Control system, control method, and program

The control system addresses the inconvenience of fixed shopping modes by enabling customers to switch between sequential and continuous product information display modes, enhancing shopping efficiency and convenience.

JP2026034538APending Publication Date: 2026-02-27NEC CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025244176
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-12-10
Publication Date
2026-02-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing shopping systems do not accommodate individual customer preferences for continuous or sequential product information reading, leading to inconvenience during the shopping process.

Method used

A control system that allows customers to select between a sequential confirmation mode for displaying a list of product information after each read and a continuous mode for continuous reading, enabling flexible operation based on customer preference.

Benefits of technology

Enhances shopping convenience by allowing customers to choose between modes, reducing the time required for product registration and improving the overall shopping experience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To improve convenience in shopping.SOLUTION: The control system controls a screen to be displayed on the terminal. The control system includes a transmission unit that transmits information on a commodity represented by identification information to a server device when the identification information is read on a reading screen on which the identification information of the commodity can be read by an operation of a customer on a terminal, a mode reception unit that receives one of a sequential check mode for displaying a list of information on the commodity when the identification information is read and a continuous mode for displaying the reading screen when the identification information is read, and a display control unit that causes the terminal to display a screen corresponding to the received mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to control systems and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a type of scan shopping in which a customer registers a product through an operation on a terminal device.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique in which a portable terminal device scans a barcode attached to a product and reads the product code. Patent Document 1 also describes a technique in which cart identification information and the product code are sent to a transaction management device, and the transaction management device identifies the cart information for the transaction using the cart identification information and updates the product data in the identified cart information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-128363 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, when reading product identification information, some customers may want to read product information continuously, while others may want to check the registered product each time they read it. For example, if the operation of the terminal device operated by the customer is uniquely determined, the customer may find it inconvenient to operate the terminal device when shopping.

[0006] An example of an object of the present disclosure is to provide a control system or the like that can improve convenience when shopping. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control system for controlling a screen displayed on a terminal device, the control system including: a registration means for registering a product represented by the identification information in a list when the identification information is read on a reading screen that can read the product identification information by a customer's operation on the terminal device; a mode acceptance means for accepting one of a sequential confirmation mode for displaying a list of information about the product when the identification information is read; and a continuous mode for displaying the reading screen when the identification information is read. The device is provided with a mode accepting means for accepting either a sequential confirmation mode or a continuous mode in which the reading screen is displayed when the identification information is read, and a display control means for causing the terminal device to display a screen corresponding to the accepted mode.

[0008] A control method in one aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for controlling a screen to be displayed on a terminal device, in which a computer, when identification information is read on a reading screen that can read the identification information of a product by a customer's operation on the terminal device, registers the product represented by the identification information in a list, accepts one of a sequential confirmation mode in which a list of information about the product is displayed when the identification information is read, and a continuous mode in which the reading screen is displayed when the identification information is read, and causes the terminal device to display a screen corresponding to the accepted mode.

[0009] A program in one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer that controls a screen to be displayed on a terminal device to execute a process in which, when identification information of a product is read on a reading screen that can read the identification information by a customer's operation on the terminal device, the computer accepts one of two modes: a sequential confirmation mode in which a list of information about the product is displayed when the identification information is read, and a continuous mode in which the reading screen is displayed when the identification information is read, and the computer controls a screen to be displayed on the terminal device according to the accepted mode.

[0010] The program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve convenience when shopping. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the control system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of connections between a control system according to a second embodiment and each device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a terminal device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of accepting a mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of screen transitions on the terminal device in a sequential confirmation mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the reading screen in the sequential confirmation mode. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen transition in a continuous scan mode. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a list screen in a continuous scan mode. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the reading screen in the continuous scan mode. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of accepting a mode while a reading screen is being displayed. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a screen for accepting a mode is displayed superimposed on the reading screen; [Figure 14]10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the control system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a process (step S201) before product registration by the control system. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a sequential confirmation mode process (step S204) by the control system. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing an example (part 1) of a specific processing procedure of the continuous scan mode processing (step S203) by the control system. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing an example (part 2) of a specific processing procedure of the continuous scan mode processing (step S203) by the control system. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a process (step S211) before product registration by a terminal device. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing an example (part 1) of a specific processing procedure of the sequential confirmation mode processing (step S214) by the terminal device. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing an example (part 2) of a specific processing procedure of the sequential confirmation mode processing (step S214) by the terminal device. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart showing an example (part 1) of a specific processing procedure of the continuous scan mode processing (step S213) by the terminal device. [Figure 23] 10 is a flowchart showing an example (part 2) of a specific processing procedure of the continuous scan mode processing (step S213) by the terminal device. [Figure 24] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a first processing example performed by a control system to determine whether an action is suspicious. [Figure 25] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a second processing example performed by the control system to determine whether or not a suspicious event has occurred. [Figure 26]10 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a processing example 3 performed by the control system to determine whether or not an action is suspicious. [Figure 27] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a fourth processing example in which the control system determines whether an action is suspicious. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a computer device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of a control system, a control method, a program, and a non-transitory recording medium for recording a program according to the present disclosure will be described in detail. The disclosed technology is not limited to these embodiments.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) First, in the first embodiment, the basic functions of the control system will be described. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control system according to the first embodiment. The control system 10 controls a screen to be displayed on a terminal device that can be operated by a customer in a store.

[0015] Here, the store may be, for example, a supermarket, a supercenter, a convenience store, a mass retailer, a home improvement store, a drugstore, a store selling apparel products, or an independent store such as a bakery or a prepared food store, and is not particularly limited.

[0016] When identification information is read on a reading screen that allows a customer to read the identification information of a product through operation of the terminal device, the registration unit 103 registers the product represented by the identification information in a list. Here, reading the identification information of a product means obtaining the identification information of the product. The list is a list of products purchased by the customer. Registering the product represented by the identification information in a list means, for example, adding the identification information to the list.

[0017] Here, the product identification information is not particularly limited as long as it can uniquely identify the product. Product identification information may be, for example, a product code, a product name, or an image of the product. Product codes include, but are not limited to, JAN (Japanese Article Number) codes, EAN (European Article Number) codes, and UPC (Universal Product Code). Product codes may be displayed on products as, for example, one-dimensional codes (barcodes) and two-dimensional codes. Product codes may also be displayed on products as a numeric string along with the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.

[0018] The mode acceptance unit 101 accepts either a sequential confirmation mode or a continuous mode. Here, the acceptance of a mode by the mode acceptance unit 101 means accepting a mode setting. Specifically, for example, the mode acceptance unit 101 may accept the mode by accepting information identifying the mode. In the sequential confirmation mode, when new identification information is read on a reading screen that can read the identification information of a product by a customer's operation on the terminal device, a list screen is displayed showing the list after the newly read identification information has been registered. Furthermore, the sequential confirmation mode is a mode that displays the reading screen when a reading instruction is received on the list screen. Here, the reading instruction is an instruction to newly read the identification information of a product. Note that the reading instruction is received, for example, by a customer's operation on the terminal device.

[0019] The continuous mode is a mode in which the reading screen is displayed when new identification information is read on the reading screen. Here, continuous refers to the ability to perform a new reading after a single reading or product registration. In the following explanation, when reading a one-dimensional code, for example, the continuous mode is also called continuous scan mode.

[0020] An example in which the mode acceptance unit 101 accepts a mode will be described. For example, the mode acceptance unit 101 may accept a mode set as a default. Alternatively, for example, the mode acceptance unit 101 may accept a mode in response to a user's operation on the terminal. The timing at which the mode acceptance unit 101 accepts a mode may be before product registration begins or during product registration, and is not particularly limited.

[0021] The display control unit 102 causes the terminal device to display a screen corresponding to the accepted mode. First, the processing of the display control unit 102 in the sequential confirmation mode will be described. The display control unit 102 causes a reading screen on which product identification information can be read by a customer's operation on the terminal device. Then, when new identification information is read on the reading screen, the display control unit 102 causes a list screen to be displayed, showing a list after the newly read identification information has been registered. When the display control unit 102 accepts a reading instruction on the list screen, the display control unit 102 causes the reading screen to be displayed. The display control unit 102 repeats this display control until product registration is completed.

[0022] Next, the processing of the display control unit 102 in the continuous scan mode will be described. The display control unit 102 displays a reading screen on which product identification information can be read by a customer's operation on the terminal device. When new identification information is read on the reading screen, the display control unit 102 keeps the reading screen displayed. The display control unit 102 repeats display control until product registration is completed.

[0023] 2 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the control system 10 according to the first embodiment. The timing at which the mode acceptance unit 101 accepts a mode is not particularly limited, but for ease of explanation, an example in which the mode is accepted first before product registration will be described. The mode acceptance unit 101 accepts a mode (step S101). The display control unit 102 determines whether the mode is the continuous scan mode or the sequential confirmation mode (step S102). In the case of the sequential confirmation mode (step S102: sequential confirmation mode), the display control unit 102 causes the terminal device to display a reading screen (step S103).

[0024] When new identification information is read, the registration unit 103 registers the identification information in the list, thereby registering the product (step S104). Next, the display control unit 102 causes the terminal device to display a list screen of the list after registration (step S105).

[0025] Next, the display control unit 102 determines whether a read instruction has been received (step S106). If a read instruction has been received (step S106: Yes), the display control unit 102 returns to step S103. If a read instruction has not been received (step S106: No), the display control unit 102 determines whether product registration has been completed (step S107). If product registration has not been completed (step S107: No), the display control unit 102 returns to step S106. This causes the control system 10 to wait until new reading or product registration is completed.

[0026] On the other hand, if the product registration is complete (step S107: Yes), the control system 10 ends the process.

[0027] In the case of the continuous scan mode (step S102: continuous scan mode), the display control unit 102 causes the terminal device to display a reading screen (step S108). When the identification information is read, the registration unit 103 registers the identification information in a list, thereby performing product registration (step S109).

[0028] Next, the display control unit 102 determines whether product registration is complete (step S110). If product registration is not complete (step S110: No), the display control unit 102 returns to step S108. If product registration is complete (step S110: Yes), the control system 10 ends the process.

[0029] After product registration is complete, payment and other procedures are performed. In step S107 and step S110, for example, whether product registration is complete is determined based on whether a payment instruction for making payment has been received.

[0030] As described above, in the first embodiment, the control system 10 can switch between a continuous scan mode in which product registration can be performed continuously and a sequential confirmation mode in which the customer is prompted to sequentially confirm the list after product registration. This allows the customer to switch between the modes according to their preference, thereby improving convenience when shopping.

[0031] The first embodiment is not limited to the above-described examples and can be modified in various ways. Furthermore, each functional unit may be realized by a single device such as a control device. Specifically, for example, each functional unit may be realized by a single server or a single terminal device that can be operated by a user. Alternatively, each functional unit may be realized by multiple devices. For example, each functional unit may be realized by multiple servers.

[0032] (Embodiment 2) Next, a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, a specific display example in each mode will be described, taking an example in which a barcode attached to a product is read. Below, explanations of content that overlaps with the above explanation will be omitted to the extent that the explanation of the second embodiment is not unclear.

[0033] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of connections between a control system and each device according to the second embodiment. The control system 20 is connected to a terminal device 21 via a communication network NT. The control system 20 is also connected to a beacon device 22 and the like via the communication network NT.

[0034] The terminal device 21 is a device that can be operated by a customer. The terminal device 21 is also a device that can be carried by a customer. The terminal device 21 may be attached to a cart or the like. The terminal device 21 is not particularly limited to a smartphone, a tablet device, a PC (Personal Computer), or the like. For example, the terminal device 21 may have a specific application program pre-installed, and various pieces of information may be input and output via the specific application program.

[0035] For example, the terminal device 21 that can be operated by a customer may capture an image of a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code using an imaging device of the terminal device 21, acquire a product code from the captured image, and transmit the product code to the control system 20. Alternatively, for example, the terminal device 21 that can be operated by a customer may capture an image of a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code using an imaging device of the terminal device 21, and transmit the captured image to the control system 20. The control system 20 may then acquire the product code from the image. In the following explanation, an example will be described in which the terminal device 21 acquires a product code from an image and transmits the acquired code to the control system 20. The number of terminal devices 21 is not particularly limited.

[0036] Furthermore, the device 22 is a device used to identify the position of the terminal device 21. The number of devices 22 is not particularly limited. The devices 22 are fixedly arranged. More specifically, for example, the devices 22 are arranged on the ceiling, floor, shelves, etc. of the store. Furthermore, for example, multiple devices 22 are distributed and arranged at different positions in the store. For example, if the device 22 is a transmitter that transmits radio waves, the terminal device 21 is a receiver that receives radio waves. On the other hand, if the device 22 is a receiver that receives radio waves, the terminal device 21 is a transmitter that transmits radio waves. The device 22 is, for example, a beacon device. For example, the position of the terminal device 21 is estimated based on the reception strength of radio waves transmitted and received between the device 22 and the terminal device 21.

[0037] 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system 20 according to the second embodiment. The control system 20 includes a mode acceptance unit 201, a display control unit 202, a registration unit 203, a determination unit 204, a position information acquisition unit 205, a settlement unit 206, and a notification unit 207. The control system 20 according to the second embodiment further includes the determination unit 204, the position information acquisition unit 205, the settlement unit 206, and the notification unit 207 in addition to the control system 20 according to the first embodiment. The mode acceptance unit 201, the display control unit 202, and the registration unit 203 according to the second embodiment have the basic functions of the mode acceptance unit 201, the display control unit 202, and the registration unit 203 according to the first embodiment, respectively.

[0038] The control system 20 also has a product DB 2001, a list DB 2002, a customer DB 2003, and a setting mode 2004. The setting mode 2004 stores the accepted mode.

[0039] The product DB 2001 stores, for each product, identification information for identifying the product and product information in association with each other. For example, if the product identification information is a product code, the product information is information such as the product name and product price. Note that the product information is not particularly limited.

[0040] The list DB2002 stores the latest list of items for which payments have not yet been completed, for each customer. For example, the list stores, for each customer, customer identification information that identifies the customer, identification information (e.g., product code) of the product the customer plans to purchase, and purchase quantity information, in association with each other. The customer identification information is not particularly limited as long as it can uniquely identify the customer. For example, before starting to register products for a new customer, the customer is assigned a customer ID (Identifier) ​​as customer identification information. Note that if a member ID such as a point card number is accepted, the member ID may be used as the customer ID. The list DB2002 may also store lists for each transaction. For example, in the case of each transaction, a transaction ID may be assigned instead of the customer ID. Note that the list may also be called a shopping cart.

[0041] The customer DB 2003 stores customer information for each customer. For example, the customer DB 2003 stores customer identification information for identifying each customer in association with information about the customer. For example, the information about the customer may be the customer's purchase history, the customer's location information in the store, or the customer's movement history, or information about a customer who has been determined to be suspicious in the past, as will be described later. Ta It may be a flag indicating whether the item is a

[0042] 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 21 according to the second embodiment. The terminal device 21 includes an operation receiving unit 211, a display unit 212, and a reading unit 213.

[0043] The operation reception unit 211 receives operations by a customer via an input device. The type of input device is not particularly limited, but an input / output device such as a touch panel display will be described as an example. The display unit 212 displays each screen on the display device of the terminal device 21 in accordance with the control of the display control unit 202. The reading unit 213 reads product identification information. Hereinafter, the reading unit 213 will be described as an example in which the reading unit 213 captures an image of a displayed barcode with an imaging device of the terminal device 21 and obtains a product code from the captured image.

[0044] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 4, the mode acceptance unit 201 accepts either the sequential confirmation mode or the continuous scan mode. The mode acceptance unit 201 may accept the mode through a customer's operation on the terminal device 21. Alternatively, the mode acceptance unit 201 may accept a predetermined default mode.

[0045] The timing at which the mode receiving unit 201 receives a mode is not particularly limited. For example, this timing may be the timing when a user enters a store and starts shopping. In other words, this timing is before product registration begins. This timing may be while a reading screen or a list screen is being displayed in each mode. This timing may be the timing when a new reading instruction is received. An example of receiving a mode when a user enters a store and starts shopping will be described below with reference to FIG. 6. An example of receiving a mode while a reading screen is being displayed will be described later.

[0046] <Example of accepting mode selection> Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of accepting a mode. In Fig. 6, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a screen d001 that allows selection of either the sequential confirmation mode or the continuous scan mode. Then, the display unit 212 causes the display device of the terminal device 21 to display the screen d001. The screen d001 includes a button that allows selection of the sequential confirmation mode and a button that allows selection of the continuous scan mode. The screen d001 also includes a "Go to product registration" button.

[0047] For example, when one of the mode buttons is selected and the "Go to product registration" button is tapped, the operation acceptance unit 211 accepts the mode corresponding to the selected button. Then, the operation acceptance unit 211 transmits the accepted mode to the control system 20. The mode acceptance unit 201 accepts the mode by receiving it. The mode acceptance unit 201 stores the accepted mode in the setting mode 2004. Then, for example, product registration may be started in each mode.

[0048] Next, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a screen according to the mode.

[0049] <Screen example of sequential confirmation mode> First, the sequential confirmation mode will be described. The display control unit 202 displays a reading screen on which a product code can be read by a customer's operation on the terminal device 21. When a new product code is read on the reading screen, the display control unit 202 displays a list screen showing a list after the newly read product code has been registered. When the display control unit 202 receives a reading instruction on the list screen, it displays the reading screen. The display control unit 202 repeats this display control until product registration is complete. The reading screen may include information indicating that the mode is sequential confirmation mode.

[0050] An example of screen transitions on the terminal device 21 in the sequential confirmation mode will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of screen transitions on the terminal device 21 in the sequential confirmation mode. The display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a reading screen d101 capable of reading a barcode. Then, the display unit 212 displays the reading screen d101 on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0051] The reading screen d101 includes information indicating that the mode is sequential confirmation mode, such as "sequential confirmation mode." This allows the customer to confirm in which mode they are scanning.

[0052] In FIG. 7, the imaging device is activated on the terminal device 21. A reading frame is displayed on the reading screen d101. The reading frame indicates a position where the imaging device of the terminal device 21 can read a barcode. Hereinafter, the reading frame may be abbreviated to "frame." For example, when a barcode enters the frame on the reading screen d101, the reading unit 213 recognizes the barcode from the image. Then, the reading unit 213 transmits the product code represented by the barcode to the control system 20. Note that the reading unit 213 may transmit the product code together with a customer ID or a transaction ID.

[0053] When the registration unit 203 receives the product code, it registers the product code in a list. As a specific example of the registration process, the registration unit 203 searches the list DB 2002 for a list associated with the customer ID. Then, the registration unit 203 registers the product code in the searched list.

[0054] After registration, the display control unit 202 displays a list screen d102 of the products whose product codes have been registered in the list. Then, the display unit 212 displays the list screen on the display device of the terminal device 21. In FIG. 7, the list screen d102 displays a list of products. The list screen d102 may also include a button for changing the quantity of products, an "Add Product" button, a "Cancel Transaction" button, and a "Pay" button. The "Cancel Transaction" button is a button for ending the transaction. The "Pay" button is a button for ending product registration and making payment.

[0055] Furthermore, the "add product" button is a button for accepting a reading instruction. For example, when the "add product" button is tapped, the operation accepting unit 211 regards the reading instruction as having been accepted and transmits the reading instruction to the control system 20. When the display control unit 202 receives the reading instruction, it displays a reading screen d101. Then, the display unit 212 displays the reading screen d101 on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0056] In the example of Fig. 7, when a product code is read on the reading screen d101, the registration unit 203 registers the product code in the list, but this is not limited to this. After the product code is read on the reading screen and a registration instruction from the customer is received, the product code may be registered in the list by the registration unit 203. Here, the registration instruction is an instruction to register the identification information, which is the read product code, in the list. The reading screen in this example will be described using Fig. 8.

[0057] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the reading screen in the sequential confirmation mode. In FIG. 8, the reading screen d103 includes a display field for product information corresponding to the product code and an "Add to Shopping Cart" button that can accept a registration instruction. For example, after the reading unit 213 transmits the read product code to the control system 20, the registration unit 203 identifies product information corresponding to the product code from the product DB 2001. Then, the display control unit 202 displays the product information on the reading screen d103. To display the product information, the display control unit 202 simply transmits the product information to the terminal device 21. The display unit 212 simply displays the product information in a display field on the reading screen d103. In FIG. 8, the product name and product price are displayed.

[0058] When the "Add to Cart" button is tapped, the operation reception unit 211 determines that a registration instruction has been received and transmits the registration instruction to the control system 20. When the registration instruction is received, the registration unit 203 registers the product code in the list. After the registration, the display control unit 202 displays a list screen d102 of the list as shown in FIG.

[0059] In this way, the process from reading the product code to registering the product code may be performed through a two-step operation: a reading operation for reading the product code, and a registration operation for registering the product code after reading.

[0060] For example, if a new product code is read without receiving a registration instruction, the immediately preceding product code does not need to be registered in the list.

[0061] <Continuous scan mode screen example> Next, the continuous scan mode will be described. The display control unit 202 displays a reading screen on which a product code can be read by a customer's operation on the terminal device 21. When a new product code is read on the reading screen, the display control unit 202 keeps the reading screen displayed. The display control unit 202 repeats display control until product registration is complete. However, in the continuous scan mode, the display control unit 202 may display a list screen when it receives a list display instruction on the reading screen, and may display the reading screen when it receives a reading instruction on the list screen. The display instruction is an instruction to display the list on the terminal device 21. In other words, the display instruction is an instruction to display a list screen of the list on the terminal device 21. The reading screen may include information indicating that the mode is continuous scan mode.

[0062] Furthermore, when a product code is read in the continuous scan mode, the display control unit 202 may display information about the product identified by the read product code on the reading screen. The product information may be, for example, the product name and price contained in the product DB 2001.

[0063] 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of screen transition in the continuous scan mode. In FIG. 9, for example, in the continuous scan mode, the display control unit 202 displays a reading screen d201 on the terminal device 21. Then, the display unit 212 displays the reading screen d201 on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0064] The reading screen d201 includes information indicating that the mode is continuous scanning, such as "continuous scanning mode." This allows the customer to confirm which mode they are scanning in.

[0065] 9, an imaging device is activated on the terminal device 21. A frame for reading is displayed on the reading screen d201. In FIG. 9, the reading screen d201 includes a display field for information on registered products and a "View Shopping Cart" button that can receive an instruction to display the list.

[0066] For example, when a barcode enters the frame of the reading screen d201, the reading unit 213 recognizes the barcode from the image. Then, the reading unit 213 transmits the product code represented by the barcode to the control system 20. Note that the reading unit 213 may transmit the product code together with the customer ID or the transaction ID.

[0067] When the registration unit 203 receives the product code, it registers the product code in a list. As a specific example of the registration process, the registration unit 203 searches the list DB 2002 for a list associated with the customer ID. Then, the registration unit 203 registers the product code in the searched list.

[0068] Next, the registration unit 203 identifies information about the product associated with the product code from the product DB 2001. Then, the display control unit 202 displays the product information in a display field for product information on the reading screen d201. The display unit 212 displays the registered product information on the reading screen d201. In FIG. 9, the reading screen d201 displays "ZOO Biscuits" as the name of the registered product and "252 yen" as the price in the display field.

[0069] When the registered product information is displayed, the reading screen d201 becomes ready to read the product code. This allows the next reading to be performed. For example, the reading unit 213 reads a new product code on the reading screen d201 and transmits the new product code to the control system 20. The registration unit 203 identifies product information associated with the product code from the product DB 2001. The display control unit 202 then displays the product information in a display field for product information on the reading screen d201. The display unit 212 displays the registered product information on the reading screen d201. In FIG. 9, the reading screen d201 displays the registered product name "Delicious Milk" and the price "218 yen" in the display field.

[0070] In this way, products can be registered one after another while the reading screen d201 is displayed. Therefore, if customers who have a large number of products or who are familiar with the operation use the continuous scan mode, the time required for product registration can be reduced, improving customer convenience.

[0071] Furthermore, when the "View Shopping Cart" button is tapped, the operation accepting unit 211 determines that an instruction to display the list has been accepted and transmits the instruction to display the list to the control system 20. Then, upon receiving the instruction to display the list, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a list screen of the list.

[0072] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a list screen in continuous scan mode. The display control unit 202 displays a list screen d202 of products whose product codes have been registered in the latest list. The display unit 212 then displays the list screen d202 on the display device of the terminal device 21. In FIG. 10, the list screen d202 displays a list of products. The list screen d202 may also include a button for changing the quantity of products, an "Add Product" button, a "Cancel Transaction" button, and a "Pay" button. The "Cancel Transaction" button is a button for ending the transaction. The "Pay" button is a button for ending product registration and making a payment. In FIG. 10, the list screen d202 displays information about the two products registered in FIG. 9.

[0073] Furthermore, the "add product" button is a button for accepting a reading instruction. For example, when the "add product" button is tapped, the operation accepting unit 211 determines that the reading instruction has been accepted and transmits the reading instruction to the control system 20. Upon receiving the reading instruction, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a reading screen d201. Then, the display unit 212 displays the reading screen d201 on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0074] The list screen may be the same in the continuous scan mode and the sequential confirmation mode.

[0075] Although not shown in the drawings, as described above, in any mode, after a reading instruction is received on the list screen, a mode selection screen d001 as shown in Fig. 6 may be displayed. Alternatively, the display control unit 202 may cause the terminal device 21 to display a mode selection screen d001 as shown in Fig. 6 every time a reading instruction is received a predetermined number of times on the list screen or every time a predetermined time has elapsed since product registration began.

[0076] Furthermore, the reading screen d201 shown in FIG. 9 is an example and is not particularly limited.

[0077] Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a reading screen in continuous scan mode. In Fig. 11, for example, in continuous scan mode, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a reading screen d203 capable of accepting a list display instruction. Then, the display unit 212 displays the reading screen d203 on the display device of the terminal device 21.

[0078] In FIG. 11, the read screen d203 includes a display field for information on registered products and a "View Shopping Cart" button that can accept an instruction to display the list.

[0079] For example, when the reading unit 213 reads a product code, it transmits the product code to the control system 20. When the registration unit 203 receives the product code, it acquires product information associated with the product code from the product DB 2001. Then, the display control unit 202 displays a reading screen d204 that can accept a registration instruction. At this time, the display control unit 202 displays product information in a product information display field on this reading screen d204. The display unit 212 displays the product information on the reading screen d204. In FIG. 11, the product name and product price are displayed. In FIG. 11, the reading screen d204 displays the product name "ZOO Biscuits" and the price "252 yen" in the display field.

[0080] The reading screen d204 displaying product information includes an "Add to Cart" button that can accept a registration instruction. When the "Add to Cart" button is tapped, the operation accepting unit 211 determines that the registration instruction has been accepted and transmits the registration instruction to the control system 20. When the registration instruction is accepted, the registration unit 203 registers the product code in the list. After registration, the display control unit 202 displays a reading screen d203 that can accept an instruction to display the list. The display unit 212 displays this reading screen d203.

[0081] In this way, the process from reading the product code to registering the product code may be performed through a two-step operation: a reading operation for reading the product code, and a registration operation for registering the product code after reading.

[0082] (Example of accepting a mode while the reading screen is displayed) Next, an example will be described in which the mode accepting unit 201 accepts another mode while the reading screen is being displayed in one mode.

[0083] For example, the mode acceptance unit 201 may accept the continuous scan mode on a reading screen for the sequential confirmation mode. Also, for example, the mode acceptance unit 201 may accept the continuous scan mode on a reading screen for the continuous scan mode. The mode acceptance unit 201 stores the accepted mode in the setting mode 2004. A specific acceptance example will be described with reference to FIG. 12.

[0084] FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of accepting a mode while the reading screen is displayed. First, the sequential confirmation mode will be described. For example, the reading screen d301 for the sequential confirmation mode may further include a button that can accept the continuous scan mode. In FIG. 12, this button is a "Switch to continuous scan mode" button. When the "Switch to continuous scan mode" button is tapped, the operation accepting unit 211 determines that the continuous scan mode has been accepted and transmits the continuous scan mode to the control system 20. Note that transmitting the mode means, for example, transmitting information that identifies the mode. The mode accepting unit 201 accepts the continuous scan mode by receiving the continuous scan mode. Then, when the display control unit 202 accepts the continuous scan mode, it displays the reading screen d302 in the continuous scan mode.

[0085] Next, the continuous scan mode will be described. For example, the reading screen d302 in the continuous scan mode may further include a button that can accept the sequential confirmation mode. In FIG. 12, this button is a "Switch to sequential confirmation mode" button. When the "Switch to sequential confirmation mode" button is tapped, the operation accepting unit 211 determines that the sequential mode has been accepted and transmits the sequential confirmation mode to the control system 20. Note that the mode accepting unit 201 accepts the sequential confirmation mode by receiving the sequential confirmation mode. Then, upon accepting the sequential confirmation mode, the display control unit 202 displays the reading screen d301 in the sequential confirmation mode. Note that the example is not limited to displaying the reading screen d301 after accepting the sequential confirmation mode; upon accepting the sequential confirmation mode, the display control unit 202 may display a list screen in the sequential confirmation mode.

[0086] In this way, it is possible to switch between modes using each reading screen, such as the reading screen d301 and the reading screen d302.

[0087] Furthermore, the example of accepting a mode while the reading screen for each mode is displayed is not limited to this. For example, the display control unit 202 may display a screen that can accept a mode superimposed on the reading screen.

[0088] 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying a screen for accepting a mode superimposed on the reading screen. Here, the continuous scan mode is taken as an example. In the continuous scan mode, the display control unit 202 displays a screen d401 for accepting a mode superimposed on the reading screens d201 and d203 at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing may be when a customer's operation is determined to be suspicious, as described below, or when no operation is performed for a predetermined period of time, and is not particularly limited.

[0089] Then, in the continuous scan mode, the display unit 212 displays a screen d401 that can accept the sequential confirmation mode, superimposed on the reading screens d201 and d203. In FIG. 13, the screen d401 that can accept the sequential confirmation mode includes a "Yes" button and a "No" button. When "Yes" is tapped, the operation accepting unit 211 transmits the sequential confirmation mode, assuming that the sequential confirmation mode has been accepted. Then, the mode accepting unit 201 accepts the sequential confirmation mode by receiving the sequential confirmation mode.

[0090] Although not shown, the display control unit 202 may superimpose a screen that can accept the continuous scan mode on the reading screens d101 and d103 in the sequential confirmation mode at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing may be, for example, when the number of registered products in a unit time is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, and is not particularly limited.

[0091] In this way, examples of accepting a mode while the reading screen is displayed in each mode are not particularly limited. For example, the mode accepting unit 201 may switch to the sequential confirmation mode when a new product code is not read for a predetermined time or more in the continuous scan mode.

[0092] Furthermore, the display control unit 202 may display a list screen when a new product code is not read for a predetermined time or longer in the continuous scan mode. Then, the display unit 212 displays the list screen. At this time, as described above, the mode reception unit 201 may switch from the continuous scan mode to the sequential confirmation mode when a new product code is not read for a predetermined time or longer. Alternatively, the display control unit 202 may display the list screen while remaining in the continuous scan mode.

[0093] Furthermore, if a new product code is not read for a predetermined time or longer in the sequential confirmation mode, the display control unit 202 may display the list screen while remaining in the sequential confirmation mode. Then, the display unit 212 displays the list screen.

[0094] (Example of determining suspicious customer behavior) Next, in the continuous scan mode, customers can register products one after another, so it is possible that a customer may act as if they are registering products, but actually shoplift without registering the products. Therefore, the control system 20 determines whether an action that appears to be product registration has been performed.

[0095] The determination unit 204 determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious. There are no particular limitations on the determination method, but four examples of the determination method will be described.

[0096] <Judgment Example 1> The number of digits in a product code is predetermined, such as 13 or 7 digits. For example, if a code with fewer digits than this number is repeatedly read, it is possible that the customer is pretending to have registered the product. Therefore, the determination unit 204 determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the newly read product code has a predetermined number of digits. More specifically, for example, if the determination unit 204 determines that the newly read product code does not have the predetermined number of digits or has fewer digits than the predetermined number of digits a predetermined number of times in a row, it determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious. The predetermined number of times is not particularly limited and may be determined by a store clerk. Alternatively, for example, if the determination unit 204 determines that the newly read product code does not have the predetermined number of digits or has fewer digits than the predetermined number of digits for a predetermined period of time or more in a row, it determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious. The predetermined period of time is not particularly limited and may be determined by a store clerk.

[0097] <Judgment Example 2> When performing an operation that appears to have registered a product, it is conceivable that the barcode of each product is quickly held up over the imaging device of the terminal device 21. For this reason, if the barcode of each product is held up over the imaging device multiple times in rapid succession, the product code may be accidentally read. In such a case, it is assumed that the time required for reading is short.

[0098] Therefore, the determination unit 204 determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the time required to read a new product code is within a predetermined time. For example, if the time required to read a new product code is within a predetermined time, the determination unit 204 determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious.

[0099] <Judgment Example 3> For example, when performing actions that appear to have registered a product, the customer may pass each product so that the barcode is not captured by the image capture device of the terminal device 21. In such cases, it is conceivable that the product code will not be read on the reading screen for a long time. Therefore, the determination unit 204 determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether a new product code has not been read for a predetermined period of time or more. For example, if a new product code has not been read for a predetermined period of time or more, the determination unit 204 determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious.

[0100] <Judgment Example 4> For example, when performing actions that appear to have registered products, the customer may pass each product so that the barcode is not captured by the imaging device of the terminal device 21. In such cases, an object may be captured by the imaging device of the terminal device 21. Therefore, the determination unit 204 determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the passage of an object is confirmed within the angle of view of the imaging device of the terminal device 21 a predetermined number of times or more within a predetermined time period. Specifically, for example, the determination unit 204 determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious when the passage of an object is confirmed by the imaging device of the terminal device 21.

[0101] This concludes the description of each determination method.

[0102] <What to do in case of suspicion> Next, if the customer's behavior is determined to be suspicious, the control system 20 may switch from the continuous scan mode to the sequential check mode, or may alert a store clerk.

[0103] For example, the mode acceptance unit 201 may accept the sequential confirmation mode when the customer's behavior is determined to be suspicious in the continuous scan mode. This allows for forced switching to the sequential confirmation mode when a suspicious behavior is detected.

[0104] Furthermore, when the customer's behavior is determined to be suspicious in the continuous scan mode, the display control unit 202 may superimpose a screen for accepting the mode on the reading screen as shown in FIG.

[0105] Furthermore, in the continuous scan mode, when the display control unit 202 determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious, the display control unit 202 may display a warning or question to the customer on the reading screen. For example, the warning or question to the customer may be a comment suggesting that the customer's reading is not going well. For example, the warning or question to the customer may be a question about the need to call a store clerk because the customer's reading is not going well.

[0106] Furthermore, when the alarm unit 207 determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious, it may notify a store clerk that the customer's behavior is suspicious. The method of notification by the alarm unit 207 is not particularly limited, and may include an electronic message, an email, display control of the store clerk's terminal device, or output control of an output device such as a lighting device or display device installed in the store. The store clerk's terminal device is not shown. For example, the alarm unit 207 notifies the store clerk's terminal device.

[0107] The notification unit 207 may also notify the store clerk along with customer identification information for identifying the customer, such as a customer ID.

[0108] Furthermore, when issuing a notification, the notification unit 207 may also notify the customer's location information. Specifically, for example, the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires the customer's location information. The method for acquiring the customer's location information is not particularly limited. As a method for acquiring the location information, the location information acquisition unit 205 may acquire the customer's location information by identifying the customer's location using an imaging device installed in the store. Alternatively, as another acquisition method, the location information acquisition unit 205 may acquire the customer's location information by identifying the location of the terminal device 21 through wireless communication between the device 22 and the customer's terminal device 21.

[0109] For example, the store clerk's terminal device may display the customer's location and the fact that the customer's behavior is suspicious on a map of the store. Note that the display control unit 202 may control the display on the store clerk's terminal device.

[0110] For example, if there are multiple store clerks, the notification unit 207 may notify some or all of the multiple store clerks. Furthermore, for example, the notification unit 207 may notify store clerks who are within a predetermined distance from the customer's location. Alternatively, for example, if there are multiple store clerks, the notification unit 207 may notify the store clerk who is closest to the customer's location. The location information of the store clerk may be the location information of the store clerk's terminal device, or may be location information identified from an image or video captured by an imaging device installed in the store. The location information of the store clerk's terminal device may be identified using a beacon or the like, similar to the location information of the customer's terminal device.

[0111] Furthermore, for example, the alarm unit 207 may control the lighting of a lighting device installed near the location indicated by the customer's location information. For example, a lighting state or an extinguishing state that indicates that the customer's behavior is suspicious may be predetermined, and the alarm unit 207 may control the lighting device to turn on or off in the predetermined manner. Here, lighting may mean blinking at a predetermined interval, staying lit, lighting in a predetermined color, or the like. This allows a store employee to know that a customer behaving suspiciously is nearby by looking at the lighting device.

[0112] Furthermore, for example, when a transaction is determined to be suspicious, the determination unit 204 may set a flag in the customer DB 2003 indicating whether the transaction has been determined to be suspicious in the past to a value indicating that the transaction has been determined to be suspicious. For example, the customer DB 2003 may store not only a flag indicating whether the transaction has been determined to be suspicious in the past, but also the number of times the transaction has been determined to be suspicious in the past. In this case, when a transaction is determined to be suspicious, the determination unit 204 may count up the number of times the transaction has been determined to be suspicious in the past, which is stored in the customer DB 2003.

[0113] (settlement) For example, the payment may be made at the terminal device 21 or at another settlement device, and the payment method is not particularly limited.

[0114] Here, we will give an example of what is done in the terminal device 21. For example, when the "Pay" button on the list screen is tapped in each mode, the operation reception unit 211 determines that product registration is complete and transmits a payment instruction to the control system 20. Then, when the settlement unit 206 receives the payment instruction, it generates settlement information including the total price, including tax, of the products represented by the product codes included in the list. Then, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display the settlement information. The display unit 212 displays the settlement information.

[0115] When the operation reception unit 211 receives a payment instruction, it transmits the payment instruction to the control system 20. When the payment unit 206 receives the payment instruction, it performs the payment. For example, the payment method performed using the terminal device 21 is not particularly limited to credit card payment, code payment, electronic money payment, etc.

[0116] <Example of operation of control system 20> 14 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the control system 20 according to the second embodiment. The control system 20 performs a process before product registration (step S201). Then, the control system 20 determines whether the mode is a continuous scan mode or a sequential confirmation mode (step S202).

[0117] In the case of the continuous scan mode (step S202: continuous scan mode), the control system 20 performs the continuous scan mode process (step S203). On the other hand, in the case of the sequential confirmation mode (step S202: sequential confirmation mode), the control system 20 performs the sequential confirmation mode process (step S204). Furthermore, when the process in each mode is completed, the control system 20 ends the process.

[0118] 14, similarly to the control system 20. Therefore, an explanation of an example of the overall operation of the terminal device 21 will be omitted, but an example of the operation of each process will be explained. Note that step S211, step S212, step S213, step S214, symbol J, and symbol K in parentheses are steps and symbols performed by the terminal device 21, and will be used in the explanation of each process performed by the terminal device 21 described below. However, the terminal device 21 does not need to perform the process of determining which mode is the current mode (step S212). This is because the terminal device 21 only needs to display each screen and accept each operation by the customer in accordance with the control of the display control unit 202.

[0119] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of the process (step S201) before product registration by the control system 20. Here, the timing of accepting the mode is not particularly limited, but for ease of explanation, FIG. 15 shows an example in which a mode selection is accepted by a customer's operation before product registration begins. For example, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a list screen of an empty list (step S301). Here, the list is empty because scanning has not started. The display control unit 202 determines whether a reading instruction has been received (step S302). If a reading instruction has not been received (step S302: No), the display control unit 202 returns to step S302.

[0120] If a read instruction is received (step S302: Yes), the display control unit 202 displays a mode acceptance screen (step S303). An example of this screen is a screen d001 shown in FIG.

[0121] The mode acceptance unit 201 determines whether a mode has been received (step S304). The mode acceptance unit 201 accepts the mode by receiving the mode. If a mode has not been received (step S304: No), the mode acceptance unit 201 returns to step S304. If a mode has been received (step S304: Yes), the mode acceptance unit 201 records the accepted mode in the setting mode 2004 (step S305). After step S305, the control system 20 returns. As a result, the control system 20 performs processing according to the selected mode.

[0122] Note that the mode acceptance unit 201 is not limited to accepting a mode operated by a customer before product registration, and may accept a preset default mode or a mode previously set by a customer. For example, the mode acceptance unit 201 may accept a mode operated by a customer as an initial setting of a specific application program, and is not particularly limited.

[0123] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of the sequential confirmation mode processing (step S204) by the control system 20. In the example shown in Fig. 16, an example will be described in which the control system 20 receives a product code read by the terminal device 21 and registers the product. The display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a reading screen (step S311). Examples of the reading screen here include the reading screen d101 shown in Fig. 7 and the reading screen d302 shown in Fig. 12.

[0124] Next, the registration unit 203 determines whether a product code has been received (step S312). If a product code has not been received (step S312: No), the mode reception unit 201 determines whether a continuous scan mode has been received (step S320). The determination in step S320 is made, for example, when a button that allows mode switching is displayed on the reading screen, such as the reading screen d302 shown in FIG. 12. If the continuous scan mode has not been received (step S320: No), the registration unit 203 returns to step S312.

[0125] On the other hand, if continuous scan mode is received (step S320: Yes), the mode receiving unit 201 records the received mode in the setting mode 2004 (step S321) and proceeds to step S203. This switches from sequential confirmation mode to continuous scan mode, and continuous scan mode processing (step S203) is performed.

[0126] Furthermore, if a product code has been received (step S312: Yes), the registration unit 203 registers the product (step S313). The display control unit 202 displays a list screen of the registered list (step S314). The display control unit 202 determines whether a read instruction has been received (step S315). If a read instruction has been received (step S315: Yes), the display control unit 202 returns to step S311. As a result, a new read screen is displayed on the terminal device 21.

[0127] If a reading instruction has not been received (step S315: No), the display control unit 202 determines whether a payment instruction has been received (step S316). A payment instruction is transmitted from the terminal device 21, for example, when a "Pay" button or the like is tapped on the terminal device 21. If a payment instruction has not been received (step S316: No), the display control unit 202 returns to step S315. This causes the control system 20 to wait for a reading instruction or a payment instruction.

[0128] On the other hand, if a payment instruction has been received (step S316: Yes), the settlement unit 206 generates settlement information (step S317). Here, the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display the settlement information.

[0129] The settlement unit 206 then determines whether a settlement instruction has been received (step S318). For example, in the case of credit card payment, the settlement instruction is transmitted from the terminal device 21 when the information required for credit card payment is entered into the terminal device 21 and a button such as a button for confirming payment is tapped. If a settlement instruction has not been received (step S318: No), the settlement unit 206 returns to step S318. On the other hand, if a settlement instruction has been received (step S318: Yes), the settlement unit 206 performs the settlement (step S319). After step S319, the control system 20 returns. This causes the control system 20 to end the series of processes.

[0130] Steps S317 to S319 are an example of a case where payment is made via terminal device 21. For example, payment may be made via a settlement device or the like.

[0131] The order of each step can be changed as appropriate. For example, the order of step S312 and step S320 is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the order of step S315 and step S316 is not particularly limited. Furthermore, by storing a mode in setting mode 2004, when a new transaction is started, the stored mode may be used without accepting a new mode through a customer operation.

[0132] 17 and 18 are flowcharts showing an example of a specific processing procedure of the continuous scan mode processing (step S203) by the control system 20. First, the display control unit 202 displays the reading screen (step S331). The registration unit 203 determines whether a product code has been received (step S332). If a product code has been received (step S332: Yes), the registration unit 203 performs product registration (step S333) and returns to step S331. As a result, the reading screen remains displayed. Furthermore, in step S331, after product registration, the display control unit 202 may display product information such as the price and product name of the registered product in a display field on the reading screen.

[0133] On the other hand, if the product code has not been received (step S332: No), the mode receiving unit 201 determines whether the sequential confirmation mode has been received (step S334). The determination in step S334 is made when a button that allows switching modes is displayed on the reading screen, as in the screen shown in FIG.

[0134] If the sequential confirmation mode is received (step S334: Yes), the mode reception unit 201 records the received mode in the setting mode 2004 (step S335) and proceeds to step S204. This switches from the continuous scan mode to the sequential confirmation mode, and the sequential confirmation mode process (step S204) is performed.

[0135] On the other hand, if the sequential confirmation mode has not been received (step S334: No), the display control unit 202 determines whether to display a list of lists (step S336). In step S336, the display control unit 202 determines that the list of lists will be displayed when a "View Shopping Cart" button or the like is tapped, as shown in the screen of FIG.

[0136] If the list is not to be displayed (step S336: No), the display control unit 202 returns to step S332. On the other hand, if the list is to be displayed (step S336: Yes), the display control unit 202 causes the terminal device 21 to display a list screen (step S337). The display control unit 202 determines whether a reading instruction has been received (step S338). If a reading instruction has been received (step S338: Yes), the display control unit 202 returns to step S331. This causes a new reading screen in the continuous scan mode to be displayed.

[0137] On the other hand, if a reading instruction has not been received (step S338: No), the settlement unit 206 determines whether a payment instruction has been received (step S339). If a payment instruction has not been received (step S339: No), the registration unit 203 returns to step S332. If a payment instruction has been received (step S339: Yes), the settlement unit 206 generates settlement information (step S340).

[0138] Then, the settlement unit 206 determines whether a settlement instruction has been received (step S341). On the other hand, if a settlement instruction has not been received (step S341: No), the settlement unit 206 returns to step S341. If a settlement instruction has been received (step S341: Yes), the settlement unit 206 performs the settlement (step S342). Then, the control system 20 returns. This causes the control system 20 to end the series of processes.

[0139] The order of each step can be changed as appropriate. The order of steps S332, S334, and S336 is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the order of steps S338 and S339 is not particularly limited. Furthermore, by storing a mode in setting mode 2004, when a new transaction is started, the stored mode may be used without accepting a new mode through a customer operation.

[0140] <Example of operation of terminal device 21> As described above, the terminal device 21 operates in the order shown in Fig. 14, similar to the control system 20. Therefore, an explanation of an example of the overall operation of the terminal device 21 will be omitted, but an example of the operation of each process will be explained.

[0141] 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of the processing (step S211) before product registration by the terminal device 21. The display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S401). If the screen is not to be displayed (step S401: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S401. That is, the display unit 212 is in a standby state for control by the display control unit 202. In the following explanation, if the result of the processing of determining whether to display a new screen is No, the display unit 212 is in a standby state for control by the display control unit 202.

[0142] When the screen is to be displayed (step S401: Yes), the display unit 212 displays a list screen of an empty list (step S402).

[0143] Next, the operation acceptance unit 211 determines whether a read instruction has been accepted (step S403). In step S403, the operation acceptance unit 211 accepts a read instruction when an "Add Product" button or the like is tapped on the list screen. If a read instruction has not been accepted (step S403: No), the operation acceptance unit 211 returns to step S403. On the other hand, if a read instruction has been accepted (step S403: Yes), the operation acceptance unit 211 transmits the read instruction to the control system 20 (step S404). As a result, the mode acceptance unit 201 of the control system 20 receives the read instruction, and can accept the read instruction.

[0144] Then, the display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S405). If the screen is not to be displayed (step S405: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S405.

[0145] If the screen is to be displayed (step S405: Yes), the display unit 212 displays the mode acceptance screen under the control of the display control unit 202 (step S406). Then, the operation acceptance unit 211 accepts the mode (step S407). Then, the operation acceptance unit 211 transmits the accepted mode (step S408) and returns. As a result, the terminal device 21 ends the processing before product registration and performs processing according to the accepted mode.

[0146] 20 and 21 are flowcharts showing an example of a specific processing procedure of the sequential confirmation mode processing (step S214) by the terminal device 21. The display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S411). If the screen is not to be displayed (step S411: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S411. If the screen is to be displayed (step S411: Yes), the display unit 212 displays a reading screen (step S412). The reading unit 213 determines whether the barcode has been read (step S413).

[0147] If the barcode has been read (step S413: Yes), the reading unit 213 transmits the product code represented by the barcode to the control system 20 (step S416).

[0148] If a barcode has not been read (step S413: No), the operation acceptance unit 211 determines whether the continuous scan mode has been accepted (step S414). In step S414, for example, the operation acceptance unit 211 accepts the continuous scan mode when a button that can switch to the continuous scan mode is tapped on the reading screen. If the continuous scan mode has not been accepted (step S414: No), the operation acceptance unit 211 returns to step S413.

[0149] If the continuous scan mode has been accepted (step S414: Yes), the operation accepting unit 211 transmits the accepted mode (step S415), and the process proceeds to step S213, whereby the continuous scan mode process is performed.

[0150] After step S415, the display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S417). If the screen is not to be displayed (step S417: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S417. If the screen is to be displayed (step S417: Yes), the display unit 212 displays a list screen according to the control of the display control unit 202 (step S418).

[0151] The operation acceptance unit 211 determines whether a read instruction has been accepted (step S419). For example, it is assumed that the operation acceptance unit 211 accepts a read instruction when the "add product" button is tapped on the list screen. If a read instruction has been accepted (step S419: Yes), the operation acceptance unit 211 transmits the read instruction (step S420). After step S420, the display unit 212 returns to step S411. This causes the terminal device 21 to switch from displaying the list screen to displaying the read screen.

[0152] On the other hand, if a read instruction has not been received (step S419: No), the operation receiving unit 211 determines whether a payment instruction has been received (step S421). If a payment instruction has not been received (step S421: No), the operation receiving unit 211 returns to step S419.

[0153] If a payment instruction is accepted (step S421: Yes), the operation accepting unit 211 transmits the payment instruction (step S422).

[0154] Following step S422, the display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S423). If the screen is not to be displayed (step S423: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S417. If the screen is to be displayed (step S423: Yes), the display unit 212 displays the settlement information according to the control of the display control unit 202 (step S424). The operation acceptance unit 211 determines whether a payment instruction has been accepted (step S425). For example, when a button for confirming the payment, such as "Pay" or "Confirm," displayed on the screen including the settlement information, is tapped, the operation acceptance unit 211 determines that the payment instruction has been accepted.

[0155] If a payment instruction has been received (step S425: No), the operation reception unit 211 returns to step S425. If a payment instruction has been received (step S425: Yes), the operation reception unit 211 transmits the payment instruction (step S426) and returns. This causes the terminal device 21 to end the series of processes.

[0156] 22 and 23 are flowcharts showing an example of a specific processing procedure of the continuous scan mode processing (step S213) by the terminal device 21. The display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S431). If a screen is not to be displayed (step S431: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S431. If a screen is to be displayed (step S431: Yes), the display unit 212 displays a reading screen (step S432). Next, the reading unit 213 determines whether a barcode has been read (step S433).

[0157] If the barcode has been read (step S433: Yes), the reading unit 213 transmits the product code represented by the barcode to the control system 20 (step S434), and returns to step S431. This allows a new reading screen to be displayed. Note that after step S434, the process may return to step S433. This causes the same reading screen to remain displayed.

[0158] If a barcode has not been read (step S433: No), the operation acceptance unit 211 determines whether the sequential confirmation mode has been accepted (step S435). In step S435, for example, the operation acceptance unit 211 assumes that the sequential confirmation mode has been accepted when a button that can be switched to the sequential confirmation mode is tapped on the reading screen. If the sequential confirmation mode has been accepted (step S435: Yes), the operation acceptance unit 211 transmits the mode (step S436) and proceeds to step S214. This causes the processing of the sequential confirmation mode to be performed.

[0159] If the sequential confirmation mode has not been accepted (step S435: No), the operation accepting unit 211 determines whether an instruction to display a list has been accepted (step S437). If an instruction to display a list has not been accepted (step S437: No), the reading unit 213 returns to step S433. If an instruction to display a list has been accepted (step S437: Yes), the operation accepting unit 211 transmits an instruction to display a list to the control system 20 (step S438).

[0160] Then, the display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S439). If the screen is not to be displayed (step S439: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S439. If the screen is to be displayed (step S439: Yes), the display unit 212 displays a list screen (step S440).

[0161] The operation acceptance unit 211 determines whether a read instruction has been accepted (step S441). For example, it is assumed that the operation acceptance unit 211 accepts a read instruction when the "add product" button is tapped on the list screen. If a read instruction has been accepted (step S441: Yes), the operation acceptance unit 211 transmits the read instruction (step S442). After step S442, the display unit 212 returns to step S431. This causes the terminal device 21 to switch from displaying the list screen to displaying the read screen.

[0162] If a read instruction has not been received (step S441: No), the operation receiving unit 211 determines whether a payment instruction has been received (step S443). If a payment instruction has not been received (step S443: No), the operation receiving unit 211 returns to step S441.

[0163] If a payment instruction is accepted (step S443: Yes), the operation accepting unit 211 transmits the payment instruction (step S444).

[0164] Following step S444, the display unit 212 determines whether to display a new screen (step S445). If the screen is not to be displayed (step S445: No), the display unit 212 returns to step S417. If the screen is to be displayed (step S445: Yes), the display unit 212 displays the settlement information according to the control of the display control unit 202 (step S446). The operation reception unit 211 determines whether a payment instruction has been received (step S447).

[0165] If a payment instruction has been received (step S447: No), the operation reception unit 211 returns to step S447. If a payment instruction has been received (step S447: Yes), the operation reception unit 211 transmits the payment instruction (step S448) and returns. This causes the terminal device 21 to end the series of processes.

[0166] <Example of the process to determine whether something is suspicious> Next, an example of the operation of the control system 20 in the continuous scan mode to determine whether a certain item is suspicious will be described. Here, an example of the operation of each determination method will be described. Also, an example will be described in which, if a certain item is determined to be suspicious in the continuous scan mode, the mode is switched to the sequential confirmation mode.

[0167] 24 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of processing example 1 for determining whether an item is suspicious by the control system 20. Processing example 1 is a determination example 1 for determining whether an item is suspicious depending on the number of digits of the product code.

[0168] For example, when a product code is received (step S332: Yes), the determining unit 204 determines whether the number of digits in the product code is a specified number of digits (step S501).

[0169] If the number of digits is not the specified number (step S501: No), the determination unit 204 counts the number of times it has been determined that the number of digits in the read product code is not the specified number of digits (step S503). Next, the determination unit 204 determines whether this number is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (step S504). Here, if this number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the determination unit 204 determines that the code is suspicious. If the number is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number (step S504: No), the registration unit 203 returns to step S332.

[0170] If the number of times is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (step S504: Yes), the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires location information of the customer (step S505). In step S505, the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires location information of the terminal device 21 as location information of the customer by using a beacon device 22 or the like to measure the position of the terminal device 21. Next, the notification unit 207 notifies the store clerk of the location information of the customer and information indicating that the customer is suspicious (step S506). In step S506, for example, the notification unit 207 notifies the store clerk's terminal device.

[0171] Then, the mode receiving unit 201 records the sequential confirmation mode as the mode (step S507), and proceeds to step S204, whereby the mode is switched to the sequential confirmation mode.

[0172] On the other hand, if the number of digits is the specified number (step S501: Yes), the determination unit 204 resets the counted number (step S502), and the process returns to step S333.

[0173] 25 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of a second processing example for determining whether a document is suspicious by the control system 20. The second processing example is a second determination example for determining whether a document is suspicious based on whether the reading time is short.

[0174] For example, when a product code is received (step S332: Yes), the determining unit 204 determines whether the reading time is equal to or less than a predetermined time (step S511).

[0175] If the reading time is equal to or shorter than the predetermined time (step S511: Yes), the determination unit 204 counts the number of times the reading time is short (step S513). The determination unit 204 determines whether this number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (step S514). Here, if this number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the determination unit 204 determines that the document is suspicious.

[0176] If the number of times is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (step S514: Yes), the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires location information of the customer (step S515). In step S515, the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires location information of the terminal device 21 as location information of the customer by using a beacon device 22 or the like to measure the position of the terminal device 21. Next, the notification unit 207 notifies the store clerk of the location information of the customer and information indicating that the customer is suspicious (step S516). In step S516, for example, the notification unit 207 notifies the store clerk's terminal device.

[0177] Then, the mode receiving unit 201 records the sequential confirmation mode as the mode in the setting mode 2004 (step S517), and proceeds to step S204, whereby the mode is switched to the sequential confirmation mode.

[0178] If the reading time is not equal to or shorter than the predetermined time (step S511: No), the determination unit 204 resets the counted number of times (step S512) and returns to step S333. If the count is not equal to or longer than the predetermined number of times (step S514: No), the process returns to step S333.

[0179] 26 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of processing example 3 by the control system 20 to determine whether something is suspicious. Processing example 3 is a determination example 3 in which whether something is suspicious is determined based on whether there has been no reading for a predetermined time. If the list is not displayed (step S336: No), the determination unit 204 determines whether there has been reading within a predetermined time (step S521). Here, if there has been no reading for a predetermined time, the determination unit 204 determines that something is suspicious.

[0180] On the other hand, if there is no reading for a predetermined time (step S521: No), the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires the location information of the customer (step S522). In step S522, the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires the location information of the terminal device 21 as the location information of the customer by using a beacon device 22 or the like to measure the position of the terminal device 21. Next, the notification unit 207 notifies the store clerk of the location information of the customer and information indicating that the customer is suspicious (step S523). In step S523, for example, the notification unit 207 notifies the store clerk's terminal device.

[0181] Then, the mode receiving unit 201 records the sequential confirmation mode as the mode (step S524), and proceeds to step S204, whereby the mode is switched to the sequential confirmation mode.

[0182] On the other hand, if the reading has occurred within the predetermined time (step S521: Yes), the registration unit 203 proceeds to step S332.

[0183] Note that step S521 may be started after the sequential confirmation mode signal has not been received (step S334: No). When step S521 is performed after the sequential confirmation mode signal has not been received (step S334: No), if the answer is No in step S521, the process may proceed to step S336. When step S521 is performed after the product code has not been received (step S332: No), the process may proceed to step S334 if the answer is No in step S521.

[0184] 27 is a flowchart showing an example of a specific processing procedure of processing example 4 for determining whether an object is suspicious by the control system 20. Following step S331, the determination unit 204 determines whether an object has passed within the angle of view of the imaging device of the terminal device 21 a predetermined number of times or more within a predetermined time period (step S531). If an object has passed within the predetermined number of times or more within the predetermined time period, the determination unit 204 determines that an object is suspicious.

[0185] If an object has not passed within the angle of view of the imaging device a predetermined number of times or more within a predetermined time period (step S531: No), the registration unit 203 proceeds to step S332.

[0186] On the other hand, if an object has passed within the angle of view of the imaging device a predetermined number of times or more within a predetermined time period (step S531: Yes), the location information acquisition unit 205 acquires location information of the customer (step S532). Then, in step S522, the notification unit 207 acquires location information of the terminal device 21 as location information of the customer by measuring the position of the terminal device 21 using a beacon device 22 or the like. Next, the notification unit 207 notifies a store clerk of the location information of the customer and information indicating that the customer is suspicious (step S533). In step S533, for example, the notification unit 207 notifies the terminal device of the store clerk.

[0187] Then, the mode receiving unit 201 records the sequential confirmation mode as the mode (step S534), and proceeds to step S204, whereby the mode is switched to the sequential confirmation mode.

[0188] As described above, in the second embodiment, in the continuous scan mode, the control system 20 displays the list screen when it receives a list display instruction on the reading screen, and displays the reading screen when it receives a reading instruction on the list screen. In this way, even in a mode that allows continuous scanning, the customer can check the list at their desired timing. This improves the convenience of the customer when shopping.

[0189] In continuous scan mode, when a product code is read, the control system 20 displays information about the product identified by the read product code on the reading screen. This allows the customer to check the name and price of the product identified by the newly read product code. This improves customer convenience when shopping.

[0190] The control system 20 accepts the mode before product registration begins. This allows the customer to select a mode according to their preference before starting scan shopping. This improves convenience for customers when shopping.

[0191] The control system 20 accepts the continuous scan mode while the reading screen is displayed in the sequential confirmation mode, allowing the customer to easily switch from the sequential confirmation mode to the continuous scan mode.

[0192] The control system 20 accepts the sequential confirmation mode while the reading screen is displayed in the continuous scan mode. This allows the customer to easily switch from the continuous scan mode to the sequential confirmation mode. This improves convenience for customers when shopping.

[0193] In the continuous scan mode, the control system 20 determines whether a customer's behavior is suspicious when the reading screen is displayed on the terminal device 21. Specifically, for example, as an example of determining whether a customer's behavior is suspicious, the control system 20 may determine whether a newly read product code has a predetermined number of digits. Alternatively, as another example of determining whether a customer's behavior is suspicious, the control system 20 may determine whether a newly read product code does not have the predetermined number of digits a predetermined number of times in a row. Alternatively, as another example of determining whether a customer's behavior is suspicious, the control system 20 may determine whether a customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the time required to read a new product code is within a predetermined time. Alternatively, as another example of determining whether a customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether a new product code is read for a predetermined time or longer. Alternatively, as another example of determining whether a customer's behavior is suspicious, when the terminal device 21 reads a product code by capturing an image of the product code with an imaging device, the control system 20 determines whether a customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the imaging device confirms the passage of an object. This makes it possible to monitor suspicious customer behavior during scan shopping.

[0194] Furthermore, the control system 20 switches to the sequential confirmation mode when it is determined that the customer's behavior is suspicious. By switching to the sequential confirmation mode in this way, it is possible to deter suspicious behavior.

[0195] Furthermore, when the control system 20 determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious, it notifies the store clerk that the customer's behavior is suspicious. When notifying the store clerk, the control system 20 notifies the store clerk that the customer's behavior is suspicious along with the customer's location information. This allows the store clerk to easily identify customers who are behaving suspiciously.

[0196] The second embodiment is not limited to the above-described example, and may be modified and used. Modifications are shown below.

[0197] <Variation 1> For example, the product code is not limited to being read from a barcode attached to the product, but may be read by the RFID reader of the terminal device 21 from an RFID attached to the product.

[0198] <Variation 2> In the second embodiment, the example of determining whether a transaction is suspicious is given in the continuous scan mode, but this is not particularly limited. For example, the determination of whether a transaction is suspicious may be performed in the sequential confirmation mode or in general scan shopping. For example, if a transaction is determined to be suspicious in the sequential confirmation mode, the display control unit 202 may display a warning or question to the customer on the reading screen.

[0199] <Variation 3> In the second embodiment, an example was described in which a button for issuing a payment instruction, such as a "Pay" button, was included on the list screen, but this is not limiting and such a button may be included on the reading screen. Alternatively, if no reading is performed on the reading screen for a predetermined time, the display control unit 202 may superimpose a screen including this button on the reading screen.

[0200] This concludes the description of the embodiments and their modifications. Note that the embodiments and their modifications may be used in combination.

[0201] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above and can be modified in various ways. Furthermore, the configuration of the control system in each embodiment is not particularly limited. The control system may be implemented by a single device, or by different devices for different information or functions. For example, a single terminal device may include at least some of the functional units of the control system 20 described in the second embodiment. The single terminal device here may be, for example, a customer terminal device 21. For example, the customer terminal device 21 may have a functional unit related to a specific application program. For example, the terminal device 21 may include a mode acceptance unit 201, a display control unit 202, a registration unit 203, a determination unit 204, a location information acquisition unit 205, and a notification unit 207, and the server may include a payment unit 206. Furthermore, the functional units included in the terminal device 21 are not limited to this example.

[0202] The control system may also be composed of several servers. For example, functional units that control the display of the terminal device, such as the display control unit, may be composed of an application server, functions such as the registration unit may be composed of a POS server, and the DB may be composed of a database server. Also, the determination unit 204 may be composed of the customer's terminal device 21, and the other functional units may be realized by a server.

[0203] Furthermore, the various information and DBs may be stored in the storage means of a single device such as a database server, or may be distributed and stored in multiple different devices. Thus, the various information and DBs may be acquired from other devices via a communication network or the like, or may be stored in the storage means of the control system in each embodiment.

[0204] Furthermore, the control system in each embodiment may be configured to have only some of the functional units.

[0205] Furthermore, between devices such as the terminal devices and control systems described in the embodiments and modifications, the subject of transmission and reception may be the information itself or an identifier representing the information.

[0206] In each embodiment and modification, each piece of information may include part of the information described above. Furthermore, each piece of information or DB may include information other than the information described above. Each piece of information or DB may be divided into multiple pieces of information in more detail. In this way, the method for realizing each piece of information or DB is not particularly limited.

[0207] Furthermore, the position, color, and size of each item, such as a button, input field, or display field, on each screen are not particularly limited. Buttons, information display fields, input fields, and the like (not shown) may be added to each screen. Furthermore, the background color of the screen may be changed.

[0208] For example, in each embodiment, the process of generating screen information to be displayed on the display device of the customer's terminal device may be performed by the control system or by the customer's terminal device.

[0209] (Computer equipment) Next, an example of a hardware configuration in which each device, such as the control system and terminal device described in each embodiment, is realized by a computer device will be described. Fig. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer device. For example, some or all of each device can be realized using any combination of a computer device 80 and a program as shown in Fig. 28.

[0210] The computer device 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803, a storage device 804, a communication interface 805, and an input / output interface 806. Each component is connected to the other via a bus 807.

[0211] The processor 801 controls the entire computer device 80. Examples of the processor 801 include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). There may be multiple processors 801. The computer device 80 has a ROM 802, a RAM 803, and a storage device 804 as storage units. Examples of the storage device 804 include a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), and a solid state drive (SSD). For example, the storage device 804 stores an operating system (OS) program, application programs, and programs according to the embodiments. Alternatively, the ROM 802 stores application programs and programs according to the embodiments. The RAM 803 is used as a work area for the processor 801.

[0212] The processor 801 also loads programs stored in the storage device 804, ROM 802, etc. The processor 801 then executes each process or instruction coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via the communications network NT. The processor 801 also functions as a part or all of the computer device 80. The processor 801 may then execute the processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0213] The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network) via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network NT may be configured with multiple communication networks. As a result, the computer device 80 is connected to external devices and external computer devices 80 via the communication network NT. The communication interface 805 serves as an interface between the communication network NT and the inside of the computer device 80. The communication interface 805 also controls the input and output of data from external devices and external computer devices.

[0214] Furthermore, the input / output interface 806 is connected to at least one of an input device, an output device, and an input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of the input device include a keyboard, a mouse, and a microphone. Examples of the output device include a display device, a lighting device, and a speaker that is an audio output device that outputs audio. Examples of the input / output device include a touch panel display. Note that the input device, output device, and input / output device may be built into the computer device 80 or may be external.

[0215] The hardware configuration of the computer device 80 is an example. The computer device 80 may have some of the components shown in FIG. 28 . The computer device 80 may have components other than those shown in FIG. 28 . For example, the computer device 80 may have a drive device or the like. The processor 801 may then read programs and data stored on a recording medium attached to the drive device or the like into the RAM 803. Examples of non-transitory tangible recording media include optical disks, flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories. As described above, the computer device 80 may have input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The computer device 80 may have an output device such as a display. The computer device 80 may also have an input device, an output device, and an input / output device. The computer device 80 may also have an imaging device or various reading devices.

[0216] The computer device 80 may have various sensors (not shown). The type of sensor is not particularly limited. Examples of the sensor include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, etc. Examples of the sensor include a fingerprint sensor, a LiDAR (Light, Detection and Ranging), a proximity sensor, and an ambient light sensor.

[0217] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. There are various variations in the implementation of each device. For example, the control system may be implemented by any combination of different computer devices and programs for each component. Furthermore, multiple components included in each device may be implemented by any combination of a single computer device and program.

[0218] Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be realized by circuits for specific applications. Furthermore, some or all of the control system may be realized by general-purpose circuits including a processor such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Furthermore, some or all of the control system may be realized by a combination of circuits for specific applications and general-purpose circuits. Furthermore, these circuits may be a single integrated circuit. Alternatively, these circuits may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. Furthermore, the multiple integrated circuits may be configured by being connected via a bus or the like.

[0219] Furthermore, when some or all of the components of each device are realized by multiple computer devices, circuits, etc., the multiple computer devices, circuits, etc. may be centrally located or distributed.

[0220] The control method described in each embodiment is realized by execution by a control system. Furthermore, the control method is realized by execution of a prepared program by a computer device such as a terminal device or a server. The program described in each embodiment is recorded on a recording medium readable by a computer device, such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, flexible disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. The program is then executed by the computer device by being read from the recording medium. Furthermore, the program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

[0221] The functions of each of the components of the control system in each embodiment described above may be realized by hardware, such as a computer device, or may be realized by a computer device or firmware based on program control.

[0222] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to various embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments. The configuration and details of each of the present disclosures may include embodiments to which various modifications that would be apparent to those skilled in the art are applied within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may also include embodiments in which the details described herein are appropriately combined or substituted as necessary. For example, details described using a particular embodiment may also be applied to other embodiments to the extent that no contradiction occurs. For example, although multiple operations are described in sequence in the form of a flowchart, the order of the descriptions does not limit the order in which the multiple operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing each embodiment, the order of the multiple operations may be changed as long as it does not interfere with the content.

[0223] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as follows: However, some or all of the above-described embodiments are not limited to the following.

[0224] (Appendix 1) A control system for controlling a screen to be displayed on a terminal device, a registering means for registering the product represented by the identification information in a list when the identification information is read on a reading screen that can read the product identification information by a customer's operation on the terminal device; a mode accepting means for accepting one of a sequential confirmation mode in which a list screen of the list is displayed when the identification information is read, and a continuous mode in which the reading screen is displayed when the identification information is read; a display control means for causing the terminal device to display a screen corresponding to the received mode; A control system comprising: (Appendix 2) the display control means, in the continuous mode, causes the list screen to be displayed when an instruction to display the list is received on the reading screen, and causes the reading screen to be displayed when a reading instruction is received on the list screen. 10. The control system of claim 1. (Appendix 3) When the identification information is read in the continuous mode, the display control means displays information about the product identified by the read identification information on the reading screen. 3. The control system of claim 1 or 2. (Appendix 4) the mode accepting means accepts the mode through an operation by the customer; 4. The control system of any one of claims 1 to 3. (Appendix 5) The mode receiving means receives the mode before product registration starts. 10. The control system of claim 4. (Appendix 6) the mode accepting means accepts the continuous mode while the reading screen is being displayed in the sequential confirmation mode. 10. The control system of claim 4. (Appendix 7) the mode accepting means accepts the sequential confirmation mode while the reading screen is being displayed in the continuous mode. 10. The control system of claim 4. (Appendix 8) a determination means for determining whether the customer's behavior is suspicious when the reading screen is displayed on the terminal device in the continuous mode; Equipped with the mode acceptance means accepts the sequential confirmation mode when the customer's behavior is determined to be suspicious in the continuous mode. 8. The control system of any one of claims 1 to 7. (Appendix 9) a determination means for determining whether the customer's behavior is suspicious when the reading screen is displayed on the terminal device in the continuous mode; a notification means for notifying a store clerk that the customer's behavior is suspicious when the customer's behavior is determined to be suspicious in the continuous mode; 8. The control system of any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: (Appendix 10) a location information acquisition means for acquiring location information of the customer when the customer's behavior is determined to be suspicious; Equipped with The notification means notifies the store clerk of the acquired location information and that the customer's behavior is suspicious. 10. The control system of claim 9. (Appendix 11) the identification information is a code, The determination means determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the newly read code has a predetermined number of digits. 11. The control system of any one of claims 8 to 10. (Appendix 12) The determination means determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the newly read code is determined to have an incorrect number of digits a predetermined number of times in succession. 12. The control system of claim 11. (Appendix 13) the determination means determines whether the behavior of the customer is suspicious based on whether the time required to newly read the identification information is within a predetermined time. 11. The control system of any one of claims 8 to 10. (Appendix 14) the determination means determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the new identification information is read for a predetermined period of time or more. 11. The control system of any one of claims 8 to 10. (Appendix 15) When the identification information is read by capturing an image of the identification information using an imaging device in the terminal device, the determination means determines whether the customer's behavior is suspicious based on whether the image capture device has confirmed the passage of an object. 11. The control system of any one of claims 8 to 10. (Appendix 16) the reading screen corresponding to the received mode includes information indicating the received mode; 16. The control system of any one of claims 1 to 15. (Appendix 17) A control method for controlling a screen to be displayed on a terminal device, comprising: When the customer operates the terminal device to read product identification information on a reading screen that can read the product identification information, the product represented by the identification information is registered in a list; when the customer operates the terminal device to read the product identification information, the product is registered in a list that includes the product identification information; and when the customer operates the terminal device to read the product identification information, the product is registered in a list that includes the product identification information. When ... displaying a screen corresponding to the accepted mode on the terminal device; Control method. (Appendix 18) A computer that controls the screen displayed on the terminal device When the customer operates the terminal device to read product identification information on a reading screen that can read the product identification information, the product represented by the identification information is registered in a list; when the customer operates the terminal device to read the product identification information, the product is registered in a list that includes the product identification information; and when the customer operates the terminal device to read the product identification information, the product is registered in a list that includes the product identification information. When ... displaying a screen corresponding to the accepted mode on the terminal device; A non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer that records a program for executing processing. (Appendix 19) A computer that controls the screen displayed on the terminal device When the customer operates the terminal device to read product identification information on a reading screen that can read the product identification information, the product represented by the identification information is registered in a list; when the customer operates the terminal device to read the product identification information, the product is registered in a list that includes the product identification information; and when the customer operates the terminal device to read the product identification information, the product is registered in a list that includes the product identification information. When ... displaying a screen corresponding to the accepted mode on the terminal device; When the identification information is newly read on the reading screen, the identification information is registered in the list. A program that executes a process. [Explanation of symbols]

[0225] 10,20 Control System 21 Terminal equipment 22 Equipment 80 Computer equipment 101,201 Mode reception section 102,202 Display control unit 103,203 Registration Department 204 Judgment section 205 Location information acquisition unit 206 Payment Department 207 Information Department 211 Operation reception section 212 Display section 213 Reading unit 801 processor 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 Storage device 805 Communication Interface 806 Input / Output Interface 807 Bus d001 screen d101 Reading screen d102 List screen d103 Reading screen d201 Reading screen d202 List screen d203 Reading screen d204 Reading screen d301 reading screen d302 Reading screen d401 screen 2001 Product DB 2002 List DB 2003 Customer DB 2004 Setting Mode NT Communications Network

Claims

1. A control system for controlling a screen to be displayed on a terminal device, a transmitting means for transmitting information about the product represented by the identification information to a server device when the identification information is read on a reading screen that can read the product identification information by a customer's operation on the terminal device; a mode accepting means for accepting one of a sequential confirmation mode in which a list of information about the product is displayed when the identification information is read, and a continuous mode in which the reading screen is displayed when the identification information is read; a display control means for causing the terminal device to display a screen corresponding to the received mode; Equipped with Control system.

2. the mode receiving means receives the mode at least one of before product registration starts and during product registration; The control system of claim 1 .

3. the display control means displays a button for receiving an instruction to register a commodity on the reading screen in the sequential confirmation mode.

3. A control system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the display control means, in the continuous mode, causes the display control means to display the list screen when an instruction to display the list is received on the reading screen, and causes the display control means to display the reading screen when an instruction to read is received on the list screen. A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. When the identification information is read in the continuous mode, the display control means displays information about the product identified by the read identification information on the reading screen. A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the mode accepting means accepts the mode through an operation by the customer; A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The mode receiving means receives the mode before product registration begins. The control system of claim 6.

8. the mode accepting means accepts the continuous mode while the reading screen is being displayed in the sequential confirmation mode. The control system of claim 6.

9. the mode accepting means accepts the sequential confirmation mode while the reading screen is being displayed in the continuous mode. The control system of claim 6.

10. a determination means for determining whether the customer's behavior is suspicious when the reading screen is displayed on the terminal device in the continuous mode; Equipped with The determination means determines that the customer's behavior is suspicious if no new product identification information is read for a predetermined period of time or longer, the mode acceptance means switches to the sequential confirmation mode when the customer's behavior is determined to be suspicious in the continuous mode; the display control means causes the terminal device to display a screen corresponding to the sequential confirmation mode instead of a screen corresponding to the continuous mode in response to the switching by the mode acceptance means; A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A control method in which a computer controls a screen to be displayed on a terminal device, comprising: The computer When the customer operates the terminal device to read the identification information of a commodity on a read screen capable of reading the identification information of the commodity, the customer transmits information about the commodity represented by the identification information to a server device; accepting one of a sequential confirmation mode in which a list of information about the product is displayed when the identification information is read, and a continuous mode in which the reading screen is displayed when the identification information is read; displaying a screen corresponding to the accepted mode on the terminal device; Execute the process, Control method.

12. A computer that controls the screen displayed on the terminal device When the customer operates the terminal device to read the identification information of a commodity on a read screen capable of reading the identification information of the commodity, the customer transmits information about the commodity represented by the identification information to a server device; accepting one of a sequential confirmation mode in which a list of information about the product is displayed when the identification information is read, and a continuous mode in which the reading screen is displayed when the identification information is read; displaying a screen corresponding to the accepted mode on the terminal device; Execute the process, program.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Commodity sales data processing system, portable terminal device, and computer

    JP2021128363A