Commodity sales data processor

Abstract

To provide a commodity sales data processor simultaneously performing transactions of a plurality of customers that causes no confusion on settlements of the plurality of customers.SOLUTION: A commodity sales data processor that performs processing related to a first customer's transaction and processing related to a second customer's transaction performed subsequently to the first customer's transaction includes controlling means for controlling not to perform settlement processing on a commodity registered corresponding to the second customer until the completion of settlement processing on a commodity registered corresponding to the first customer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a product sales data processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART A product sales data processing device that allows accounting work to be performed by a single operator is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-108290 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the case of a product sales data processing device that allows customers to process the transaction themselves, rather than an operator (store clerk), there are cases where customers become confused during the payment process for some reason. Specifically, for example, elderly people who cannot see the customer screen well or customers who are unfamiliar with operating the customer screen may become confused and take a long time to complete the payment.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has as its object to provide a product sales data processing device that prevents confusion when customers pay. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing device that performs processing related to a transaction by a first customer as well as processing related to a transaction by a second customer who makes a transaction after the first customer, and is configured to include a control means that controls so that the settlement processing for the products registered corresponding to the second customer is not performed until the settlement processing for the products registered corresponding to the first customer is completed.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing device as described above, further comprising a declaration means for declaring the start of a transaction corresponding to a second customer before the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed, and the control means may control a customer display unit configured to present information related to the transaction to customers so that the display of information related to the transaction of the second customer that was started in response to the declaration by the declaration means is prohibited until the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, wherein the control means may lift the prohibition on displaying information related to the second customer's transaction when a predetermined state is achieved after the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed, and display information related to the second customer's transaction on the customer display unit.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, wherein the control means may display information related to the transaction of the second customer on the customer display unit in response to a registration process being performed for a product corresponding to a second customer after a display notifying the completion of the settlement process corresponding to the first customer is displayed on the customer display unit.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, wherein the control means may, after a display is made on the customer display unit to notify completion of the settlement process corresponding to the first customer, display information related to the transaction of the second customer on the customer display unit in response to completion of product registration corresponding to the second customer.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, wherein the control means may, when product registration corresponding to the second customer has been completed and information indicating that the settlement process for the second customer is waiting is displayed on a clerk display unit that is configured to present information related to the transaction to a clerk, display information related to the transaction for the second customer on the customer display unit after a display notifying the completion of the settlement process for the first customer is displayed on the customer display unit.

[0012] Another aspect of the present invention is the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, wherein the control means may be configured to display information related to the second customer's transaction and information related to the first customer's transaction on a clerk display unit that is configured to present information related to the customer's transaction to the clerk until the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a product sales data processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a product sales data processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 1 is a front view of a product sales data processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a product sales data processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a display unit for store clerks. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a customer display unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a display unit for store clerks. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a customer display unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a customer display unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a display unit for store clerks. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a customer display unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a display unit for store clerks. [Figure 13] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the timing at which a checkout screen for a second customer is displayed on the customer display unit in the product sales data processing device of this embodiment. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a display unit for store clerks. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed by the product sales data processing device according to the present embodiment regarding the display on the customer display unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the exterior of a merchandise sales data processing device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 1 is a perspective view as seen from diagonally above and in front of the customer. FIG. 1 shows coordinate axes of a Cartesian coordinate system XYZ. The X axis is an axis parallel to the horizontal plane and extending laterally through the merchandise sales data processing device 1. The Y axis is an axis parallel to the horizontal plane and extending in the depth direction of the merchandise sales data processing device 1, in other words, toward the customer. The Z axis is an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane and extending in the height direction of the merchandise sales data processing device 1.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the exterior of the merchandise sales data processing device 1 from another perspective. Specifically, Fig. 2 is a perspective view as seen from diagonally above the front of the store clerk. Fig. 2 shows a store clerk S (a merchandise registrant) and a customer C facing each other across a counter table 80. The configuration of the merchandise sales data processing device 1 will be described below with reference to Figs. 1 and 2.

[0016] 1 and 2, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the merchandise sales data processing device 1 includes a store clerk display unit 10, an operation reception unit 20, a scanner unit 30, a housing 40, a support unit 41, a customer display unit 50, a change dispenser 60, and a receipt issuing unit 70. The merchandise sales data processing device 1 also includes a control unit (an example of control means) not shown. The control unit executes a merchandise registration process for registering merchandise purchases and a settlement process (payment process) after depositing money into the change dispenser 60.

[0017] The clerk display unit 10 is a display device that displays product registration display information associated with the product registration process and accounting display information associated with the payment process. For example, the product registration display information includes information such as the product name, unit price, discount amount, and quantity of the purchased product. For example, the accounting display information includes information such as the total amount, the deposit amount, the difference (change amount), and the purchased quantity. The clerk display unit 10 presents this display information to the clerk S.

[0018] For example, the clerk display unit 10 is realized by a liquid crystal display device with a touch panel that has an operation reception function. In this case, the control unit displays GUI (Graphical User Interface) buttons such as preset buttons on the clerk display unit 10. The touch panel then receives operation inputs of the GUI buttons and supplies operation information corresponding to the operation to the control unit. In addition, the clerk display unit 10 displays product registration display information associated with product registration processing in transaction-related processing, information associated with payment processing, and the like.

[0019] The operation reception unit 20 includes an input unit such as keys. For example, the input unit includes numeric keys for inputting a sales price or quantity, preset keys associated with predetermined processes, a subtotal key (product registration completion key) for causing the control unit to end the product registration process, and the like.

[0020] The scanner unit 30 is an optical reading device that reads a barcode-like product code associated with a product and supplies product code information to the control unit while the control unit is executing a product registration process. For example, the scanner unit 30 is implemented as a handheld scanner. The scanner unit 30 is attached to a base provided on the side of the housing 40. Alternatively, the scanner unit 30 may be implemented as a fixed scanner installed on the counter table 80 on the store clerk S side.

[0021] The customer display unit 50 is realized, for example, by a liquid crystal display device with a touch panel that has an operation reception function. In this case, the control unit displays GUI (Graphical User Interface) buttons such as preset buttons on the customer display unit 50. The touch panel then receives operation inputs from the GUI buttons and supplies operation information corresponding to the operation to the control unit. The customer display unit 50 also displays product registration display information associated with the product registration process, information associated with the payment process, and the like. The billing key operated by customer C may be realized by a hardware key instead of a GUI button. In this case, a keyboard having a billing key is provided near the customer display unit 50 (for example, directly to the side of or immediately in front of the customer display unit 50). The customer display unit 50 displays a GUI button as a billing key (bill button).

[0022] The housing 40 is placed on the counter table 80. However, a placement surface 81 on the counter table 80 is provided in front of the housing 40 to the store clerk S, on which purchased items can be placed. Furthermore, a customer display unit 50 is placed on the counter table 80 in front of the housing 40, with its display surface facing the customer C. The customer display unit 50 may be provided so that the angle between its display surface and the installation surface of the customer display unit 50 can be changed. The installation surface of the customer display unit 50 and the placement surface 81 may be on the same plane, or may be different. For example, the customer display unit 50 is placed above the placement surface 81 and in the vicinity of the change dispenser 60.

[0023] The clerk display unit 10 is attached via a support part 41 to the end (upper end) of the housing 40 placed on the counter table 80 opposite the installation surface side. In other words, the clerk display unit 10 is supported at a position above the placement surface 81 by the support part 41 fixed to the placement surface 81. The clerk display unit 10 is provided with its display surface facing the clerk S side. The operation receiving unit 20 is attached to the support part 41 or the clerk display unit 10, and is provided with its input part facing the clerk S side.

[0024] The clerk display unit 10 is rotatable about a vertical central axis (an axis parallel to the Z axis) of the support unit 41. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the clerk display unit 10 is swivelable within a range where it does not collide with the housing 40. Note that the clerk display unit 10 may be configured to be rotatable approximately 180 degrees (including 180 degrees) from a frontal orientation relative to the clerk S.

[0025] The clerk display unit 10 may also be rotatable within a range of, for example, 0 to approximately 120 degrees (including 120 degrees) about an axis that is perpendicular to the vertical center axis of the support unit 41 and parallel to the display surface. However, the axis parallel to the display surface here refers to, for example, an axis parallel to the display surface at a position where the display surface includes the vertical axis. For example, if the clerk display unit 10 is rotated 120 degrees about an axis that is perpendicular to the vertical center axis of the support unit 41 and parallel to the display surface, the clerk display unit 10 will be installed upside down. Therefore, in this case, the control unit controls the clerk display unit 10 so that the scanning of the display screen is reversed, thereby preventing the display from being reversed.

[0026] An advertisement 42 is provided on the surface of the housing 40 facing the customer C. The advertisement 42 may be a paper medium or a resin medium, or may be a display device that displays video or still images.

[0027] The change machine 60 is an automatic change machine that accepts banknotes and coins inserted by a customer C, performs a deposit process, and dispenses change, refunds, or rejected banknotes and coins. The change machine 60 includes a banknote management unit 61, a coin insertion slot 64, a coin ejection slot 65, and a rejection slot 66. The banknote management unit 61 has a banknote insertion slot 62 and a banknote ejection slot 63. The banknote insertion slot 62 is an opening that takes in banknotes inserted by a customer C. The banknote ejection slot 63 is an opening that ejects banknotes and rejected banknotes. The banknote insertion slot 62 and the banknote ejection slot 63 are configured in two stages. For example, in the banknote management unit 61, the banknote insertion slot 62 is in the upper stage, and the banknote ejection slot 63 is in the lower stage.

[0028] The coin insertion slot 64 is an opening for taking in coins inserted by customer C. The coin discharge slot 65 is an opening for discharging coins as change, coins that the coin recognition unit of the change machine 60 has failed to recognize, and coins that the coin recognition unit has recognized as counterfeit coins. The reject slot 66 is an opening for discharging coins when a cancellation operation is performed after depositing. The coin insertion slot 64, coin discharge slot 65, and reject slot 66 are also collectively referred to as the coin management unit. The change machine 60 may be equipped with only the coin management unit.

[0029] The receipt issuing unit 70 prints the information obtained by the control unit executing transaction-related processing on receipt paper, which is a paper medium, and outputs this printed receipt (accounting receipt) from the receipt outlet.

[0030] The change machine 60 and receipt issuing unit 70 are protrudingly installed on the customer C side of the counter table 80 (a surface parallel to the XZ plane) with the banknote insertion slot 62, banknote ejection slot 63, coin insertion slot 64, coin ejection slot 65, reject slot 66, and receipt ejection slot facing the customer C side. This arrangement reduces the risk of customer C's toes hitting the counter table 80 when customer C stands close to the change machine 60. For example, the change machine 60 and receipt issuing unit 70 are housed in a single housing, and this housing is protrudingly installed on the customer C side of the counter table 80.

[0031] Figure 3 is a front view of the merchandise sales data processing device 1, with the customer side facing forward. In Figure 3, the same components as in Figure 1 are assigned the same symbols. Figure 3 shows the coordinate axes of a Cartesian coordinate system XZ. The X axis is the horizontal axis of the merchandise sales data processing device 1, parallel to the horizontal plane. The width (horizontal width) of the merchandise sales data processing device 1 is the size in the X axis direction. The Z axis is the height axis of the merchandise sales data processing device 1, perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0032] The change dispenser 60 is disposed below the position where the customer display unit 50 is provided and in the vicinity of the customer display unit 50. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, when the surface on which the customer display unit 50 is provided and the placement surface 81 are on the same plane, the change dispenser 60 is disposed below the placement surface 81 and in the vicinity of the customer display unit 50.

[0033] In the change dispenser 60, the coin insertion slot 64 is disposed to the side of and below the banknote management unit 61. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3 , with a plane that is perpendicular to the XZ plane and includes a line A that is parallel to the Z axis, the banknote management unit 61 is disposed on the left side and the coin insertion slot 64 is disposed on the lower right side. In addition, a coin ejection slot 65 is disposed below the banknote management unit 61. With this arrangement, when the product sales data processing device 1 is viewed from above, that is, in the field of view of customer C, the coin insertion slot 64 is not obstructed by banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion slot 62 and banknotes ejected from the banknote ejection slot 63. This makes it easy to insert banknotes and coins.

[0034] A reject port 66 is provided below the coin insertion port 64. A coin ejection port 65 is provided below the banknote management unit 61. For example, the coin ejection port 65 and the rejection port 66 are provided adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction).

[0035] The receipt issuing unit 70 is disposed near the customer display unit 50 and the change dispenser 60. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the receipt issuing unit 70 is disposed above the coin slot 64 on the right side of a plane that is perpendicular to the XZ plane and includes a line A that is parallel to the Z axis.

[0036] 1 to 3, the operation reception unit 20, the clerk display unit 10, and the customer display unit 50 on the side facing the customer C are arranged so as to fit within the approximate width of the change dispenser 60. By arranging the banknote management unit 61 and the coin discharge outlet 65 in two vertical rows, the width of the change dispenser 60 can be significantly narrowed, and therefore the product sales data processing device 1 can be realized in an exceptionally compact size.

[0037] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the product sales data processing device 1. In Figure 4, the same components as in Figure 1 are assigned the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. As shown in Figure 4, the product sales data processing device 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 100, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 110, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 120, a communication unit 130, a store clerk display unit 10, an operation reception unit 20, a scanner unit 30, a customer display unit 50, a change dispenser 60, and a receipt issuing unit 70. The CPU 100, ROM 110, RAM 120, communication unit 130, store clerk display unit 10, an operation reception unit 20, a scanner unit 30, a customer display unit 50, a change dispenser 60, and a receipt issuing unit 70 are connected via signal lines and a bus.

[0038] The CPU 100 performs transaction-related processes such as product registration and payment processing by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 110. The RAM 120 stores product information (such as product code, product name, unit price, and discount amount) read from a store computer installed in the store. The RAM 120 also stores product registration display information and checkout display information. In other words, the control unit is composed of the CPU 100, ROM 110, and RAM 120, and the control unit's functions are realized by the CPU 100 executing the programs. The communication unit 130 is an interface for communicating with the store computer and other product sales data processing devices.

[0039] Next, examples of displays on the clerk display unit 10 and the customer display unit 50 of the merchandise sales data processing device 1 and an example of the basic operation of checkout by one customer will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0040] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display displayed on the store clerk display unit 10. Specifically, Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a product registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 10 during the product registration process. More specifically, Fig. 5 shows an example of the product registration screen when the third product, "potage soup," is registered as a purchased product for the first customer. That is, the product registration screen in the figure has a registered product area 330. The registered product area 330 is an area that shows products registered for one customer (one transaction). The registered product area 330 in the figure shows that "Loco Moco Bowl" is registered as the first item in the first field, "Beef Bowl" is registered as the second item in the second field, and "Potage Soup" is registered as the third item in the third field.

[0041] A selection area for each customer (each transaction) (for example, selection area 300 for the first customer in FIG. 5) is provided at the top of the product registration screen in FIG. 5. Note that selection area 300 is also called, for example, a tab. The selection area 300 for the first customer displays information 304 (value "1") indicating that the first customer is being displayed, the current deposit amount (the amount of change that the customer has deposited (inserted) into the change machine 60 up to now) 301, the current total amount (the total amount of all items that have been registered as purchased items for the customer up to now) 302, and a character 303 (a cat in Figure 5) to distinguish the customer from other customers.

[0042] In addition to or instead of the above, the selection area 300 may also display the difference between the deposit amount 301 and the total amount 302 . Specifically, for example, if the deposit amount 301 does not reach the total amount 302, the shortfall amount obtained by subtracting the deposit amount 301 from the total amount 302 may be displayed as the difference amount. Furthermore, if the deposit amount 301 exceeds the total amount 302, the excess amount obtained by subtracting the total amount 302 from the deposit amount 301 may be displayed as the difference amount. Furthermore, instead of or in addition to the above, status information indicating whether or not the transaction (payment) has been completed may be displayed in selection area 300. The same applies to selection area 320 (described below) for the second customer.

[0043] At the bottom of the product registration screen in FIG. 5, a deposit return key 305, a fishing machine status key 306, and a temporary closing key 308 are provided.

[0044] The deposit return key 305 is a key related to the return of money deposited in the change machine. By operating the deposit return key 305, money deposited in the change machine 60 can be dispensed.

[0045] The change machine status key 306 is a key related to the status (status) of the change machine 60. For example, the status of the change machine 60 may be displayed as "near end," "depositing," or "dispensing change." In the example of FIG. 5, a badge (or label, or tag)-like display 307 that reads "near end" is attached to the change machine status key 306, thereby indicating that the change machine 60 is near end. Operating the change machine status key 306 displays detailed information about the status of the change machine (for example, details about the near end, such as the denomination that is near end and the number of coins remaining).

[0046] The temporary closing key 308 is a key for suspending (temporarily suspending) processing. By operating the temporary closing key 308, processing that is currently being executed can be suspended. For example, if a customer who has had a product registered leaves the product sales data processing device 1 and goes to the sales floor to add more products, if there are only a few receipt papers left or they have run out, or if there is only a little change left (near end) or they have run out, the process will be suspended. Furthermore, the temporary closing can be released by a predetermined operation. For example, the temporary closing may be released by operating the temporary closing key 308 again. That is, by operating the temporary closing key 308, all products registered in the registered product area 330 are deleted, and the data of the products deleted from the registered product area 330 is temporarily stored. This temporarily puts the transaction on hold (i.e., temporary closing). Then, if a customer who has temporarily left the product sales data processing device 1 returns while waiting for the next customer's product registration, by pressing the temporary closing key 308 again, the product indicated by the product data stored corresponding to the returning customer is displayed again in the registered product area 330. This releases the hold (temporary closing) of the transaction, and the transaction can be resumed for the returning customer. In addition, in a mode in which multiple processes are not prohibited from being provisionally fastened at the same time, if multiple processes are provisionally fastened, the provisional fastening of a specific process may be released by operating the provisional fastening key 308 after identifying the process for which provisional fastening is to be released.

[0047] The next customer registration key 309 is a key that a store clerk operates to start a transaction for a second customer (next customer) before the processing related to the transaction for the first customer (transaction-related processing) is completed (i.e., before the settlement processing is completed). By operating the next customer registration key 309, the merchandise sales data processing device 1 displays the merchandise registration screen corresponding to the next customer on the top screen, and becomes ready to accept operations from the store clerk regarding the transaction of the next customer. Here, the transaction-related processing in this embodiment includes product registration processing, processing in response to the completion of product registration in response to subtotal key operation, and settlement processing. The next customer registration key 309 in this embodiment is included in the declaration means in this embodiment. The declaration means in this embodiment also includes a function of a control unit that displays the next customer registration key 309 and declares the start of a transaction corresponding to a second customer in response to receiving an operation on the next customer registration key 309.

[0048] Figure 6 shows an example of a display displayed on the customer display unit 50. Specifically, Figure 6(B) shows an example of a checkout screen displayed on the customer display unit 50 when the product registration screen shown in Figure 5 is displayed on the store clerk display unit 10. That is, Figure 6(B) shows an example of a checkout screen displayed on the customer display unit 50 when a third product item is registered.

[0049] The checkout screen in FIG. 6(B) has a product column 400, a total column 401, and a deposit column 402. The product column 400 displays the number of items registered to date and information about the most recently registered product. In the case of FIG. 6(B), the number "3" at the top left of the product column 400 indicates that the number of items registered to date is three. In addition, the "Potage soup 1 piece 390 yen" in the center of the product column 400 indicates that the third item is a "potage soup" that costs 390 yen.

[0050] The total amount up to now is displayed in the total column 401. In the case of FIG. 6(B), "3 items 1490 yen" in the total column 401 indicates that the total amount for the three items up to now is 1490 yen. The deposit column 402 indicates the amount of money that has been deposited up to now. In the case of FIG. 6(B), "500 yen" in the deposit column 402 indicates that the amount of money that has been deposited up to now is 500 yen.

[0051] A message is displayed below the deposit column 402. In the case of Fig. 6(B), the message "↓ Please insert money at any time" is displayed as guidance information for depositing money (or notification information for notifying that depositing money is possible). In other words, customers can insert coins into the change dispenser 60 either before or after the clerk starts product registration.

[0052] If the current deposit amount is 0 yen (no deposit has been made), "0 yen" is displayed in the deposit column 402 as shown in FIG. 6(A).

[0053] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display displayed on the clerk display unit 10. Specifically, Figure 7 shows an example of a display on the clerk display unit 10 when the subtotal key is operated while the product registration screen shown in Figure 5 is displayed on the clerk display unit 10 (while the checkout screen shown in Figure 6(B) is displayed on the customer display unit 50). In other words, it shows an example of a display on the clerk display unit 10 when product registration is complete (when the subtotal key is operated).

[0054] When the subtotal key is operated, a window 500 is displayed in front of the product registration screen, as shown in Fig. 7. The window 500 shown in Fig. 7 has a total column 501, a cash deposit column 502, a deposit cancellation key 505, a provisional closing key 508, and a next customer registration key 509. The total amount when the subtotal key is operated is displayed in the total column 501. In the case of Fig. 7, "1490 yen" in the total column 501 indicates that the total amount when the subtotal key is operated is 1490 yen. The deposit amount at the time of operating the subtotal key is displayed in the deposit amount column 502. In the case of Figure 7, "500 yen" in the deposit amount column 502 indicates that the deposit amount at the time of operating the subtotal key is 500 yen.

[0055] The deposit cancellation key 505 is a key that is operated to cancel a deposit. When the deposit cancellation key 505 is operated, the control unit stops the settlement process and causes the deposit (500 yen in the example of FIG. 5) to be discharged from the change dispenser 60, but the previous display in the registered product area 330 continues.

[0056] Next customer registration key 509 is a key that is operated to start processing for a second customer before processing for a first customer is completed, similar to next customer registration key 309 on the product registration screen. When next customer registration key 509 is operated, the control unit displays the product registration screen for the second customer. The next customer registration key 509 in this embodiment is included in the declaration means in this embodiment. The declaration means in this embodiment also includes a function of a control unit that displays the next customer registration key 509 and declares the start of a transaction corresponding to a second customer in response to receiving an operation on the next customer registration key 509.

[0057] The provisional settlement key 508 is a key for suspending (temporarily pausing) a process. By operating the provisional settlement key 508, a process in progress can be suspended. In other words, when the provisional settlement key 508 is operated, the registered product that has been displayed up to that point in the registered product area 330 is erased, and the product data of the erased product is stored. In other words, the transaction corresponding to the registered product is temporarily suspended (provisionally suspended). In addition, in this case, the amount deposited by the customer (500 yen in the example shown in the figure) is dispensed from the change dispenser 60. Thereafter, when the provisional settlement key 508 is operated again, the suspension of the transaction is released, and the registered product area 330 is again displayed with the registered product based on the product data related to the corresponding transaction.

[0058] Also, after operating the subtotal key, the deposit amount 301 and total amount 302 are hidden in the selection area 300 as shown in Figure 7, but the deposit amount 301 and total amount 302 may be displayed as in Figure 5.

[0059] As explained above, when the subtotal key is operated, window 500 is displayed, and at that time, the next customer registration key 509 for starting product registration for the next customer, the payment cancellation key 505 for the previous customer, and the provisional closing key 508 become operable (enabled). In other words, after the subtotal key is operated, both the operation for registering items for the next customer and the operation for carrying out a transaction for the previous customer become valid on window 500. This allows the store clerk to carry out operations related to product registration for the next customer even after the subtotal key is operated if the current customer is taking a long time to settle, and also allows the store clerk to resume the transaction for the previous customer even if the previous customer, who has already completed product registration, adds more items. In the example shown in the figure, the next customer registration key 509, the deposit cancellation key 505, and the provisional settlement key 508 are located within the window 500, and the store clerk can operate the next customer registration key 509, the deposit cancellation key 505, and the provisional settlement key 508 while the window 500 is displayed. The next customer registration key 509, deposit cancellation key 505, and provisional closing key 508, which can be operated after the subtotal key is operated, may each be located in an area such as a window separate from window 500. Alternatively, the deposit cancellation key may be located at the bottom of the product registration screen along with provisional closing key 308 and next customer registration key 309, with provisional closing key 308 and next customer registration key 309 remaining valid even when the subtotal key is operated, and the deposit cancellation key becoming valid when the subtotal key is operated and window 500 is displayed.

[0060] Figure 8 shows an example of a display displayed on the customer display unit 50. Specifically, Figure 8(B) shows an example of a checkout screen displayed on the customer display unit 50 when the window shown in Figure 7 is displayed on the store clerk display unit 10. That is, Figure 8(B) shows an example of a checkout screen displayed on the customer display unit 50 when product registration is complete (when the subtotal key is operated).

[0061] The accounting screen in Figure 8(B) has a total field 401, a deposit field 402, and a deficit field 403. The total field 401 displays the total amount when the subtotal key is pressed. The deposit field 402 displays the amount of deposit when the subtotal key is pressed. The deficit field 403 displays the amount of deficit when the subtotal key is pressed. In the case of Figure 8(B), "990 yen" in the deficit field 403 indicates that the amount of deficit when the subtotal key is pressed is 990 yen.

[0062] A message is displayed below the shortage column 403. In the case of FIG. 8(B), the message "Please check the amount and insert money" is displayed as guidance information to instruct the user to insert the shortage amount (or notification information to notify the user that there is an insufficient deposit). In addition, an image that evokes the idea of ​​inserting money is displayed to the right of the shortage column 403, etc. In the example of FIG. 8(B), an arrow pointing to the insertion slot is displayed as an animation (video).

[0063] In addition, if the deposit amount at the time of operating the subtotal key is 0 yen (no deposit has been made), as shown in Figure 8 (A), only the total column 401 may be displayed without displaying the deposit column 402 or the shortfall column 403.

[0064] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display displayed on the customer display unit 50. Specifically, FIG. 9(A) shows an example of a checkout screen that is displayed on the customer display unit 50 when the product registration screen shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the clerk display unit 10 (when the checkout screen shown in FIG. 8(B) is displayed on the customer display unit 50) and coins equal to or greater than the total amount are inserted into the change dispenser 60. That is, FIG. 9(A) shows an example of a checkout screen that is displayed when coins equal to or greater than the total amount are inserted into the change dispenser 60 after product registration is complete (after the subtotal key is pressed). However, if a deposit of 1 yen or more is made after the subtotal key is pressed, the display shown in FIG. 9(A) may be displayed, and the amount in the column corresponding to "Deposit" may indicate the deposited amount.

[0065] The checkout screen in FIG. 9(A) has a total field 401, a deposit field 402, and a change field 404. The total field 401 displays the total amount after coins are inserted. The deposit field 402 displays the amount of deposit after coins are inserted. The change field 404 displays the amount of change after coins are inserted. In the case of FIG. 9(A), "10 yen" in the change field 404 indicates that the amount of change after coins are inserted is 10 yen.

[0066] A message is displayed below the change column 404. In the case of Fig. 9(A), the message "You have change. Please wait a moment" is displayed as guidance information that provides guidance on receiving and receiving change (or notification information that notifies you that change is available).

[0067] If, after product registration is complete, more coins than the total amount have been inserted into the change dispenser 60, the checkout screen of FIG. 9(B) may be displayed on the customer display unit 50 instead of the checkout screen of FIG. 9(A). The checkout screen of FIG. 9(B) has a "Receipt Required" button and a "Receipt Not Required" button. The "Receipt Required" button indicates that a receipt is required (a button that instructs the issuance of a receipt). The "Receipt Not Required" button indicates that a receipt is not required (a button that instructs the issuance of a receipt). A receipt may also be issued by the receipt issuing unit 70.

[0068] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display displayed on the clerk display unit 10. Specifically, Fig. 10 shows an example of a display displayed on the clerk display unit 10 when the accounting screen shown in Fig. 9 is displayed on the customer display unit 50. That is, Fig. 10 shows an example of a display when coins equal to or greater than the total amount are inserted into the change dispenser 60 after product registration is complete (after the subtotal key is operated).

[0069] When more coins than the total amount are inserted into the change dispenser 60, the window 500 has a total field 501, a change deposit field 502, a change field 504, a deposit cancellation key 505, a temporary closing key 508, and a next customer registration key 509, as shown in FIG. 10. The total field 501 displays the total amount after the coins are inserted. The change deposit field 502 displays the amount of deposit after the coins are inserted. The change field 504 displays the amount of change after the coins are inserted. Note that if there is no change (if the total amount and the deposited amount match), the change field 504 does not need to be provided.

[0070] The deposit cancellation key 505 is a key that is operated to cancel a deposit. When the deposit cancellation key 505 is operated, the control unit stops the settlement process and dispenses the deposit (1,500 yen in the example of FIG. 10) from the change machine 60. When the deposit is dispensed from the change machine 60, the registered products in the registered product area 330 may continue to be displayed.

[0071] Next customer registration key 509 is a key that is operated to start processing for a second customer before processing for a first customer is completed. When next customer registration key 509 is operated, the control unit displays a product registration screen for another customer (second customer).

[0072] The accounting key 507 is operated to complete (terminate) the settlement process, which is the final process in the transaction-related processing flow. When the accounting key 507 is operated, the control unit dispenses change (10 yen in the example of FIG. 10), and controls the issuance of a receipt if the "receipt not required" button has not been operated. Furthermore, if the "receipt required" button has been operated, the control unit controls the issuance of a receipt.

[0073] The provisional settlement key 508 is a key for suspending (temporarily pausing) a process. By operating the provisional settlement key 508, a process in progress can be suspended. When the provisional settlement key 508 is operated, a transaction corresponding to a registered product is temporarily suspended (temporarily suspended), as in the case of FIG. 7. If the provisional settlement key 508 is then operated again, the suspension of the transaction is released, and the registered product area 330 is again displayed with the registered product data for the corresponding transaction. Also, in the case of the same figure, the amount deposited by the customer up to that point is dispensed from the change dispenser 60. If the provisional settlement key 508 is then operated again, the suspension of the transaction is released, and the registered product area 330 is again displayed with the registered product data for the corresponding transaction.

[0074] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 10, a message is displayed at the top of the product registration screen. In the case of Fig. 10, the message "Deposit has been completed" is displayed as guidance information that guides the user through the progress of transaction-related processing (or notification information that notifies the user that more coins than the total amount have been inserted).

[0075] As explained above, even when the window 500 is displayed in a state corresponding to the case where more coins than the total amount are inserted into the change dispenser 60, it is possible (effective) to operate the next customer registration key 509 corresponding to the next customer, and the deposit cancellation key 505 and provisional closing key 508 corresponding to the previous customer, as in the case of Figure 7.

[0076] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of a display displayed on customer display unit 50. Specifically, Figure 11 shows an example of the checkout screen displayed on customer display unit 50 when checkout key 507 is operated while the window shown in Figure 10 is displayed on clerk display unit 10 (while the checkout screen shown in Figure 10 is displayed on customer display unit 50).

[0077] The accounting screen in Figure 11 has a total field 401, a deposit field 402, and a change field 404. The total field 401 displays the total amount when the accounting key 507 is pressed. The deposit field 402 displays the amount of deposit when the accounting key 507 is pressed. The change field 404 displays the amount of change when the accounting key 507 is pressed.

[0078] A message is displayed below the change column 404. In the case of FIG. 11, the message "Please accept your change and receipt" is displayed as guidance information for giving instructions on receiving change, etc. (or notification information for notifying that change is available). In addition, an image that reminds the user of receiving change, etc. is displayed to the right of the change column 404, etc. In the example of FIG. 11, an arrow from the outlet is displayed as an animation (video). The information on the checkout screen shown in FIG. 11 that guides the customer on how to receive their change and receipt is called receipt reception guidance information.

[0079] According to the above explanation of FIGS. 5 to 11, the first customer performs the following actions up to the settlement of his / her transaction. That is, when a customer goes to the product sales data processing device 1 and hands the product to the store clerk, the store clerk begins registering the product. As the product is registered, an accounting screen is displayed on the customer display unit 50, as shown in FIG. 6(A). With the accounting screen displayed, the change dispenser 60 in the product sales data processing device 1 is ready to accept a deposit from the customer. That is, even before the subtotal key is pressed and the total amount of the above products has not yet been determined, the customer can deposit the payment while checking the current total amount displayed in the total field 401 on the accounting screen. Note that FIG. 6 shows an example in which a customer can deposit money into the change dispenser 60 after the first product has been registered. However, it is also possible to allow a customer to deposit money into the change dispenser 60 even when the product corresponding to the customer has not yet been registered. As the deposit is made, the current deposit amount in the deposit column 402 on the checkout screen changes according to the amount deposited, as shown in Figure 6(B). Therefore, the customer can confirm the amount they have deposited by looking at the amount shown in the deposit column 402.

[0080] Then, while the customer is making a deposit, if the store clerk completes the registration of all the customer's purchased items and operates the subtotal key, the accounting screen on the customer display unit 50 will change, for example, as shown in Figure 8(B). When a customer deposits an amount greater than the total amount into the change dispenser 60, the accounting screen on the customer display unit 50 changes to the content shown in Figure 9(A) or 9(B), and if there is change, the customer is notified of the amount of change and that the change will be dispensed after a while. In this embodiment, when the display shown in Fig. 9(A) or 9(B) is being displayed on customer display unit 50, window 500 is displayed as shown in Fig. 10. The store clerk then operates accounting key 507 located in window 500 to complete the payment process corresponding to window 500.

[0081] In response to operation of the accounting key 507, the accounting screen on the customer display unit 50 changes to the state shown in Figure 11. Then, while the accounting screen shown in Figure 11 is displayed, change is dispensed from the bill ejection slot 63 and the coin ejection slot 65, and a receipt is also dispensed from the receipt issuing unit 70. As described above, once the dispense of change and receipt is complete, the settlement process is complete. In other words, the transaction-related processes for one customer are completed. The customer takes out the dispensed change from the bill ejection port 63 and the coin ejection port 65, and receives a receipt from the receipt issuing unit 70.

[0082] The above explanation is an example of a case where transaction-related processing for one customer is started from a standby state in which transaction-related processing was not being performed in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, and the transaction-related processing for one customer is completed without the transaction-related processing for the next customer being started even during the transaction-related processing for the first customer. However, in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, a store clerk can start transaction-related processing for the next customer (next customer or second customer) in the middle of transaction-related processing for one customer (previous customer or first customer). That is, when a second customer appears while registering a product corresponding to a first customer, if the store clerk wishes to start transaction-related processing for the second customer, the store clerk operates the next customer registration key 309 located on the product registration screen corresponding to the first customer, as shown in Figure 5. In response to the operation of the next customer registration key 309, the staff display unit 10 switches to displaying a product registration screen for the second customer, as shown in Fig. 12. This makes it possible to register a product for the second customer. The figure shows an example of the product registration screen when the first product for the second customer, "Fluffy Loco Moco Bowl," is registered.

[0083] In FIG. 12, the product registration screen corresponding to the second customer is displayed superimposed on the product registration screen corresponding to the first customer. That is, in the figure, first, there is arranged a selection area 320, which is a tab corresponding to the product registration screen for the second customer. In the selection area 320, there are displayed information 324 (value "1") indicating that the second customer is being displayed, the current deposit amount 321, the current total amount 322, and an image 323 (a cow in FIG. 12) for distinguishing the second customer from the first customer. As a display priority, "1" may be displayed in the information 324 of the selection area 320 corresponding to the second customer, and "2" may be displayed in the information 304 of the selection area 300 corresponding to the first customer.

[0084] Then, selection area 300, which is a tab corresponding to the product registration screen for the first customer, is located to the right of selection area 320. By arranging selection area 300 in this manner, it is clearly indicated that the product registration screen for the first customer is located below the product registration screen for the second customer. For example, when a store clerk performs an operation on the selection area 300, the store clerk display unit 10 will display the product registration screen corresponding to the first customer moving to the front from the state shown in Figure 12, and the product registration screen corresponding to the second customer will be positioned below the product registration screen corresponding to the first customer. In other words, in the store clerk display unit 10 of this embodiment, when transaction-related processing between the first customer and the second customer has begun, transaction-related information for the second customer and transaction-related information for the first customer are displayed.

[0085] In this embodiment, the operation on the selection area 300 in the state of FIG. 12 (switching to the product registration screen for the first customer) is always valid. Alternatively, for example, when a product registration corresponding to a second customer is being performed, the product registration may be given priority, and operations on the selection area 300 may not be accepted (switching to the product registration screen for the first customer may not be possible). Then, operations on the selection area 300 may be accepted in response to the operation of the subtotal key corresponding to the second customer completing the product registration.

[0086] For example, the subtotal key may be pressed for the first customer to begin the payment process, but for some reason the first customer may have difficulty completing the payment, resulting in a situation where the payment is not completed. In such a case, for example, before the first customer has finished paying, the subtotal key may be pressed for the second customer, making it possible for the payment to be completed. In other words, a situation may arise where both the first and second customers can complete the payment. In such a case, for example, when it becomes possible to settle a bill for a second customer, it is possible to display a bill screen for the second customer in addition to the bill screen for the first customer that has been displayed up until now on customer display unit 50. However, if the bill screens for the first customer and the second customer are displayed on the same customer display unit 50 in this way, there is a risk that, for example, the first customer who is trying to settle a bill may mistakenly start the settlement process on the bill screen for the second customer, causing confusion for the customers.

[0087] Therefore, as described above, even if the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment is in a state where payment can be made for the first and second customers, it prohibits the customer display unit 50 from displaying the accounting screen for the second customer until the payment process for the first customer is completed. Then, after the payment process for the first customer is completed and the accounting screen corresponding to the first customer is erased, if it is determined that a predetermined state has been reached, the product sales data processing device 1 displays the accounting screen corresponding to the second customer.

[0088] Here, referring to Figure 13, we will explain an example of the timing at which the accounting screen for the second customer is displayed on the customer display unit 50 in response to the completion of the settlement process for the first customer and the lifting of the prohibition on displaying the accounting screen for the second customer. FIG. 13 shows that transaction-related processing for the first customer was performed between time t1 and time t2. Here, the timing of the end of the transaction-related process for the first customer, shown as time t2, corresponds to the time when the checkout screen including receipt reception guidance information (an example of a display notifying the completion of the settlement process for the first customer) is displayed, as shown in Figure 11. The checkout screen including receipt reception guidance information displayed at time t2 may be erased after a certain period of time has passed, and may be switched to a standby screen of a predetermined type, for example.

[0089] Furthermore, the figure shows three patterns of transaction-related processing corresponding to the second customer. Note that, for the sake of simplicity, the figure shows the three patterns in which the transaction-related processing corresponding to the second customer starts at the same time, t10. Time t10 is a certain time during the period in which the transaction-related processing corresponding to the first customer is being performed.

[0090] The three transaction-related processing patterns for the second customer each show example patterns for the state in which the accounting screen for the second customer should be displayed after time t2, when the settlement process for the first customer is completed. First, we will explain pattern 1 of the transaction-related processing for the second customer. In pattern 1, the first product is registered at time t11, a certain amount of time after time t10, when the transaction-related processing started, and the second product is registered at time t12, a certain amount of time after time t11. The registration of the first and second products is performed before time t2, when the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed. Following the registration of a product at time t12, a third product is registered at time t13, which is some time after time t2. First, in this embodiment, if product registration is performed after time t2, when the settlement process for the first customer is completed, as in the case of time t13 described above, the product sales data processing device 1 starts displaying the checkout screen for the second customer at the time the product registration is performed.

[0091] Next, a second pattern of transaction-related processing for the second customer will be described. In pattern 2, the first to third products are registered in order at times t21, t22, and t23, which are before time t2 and are a certain time after time t10. After that, at time t24, some time after time t2, the subtotal key is pressed. If the subtotal key is pressed after the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed, the product sales data processing device 1 starts displaying the checkout screen for the second customer.

[0092] Next, a third pattern of transaction-related processing for the second customer will be described. In pattern 3, the first and second products are registered at times t31 and t32, respectively, before time t2, a certain amount of time having elapsed since time t10. Then, the subtotal key is operated at time t33, a certain amount of time having elapsed since time t22, before time t2. In this way, if the subtotal key for the second customer is operated before the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed, the product sales data processing device 1 will start displaying the accounting screen for the second customer at the following timing. In other words, the product sales data processing device 1 starts displaying the accounting screen corresponding to the second customer from time t34, which is the time when the display time T1 of the accounting screen (Figure 11) including receipt reception guidance information, which started to be displayed on the customer display unit 50 corresponding to time t2, has elapsed. In addition, as in the case of pattern 3, if the subtotal key corresponding to the second customer is operated before the transaction-related processing corresponding to the first customer is completed, the clerk display unit 10 will display a message window MSG (an example of a state in which information indicating that the settlement processing is waiting) informing the clerk to wait for the accounting key operation corresponding to the settlement for the second customer, as illustrated in Figure 14.

[0093] In this way, in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, depending on which of the three patterns 1 to 3 described above is in effect, the customer display unit 50 will begin displaying the checkout screen for the second customer. In other words, after the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed (i.e., the settlement processing is completed), the display of the checkout screen for the second customer begins, in accordance with the fact that product registration corresponding to the second customer has been completed (Pattern 1). Furthermore, after the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed, if the subtotal key corresponding to the second customer is operated, the accounting screen corresponding to the second customer begins to be displayed (pattern 2). In addition, if the subtotal key corresponding to the second customer has already been operated before the transaction-related processing for the first customer has been completed (i.e., the settlement processing has not been completed), the accounting screen corresponding to the second customer will begin to be displayed once the transaction-related processing for the first customer has been completed (Pattern 3).

[0094] As can be understood from the above explanation, the product sales data processing device 1 in this embodiment is capable of executing transaction-related processing for the first customer as well as transaction-related processing for the second customer. Furthermore, the product sales data processing device 1 prohibits the display of the accounting screen for the second customer on the customer display unit 50 until the settlement processing for the first customer is completed, and then displays the accounting screen for the second customer at a predetermined timing after the settlement processing for the first customer is completed. As a result, even if, for example, while a first customer is confused about the payment, product registration for a second customer is completed and the second customer is also able to pay, the payment screen for the second customer will not be displayed on customer display unit 50. This prevents, for example, a customer from mistakenly paying on a payment screen that does not correspond to them, making it possible to avoid confusion during payment and improving the efficiency of customer handling.

[0095] Next, an example of a processing procedure executed by the merchandise sales data processing device 1 in this embodiment regarding the display on the customer display unit 50 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The process shown in the figure is started when only the transaction-related process for Customer 1 is being performed. Therefore, when the process shown in the figure is started, the clerk display unit 10 displays a product registration screen for Customer 1 only, such as one of Figures 5, 7, and 10, depending on the progress of the transaction-related process.

[0096] First, the control unit in the product sales data processing device 1 waits for an instruction to start a transaction-related process corresponding to the second customer (step S101-NO). Then, for example, when a store clerk operates the next customer registration key 309 in Figure 5 or the next customer registration key 509 in Figure 7 or Figure 10, an instruction to start transaction-related processing for the second customer is obtained (step S101-YES). In this case, the control unit displays the product registration screen for the second customer on the store clerk display unit 10 so as to overlap the product registration screen for the first customer, as described in Fig. 12 (step S102). After the product registration screen for the second customer is displayed by the processing of step S102, the control unit can perform the registration process for the product corresponding to the second customer in response to the product registration operation by the store clerk.

[0097] In the state where the transaction-related process for the second customer has been started as described above, the control unit waits for the first customer's payment to be processed until the payment of an amount equal to or greater than the total amount of the merchandise has been completed (step S103-NO).

[0098] As described above, when it is determined that the payment for the first customer has been completed in an amount equal to or greater than the total amount of the merchandise (step S103-YES), the control unit performs the following process. That is, the control unit displays a checkout screen including receipt reception guidance information for the first customer on the customer display unit 50, and dispenses change and a receipt (step S104). Note that if the total price of the products is the same as the deposited amount, no change will be dispensed. The process in step S104 ends when the checkout screen containing the receipt guide information is displayed for a certain period of time, which is set based on the time it takes the customer to receive their change and receipt, and the checkout screen containing the receipt guide information is then deleted. The end of the process in step S104 marks the completion of the transaction-related process for the first customer.

[0099] Furthermore, in response to the completion of the transaction-related processing for the first customer, the control unit erases the product registration screen for the first customer on the clerk display unit 10 (step S105). As a result, only the product registration screen for the second customer is displayed on the clerk display unit 10.

[0100] During the period from when the transaction-related processing for the second customer is initiated in step S102 until the transaction-related processing for the second customer is completed in step S104, processing for the second customer, such as product registration processing for the second customer and an instruction to complete product registration by operating the subtotal key, may be performed in parallel. However, even if processing for the second customer is executed, the checkout screen for the second customer will not be displayed on customer display unit 50 in response to the execution of processing for the second customer until the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed. In other words, the processing of steps S102 to S104 corresponds to display control that prohibits the display of the checkout screen for the second customer until the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed.

[0101] Thereafter, the control unit executes control to cause the customer display unit 50 to display transaction-related processing corresponding to the second customer when a state corresponding to any one of patterns 1 to 3 described in FIG. 13 is obtained. Therefore, first, the control unit determines whether or not a subtotal key operation corresponding to the second customer has already been performed until the transaction-related processing corresponding to the first customer is completed (i.e., until the processing of step S104 is completed) (step S106). The determination in step S106 is a determination as to whether or not a state corresponding to pattern 3 described in FIG. 13 has been obtained.

[0102] If the subtotal key operation corresponding to the second customer has already been performed (step S106-YES), the control unit executes step S109, which will be described later. On the other hand, if it is determined that the subtotal key operation for the second customer has not yet been performed (step S106-NO), the control unit determines whether the subtotal key operation for the second customer has been performed after the transaction-related processing for the first customer has been completed (step S107). The determination in step S107 is a determination as to whether a state corresponding to pattern 2 described in Figure 13 has been achieved.

[0103] If it is determined that the subtotal key corresponding to the second customer has been operated (step S107-YES), step S109, which will be described later, is executed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the subtotal key operation for the second customer has not been performed after the transaction-related processing for the first customer has been completed (step S107-NO), the control unit determines whether or not product registration for the second customer has been performed (step S108). The determination in step S108 is a determination as to whether or not a state corresponding to pattern 1 described in FIG. 13 has been achieved. If it is determined that product registration for the second customer has not been performed (step S108-NO), the control unit returns the process to step S107. As a result, the control unit waits for a subtotal key operation for the second customer or product registration for the second customer after the transaction-related process for the first customer is completed.

[0104] If an affirmative (YES) determination result is obtained in any of steps S106, S107, and S108, the control unit executes the following process. That is, the control unit causes the customer display unit 50 to display the checkout screen for the second customer (step S109). If product registration is completed in step S108 and the process proceeds to step S109, the transaction-related process for Customer 2 is in the state of product registration. In this case, the checkout screens shown in Figures 6(A) and 6(B) showing the product registration results up to that point are displayed, for example, at time t34 in Figure 13. Furthermore, if step S109 is reached in response to a subtotal key operation after the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed in step S107, the accounting screen shown in Figures 8(A) and 8(B) will be displayed, for example, at time t24 in Figure 13. Furthermore, if step S109 is reached because the subtotal key corresponding to the second customer is operated before the transaction-related processing corresponding to the first customer is completed in step S106, then depending on the deposit status at that time, the accounting screen shown in Figure 8 (when deposits of more than the total amount of the products have not been completed) or Figure 9 (when deposits of more than the total amount of the products have been completed) will be displayed, for example, at time t13 in Figure 13. By executing the display-related processing as shown in the figure, the display of the checkout screen (screen related to the transaction-related processing) for the second customer is prohibited until the transaction-related processing for the first customer is completed. Then, when one of patterns 1 to 3 described in Figure 13 is obtained, the checkout screen for the second customer is displayed on customer display unit 50.

[0105] In the above embodiment, it is possible to start transaction-related processing for a second customer while product registration processing is being performed for a first customer. However, for example, it is also possible to prohibit the start of transaction-related processing for a second customer while product registration processing is being performed for a first customer, and to start transaction-related processing for a second customer only after the subtotal key for the first customer is operated and product registration is completed. Even in this case, while the first customer is confused about the payment, the second customer's product registration may be completed, potentially allowing the payment process for both the first and second customers. Even in such a case, according to this embodiment, the payment screen for the second customer is prohibited from being displayed on the customer display unit 50 until the transaction-related process for the first customer is completed, thereby preventing the customer from making a payment using the payment screen that does not correspond to them.

[0106] Furthermore, the product sales data processing device 1 in this embodiment may be configured to include a change dispenser 60 and a customer display unit 50 corresponding to each of the first and second customers. In such a case, the customer display unit 50 corresponding to the second customer may be prohibited from displaying the accounting screen corresponding to the second customer until the settlement process for the first customer is completed.

[0107] As described above, the product sales data processing device 1 in this embodiment is a product sales data processing device that performs processing related to the transaction of the first customer as well as processing related to the transaction of the second customer who makes a transaction after the first customer, and is equipped with a control means that controls so that the settlement processing for the product registered corresponding to the second customer is not performed until the settlement processing for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed. According to the above configuration, the payment process for the second customer cannot be carried out until the payment process for the first customer is completed. In other words, the payment process for the second customer cannot be carried out in parallel with the payment process for the first customer. This prevents customers from being confused about which payment process, the first or second customer's, is appropriate for them, and from paying according to a payment process that is not appropriate for them, thereby improving the efficiency of customer handling.

[0108] In addition, the product sales data processing device 1 in this embodiment is further provided with a declaration means for declaring the start of a transaction corresponding to a second customer before the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed, and the control means controls the customer display unit 50, which is arranged to present information related to the transaction to the customer, so that the display of information (checkout screen) related to the transaction of the second customer that was started in response to the declaration by the declaration means is prohibited until the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed. According to the above configuration, the customer display unit 50 prohibits the display of information related to the second customer's transaction until the payment process for the product registered for the first customer is completed, so that when the first customer attempts to make a payment, he or she will only look at the screen that corresponds to him or her. In other words, the above configuration more reliably prevents the mistake of making a payment according to a payment process that does not correspond to him or her.

[0109] In addition, in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, the control means lifts the prohibition on displaying information related to the second customer's transaction when a predetermined state is achieved after the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed, and displays information related to the second customer's transaction on the customer display unit 50. According to the above configuration, after the payment process for the products registered corresponding to the first customer is completed, information related to the transaction of the second customer (checkout screen) can be displayed on the customer display unit 50 under appropriate circumstances.

[0110] In addition, in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, when a registration process for a product corresponding to a second customer is performed after the settlement process for the first customer is completed on the customer display unit 50, the control means displays information (accounting screen) related to the transaction of the second customer on the customer display unit 50. According to the above configuration, if the prohibition on displaying information related to the second customer's transaction is lifted when product registration for the first customer has not yet been completed, information related to the second customer's transaction (checkout screen) will be displayed according to when the product registration is completed. This makes it easy for the second customer, for example, who is about to pay, to know that the checkout screen related to their transaction has been displayed because the checkout screen related to their transaction is displayed when their product is registered.

[0111] In addition, in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, after the settlement process corresponding to the first customer is completed on the customer display unit 50, when product registration corresponding to the second customer is completed, the control unit displays information related to the transaction of the second customer on the customer display unit 50. According to the above configuration, if the prohibition on displaying information related to the second customer's transaction is lifted when product registration for the first customer has not yet been completed, information related to the second customer's transaction (accounting screen) will be displayed in response to product registration completion (operation of the subtotal key). This makes it easy for the second customer, for example, who is about to settle their bill to know that the accounting screen related to their transaction has been displayed, because the accounting screen related to their transaction is displayed at the time the subtotal key is operated in response to completion of product registration for that customer.

[0112] In addition, in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, when information indicating that product registration corresponding to the second customer has been completed and settlement processing corresponding to the second customer is pending is displayed, the control unit displays information related to the transaction of the second customer on the customer display unit after the settlement processing corresponding to the first customer has been completed on the customer display unit. According to the above configuration, when the subtotal key corresponding to the second customer is operated before the settlement process corresponding to the first customer is completed and the settlement process for the second customer is on hold, once the settlement process for the first customer is completed, information related to the transaction for the second customer (accounting screen) is immediately displayed.

[0113] In addition, in the product sales data processing device 1 of this embodiment, the control unit causes the clerk display unit 10, which is designed to present information related to customer transactions to the clerk, to display information related to the second customer's transaction and information related to the first customer's transaction until the settlement process for the product registered corresponding to the first customer is completed. According to the above configuration, until the settlement process for the first customer is completed, not only the product registration screen for the second customer but also the product registration screen for the first customer is displayed on the clerk display unit 10. This allows the clerk to perform operations related to the transaction-related processes for the first and second customers.

[0114] The program for implementing the functions of the product sales data processing device 1 may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be loaded into a computer system and executed to perform the processing of the product sales data processing device 1. Here, "loading a program recorded on a recording medium into a computer system and executing it" includes installing the program on a computer system. The term "computer system" here includes hardware such as an operating system and peripheral devices. The term "computer system" may also include multiple computer devices connected via a network, including the Internet, a WAN, a LAN, a dedicated line, and other communication lines. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as floppy disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. Thus, the recording medium storing the program may be a non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM. The term "recording medium" also includes internal or external recording media accessible from a distribution server for distributing the program. The program code stored on the distribution server's recording medium may be different from the program code executable on a terminal device. In other words, the format in which the program is stored on the distribution server does not matter as long as it can be downloaded from the distribution server and installed in a form that is executable on the terminal device. The program may be divided into multiple parts, each of which may be downloaded at different times and then combined on the terminal device, or each of the divided programs may be distributed by a different distribution server. Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a storage medium that stores a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) within a computer system that serves as a server or client when a program is transmitted over a network. The program may also be a program that realizes part of the above-described functions. Furthermore, the program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the above-described functions in combination with a program already stored in the computer system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1 Product sales data processing device, 10 Display unit for store clerk, 20 Operation reception unit, 30 Scanner unit, 40 Housing, 41 Support unit, 42 Advertising, 50 Display unit for customer, 60 Change dispenser, 61 Banknote management unit, 62 Banknote insertion slot, 63 Banknote ejection slot, 64 Coin insertion slot, 65 Coin ejection slot, 66 Reject slot, 70 Receipt issuing unit, 80 Counter table, 81 Placement surface, 100 CPU, 110 ROM, 120 RAM, 130 Communication unit

Claims

1. The customer-side display unit is provided so that the display surface faces the customer, and the store clerk-side display unit is provided so that the display surface faces the store clerk who performs operations according to the product registration, and the customer ... disposed in a positional relationship in which the backs of the customer-side display unit and the store clerk-side display unit face each other. a change dispenser having a deposit acceptance section for accepting deposits of currency and a discharge port for discharging currency, the change dispenser being located below the customer-side display section and the clerk-side display section; The bill insertion slot and the coin insertion slot provided in the deposit acceptance unit are disposed at different positions in the left-right direction, A receipt outlet for discharging receipts is located above the coin slot, The system is provided with a display control means for controlling the display of the total amount and an operator for starting the transaction for the next customer on the same screen in response to an operation to declare the completion of product registration, and for controlling the display of a message instructing the customer to receive change on the customer-side display unit in response to an operation to end the settlement process. Product data processing device.

2. The customer-side display unit is provided so that the display surface faces the customer, and the store clerk-side display unit is provided so that the display surface faces the store clerk who performs operations according to the product registration, and the customer ... disposed in a positional relationship in which the backs of the customer-side display unit and the store clerk-side display unit face each other. a change dispenser having a deposit acceptance section for accepting deposits of currency and a discharge port for discharging currency, the change dispenser being located below the customer-side display section and the clerk-side display section; The bill insertion slot and the coin insertion slot provided in the deposit acceptance unit are disposed at different positions in the left-right direction, A receipt outlet for discharging receipts is located above the coin slot. A display control means for controlling the display of the total amount and an operator for starting the transaction for the next customer on the same screen in response to an operation to declare the completion of the product registration, and for controlling the display of a message instructing the customer to receive the change on the customer side display unit in response to an operation to end the settlement process. A program to function as a

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