Transaction processor and control program thereof

Abstract

To allow a member of an electronic receipt service to receive a paper receipt for transactions at a specific store.SOLUTION: A transaction processor has a function of creating receipt data in which information related to transactions with a transaction target person is recorded, and issuing a paper receipt with the receipt data printed thereon. When the transaction target person is an electronic receipt service user not subject to receiving the paper receipt, the transaction processor processes an electronic receipt, which is a digitized receipt. When the transaction target person is not the electronic receipt service user, or when the transaction target person is the electronic receipt service user subject to receiving the paper receipt, the transaction processor issues the paper receipt with the receipt data printed thereon.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD An embodiment of the present invention relates to a transaction processing device and a control program therefor. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, so-called electronic receipt services, which allow customers to receive electronic receipts on communication devices such as smartphones, have become popular. Customers can use the electronic receipt service by registering as a member with the company that operates the electronic receipt service. Many stores also offer membership services such as point programs in order to attract customers. By registering as a member with a store, customers can receive membership services at that store.

[0003] Stores that are members of an electronic receipt service are considering automatically registering customers who register as members of the membership service at that store as members of the electronic receipt service. By doing so, customers will not only be able to receive the store's membership services, but will also be able to receive electronic receipts for transactions not only at that store, but also at other stores that are members of the electronic receipt service. This will improve customer convenience and is expected to further attract customers.

[0004] However, some customers prefer to receive paper receipts rather than electronic receipts from stores where they have registered as members. As mentioned above, if customers who register as members of a store are automatically registered as members of the electronic receipt service, it will not be possible to meet the needs of such customers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-200727 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a transaction processing device that allows even members of an electronic receipt service to receive paper receipts when making transactions at a specific store. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the transaction processing device includes a creation means, an issuing means, a processing means, a confirmation means, a first control means, and a second control means. The creation means creates receipt data that records information related to a transaction with a transaction target. The issuing means issues a paper receipt on which the receipt data is printed. The processing means processes an electronic receipt that is a computerized receipt. If the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service, the confirmation means confirms whether the transaction target is set to receive paper receipts. If the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service but is not set to receive paper receipts, the first control means controls the processing of the electronic receipt by the processing means. If the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service but is not set to receive paper receipts, the second control means controls the issuance of a paper receipt by the issuing means if the transaction target is not a user of the electronic receipt service, or if the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service and is set to receive paper receipts. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a system configuration according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of an electronic receipt database. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of an electronic receipt member database. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of a store member database. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an electronic receipt ID. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by a processor of the POS terminal according to a control program. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by a processor of the POS terminal according to a control program in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by a processor of a POS terminal according to a control program in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] 11 is a flowchart showing the main steps of information processing executed by a processor of a POS terminal according to a control program in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a transaction processing device that allows even members of an electronic receipt service to receive paper receipts when making transactions at a specific store will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] [First embodiment] 1 is a system configuration diagram of the first embodiment. The system includes an electronic receipt system 1, multiple store systems 2 (2A, 2B), and a network 3.

[0011] The electronic receipt system 1 is configured by an operating company of an electronic receipt service. The electronic receipt system 1 includes an electronic receipt management server 11 and an electronic receipt member server 12. The electronic receipt management server 11 is a server specialized in managing an electronic receipt database 13. The electronic receipt database 13 will be described in detail later using FIG. 2. The electronic receipt member server 12 is a server specialized in managing an electronic receipt member database 14. The electronic receipt member database 14 will be described in detail later using FIG. 3.

[0012] Each store system 2 is made up of stores that are members of the electronic receipt service. Although FIG. 1 shows store system 2A and store system 2B as store systems 2, the number of store systems 2 is not limited to two. Preferably, the number of store systems 2 matches the number of stores that are members of the electronic receipt service. Hereinafter, stores that are members of the electronic receipt service will be referred to as member stores. A member store may be a single independent store, or multiple stores that are part of a chain may be considered as a single member store.

[0013] Each store system 2 comprises a store member server 21, a communication server 22, multiple POS (Point Of Sales) terminals 23, and a network 24. The store member server 21 is a server specialized in managing a store member database 25. The store member database 25 will be described in detail later using FIG. 4. The communication server 22 is a server specialized in supporting data communication on the network 3.

[0014] The POS terminal 23 processes data related to transactions with customers and settles the transactions. Incidentally, transactions are not limited to transactions involving the buying and selling of goods. For example, transactions that involve facility usage fees, rental fees for goods, or payments for services are also defined as transactions. Here, the POS terminal 23 is one aspect of a transaction processing device.

[0015] The network 24 connects the multiple POS terminals 23 with the store member server 21 and the communication server 22 for free two-way communication. The network 24 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The network 24 may be the Internet or an intranet. The network 24 may also include a mobile communication network.

[0016] In this way, for each member store, a store system 2 is constructed by connecting multiple POS terminals 23 with the store member server 21 and communication server 22 via the network 24. If the member store is an independent store, it is assumed that each POS terminal 23 is installed in the store's checkout area, and the store member server 21 and communication server 22 are installed in the store's back yard. On the other hand, if the member store is a chain of multiple stores, it is assumed that each POS terminal 23 is installed in each chain store, and the store member server 21 and communication server 22 are installed in the headquarters that oversees the chain stores.

[0017] The network 3 connects the electronic receipt management server 11 and the electronic receipt member server 12 of the electronic receipt system 1 to the communication server 22 of each store system 2 for free bidirectional communication. The network 3 is typically the Internet or an intranet. The network 3 may also include a mobile communication network.

[0018] In this way, the present system is constructed by connecting the above-mentioned servers via the network 3. Thus, a customer who has made a transaction at an affiliated store can not only receive member services such as point services offered by the affiliated store, but also receive a receipt for the transaction as an electronic receipt on a communication terminal 4 such as a smartphone. In other words, a customer can receive not only member services of each affiliated store, but also an electronic receipt service when making a transaction at each affiliated store.

[0019] Typically, to receive member services, a customer must register as a member with an affiliated store. By registering as a member, the customer is issued a unique member ID. The member ID is recorded and issued on a card medium such as an IC card or magnetic card. Alternatively, the member ID is set in an application program dedicated to member services that is installed on the communication terminal 4 and issued. Hereinafter, an application program dedicated to member services will be referred to as a member app.

[0020] Furthermore, in order to use the electronic receipt service, a customer must register as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. By registering as a member, a unique electronic receipt ID is issued to the customer. The electronic receipt ID is set in an application program dedicated to the electronic receipt service by installing the program in the communication terminal 4. Hereinafter, the application program dedicated to the electronic receipt service will be referred to as an electronic receipt app.

[0021] In this embodiment, when a customer registers as a member with an affiliated store to receive member services, the customer is automatically registered as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service. Specifically, when a customer installs a member app on the communication terminal 4 and registers as a member with the affiliated store, an inquiry is generated from the communication terminal 4 as to whether or not the customer agrees to the electronic receipt service. When the customer responds to this inquiry by operating the communication terminal 4 to indicate their agreement, the customer is registered as a member with the operating company of the electronic receipt service, and the electronic receipt app is installed in the communication terminal 4. In this way, an electronic receipt ID is issued to the customer along with a member ID, and the customer performs an operation on the communication terminal 4 to link the member ID and the electronic receipt ID. By doing so, the customer will be able to receive the member services and the electronic receipt service thereafter.

[0022] On the other hand, a customer who has registered as a member of an affiliated store may already be a user of the electronic receipt service. In response to an inquiry about whether or not to accept the electronic receipt service, such a customer operates the communication terminal 4 to indicate that they are currently using the electronic receipt service. Then, the customer operates the communication terminal 4 to link the member ID with the electronic receipt ID. By doing so, the customer will be able to receive not only the electronic receipt service but also the member services of the affiliated store thereafter.

[0023] Incidentally, it is expected that some customers who have registered as members of a member store will use the electronic receipt service but would prefer to receive paper receipts at that member store. Such customers will apply to the member store to receive paper receipts. The application can be made via the communication terminal 4 or in writing. By doing so, the member store that has made the application will be able to receive paper receipts.

[0024] The details of this system, which allows the combined use of the electronic receipt service and membership service as described above, will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2 to 8. FIG.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the electronic receipt database 13. As shown in the figure, the electronic receipt database 13 stores index data and electronic receipt data in association with an electronic receipt ID. The electronic receipt data is data obtained by digitizing a receipt on which information related to a transaction with a customer is recorded. The index data is data in which the transaction date and time, store information, and total amount included in the electronic receipt data are arranged. A customer can identify the transaction in the electronic receipt data from the transaction date and time, store information, and total amount in the index data.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the electronic receipt member database 14. As shown in the figure, the electronic receipt member database 14 stores linked member IDs in association with electronic receipt IDs. A linked member ID is a member ID for which an operation to link the member ID with a corresponding electronic receipt ID has been performed. For example, in FIG. 1, when a customer who has registered as a member with a member store in which the store system 2A has been established performs an operation to link the member ID with the electronic receipt ID, the electronic receipt member database 14 stores the member ID of the member store in which the store system 2A has been established as linked member ID 1 in association with the customer's electronic receipt ID. Furthermore, when the customer also registers as a member with a member store in which the store system 2B has been established and performs an operation to link the member ID with the electronic receipt ID, the electronic receipt member database 14 stores the member ID of the member store in which the store system 2B has been established as linked member ID 2 in association with the customer's electronic receipt ID. Therefore, the number of linked member IDs stored in the electronic receipt member database 14 in association with electronic receipt IDs is arbitrary.

[0027] 4 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the store member database 25. As shown in the figure, the store member database 25 stores accumulated points P0, a first flag F1, and a second flag F2 in association with a member ID. The accumulated points P0 are the accumulated value of service points generated in transactions at the affiliated store with a customer identified by the member ID.

[0028] The first flag F1 is a flag for identifying whether or not a customer identified by the member ID is a user of the electronic receipt service. In this embodiment, the first flag F1 is set to "1" if the customer is a user of the electronic receipt service, and is set to "0" if the customer is not a user. In other words, if a customer who has registered as a member with an affiliated store is currently using the electronic receipt service or has performed an operation to consent to the electronic receipt service, the first flag F1 is set to "1." If the customer is not currently using the electronic receipt service and has not performed an operation to consent to the electronic receipt service, the first flag F1 is set to "0."

[0029] The second flag F2 is a flag used to identify whether a customer identified by the member ID will receive a paper receipt. In this embodiment, the second flag F2 is set to "1" if the customer will receive a paper receipt, and "0" if the customer will not. In other words, the second flag associated with the member ID of a customer who has requested the affiliated store to receive paper receipts will be set to "1," and the second flag associated with the member ID of a customer who has not requested this will be set to "0."

[0030] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the structure of an electronic receipt ID. As shown in the figure, an electronic receipt ID is 16-bit data. The first two bits (b1, b2) are data for identifying it as an electronic receipt ID. The next 10 bits (b3 to b12) are a unique ID for individually identifying customers who have registered as members to use the electronic receipt service. The next three bits (b13, b14, b15) are option flags. The last bit (C / D) is a check digit.

[0031] In an electronic receipt ID configured as described above, one bit (b13) of the option flag is used as a flag for identifying whether or not a receipt is to be printed, the so-called print flag b13. In this embodiment, the print flag b13 is set to "1" if a receipt is to be printed, and "0" if a receipt is not to be printed. Typically, customers who use the electronic receipt service receive receipts as electronic receipts. Therefore, the print flag b13 of the electronic receipt ID is set to "0". However, some customers want not only an electronic receipt but also a paper receipt. The print flag b13 of an electronic receipt ID issued to such customers is set to "1".

[0032] 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 23. Each member store's store system 2 (2A, 2B) is provided with a plurality of POS terminals 23. These POS terminals 23 have a common basic circuit configuration.

[0033] 6, the POS terminal 23 includes a processor 23a, a main memory 23b, an auxiliary storage device 23c, a clock 23d, a change machine interface 23e, a communication interface 23f, a keyboard 23g, a scanner 23h, a display 23i, a reader 23j, a printer 23k, and a system transmission path 23l. The system transmission path 23l includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 23l interconnects the processor 23a with the main memory 23b, the auxiliary storage device 23c, the clock 23d, the change machine interface 23e, the communication interface 23f, the keyboard 23g, the scanner 23h, the display 23i, the reader 23j, and the printer 23k. The processor 23a, the main memory 23b, and the auxiliary storage device 23c are connected via the system transmission path 23l to form a computer of the POS terminal 23.

[0034] The processor 23a corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 23a controls each part in accordance with an operating system or an application program to realize various functions of the POS terminal 23. The processor 23a is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0035] The main memory 23b corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 23b includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 23b stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 23b may store data required for the processor 23a to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 23b uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 23a. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0036] The auxiliary storage device 23c corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, the auxiliary storage device 23c may be an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The auxiliary storage device 23c stores data used by the processor 23a when performing various processes, data created by the processes of the processor 23a, etc. The auxiliary storage device 23c may also store the application programs described above.

[0037] The application programs stored in the main memory 23b or the auxiliary storage device 23c include control programs that describe information processing executed by the POS terminal 23. There are no particular limitations on the method for installing the control programs in the main memory 23b or the auxiliary storage device 23c. The control programs can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or can be distributed via communication over a network and installed in the main memory 23b or the auxiliary storage device 23c. The recording medium can be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store the programs and is readable by the device.

[0038] The clock 23d functions as a time information source for the POS terminal 23. The processor 23a keeps track of the current date and time based on the time information kept by the clock 23d.

[0039] The change machine interface 23e communicates data with the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 23e receives data on the amount of money inserted, the number of stored coins, etc. from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 23e transmits the change data to the automatic change machine.

[0040] The communication interface 23f performs data communication between the store member server 21 and the communication server 22, which are connected via the network 24, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0041] The keyboard 23g functions as an input device for the POS terminal 23. The keyboard 23g is provided with keys necessary for inputting data related to a transaction and settling the transaction, such as a numeric keypad, clear key, multiplication key, subtotal key, deposit / cash total key, credit key, and electronic money key. The deposit / cash total key, credit key, and electronic money key are closing keys that declare the closing of a transaction. The deposit / cash total key is a closing key for transactions paid in cash. The credit key is a closing key for transactions paid by credit card. The electronic money key is a closing key for transactions paid by electronic money.

[0042] The scanner 23h functions as an input device for the POS terminal 23. The scanner 23h is an example of a reading device that reads code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional data codes. For example, by holding a barcode attached to a product over the scanner 23h, the scanner 23h can read the data of the barcode. The scanner 23h may be of a type that reads a code symbol by scanning with laser light, or may be of a type that reads a code symbol from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0043] The display 23i functions as a display device for the POS terminal 23. The display 23i displays information to a store clerk who operates the POS terminal 23. The display 23i may also include a display that displays information to customers. As this type of display 23i, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display, or the like can be used. The display 23i may also be equipped with a touch panel.

[0044] The reader 23j functions as an input device for the POS terminal 23. The reader 23j is an example of a reading device that reads data recorded on a card medium such as an IC card, a magnetic card, etc. The reader 23j may be a device that reads RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) data in a non-contact manner.

[0045] The printer 23k issues receipts by printing various characters or images on receipt paper. This type of printer 23k can be, for example, a thermal printer or a dot-matrix printer.

[0046] 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing the main steps of information processing executed by the processor 23a of the POS terminal 23 in accordance with a control program. The operation of the POS terminal 23 will be described below with reference to these flowcharts. More specifically, this is the operation of the POS terminal 23 that processes actions involving the buying and selling of goods, so-called commercial transactions. Note that the content of the operation shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 and described below is an example. As long as similar results can be obtained, the processing procedure and content are not particularly limited.

[0047] First, when a customer comes to the checkout area to settle a commercial transaction, the store clerk operating the POS terminal 23 checks whether the customer is a point member. A point member is a customer who has registered with the affiliated store in order to receive a point service, which is one of the member services. A point member is issued a unique member ID. The store clerk then asks the customer to present the member ID. If the customer has installed a member app on the communication terminal 4, the customer launches the member app. A code symbol of the member ID is then displayed on the display of the communication terminal 4, and the store clerk reads the code symbol with the scanner 23h. On the other hand, if the customer presents a member card, the store clerk reads the card data with the reader 23j. The card data includes the member ID. This operation inputs the member ID into the POS terminal 23.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 7, the processor 23a of the POS terminal 23 waits for the member ID to be input in ACT1. When the member ID is input, the processor 23a determines YES in ACT1 and proceeds to ACT2. The processor 23a controls the communication interface 23f to make an inquiry to the store member server 21 in ACT2. This control causes the communication interface 23f to send an inquiry command to the store member server 21 via the network 24. The inquiry command includes the input member ID. Upon receiving the inquiry command, the store member server 21 searches the store member database 25. The store member server 21 then reads the accumulated points P0, first flag F1, and second flag F2 stored in association with the member ID included in the inquiry command, and sends an acceptance response command including this data to the POS terminal 23 that sent the inquiry command. If the member ID included in the inquiry command is not stored in the store member database 25, the store member server 21 sends an error response command to the POS terminal 23 that sent the inquiry command. The response command from the store member server 21 is sent via the network 24 to the POS terminal 23 that sent the inquiry command.

[0049] The processor 23a that sent the inquiry command checks whether or not an acceptance response command has been received in ACT 3. If the command received via the communication interface 23f is an error response command, the processor 23a determines NO in ACT 3 and treats this process as an error.

[0050] If an acceptance response command is received, the processor 23a determines YES in ACT3 and proceeds to ACT4. The processor 23a writes the cumulative points P0, the first flag F1, and the second flag F2 included in the acceptance response command to the volatile area of ​​the main memory 23b as ACT4.

[0051] Here, the computer mainly including the processor 23a executes the processes of ACT1 to ACT4 to constitute an acquisition means for acquiring an identifier that identifies the transaction target. The transaction target is a customer who presents a member ID. The identifier is the member ID.

[0052] The processor 23a checks the first flag F1 in ACT5. If the first flag F1 is "0", the processor 23a determines NO in ACT5 and proceeds to ACT6. The processor 23a sets the third flag F3 to "0" in ACT6. The third flag F3 is stored in a volatile area of ​​the main memory 23b. In this way, in the case of a transaction with a customer whose first flag F1 is "0", that is, a customer who is not a user of the electronic receipt service, the third flag F3 is set to "0".

[0053] On the other hand, if the first flag F1 is "1", the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 5 and proceeds to ACT 7. The processor 23a sets the third flag F3 to "1" in ACT 6. Thus, in the case of a transaction with a customer whose first flag F1 is "1", that is, a customer who is a user of the electronic receipt service, the third flag F3 is set to "1".

[0054] The processor 23a, which has set the third flag F3 to "1", controls the communication interface 23f to make an inquiry to the electronic receipt member server 12 as ACT8. By this control, an inquiry command is sent from the communication interface 23f to the communication server 22 via the network 24. This inquiry command includes the input member ID. Upon receiving the inquiry command, the communication server 22 sends the inquiry command to the electronic receipt member server 12 via the network 3.

[0055] Upon receiving the inquiry command, the electronic receipt member server 12 searches the electronic receipt member database 14. The electronic receipt member server 12 then checks whether or not there is a record in which the member ID included in the inquiry command is set as an associated member ID. If a corresponding record is detected, the electronic receipt member server 12 acquires the electronic receipt ID of that record. The electronic receipt member server 12 then transmits an acceptance response command including this electronic receipt ID to the POS terminal 23 that sent the inquiry command. Note that if there is no record in which the member ID included in the inquiry command is set as an associated member ID, the electronic receipt member server 12 transmits an error response command to the POS terminal 23 that sent the inquiry command. The response command from the electronic receipt member server 12 is sent to the POS terminal 23 that sent the inquiry command via the network 3, the communication server 22, and the network 24.

[0056] The processor 23a that sent the inquiry command checks whether or not an acceptance response command has been received in ACT9. If the command received via the communication interface 23f is an error response command, the processor 23a determines NO in ACT9 and treats this process as an error.

[0057] If an acceptance response command is received, the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 9 and proceeds to ACT 10. In ACT 10, the processor 23a writes the electronic receipt ID included in the acceptance response command to the volatile area of ​​the main memory 23b.

[0058] The processor 23a checks the print flag b13 of the electronic receipt ID written to the volatile area in ACT11. If the print flag b13 is "1," meaning the electronic receipt ID is set to print a receipt, the processor 23a determines NO in ACT11 and proceeds to ACT15. In ACT15, the processor 23a sets the fourth flag F4 to "1." The fourth flag F4 is stored in the volatile area of ​​the main memory 23b.

[0059] On the other hand, if the print flag b13 is "0", that is, if the electronic receipt ID is set to not print a receipt, the processor 23a determines YES in ACT11 and proceeds to ACT12. The processor 23a checks the second flag F2 written to the volatile area in ACT12. If the second flag F2 is "0", the processor 23a determines NO in ACT12 and proceeds to ACT13. The processor 23a sets the fourth flag F4 to "0" in ACT13. Thus, in the case of a transaction with a customer whose print flag b13 is "0", that is, whose electronic receipt ID is set to not print a receipt, and whose second flag F2 is "0", that is, a customer who has not requested to receive a paper receipt from the affiliated store, the fourth flag F4 is set to "0".

[0060] On the other hand, if the second flag F2 is "1", the processor 23a determines YES in ACT12 and proceeds to ACT14. The processor 23a edits the electronic receipt ID stored in the volatile area in ACT14. Specifically, the processor 23a changes the print flag b13 from "0" to "1". The processor 23a also recalculates the last one-bit check digit (C / D). After editing the electronic receipt ID in this way, the processor 23a proceeds to ACT15. The processor 23a sets the fourth flag F4 to "1" in ACT15.

[0061] In this way, the fourth flag F4 will be set to "0" not only when the print flag b13 is "1", i.e., when the electronic receipt ID is set to print a receipt, but also when the transaction is with a customer for whom the second flag F2 is "1", i.e., a customer who has requested the affiliated store to receive a paper receipt.

[0062] Here, the computer, which is mainly composed of a processor, executes the processing of ACT5 and ACT12 to constitute a confirmation means for confirming whether the transaction target is set to receive paper receipts when the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service.

[0063] More specifically, by executing the process of ACT12, the computer configures a storage unit that stores a second flag F2 that is associated with the member ID, which is an identification code that identifies the transaction target, and that sets whether or not the transaction target receives a paper receipt, i.e., a search means that searches the store member database 25. The computer then serves as a confirmation means, checking whether or not the transaction target is set to receive a paper receipt from the second flag F2 stored in association with the transaction target's member ID. Therefore, since the information on whether or not to receive a paper receipt can be managed using the second flag F2, management can be simplified. Furthermore, because the computer only needs to check the second flag F2, it can quickly and easily confirm whether or not the transaction target is set to receive a paper receipt.

[0064] In Fig. 7, when the processing of ACT6, ACT13 or ACT15 is completed, the processor 23a proceeds to ACT21 in Fig. 8. In ACT21, the processor 23a waits for product registration.

[0065] After completing the member ID entry operation, the store clerk operates the keyboard 23g or scanner 23h to register the products that the customer will purchase. After completing the registration of all the products that the customer will purchase, the store clerk enters a closing key to declare the end of the transaction.

[0066] When the product is registered, the processor 23a determines YES in ACT21 and proceeds to ACT22. In ACT22, the processor 23a processes the product sales data. That is, the processor 23a creates product sales data such as the product code, product name, unit price, number of sales, and sales amount, and registers it in the transaction area. The transaction area is formed in a volatile area of ​​the main memory 23b. The processor 23a also displays the product sales data such as the product name, unit price, number of sales, and sales amount on the display 23i.

[0067] When the processor 23a finishes processing the product sales data, it proceeds to ACT23. The processor 23a checks whether or not the registration deadline has been declared in ACT23. If the registration deadline has not been declared, the processor 23a determines NO in ACT23 and returns to ACT21. Then, when the next product is registered, the processor 23a processes the sales data of that product. Thereafter, the processor 23a repeats processing of the product sales data until the registration deadline is declared.

[0068] When any of the closing keys arranged on the keyboard 23g is pressed to declare the registration closing, the processor 23a judges YES in ACT23 and proceeds to ACT24. The processor 23a executes the settlement process in ACT24. That is, when a deposit / cash key is pressed as the closing key, the processor 23a executes the settlement process for the transaction by cash payment. When a credit key is pressed as the closing key, the processor 23a executes the settlement process for the transaction by credit card payment. When an electronic money key is pressed as the closing key, the processor 23a executes the settlement process for the transaction by electronic money payment. Note that existing processes can be applied as is to the processing of product sales data and the settlement process for payments such as cash, credit card, and electronic money. Therefore, detailed explanations will be omitted here.

[0069] After completing the payment process, the processor 23a proceeds to ACT 25. The processor 23a creates receipt data based on the product sales data registered in the transaction area in ACT 25. The receipt data includes the name, unit price, number of items sold, sales amount, etc. of the products purchased by the customer, the total number of items, the total amount, payment information, and transaction identification information such as the transaction date and time, register number, and responsible person.

[0070] Here, the computer mainly including the processor 23a executes the process of ACT25, thereby constituting a creation means for creating receipt data that records information related to the transaction with the transaction target.

[0071] Once the receipt data has been created, the processor 23a proceeds to ACT 26. In ACT 26, the processor 23a checks the third flag F3. If the third flag F3 is "1," the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 26 and proceeds to ACT 27. In ACT 27, the processor 23a checks the fourth flag F4. If the fourth flag F4 is "0," the processor 23a determines NO in ACT 27 and proceeds to ACT 28.

[0072] The processor 23a executes electronic receipt processing in ACT28. That is, the processor 23a controls the communication interface 23f to transmit the receipt data created in ACT25 as digitized receipt data to the electronic receipt management server 11 together with the electronic receipt ID stored in the main memory 23b. By this control, the electronic receipt data and the electronic receipt ID are transmitted from the communication interface 23f to the communication server 22 via the network 24. The communication server 22 transmits the electronic receipt data and the electronic receipt ID to the electronic receipt management server 11 via the network 3. The electronic receipt management server 11 creates management data from the electronic receipt data received from the POS terminal 23. Then, the electronic receipt management server 11 associates the management data and the electronic receipt data with the electronic receipt ID and stores them in the electronic receipt database 13.

[0073] On the other hand, if the third flag F3 is "0", the processor 23a determines NO in ACT 26 and proceeds to ACT 29. Similarly, if the fourth flag F4 is "1", the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 27 and proceeds to ACT 29. The processor 23a executes the receipt printing process in ACT 29. That is, the processor 23a outputs the receipt data created in ACT 25 to the printer 23k as print data. This causes the printer 23k to operate, print the receipt data on receipt paper, and issue a paper receipt.

[0074] Here, the computer having the processor 23a as its main component constitutes a processing means for processing an electronic receipt, which is a digitized receipt, by executing the processing of ACT28. Furthermore, by executing the processing of ACT29, the same computer constitutes an issuing means for issuing a paper receipt on which receipt data is printed. Furthermore, by executing the processing of YES in ACT26 and NO in ACT27, the same computer constitutes a first control means for controlling the processing of the electronic receipt by the processing means when the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service but is not set to receive paper receipts. Furthermore, by executing the processing of NO in ACT26 and YES in ACT27, the same computer constitutes a second control means for controlling the issuance of a paper receipt by the issuing means when the transaction target is not a user of the electronic receipt service, or when the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service and is set to receive paper receipts.

[0075] When the processor 23a completes the electronic receipt process or receipt printing process described above, it ends the information processing described with reference to FIGS.

[0076] In this way, in the POS terminal 23, if the customer who is the subject of a transaction is a user of the electronic receipt service, that is, if the customer has a member ID for which the first flag F1 registered in the store member database 25 is set to "1," the POS terminal 23 checks whether the customer is set to receive paper receipts. That is, it checks whether the second flag F2 associated with the member ID is set to "1." Here, if the second flag F2 is set to "1," that is, if the customer is set to receive paper receipts, a receipt for the customer is issued as a paper receipt. On the other hand, if the second flag F2 is set to "0," that is, if the customer is not set to receive paper receipts, the receipt for the customer is processed as an electronic receipt.

[0077] Therefore, even if a customer registers as a member with a member store to receive member services, and is automatically registered as a member with the company that operates the electronic receipt service, by requesting to receive paper receipts when registering as a member with the member store, the customer will be able to receive paper receipts for transactions at that member store.

[0078] Alternatively, when a customer who is already a registered member of an electronic receipt service operator registers as a member at a participating store to receive new membership services, they can request to receive paper receipts, which will allow them to receive paper receipts for transactions at that participating store.

[0079] Please note that applying for paper receipts does not have to be done at the same time as registering as a member. If you apply at any time after registering as a member, you will be able to receive paper receipts from that point on.

[0080] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in part of the information processing of the processor 23a described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Specifically, this is the processing after the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 27 of Figure 8. Therefore, Figures 1 to 7 used in the first embodiment are also used in the second embodiment as they are, and their description will be omitted.

[0081] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the second embodiment corresponding to the main processing of the first embodiment described using Fig. 8. In Fig. 9, the same processes as those in Fig. 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0082] In the second embodiment, if the third flag F3 is "1" and the fourth flag F4 is "0," i.e., if the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 26 and then NO in ACT 27, the processor 23a notifies the user that a receipt will not be printed in ACT 31. For example, the processor 23a displays guidance on the display 23i indicating that a receipt will not be printed. Alternatively, the processor 23a may output similar guidance as audio from the speaker of the POS terminal 23.

[0083] After notifying the user that a receipt should not be printed, the processor 23a checks in ACT 32 whether a receipt printing command has been issued. For example, if the keyboard 23g has a key for issuing a receipt printing command and a key for issuing a receipt non-printing command, the processor 23a waits for either key to be pressed. Alternatively, if the display 23i is a touch panel and displays a button image for issuing a receipt printing command and a button image for issuing a receipt non-printing command on its screen, the processor 23a waits for either button to be pressed. If the processor 23a detects that the key or button image for issuing a receipt printing command has been operated, the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 32 and proceeds to ACT 29. In other words, the processor 23a executes the receipt printing process.

[0084] On the other hand, if it is detected that a key or button image instructing not to print a receipt has been operated, the processor 23a determines NO in ACT 32 and proceeds to ACT 28. That is, the processor 23a executes electronic receipt processing.

[0085] By executing the process of ACT32, the computer, which is mainly comprised of the processor 23a, constitutes a receiving means for receiving an instruction to receive a paper receipt when the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service but has not set up to receive a paper receipt. Then, when the computer receives an instruction to receive a paper receipt, it controls the issuance of a paper receipt by the issuing means.

[0086] In the second embodiment, even if a customer has not requested to receive a paper receipt, they can receive a paper receipt by instructing the system to receive a paper receipt when a non-printed receipt is notified. This makes it easy to handle situations such as when a customer is shopping on behalf of a friend and wants a paper receipt just for that occasion.

[0087] Furthermore, by executing the processing of ACT31, the computer, which is mainly comprised of the processor 23a, constitutes a notification means for notifying a user of the electronic receipt service when the user has not set up to receive a paper receipt. Therefore, if a transaction target user is a user of the electronic receipt service but has not set up to receive a paper receipt, the transaction target user can be notified that a paper receipt will not be issued. As a result, as described above, if a paper receipt is only desired at that time, the transaction target user will not forget to instruct the transaction target user to receive a paper receipt.

[0088] [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in part of the information processing of the processor 23a described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Specifically, this is the processing after the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 26 of Figure 9 and the processing after the processor 23a determines NO in ACT 32. Therefore, Figures 1 to 7 used in the second embodiment are also used in the third embodiment as they are, and their description will be omitted.

[0089] Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the third embodiment corresponding to the main processing of the second embodiment described using Fig. 9. In Fig. 10, the same processes as those in Fig. 9 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0090] In the third embodiment, if the third flag F3 is "1", that is, if the processor 23a determines YES in ACT 26, the processor 23a executes electronic receipt processing in ACT 41. This electronic receipt processing is similar to the processing described in ACT 28 in the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0091] When the processor 23a finishes the electronic receipt process, it proceeds to ACT 27. In ACT 27, the processor 23a checks the fourth flag F4. If the fourth flag F4 is "1," the processor 23a proceeds to ACT 29 and executes the receipt printing process.

[0092] If the fourth flag F4 is "0", the processor 23a proceeds to ACT 31, notifies the user that a receipt will not be printed, and then waits for a command to print or not print in ACT 32. If a command to print is received, the processor 23a proceeds to ACT 29 and executes the receipt printing process.

[0093] On the other hand, if a non-printing command is issued, the processor 23a ends this process since the electronic receipt process has already been completed.

[0094] Here, in the third embodiment, the first control means constituted by a computer mainly including the processor 23a controls the processing of the electronic receipt by the processing means when the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service.

[0095] With this configuration, if a user of the electronic receipt service requests to receive paper receipts when registering as a member at a member store, the user can receive receipts not only as paper receipts but also as electronic receipts for transactions at that member store. Therefore, while receiving paper receipts, customers can use the data on the electronic receipts as data for their household account books, for example.

[0096] As described above, according to some embodiments, a transaction processing device can be provided that allows even members of an electronic receipt service to receive paper receipts when making transactions at a specific store.

[0097] The identifier acquired by the acquisition means is not limited to the member ID of an individual customer who has registered as a member with the affiliated store. For example, it may be an identifier issued to a group, such as a family member. Alternatively, it may be an identifier issued to an organization such as a corporation.

[0098] 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]

[0099] 1...electronic receipt system, 2 (2A, 2B)...store system, 3...network, 4...communication terminal, 11...electronic receipt management server, 12...electronic receipt member server, 13...electronic receipt database, 14...electronic receipt member database, 21...store member server, 22...communication server, 23...POS terminal, 23a...processor, 23b...main memory, 23c...auxiliary storage device, 23d...clock, 23e...change machine interface, 23f...communication interface, 23g...keyboard, 23h...scanner, 23i...display, 23j...reader, 23k...printer, 23l...system transmission path, 24...network, 25...store member database.

Claims

1. a creation means for creating receipt data that records information related to a transaction with a transaction target; issuing means for issuing a paper receipt on which the receipt data is printed; a processing means for processing an electronic receipt obtained by digitizing the receipt; a confirmation means for confirming whether the transaction target is set to receive paper receipts when the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service; a first control means for controlling the processing of the electronic receipt by the processing means when the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service and has not set up to receive the paper receipt; a second control means for controlling the issuing means to issue a paper receipt when the transaction target is not a user of an electronic receipt service, or when the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service and has been set to receive the paper receipt; A transaction processing device comprising:

2. a receiving means for receiving an instruction to receive the paper receipt when the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service and has not set up to receive the paper receipt; Further comprising: The transaction processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the second control means controls the issuing means to issue a paper receipt when the instruction input is received.

3. a notification means for notifying the user when the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service and has not set up to receive the paper receipt; 3. The transaction processing device of claim 2, further comprising:

4. The transaction processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the first control means controls the processing of the electronic receipt by the processing means when the transaction target person is a user of an electronic receipt service.

5. A search means for searching a storage unit that stores a flag that indicates whether or not a paper receipt is to be received in association with an identifier that identifies the transaction target; Further comprising:

5. A transaction processing device according to claim 1, wherein the confirmation means checks from the flag stored in association with the identifier whether the transaction subject identified by the identifier is set to receive a paper receipt.

6. an acquisition means for acquiring an identifier for identifying the transaction target; 6. The transaction processing device of claim 5, further comprising:

7. The transaction processing device computer a creation means for creating receipt data that records information related to a transaction with a transaction target; issuing means for issuing a paper receipt on which the receipt data is printed; a processing means for processing an electronic receipt that digitizes the receipt; a confirmation means for confirming whether or not the transaction target is set to receive paper receipts when the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service; a first control means for controlling the processing of the electronic receipt by the processing means when the transaction target is a user of an electronic receipt service and has not set up to receive the paper receipt; and a second control means for controlling the issuing means to issue a paper receipt when the transaction target is not a user of the electronic receipt service, or when the transaction target is a user of the electronic receipt service and has been set to receive the paper receipt; A control program that functions as a

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