Information processing device, information processing program and information processing method

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, method and program for supporting the efficiency of a refund procedure.SOLUTION: An information processing device 1 includes a commodity registration part 101, a passport information acquisition part 102, and a display processing part 104. The commodity registration part 101 acquires commodity information about a transaction object commodity of a customer. The passport information acquisition part 102 acquires passport information of the customer. The display processing part 104 displays a refund method selection image for receiving a selection for a duty free refund method about the transaction object commodity on the basis of the acquisition of the passport information in a display part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing program, and an information processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] When non-residents, such as foreign visitors to Japan, purchase souvenirs or other items in Japan and return to their home country, they can go through the process of getting a refund at the airport or other location for the tax-free amount of the consumption tax and other items purchased at the time of departure.

[0003] When applying for a refund of the tax-free amount, if you have to check the refund method each time, it will take up a lot of time during departure procedures. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-234322 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for technology to streamline the refund process.

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that supports the improvement of efficiency in refund procedures. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the information processing device includes a product registration unit and a display processing unit. The product registration unit acquires product information about a product to be transacted by a customer from a passport information acquisition unit. The passport information acquisition unit acquires the customer's passport information. Based on the acquired passport information, the display processing unit displays a refund method selection image on the display unit for accepting selection of a tax-free refund method for the product to be transacted. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a procedure support system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example of the POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display example of the POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of tax-free transaction information according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of the data structure of the tax-free transaction information according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a passport information code according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of an information processing procedure of the procedure support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing procedure related to a modification of the POS terminal according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of each part in each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may be changed as appropriate. Also, for the sake of explanation, each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may omit components.

[0010] The following explanation will be given using a store that sells goods as an example. The store is assumed to be a physical store. The store is assumed to be a duty-free store that sells goods to non-residents. Goods include not only tangible goods but also non-tangible goods such as services. Services are services provided to customers. The store may be a store that primarily sells tangible goods, or a store that primarily sells the provision of services. The goods or services are assumed to be tax-exempt goods or tax-exempt services.

[0011] A product transaction is the transfer of costs from a customer to a store in connection with the sale of a product by the store. From the store's perspective, the transaction involves the sale of a product. From the customer's perspective, the transaction involves the purchase of a product.

[0012] For example, a store is operated by a business operator. The business operator may be of any type. For example, a business operator may operate multiple stores. The term "business operator" refers not only to the business operator itself, but also to a group of businesses. A group of businesses is a group that operates stores recognized as a group. For example, a group of businesses is a group that operates stores using the same name. A group of businesses may also include franchisees in which the business operator is involved as a franchisor.

[0013] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a procedure support system S. The procedure support system S includes a POS terminal 1 and a server 2. The POS terminal 1 and the server 2 are communicatively connected to each other via a network NA. For example, the network NA is configured from one or more networks selected from various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN. The one or more networks may include a wireless network or a wired network.

[0014] 1 shows an example in which the procedure support system S includes one POS terminal 1, but the procedure support system S may include multiple POS terminals including the POS terminal 1. The configuration of the multiple POS terminals may be the same as the configuration of the POS terminal 1.

[0015] The POS terminal 1 is a device that processes transactions at the duty-free shop X. The POS terminal 1 is mainly used by a clerk at the duty-free shop X. The clerk at the duty-free shop X may be interpreted as a clerk, a user, or a person. The clerk at the duty-free shop X is an example of a user of the POS terminal 1. For example, the POS terminal 1 has a product registration function. The POS terminal 1 uses the product registration function to process the registration of one or more products that are the subject of a transaction.

[0016] Hereinafter, product registration is also referred to as product registration. Products that are the subject of a transaction are also referred to as transaction target products. Product registration is registering a product as a transaction target product. For example, product registration includes adding data related to the transaction target products to data related to the transaction. The data related to the transaction may include data related to the transaction target products for each transaction target product. The data related to the transaction is also referred to as transaction data. The data related to the transaction target products is data about the details of the transaction target products. The data related to the transaction target products is also referred to as transaction target product data. The transaction target product data is an example of product information.

[0017] The transaction item data may include a product code of the transaction item. The product code of the transaction item is identification information that can uniquely identify the transaction item. The transaction item data may include a price of the transaction item. The price of the transaction item is the price per unit of the transaction item. The transaction item data may include a quantity of the transaction item. The quantity of the transaction item is the number of units of the transaction item included in one transaction. The transaction item data may include a type of the transaction item. The type of the transaction item is information that indicates whether the transaction item is a tax-exempt item. The type of the transaction item may include information that indicates the type of tax-exempt item. The type of tax-exempt item is, for example, general goods, consumables, etc. The transaction item data may include the amount of consumption tax on the transaction item. The amount of consumption tax on the transaction item is the amount of consumption tax per unit of the transaction item. The transaction item data may include duty-free shop identification information that can identify duty-free shop X. The duty-free shop identification information is, for example, a duty-free shop ID or a duty-free shop name. For example, the transaction data is stored in a transaction management server that manages each transaction. The transaction management server may be a server different from server 2. The transaction management server may be a cloud server. The transaction target commodity data is an example of commodity information about the transaction commodity.

[0018] For example, the POS terminal 1 has a payment function. The POS terminal 1 processes the payment of a transaction based on transaction data using the payment function. Payment is payment for the transaction. Payment includes accounting. Completion of payment by the POS terminal 1 includes the conclusion of the transaction. The POS terminal 1 is an example of a payment device with a payment function.

[0019] Payment methods for settling transactions include offline payment and online payment. Offline payment is payment that does not require the POS terminal 1 to cooperate with other devices via the network NA. For example, offline payment is payment using cash, gift certificates, etc. Online payment is payment that the POS terminal 1 executes in cooperation with other devices via the network NA. For example, online payment is credit card payment, electronic money payment, debit card payment, code payment, etc.

[0020] The server 2 is a device capable of communicating with the POS terminal 1 via the network NA. The server 2 may be a device capable of communicating with POS terminals installed in the duty-free shop X and multiple other shops. The server 2 is a device that stores various information. If the procedure support system S includes multiple POS terminals, the server 2 is a device capable of communicating with multiple POS terminals, including the POS terminal 1, via the network NA. The server 2 may be, for example, a server of an administrative agency that manages customs. The server 2 may be a server of a relay company that relays between the administrative agency and the POS terminal 1. The server 2 may be a server of a store operator. If the server 2 is not a server of an administrative agency, the tax-free transaction information stored in the server 2, which will be described later, is sent to the server of the administrative agency. The server 2 may be a device capable of communicating with a device that performs tax-free procedures at an airport, etc.

[0021] The server 2 is a device that stores information necessary for transactions at the duty-free shop X. For example, the server 2 stores tax-free transaction information. The server 2 stores tax-free transaction information of customers. The server 2 stores tax-free transaction information of customers at the duty-free shop X and multiple other duty-free shops. The server 2 acquires tax-free transaction information from the POS terminal 1, for example, via the network NA. For example, the tax-free transaction information includes data such as passport information. The passport information includes data such as name, nationality, date of birth, passport number, date of entry, date of departure, residence status, and purpose of travel. The passport number is information that can uniquely identify a customer. The passport number is an example of customer identification information. The tax-free transaction information includes refund-related information. The refund-related information is an example of information related to the tax-free refund method. The refund-related information includes information indicating the method of refunding the tax-free amount. The refund method is, for example, cash, credit card, or check. Cash may also include currency information. The currency information includes data indicating the currency type, such as Japanese currency or the currency of the other country. The check indicates, for example, a check of the other country. The other country indicates, for example, the customer's home country or the country to which the customer returns. The refund-related information may include credit card information. The credit card information includes data such as the credit card number and expiration date. Credit card information is also referred to as credit information. The tax-free transaction information may include transaction data. In the following description, the customer may be read as a user, consumer, or person. The server 2 is an example of an information processing device. The server 2 may be a server used in a cloud service. An example configuration of the server 2 will be described later.

[0022] The procedure support system S may also refer to a system including at least two devices, a POS terminal 1 and a server 2. The device includes electronic devices.

[0023] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the POS terminal 1. As shown in FIG.

[0024] The POS terminal 1 includes a processing circuit 10, a main memory 11, an auxiliary storage device 12, a change machine interface 13, a communication interface 14, a scanner 15, an input device 16, a first display device 17-1, a second display device 17-2, a printing device 18, a card reader 19, and a passport reader 20. The main memory 11, the auxiliary storage device 12, the change machine interface 13, the communication interface 14, the scanner 15, the input device 16, the first display device 17-1, the second display device 17-2, the printing device 18, the card reader 19, and the passport reader 20 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 2, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0025] The processing circuit 10 corresponds to the central part of the POS terminal 1. The processing circuit 10 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 1. The processing circuit 10 includes one or more circuits that execute multiple processes based on multiple functions. For example, the circuit may be, but is not limited to, a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). For example, the processor may be, but is not limited to, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processing circuit 10 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program is a program that can cause the processing circuit 10 to execute processes by each means described below. The processing circuit 10 executes the program loaded into the main memory 11 to perform various processes.

[0026] The main memory 11 includes elements corresponding to the main storage portion of the POS terminal 1. The main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 1. The main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 11 stores an operating system or programs in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 10. For example, the main memory 11 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 11 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the POS terminal 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 includes one or more storage devices. The storage devices may be, but are not limited to, an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 10 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 10.

[0028] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a transaction data storage area 121. The transaction data storage area 121 stores target payment information. The transaction data storage area 121 can store transaction data for one or more transactions. The data in the transaction data storage area 121 is updated by adding, updating, or deleting transaction data. The transaction data storage area 121 is an example of a storage unit of the POS terminal 1.

[0029] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a product master storage area 122. The product master storage area 122 stores a product master. The data in the product master storage area 122 is updated by adding, updating, or deleting the product master. The product master data includes various information about each product, such as the product code, price, and product name. The product master data may include information indicating the type of each product. The type may be set for each product, or for each type of product, or for each department. The type includes a type related to tax exemption. The tax exemption type may include information indicating whether the product is eligible for tax exemption. The tax exemption type may include the type of product eligible for tax exemption. The product master storage area 122 is an example of a storage unit of the POS terminal 1.

[0030] The change machine interface 13 inputs and outputs data signals to and from the automatic change machine. For example, the change machine interface 13 receives inserted amount data from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 13 outputs change amount data to the automatic change machine. The automatic change machine dispenses banknotes or coins equivalent to the change amount according to the change amount data.

[0031] The communication interface 14 includes various interfaces that connect the POS terminal 1 to other devices via the network NA in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol so that communication is possible.

[0032] The scanner 15 is a device that reads various code symbols and acquires information from the code symbols. For example, the code symbols are barcode symbols or two-dimensional code symbols. The code symbols may include a code symbol of a product that records a product code. The code symbol of a product is an image attached to the product. The code symbol may include a code symbol that records a membership code. The scanner 15 may be a camera that can read barcode symbols, two-dimensional code symbols, etc.

[0033] The input device 16 is a device that can input information to the POS terminal 1. For example, the input device 16 may include a keyboard. The input device 16 may form a touch screen together with the first display device 17-1.

[0034] The first display device 17-1 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 10. The first display device 17-1 is a display device mainly for the store clerk to view. For example, the first display device 17-1 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (Electroluminescence) display. The first display device 17-1 is an example of a display unit.

[0035] The second display device 17-2 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 10. The second display device 17-2 is a display device primarily for customers to view. For example, the second display device 17-2 is a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The second display device 17-2 is an example of a display unit.

[0036] The printing device 18 is a device for issuing transaction details by printing on a medium. For example, the medium is paper. For example, the printing device 18 is a thermal printer or an inkjet printer. The transaction details are a medium showing the details of the transaction. The transaction details are described as being a receipt, but they may also be a receipt with a space for entering the recipient's name.

[0037] For example, the transaction details include information about the store where the transaction took place, information about the date and time of the transaction, and all or part of the information about the transaction. The transaction details may also include information other than these pieces of information. For example, the information about the store where the transaction took place includes the name of the store. The information about the store where the transaction took place may also include information other than this information. For example, the information about the date and time of the transaction includes the date and time of the transaction. The information about the date and time of the transaction may also include information other than this information.

[0038] For example, the information about the transaction includes, for each product, information about the product. The information about the product includes all or part of the product code, name, price, number of units, and amount of the product. The information about the product may also include information other than these.

[0039] The information about the transaction may include a total amount of the transaction. The information about the transaction may include a payment amount. The payment amount is the amount paid for the transaction using the payment method selected by the customer. The payment amount is equal to the invoice amount. The information about the transaction may include a consumption tax amount.

[0040] The card reader 19 is a device that reads card data recorded on a card medium. The card reader 19 may include a contact reader that reads card data recorded on a magnetic stripe of the card medium. The card reader 19 may also include a contactless reader that reads card data recorded on an IC (Integrated Circuit) tag of the card medium. The IC tag includes an IC chip and an antenna.

[0041] The passport reader 20 is a device that reads data recorded on a passport. The passport reader 20 may be, for example, a device with an OCR (Optical Character Reader) function. The passport reader 20 may be a device with an image recognition function. The passport reader 20 may be a device that can read a barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. The passport reader 20 may be a device that can read an IC tag. The passport reader 20 acquires passport information.

[0042] The hardware configuration of the POS terminal 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and the POS terminal 1 allows the omission or modification of the above components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0043] Each unit realized by the processing circuit 10 will be described. The processing circuit 10 realizes a product registration unit 101, a passport information acquisition unit 102, a refund information acquisition unit 103, a display processing unit 104, an output unit 105, a payment processing unit 106, and an issuing unit 107. Each unit realized by the processing circuit 10 can also be referred to as each function. Each unit realized by the processing circuit 10 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processing circuit 10 and main memory 11.

[0044] The product registration unit 101 processes the registration of one or more transaction products. The product registration unit 101 determines whether the registered transaction product is a tax-exempt product based on the product master data stored in the product master storage area 122. The product registration unit 101 may determine the type of transaction product based on the product master data. The product registration unit 101 acquires transaction product data regarding the customer's transaction product.

[0045] The passport information acquisition unit 102 acquires the customer's passport information. The passport information acquisition unit 102 may acquire the passport information based on an input operation via the input device 16, for example. The passport information acquisition unit 102 may acquire the passport information via the passport reader 20. The passport information acquisition unit 102 may acquire the passport information by reading a two-dimensional code for customs declaration, i.e., a QR code (registered trademark), or the like, in which the passport information is recorded. The QR code for customs declaration is an example of a passport information code. The QR code (two-dimensional code) may be, for example, an image attached to a paper medium or the like, or an image that can be displayed on the customer's user terminal. In the following description, "acquire" may be read as "receive."

[0046] The refund information acquisition unit 103 acquires refund-related information of a customer. The refund-related information is an example of information related to tax-exemption refund methods. The refund-related information includes information indicating the method of refunding the tax-exempt amount. The refund-related information may also include credit card information.

[0047] The display processing unit 104 displays a tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1. The tax exemption declaration inquiry image includes, for example, a message inquiring whether the customer wants to perform the tax exemption process, an image of a "Yes" button for instructing the customer to perform the tax exemption process, and an image of a "No" button for instructing not to perform the tax exemption process. The tax exemption declaration indicates a start instruction for starting the tax exemption process. The display processing unit 104 displays a refund method selection image on the first display device 17-1. The refund method selection image includes, for example, a message inquiring about the customer's desired refund method and an image of a selection button for selecting the refund method. The selection button includes, for example, buttons for selecting "Cash (Japanese Yen)," "Cash (Country of Recipient's Currency)," "Credit Card," and "Country of Recipient's Check," etc. The country of recipient indicates, for example, the customer's home country or the country to which the customer is returning. The display processing unit 104 displays a credit information inquiry image on the first display device 17-1. The credit information inquiry image includes, for example, a message for inquiring about the customer's credit card information and an image of an input box into which the credit card information can be input.

[0048] If the customer has previously selected a refund method, the display processing unit 104 may display a refund method selection image reflecting information about the previously selected refund method on the first display device 17-1. The display processing unit 104 may display a tax exemption declaration inquiry image, a refund method selection image, and a credit information inquiry image on the second display device 17-2.

[0049] The output unit 105 outputs tax-exempt transaction information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. The output unit 105 may output passport information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. The output unit 105 may output refund-related information to the server 2. The output unit 105 may output transaction data to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. The output unit 105 may output transaction data to the transaction management server via the communication interface 14. In the following description, "output" may be read as "send."

[0050] The settlement processor 106 processes the settlement of the transaction. The issuing unit 107 issues receipts.

[0051] An example of the configuration of the server 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a configuration example of the server 2 according to the embodiment.

[0052] The server 2 is a device including a processing circuit 21, a main memory 22, an auxiliary storage device 23, and a communication interface 24. The components constituting the server 2 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 3, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0053] The processing circuit 21 corresponds to the central part of the server 2. The processing circuit 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 2. The processing circuit 21 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned processing circuit 10. The processing circuit 21 executes programs that are pre-stored in the main memory 22 or the auxiliary storage device 23, thereby enabling various processes to be performed.

[0054] The main memory 22 includes elements corresponding to the main storage portion of the server 2. The main memory 22 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned main memory 11. The main memory 22 stores programs.

[0055] The auxiliary storage device 23 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the server 2. The auxiliary storage device 23 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned auxiliary storage device 12. The auxiliary storage device 23 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 21 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processing circuit 21.

[0056] The auxiliary storage device 23 includes a tax-free transaction information storage area 230. The tax-free transaction information storage area 230 stores tax-free transaction information. The tax-free transaction information storage area 230 is updated by adding, updating, or deleting tax-free transaction information. The tax-free transaction information is a collection of tax-free transaction information records generated for each customer. The tax-free transaction information storage area 230 is an example of a storage unit of the server 2.

[0057] The communication interface 24 includes various interfaces that communicatively connect the server 2 to other devices via the network NA in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. In Fig. 3, the interfaces are denoted as "I / F".

[0058] The hardware configuration of the server 2 is not limited to the above configuration, and the server 2 may appropriately omit or change the above components and add new components.

[0059] Each unit realized by the processing circuit 21 will be described below. The processing circuitry 21 realizes an acquisition unit 210 and an output unit 211. Each unit realized by the processing circuitry 21 can also be referred to as each function. Each unit realized by the processing circuitry 21 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processing circuitry 21 and the main memory 22.

[0060] The acquisition unit 210 acquires various information via the communication interface 24. The acquisition unit 210 acquires refund-related information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24. The acquisition unit 210 may acquire passport information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24. The acquisition unit 210 may acquire transaction data from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24.

[0061] The output unit 211 outputs various information via the communication interface 24. The output unit 211 may output refund-related information to the POS terminal 1. The output unit 211 may output refund-related information to another device via the communication interface 24.

[0062] (Display example) An image displayed on the first display device 17-1 of the POS terminal 1 will now be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display example of the POS terminal 1 according to the embodiment.

[0063] 4 is a diagram showing the refund method selection image Ima displayed on the first display device 17-1. For example, the display processing unit 104 displays the refund method selection image Ima when the user instructs to perform tax exemption processing in the tax exemption declaration inquiry image. The refund method selection image Ima includes a selection button area Ara, a confirmation button Ba, and a cancel button Bb. The refund method selection image Ima may also include an area for displaying a message inquiring about the customer's desired refund method. The message inquiring about the refund method is, for example, "Please select a refund method."

[0064] The selection button area Ara includes images of selection buttons for selecting a refund method. The selection buttons include, for example, buttons such as "Cash (Japanese Yen)," "Cash (Country of Recipient's Currency)," "Credit Card," and "Country of Recipient's Check." For example, the user of the POS terminal 1 selects a selection button by touch input or the like based on the customer's selection.

[0065] The confirm button Ba is a button that allows an instruction to confirm the refund method, and the cancel button Bb is a button that allows an instruction to cancel the selection of the refund method.

[0066] According to this example, the processing circuit 10 can obtain an instruction regarding the customer's refund method based on the operation of the selection button. The user of the POS terminal 1 can easily specify the customer's refund method. For example, the processing circuit 10 outputs information indicating the refund method to the server 2. The server 2 can carry out the refund procedure based on the information indicating the refund method obtained from the POS terminal 1. In this way, the procedure support system S can support the efficiency of the refund procedure.

[0067] The processing circuitry 10 may display the refund method selection image Ima on the second display device 17-2. In this example, the customer can indicate the refund method while viewing the refund method selection image. The customer can easily select the refund method. The processing circuitry 10 can also notify the customer by displaying the image that the refund method has been selected. By notifying the customer by displaying the image, the processing circuitry 10 can give the customer a sense of security.

[0068] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display example of the POS terminal 1 according to the embodiment.

[0069] 5 is a diagram showing a credit information inquiry image Imb displayed on the first display device 17-1. For example, the display processing unit 104 displays the credit information inquiry image Imb when a user selects a credit card in the refund method selection image Ima. The credit information inquiry image Imb includes a credit card number input area Arb, a confirm button Bc, and a cancel button Bd. The credit information inquiry image Imb may also include an area for displaying a message inquiring about the customer's credit card information. The message inquiring about the credit card information may be, for example, "Please enter your credit card information."

[0070] The credit card number input area Arb includes an image of an input box for inputting a credit card number. The credit card number input area Arb includes an image of an input box for inputting the expiration date of a credit card. The input box is an area that accepts input via, for example, the input device 16. For example, the user of the POS terminal 1 inputs the customer's credit card number and expiration date via the input device 16.

[0071] The confirm button Bc is a button that can be used to input an instruction to confirm the input of credit card information.The cancel button Bd is a button that can be used to input an instruction to cancel the input of credit card information.

[0072] The credit information inquiry image is not limited to the credit information inquiry image Imb shown in Fig. 5. The display processing unit 104 may include, for example, a message prompting the user to read credit card information via the card reader 19. In this case, the user of the POS terminal 1 reads the card data recorded on the customer's credit card using the card reader 19. Alternatively, the POS terminal 1 may use a camera to read an image of the face of the card on which the credit card information is printed, and then use OCR technology to obtain the customer's credit card information.

[0073] According to this example, the processing circuit 10 can acquire the customer's credit information based on the operation of the user of the POS terminal 1. For example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the credit information to the server 2. The server 2 can carry out the refund procedure based on the credit information acquired from the POS terminal 1. In this way, the procedure support system S can support the efficiency of the refund procedure.

[0074] The processing circuitry 10 may display the credit information inquiry image Imb on the second display device 17-2. According to this example, the processing circuitry 10 can notify the customer by displaying the image that the credit information has been entered. By notifying the customer by displaying the image, the processing circuitry 10 can give the customer a sense of security.

[0075] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of tax-free transaction information according to the embodiment. 6 includes, for example, passport information, refund-related information, and transaction data. The refund-related information includes information indicating the refund method selected from "cash (Japanese yen)," "cash (currency of the recipient country)," "credit card," and "cheque of the recipient country."

[0076] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of the data structure of the tax-free transaction information according to the embodiment. 7 includes at least passport information, refund-related information, and transaction data, for example. The refund-related information includes information indicating the refund method selected from "cash (Japanese yen)," "cash (currency of recipient country)," "credit card," and "check of recipient country." If credit card is selected as the refund method, the refund-related information includes information indicating the credit card number and expiration date.

[0077] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a passport information code according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 shows a passport information code display image Imc. The passport information code display image Imc is an image displayed on, for example, a user terminal used by a customer. The user terminal is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The passport information code display image Imc includes a passport information code display area Arc. The passport information code display area Arc displays the passport information code. The passport information code is, for example, a code symbol assigned by an administrative agency that manages customs. The passport information code is, for example, a QR code. The passport information code is a code that records passport information.

[0078] For example, a customer presents a passport information code to a user of the POS terminal 1. The user of the POS terminal 1 reads the passport information code via the passport reader 20 or the scanner 15. The processing circuit 10 acquires the passport information recorded in the passport information code.

[0079] (Example of operation) The processing of the procedure support system S will be explained. In the following description focusing on the POS terminal 1, the POS terminal 1 may be read as the processing circuit 10. Similarly, in the following description focusing on the server 2, the server 2 may be read as the processing circuit 21. The processing procedures described below are merely examples, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, steps may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate depending on the embodiment. In the following example, we will explain the case where a non-resident customer is shopping at duty-free shop X. The customer purchases a product that is eligible for tax exemption.

[0080] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the information processing procedure of the procedure support system S according to the embodiment.

[0081] The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 performs a product registration process for one or more transaction products (ACT1). ACT1 may be processing by the product registration unit 101 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 10 registers the product based on a product registration operation performed by a user of the POS terminal 1. The product registration operation may include, for example, an operation of reading a code symbol attached to the product via the scanner 15. The product registration operation may also include an operation of selecting a product registration button displayed on the screen of the POS terminal 1 by touch input or the like. The processing circuit 10 acquires the product code recorded in the code symbol. The processing circuit 10 references the product master stored in the product master storage area 122 and acquires transaction product data for the product corresponding to the product code. The transaction product data includes data such as the product code, product name, product price, and product quantity. The transaction product data may also include information indicating the product's tax-exempt type. The product corresponding to the product code is also referred to as the transaction product. In addition, the processing circuit 10 may refer to the product master stored in a server such as a transaction management server, and obtain the transaction target product data of the product corresponding to the product code.

[0082] The processing circuit 10 acquires a checkout instruction based on a user operation of the POS terminal 1 (ACT2). ACT2 may be processing by the payment processing unit 106 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 10 acquires a checkout instruction based on a user operation on a product registration image displayed on the first display device 17-1. The user operation may, for example, be an operation of selecting a checkout button included in the product registration image by touch input or the like. The checkout button is a button that can be used to input a checkout instruction.

[0083] Upon receiving the checkout instruction, the processing circuit 10 displays a tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1. This processing may be performed by the display processing unit 104 implemented by the processing circuit 10. The processing circuit 10 may determine whether the items to be transacted include tax-exempt items, and if the items to be transacted include tax-exempt items, display the tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1. In this example, the processing circuit 10 can display the tax exemption declaration inquiry image depending on whether the items to be transacted include tax-exempt items. If the items to be transacted do not include tax-exempt items, the processing circuit 10 can omit displaying the tax exemption declaration inquiry image.

[0084] The processing circuit 10 acquires an instruction to start the tax exemption process based on a user operation (ACT3). ACT3 may be processing by the passport information acquisition unit 102 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 10 acquires an instruction to start the tax exemption process based on a user operation on a tax exemption declaration inquiry image displayed on the first display device 17-1. For example, the user of the POS terminal 1 selects the "Yes" button included in the tax exemption declaration inquiry image by touch input or the like.

[0085] The processing circuit 10 acquires the customer's passport information based on the acquisition of the instruction to start the tax-free process (ACT4). ACT4 may be processing by the passport information acquisition unit 102 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 10 may display a passport information input image for inputting passport information on the first display device 17-1. The passport information input image may include, for example, a message prompting the customer to input passport information. The message prompting the customer to input passport information includes, for example, messages such as "Please enter your passport information," "Please hold your passport over the reader," and "Please read the passport information code."

[0086] In one example, the processing circuit 10 acquires passport information based on an input operation by a user via the input device 16. For example, the user inputs a passport number or the like via the input device 16.

[0087] In another example, the processing circuit 10 acquires passport information based on a user's operation of reading a passport via the passport reader 20. For example, the user causes the passport reader 20 to read the passport. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the passport information via the passport reader 20 based on OCR data and image data of the passport medium. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the passport information recorded on an IC tag of the passport medium via the passport reader 20.

[0088] In yet another example, the processing circuit 10 acquires the passport information based on a user's operation of reading the passport information code via the passport reader 20. For example, the user causes the passport information code to be read by the passport reader 20. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the passport information recorded in the passport information code via the passport reader 20.

[0089] Based on the acquired passport information, the processing circuit 10 displays a refund method selection image for accepting selection of a tax-free refund method for the transaction item on the first display device 17-1 (ACT5). ACT5 may be processing by the display processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10.

[0090] The processing circuit 10 acquires an instruction to select a refund method based on a selection operation on the refund method selection image (ACT6). ACT6 may be processing by the refund information acquisition unit 103 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT6, for example, the processing circuit 10 acquires an instruction to select a refund method based on a selection operation of a selection button by a user of the POS terminal 1. The processing circuit 10 acquires information indicating a method for refunding the customer's tax-exempt amount based on the selection instruction. The information indicating the refund method is an example of information related to the tax-exempt refund method.

[0091] The processing circuit 10 determines whether a credit card has been selected as the tax-free refund method (ACT7). ACT7 may be processing by the refund information acquisition unit 103 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT7, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines whether a credit card has been selected as the tax-free refund method based on the selection operation of a selection button by the user of the POS terminal 1. When the processing circuit 10 acquires a selection instruction from the user to select a credit card, it determines that a credit card has been selected as the tax-free refund method (ACT7: YES). In this case, the processing transitions from ACT7 to ACT8. When the processing circuit 10 acquires a selection instruction from the user to select a refund method other than a credit card, it determines that a credit card has not been selected as the tax-free refund method (ACT7: NO). In this case, the processing transitions from ACT7 to ACT10.

[0092] The processing circuit 10 displays a credit information inquiry image on the first display device 17-1 based on the selection of credit card as the tax-free refund method (ACT8). ACT8 may be processing by the display processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10. The credit information inquiry image is an example of an input acceptance image for accepting input of credit card information. The credit information inquiry image may include, for example, a message prompting input of credit card information. The message prompting input of credit card information includes, for example, messages such as "Please enter your credit card information" or "Please scan your credit card."

[0093] The processing circuit 10 acquires the customer's credit card information (ACT9). ACT9 may be processing by the refund information acquisition unit 103 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT9, for example, the processing circuit 10 acquires the credit card information based on an input operation by a user via the input device 16. For example, the user inputs a credit card number, expiration date, etc. via the input device 16. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the credit card information based on the information input by the user. In another example, the processing circuit 10 acquires the credit card information based on an operation by a user to read a credit card via the card reader 19. For example, the user causes the card reader 19 to read the credit card. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the credit card information via the card reader 19.

[0094] The processing circuit 10 performs a payment process (ACT10). ACT10 may be processing by the payment processing unit 106 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT10, for example, the processing circuit 10 performs a payment process for the transaction based on the payment method selected by the customer.

[0095] The processing circuit 10 outputs tax-free transaction information (ACT11). ACT11 may be processing by the output unit 105 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT11, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs transaction product data, passport information, and refund-related information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. The refund-related information includes information indicating the refund method. The refund-related information may also include the customer's credit card information.

[0096] The processing circuitry 21 of the server 2 acquires the tax-exempt transaction information. This processing may be performed by an acquisition unit 210 implemented by the processing circuitry 21. For example, the processing circuitry 21 acquires the tax-exempt transaction information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24.

[0097] The processing circuit 21 stores the tax-exempt transaction information (ACT21). ACT21 may be processing by the acquisition unit 210 realized by the processing circuit 21. In ACT21, for example, the processing circuit 21 stores the tax-exempt transaction information in the tax-exempt transaction information storage area 230.

[0098] The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 issues a receipt (ACT12). ACT12 may be a process performed by the issuing unit 107 implemented by the processing circuit 10.

[0099] The processing circuit 21 of the server 2 may output the tax-free transaction information stored in the tax-free transaction information storage area 230 to an external device.

[0100] According to this example, the POS terminal 1 acquires product information about the merchandise to be transacted by the customer, acquires the customer's passport information, and displays a refund method selection image on the first display device 17-1 to accept the selection of a tax-free refund method for the merchandise to be transacted based on the acquired passport information. Therefore, the POS terminal 1 can select a tax-free refund method when registering a product or processing a payment for a transaction. A customer can specify a tax-free refund method prior to the tax-free processing when departing from the country. For example, a customer can efficiently receive a refund when departing from the country based on the tax-free refund method specified when registering a product or processing a payment for a transaction. A customer can complete the tax-free processing when departing from the country without registering the information required for the tax-free refund. This allows the POS terminal 1 to support the efficiency of the refund procedure. In this way, the procedure support system S can support smooth tax-free operations.

[0101] The POS terminal 1 acquires information about the customer's tax-free refund method based on a selection operation on the refund method selection image, and outputs transaction data, passport information, and information about the tax-free refund method. For example, the POS terminal 1 outputs the customer's transaction data, passport information, and information about the tax-free refund method to the server 2. The POS terminal 1 can acquire information necessary for tax-free refund processing during product registration or payment processing for one transaction, and provide the acquired information to the server 2. The server 2 can efficiently perform tax-free processing at the time of departure based on the information acquired from the POS terminal 1. For example, the server 2 can acquire information necessary for tax-free refund processing stored in the server 2 based on the customer's passport number, etc., and perform tax-free processing. This allows the POS terminal 1 to support the efficiency of refund procedures. In this way, the procedure support system S can support smooth tax-free operations.

[0102] When a credit card is selected as the tax-free refund method, the POS terminal 1 displays an input acceptance image for accepting the input of credit card information on the first display device 17-1. Therefore, the POS terminal 1 can prompt the acquisition of credit card information when registering a product or processing a payment in a transaction. A customer can present his / her credit card information prior to the tax-free processing when departing the country. For example, a customer can efficiently receive a refund when departing the country based on the credit card information presented when registering a product or processing a payment in a transaction. This allows the POS terminal 1 to support the efficiency of the refund procedure. In this way, the procedure support system S can support smooth tax-free operations.

[0103] When a credit card is selected as the tax-free refund method, the POS terminal 1 acquires the customer's credit card information and outputs the credit card information. For example, the POS terminal 1 outputs the customer's credit card information to the server 2. The server 2 can efficiently process the tax-free transaction at the time of departure based on the credit card information acquired from the POS terminal 1. This allows the POS terminal 1 to support the streamlining of the refund procedure. In this way, the procedure support system S can support smooth tax-free transaction operations.

[0104] (Variation) A variation of the above description will now be described. If the customer has previously selected a refund method, the POS terminal 1 may display on the first display device 17-1 a refund method selection image that reflects information about the previously selected refund method. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for information processing related to a modification of the POS terminal 1 according to the embodiment. The following process is a modified example of the process for displaying the refund method selection image in ACT5 of the sequence diagram shown in Fig. 9. Note that the "tax-free transaction information" in the explanation of Fig. 10 may be read as "refund-related information" as long as it includes at least the refund-related information regarding the tax-free refund method.

[0105] The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 outputs the passport information based on the acquired passport information (ACT51). ACT51 may be processing by the output unit 105 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT51, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the passport information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. The processing circuit 21 (acquisition unit 210) of the server 2 acquires the passport information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24. The processing circuit 21 acquires the customer's tax-free transaction information based on the passport information. The processing circuit 21 (output unit 211) outputs the customer's tax-free transaction information to the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24.

[0106] The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 acquires the tax-free transaction information of the customer via the communication interface 14 (ACT52). ACT52 may be processing by the refund information acquisition unit 103 realized by the processing circuit 10.

[0107] The processing circuit 10 determines whether the customer has previously selected a refund method based on the tax-free transaction information (ACT53). ACT53 may be processing by the refund information acquisition unit 103 implemented by the processing circuit 10. For example, if a tax-free refund method is recorded in the tax-free transaction information, the processing circuit 10 determines that the customer has previously selected a refund method (ACT53: YES). In this case, the processing transitions from ACT53 to ACT54. If a tax-free refund method is not recorded in the tax-free transaction information, the processing circuit 10 determines that the customer has not previously selected a refund method (ACT53: NO). In this case, the processing transitions from ACT53 to ACT55.

[0108] If the customer has previously selected a refund method, the processing circuit 10 displays a refund method selection image reflecting the previous refund method on the first display device 17-1 (ACT54). ACT54 may be processing by the display processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10.

[0109] In one example, the processing circuitry 10 may display a refund method selection image on the first display device 17-1, displaying a previously selected refund method in a recognizable manner. For example, the processing circuitry 10 may display a message indicating the previously selected refund method. The message indicating the previously selected refund method may be, for example, "Credit card selected last time." The processing circuitry 10 may display a selection button indicating the previously selected refund method in a different display manner from selection buttons indicating other refund methods. The display manner may include text color, size, font, enclosed text, text decoration such as brightness or luminance, background color, background brightness or luminance, background pattern, frame color, or blinking. This example allows the user of the POS terminal 1 to easily recognize the refund method previously selected by the customer. The user of the POS terminal 1 can, for example, inform the customer of the refund method previously selected. The customer can select the current refund method based on the previously selected refund method. The customer may select the same refund method as the previously selected refund method, or a different refund method from the previously selected refund method. The processing circuit 10 may acquire a refund method different from a previously selected refund method. If the processing circuit 10 acquires a refund method different from a previously selected refund method, the processing circuit 10 may update the previously selected refund method to the current refund method. The processing circuit 10 may specify a different refund method for each transaction.

[0110] In another example, processing circuitry 10 may display on first display device 17-1 a refund method selection image that displays only previously selected refund methods in a selectable manner. For example, processing circuitry 10 may display only selection buttons indicating previously selected refund methods in a selectable manner. Processing circuitry 10 may display selection buttons other than the selection buttons indicating previously selected refund methods in a non-selectable manner.

[0111] If the customer has not previously selected a refund method, the processing circuit 10 displays a refund method selection image on the first display device 17-1 (ACT55), similar to ACT5 in Fig. 9. ACT55 may be processing by the display processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10.

[0112] According to this example, the processing circuit 10 can perform processing according to the refund method selected in the past. The processing circuit 10 can inform the user of the POS terminal 1 of the previously selected refund method by displaying a refund method selection image. For example, the user of the POS terminal 1 may inform the customer of the previously selected refund method. The customer can select a refund method based on the previously selected refund method. Therefore, the POS terminal 1 can output information indicating the selected refund method to the server 2 based on the previously selected refund method. The server 2 can perform the refund procedure taking into account the previously selected refund method based on the information acquired from the POS terminal 1. This allows the POS terminal 1 to support the efficiency of the refund procedure. In this way, the procedure support system S can support smooth tax exemption operations.

[0113] In the above description, an example has been described in which the POS terminal 1 displays a tax-exempt declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1 based on product registration and receipt of a payment instruction. However, this is not limiting. The POS terminal 1 may also display the tax-exempt declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1 before receipt of a payment instruction. For example, the processing circuit 10 may display an image of a "Start Tax-Exemption Processing" button on the product registration image to instruct the user to perform the tax-exemption processing. The user of the POS terminal 1 operates the "Start Tax-Exemption Processing" button at any time, such as after product registration is completed, to input a start instruction to start the tax-exemption processing. The processing circuit 10 may also acquire the customer's passport information based on receipt of the start instruction (ACT4). In this example, the processing circuit 10 may omit the processing in ACT3. The processing circuit 10 may also acquire a payment instruction after processing in ACT9. The processing circuit 10 may also perform payment processing based on receipt of the payment instruction (ACT10). According to this example, the processing circuit 10 can omit the processing of displaying the tax-exemption declaration inquiry image.

[0114] The POS terminal 1 may perform the processes of ACT3 to ACT9 before performing product registration. The processing circuit 10 may, for example, display a tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1 before starting product registration. The processing circuit 10 may perform the processes of ACT4 to ACT9 based on acquiring an instruction to start tax exemption processing. The processing circuit 10 may perform product registration after processing ACT9 (ACT1). After performing product registration, the processing circuit 10 may perform the processes of ACT2, ACT10, ACT11, and ACT12. According to this example, the processing circuit 10 can perform product registration processing after the tax exemption processing is completed. The processing circuit 10 does not need to change the procedure of the product registration processing depending on whether or not tax exemption processing is performed.

[0115] In the above description, an example has been described in which the POS terminal 1 outputs tax-free transaction information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14, but this is not limiting. The POS terminal 1 may output a two-dimensional code, such as a QR code, that records tax-free transaction information. The POS terminal 1 may issue a receipt on which the two-dimensional code is printed. The POS terminal 1 may issue an electronic receipt that includes the two-dimensional code. The POS terminal 1 may output the two-dimensional code to a customer's user terminal via email, a social network service (SNS), an application, or the like. According to this example, for example, a customer can efficiently complete tax-free processing when leaving the country based on the two-dimensional code. This allows the POS terminal 1 to support the efficiency of refund procedures. In this way, the procedure support system S can support smooth tax-free operations. Furthermore, the POS terminal 1 can omit the process of outputting tax-free transaction information to the server 2.

[0116] In the above description, a POS terminal 1 having product registration and payment functions and in which a store clerk intervenes in product registration and payment has been used as an example of an information processing device, but this is not limiting. The information processing device may also be a POS terminal having product registration and payment functions that allows a customer to complete the process from product registration to payment without the intervention of a store clerk. The information processing device may also be a POS terminal having a payment function that allows a customer to make a payment without the intervention of a store clerk. In this example, product registration may be performed by a store clerk using a registration device. Product registration may also be performed by a customer using a shopping cart system with a product registration function. Product registration may also be performed by a customer using a mobile terminal owned by the customer. Product registration may also be performed by a customer using a mobile terminal prepared in advance by a store, etc. In this case, product registration is performed on the mobile terminal by the customer's operation. The transaction process is performed by a separate transaction device separate from the mobile terminal. In this case, for example, the product registration process in ACT1 of FIG. 9 is replaced with the following process. The product registration process is performed by the customer on the mobile terminal. Once the product registration is complete, the mobile device displays an image (e.g., a two-dimensional code image) on the screen of the mobile device that shows the transaction target product data generated by the product registration. The customer holds the two-dimensional code image displayed on the screen of the mobile device over the accounting device. The accounting device reads the image of the transaction target product displayed on the screen of the mobile device using a scanner or the like. This completes the product registration process in ACT1 of Figure 9. Similar processes are then executed from ACT2 onwards in Figure 9.

[0117] (Other embodiments) The information processing device may be realized by one device as explained using the POS terminal 1 as an example, or may be realized by multiple devices with distributed functions.

[0118] When the functions of the POS terminal 1 are provided in a cloud server, the information processing device may be a system that realizes the functions of the POS terminal 1 through a system including a tablet terminal communicably connected to the cloud server.

[0119] The above-described embodiments may be applied to a method executed by an apparatus, a program that can cause a computer of the apparatus to execute each function, or a recording medium that stores the program.

[0120] Each of the one or more circuits constituting the processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs a part of the multiple processes. The part of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in a single device or may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0121] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in the device according to the embodiment, or in a state where it is not stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is computer-readable.

[0122] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims.

[0123] The above embodiment may be expressed as follows. (1) a product registration unit that acquires product information about a product to be traded by a customer; a passport information acquisition unit that acquires passport information of the customer; a display processing unit that displays a refund method selection image on a display unit for accepting selection of a tax-exempt refund method for the transaction target product based on the acquired passport information; An information processing device comprising: (2) a refund information acquisition unit that acquires information about the customer's tax-free refund method based on a selection operation on the refund method selection image; an output unit that outputs the product information, the passport information, and information regarding the tax-free refund method; The information processing device according to (1) further comprises: (3) The display processing unit displays an input acceptance image for accepting input of credit card information on the display unit based on the selection of credit card as the tax-free refund method. The information processing device described in (1). (4) The refund information acquisition unit acquires the customer's credit card information, The output unit outputs the credit card information. (2) An information processing device according to the present invention. (5) To the computer: A function to acquire product information about the product being traded by the customer; Obtaining passport information of said customer; a function of displaying a refund method selection image on a display unit for accepting selection of a tax-free refund method for the transaction item based on the acquired passport information; An information processing program capable of executing the above. (6) Obtaining product information about the customer's transaction target product; obtaining passport information of said customer; displaying a refund method selection image on a display unit for accepting selection of a tax-free refund method for the transaction item based on the acquired passport information; An information processing method comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1...POS terminal, 2...server, 10...processing circuit, 11...main memory, 12...auxiliary storage device, 13...change machine interface, 14...communication interface, 15...scanner, 16...input device, 17-1...first display device, 17-2...second display device, 18...printing device, 19...card reader, 20...passport reader, 21...processing circuit, 22...main memory, 23...auxiliary storage device, 24...communication interface, 101...product registration unit, 102...passport information acquisition unit, 103...refund information acquisition unit, 104...display processing unit, 105 ...Output unit, 106...Payment processing unit, 107...Issuing unit, 121...Transaction data storage area, 122...Product master storage area, 210...Acquisition unit, 211...Output unit, 230...Tax-free transaction information storage area, Ara...Selection button area, Arb...Credit card number input area, Arc...Passport information code display area, Ba...Confirm button, Bb...Cancel button, Bc...Confirm button, Bd...Cancel button, Ima...Refund method selection image, Imb...Credit information inquiry image, Imc...Passport information code display image, NA...Network, S...Procedure support system, X...Duty-free store.

Claims

1. a product registration unit that acquires product information about a product to be traded by a customer; a passport information acquisition unit that acquires passport information of the customer; a display processing unit that displays a refund method selection image on a display unit for accepting selection of a tax-free refund method for the transaction target product based on the acquired passport information; An information processing device comprising:

2. a refund information acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the customer's tax-free refund method based on a selection operation on the refund method selection image; an output unit that outputs the product information, the passport information, and information regarding the tax-free refund method; The information processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

3. the display processing unit displays an input acceptance image for accepting input of credit card information on the display unit based on the selection of credit card as the tax-free refund method. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The refund information acquisition unit acquires credit card information of the customer, The output unit outputs the credit card information. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

5. On the computer, A function to acquire product information about the product being traded by the customer; Obtaining passport information of said customer; a function of displaying a refund method selection image on a display unit for accepting selection of a tax-free refund method for the transaction target product based on the acquired passport information; An information processing program capable of executing the above.

6. Acquiring product information about the product being traded by the customer; obtaining passport information of said customer; displaying a refund method selection image on a display unit for accepting selection of a tax-free refund method for the transaction item based on the acquired passport information; An information processing method comprising:

Images