 50 that has transmitted the request command. If the second electronic receipt data 3121 is identified, the processor 301 transmits the non-transaction receipt data Dd included in the second electronic receipt data 3121 to the information terminal 50 that has transmitted the request command.

[0099] After receiving the receipt data, the processor 301 checks whether the receipt data is reserved receipt data in ACT 50. If the receipt data is not reserved receipt data, the processor 301 determines NO in ACT 50 and returns to ACT 47. In other words, the processor 301 returns to a standby state for the view command and the end command.

[0100] If the receipt data provided to the information terminal 50 is data for a reservation receipt, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT50 and proceeds to ACT51. The processor 301 checks whether or not receipt of the reserved product has been specified in ACT51. If receipt of the reserved product has not been specified, the processor 301 determines NO in ACT51 and returns to ACT47. That is, the processor 301 returns to a standby state for a view command and an end command.

[0101] If receipt of the reserved product is specified, the processor 301 determines YES in ACT 51 and proceeds to ACT 52. In ACT 52, the processor 301 modifies the non-transaction receipt data Dd of the reserved receipt to non-transaction receipt data indicating that the product has been received. After that, the processor 301 returns to a standby state for a view command and an end command.

[0102] 13 is an example of a receipt details screen SCd displayed on the display device of an information terminal 50 that has received non-transaction receipt data Dd for a reservation receipt REa. The reservation receipt REa displayed on the receipt details screen SCd can be used as an exchange ticket for the reserved product.

[0103] That is, on the day of collection, the user who reserved the product goes to the store where the reservation was made and shows the reservation receipt REa displayed on the information terminal 50 to the store clerk. The clerk or user touches the reservation receipt REa. Then, as shown in FIG. 14, a receipt completion button BT is displayed on the reservation receipt REa, and the clerk or user presses the receipt completion button BT. The information terminal 50 then notifies the center server 30 that collection of the reserved product has been completed. As a result, the non-transaction receipt data Dd of the reservation receipt REa is corrected to non-transaction receipt data indicating that the product has been received. Then, as shown in FIG. 15, a reservation receipt REb indicating that the reserved product has been received is displayed on the display device of the information terminal 50.

[0104] In this way, the electronic reservation receipt REa can be used as a receipt for the reserved product.

[0105] When the application program is terminated on the information terminal 50, an end command is sent. When the processor 301 of the center server 30, which is in a standby state for a view command and an end command, receives the end command, it determines YES in ACT 48. The processor 301 terminates the information processing of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0106] As described above in detail, the POS terminal 20 having the function of the receipt processor 240 can digitize not only transaction receipts but also non-transaction receipts.

[0107] Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 can digitize non-transaction receipts only when the user of the electronic receipt service presents their membership ID. In other words, consumers who want to receive non-transaction receipts such as charge receipts and reservation receipts as electronic receipts will be more likely to use the electronic receipt service. This will help popularize the electronic receipt service.

[0108] Furthermore, if the reservation receipt is digitized, it can be used as a receipt. This means that the store can save time by not having to issue a separate receipt to the customer. It also saves the customer from having to manage the receipt until they receive the product.

[0109] [Variations] The functions of the POS terminal 20 are not limited to the POS transaction processing unit 220, receipt generation unit 230, and receipt processing unit 240. The receipt generation unit 230 may also be included in the functions of the POS transaction processing unit 220. Alternatively, the receipt generation unit 230 may also be included in the functions of the receipt processing unit 240.

[0110] The function of the receipt processing unit 240 may be provided by an information processing device connected to the POS terminal 20. In other words, the receipt processing device may be realized by an information processing device separate from the POS terminal.

[0111] The receipt processing unit 240 may have the functions of a discrimination unit 242, a digitization unit 245, and a communication unit 246. In other words, it may be a receipt processing device that digitizes all transaction receipts and non-transaction receipts generated by the receipt generation unit 230.

[0112] The second classification information may be common regardless of the type of non-transaction receipt. In this case, the type icons displayed on the receipt selection screens SCb and SCc of the receipt list image will be the same. Even in such an embodiment, non-transaction receipts can still be digitized.

[0113] The data for requesting an electronic receipt is not limited to the member ID of the electronic receipt service. For example, if a point service is implemented in conjunction with an electronic receipt service, the member ID on the point card can be linked to the member ID of the electronic receipt service. By doing so, the member ID on the point card can be used as data for requesting an electronic receipt.

[0114] For example, a type icon is added to the index data Da of the first electronic receipt data 3111. By doing so, the center server 30 can save the first electronic receipt data 3111 and the second electronic receipt data 3121 in one data file.

[0115] Non-transaction receipts are not limited to charge receipts and reservation receipts. For example, receipts issued as warranty cards when purchasing home appliances may also be digitized. By doing so, the warranty card can be digitized and managed by the center server 30, eliminating the risk of loss.

[0116] The images shown in Figures 10 to 15 are merely examples, and the content is not particularly limited as long as the user can obtain similar information.

[0117] 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]

[0118] 10...electronic receipt system, 20...POS terminal, 20...center server, 40...communication network, 50...information terminal, 60...access point, 201, 301...processor, 202, 302...main memory, 203, 303...auxiliary storage device, 204, 304...clock, 205, 305...communication interface, 206...keyboard, 207...display, 208...scanner, 209...printer, 210...reader Writer, 211, 306...system bus, 220...POS business processing unit 220...receipt generation unit, 240...receipt processing unit, 241...input unit, 242...discrimination unit, 243...switching unit, 244...output unit, 245...digitization unit, 246...communication unit, 310...member file, 311...first file, 312...second file, 321...receiving unit, 322...acquisition unit, 323...processing unit, 324...collection unit, 325...editing unit, 326...providing unit.

Claims

1. a discrimination unit that discriminates whether the receipt data generated by the receipt generation unit is receipt data for a transaction receipt that indicates the content of a commercial transaction or receipt data for a non-transaction receipt that indicates the content other than a commercial transaction; an digitization unit that digitizes the receipt data by adding first classification information to the receipt data if the receipt data is receipt data of the transaction receipt, and that digitizes the receipt data by adding second classification information different from the first classification information to the receipt data if the receipt data is receipt data of the non-transaction receipt; a transmission unit that transmits the receipt data digitized by the digitization unit to a server; A receipt processing device comprising:

2. an input unit for inputting data requesting an electronic receipt; an output unit that outputs receipt data to a printing device; 2. The receipt processing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a switching unit that, when data requesting the electronic receipt is input via the input unit for the receipt data generated by the receipt generating unit, provides the receipt data identified by the discrimination unit to the digitization unit; and, when data requesting the electronic receipt is not input, provides the receipt data identified by the discrimination unit to the output unit.

3. 3. The receipt processing device according to claim 1, wherein the non-transaction receipt is a charge receipt that records charge information for electronic money or a reservation receipt that records details of a reserved product.

4. A receipt processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3; a receiving unit that receives receipt data digitized by the receipt processing device; an acquisition unit that acquires sorting information attached to the receipt data received by the receiving unit; a processing unit that processes the receipt data as receipt data of the transaction receipt when the sorting information acquired by the acquisition unit is the first sorting information, and processes the receipt data as receipt data of the non-transaction receipt when the sorting information acquired by the acquisition unit is the second sorting information; and Electronic receipt system including.

5. The server a providing unit that provides the receipt data processed by the processing unit as receipt data for the transaction receipt or the non-transaction receipt to the terminal that has made the receipt request; The electronic receipt system of claim 4 further comprising:

6. A receipt processing device computer that processes the receipt data generated by the receipt generation unit A function for determining whether the receipt data is receipt data of a transaction receipt that indicates the content of a commercial transaction or receipt data of a non-transaction receipt that indicates the content other than a commercial transaction; a function for digitizing the receipt data by adding first classification information if the receipt data is receipt data of the transaction receipt, and for digitizing the receipt data by adding second classification information that is different from the first classification information if the receipt data is receipt data of the non-transaction receipt; and a function of transmitting the digitized receipt data to a server; A control program to achieve this.

Images