Sales data processing system, payment device, and program

Abstract

To suitably achieve operation of various checkouts.SOLUTION: Provided is a sales data processing system including: a first device that registers a commodity based on a registration operation of a shop clerk; a second device that pays for a commodity registered by the first device based on a payment operation of a customer using registered data registered by the first device; and a third device that pays for the commodity registered by the first device based on the payment operation of the customer using the registered data. The third device enables the payment operation of the customer based on a predetermined operation of the shop clerk in the third device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a sales data processing system, a payment device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] A known system used for checkout includes a registration device and a settlement device that can settle payments using product registration information transmitted from the registration device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-203554 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, further improvements are expected in the systems used for checkout.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique that can suitably implement various checkout operations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is a sales data processing system including a first device that registers products based on a registration operation by a store clerk, a second device that settles the payment for the products registered by the first device using the registration data registered by the first device based on a customer's checkout operation, and a third device that settles the payment for the products registered by the first device using the registration data based on the customer's checkout operation, wherein the third device is a sales data processing system that allows the customer to perform the checkout operation based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk on the third device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a network configuration of a sales system 1. [Figure 2] 1 is a configuration example of a registration device 10. [Figure 3] 2 is a configuration example of a settlement device 20. [Figure 4] 10 is a configuration example of a registration settlement device 30. [Figure 5] 1 is an example of the layout of each device. [Figure 6] 10 is a display example of the registration device 10. [Figure 7] 10 is a display example of the settlement device 20. [Figure 8] 10 shows examples of displays on the settlement device 20 and the registration device 10. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fourth machine in the first and second embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the operation of each device in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the operation of each device in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the third embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the third machine of the third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the third machine of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of each device in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 23] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second machine of the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a sales system 1 according to an embodiment. The sales system 1 (also referred to as a sales data processing system) shown in FIG. 1 includes a registration device 10, a settlement device 20, a registration settlement device 30, a registration settlement device 40, a registration settlement device 50, a transaction status management device 70, and a store controller 80. Each device is communicatively connected via a LAN 19 (which may be wired or wireless). The sales system 1 can be installed in various stores (supermarkets, convenience stores, drug stores, home centers, electronics retailers, etc.). The number of devices (terminals) shown in FIG. 1 is an example. For example, although "..." is shown to the right of the registration device 10 in FIG. 1, the number of registration devices 10 may be one or more.

[0009] The sales system 1 provides a service in which a sales clerk registers the product and the customer pays (a so-called semi-self-service service), or a service in which the customer registers the product and pays (a so-called full-self-service service).

[0010] (Registration device 10) The registration device 10 is equipped with a display unit for the clerk (clerk-side display unit 110 (described later)) and a registration unit (scanner unit 112 (described later)) on one side (clerk side), and a display unit for the customer (customer-side display unit 103 (described later)) on the other side (customer side, opposite the clerk side), and is a registration device that registers products based on the operation of the clerk. The registration device 10 and the settlement device 20 form a semi-self-service device group. In other words, products are registered in the registration device 10, and the products are settled in the settlement device 20.

[0011] In addition to transmitting registration information of products registered on the registration device 10 to the settlement device 20, the registration device 10 can also transmit registration information of products registered on the registration device 10 to devices other than the settlement device 20 (the registration settlement device 30, the registration settlement device 40, and the registration settlement device 50). In other words, although it has been described that products are registered on the registration device 10 and the products are settled on the settlement device 20, it is also possible to register products on the registration device 10 and the products are settled on a device other than the settlement device 20.

[0012] Fig. 2 shows an example of the configuration of registration device 10. As shown in Fig. 2, registration device 10 comprises a CPU 101, a memory unit 102, a customer display unit 103, a store clerk display unit 110, a key operation unit 111, a scanner unit 112, an audio output unit 113, and a communication unit 114. These units can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0013] The CPU 101 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the registration device 10 by reading and executing programs stored in the storage unit 102. The storage unit 102 stores various information (for example, information referenced or generated by the CPU 101, information acquired from the outside, etc.). The storage unit 102 is a collective term for one or more various storage members (for example, memory or storage, such as RAM, ROM, hard disk, SSD (Solid State Drive), etc.).

[0014] The customer-side display unit 103 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (touch panel) that displays various information to customers and accepts operations from customers. The store clerk-side display unit 110 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (touch panel) that displays various information to store clerks and accepts operations from store clerks. The key operation unit 111 is made up of various keys (buttons) and accepts various operations from store clerks. Note that the above-mentioned customer-side display unit 103 and store clerk-side display unit 110 may also be referred to as operation units because they accept operations.

[0015] The scanner unit 112 is operated by a store clerk to scan various codes and read information. For example, the scanner unit 112 scans a code attached to a product and reads the product code (JAN code, etc.). Also, for example, the scanner unit 112 scans a code attached to a point card (membership card) and reads customer identification information (membership identification information).

[0016] The audio output unit 113 outputs, for example, a confirmation sound, a warning sound, audio guidance, etc. The communication unit 114 transmits and receives various information. The registration device 10 may further include a payment terminal 105 (not shown) and a printing unit 107 (not shown).

[0017] (Payment device 20) The settlement device 20 is a settlement device that has a customer display unit (customer display unit 203 (described later)) and a settlement unit (payment terminal 205 (described later), change dispenser 206 (described later)) on one side (customer side), and a clerk display unit (clerk display unit 210 (described later)) on the other side (clerk side, opposite the customer side), and settles payments based on customer operations. The registration device 10 and settlement device 20 form a semi-self-service device group. In other words, as described above, products are registered in the registration device 10, and the products are settled in the settlement device 20.

[0018] The settlement device 20 can receive registration information for products registered in the registration device 10 and settle the payments for the products registered in the registration device 10, as well as receive registration information for products registered in a device other than the registration device 10 (for example, the registration settlement device 30, the registration settlement device 40, and the registration settlement device 50) and settle the payments for the products registered in that device. In other words, although it has been described that products are registered in the registration device 10 and settled at the settlement device 20, it is also possible to register products in a device other than the registration device 10 and settle the payments for the products at the settlement device 20.

[0019] Fig. 3 shows an example of the configuration of settlement device 20. As shown in Fig. 3, settlement device 20 includes a CPU 201, a memory unit 202, a customer display unit 203, a scanner unit 204, a payment terminal 205, a change dispenser 206, a printer unit 207, a store clerk display unit 210, an audio output unit 213, a communication unit 214, a camera 215, and a light-emitting unit 216. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0020] The CPU 201, memory unit 202, customer side display unit 203, clerk side display unit 210, and audio output unit 213 provided in the settlement device 20 are similar to the CPU 101, memory unit 102, customer side display unit 103, clerk side display unit 110, and audio output unit 113 provided in the registration device 10, so explanation will be omitted.

[0021] The scanner unit 204 is operated by a customer to scan various codes and read information. For example, the scanner unit 204 scans a code attached to a point card and reads customer identification information. The scanner unit 204 may also scan a code attached to a product and read the product code.

[0022] Payment terminal 205 is a non-cash payment unit that accepts payments without cash (e.g., credit, electronic money, etc.). Payment terminal 205 includes a communication unit, an information reading unit, a display unit, and an operation unit. Payment terminal 205 may further include one or more of a memory unit, an information writing unit, and a processing unit. The communication unit of payment terminal 205 transmits and receives various information. The communication unit of payment terminal 205 includes a first communication unit that is responsible for communication (wired or wireless communication) with communication unit 214A (described below), and a second communication unit that is responsible for communication (wireless communication) with external devices (e.g., an electronic money server that executes electronic money payments, a credit server that executes credit payments, a point server that executes point payments, etc.). The information reading unit of payment terminal 205 reads information stored on a payment medium (e.g., an electronic money card, a credit card, a point card, etc.). Specifically, the information reading unit of the payment terminal 205 reads information stored on a card when the card is inserted, placed (held up), or swiped. The payment terminal 205 acquires various information using the information reading unit and executes non-cash payment. Note that although the payment terminal 205 has been described as one component of the settlement device 20, the payment terminal 205 may be separate from the settlement device 20.

[0023] The change dispenser 206 is a cash settlement unit that settles with cash. The change dispenser 206 has an input port (deposit port) for banknotes and coins and an output port (withdrawal port) for banknotes and coins, counts the amount of money inserted into the input port, and dispenses change from the output port, which is the difference between the amount inserted and the purchase amount. The removal of banknotes and coins from the output port is detected by a sensor.

[0024] The printing unit 207 prints various media (receipts, invoices, coupons, etc.) and issues them from the media outlet. Removal of the media from the media outlet is detected by a sensor.

[0025] The communication unit 214 includes a communication unit 214A that is responsible for communication with the payment terminal 205 side (wired or wireless communication), and a communication unit 214B that is responsible for communication with each device in the LAN 19 (wired or wireless communication).

[0026] Camera 215 is, for example, an imaging unit that captures images of customers and their operations. Light-emitting unit 216 notifies various information (such as calling a store clerk or operating status) depending on the light-emitting mode. Payment device 20 may be equipped with a sign pole, and camera 215 and light-emitting unit 216 may be mounted on the sign pole. Payment device 20 may further be equipped with a human presence sensor 217 (not shown) that detects the presence of a person.

[0027] (Registration settlement device 30) The registration and settlement device 30 is a registration and settlement device (face-to-face semi-self-service device) that has a display unit for the clerk (clerk display unit 310 (described later)) and a registration unit (scanner unit 312 (described later)) on one side (clerk side), and a display unit for the customer (customer display unit 303 (described later)) and a settlement unit (payment terminal 305 (described later), change dispenser 306 (described later)) on the other side (customer side opposite the clerk side), and registers products based on the operation of the clerk and settles the payment based on the operation of the customer.

[0028] The registered settlement device 30 can settle the account on its own device using the registration information of the products registered on its own device, and can also transmit the registration information of the products registered on its own device to other devices (e.g., settlement device 20, other registered settlement devices 30, registered settlement device 40, registered settlement device 50). In other words, the registered settlement device 30 has a settlement unit, but can also request settlement of the products registered on its own device from other devices. The same applies to the registered settlement device 50 when the operating mode is the face-to-face semi-self mode.

[0029] The registered settlement device 30 can also receive registration information for products registered in other devices (e.g., the registration device 10, other registered settlement devices 30, the registered settlement device 40, and the registered settlement device 50) and settle the payments for the products registered in the other devices. In other words, the registered settlement device 30 has a registration unit, but can also settle the payments for products registered in the other devices. The same applies to the registered settlement device 50 when the operating mode is the face-to-face semi-self mode.

[0030] Fig. 4 shows an example of the configuration of the registration and settlement device 30. As shown in Fig. 4, the registration and settlement device 30 includes a CPU 301, a memory unit 302, a customer display unit 303, a payment terminal 305, a change dispenser 306, a printer unit 307, a store clerk display unit 310, a key operation unit 311, a scanner unit 312, an audio output unit 313, and a communication unit 314. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0031] The CPU 301, memory 302, customer display 303, clerk display 310, key operation unit 311, scanner 312, and audio output unit 313 included in the registration settlement device 30 are similar to the CPU 101, memory 102, customer display 103, clerk display 110, key operation unit 111, scanner 112, and audio output unit 113 included in the registration device 10, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. The payment terminal 305, change dispenser 306, printer 307, and communication unit 314 included in the registration settlement device 30 are similar to the payment terminal 205, change dispenser 206, printer 207, and communication unit 214 included in the settlement device 20, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. The registration settlement device 30 may further include a camera 315 (not shown), a light-emitting unit 316 (not shown), and a human presence sensor 317 (not shown).

[0032] (Registration settlement device 40) The registration and settlement device 40 is a registration and settlement device (full-self device) that has a display unit for customers (customer side display unit 403 (not shown)), a registration unit (scanner unit 404 (not shown)), a settlement unit (payment terminal 405 (not shown), change dispenser 406 (not shown)) etc. on one side (customer side), and a display unit for store clerks (store clerk side display unit 410 (not shown)) etc. on the other side (store clerk side, opposite the customer side), and registers products based on customer operations and settles payments based on customer operations.

[0033] The registered settlement device 40 may settle the payment on its own device using the registration information of the products registered on its own device, and may also transmit the registration information of the products registered on its own device to other devices (e.g., settlement device 20, registered settlement device 30, other registered settlement devices 40, registered settlement device 50). In other words, the registered settlement device 40 has a settlement unit, but may also be able to request settlement of the products registered on its own device from other devices. The same applies to the registered settlement device 50 when the operating mode is full self-service mode.

[0034] Furthermore, the registered settlement device 40 may receive registration information for products registered in other devices (e.g., registration device 10, registered settlement device 30, other registered settlement devices 40, registered settlement device 50) and settle the payments for the products registered in the other devices. In other words, the registered settlement device 40 has a registration unit, but may also be able to settle the payments for the products registered in the other devices. The same applies to the registered settlement device 50 when the operating mode is full self-service mode.

[0035] Although not shown in the figure, the registration and settlement device 40 includes a CPU 401, a memory unit 402, a customer display unit 403, a scanner unit 404, a payment terminal 405, a change dispenser 406, a printer unit 407, a store clerk display unit 410, an audio output unit 413, a communication unit 414, a camera 415, and a light emitting unit 416. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0036] The CPU 401, memory 402, customer display 403, clerk display 410, and audio output 413 provided in registration settlement device 40 are similar to the CPU 101, memory 102, customer display 103, clerk display 110, and audio output 113 provided in registration device 10, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. The payment terminal 405, change dispenser 406, printing unit 407, communication unit 414, camera 415, and light-emitting unit 416 provided in registration settlement device 40 are similar to the payment terminal 205, change dispenser 206, printing unit 207, communication unit 214, camera 215, and light-emitting unit 216 provided in settlement device 20, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0037] The scanner unit 404 is operated by a customer to scan various codes and read information. For example, the scanner unit 404 scans a code attached to a product and reads the product code. Also, for example, the scanner unit 404 scans a code attached to a point card and reads customer identification information. The registration and settlement device 40 may further include a human presence sensor 417 (not shown).

[0038] (Registration settlement device 50) The registration and settlement device 50 is a self-service device (face-to-face semi-self-service device / full-self-service device) that has multiple switchable operating modes and is equipped with a customer display unit (customer display unit 503 (not shown)), a registration unit (customer scanner unit 504 (not shown)), and a settlement unit (payment terminal 505 (not shown), change dispenser 506 (not shown)) on one side (customer side), and a clerk display unit (clerk display unit 510 (not shown)) and a registration unit (clerk scanner unit 512 (not shown)) on the other side (clerk side, opposite the customer side).The registration and settlement device 50 has at least a face-to-face semi-self-service mode and a full-self-service mode as its operating modes, and when in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode, the registration and settlement device 50 operates in the same way as the face-to-face semi-self-service device, the registration and settlement device 30, and when in the full-self-service mode, the registration and settlement device 50 operates in the same way as the full-self-service device, the registration and settlement device 40.

[0039] Although not shown in the figure, registration and settlement device 50 includes a CPU 501, a memory unit 502, a customer display unit 503, a customer scanner unit 504, a payment terminal 505, a change dispenser 506, a printer unit 507, a store clerk display unit 510, a key operation unit 511, a store clerk scanner unit 512, an audio output unit 513, a communication unit 514, a camera 515, and a light emitting unit 516. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0040] The CPU 501, memory 502, customer display 503, clerk display 510, key operation unit 511, clerk scanner 512, and audio output unit 513 provided in registration settlement apparatus 50 are similar to the CPU 101, memory 102, customer display 103, clerk display 110, key operation unit 111, scanner 112, and audio output unit 113 provided in registration apparatus 10, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. The payment terminal 505, change dispenser 506, printing unit 507, communication unit 514, camera 515, and light-emitting unit 516 provided in registration settlement apparatus 50 are similar to the payment terminal 205, change dispenser 206, printing unit 207, communication unit 214, camera 215, and light-emitting unit 216 provided in settlement apparatus 20, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. The registration and settlement device 50 may further include a human sensor 517 (not shown).

[0041] (Transaction status management device 70) The transaction status management device 70 is, for example, a personal computer. The transaction status management device 70 is a device that mainly manages each device in the LAN 19. For example, the transaction status management device 70 communicates with each device in the LAN 19 and monitors the processing status, operating status (operating status), etc. of each device in the LAN 19.

[0042] (Store Controller 80) The store controller 80 is, for example, a server. The store controller 80 communicates with each device within the LAN 19 and with devices outside the LAN 19 (for example, a headquarters server (not shown) and a payment server (not shown)). For example, the store controller 80 receives a product master (product file) and a sale file from the headquarters server and provides them to each device within the LAN 19.

[0043] The sales system 1 may also include a mobile terminal 60 (not shown) that registers products based on customer operations at the product sales floor, and a settlement device 21 (not shown) that settles the payments for the products registered by the mobile terminal 60. The mobile terminal 60 may be a smartphone owned by the customer or a smartphone loaned by the store. The mobile terminal 60 may be configured integrally with a shopping card. The settlement device 21, like the settlement device 20, settles the payments based on customer operations. The configuration of the settlement device 21 may be the same as that of the settlement device 20.

[0044] Based on the customer's operation to complete product registration, the mobile terminal 60 displays on its display a settlement code (e.g., a two-dimensional code) that allows the settlement device 21 to obtain registration information for the product registered by the mobile terminal 60. The customer causes the scanner of the settlement device 21 to read the settlement code displayed on the display of the mobile terminal 60. By reading the settlement code displayed on the display of the mobile terminal 60, the settlement device 21 obtains the product information registered by the mobile terminal 60 and executes the settlement process based on the customer's operation.

[0045] (Layout of each device) Figure 5 shows an example of the layout of each device. Figure 5(A) shows a part of the store (first lane, second lane). Figure 5(B) shows another layout (described later).

[0046] In Figure 5(A), dashed lines A and B indicate customer flow lines. Lane 1 is the lane that forms customer flow line A. Lane 2 is the lane that forms customer flow line B. Lane 1 is made up of units 1, 3, and 4. Lane 2 is made up of units 2, 5, and 4.

[0047] In FIG. 5(A), the No. 1 machine at the most upstream position of the first lane is the registration device 10. The No. 1 machine is installed above the counter C. The No. 1 machine (registration device 10) in the figure shows the customer side display unit 103 and the store clerk side display unit 110. The "Registration" shown on the store clerk side display unit 110 side indicates the presence of a "registration unit" on the store clerk side (i.e., that the store clerk can register products).

[0048] In Figure 5(A), machine No. 2, the most upstream machine in the second lane, is the registration and settlement device 30. Machine No. 2 is installed above counter C. Machine No. 2 (registration and settlement device 30) in the figure shows a customer-side display unit 303 and a store clerk-side display unit 310. "Registration" shown on the store clerk-side display unit 310 side indicates the presence of a "registration unit" on the store clerk side. "Settlement" shown on the customer-side display unit 303 side indicates the presence of a "settlement unit" on the customer side (i.e., that customers can settle their bills).

[0049] In Figure 5(A), machine No. 3 in the first lane is the settlement device 20. Machine No. 3 (payment device 20) in the figure shows a customer side display unit 203 and a store clerk side display unit 210. "Settlement" shown on the customer side display unit 203 side indicates the presence of a "payment unit" on the customer side.

[0050] In Figure 5(A), machine No. 4, which is the most downstream machine in the first lane (and second lane), is the settlement device 20. In the figure, machine No. 4 (payment device 20) shows a customer side display unit 203 and a store clerk side display unit 210. "Settlement" shown on the customer side display unit 203 side indicates the presence of a "settlement unit" on the customer side.

[0051] In Figure 5(A), machine No. 5 in the second lane is a registration settlement device 30. Machine No. 5 (registration settlement device 30) in the figure shows a customer side display unit 303 and a store clerk side display unit 310. "Registration" shown on the store clerk side display unit 310 side indicates the presence of a "registration unit" on the store clerk side. "Settlement" shown on the customer side display unit 303 side indicates the presence of a "settlement unit" on the customer side.

[0052] The basic checkout flow in lane 1 is for the clerk to register at machine 1, and for the customer to pay at machine 3 or 4. The basic checkout flow in lane 2 is for the clerk to register at machine 2, and for the customer to pay at machine 2, 5, or 4. Also, since registration at machine 5 is also possible in lane 2, depending on the situation, the clerk can register at machine 5, and for the customer to pay at machine 5, 4, or 2.

[0053] (Display example) FIG. 6 is a display example of the registration device 10. The registration device 10 (for example, the No. 1 registration device in FIG. 5(A)) displays a subtotal screen as shown in FIG. 6 on the store clerk display unit 110 based on a predetermined operation (for example, operation of the subtotal button on a registration screen not shown). The subtotal screen in FIG. 6 displays a Complete button BT10, a No. 3 registration device status button BT18A, a No. 4 registration device status button BT18B, a No. 5 registration device status button BT18C, and the like. The Complete button BT10 is a button for proceeding to settlement. The No. 3 registration device status button BT18A is a button for checking the status of the No. 3 registration device (payment device 20) in FIG. 5(A) (such as the processing status, change status, and receipt paper status). The same applies to the No. 4 registration device status button BT28B and the No. 5 registration device status button BT28C. The same applies to the status buttons of each registration device in FIGS. 8(A) to 8(H).

[0054] Other devices may also display a small plan screen such as that shown in Fig. 6. For example, the registration and settlement device 30 may display a small plan screen such as that shown in Fig. 6 on the store clerk display unit 310. When the operation mode is the face-to-face semi-self mode, the registration and settlement device 50 may display a small plan screen such as that shown in Fig. 6 on the store clerk display unit 510.

[0055] FIG. 7 is an example of a display on the settlement device 20. The settlement device 20 (for example, machine No. 3 or No. 4 in FIG. 5(A)) displays a start screen as shown in FIG. 7(A) on the customer side display unit 203 as a screen for accepting the start of settlement on the device. A start button BT20 is displayed on the start screen in FIG. 7(A). The start button BT20 is a button for proceeding to settlement on the device.

[0056] The settlement device 20 (for example, machine No. 3 or No. 4 in Figure 5(A)) displays a payment method selection screen (settlement method selection screen, payment method selection screen) such as that shown in Figure 7(B) on the customer side display unit 203 based on operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen of Figure 7(A).

[0057] Note that other devices may also display a start screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(A) or a payment method selection screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(B). For example, a registered settlement device 30 (e.g., device No. 5 in FIG. 5(A) when settling for a product registered in device No. 2 in FIG. 5(A)) may display a start screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(A) on the customer display unit 303. A registered settlement device 40 (a registered settlement device 40 when settling for a product registered in another device) may display a start screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(A) on the customer display unit 403. A registered settlement device 50 (a registered settlement device 50 when settling for a product registered in another device) may display a start screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(A) on the customer display unit 503.

[0058] The settlement device 20 (for example, machines 3 and 4 in FIG. 5(A)) displays a processing status screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(C) on the store clerk display unit 210. The processing status screen in FIG. 7(C) has a processing status area AR21 that displays the processing status of the first lane, and a processing status area AR22 that displays the processing status of the second lane. In the processing status area AR21, the processing status of machine 3 (the transaction number registered in machine 1 is "1234", the total number of items purchased is "5 items", and the total payment amount is "1250 yen") is displayed as the processing status of lane 1. The processing status area AR22 displays the processing status of the second lane, including the processing status at machine 4 (the transaction number registered at machine 2 is "1233," the total number of items purchased is "4 items," and the total payment amount is "1380 yen") and the processing status at machine 5 (the transaction number registered at machine 2 is "1235," the total number of items purchased is "3 items," and the total payment amount is "736 yen"). When the display area for each transaction is touched, the settlement device 20 displays detailed information for each transaction.

[0059] 7(C) also displays a Machine 3 Change etc. button BT27A, a Machine 4 Change etc. button BT27B, a Machine 5 Change etc. button BT27C, a lane display / hide button BT23, a lane display left / right switch button BT24, a history button BT25, and a close button BT29. The Machine 3 Change etc. button BT27A to the Machine 5 Change etc. button BT27C are buttons for checking the change etc. status of each device including the device itself (change tag near end, change tag near full, receipt paper near end, etc.). The lane display / hide button BT23 is a button for switching between displaying and hiding the processing status area AR21 and the processing status area AR22. In response to operation of the lane display / hide button BT23, the settlement device 20 switches between displaying both the processing status area AR21 and the processing status area AR22, enlarging the processing status area AR21 (hide the processing status area AR22), and enlarging the processing status area AR22 (hide the processing status area AR21). The lane display left / right switch button BT24 is a button for changing the display positions (left / right) of the processing status areas AR21 and AR22 when both the processing status areas AR21 and AR22 are displayed. In response to operation of the lane display left / right switch button BT24, the settlement device 20 switches the display positions of the processing status areas AR21 and AR22. The history button BT25 is a button for checking the processing history of each device (both lanes). The close button BT29 is a button for closing (hiding) the processing status screen. When the close button BT29 is operated, the settlement device 20 hides the processing status screen and displays a button on the clerk side display unit 210 to display the processing status screen again.

[0060] In addition, other devices may also display a processing status screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(C). For example, the registration and settlement device 30 (No. 5) may display a processing status screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(C) on the store clerk display unit 310. The registration and settlement device 40 (the registration and settlement device 40 when settling for products registered on another device) may display a processing status screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(C) on the store clerk display unit 410. The registration and settlement device 50 (the registration and settlement device 50 when settling for products registered on another device) may display a processing status screen such as that shown in FIG. 7(C) on the store clerk display unit 510.

[0061] Note that the processing status screen in Fig. 7(C) is shown larger than the start screen in Fig. 7(A) and the payment method selection screen in Fig. 7(B) for ease of explanation. In other words, the display size of the clerk-side display unit (clerk-side display unit 210, etc.) that displays the processing status screen in Fig. 7(C) may be smaller than the display size of the customer-side display unit (customer-side display unit 203, etc.) that displays the start screen in Fig. 7(A), etc.

[0062] Figure 8 shows examples of displays on the settlement device 20 and the registration device 10. The settlement device 20 (as well as the registration settlement device 30, the registration settlement device 40, and the registration settlement device 50) may display (pop-up display) a small screen SG10 as shown in Figure 8(A) or a small screen SG20 as shown in Figure 8(B) on the clerk side display unit 210 in front of another screen (for example, the processing status screen in Figure 7(C)).

[0063] The small screen SG10 in Figure 8(A) displays the Yes button BT40, the Machine No. 3 status button, the Machine No. 4 status button, and the Machine No. 5 status button, which are operated when settling the payment for Machine No. 1 (total purchase items: "2 items", total payment amount: "￥1080") at the device in question (Machine No. 4).

[0064] The small screen SG20 in Figure 8 (B) displays the Yes button BT50, the Machine No. 3 status button, the Machine No. 4 status button, and the Machine No. 5 status button, which are operated when settling the amount for Machine No. 1 (total number of purchases: "2 items", total payment amount: "￥1080") at another device (Machine No. 4).

[0065] The registration settlement device 30 (similar to the registration settlement device 40 and the registration settlement device 50) may display a small screen SG30 such as that shown in Figure 8(C) in front of another screen (for example, the small screen in Figure 6) on the store clerk side display unit 310.

[0066] The small screen SG30 in Fig. 8(C) displays a device settlement button BT61 to be operated when settling at the device in question (device No. 2) (total number of purchases: "2 items", total payment amount: "1080 yen"), a device settlement button BT62 to be operated when settling at another device, a device No. 2 status button, a device No. 5 status button, and a device No. 4 status button for the device in question (device No. 2) (total number of purchases: "2 items", total payment amount: "1080 yen"). The small screen SG30 may also display a device No. 3 status button. The small screens in Figs. 8(D) to 8(H) will be described later.

[0067] Example 1 In Example 1, the following operations are described: in the first lane (machines 1, 3, and 4), registration data is sent from machine 1 to machine 3 (payment settlement device 20) based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 110 of machine 1 (registration device 10), and then payment is settled at machine 3 based on the customer's operation on the customer-side display unit 203 of machine 3; and registration data is sent from machine 1 to machine 3 based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 110 of machine 1, and then registration data is sent from machine 3 to machine 4 based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 210 of machine 4 (payment settlement device 20), and payment is settled at machine 4.

[0068] 9 and 10 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operation of each device in Example 1. Fig. 9 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 3. Fig. 10 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 4.

[0069] In the sequence diagram of Figure 9, the left column shows the operation of Unit 1, the middle column shows the operation of Unit 3, and the right column shows the operation of Unit 4. The same applies to the sequence diagrams of Figures 10, 12 to 15, 17, and 18.

[0070] At the start of the sequence diagram of Fig. 9, it is assumed that machine No. 1 is displaying the small print screen of Fig. 6 on the clerk display unit 110. At the start of the sequence diagram of Fig. 9, it is assumed that machines No. 3 and No. 4 are displaying a standby screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 203 and a processing status screen (Fig. 7(C)) on the clerk display unit 210. The same applies to the sequence diagrams of Figs. 10, 12 to 15, 17, and 18.

[0071] (Sequence diagram in Figure 9) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the sub-screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 110. Having accepted the operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout, the first machine transmits the registration data to the third machine.

[0072] Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 3 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the standby screen (not shown). Furthermore, upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 3 sends a transaction completion notification (notification that a transaction to be settled) to machine No. 4. The transaction completion notification may include the device number of the device that registered the product, the total number of items purchased, and the total payment amount. Upon receiving the transaction completion notification, machine No. 4 displays a small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk display unit 210.

[0073] Step S123: The third machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the third machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0074] Machine No. 3, which has accepted the customer's operation to start settlement, sends a notification of the processing device selection (notification that the processing device for the transaction has been selected) to Machine No. 4. Upon receiving the notification of the processing device selection, Machine No. 4 erases the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk side display unit 210.

[0075] Step S126: Furthermore, upon receiving an operation from the customer to start settlement, the third machine starts the settlement process by the customer. Specifically, the third machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203. Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the third machine based on the customer's operation.

[0076] (Sequence diagram in Figure 10) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the sub-screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 110. Having accepted the operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout, the first machine transmits the registration data to the third machine.

[0077] Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 3 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the standby screen (not shown). Furthermore, machine No. 3, upon receiving the registration data, sends a notification of transaction completion to machine No. 4. Upon receiving the notification of transaction completion, machine No. 4 displays small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) on the clerk display unit 210 in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)).

[0078] Step S132: Machine No. 4 accepts an operation by the store clerk to use Machine No. 4. For example, Machine No. 4 accepts an operation of the Yes button BT40 on the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) on the store clerk's display unit 210.

[0079] Upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 erases the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 transmits a notification of the selection of a processing device to machine No. 3. Upon receiving the notification of the selection of a processing device, machine No. 3 displays a standby screen in place of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer-side display unit 203. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 requests registration data from machine No. 3. Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 3 transmits the registration data to machine No. 4. Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 4 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) in place of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer-side display unit 203.

[0080] In addition, when machine No. 4 receives an operation from the store clerk to use machine No. 4, it may send a notification of the processing device selection and a request for registration data together to machine No. 3.

[0081] Step S135: The No. 4 machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the No. 4 machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0082] Step S136: Having received the customer's operation to start settlement, the fourth machine starts the customer's settlement process. Specifically, the fourth machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the fourth machine based on the customer's operation.

[0083] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the No. 4 machine (payment adjustment device 20) in the first and second embodiments (described later).

[0084] (Flowchart in Figure 11) Step S1: Machine No. 4 receives a notification that a transaction has been made, and then proceeds to step S3. Step S3: The No. 4 machine displays the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Then, the process proceeds to step S4.

[0085] Step S4: Machine No. 4 determines whether or not it has received a notification of the processing device selection from Machine No. 3. If it has received the notification of the processing device selection (Step S4: YES), it proceeds to Step S6. If it has not received the notification of the processing device selection (Step S4: NO), it proceeds to Step S5.

[0086] Step S5: Machine No. 4 determines whether or not it has accepted an operation by the store clerk to use Machine No. 4 (operation of the Yes button BT40). If the operation has been accepted (Step S5: YES), it proceeds to Step S9. If the operation has not been accepted (Step S5: NO), it returns to Step S4.

[0087] Step S6: The No. 4 machine erases the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Then, the processing ends.

[0088] Step S9: The No. 4 machine erases the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Then, the process proceeds to step S10. Step S10: Machine No. 4 transmits a notification of the processing device selection to Machine No. 3. Then, the process proceeds to step S11. Step S11: Device No. 4 requests and receives registration data, and then proceeds to step S12. Step S12: Machine No. 4 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer-side display unit 203. Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

[0089] Step S14: Machine No. 4 determines whether or not it has accepted an operation by the customer to start payment (operation of the start button BT20). If it has accepted the operation (Step S14: YES), it proceeds to Step S18. If it has not accepted the operation (Step S14: NO), it returns to Step S14. Step S18: Machine No. 4 starts the payment process by the customer. Specifically, Machine No. 4 displays the payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203. Thereafter, the payment is settled based on the customer's operation, and the process ends.

[0090] Example 2 In Example 2, the following operations are described: in the first lane, registration data is made available for transmission (waiting for a request) based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 110 of machine No. 1 (registration device 10), and then the registration data is sent from machine No. 1 to machine No. 3 based on the operation of the customer on the customer-side display unit 203 of machine No. 3 (payment device 20), and the payment is settled at machine No. 3; and registration data is made available for transmission based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 110 of machine No. 1, and then the registration data is sent from machine No. 1 to machine No. 4 based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 210 of machine No. 4 (payment device 20), and the payment is settled at machine No. 4.

[0091] 12 and 13 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operation of each device in Example 2. Fig. 12 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 3. Fig. 13 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 4.

[0092] (Sequence diagram in Figure 12) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the store clerk to proceed to settlement. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the small plan screen (FIG. 6) on the store clerk side display unit 110.

[0093] Step S111: Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, stores the registration data so that it can be transmitted. Also, Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, sends a notification that the transaction has been completed to Machine No. 3. Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the start screen (Figure 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer side display unit 203. Also, Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, sends a notification that the transaction has been completed to Machine No. 4. Machine No. 4, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the small screen SG10 (Figure 8(A)) in front of the processing status screen (Figure 7(C)) on the clerk side display unit 210.

[0094] Although it has been explained that machine 1 sends a notification of a transaction to machine 3, and machine 3 sends a notification of a transaction to machine 4, machine 1 may also send a notification of a transaction to each of machine 3 and machine 4.

[0095] Step S123: The third machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the third machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0096] Machine No. 3, which has received an operation from the customer to start settlement, sends a notification of the selection of a processing device to Machine No. 4. Machine No. 4, which has received the notification of the selection of a processing device, erases the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk side display unit 210. Machine No. 3, which has received an operation from the customer to start settlement, requests registration data from Machine No. 1. Machine No. 1, which has received the registration data request, sends the registration data to Machine No. 3.

[0097] Step S126: Having received the registration data, the third machine starts the payment process with the customer. Specifically, the third machine displays the payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Thereafter, the payment is settled in the third machine based on the customer's operations.

[0098] (Sequence diagram in Figure 13) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the store clerk to proceed to settlement. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the small plan screen (FIG. 6) on the store clerk side display unit 110.

[0099] Step S111: Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, stores the registration data so that it can be transmitted. Also, Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, sends a notification that the transaction has been completed to Machine No. 3. Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the start screen (Figure 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer side display unit 203. Also, Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, sends a notification that the transaction has been completed to Machine No. 4. Machine No. 4, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the small screen SG10 (Figure 8(A)) in front of the processing status screen (Figure 7(C)) on the clerk side display unit 210.

[0100] Although it has been explained that machine 1 sends a notification of a transaction to machine 3, and machine 3 sends a notification of a transaction to machine 4, machine 1 may also send a notification of a transaction to each of machine 3 and machine 4.

[0101] Step S132: Machine No. 4 accepts an operation by the store clerk to use Machine No. 4. For example, Machine No. 4 accepts an operation of the Yes button BT40 on the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) on the store clerk's display unit 210.

[0102] Upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 erases the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 sends a notification of the selection of a processing device to machine No. 3. Upon receiving the notification of the selection of a processing device, machine No. 3 displays a standby screen in place of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer-side display unit 203. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 requests registration data from machine No. 1. Machine No. 1, which has been requested to provide the registration data, transmits the registration data to machine No. 4. Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 4 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) in place of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer-side display unit 203.

[0103] Step S135: The No. 4 machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the No. 4 machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0104] Step S136: Having received the customer's operation to start settlement, the fourth machine starts the customer's settlement process. Specifically, the fourth machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the fourth machine based on the customer's operation.

[0105] Example 3 As Example 3, the following operations are explained: in the first lane, registration data is sent from machine No. 1 to machine No. 3 (payment settlement device 20) based on the clerk's operation on the clerk's display unit 110 of machine No. 1 (registration device 10), and then the payment is settled at machine No. 3 based on the customer's operation on the customer's display unit 203 of machine No. 3; and registration data is sent from machine No. 1 to machine No. 3 based on the clerk's operation on the clerk's display unit 110 of machine No. 1, and then registration data is sent from machine No. 3 to machine No. 4 based on the clerk's operation on the clerk's display unit 210 of machine No. 3, and then the payment is settled at machine No. 4.

[0106] 14 and 15 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operation of each device in Example 3. Fig. 14 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 3. Fig. 15 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 4.

[0107] (Sequence diagram in Figure 14) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the sub-screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 110. Having accepted the operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout, the first machine transmits the registration data to the third machine.

[0108] Upon receiving the registration data, the third machine displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 203. Furthermore, upon receiving the registration data, the third machine displays the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) on the clerk display unit 210 in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)).

[0109] Step S143: The third machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the third machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0110] When the third machine receives an operation from the customer to start settlement, it erases the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the store clerk display unit 210.

[0111] Step S146: Furthermore, upon receiving an operation from the customer to start settlement, the third machine starts the settlement process by the customer. Specifically, the third machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203. Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the third machine based on the customer's operation.

[0112] (Sequence diagram in Figure 15) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the sub-screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 110. Having accepted the operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout, the first machine transmits the registration data to the third machine.

[0113] Upon receiving the registration data, the third machine displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 203. Furthermore, upon receiving the registration data, the third machine displays the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) on the clerk display unit 210 in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)).

[0114] Step S152: Machine No. 3 accepts an operation by the store clerk to use Machine No. 4. For example, Machine No. 3 accepts an operation of the Yes button BT50 on the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) on the store clerk's display unit 210.

[0115] Upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 3 erases the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 3 displays a standby screen on the customer-side display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 3 transmits registration data to machine No. 4. Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 4 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer-side display unit 203 instead of the standby screen (not shown).

[0116] Step S155: The No. 4 machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the No. 4 machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0117] Step S156: Having received the customer's operation to start settlement, the fourth machine starts the customer's settlement process. Specifically, the fourth machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the fourth machine based on the customer's operation.

[0118] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the third machine (account adjustment device 20) of the third embodiment.

[0119] (Flowchart in Figure 16) Step S21: The third device receives the registration data, and then the process proceeds to step S22. Step S22: Machine No. 3 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer-side display unit 203. Then, the process proceeds to step S23. Step S23: The third machine displays the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the store clerk side display unit 210. Then, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0120] Step S24: Machine No. 3 determines whether or not it has accepted an operation by the customer to start payment (operation of the start button BT20). If the operation has been accepted (Step S24: YES), it proceeds to Step S26. If the operation has not been accepted (Step S24: NO), it proceeds to Step S25.

[0121] Step S25: Machine No. 3 determines whether or not it has accepted an operation by the store clerk to use Machine No. 4 (operation of the Yes button BT50). If the operation has been accepted (Step S25: YES), it proceeds to Step S29. If the operation has not been accepted (Step S25: NO), it returns to Step S24.

[0122] Step S26: Machine No. 3 erases the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the store clerk's display unit 210. Then, the process proceeds to step S28. Step S28: Machine No. 3 starts the payment process by the customer. Specifically, Machine No. 3 displays the payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203. Thereafter, the payment is settled based on the customer's operation, and the process ends.

[0123] Step S29: The third machine erases the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the store clerk side display unit 210. Then, the process proceeds to step S30. Step S30: Machine No. 3 displays a standby screen instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer-side display unit 203. Then, the process proceeds to step S31. Step S31: Device No. 3 transmits the registration data to Device No. 4, and then ends the process.

[0124] Example 4 In Example 4, the following operations are described: in the first lane, registration data is made available for transmission (waiting for a request) based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 110 of machine No. 1 (registration device 10), and then the registration data is sent from machine No. 1 to machine No. 3 based on the operation of the customer on the customer-side display unit 203 of machine No. 3 (payment settlement device 20), and the payment is settled at machine No. 3; and registration data is made available for transmission based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 110 of machine No. 1, and then the registration data is sent from machine No. 1 to machine No. 4 based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 210 of machine No. 3, and the payment is settled at machine No. 4.

[0125] 17 and 18 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operation of each device in Example 4. Fig. 17 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 3. Fig. 18 shows the flow when settlement starts at machine No. 4.

[0126] (Sequence diagram in Figure 17) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the store clerk to proceed to settlement. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the small plan screen (FIG. 6) on the store clerk side display unit 110.

[0127] Step S111: Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, stores the registration data so that it can be transmitted. Also, Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, sends a notification that the transaction has been completed to Machine No. 3. Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the start screen (Figure 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 203. Also, Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the small screen SG20 (Figure 8(B)) in front of the processing status screen (Figure 7(C)) on the clerk display unit 210.

[0128] Step S143: The third machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the third machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0129] Upon receiving an operation from the customer to start settlement, Machine No. 3 erases the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the store clerk display unit 210. Furthermore, upon receiving an operation from the customer to start settlement, Machine No. 3 requests registration data from Machine No. 1. Machine No. 1, which has received the request for registration data, sends the registration data to Machine No. 3.

[0130] Step S146: Having received the registration data, the third machine starts the payment process with the customer. Specifically, the third machine displays the payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Thereafter, the third machine performs payment based on the customer's operations.

[0131] (Sequence diagram in Figure 18) Step S110: The first machine accepts an operation by the store clerk to proceed to settlement. For example, the first machine accepts an operation of the complete button BT10 on the small plan screen (FIG. 6) on the store clerk side display unit 110.

[0132] Step S111: Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, stores the registration data so that it can be transmitted. Also, Machine No. 1, which has received an operation from the clerk to proceed to settlement, sends a notification that the transaction has been completed to Machine No. 3. Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the start screen (Figure 7(A)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 203. Also, Machine No. 3, which has received the notification that the transaction has been completed, displays the small screen SG20 (Figure 8(B)) in front of the processing status screen (Figure 7(C)) on the clerk display unit 210.

[0133] Step S152: Machine No. 3 accepts an operation by the store clerk to use Machine No. 4. For example, Machine No. 3 accepts an operation of the Yes button BT50 on the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) on the store clerk's display unit 210.

[0134] Upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 3 erases the small screen SG20 (FIG. 8(B)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 3 displays a standby screen on the customer-side display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 3 transmits instruction information to machine No. 1 instructing it to transmit registration data to machine No. 4. Having received the instruction information, machine No. 1 transmits the registration data to machine No. 4. Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 4 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer-side display unit 203 instead of the standby screen (not shown).

[0135] Step S155: The No. 4 machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the No. 4 machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0136] Step S156: Having received the customer's operation to start settlement, the fourth machine starts the customer's settlement process. Specifically, the fourth machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the fourth machine based on the customer's operation.

[0137] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of machine No. 3 (adjustment device 20) of Example 4. Steps S42, S43, S44, S45, S46, S48, S49, and S50 in Figure 19 are similar to steps S22, S23, S24, S25, S26, S28, S29, and S30 in Figure 16, and therefore will not be described.

[0138] (Flowchart in Figure 19) Step S41: Machine No. 3 receives a notification that a transaction has been made. Step S47: Device No. 3 requests and receives the registration data, and then proceeds to step S48. Step S51: The third machine transmits instruction information to the first machine to instruct the first machine to transmit registration data to the fourth machine.

[0139] Example 5 As a fifth embodiment, in the second lane (machines 2, 5, and 4), the operation of settling at machine 2 (registered settlement device 30) based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 310 of machine 2, and the operation of settling at another device (machine 5 or 4) based on the operation of the clerk on the clerk-side display unit 310 of machine 2 will be described.

[0140] 20 to 22 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operation of each device in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 20 shows the flow when settling at machine No. 2. FIG. 21 shows the flow when settling at another device (machine No. 5 or No. 4). FIG. 22 is a continuation of FIG. 21.

[0141] In the sequence diagram of Fig. 20, the left column shows the operation of Unit 2, the middle column shows the operation of Unit 5, and the right column shows the operation of Unit 4. The same applies to the sequence diagrams of Figs. 21 and 22.

[0142] At the start of the sequence diagram in Figure 20, it is assumed that machine No. 2 is displaying the subtotal screen of Figure 6 on the clerk display unit 310 and a subtotal confirmation screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 303. At the start of the sequence diagram in Figure 20, it is assumed that machine No. 5 is displaying a standby screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 303 and a processing status screen (Figure 7(C)) on the clerk display unit 310. At the start of the sequence diagram in Figure 20, it is assumed that machine No. 4 is displaying a standby screen (not shown) on the customer display unit 203 and a processing status screen (Figure 7(C)) on the clerk display unit 210. The same applies to the sequence diagram in Figure 21.

[0143] (Sequence diagram in Figure 20) Step S200: The second machine accepts an operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout. For example, the second machine accepts an operation of the Complete button BT10 on the small print screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Having accepted the operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout, the second machine displays the small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210 in front of the small print screen (FIG. 6).

[0144] Step S201: Machine No. 2 accepts an operation by the clerk to use Machine No. 2. For example, Machine No. 2 accepts an operation of the device settlement button BT61 on the small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Machine No. 2, which has accepted an operation by the clerk to use Machine No. 2, erases the small screen SG30 displayed in front of the small screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Machine No. 2 may erase the small screen SG30 and display a registration screen (not shown).

[0145] Step S206: Having received the clerk's operation to use the second machine, the second machine begins the settlement process with the customer. Specifically, the second machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer display unit 303 instead of a subtotal confirmation screen (not shown). Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the second machine based on the customer's operation. Note that the second machine may also display a start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer display unit 303 instead of a subtotal confirmation screen (not shown).

[0146] (Sequence diagram in Figure 21) Step S200: The second machine accepts an operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout. For example, the second machine accepts an operation of the Complete button BT10 on the small print screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Having accepted the operation by the clerk to proceed to checkout, the second machine displays the small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210 in front of the small print screen (FIG. 6).

[0147] Step S202: Machine No. 2 accepts an operation by the store clerk to use another machine. For example, Machine No. 2 accepts an operation of the other machine settlement button BT62 on the small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) on the store clerk side display unit 310.

[0148] Step S202 and subsequent steps are the same as step S110 and subsequent steps in FIGS. 9, 10, 12 to 15, 17, and 18.

[0149] (Sequence diagram in Figure 22) FIG. 22 shows a case where the flow of FIG. 10 starts from step S202 in FIG. 21. In step S202 in FIG. 22, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use another machine, machine No. 2 erases small screen SG30 displayed in front of the small screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Machine No. 2 may erase small screen SG30 and display a registration screen (not shown). Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use another machine, machine No. 2 transmits registration data to machine No. 5.

[0150] Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 5 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer display unit 303 instead of the standby screen (not shown). Furthermore, machine No. 5, upon receiving the registration data, sends a notification of transaction completion to machine No. 4. Upon receiving the notification of transaction completion, machine No. 4 displays small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) on the clerk display unit 210 in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)).

[0151] Step S232: Machine No. 4 accepts an operation by the store clerk to use Machine No. 4. For example, Machine No. 4 accepts an operation of the Yes button BT40 on the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) on the store clerk's display unit 210.

[0152] Upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 erases the small screen SG10 (FIG. 8(A)) displayed in front of the processing status screen (FIG. 7(C)) on the clerk-side display unit 210. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 sends a notification of the selection of a processing device to machine No. 5. Upon receiving the notification of the selection of a processing device, machine No. 5 displays a standby screen in place of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer-side display unit 303. Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the clerk to use machine No. 4, machine No. 4 requests registration data from machine No. 5. Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 5 sends the registration data to machine No. 4. Upon receiving the registration data, machine No. 4 displays the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) in place of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer-side display unit 203.

[0153] In addition, when machine No. 4 receives an operation from the store clerk to use machine No. 4, it may send a notification of the processing device selection and a request for registration data together to machine No. 5.

[0154] Step S235: The No. 4 machine accepts an operation by the customer to start settlement. For example, the No. 4 machine accepts an operation of the start button BT20 on the start screen (FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 203.

[0155] Step S236: Having received the customer's operation to start settlement, the fourth machine starts the customer's settlement process. Specifically, the fourth machine displays a payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) on the customer side display unit 203 instead of the start screen (FIG. 7(A)). Thereafter, settlement is carried out in the fourth machine based on the customer's operation.

[0156] FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second machine (registered settlement device 30) of the fifth embodiment.

[0157] (Flowchart in Figure 23) Step S61: Machine No. 2 determines whether or not it has received an operation from the store clerk to proceed to payment (operation of the Complete button BT10). If the operation has been received (Step S61: YES), it proceeds to Step S63. If the operation has not been received (Step S61: NO), it returns to Step S61. Step S63: The second machine displays the small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) in front of the small screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Then, the process proceeds to step S64.

[0158] Step S64: Machine No. 2 determines whether or not it has accepted an operation by a store clerk to use the machine (operation of the machine settlement button BT61). If the operation has been accepted (step S64: YES), it proceeds to step S66. If the operation has not been accepted (step S64: NO), it returns to step S65.

[0159] Step S65: Machine No. 2 determines whether it has accepted an operation by the store clerk to use another device (operation of the other device settlement button BT62). If the operation has been accepted (step S65: YES), it proceeds to step S69. If the operation has not been accepted (step S65: NO), it returns to step S64.

[0160] Step S66: The second machine erases the small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) displayed in front of the small screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Then, the process proceeds to step S68. Step S68: Machine No. 2 starts the payment process by the customer. Specifically, Machine No. 2 displays the payment method selection screen (FIG. 7(B)) instead of the standby screen (not shown) on the customer side display unit 403. Thereafter, the payment is settled based on the customer's operation, and the process ends.

[0161] Step S69: The second machine erases the small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) displayed in front of the small screen (FIG. 6) on the clerk-side display unit 310. Then, the process proceeds to step S70. Step S70: The second device transmits the registration data (or a transaction notification) to the other device, and then ends the process.

[0162] (Multiple settlement items exist at the same time) Machine No. 4 (account settlement device 20) belongs to both the first lane and the second lane. Therefore, machine No. 4 may simultaneously be subject to settlement for both a product registered at machine No. 1 (registration device 10) in the first lane and a product registered at machine No. 2 (registration settlement device 30) in the second lane. In other words, there may be multiple items subject to settlement at the same time.

[0163] When a product registered at machine No. 1 in the first lane and a product registered at machine No. 2 in the second lane are to be settled at the same time, machine No. 4 displays a small screen SG11 such as that shown in Figure 8(D) on the store clerk's display unit 210.

[0164] The small screen SG11 in Figure 8 (D) displays the Machine 1 settlement button BT41, which is operated when settling Machine 1 (total purchase points "2 items", total payment amount "￥1080") at the device in question (Machine 4), the Machine 2 settlement button BT42, which is operated when settling Machine 2 (total purchase points "3 items", total payment amount "￥1234") at the device in question (Machine 4), the Machine 3 status button, the Machine 4 status button, and the Machine 5 status button.

[0165] If only the number 1 unit is available, the number 4 unit may display a small screen SG11 on the clerk side display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 8(E) instead of the small screen SG10 in Fig. 8(A). On the small screen SG11 in Fig. 8(E), since there is no number 2 unit, the settlement button BT42 for the number 2 unit is displayed in an inoperable state (indicated by a dashed line in the figure).

[0166] (Select other devices to settle from multiple devices) In addition to settlement at No. 4 (adjustment device 20) in the first lane, settlement at No. 5 (registered settlement device 30) in the second lane may be selectable at No. 3 (adjustment device 20) in the first lane. In other words, it may be possible to select from multiple devices other than No. 4 (adjustment device 20) in the first lane as the settlement device.

[0167] For example, the third machine may display a small screen SG21 on the store clerk side display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 8(F) instead of the small screen SG20 of FIG. 8(B).

[0168] The small screen SG21 in Figure 8 (F) displays the Machine 4 settlement button BT54, which is operated when settling at Machine 4, the Machine 5 settlement button BT55, which is operated when settling at Machine 5, the Machine 3 status button, the Machine 4 status button, and the Machine 5 status button for Machine 1 (total number of purchases: "2 items", total payment amount: "￥1080").

[0169] When machine No. 5 is unavailable (for example, during maintenance), machine No. 3 may display a small screen SG21 as shown in Fig. 8(G) on the store clerk display unit 210 instead of the small screen SG21 of Fig. 8(F). On the small screen SG21 of Fig. 8(G), since machine No. 5 is unavailable, the settlement button BT55 of machine No. 5 is displayed in an inoperable state.

[0170] (Other layouts) In the layout of Figure 5(A), an example has been described in which machine No. 1 is the registration device 10, machine No. 2 is the registration and settlement device 30, machine No. 3 is the settlement device 20, machine No. 4 is the settlement device 20, and machine No. 5 is the registration and settlement device 30, but the layout is not limited to this. For example, each lane may be configured as shown in Figure 5(B).

[0171] In Figure 5(B), machine No. 1, the most upstream machine in the first lane, machine No. 2, the most upstream machine in the second lane, machine No. 3 in the first lane, machine No. 5 in the second lane, and machine No. 4, the most downstream machine in the first lane (and second lane), are all registered settlement devices 50.

[0172] The basic checkout flow in lane 1 is for the clerk to register at machine 1, and for the customer to pay at machine 1, 3, or 4. In addition, since registration at machine 3 or 4 is also possible in lane 1, depending on the situation, the clerk can register at machine 3 or 4, and the customer can pay at that machine or another machine. In addition, each machine (machine 1, 3, and 4) can be changed to full self-service mode and used as a full self-service machine. The same applies to lane 2.

[0173] Furthermore, the arrangement and layout of the devices are not limited to those shown in Figures 5(A) and 5(B). For example, the registered settlement device 40 (full-self device) may be arranged as device No. 3 to No. 5 (as described above, the registered settlement device 40 is also capable of settlement processing based on registration data received from other devices). For example, the registered settlement device 40 may be arranged as device No. 1 or No. 2 (as described above, the registered settlement device 40 is capable of transmitting registration data to other devices). Furthermore, the registered settlement device 30 (face-to-face semi-self device) may be arranged as device No. 3 to No. 5 (as described above, the registered settlement device 30 is also capable of settlement processing based on registration data received from other devices).

[0174] The above describes the embodiment, but according to the embodiment, various checkout operations can be suitably realized. In other words, although there are various requests for checkout operations from store to store, each request can be flexibly met.

[0175] (Variations, etc.) Although the embodiments have been described above, the device configuration, data configuration, processing flow, display and output modes, etc. can be appropriately changed as shown in the following (1) to (14). In addition, the following (1) to (14) can be appropriately combined.

[0176] (1) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which an operation to proceed to settlement (operation of the Complete button BT10) was accepted from the subtotal screen (FIG. 6), but an operation to proceed to settlement may also be accepted from the registration screen (not shown). In other words, the Complete button BT10 may be provided on the registration screen (not shown). In other words, the operation of the subtotal button on the registration screen may be an operation to proceed to settlement.

[0177] (2) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the second machine displays a small screen SG30 (FIG. 8(C)) on which the Settlement for That Device button BT61 and the Settlement for Other Devices button BT62 are arranged on the front of the small screen (FIG. 6) based on the operation of the Complete button BT10 on the small screen. However, the second machine may display a small screen on which the Settlement for That Device button BT61 and the Settlement for Other Devices button BT62 are arranged instead of the Complete button BT10. In other words, in the case of a device that can be settled on its own device, the small screen may accept an operation to select whether to settle on its own device or on another device.

[0178] (3) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which information (registration data, etc.) was transmitted and received between each machine, but information may be transmitted and received via another device (for example, store controller 80). As an example, in FIG. 10, machine 1 may transmit registration data to machine 3 via store controller 80, and machine 3 may transmit registration data to machine 4 via store controller 80.

[0179] (4) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which registration data was sent to a device required for settlement, but registration data may be sent in advance to all devices that may be used for settlement, and devices other than the device that will be used for settlement may discard (delete) the registration data. For example, a device that will be responsible for settlement may send a notification of processing decision to other devices, and the other devices that receive the notification of processing decision may discard the registration data.

[0180] (5) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the No. 3 unit in the first lane was installed parallel to the No. 4 unit, but the No. 3 unit may be installed parallel to the No. 1 unit. The same applies to the No. 5 unit in the second lane.

[0181] (6) In the above embodiment, an example in which the first lane is installed in an L-shape (an example in which a curved customer flow line A is used) has been described, but the first lane may also be installed in an I-shape (a configuration in which a straight customer flow line A is used). The same applies to the second lane.

[0182] (7) In the above embodiment, an example in which the first lane and the second lane are configured with five devices has been described, but the first lane and the second lane may be configured with six or more devices. For example, in FIG. 5(A), a sixth machine (e.g., settlement device 20) may be installed between the fourth and fifth machines.

[0183] (8) In the above embodiment, a layout combining an L-shaped first lane and an inverted L-shaped second lane was described, but a layout combining an L-shaped first lane and an L-shaped second lane, or a layout combining an inverted L-shaped first lane and an inverted L-shaped second lane, is also possible. In other words, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the clerk at the first machine in the first lane and the clerk at the second machine in the second lane register products while facing opposite directions (registering products back to back), but they may also register products while facing the same direction.

[0184] (9) In the above embodiment, an example in which the devices are installed in close proximity to each other has been described, but at least some of the devices may be installed in locations distant from the other devices. For example, in Figure 5(A), devices 1 and 3 may be installed in close proximity to each other, devices 2 and 5 may be installed in close proximity to each other, and device 4 may be installed in a location distant from devices 1 and 3 or devices 2 and 5.

[0185] (10) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which various small screens shown in Fig. 8 were displayed in front of the processing status screen, but small screens may also be displayed in front of other screens (for example, a flyer screen for today's special sale items, a map screen for the neighborhood, etc.). Also, small screens may be displayed in front of a screen that does not display any particular information (for example, a plain background image or a landscape background image).

[0186] (11) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the device for settlement was specified (selected) by operating (touching) on ​​the screen (small screen), but the device for settlement may also be specified by operating various keys (buttons) provided on the device.

[0187] Alternatively, a scanner may be installed on the back of each device (near the clerk display) and a specific code (e.g., an employee barcode) may be read to specify the device to be used for payment. For example, if a specific code is read by a scanner on the back of machine X, machine X may be determined to be the device to be used for payment.

[0188] The device at which the payment will be made may be determined automatically, rather than being specified (selected) by the store clerk. For example, the device at which the payment will be made may be determined based on sensing results (e.g., detection results from one or more human sensors that can detect that the store clerk has moved near each device). As an example, in the first lane of FIG. 5(A), if the store clerk has moved close to machine No. 4, machine No. 4 may be determined as the device at which the payment will be made, and if the store clerk has not moved close to machine No. 4, machine No. 3 may be determined as the device at which the payment will be made. In the second lane of FIG. 5(A), if the store clerk has moved close to machine No. 4, machine No. 4 may be determined as the device at which the payment will be made, and if the store clerk has not moved close to machine No. 4, machine No. 5 may be determined as the device at which the payment will be made.

[0189] (12) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the settlement device was designated (selected) at the settlement or registration device (machines 1 to 5). However, the settlement device may also be designated at a device that does not perform settlement or registration. For example, a sorting device 90 (not shown; for example, a tablet terminal operated by a store clerk) that can be connected to LAN 19 may be installed near machine 1 or 2, and the settlement device may be designated (selected) at sorting device 90. The sorting device 90 may display the processing status screen of FIG. 7(C).

[0190] The sorting device 90 installed near the first machine may display a small screen SG40 as shown in FIG. 8(H) in front of the processing status screen after the completion button BT10 of the first machine is operated.

[0191] 8(H) displays, for machine 1, a machine 3 settlement button BT73 to be operated when settling at machine 3, a machine 4 settlement button BT74 to be operated when settling at machine 4, a machine 3 status button, a machine 4 status button, and a machine 5 status button. Note that a machine 5 settlement button BT75 to be operated when settling at machine 5 may also be provided on small screen SG40.

[0192] The sorting device 90 installed near the No. 2 machine may display the small screen SG30 of Fig. 8(C) on the front of the processing status screen after the completion button BT10 of the No. 2 machine is operated. Note that the device settlement button BT61 on the small screen SG30 displayed by the sorting device 90 installed near the No. 2 machine is, so to speak, the No. 2 machine settlement button.

[0193] The sorting device 90 may be installed near machines 3 to 5. Alternatively, the sorting device 90 may not be installed and may be carried by a store clerk.

[0194] (13) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the settlement device 20 was equipped with both the payment terminal 205 and the change dispenser 206 ( FIG. 3 ), but the settlement device 20 may also be equipped with either the payment terminal 205 or the change dispenser 206. A settlement device 20 equipped with both the payment terminal 205 and the change dispenser 206 and a settlement device 20 equipped with either the payment terminal 205 or the change dispenser 206 may be mixed. The same applies to the registered settlement device 30, registered settlement device 40, registered settlement device 50, and settlement device 21.

[0195] (14) Some or all of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of each device (e.g., registration settlement device 30, registration settlement device 40, registration settlement device 50, settlement device 21, distribution device 90, transaction status management device 70, etc.) may be realized by a device other than the device described as the entity that executes the function. For example, each device may function as a so-called thin client specialized for input / output interfaces, etc. As an example, a cloud server (not shown) may execute a program for controlling the operation of each device, and each device may display a screen using a browsing function, etc.

[0196] When each device operates as a thin client or when each device uses a browser, some or all of the functions of each device are realized by a program executed on the server (e.g., a cloud server). The program executed on the server causes a computer to function as a server that controls each device. Each device (display unit, scanner unit, change dispenser, payment terminal, light-emitting unit, etc.) may be directly controlled by the server based on control information that is the result of control by the server, or may be indirectly controlled by the control unit of each device based on the control information.

[0197] <Summary of the embodiment> [Technical field] The present invention relates to a sales data processing system, a payment device, and a program. [Background technology] A known system used for checkout includes a registration device and a settlement device that can settle payments using product registration information transmitted from the registration device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-203554 A [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, further improvements are expected in systems used for checkout. The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide technology that can suitably realize various checkout operations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0198] (1) One aspect for solving the above-mentioned problem is a sales data processing system (e.g., sales system 1) including a first device (e.g., machine 1 in the first lane, machine 2 in the second lane) that registers products based on the registration operation of a store clerk; a second device (e.g., machine 3 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 1, machine 5 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 2) for the products registered in the first device based on the customer's payment operation; and a third device (e.g., machine 4 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 1, machine 4 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 2) for the products registered in the first device based on the customer's payment operation, wherein the third device is a sales data processing system characterized in that the customer's payment operation is possible based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk on the third device (e.g., operation of the store clerk-side display unit of machine 4). The configuration (1) allows various checkout operations to be suitably realized. In other words, it is convenient because the customer can perform payment operations at the third device based on the predetermined operations of the store clerk at the third device.

[0199] (2) The third device is a sales data processing system as described in (1) above, characterized in that it is equipped with a display unit for a store clerk (e.g., a store clerk-side display unit) that can display a processing status screen showing the processing status of the settlement (e.g., the processing status screen of Figure 7(C)), and the customer can perform the settlement operation based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk on the display unit (e.g., operation of the Yes button BT40 on the small screen SG10 of Figure 8(A)). The configuration (2) allows various checkout operations to be suitably realized. In other words, it is convenient because the customer can easily perform the checkout operation at the third device by operating the display unit for the store clerk of the third device.

[0200] (3) One aspect for solving the above-mentioned problem is a sales data processing system (e.g., sales system 1) including a first device (e.g., machine 1 in the first lane, machine 2 in the second lane) that registers products based on the registration operation of a store clerk, a second device (e.g., machine 3 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 1, machine 5 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 2) for the products registered in the first device based on the customer's payment operation, and a third device (e.g., machine 4 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 1, machine 4 that settles the payment using the registration data registered in machine 2) for the products registered in the first device based on the customer's payment operation, wherein the third device is a sales data processing system characterized in that the customer's payment operation is possible based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk in the second device (e.g., operation of the store clerk-side display unit of machine 3 or 5). The configuration (3) allows various checkout operations to be realized suitably. In other words, it is convenient because the customer can perform payment operations at the third device based on the predetermined operations of the store clerk at the second device.

[0201] (4) The second device is a sales data processing system as described in (3) above, characterized in that it is provided with a display unit for a store clerk (e.g., a store clerk display unit) capable of displaying a processing status screen showing the processing status of the settlement (e.g., the processing status screen of Figure 7(C)), and the third device enables the customer to perform the settlement operation based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk on the display unit (e.g., operation of the Yes button BT50 on the small screen SG20 of Figure 8(B)). The configuration (4) allows various checkout operations to be suitably realized. In other words, it is convenient because the customer can easily perform the payment operation at the third device by operating the display unit for the store clerk at the second device.

[0202] (5) The third device is a sales data processing system described in either (1) or (2) above, characterized in that settlement is performed using the registration data transmitted from the first device via the second device to the third device, and the registration data transmitted from the first device to a management device (e.g., store controller 80) and via the second device to the third device (see, for example, Figures 10 and 15). According to the configuration of (5), the flow of registered data is intuitively easy to understand.

[0203] (6) A sales data processing system according to any one of (1) to (4) above, characterized in that at least one of the first device, the second device, or the third device (for example, the registration and settlement device 50, which is a device No. 1 to No. 5 in Figure 5(B)) has a plurality of operating modes, including a first operating mode (for example, a face-to-face semi-self-service mode) in which products are registered based on the registration operation of a store clerk, and a second operating mode (for example, a full-self-service mode) in which products are registered based on the registration operation of a customer. The configuration (6) allows various checkout operations to be suitably realized, which is advantageous because the operation mode can be changed appropriately depending on the situation (daily situation, mid-term operation plan).

[0204] (7) A sales data processing system according to any one of (1) to (4) above, which includes a fourth device (for example, a second device in the second lane when the first device is the first device, or a first device in the first lane when the second device in the second lane is the first device) that registers products based on the registration operation of a store clerk, wherein the third device is capable of accepting a selection operation by the store clerk as a predetermined operation whether to settle the payment for the products registered in the first device using the registration data registered in the first device, or to settle the payment for the products registered in the fourth device using the registration data registered in the fourth device (for example, see Figure 8(D)), and the customer can settle the payment for the products registered in the first device or the fourth device based on the selection operation by the store clerk in the third device. The configuration (7) allows various checkout operations to be realized effectively. In other words, it is convenient because the customer can pay for the products registered in the first or fourth device based on the selection operation of the store clerk.

[0205] (8) One aspect for solving the above-mentioned problem is a settlement device (e.g., machine No. 4) that settles for merchandise registered in a registration device that registers merchandise based on a store clerk's registration operation based on a customer's settlement operation, and is equipped with a receiving means for receiving registration data registered in the registration device, a customer operation accepting means for accepting the customer's settlement operation, a settlement means that settles for merchandise registered in the registration device based on the customer's settlement operation by the customer operation accepting means using the registration data received by the receiving means, and a store clerk operation accepting means for accepting a predetermined operation by the store clerk, wherein the customer operation accepting means accepts the customer's settlement operation after the store clerk operation accepting means accepts the store clerk's predetermined operation. According to the configuration (8), various checkout operations can be suitably realized.

[0206] (9) One aspect for solving the above-mentioned problem is a settlement device (e.g., machine No. 3 or No. 5) that settles the payment for products registered in a registration device that registers products based on the registration operation of a store clerk based on the customer's payment operation, and is characterized by comprising: a receiving means for receiving registration data registered in the registration device; a customer operation accepting means for accepting the customer's payment operation; a settlement means that settles the payment for the products registered in the registration device based on the customer's payment operation by the customer operation accepting means using the registration data received by the receiving means; and a store clerk operation accepting means for accepting a store clerk's operation to instruct the payment for the products registered in the registration device at another settlement device (e.g., machine No. 4). According to the configuration (9), various checkout operations can be suitably realized.

[0207] (10) One aspect for solving the above-mentioned problem is a program that causes a computer to function as a settlement device (e.g., machine No. 4) that settles payments based on customer settlement operations for products registered in a registration device that registers products based on a store clerk's registration operations, and causes the computer to function as a receiving means that receives registration data registered in the registration device, a customer operation accepting means that accepts the customer's settlement operations, a settlement means that settles payments using the registration data received by the receiving means for products registered in the registration device based on the customer's settlement operations by the customer operation accepting means, and a store clerk operation accepting means that accepts a specified store clerk operation, and the customer operation accepting means accepts the customer's settlement operations after the store clerk operation accepting means accepts the store clerk's specified operations. According to the configuration (10), various checkout operations can be suitably realized.

[0208] (11) One aspect for solving the above-mentioned problem is a program that causes a computer to function as a settlement device (e.g., machine No. 3 or No. 5) that settles payments based on customer settlement operations for products registered in a registration device that registers products based on a store clerk's registration operations, characterized in that the program causes the computer to function as a receiving means that receives registration data registered in the registration device, a customer operation accepting means that accepts the customer's settlement operations, a settlement means that settles payments using the registration data received by the receiving means for products registered in the registration device based on the customer's settlement operations by the customer operation accepting means, and a store clerk operation accepting means that accepts store clerk operations to instruct settlement at another settlement device (e.g., machine No. 4) for products registered in the registration device. According to the configuration (11), various checkout operations can be suitably realized.

[0209] Note that a program for implementing the functions of each of the above-described devices (such as the registration and settlement device 30, the registration and settlement device 40, the registration and settlement device 50, the settlement device 21, the distribution device 90, and the transaction status management device 70) may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium may be loaded into a computer system and executed to perform processing for each of the above devices. Here, "loading a program recorded on a recording medium into a computer system and executing it" includes installing the program into 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 communication lines such as the Internet, a WAN, a LAN, and a dedicated line. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, and a CD-ROM, as well as storage devices such as a hard disk 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 recording medium of the distribution server may be different from the program code in a format executable by the terminal device. In other words, the format in which the program is stored on the distribution server is not important as long as it can be downloaded from the distribution server and installed in a format executable by the terminal device. The program may be divided into multiple parts, each downloaded at a different time and then combined on the terminal device, or each part 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 for implementing part of the functions described above.Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file (differential program). [Explanation of symbols]

[0210] 1...Sales system, 10...Registration device, 20...Payment device, 21...Payment device, 30...Registration and payment device, 40...Registration and payment device, 50...Registration and payment device, 70...Transaction status management device, 80...Store controller, 90...Distribution device

Claims

1. A sales data processing system including: a first device that registers merchandise based on a registration operation by a store clerk; a second device that settles a payment for the merchandise registered by the first device based on a checkout operation by a customer using registration data registered by the first device; and a third device that settles a payment for the merchandise registered by the first device based on a checkout operation by the customer using the registration data, The third device is The customer can then carry out a payment operation based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk on the third device. A sales data processing system.

2. The third device is A display unit for store clerks that can display a processing status screen showing the processing status of the settlement Equipped with 2. The sales data processing system according to claim 1, wherein the customer can perform a payment operation based on a predetermined operation by a store clerk on the display unit.

3. A sales data processing system including: a first device that registers merchandise based on a registration operation by a store clerk; a second device that settles a payment for the merchandise registered by the first device based on a checkout operation by a customer using registration data registered by the first device; and a third device that settles a payment for the merchandise registered by the first device based on a checkout operation by the customer using the registration data, The third device is The customer can make a payment based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk on the second device. A sales data processing system.

4. The second device is A display unit for store clerks that can display a processing status screen showing the processing status of the settlement Equipped with The third device is The customer can make a payment based on a predetermined operation by the store clerk on the display unit.

4. The sales data processing system according to claim 3.

5. The third device is Settlement is performed using the registration data transmitted from the first device to the third device via the second device, and the registration data transmitted from the first device to the third device via a management device and the second device.

5. The sales data processing system according to claim 1, wherein:

6. At least one of the first device, the second device, or the third device, The system has a plurality of operation modes, including a first operation mode in which products are registered based on a registration operation by a store clerk, and a second operation mode in which products are registered based on a registration operation by a customer.

5. The sales data processing system according to claim 1, wherein:

7. a fourth device that registers the product based on a registration operation by a store clerk; The third device is The predetermined operation by the store clerk can be accepted as a selection operation of whether to settle the bill for the commodity registered in the first device using the registration data registered in the first device, or to settle the bill for the commodity registered in the fourth device using the registration data registered in the fourth device, Based on the selection operation by the store clerk at the third device, the customer can perform a payment operation for the product registered at the first device or the fourth device.

5. The sales data processing system according to claim 1, wherein:

8. A payment device that performs payment based on a customer's payment operation for merchandise registered by a registration device that registers merchandise based on a registration operation by a store clerk, a receiving means for receiving registration data registered by the registration device; a customer operation receiving means for receiving a customer's payment operation; a settlement means for settling a payment for the product registered in the registration device based on a settlement operation by the customer via the customer operation reception means, using the registration data received by the reception means; a store clerk operation receiving means for receiving a predetermined operation by a store clerk; Equipped with The customer operation receiving means After the store clerk operation receiving means receives a predetermined operation from the store clerk, the store clerk operation is received. A settlement device characterized by:

9. A payment device that performs payment based on a customer's payment operation for merchandise registered by a registration device that registers merchandise based on a registration operation by a store clerk, a receiving means for receiving registration data registered by the registration device; a customer operation receiving means for receiving a customer's payment operation; a settlement means for settling a payment for the product registered in the registration device based on a settlement operation by the customer via the customer operation reception means, using the registration data received by the reception means; a store clerk operation receiving means for receiving a store clerk operation to instruct a payment at another payment device for the products registered at the registration device; Equipped with A settlement device characterized by:

10. A program that causes a computer to function as a payment device that performs payment based on a customer's payment operation for products registered by a registration device that registers products based on a registration operation by a store clerk, The computer a receiving means for receiving registration data registered by the registration device; a customer operation accepting means for accepting a customer's payment operation; a settlement means for settling a payment for the commodity registered in the registration device based on a settlement operation by the customer via the customer operation reception means, using the registration data received by the reception means; A store clerk operation receiving means for receiving predetermined operations by a store clerk It functions as The customer operation receiving means After the store clerk operation receiving means receives a predetermined operation from the store clerk, the store clerk operation is received. A program characterized by:

11. A program that causes a computer to function as a payment device that performs payment based on a customer's payment operation for products registered by a registration device that registers products based on a registration operation by a store clerk, The computer a receiving means for receiving registration data registered by the registration device; a customer operation accepting means for accepting a customer's payment operation; a settlement means for settling a payment for the commodity registered in the registration device based on a settlement operation by the customer via the customer operation reception means, using the registration data received by the reception means; a store clerk operation receiving means for receiving a store clerk operation to instruct a payment at another payment device for the products registered at the registration device; A program characterized by functioning as

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