Information processing device and information processing program

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of efficiently reflecting the presence or absence of tax exemption procedures. [Solution] The information processing device includes a communications processing unit and a tax exemption processing unit. The communications processing unit outputs an inquiry request to inquire about transactions for which tax exemption procedures have been performed and receives a response to the inquiry request. The tax exemption processing unit obtains transaction identification information that can identify transactions for which tax exemption procedures have been performed based on the response, and updates the transaction information of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax exempt state.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing device and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] When non-residents, such as foreign visitors to Japan, purchase souvenirs or other products in Japan and return to their home countries, they can go through a tax exemption procedure at the airport or other location to receive a refund of the exemption amount, such as consumption tax, on the products purchased at the time of departure.

[0003] When a product is purchased at a store, the sales information managed by the store is managed in a taxable state. Even if the tax-free procedure is completed upon departure from the country, if the tax-free procedure is not reflected in the sales information, there may be a discrepancy with the actual tax or tax-free status, which may cause problems with tax reporting and data compilation.

[0004] In such cases, manual changes were required to reflect the tax exemption procedures in the sales information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6594260 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for technology that can efficiently reflect whether or not tax exemption procedures have been completed.

[0007] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that can efficiently reflect the presence or absence of tax exemption procedures. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one embodiment, the information processing device includes a communication processing unit and a tax exemption processing unit. The communication processing unit outputs an inquiry request for inquiring about transactions for which tax exemption procedures have been performed and obtains a response to the inquiry request. The tax exemption processing unit obtains transaction identification information that can identify transactions for which tax exemption procedures have been performed based on the response, and updates transaction information for the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax exempt state. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an in-store device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a query request according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a response according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of transaction information before updating according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of updated transaction information according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of pre-update transaction information according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display of updated transaction information according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the procedure of information processing related to product registration in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the procedure of information processing related to the tax exemption processing of the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 13]FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of information processing related to the display of transaction information according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of each part in each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may be changed as appropriate. Also, for the sake of explanation, each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may omit components.

[0011] The following explanation will be given using an example of a store that sells goods. The store is assumed to be a physical store. The store is assumed to be a duty-free store that sells goods to non-residents. The goods are tangible goods. The store may be a store that primarily sells tangible goods, or a store that primarily sells the provision of services. The goods or services are assumed to be tax-exempt goods or tax-exempt services. Note that duty-free stores are not limited to stores that sell goods only to non-residents, but also include stores that sell goods to both non-residents and residents.

[0012] A product transaction is the transfer of money from a customer to a store in connection with the sale of a product by the store. From the store's perspective, the transaction involves the sale of a product. From the customer's perspective, the transaction involves the purchase of a product.

[0013] For example, a store is operated by a business operator. The business operator may be of any type. For example, a business operator may operate multiple stores. The term "business operator" refers not only to the business operator itself, but also to a group of businesses. A group of businesses is a group that operates stores recognized as a group. For example, a group of businesses is a group that operates stores using the same name. A group of businesses may also include franchisees in which the business operator is involved as a franchisor.

[0014] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system S. The information processing system S includes a POS terminal 1, a server 2, and in-store devices 3. The POS terminal 1, the server 2, and the in-store devices 3 are communicably connected to one another via a network NA. For example, the network NA is configured from one or more networks selected from various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN. The one or more networks may include a wireless network or a wired network.

[0015] 1 shows an example in which the information processing system S includes one POS terminal 1, but the information processing system S may include multiple POS terminals including the POS terminal 1. The configuration of the multiple POS terminals may be the same as the configuration of the POS terminal 1.

[0016] The POS terminal 1 is a device that processes transactions at the duty-free shop X. The POS terminal 1 is mainly used by a clerk at the duty-free shop X. The clerk at the duty-free shop X may be read as a clerk, a user, or a person. The clerk at the duty-free shop X is an example of a user of the POS terminal 1. For example, the POS terminal 1 has a product registration function. The POS terminal 1 processes the registration of one or more products that are the subject of a transaction using the product registration function. The POS terminal 1 is an example of an information processing device.

[0017] Hereinafter, product registration is also referred to as product registration. Products that are the subject of a transaction are also referred to as transaction target products. Product registration is the act of registering a product as a transaction target product. For example, product registration includes adding data related to the transaction target products to data related to the transaction. The transaction target data may include data related to the transaction target products for each transaction target product. The data related to the transaction is hereinafter referred to as transaction information. The data related to the transaction target products is data about the details of the transaction target products. The data related to the transaction target products is also referred to as transaction target product data. The transaction target product data is an example of product information about the transaction target products.

[0018] The data on the products to be traded includes all or part of the product code of the product to be traded, the name of the product to be traded, the price of the product to be traded, the number of units of the product to be traded, and the monetary amount of the product to be traded. Information on the products to be traded may include information other than these. The product code of the product to be traded is identification information that can uniquely identify the product to be traded. The name of the product to be traded is the product name, etc. of the product to be traded. The price of the product to be traded is the price per unit of the product to be traded. The number of units of the product to be traded is the number of products to be traded included in one transaction. The monetary amount of the product to be traded is the total price of the number of units of the product to be traded.

[0019] The transaction item data may include the type of the transaction item. The type of the transaction item is information indicating whether the transaction item is a tax-exempt item. The type of the transaction item may include information indicating the type of tax-exempt item. The type of tax-exempt item is, for example, general goods, consumables, etc. The transaction item data may include the amount of consumption tax on the transaction item. The amount of consumption tax on the transaction item is the amount of consumption tax per unit of the transaction item.

[0020] The transaction information may include duty-free shop identification information that can identify duty-free shop X. The duty-free shop identification information may be, for example, a duty-free shop ID or a duty-free shop name. The transaction information may also include a payment amount. The payment amount is the amount paid for the transaction using the payment method selected by the customer. The payment amount is the same as the invoice amount.

[0021] The transaction information is stored, for example, in a transaction management server that manages each transaction. The transaction management server may be a server different from server 2. The transaction management server may be a cloud server.

[0022] For example, the POS terminal 1 has a payment function. The POS terminal 1 processes the payment of a transaction based on transaction information using the payment function. Payment is payment for a transaction. Payment includes accounting. Completion of payment by the POS terminal 1 includes the conclusion of the transaction.

[0023] Payment methods for settling transactions include offline payment and online payment. Offline payment is payment that does not require the POS terminal 1 to cooperate with other devices via the network NA. For example, offline payment is payment using cash, gift certificates, etc. Online payment is payment that the POS terminal 1 executes in cooperation with other devices via the network NA. For example, online payment is credit card payment, electronic money payment, debit card payment, code payment, etc.

[0024] The server 2 is a device capable of communicating with the POS terminal 1 via the network NA. The server 2 may be a device capable of communicating with POS terminals installed in the duty-free shop X and multiple other shops. The server 2 is a device that stores various information. If the information processing system S includes multiple POS terminals, the server 2 is a device capable of communicating with multiple POS terminals, including the POS terminal 1, via the network NA. The server 2 may be, for example, a server of an administrative agency that manages customs. The server 2 may be a server of a relay company that relays between the administrative agency and the POS terminal 1. The server 2 may be a server of a store operator. If the server 2 is not a server of an administrative agency, the tax-free transaction information stored in the server 2, which will be described later, is sent to the server of the administrative agency. The server 2 may be a device capable of communicating with a device that performs tax-free procedures at an airport, etc. In the following explanation, the tax-free procedure refers to the procedure for refunding the tax-free amount.

[0025] The server 2 is a device that stores information required for transactions at the duty-free shop X. For example, the server 2 stores tax-free transaction information. The server 2 stores tax-free transaction information of customers. The server 2 stores tax-free transaction information of customers at the duty-free shop X and multiple other duty-free shops. The server 2 obtains the tax-free transaction information from the POS terminal 1 via the network NA, for example. The server 2 may obtain the tax-free transaction information from the in-store device 3.

[0026] Tax-free transaction information is data related to transactions by tax-free transaction eligible persons. Tax-free transaction information is also called transaction information of tax-free transaction eligible persons. Tax-free transaction information includes information such as transaction number, registered product information, and sales amount. The transaction number is a transaction number that can uniquely identify tax-free transaction information. Registered product information is transaction product data for the products included in one transaction. The sales amount is the total amount of the products included in one transaction.

[0027] The duty-free transaction information includes, for example, passport information. The passport information includes, for example, data such as name, nationality, date of birth, passport number, date of entry, date of departure, residence status, and purpose of travel. The passport number is information that can uniquely identify a customer. The passport number is an example of customer identification information.

[0028] A person eligible for tax-free transactions is, for example, a non-resident. A person eligible for tax-free transactions includes a customer who purchases a product that is eligible for tax-free transactions. A person eligible for tax-free transactions includes a customer who has undergone tax-free processing when registering a product at the POS terminal 1 or when processing a payment. The POS terminal 1 outputs tax-free transaction information to the server 2. The server 2 acquires the tax-free transaction information. The server 2 stores the tax-free transaction information.

[0029] Tax-exempt transaction information includes transaction status. Transaction status includes "taxable", which indicates the tax status of the transaction, and "tax-exempt", which indicates the tax-exempt status of the transaction. Taxable status indicates a transaction in which consumption tax is levied. Tax-exempt status indicates a transaction in which consumption tax is exempt. Transaction status may also include information indicating tax rate type, price for each tax rate type, and tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive type. For example, tax rate type indicates different tax rates when the tax rate varies depending on the type of product. Tax rate type is, for example, "tax rate 1" and "tax rate 2". Tax rate type may be "10%" or "8%". Price for each tax rate type indicates the price to which the tax rate for each tax rate type is applied. Tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive type is information indicating whether the price is tax-inclusive or tax-exclusive.

[0030] In the following description, the term "customer" may be replaced with "user," "consumer," or "person." The server 2 may be a server used in a cloud service. An example of the configuration of the server 2 will be described later.

[0031] The store device 3 is an electronic device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. The store device 3 is, for example, an electronic device used by a clerk at the duty-free shop X. For example, the store device 3 is a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The store device 3 acquires transaction information from the POS terminal 1 and manages the transaction information. The store device 3 acquires tax-free transaction information from the POS terminal 1 and manages the tax-free transaction information. The store device 3 may output the tax-free transaction information to the server 2. The term "user" may be interpreted as a customer or a person. The store device 3 is an example of an information processing device. An example configuration of the store device 3 will be described later.

[0032] The information processing system S may also refer to a system including at least two devices among the POS terminal 1, the server 2, and the store device 3. The device includes electronic devices.

[0033] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the POS terminal 1. As shown in FIG.

[0034] The POS terminal 1 includes a processing circuit 10, a main memory 11, an auxiliary storage device 12, a change machine interface 13, a communication interface 14, a scanner 15, an input device 16, a first display device 17-1, a second display device 17-2, a printing device 18, a card reader 19, and a passport reader 20. The main memory 11, the auxiliary storage device 12, the change machine interface 13, the communication interface 14, the scanner 15, the input device 16, the first display device 17-1, the second display device 17-2, the printing device 18, the card reader 19, and the passport reader 20 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 2, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0035] The processing circuit 10 corresponds to the central part of the POS terminal 1. The processing circuit 10 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 1. The processing circuit 10 includes one or more circuits that execute multiple processes based on multiple functions. For example, the circuit may be, but is not limited to, a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). For example, the processor may be, but is not limited to, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processing circuit 10 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program is a program that can cause the processing circuit 10 to execute processes by each means described below. The processing circuit 10 executes the program loaded into the main memory 11 to perform various processes.

[0036] The main memory 11 includes elements corresponding to the main storage portion of the POS terminal 1. The main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS terminal 1. The main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 11 stores an operating system or programs in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 10. For example, the main memory 11 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 11 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0037] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the POS terminal 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 includes one or more storage devices. The storage devices may be, but are not limited to, an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 10 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 10.

[0038] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a transaction information storage area 121. The transaction information storage area 121 stores transaction information. The transaction information storage area 121 can store transaction information for one or more transactions. The data in the transaction information storage area 121 is updated by adding, updating, or deleting transaction information. The transaction information is a collection of transaction information records generated for each customer. The transaction information includes transaction information for persons eligible for tax-exempt transactions (tax-exempt transaction information) and transaction information for persons not eligible for tax-exempt transactions. The transaction information includes information indicating the transaction number, registered product information, sales amount, and transaction status. The transaction information storage area 121 is an example of a storage unit of the POS terminal 1.

[0039] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a product master storage area 122. The product master storage area 122 stores a product master. The data in the product master storage area 122 is updated by adding, updating, or deleting the product master. The product master data includes various information about each product, such as the product code, price, and product name. The product master data may include information indicating the type of each product. The type may be set for each product, or for each type of product, or for each department. The type includes a type related to tax exemption. The tax exemption type may include information indicating whether the product is eligible for tax exemption. The tax exemption type may include the type of product eligible for tax exemption. The product master storage area 122 is an example of a storage unit of the POS terminal 1.

[0040] The change machine interface 13 inputs and outputs data signals to and from the automatic change machine. For example, the change machine interface 13 receives inserted amount data from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 13 outputs change amount data to the automatic change machine. The automatic change machine dispenses banknotes or coins equivalent to the change amount according to the change amount data.

[0041] The communication interface 14 includes various interfaces that connect the POS terminal 1 to other devices so that they can communicate with each other via the network NA in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0042] The scanner 15 is a device that reads various code symbols and acquires information from the code symbols. For example, the code symbols are barcode symbols or two-dimensional code symbols. The code symbols may include a code symbol of a product that records a product code. The code symbol of a product is an image attached to the product. The code symbol may include a code symbol that records a membership code. The scanner 15 may be a camera that can read barcode symbols, two-dimensional code symbols, etc.

[0043] The input device 16 is a device that can input information to the POS terminal 1. For example, the input device 16 may include a keyboard. The input device 16 may form a touch screen together with the first display device 17-1.

[0044] The first display device 17-1 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 10. The first display device 17-1 is a display device mainly for the store clerk to view. For example, the first display device 17-1 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (Electroluminescence) display. The first display device 17-1 is an example of a display unit.

[0045] The second display device 17-2 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 10. The second display device 17-2 is a display device primarily for customers to view. For example, the second display device 17-2 is a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The second display device 17-2 is an example of a display unit.

[0046] The printing device 18 is a device for issuing transaction details by printing on a medium. For example, the medium is paper. For example, the printing device 18 is a thermal printer or an inkjet printer. The transaction details are a medium showing the details of the transaction. The transaction details are described as being a receipt, but they may also be a receipt with a space for entering the recipient's name.

[0047] For example, the transaction details include information about the store where the transaction took place, information about the date and time of the transaction, and all or part of the information about the transaction. The transaction details may also include information other than these pieces of information. For example, the information about the store where the transaction took place includes the name of the store. The information about the store where the transaction took place may also include information other than this information. For example, the information about the date and time of the transaction includes the date and time of the transaction. The information about the date and time of the transaction may also include information other than this information.

[0048] The card reader 19 is a device that reads card data recorded on a card medium. The card reader 19 may include a contact reader that reads card data recorded on a magnetic stripe of the card medium. The card reader 19 may also include a contactless reader that reads card data recorded on an IC (Integrated Circuit) tag of the card medium. The IC tag includes an IC chip and an antenna.

[0049] The passport reader 20 is a device that reads data recorded on a passport. The passport reader 20 may be, for example, a device with an OCR (Optical Character Reader) function. The passport reader 20 may be a device with an image recognition function. The passport reader 20 may be a device that can read a barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. The passport reader 20 may be a device that can read an IC tag. The passport reader 20 acquires passport information.

[0050] The hardware configuration of the POS terminal 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and the POS terminal 1 allows the omission or modification of the above components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0051] Each unit realized by the processing circuit 10 will be described. The processing circuit 10 realizes a product registration processing unit 101, a tax exemption processing unit 102, a display processing unit 103, an output unit 104, a payment processing unit 105, and an issuing unit 106. Each unit realized by the processing circuit 10 can also be referred to as each function. Each unit realized by the processing circuit 10 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processing circuit 10 and main memory 11.

[0052] The product registration processing unit 101 processes the registration of one or more transaction items. The product registration processing unit 101 determines whether the registered transaction item is a tax-exempt item based on the product master data stored in the product master storage area 122. The product registration processing unit 101 may determine the type of the transaction item based on the product master data. The product registration processing unit 101 acquires transaction item data for the customer's transaction item. The product registration processing unit 101 saves transaction information including the transaction item data in the transaction information storage area 121. The product registration processing unit 101 may save information indicating whether the transaction item is a tax-exempt item and information indicating the type of the transaction item in the transaction information storage area 121 as transaction information.

[0053] The tax exemption processing unit 102 performs processes related to tax exemption. The processes related to tax exemption include processes for saving transaction information as transaction information of a person eligible for tax exemption. The processes related to tax exemption include processes for acquiring passport information. The processes related to tax exemption include processes for linking passport information to transaction information and saving it. The processes related to tax exemption include processes for linking information indicating that the transaction information is of a person eligible for tax exemption to transaction information and saving it. The processes related to tax exemption are also referred to as tax exemption processes. The tax exemption processing unit 102 acquires the customer's passport information. The tax exemption processing unit 102 may acquire the passport information based on an input operation via the input device 16, for example. The tax exemption processing unit 102 may acquire the passport information via the passport reader 20. The tax exemption processing unit 102 may acquire the passport information by reading a two-dimensional code for customs declaration, i.e., a QR code (registered trademark), etc., on which passport information is recorded. The QR code for customs declaration is an example of a passport information code. The QR code (two-dimensional code) may be, for example, an image attached to a paper medium or the like, or an image that can be displayed on a customer's user terminal. The tax exemption processing unit 102 may perform tax exemption processing based on acquiring a tax exemption processing start instruction. The tax exemption processing start instruction indicates a start instruction for starting tax exemption processing. The tax exemption processing start instruction may be a tax exemption declaration. The tax exemption declaration may be an instruction indicating that the customer is eligible for tax exempt transaction. In the following description, "acquire" may be read as "receive".

[0054] The display processing unit 103 displays a tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1. The tax exemption declaration inquiry image includes, for example, a message inquiring whether the customer wishes to perform the tax exemption process, an image of a "Yes" button for instructing the customer to perform the tax exemption process, and an image of a "No" button for instructing the customer not to perform the tax exemption process. The display processing unit 103 may display the tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the second display device 17-2. For example, the user of the POS terminal 1 inputs an instruction to start the tax exemption process by selecting the "Yes" button on the tax exemption declaration inquiry image by touch input or the like.

[0055] The output unit 104 outputs the tax-free transaction information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. The output unit 104 may also output the passport information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. The output unit 104 may also output the transaction information to the transaction management server via the communication interface 14. In the following description, "output" may be read as "send."

[0056] The settlement processing unit 105 processes the settlement of the transaction. The issuing unit 106 issues receipts.

[0057] An example of the configuration of the server 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a configuration example of the server 2 according to the embodiment.

[0058] The server 2 is a device including a processing circuit 21, a main memory 22, an auxiliary storage device 23, and a communication interface 24. The components constituting the server 2 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 3, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0059] The processing circuit 21 corresponds to the central part of the server 2. The processing circuit 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 2. The processing circuit 21 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned processing circuit 10. The processing circuit 21 executes programs that are pre-stored in the main memory 22 or the auxiliary storage device 23, thereby enabling various processes to be performed.

[0060] The main memory 22 includes elements corresponding to the main storage portion of the server 2. The main memory 22 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned main memory 11. The main memory 22 stores programs.

[0061] The auxiliary storage device 23 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the server 2. The auxiliary storage device 23 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned auxiliary storage device 12. The auxiliary storage device 23 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 21 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processing circuit 21.

[0062] The auxiliary storage device 23 includes a tax-free transaction information storage area 230. The tax-free transaction information storage area 230 stores tax-free transaction information. The tax-free transaction information storage area 230 is updated by adding, updating, or deleting tax-free transaction information. The tax-free transaction information is a collection of tax-free transaction information records generated for each customer. The tax-free transaction information storage area 230 is an example of a storage unit of the server 2.

[0063] The communication interface 24 includes various interfaces that communicatively connect the server 2 to other devices via the network NA in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. In Fig. 3, the interfaces are denoted as "I / F".

[0064] The hardware configuration of the server 2 is not limited to the above configuration, and the server 2 may appropriately omit or change the above components and add new components.

[0065] Each unit realized by the processing circuit 21 will be described below. The processing circuitry 21 realizes an acquisition unit 210 and an output unit 211. Each unit realized by the processing circuitry 21 can also be referred to as each function. Each unit realized by the processing circuitry 21 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processing circuitry 21 and the main memory 22.

[0066] The acquisition unit 210 acquires various information via the communication interface 24. The acquisition unit 210 acquires tax-free transaction information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24. The acquisition unit 210 may also acquire passport information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24.

[0067] The acquisition unit 210 acquires an inquiry request from the in-store device 3 via the communication interface 24. The inquiry request is a request to inquire about a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been carried out. A transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been carried out is a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been carried out at a device that carries out tax exemption procedures at an airport or the like. A transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been carried out is a transaction for which the transaction status in the transaction information has been changed from taxable to tax exempt.

[0068] The output unit 211 outputs various information via the communication interface 24. The output unit 211 outputs a response to the inquiry request to the in-store device 3 via the communication interface 24.

[0069] An example of the configuration of the in-store device 3 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a configuration example of the in-store device 3 according to the embodiment.

[0070] The in-store device 3 is a device including a processing circuit 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage device 33, a communication interface 34, an input device 35, and a display device 36. The components constituting the in-store device 3 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 4, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0071] The processing circuit 31 corresponds to the central part of the in-store device 3. The processing circuit 31 is an element that constitutes the computer of the in-store device 3. The processing circuit 31 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned processing circuit 10. The processing circuit 31 executes programs that are pre-stored in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33, thereby enabling various processes to be performed.

[0072] The main memory 32 includes elements corresponding to the main storage portion of the in-store device 3. The main memory 32 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned main memory 11. The main memory 32 stores programs.

[0073] The auxiliary storage device 33 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the in-store device 3. The auxiliary storage device 33 has the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned auxiliary storage device 12. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuitry 31 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processing circuitry 31.

[0074] The auxiliary storage device 33 includes a transaction information storage area 330. The transaction information storage area 330 stores transaction information. The transaction information storage area 330 is updated by adding, updating, or deleting transaction information. The transaction information is a collection of transaction information records generated for each customer. The transaction information includes transaction information for persons eligible for tax-exempt transactions (tax-exempt transaction information) and transaction information for persons not eligible for tax-exempt transactions. The transaction information includes information indicating the transaction number, registered product information, sales amount, and transaction status. The transaction information storage area 330 is an example of a storage unit of the in-store device 3.

[0075] The communication interface 34 includes various interfaces that connect the in-store device 3 to other devices via the network NA in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol so that the devices can communicate with each other. In FIG. 4, the interfaces are indicated as "I / F."

[0076] The input device 35 is a device that can input information to the in-store device 3. For example, the input device 35 may include a keyboard. The input device 35 may form a touch screen together with the display device 36.

[0077] The display device 36 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 31. The display device 36 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an EL display, etc. The display device 36 is an example of a display unit.

[0078] The hardware configuration of the in-store device 3 is not limited to the above-described configuration. The in-store device 3 allows the omission or modification of the above-described components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0079] Each unit realized by the processing circuit 31 will be described below. The processing circuitry 31 realizes a communication processing unit 310, a tax exemption processing unit 311, and a display processing unit 312. Each unit realized by the processing circuitry 31 can also be referred to as each function. Each unit realized by the processing circuitry 31 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processing circuitry 31 and the main memory 32.

[0080] The communication processing unit 310 acquires various information via the communication interface 34. The communication processing unit 310 outputs various information via the communication interface 34. The communication processing unit 310 acquires transaction information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 34. The communication processing unit 310 acquires tax-exempt transaction information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 34. The communication processing unit 310 outputs an inquiry request to the server 2 via the communication interface 34. In one example, the communication processing unit 310 outputs the inquiry request to the server 2 via the communication interface 34 based on the lapse of a predetermined time. In another example, the communication processing unit 310 outputs the inquiry request to the server 2 via the communication interface 34 based on a user operation. The communication processing unit 310 acquires a response to the inquiry request from the server 2 via the communication interface 34.

[0081] The communication processing unit 310 may acquire passport information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 34. The communication processing unit 310 may output the passport information to the server 2. The communication processing unit 310 may output tax-free transaction information to the server 2 via the communication interface 34.

[0082] The tax exemption processing unit 311 performs tax exemption processing. Based on the response to the inquiry request, the tax exemption processing unit 311 acquires transaction identification information that can identify transactions for which tax exemption procedures have been performed. Based on the transaction identification information, the tax exemption processing unit 311 extracts transactions that are subject to tax exemption processing. Transactions that are subject to tax exemption processing are called tax exemption eligible transactions. A tax exemption eligible transaction is a transaction of transaction information stored in the transaction information storage area 330, and is a transaction that corresponds to a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been performed. The tax exemption processing unit 311 performs tax exemption processing on tax exempt transactions.

[0083] The tax exemption process refers to updating the transaction information of a transaction that is the subject of the tax exemption process from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state. The tax exemption process includes changing the tax information in the transaction information to a state in which tax exemption is applied. The tax exemption process includes updating the transaction status of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information. Updating the transaction status includes changing the transaction status from "taxable" to "tax-exempt." For example, the tax exemption processing unit 311 updates the transaction status of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state. The tax exemption process includes applying tax exemption to items related to consumption tax in the transaction information. The tax exemption process includes changing the tax rate type to "0%." The tax exemption process includes changing the price for each tax rate type to a price to which no tax rate is applied. The tax exemption process includes changing the tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive type to "tax-exempt." The tax exemption process includes changing the consumption tax amount to "0 yen."

[0084] When the transaction status is updated by the tax exemption processing unit 311, the display processing unit 312 displays the updated transaction information on the display device 36. The display processing unit 312 may display the updated transaction information on the display device 36 in a display format that allows the updated transaction information to be distinguished from the transaction information of other transactions. For example, the display processing unit 312 may display the updated transaction information in a display format that differs from the transaction information of other transactions. The display format includes character color, size, font, enclosed character, character decoration such as brightness or luminance, background color, background brightness or luminance, background pattern, frame color, blinking display, etc.

[0085] The display processing unit 312 may display an inquiry processing image on the display device 36. The inquiry processing image is an image for performing an inquiry processing of transaction information. The inquiry processing image includes, for example, an inquiry menu. The inquiry menu includes, for example, inquiry processing and viewing. The inquiry processing is processing for inquiring about a transaction for which a tax-exemption procedure has been performed. The inquiry processing includes outputting an inquiry request to the server 2. The inquiry processing includes obtaining a response to the inquiry request from the server 2. The inquiry processing image includes, for example, a message for inquiring whether to perform the inquiry processing and an inquiry button through which an instruction to perform the inquiry request can be input. The message for inquiring whether to perform the inquiry processing is, for example, a message such as "Do you want to perform the inquiry processing?" The user of the in-store device 3 inputs an inquiry request instruction in accordance with the inquiry processing image. For example, the user of the in-store device 3 inputs an inquiry request instruction by selecting the inquiry button by touch input or the like. The in-store device 3 outputs the inquiry request to the server 2 based on the user's operation.

[0086] The inquiry processing image includes, for example, a message inquiring whether to view the image and a view button that allows input of an instruction to display the image to be viewed. The message inquiring whether to view the image is, for example, a message such as "Do you want to view the transaction information?" The user of the in-store device 3 inputs the view display instruction in accordance with the inquiry processing image. For example, the user of the in-store device 3 inputs the view display instruction by selecting the view button by touch input or the like. The in-store device 3 displays the transaction information on the display device 36 based on the user's operation.

[0087] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a query request according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 shows an example of an inquiry request output from the in-store device 3. The inquiry request includes, for example, a user ID, a password, and a tax-exemption inquiry command. The user ID is identification information that can uniquely identify a user. The user ID is, for example, information for specifying a duty-free shop or a business. The user ID is, for example, a duty-free shop ID or a store clerk ID. The password is a password set by the user. The tax-exemption inquiry command is, for example, a command for inquiring about a transaction for which tax-exemption procedures have been carried out. The tax-exemption inquiry command may be a command requesting the transaction number of a transaction for which tax-exemption procedures have been carried out. The inquiry request may include an access key. For example, when an inquiry request is output from the in-store device 3 of duty-free shop X, the inquiry request includes the duty-free shop ID, password, and tax-exemption inquiry command of duty-free shop X. The server 2 authenticates the duty-free shop or business based on the user ID and password included in the inquiry request, and outputs a response to the authenticated duty-free shop or business. The server 2 may authenticate the duty-free shop or business based on the access key included in the inquiry request, and output a response to the authenticated duty-free shop or business.

[0088] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a response according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 shows an example of a response to an inquiry request output from server 2. The response includes, for example, a user ID, a password, and a transaction number. The transaction number is the transaction number of a transaction for which tax-free procedures have been carried out. Server 2, for example, references transaction information linked to the duty-free shop or business authenticated based on the inquiry request, and extracts the transaction number of the transaction for which tax-free procedures have been carried out. Server 2 outputs the extracted transaction number as a response. For example, when outputting a response to an inquiry request from the store device 3 of duty-free shop X, the response includes the duty-free shop ID and password of duty-free shop X, and the transaction number of the transaction information for the transaction for which tax-free procedures have been carried out, from the transaction information of duty-free shop X.

[0089] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of transaction information before updating according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 shows an example of the data structure of tax status transaction information.

[0090] Transaction information on tax status includes, for example, at least the transaction number, sales amount, and transaction status. The transaction status includes information on tax rate type, price for each tax rate type, and tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive type. In the example of Figure 7, the transaction information includes tax rate 1 and tax rate 2 as tax rate types. The transaction information includes tax rate 1 transaction amount and tax rate 2 transaction amount as prices for each tax rate type. The transaction information may also include passport information.

[0091] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of updated transaction information according to the embodiment. Fig. 8 shows an example of the data structure of transaction information that has been updated from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state. Fig. 8 shows an example of the data structure of transaction information in a tax-exempt state.

[0092] Tax-free transaction information includes, for example, at least the transaction number, sales amount, and transaction status. The transaction status includes information on the tax rate type, price for each tax rate type, and tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive price. In the example of Figure 8, the tax rate type is updated to "0%." The price for each tax rate type indicates the price to which a tax rate of "0%" is applied. The tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive price is updated to "tax-exempt." The transaction information may also include passport information.

[0093] (Display example) The image displayed on the display device 36 of the in-store device 3 will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of pre-update transaction information according to the embodiment.

[0094] 9 is a diagram showing a transaction information display image Ima displayed on the display device 36. For example, the in-store device 3 displays the transaction information display image Ima on the display device 36 based on a user's operation of the view button for the inquiry processing image.

[0095] The transaction information display image Ima is an image showing transaction information on the tax status. The transaction information display image Ima includes a transaction information display area Ara, a cancel button Ba, and an end button Bb.

[0096] The transaction information display area Ara shows transaction information for each transaction. Transaction information includes at least the transaction number, sales amount, and transaction status. The transaction status indicates the tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive type, tax rate type, and tax amount. The transaction information for transaction number "YYMMDD0001" shows "tax-exclusive" as the tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive type. The transaction information for transaction number "YYMMDD0001" shows "consumption tax rate 10%" and "consumption tax rate 8%" as the tax rate type. The transaction information for transaction number "YYMMDD0001" shows the tax amounts for each tax rate type as "7,000" and "4,000".

[0097] The stop button Ba is a button that can be used to input an instruction to stop displaying the transaction information. When the user operates the stop button Ba by touch input or the like, the in-store device 3 hides the transaction information display image Ima. The end button Bb is a button that can be used to input an instruction to end the inquiry process. When the user operates the end button Bb by touch input or the like, the in-store device 3 ends the inquiry process.

[0098] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display of updated transaction information according to the embodiment.

[0099] 10 is a diagram showing a transaction information display image Imb displayed on the display device 36. For example, the in-store device 3 displays the transaction information display image Imb on the display device 36 based on the user's operation of the view button for the inquiry processing image.

[0100] The transaction information display image Imb is an image showing transaction information that has been updated from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state. The transaction information display image Imb includes a transaction information display area Arb, a cancel button Ba, and an end button Bb. The transaction information display area Arb, like the transaction information display area Ara, shows transaction information for each transaction. The cancel button Ba and end button Bb are similar to the cancel button Ba and end button Bb of the transaction information display image Ima.

[0101] The transaction information display area Arb includes the updated transaction information Arc. The updated transaction information Arc shows the updated transaction information for transaction number "YYMMDD0001." In the updated transaction information Arc, the tax-inclusive / tax-exclusive type is updated from "tax-exclusive" to "tax-exempt." In the updated transaction information Arc, the tax rate type is updated from "10% consumption tax rate" to "0% consumption tax rate" and from "8% consumption tax rate" to "0% consumption tax rate." In the updated transaction information Arc, the tax amount for each tax rate type is updated from "7,000" to "0" and from "4,000" to "0." The updated transaction information Arc may be displayed in a different manner from other transaction information. For example, the updated transaction information Arc may be displayed in a different color or background color from the other transaction information. In the updated transaction information Arc, only the updated items may be displayed in a different manner from the other items.

[0102] According to this example, when the tax exemption processing unit 311 updates the transaction status of the transaction information, the in-store device 3 can display a transaction information display image Imb indicating the updated transaction information on the display device 36. Therefore, a user of the in-store device 3 can confirm the transaction information of the transaction for which tax exemption processing has been performed based on the transaction information display image Imb. Furthermore, the in-store device 3 can display the updated transaction information on the display device 36 in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from the transaction information of other transactions. Therefore, a user of the in-store device 3 can easily recognize the transaction information of the transaction for which tax exemption processing has been performed.

[0103] (Example of operation) The processing of the information processing system S will be described. In the following description focusing on the POS terminal 1, the POS terminal 1 may be read as the processing circuit 10. Similarly, in the following description focusing on the server 2, the server 2 may be read as the processing circuit 21. In the following description focusing on the in-store device 3, the in-store device 3 may be read as the processing circuit 31. The processing procedures described below are merely examples, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, steps may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate depending on the embodiment. In the following example, we will explain the case where a non-resident customer is shopping at duty-free shop X. The customer purchases a product that is eligible for tax exemption.

[0104] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the procedure of information processing related to product registration in the information processing system S according to the embodiment.

[0105] The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 performs a product registration process for one or more transaction products based on a user operation (ACT1). The user operation is a product registration operation by the user. ACT1 may be processing by the product registration processing unit 101 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 10 registers the product based on the product registration operation by the user of the POS terminal 1. The product registration operation may include, for example, an operation of reading a code symbol attached to the product via the scanner 15. The product registration operation may also include an operation of selecting a product registration button displayed on the screen of the POS terminal 1 by touch input or the like. The processing circuit 10 acquires the product code recorded in the code symbol. The processing circuit 10 references the product master stored in the product master storage area 122 and acquires transaction product data for the product corresponding to the product code. The transaction product data includes data such as the product code, product name, product price, and product quantity. The transaction product data may also include information indicating the product's tax-exempt type. The product corresponding to the product code is also referred to as the transaction product. The transaction target commodity is an example of a traded commodity. The processing circuit 10 may refer to a commodity master stored in a server such as a transaction management server to acquire transaction target commodity data of the commodity corresponding to the commodity code.

[0106] The processing circuit 10 acquires a checkout instruction based on a user operation of the POS terminal 1 (ACT2). ACT2 may be processing by the payment processing unit 105 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 10 acquires a checkout instruction based on a user operation on a product registration image displayed on the first display device 17-1. The user operation may, for example, be an operation of selecting a checkout button included in the product registration image by touch input or the like. The checkout button is a button that can be used to input a checkout instruction.

[0107] Upon receiving the checkout instruction, the processing circuit 10 displays a tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1. This processing may be performed by the display processing unit 103 implemented by the processing circuit 10. The processing circuit 10 may determine whether the items to be transacted include tax-exempt items, and if the items to be transacted include tax-exempt items, display the tax exemption declaration inquiry image on the first display device 17-1. In this example, the processing circuit 10 can display the tax exemption declaration inquiry image depending on whether the items to be transacted include tax-exempt items. If the items to be transacted do not include tax-exempt items, the processing circuit 10 can omit displaying the tax exemption declaration inquiry image.

[0108] The processing circuit 10 acquires a tax exemption processing start instruction based on a user operation (ACT3). ACT3 may be processing by the tax exemption processing unit 102 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 10 acquires a tax exemption processing start instruction based on a user operation on a tax exemption declaration inquiry image displayed on the first display device 17-1. For example, the user of the POS terminal 1 selects a "Yes" button included in the tax exemption declaration inquiry image by touch input or the like.

[0109] The processing circuit 10 acquires the customer's passport information based on the receipt of the instruction to start the tax exemption process (ACT4). ACT4 may be processing by the tax exemption processing unit 102 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 10 may display a passport information input image for inputting passport information on the first display device 17-1. The passport information input image may include, for example, a message prompting the customer to input passport information. The message prompting the customer to input passport information includes, for example, messages such as "Please enter your passport information," "Please hold your passport over the reader," and "Please read the passport information code."

[0110] In one example, the processing circuit 10 acquires passport information based on an input operation by a user via the input device 16. For example, the user inputs a passport number or the like via the input device 16.

[0111] In another example, the processing circuit 10 acquires passport information based on a user's operation of reading a passport via the passport reader 20. For example, the user causes the passport reader 20 to read the passport. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the passport information via the passport reader 20 based on OCR data and image data of the passport medium. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the passport information recorded on an IC tag of the passport medium via the passport reader 20.

[0112] In yet another example, the processing circuit 10 acquires the passport information based on a user's operation of reading the passport information code via the passport reader 20. For example, the user causes the passport information code to be read by the passport reader 20. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the passport information recorded in the passport information code via the passport reader 20.

[0113] The processing circuit 10 performs payment processing (ACT5). ACT5 may be processing by the payment processing unit 105 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT5, for example, the processing circuit 10 performs payment processing for the transaction based on the payment method selected by the customer.

[0114] The processing circuit 10 outputs the tax-free transaction information (ACT6). ACT6 may be processing by the output unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT6, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the transaction information and passport information as tax-free transaction information to the server 2 via the communication interface 14. Note that the processing circuit 10 may output the transaction information and passport information to the in-store device 3 via the communication interface 14. In this case, the in-store device 3 may output the transaction information and passport information to the server 2 as tax-free transaction information.

[0115] The processing circuitry 21 of the server 2 acquires the tax-exempt transaction information. This processing may be performed by an acquisition unit 210 implemented by the processing circuitry 21. For example, the processing circuitry 21 acquires the tax-exempt transaction information from the POS terminal 1 via the communication interface 24.

[0116] The processing circuit 21 stores the tax-exempt transaction information (ACT11). ACT11 may be processing by the acquisition unit 210 realized by the processing circuit 21. In ACT11, for example, the processing circuit 21 stores the tax-exempt transaction information in the tax-exempt transaction information storage area 230.

[0117] The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 issues a receipt (ACT7). ACT7 may be a process performed by the issuing unit 106 implemented by the processing circuit 10.

[0118] The processing circuit 21 of the server 2 may output the tax-free transaction information stored in the tax-free transaction information storage area 230 to an external device.

[0119] According to this example, the POS terminal 1 acquires product information about the product to be transacted by the customer, and acquires the customer's passport information. The POS terminal 1 can output the transaction information of the person eligible for tax-free transactions and the passport information as tax-free transaction information to the server 2. The server 2 can store the tax-free transaction information of the customer who conducted a transaction at the duty-free shop X. When the customer leaves the country, he or she can carry out the tax-free procedure based on the tax-free transaction information stored in the server 2.

[0120] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the procedure of information processing related to tax exemption processing in the information processing system S according to the embodiment. In the following process, it is assumed that, among the transaction information of transactions carried out at duty-free shop X, a query is made to server 2 for transactions for which tax-free procedures have been carried out.

[0121] The processing circuit 31 of the in-store device 3 outputs an inquiry request to the server 2 via the communication interface 34 (ACT31). ACT31 may be processing by the communication processing unit 310 realized by the processing circuit 31. In ACT31, for example, the processing circuit 31 outputs an inquiry request to the server 2 via the communication interface 34 based on the lapse of a predetermined time. The predetermined time is, for example, 24 hours. The predetermined time can be set or updated as appropriate by an administrator or the like. Note that the processing circuit 31 may output the inquiry request to the server 2 via the communication interface 34 at a predetermined time. The predetermined time is, for example, 24:00. The predetermined time can be set or updated as appropriate by an administrator or the like.

[0122] The processing circuitry 21 of the server 2 acquires the inquiry request from the in-store device 3 via the communication interface 24. This processing may be performed by an acquisition unit 210 implemented by the processing circuitry 21.

[0123] Based on the inquiry request, the processing circuit 21 outputs a response to the inquiry request to the in-store device 3 via the communication interface 24 (ACT21). ACT21 may be processing by the output unit 211 realized by the processing circuit 21. In ACT21, for example, the processing circuit 21 performs user authentication based on the inquiry request. The processing circuit 21 performs user authentication based on, for example, a user ID and a password. The processing circuit 21 may also perform user authentication based on an access key. The processing circuit 21 identifies the duty-free shop or business that is the authenticated user. For example, the processing circuit 21 extracts transaction information of the identified duty-free shop or business. The processing circuit 21 identifies transaction information of a transaction for which tax-exemption procedures have been performed from the extracted transaction information. For example, the processing circuit 21 outputs transaction identification information that can identify the transaction information of a transaction for which tax-exemption procedures have been performed as a response. For example, the processing circuit 21 outputs the transaction number of the transaction information of the transaction for which tax-exemption procedures have been performed as a response.

[0124] The processing circuit 31 of the in-store device 3 acquires a response to the inquiry request via the communication interface 34 (ACT32). ACT32 may be processing by the communication processing unit 310 implemented by the processing circuit 31. In ACT32, for example, the processing circuit 31 acquires transaction identification information of the transaction for which the tax exemption procedure has been carried out, based on the response to the inquiry request.

[0125] The processing circuit 31 determines whether or not there is a transaction eligible for tax exemption based on the transaction identification information (ACT33). ACT33 may be processing by the tax exemption processing unit 311 implemented by the processing circuit 31. In ACT33, for example, the processing circuit 31 determines whether the corresponding transaction information is stored in the transaction information storage area 330 based on the transaction identification information included in the response. The processing circuit 31 determines whether transaction information with the same transaction number as the transaction number included in the response is stored in the transaction information storage area 330. The processing circuit 31 determines that there is a transaction eligible for tax exemption if transaction information with the same transaction number is stored in the transaction information storage area 330. The processing circuit 31 determines that there is no transaction eligible for tax exemption if transaction information with the same transaction number is not stored in the transaction information storage area 330. Note that the processing circuit 31 may determine that there is no transaction eligible for tax exemption if tax exemption processing has already been performed on transaction information with the same transaction number as the transaction number included in the response. A transaction eligible for tax exemption is an example of a transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information included in the response.

[0126] If there is a transaction eligible for tax exemption (ACT33: YES), the process proceeds from ACT33 to ACT 34. If there is no transaction eligible for tax exemption (ACT33: NO), the process ends.

[0127] Based on the existence of a transaction eligible for tax exemption processing, the processing circuit 31 performs tax exemption processing for the transaction eligible for tax exemption (ACT34). ACT34 may be processing by the tax exemption processing unit 311 implemented by the processing circuit 31. In ACT34, for example, the processing circuit 31 updates the transaction status of the transaction eligible for tax exemption. The processing circuit 31 updates the transaction information of the transaction eligible for tax exemption processing from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state. The processing circuit 31 saves the transaction information for which tax exemption processing has been performed in the transaction information storage area 330.

[0128] According to this example, the in-store device 3 outputs an inquiry request to inquire about transactions for which tax-exemption procedures have been performed, receives a response to the inquiry request, and based on the response, obtains transaction identification information that can identify transactions for which tax-exemption procedures have been performed, and can update the transaction status of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information. For example, the in-store device 3 can update the transaction information of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state. Therefore, when tax-exemption procedures have been performed for the tax-exempt transaction information stored in the server 2, the in-store device 3 can receive the information and reflect it in the transaction information stored in the in-store device 3. Even if tax-exemption procedures have been performed at the time of departure for a transaction by a person eligible for tax-exemption, the in-store device 3 can reflect the tax-exemption procedures in the transaction information managed by the in-store device 3, thereby avoiding inconsistencies with the actual taxation or tax-exempt status. Furthermore, because the in-store device 3 can update the transaction information based on the response from the server 2, it is possible to eliminate the need to manually change the transaction information to a tax-exempt state. This allows the in-store device 3 to efficiently reflect the presence or absence of tax-exemption procedures in the transaction information.

[0129] Furthermore, the in-store device 3 can output a query request to the server 2 based on the lapse of a predetermined time. Therefore, the in-store device 3 can automatically reflect the tax exemption procedure in the transaction information managed by the in-store device 3. This allows the in-store device 3 to efficiently reflect the presence or absence of the tax exemption procedure in the transaction information.

[0130] In ACT31, the processing circuit 31 of the in-store device 3 may output an inquiry request to the server 2 based on a user operation. For example, the processing circuit 31 displays an inquiry processing image on the display device 36. The user of the in-store device 3 inputs an inquiry request instruction based on an operation of an inquiry button on the inquiry processing image. The processing circuit 31 acquires the inquiry request instruction input by the user. The processing circuit 31 outputs the inquiry request to the server 2 based on the inquiry request instruction. The processing circuit 31 acquires a response to the inquiry request from the server 2. The processing circuit 31 performs processing from ACT32 onwards.

[0131] According to this example, the in-store device 3 can output a query request to the server 2 based on a user's operation. Therefore, the in-store device 3 can reflect the tax exemption procedure in the transaction information managed by the in-store device 3 at a timing desired by the user. This allows the in-store device 3 to improve the convenience of the tax exemption process.

[0132] (Variation) In the above example, the tax exemption process is performed in the in-store device 3, but this is not limiting. The tax exemption process may be performed in the POS terminal 1 instead of the in-store device 3. For example, the POS terminal 1 may have a function for querying transaction information in addition to a function for registering products. The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 may switch the operation mode from the product registration mode to the transaction information query mode based on a user operation. The processing circuit 10 may display a menu image on the first display device 17-1 for switching between the product registration mode and the transaction information query mode. For example, the user of the POS terminal 1 performs an operation to switch to the transaction information query mode based on the menu image. The processing circuit 10 may display a query processing image on the first display device 17-1 based on a user operation.

[0133] The user of the POS terminal 1 inputs an inquiry request instruction by selecting the inquiry button on the inquiry processing image by touch input or the like. The processing circuit 10 outputs the inquiry request to the server 2 based on the user's operation. Similar to ACT32, the processing circuit 10 obtains a response to the inquiry request from the server 2. Based on the response to the inquiry request, the processing circuit 10 obtains transaction identification information that can identify a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been performed, and updates the transaction status of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information. Similar to ACT33, the processing circuit 10 determines whether the corresponding transaction information is stored in the transaction information storage area 121 based on the transaction identification information included in the response. If there is a transaction eligible for tax exemption, the processing circuit 10 performs tax exemption processing for the transaction eligible for tax exemption, similar to ACT34.

[0134] In addition, the processing circuitry 10 may output a query request to the server 2 via the communication interface 14 based on the lapse of a predetermined time. The processing circuitry 10 may output a query request to the server 2 via the communication interface 14 at a predetermined time.

[0135] According to this example, when a tax-exemption procedure is performed for the tax-exempt transaction information stored in server 2, the information can be received and reflected in the transaction information stored in POS terminal 1. Furthermore, since POS terminal 1 can update the transaction information based on the response from server 2, it is possible to eliminate the need to manually change the transaction information to a tax-exempt status. This allows POS terminal 1 to efficiently reflect the presence or absence of a tax-exemption procedure in the transaction information.

[0136] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of information processing related to the display of transaction information according to the embodiment. The following processing is performed when a user inputs an instruction to view and display transaction information. For example, the in-store device 3 displays an inquiry processing image on the display device 36. The user of the in-store device 3 selects "view" from the inquiry menu of the inquiry processing image. Based on the selection of "view," the in-store device 3 displays on the display device 36 an inquiry processing image including a message inquiring whether to view the image and a "view" button that can be used to input an instruction to display the image to be viewed.

[0137] In the following process, it is assumed that the in-store device 3 has performed the tax exemption process.

[0138] The processing circuitry 31 acquires a viewing and display instruction (ACT201). ACT201 may be processing by the display processing unit 312 realized by the processing circuitry 31. In ACT201, for example, the processing circuitry 31 acquires a viewing and display instruction based on input of a viewing and display instruction by a user.

[0139] The processing circuit 31 displays the transaction information on the display device 36 based on the viewing and display instruction (ACT202). ACT202 may be processing by the display processing unit 312 realized by the processing circuit 31. In ACT202, for example, the processing circuit 31 displays the updated transaction information on the display device 36. For example, the processing circuit 31 displays a transaction information display image Imb as shown in FIG. 10 on the display device 36. The processing circuit 31 displays the updated transaction information on the display device 36 in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from transaction information of other transactions.

[0140] According to this example, when the tax exemption processing unit 311 updates the transaction status of the transaction information, the in-store device 3 can display the updated transaction information on the display device 36. This allows the user of the in-store device 3 to check the transaction information of the transaction for which tax exemption processing has been performed. Furthermore, the in-store device 3 can display the updated transaction information on the display device 36 in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from the transaction information of other transactions. This allows the user of the in-store device 3 to easily recognize the transaction information of the transaction for which tax exemption processing has been performed.

[0141] The above-described process can also be implemented in the POS terminal 1. For example, when a user of the POS terminal 1 inputs an instruction to view and display transaction information, the POS terminal 1 displays an inquiry processing image on the first display device 17-1. The user of the POS terminal 1 selects "view" from the inquiry menu of the inquiry processing image. Based on the selection of "view," the POS terminal 1 displays on the first display device 17-1 an inquiry processing image including a message inquiring whether to view the image and a "view" button that can be used to input an instruction to display the image for viewing.

[0142] The processing circuit 10 of the POS terminal 1 receives the viewing and display instruction in the same manner as in ACT 201. The processing circuit 10 displays the transaction information on the first display device 17-1 based on the viewing and display instruction in the same manner as in ACT 202.

[0143] (Other variations) In the above description, the in-store device 3 performs tax exemption processing on transaction information stored in the auxiliary storage device 12, but the present invention is not limited to this. When the in-store device 3 manages transaction information for multiple stores operated by the same business, the in-store device 3 may perform tax exemption processing on the managed transaction information. In this case, the inquiry request may include a business ID, a password, and a tax exemption inquiry command that can identify the business. Based on the response to the inquiry request, the in-store device 3 may perform tax exemption processing on the transaction information for multiple stores managed by the in-store device 3.

[0144] In addition, when the in-store device 3 manages transaction information of multiple stores operated by multiple businesses, it may perform tax exemption processing on the managed transaction information. In this case, the inquiry request may include a business ID, a password, and a tax exemption inquiry command that can identify each of the multiple businesses. The inquiry request may also include an administrator ID, a password, and a tax exemption inquiry command that can identify the administrator of the in-store device 3. The in-store device 3 may perform tax exemption processing on the transaction information of the multiple stores managed by the in-store device 3 based on a response to the inquiry request.

[0145] The above description has been given using an example of a POS terminal 1 having a product registration function and a payment function, in which a store clerk intervenes in product registration and payment, but this is not limiting. The POS terminal 1 may also be a POS terminal having a product registration function and a payment function, in which a customer can complete the process from product registration to payment without the intervention of a store clerk. The POS terminal 1 may also be a POS terminal having a payment function, in which a customer can make a payment without the intervention of a store clerk. In this example, product registration may be performed by a store clerk using a registration device. Product registration may also be performed by a customer using a shopping cart system with a product registration function. Product registration may also be performed by a customer using a mobile terminal owned by the customer. Product registration may also be performed by a customer using a mobile terminal provided in advance by a store, etc. In this case, product registration is performed on the mobile terminal by the customer's operation. The transaction process is performed by a separate transaction device, separate from the mobile terminal.

[0146] In this case, for example, the product registration process in ACT1 in Figure 11 is replaced with the following process. The customer executes the product registration process on their mobile terminal. Once product registration is complete, the mobile terminal displays an image (e.g., a two-dimensional code image) on the screen of the mobile terminal indicating the transaction target product data generated by the product registration. The customer holds the two-dimensional code image displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal over the checkout device. The checkout device reads the image displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal indicating the transaction target product data using a scanner or other device within the checkout device. The checkout device then acquires the transaction target product data and stores it as transaction information in an auxiliary storage device. The same process is then executed from ACT3 onwards in Figure 11.

[0147] (Other embodiments) The information processing device may be realized by one device as explained using the in-store device 3 as an example, or may be realized by a plurality of devices with distributed functions.

[0148] The information processing device may be realized by one device as explained using the POS terminal 1 as an example, or may be realized by multiple devices with distributed functions.

[0149] When the functions of the POS terminal 1 are provided in a cloud server, the information processing device may be a system that realizes the functions of the POS terminal 1 through a system including a tablet terminal communicably connected to the cloud server.

[0150] The above-described embodiments may be applied to a method executed by an apparatus, a program that can cause a computer of the apparatus to execute each function, or a recording medium that stores the program.

[0151] Each of the one or more circuits constituting the processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs a part of the multiple processes. The part of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in a single device or may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0152] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in the device according to the embodiment, or in a state where it is not stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is computer-readable.

[0153] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims.

[0154] The above embodiment may be expressed as follows. (1) a communication processing unit that outputs an inquiry request for inquiring about a transaction for which a tax exemption procedure has been performed and obtains a response to the inquiry request; a tax exemption processing unit that acquires transaction identification information that can identify a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been performed based on the response, and updates transaction information of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state; An information processing device comprising: (2) the communication processing unit outputs the inquiry request when a predetermined time has elapsed; The information processing device described in (1). (3) the communication processing unit outputs the inquiry request based on a user operation; The information processing device described in (1). (4) The tax exemption processing unit further includes a display processing unit that displays the updated transaction information on a display unit when the transaction information is updated by the tax exemption processing unit. The information processing device described in (1). (5) The display processing unit displays the updated transaction information on the display unit in a manner that allows the updated transaction information to be distinguished from transaction information of other transactions. (4) An information processing device according to the present invention. (6) To the computer: a function of outputting an inquiry request for inquiring about a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been performed and obtaining a response to the inquiry request; a function of acquiring transaction identification information that can identify a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been carried out based on the response, and updating transaction information of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax exempt state; An information processing program capable of executing the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 1...POS terminal, 2...server, 3...store equipment, 10...processing circuit, 11...main memory, 12...auxiliary storage device, 13...change machine interface, 14...communication interface, 15...scanner, 16...input device, 17-1...first display device, 17-2...second display device, 18...printing device, 19...card reader, 20...passport reader, 21...processing circuit, 22...main memory, 23...auxiliary storage device, 24...communication interface, 31...processing circuit, 32...main memory, 33...auxiliary storage device, 34...communication interface, 35...input device, 36... Display device, 101...product registration processing unit, 102...tax-exempt processing unit, 103...display processing unit, 104...output unit, 105...payment processing unit, 106...issuing unit, 121...transaction information storage area, 122...product master storage area, 210...acquisition unit, 211...output unit, 230...tax-exempt transaction information storage area, 310...communication processing unit, 311...tax-exemption processing unit, 312...display processing unit, 330...transaction information storage area, Ara~Arb...transaction information display area, Arc...updated transaction information, Ba...cancel button, Bb...end button, Ima~Imb...transaction information display image, NA...network, S...information processing system, X...duty-free store.

Claims

1. a communication processing unit that outputs an inquiry request for inquiring about a transaction for which a tax exemption procedure has been performed and obtains a response to the inquiry request; a tax exemption processing unit that acquires transaction identification information that can identify a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been performed based on the response, and updates transaction information of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state; An information processing device comprising:

2. the communication processing unit outputs the inquiry request when a predetermined time has elapsed. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the communication processing unit outputs the inquiry request based on a user operation. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. and a display processing unit that displays the updated transaction information on a display unit when the transaction information is updated by the tax exemption processing unit. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. the display processing unit displays the updated transaction information on the display unit in a manner that allows the updated transaction information to be distinguished from transaction information of other transactions. The information processing device according to claim 4 .

6. On the computer, a function of outputting an inquiry request for inquiring about a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been performed and obtaining a response to the inquiry request; a function of acquiring transaction identification information that can identify a transaction for which tax exemption procedures have been carried out based on the response, and updating the transaction information of the transaction corresponding to the transaction identification information from a taxable state to a tax-exempt state; An information processing program capable of executing the above.

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