Information processing device and program

Abstract

The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an information processing device and program that can prevent the purchase of pharmaceuticals for purposes other than their intended purpose at stores that sell pharmaceuticals and have self-service POS terminals installed. [Solution] The information processing device of the embodiment includes: an acquisition means for acquiring product identification information to identify products sold in a store; a pharmaceutical determination means for determining whether the product in the product identification information acquired by the acquisition means is a pharmaceutical product; a counting means for counting the number of pharmaceutical products determined by the pharmaceutical determination means for each type of pharmaceutical product; an excess determination means for determining which type of pharmaceutical product the count value of the counting means exceeds a predetermined number; and an output means for outputting call information to call a store employee when the excess determination means determines that an excess has occurred.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in stores such as supermarkets, general merchandise stores, and convenience stores, there are self-service sales data processing devices (hereinafter referred to as "self-POS (Point of Sales) terminals"). A self-POS terminal is a device that allows customers to perform product registration operations and payment operations for the products they purchase themselves.

[0003] In recent years, there are also stores (such as drugstores) that sell pharmaceuticals and other products (such as food and daily necessities) in the same store. When a self-POS terminal is installed in such a store, customers put the pharmaceuticals and other products they purchase into a shopping basket or cart, go to the self-POS terminal, and operate the self-POS terminal to perform product registration operations and payment operations for the pharmaceuticals and products they purchase.

[0004] By the way, since there are people who purchase large quantities of pharmaceuticals for purposes other than the original purpose, stores are taking measures such as setting purchase quantity limits for pharmaceuticals. However, although the measures are effective at manned cash registers, in the case of self-POS terminals, it has been difficult to prevent the purchase of pharmaceuticals for purposes other than the original purpose because customers themselves perform product registration operations and payment operations.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus and a program capable of preventing the purchase of pharmaceuticals for purposes other than the original purpose in a store that sells pharmaceuticals and installs a self-POS terminal.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing device of this embodiment includes: an acquisition means for acquiring product identification information that identifies products to be sold in a store; a pharmaceutical product determination means for determining whether the product identified by the product identification information acquired by the acquisition means is a pharmaceutical product; a counting means for counting the number of pharmaceutical products determined by the pharmaceutical product determination means for each type of pharmaceutical product; an excess determination means for determining which type of pharmaceutical product the count value of the counting means exceeds a predetermined number; and an output means for outputting call information to call a store employee when the excess determination means determines that an excess has occurred. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows the layout of the system within the store. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the server's hardware configuration. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a memory map showing the memory configuration of the Pharmaceutical Management Department. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a memory map showing the memory configuration of the product master. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a memory map showing the memory configuration of the customer master. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing and information between the self-service POS terminal and the server in chronological order. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the display on a self-service POS terminal. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the server's processing flow. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, the server will be described as an example of an information processing device. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0009] Figure 1 shows the system 10 according to this embodiment in a store (e.g., a drugstore) that sells both pharmaceuticals and non-pharmaceutical products (e.g., food and daily necessities). In such a store, since Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 pharmaceuticals are handled, a pharmacist or registered store employee is stationed or permanently present. Class 1 pharmaceuticals must be sold face-to-face with a pharmacist. Class 2 and Class 3 pharmaceuticals must be sold face-to-face with a registered store employee. Face-to-face sales are a sales method in which a pharmacist or store employee explains the efficacy, usage, and risks of the pharmaceutical to the customer before selling it. In the following explanation, pharmaceuticals and other products will be collectively referred to as "products." In other words, pharmaceuticals are a part of the products.

[0010] The store displays a wide variety of products, including pharmaceuticals. For pharmaceuticals that require face-to-face sales, empty boxes are displayed, and customers scan a symbol on the box. A store employee then brings the product and sells it face-to-face. The store is also equipped with one or more self-service POS terminals, a server, and an attendant PC. The self-service POS terminals, server, and attendant PC are connected via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network), allowing them to communicate with each other (send and receive information).

[0011] Self-service POS terminal 1 is installed in the store's checkout area. As detailed in Figures 2 and 3, self-service POS terminal 1 is a device that allows customers to perform product registration operations (scanning barcodes, QR codes, and other symbols attached to products) and accounting operations (procedures to accounting) for products they purchase. Self-service POS terminal 1 queries server 3 for product information (product name, price, etc.) for products registered by the customer, and performs product registration processing for those products based on the product information received. Product registration processing involves displaying the received product information and storing it in the product information unit 131 (see Figure 3). Self-service POS terminal 1 also performs accounting processing for the registered products. Accounting processing involves displaying the total amount based on the product information stored in the product information unit 131, performing payment processing for those products, and issuing a receipt when an accounting operation is performed. Self-service POS terminal 1 also transmits the processed sales information to server 3.

[0012] Server 3 cumulatively stores sales information received from Self-POS Terminal 1 and manages the store's sales. Server 3 also manages the number of pharmaceuticals sold in a single transaction (to a single customer). Specifically, when a customer attempts to purchase a large quantity of a particular pharmaceutical in a single transaction, Server 3 sends a call information to Self-POS Terminal 1 to have a pharmacist or registered store employee confirm the purchase. A large quantity here refers to, for example, a quantity greater than the amount of pharmaceutical that a customer normally needs to purchase. It also refers to, for example, a quantity exceeding the amount of pharmaceutical that the store has set as the maximum amount that can be purchased at one time. The reason a customer purchases a large quantity of pharmaceutical is, for example, to use the pharmaceutical for a purpose other than its intended purpose, and the reason for restricting the purchase of large quantities of pharmaceutical is to prevent such use of pharmaceutical for purposes other than its intended purpose. When a customer attempts to purchase a large quantity of pharmaceutical, the store employee confirms the purpose of the purchase.

[0013] Furthermore, in this embodiment, server 3 transmits call information to the self-service POS terminal 1 to prompt a pharmacist or registered store employee for verification, even if the drugs are not from the same manufacturer, when the customer attempts to purchase a large quantity of multiple types of drugs that have the same efficacy (for example, contain the same ingredients).

[0014] Furthermore, when the self-service POS terminal 1 reads a symbol for a medicine that requires face-to-face sales, server 3 transmits call information to the self-service POS terminal 1 to summon a pharmacist or store employee who will perform the face-to-face sale.

[0015] Furthermore, if the customer attempts to purchase a medication that may interact with the medication they are trying to buy, Server 3 will send a call information to Self POS Terminal 1 to have a pharmacist or registered store employee verify the information.

[0016] The self-service POS terminal 1 performs a call process to summon a pharmacist or store employee if the product for which the customer has inquired is a pharmaceutical product. Specifically, when the self-service POS terminal 1 receives call information from the server 3, it performs a call process to summon a pharmacist or store employee. The call process is, for example, the process of turning on or flashing the warning light 22 provided on the self-service POS terminal 1. The call process is also the process of sending call information to the attendant PC 5 to summon a pharmacist or store employee. In this embodiment, the self-service POS terminal 1 performs a call process by turning on or flashing the warning light 22 and sending call information to the attendant PC 5.

[0017] Next, the structure of the self-POS terminal 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the self-POS terminal 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the self-POS terminal 1 has a main body 2 and a change machine 23. The main body 2 includes a mounting table 25, a scanner 20, and a bagging table 26. The mounting table 25 is a table for mounting a basket containing goods. The scanner 20 captures an image of or optically reads a symbol attached to a product. The scanner 20 also reads customer identification information (e.g., customer code) symbolically represented on the customer card to identify the customer and distinguish them from other customers. The bagging table 26 is a table for bagging the products whose symbols have been read by the scanner 20.

[0018] The main body 2 also includes a display unit 18, an operation unit 17, and a printing unit 19 supported by a pillar above the bagging table 26. The display unit 18 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays information to the customer operating the self-POS terminal 1. The operation unit 17 is, for example, a touch panel provided on the display unit 18. The touch panel at a position corresponding to the image of the key displayed on the display unit 18 functions as the key of the displayed key image. In the following description, the "key of the touch panel at a position corresponding to the image of the key displayed on the display unit 18" will be simply described as, for example, "the key displayed on the display unit 18" for simplicity. The printing unit 19 is a printer (e.g., a thermal printer) that prints the product information of the accounted products and issues the printed receipt.

[0019] The main body 2 also has a substantially cylindrical pole 27 extending upward at the rear side of the bagging table 26. The main body 2 also includes a pat lamp 22 at the upper tip of the pole 27. The pat lamp 22 lights up or blinks to indicate to the pharmacist or store clerk that the self-POS terminal 1 is making a call (performing a call process).

[0020] The change machine 23 is arranged adjacent to the main body 2. The change machine 23 deposits the money (coins and banknotes) inserted by the customer as part of the accounting operation and stores them by denomination. The change machine 23 also pays out change in money if there is change for the amount inserted by the customer in cash.

[0021] The hardware configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1 will now be described. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1. As shown in Figure 3, the self-service POS terminal 1 is equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, an example of a processor, an SSD (Solid State Drive) 12, memory 13, etc. The CPU 11 is the main control unit of the self-service POS terminal 1. The SSD 12 stores various programs. The memory 13 loads programs and various data. The CPU 11, SSD 12, and memory 13 are connected to each other via a bus 15. The CPU 11, SSD 12, and memory 13 constitute the control unit 100. That is, the control unit 100 executes the control processing of the self-service POS terminal 1, which will be described later, by operating according to the control program stored in the SSD 12 and loaded into the memory 13 by the CPU 11.

[0022] The SSD12 is composed of non-volatile memory and has a control program unit 121 that stores a control program for operating the self-POS terminal 1 and a terminal code unit 122. The terminal code unit 122 stores terminal identification information (for example, a terminal code or terminal number (in this embodiment, a terminal code is used)) that identifies the self-POS terminal 1.

[0023] Memory 13 includes a product information unit 131, a sales information unit 132, and a customer information unit 133. The product information unit 131 stores product information of products that have been registered. The sales information unit 132 stores sales information of products that have been accounted for. The customer information unit 133 stores customer identification information read by the scanner 20.

[0024] Furthermore, the control unit 100 is connected to the operation unit 17, display unit 18, printing unit 19, scanner 20, card R / W (reader / writer) 21, warning light 22, and change dispenser 23 via the bus 15 and controller 16. The operation unit 17 has a call key 171 and a payment key 172. The call key 171 is operated by the customer to call a store employee when they are confused about how to operate the self-service POS terminal 1 or when a malfunction occurs in the self-service POS terminal 1. The payment key 172 is operated by the customer when performing payment operations on the self-service POS terminal 1. The card R / W (reader / writer) 21 reads and writes information to a medium (e.g., a credit card) used when making a cashless payment.

[0025] Furthermore, the control unit 100 is connected to the communication unit 24 via the bus 15. The communication unit 24 is connected to the server 3 and the attendant PC 5 via the network L, enabling the sending and receiving of information.

[0026] Next, the hardware configuration of server 3 will be described. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of server 3. As shown in Figure 4, server 3 is equipped with a CPU 31 (an example of a processor), an SSD 32, memory 33, etc. The CPU 31 is the main control unit for server 3. The SSD 32 stores various programs. The memory 33 stores programs and various data. The CPU 31, SSD 32, and memory 33 are connected to each other via a bus 35. The CPU 31, SSD 32, and memory 33 constitute the control unit 300. That is, the control unit 300 executes the control processing of server 3, which will be described later, by having the CPU 31 operate according to the control programs stored in the SSD 32 and loaded into the memory 33.

[0027] SSD32 is composed of non-volatile memory and includes a control program unit 321 that stores a control program for operating server 3, a product master 322, a customer master 323, and a drug interaction information unit 324. The product master 322 stores product information (product identification information, product name, product price, etc.) for each product, associated with the product identification information of products sold in the store. The product master 322 will be described later in Figure 6. The customer master 323 stores information of registered customers. The customer master 323 will be described later in Figure 7. The drug interaction information unit 324 stores combinations of medications that should not be taken together. Depending on the ingredients they contain, there are combinations of medications that should not be taken together. The drug interaction information unit 324 stores combinations of medications that should not be taken together.

[0028] Memory 33 includes a sales information unit 331, a pharmaceutical management unit 332, and a product identification information unit 333. The sales information unit 331 cumulatively stores sales information received from each self-service POS terminal 1. The pharmaceutical management unit 332 manages information on pharmaceuticals whose symbols were read during a single transaction at each self-service POS terminal 1. Specifically, when the pharmaceutical management unit 332 receives an inquiry about product information from each self-service POS terminal 1, if the inquiry concerns a pharmaceutical, it stores the information of that pharmaceutical. In other words, the pharmaceutical management unit 332 stores the product information and quantity of the pharmaceutical for which an inquiry about product information was made. The pharmaceutical management unit 332 will be described later in Figure 5. The product identification information unit 333 stores product identification information, including pharmaceuticals, included in the inquiry received from the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0029] Furthermore, the control unit 300 is connected to the operation unit 37 and the display unit 38 via the bus 35 and the controller 36. The operation unit 37 is, for example, a keyboard or touch panel, and is operated by the operator of the server 3. The display unit 38 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays information to the operator operating the server 3.

[0030] Furthermore, the control unit 300 is connected to the communication unit 39 via the bus 35. The communication unit 39 is connected to the self-service POS terminal 1 and the attendant PC 5 via the network L, enabling the transmission and reception of information.

[0031] Next, the Pharmaceutical Management Unit 332 will be described. The Pharmaceutical Management Unit 332 stores information about pharmaceuticals for which product information has been requested from each self-service POS terminal 1, along with the number of inquiries for each pharmaceutical (collectively referred to as "Pharmaceutical Information"), categorized by terminal code. Figure 5 is a memory map showing the memory configuration of the Pharmaceutical Management Unit 332. Although Figure 5 describes the pharmaceutical information corresponding to a pharmaceutical related to one terminal code for which an inquiry was made from a self-service POS terminal 1, the Pharmaceutical Management Unit 332 actually stores the pharmaceutical information for each requested pharmaceutical, categorized by the self-service POS terminal 1 (category by terminal code). As shown in Figure 5, the Pharmaceutical Management Unit 332 has a terminal code unit 3321, a product information unit 3322, and a quantity unit 3323. The terminal code unit 3321 stores the terminal code that identifies the self-service POS terminal 1 that made the inquiry. The product information unit 3322 stores the product information (product identification information and product name) of the pharmaceuticals for which an inquiry was made from the self-service POS terminal 1 with the terminal code stored in the terminal code unit 3321. The counting unit 3323 stores the number of inquiries for the relevant pharmaceutical product, corresponding to the product information stored in the product information unit 3322. That is, the counting unit 3323 stores the number of identical pharmaceutical products whose symbols were read during a single transaction at the self-service POS terminal 1 of the terminal code stored in the terminal code unit 3321, for each pharmaceutical product.

[0032] In the example shown in Figure 5, the self-service POS terminal 1, which uses the terminal code stored in the terminal code unit 3321, shows that during a single transaction, the symbol for drug C was read twice, the symbol for drug D was read once, the symbol for drug E was read six times, and the symbol for drug F was read three times.

[0033] Next, the product master 322 will be described. Figure 6 is a memory map showing the memory configuration of the product master 322. As shown in Figure 6, the product master 322 has a product code section 3421, a product name section 3422, a unit price section 3423, a type section 3424, a limited quantity section 3425, and an efficacy similarity section 3426. The product code section 3421 stores product identification information (product code) that identifies a product. The product name section 3422 stores the product name of the product identified by the product identification information stored in the product code section 3421, in association with the product identification information stored in the product code section 3421. The unit price section 3423 stores the unit price of the product identified by the product identification information stored in the product code section 3421, in association with the product identification information stored in the product code section 3421. The Classification Unit 3424 stores the type of pharmaceutical product to which the pharmaceutical product identified by the product identification information stored in the Product Code Unit 3421 belongs (whether it is a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 pharmaceutical product). For pharmaceutical products that do not fall into any of these categories, the Classification Unit 3424 stores information indicating that it is a pharmaceutical product. The Limit Unit 3425 stores the number of pharmaceutical products identified by the product identification information stored in the Product Code Unit 3421 that can be purchased in a single transaction (the limit on the number of products that cannot be purchased beyond this limit).

[0034] The limited quantity stored in the limited quantity section 3425 may be the maximum number of pharmaceuticals that can be purchased under normal usage conditions, or it may be the maximum number set by the store. The efficacy similarity section 3426 stores information on other pharmaceuticals (hereinafter referred to as "similar pharmaceuticals") whose efficacy is approximately the same or similar to the pharmaceutical identified in the product identification information stored in the product code section 3421, in association with the product identification information stored in the product identification information.

[0035] In the example shown in Figure 6, drug C, specified in product identification information 0003, is a Class 1 drug with a limit of 2 units. Drug D, specified in product identification information 0004, is a Class 2 drug with a limit of 3 units, and drug F is a similar drug with matching or similar efficacy. Drug E, specified in product identification information 0005, is a Class 3 drug with a limit of 5 units. Drug F, specified in product identification information 0006, is a Class 2 drug with a limit of 3 units, and drug D is a similar drug with matching or similar efficacy.

[0036] Next, the customer master 323 will be described. Figure 7 is a memory map showing the memory configuration of the customer master 323. As shown in Figure 7, the customer master 323 has a customer code section 3431, a customer name section 3432, a miscellaneous information section 3433, and a purchase history section 3434. The customer code section 3431 stores customer identification information (customer code) that identifies the customer. The customer name section 3432 stores the name of the customer identified by the customer identification information stored in the customer code section 3431, in association with the customer identification information stored in the customer code section 3431. The miscellaneous information section 3433 stores various information about the customer identified by the customer identification information (address, telephone number, membership registration date, membership rank, etc.), in association with the customer identification information stored in the customer code section 3431. The purchase history section 3434 stores the purchase history of products previously purchased by the customer identified by the customer identification information stored in the customer code section 3431, in association with the customer identification information stored in the customer code section 3431. The purchase history section 3434 also stores the purchase history of pharmaceuticals that the customer has purchased in the past (including information on the efficacy and ingredients of those pharmaceuticals).

[0037] In the example shown in Figure 7, customer A (customer identification information 001) has previously purchased drug A. Customer B (customer identification information 002) has previously purchased drug B. Customer C (customer identification information 003) has previously purchased drug C. Customer D (customer identification information 004) has previously purchased both drug A and drug B.

[0038] Next, we will explain the main processes and information transmission / reception between the self-POS terminal 1 and the server 3. Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing the main processes and information flow between the self-POS terminal 1 and the server 3. First, we will explain the quantity limit for pharmaceuticals. As shown in Figure 8, the self-POS terminal 1 reads the symbol attached to the product using the scanner 20 (T1). Then, based on the product identification information obtained from the read symbol, the self-POS terminal 1 queries the server 3 for product information that identifies the product (T2). Note that the query from the self-POS terminal 1 to the server 3 includes the terminal code read from the terminal code unit 122 in addition to the product identification information. Furthermore, if the scanner 20 reads customer identification information, that customer identification information is also added to the query.

[0039] When server 3 receives an inquiry, it searches the product master 322 based on the received product identification information and retrieves the product information for the product in question (T3). If the received product identification information indicates a pharmaceutical product, server 3 then performs a registration process in the pharmaceutical management unit 332 for the pharmaceutical product identified by the retrieved product information (T4). The registration process initially involves storing the received terminal code in the terminal code unit 3321, storing the product identification information and product name in the product information unit 3322, and storing "1" in the quantity unit 3323. For subsequent inquiries about pharmaceutical products, for new pharmaceutical products, the terminal code is stored in the terminal code unit 3321, and the product identification information and product name are added to the product information unit 3322, and "1" is stored in the quantity unit 3323. If the product identification information and product name are already stored, the number stored in the quantity unit 3323 is incremented by 1.

[0040] Server 3 then determines whether the number of identical drugs stored in the quantity unit 3323 exceeds the limit number stored in the limit unit 3425 (T5). If similar drugs are stored in the efficacy similarity unit 3426, Server 3 may also determine whether the number of drugs including similar drugs exceeds the limit number stored in the limit unit 3425 (T5). If Server 3 determines that the number of drugs (which may include the number of similar drugs) exceeds the limit number stored in the limit unit 3425, it sends a call information to the self-service POS terminal 1 to summon a store employee (T6).

[0041] Upon receiving the call information, the self-service POS terminal 1 activates or flashes the warning light 22 and sends information to the attendant PC 5 to summon a store employee, executing a call process (T7). Based on the call process, the store employee goes to the self-service POS terminal 1. The employee then explains to the customer the correct quantity of the medicine they intend to purchase (i.e., takes appropriate action). If the customer changes the quantity of medicine to be purchased based on the employee's explanation, the self-service POS terminal 1 executes a product registration process (T8).

[0042] Next, we will explain the case of purchasing medicines that require face-to-face sales. Processing T1 to T3 is the same as above, so the explanation will be omitted. Server 3 determines whether the medicine requires face-to-face sales (i.e., whether it is a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 medicine) based on the information in Classification Unit 3424 (T11). If it is determined that the medicine requires face-to-face sales, it executes the processing T6 to T8 described above. If it is determined in T11 that it is a Class 1 medicine, Server 3 sends a call information to the self-POS terminal 1 to summon a pharmacist (T6). If it is determined in T11 that it is a Class 2 or Class 3 medicine, Server 3 sends a call information to the self-POS terminal 1 to summon a registered store clerk (T6). Even if it is determined that it is a Class 2 or Class 3 medicine, a pharmacist may still handle the transaction. In this case, the pharmacist or store clerk conducting the face-to-face sale will explain the efficacy, usage, and risks of the medicine to the customer in person (i.e., provide appropriate service) and perform the product registration operation for the medicine.

[0043] Next, we will explain how drug interactions are determined. Processing T1 to T3 is the same as above, so we will omit the explanation. Self-service POS terminal 1 queries by adding the terminal code and customer identification information to the product identification information. Server 3 determines whether or not there is a drug interaction with the drug in question based on the drug that the customer intends to purchase, which is stored in the drug management unit 332 in response to the received customer identification information (T21). The determination of whether or not there is a drug interaction is made based on the drug interaction information unit 324, which stores information on drug combinations that should not be taken together, and whether the drug to be purchased matches any of the stored combination information. If it is determined that there is a drug interaction, the processing T6 to T8 described above is executed. In this case, the called pharmacist or store clerk explains the precautions for taking the drug that should not be taken together (i.e., takes appropriate action) and performs the product registration operation for the drug in question.

[0044] The control of the self-service POS terminal 1 will now be explained. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the self-service POS terminal 1. As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 100 of the self-service POS terminal 1 determines whether the scanner 20 has read a symbol containing customer identification information that is written on the customer card held by the customer (S11). If it is determined that a symbol has been read (Yes in S11), the control unit 100 stores the read customer identification information in the customer information unit 133 (S12). If it is determined that no symbol has been read (No in S11), the control unit 100 does not execute the process in S12. If S12 has been processed, or if S11 is No, the control unit 100 then determines whether the scanner 20 has read a symbol attached to the product (S21). If the control unit 100 determines that it has read the symbol attached to the product (Yes in S21), it adds the terminal code stored in the terminal code unit 122 to the product identification information obtained by analyzing the symbol, and adds customer identification information stored in the customer information unit 133 if such information exists, and then queries the server 3 for product information related to the product identification information (S22). The control unit 100 then returns to S21.

[0045] Furthermore, if it is determined that the reading is not of a symbol attached to the product (No. in S21), the control unit 100 determines whether it has received product information from the server 3 (S23). If it determines that product information has been received (Yes in S23), it determines whether the received product information includes call information to summon a pharmacist or registered store clerk (S24). If it is determined that no call information is included (No. in S24), the control unit 100 performs product registration processing for the product based on the received product information (S25). Then the control unit 100 returns to S21.

[0046] Furthermore, if the control unit 100 determines that the received product information includes call information to summon a pharmacist or a registered store employee (Yes in S24), it executes a call process to summon a pharmacist or store employee (S26). If the control unit 100 determines in S24 that call information to summon a pharmacist is included (Yes in S24), it executes a call process to summon a pharmacist (S26). Also, if the control unit 100 determines in S24 that call information to summon a store employee is included (Yes in S24), it executes a call process to summon a registered store employee (S26).

[0047] Figure 10 shows an example of display M displayed on the display unit 18 in response to the call processing performed in S26. Display M indicates that a store clerk or pharmacist is to be called. In the example in Figure 10, the message Ma for calling a store clerk is displayed. If call information is received in connection with the processing in S48, which is a process of server 3 described later, a message Ma such as "Many medications have been registered. We will call a store clerk, please wait a moment" may be displayed. If call information is received in connection with the processing in S52, which is a process of server 3, a message Ma such as "This is a product sold in person, so we will call a pharmacist, please wait a moment" may be displayed. If store clerk call information is received in connection with the processing in S54, which is a process of server 3, a message Ma such as "This is a product sold in person, so we will call a store clerk, please wait a moment" may be displayed. If store clerk call information is received in connection with the processing in S56, which is a process of server 3, a message Ma such as "We will explain drug interactions. We will call a store clerk, please wait a moment" may be displayed.

[0048] Returning to the explanation of Figure 9, the pharmacist or store clerk goes to the self-service POS terminal 1 that was called. The pharmacist or store clerk then takes appropriate action regarding the medicine that the customer is trying to purchase. If the pharmacist or store clerk has taken appropriate action, they display the OK key on the self-service POS terminal 1. The control unit 100 determines whether the OK key has been pressed (S27). If it determines that the OK key has been pressed (Yes in S27), it executes the product registration process for that product (S25). The control unit 100 then returns to S21. If the OK key has not been pressed (No in S27), it returns to S21 without performing the product registration process for that product.

[0049] Furthermore, if in S23 it is determined that no product information has been received (No in S23), the control unit 100 determines whether the call key 171 has been operated (S31). If it is determined that the call key 171 has been operated (Yes in S31), the control unit 100 executes a call process to summon a store employee (S32). Then the control unit 100 returns to S21.

[0050] Furthermore, if it is determined that the call key 171 was not operated (No. in S31), the control unit 100 determines whether the accounting key 172 was operated (S33). If it is determined that the accounting key 172 was not operated (No. in S33), the control unit 100 returns to S21. If it is determined that the accounting key 172 was operated (Yes in S33), the control unit 100 performs the accounting processing for the transaction based on the product information stored in the product information unit 131 (S34). Then the control unit 100 finishes the transaction for one customer and returns to S11.

[0051] Next, we will explain the functional configuration of Server 3. The control unit 300 of Server 3 functions as an acquisition means 301, a drug determination means 302, a counting means 303, an excess determination means 304, an output means 305, and a drug interaction determination means 306, according to the control program stored in the ROM 32 and the control program unit 341 of the memory unit 34.

[0052] The acquisition means 301 acquires product identification information that identifies products sold in the store. Specifically, the acquisition means 301 stores product identification information contained in the inquiry received from the self-service POS terminal 1 in the product identification information unit 333. More specifically, the acquisition means 301 acquires product identification information related to the pharmaceutical product obtained by the self-service POS terminal 1 reading the symbol attached to the product (stored in the product identification information unit 333).

[0053] Furthermore, the acquisition means 301 acquires customer identification information that identifies the customer along with product identification information.

[0054] Furthermore, acquisition means 301 acquires a terminal code that identifies the self-service POS terminal 1 along with product identification information.

[0055] The pharmaceutical determination means 302 determines whether the product in the product identification information acquired by the acquisition means 301 is a pharmaceutical product. Specifically, the pharmaceutical determination means 302 searches the category section 3424 of the product master 322 based on the product identification information stored in the product identification information section 333 by the acquisition means 301, and determines whether the product is a pharmaceutical product.

[0056] Furthermore, the pharmaceutical determination means 302 searches the classification unit 3424 based on the product identification information stored in the product identification information unit 333 by the acquisition means 301, and determines whether the product is a Class 1 pharmaceutical, a Class 2 pharmaceutical, or a Class 3 pharmaceutical.

[0057] The counting means 303 counts the number of pharmaceuticals determined by the pharmaceutical determination means 302, categorized by type of pharmaceutical. Specifically, the counting means 303 stores the number of products acquired by the acquisition means 301 and determined by the pharmaceutical determination means 302 to be pharmaceuticals in the counting unit 3323, categorized by terminal code acquired by the acquisition means 301 and by type of pharmaceutical, thereby counting the number of pharmaceuticals determined to be pharmaceuticals.

[0058] The excess determination means 304 determines which type of pharmaceutical product the count value of the counting means 303 exceeds a predetermined number. Specifically, the excess determination means 304 determines which type of pharmaceutical product the count value of, calculated by the counting means 303 for each terminal code and each type of pharmaceutical product, exceeds the limited number (predetermined number) stored in the limit number unit 3425.

[0059] The excess determination means 304 determines which type of pharmaceutical product exceeds a predetermined number, based on the sum of the count values ​​for each product, in the case of pharmaceutical products from different manufacturers with the same efficacy.

[0060] The output means 305 outputs call information to summon a store employee when the excess determination means 304 determines that an excess has occurred. Specifically, when the excess determination means 304 determines that an excess has occurred, the output means 305 transmits call information to summon a store employee to the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0061] Furthermore, if the drug determination means 302 determines that the drug is a Class 1 drug, the output means 305 outputs (transmits to the self-service POS terminal 1) call information to summon a pharmacist (who is a store employee). Also, if the drug determination means 302 determines that the drug is a Class 2 or Class 3 drug, the output means 305 outputs (transmits to the self-service POS terminal 1) call information to summon a store employee.

[0062] The drug interaction determination means 306 determines whether there are any drugs that should not be taken with the drug the customer is trying to purchase. Specifically, based on the customer identification information acquired by the acquisition means 301, the drug interaction determination means 306 searches the drug interaction information unit 324 for drugs stored in the drug management unit 323 and determines whether there are any drugs that should not be taken with the drug stored in the drug management unit 323.

[0063] Furthermore, the output means 305 outputs (sent to the self-service POS terminal 1) call information to summon a store employee when the drink interaction determination means 306 determines that there is a risk of a drink interaction.

[0064] Next, we will explain the control of Server 3. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of Server 3. As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 300 of Server 3 determines whether it has received a product information inquiry from the self-POS terminal 1 (S41). It waits until it receives the inquiry (No in S41), and if it determines that it has received the inquiry (Yes in S41), the acquisition means 301 stores the product identification information and terminal code included in the received inquiry (and customer identification information if it is included) in the product identification information unit 333 (S42). Then, the control unit 300 acquires product information related to the product from the product master 322 based on the stored product identification information (S43).

[0065] Next, the pharmaceutical determination means 302 determines whether the product is a pharmaceutical product based on the information in the classification unit 3424 pertaining to the product (S44). If it determines that the product is not a pharmaceutical product (No. in S44), the control unit 300 transmits the product information of the product to the self-service POS terminal 1 (S45). Then the control unit 300 returns to S41.

[0066] Furthermore, if it is determined that the product is a pharmaceutical product (Yes in S44), the counting means 303, as shown in Figure 5, if the terminal code is not stored in the pharmaceutical management unit 332, registers (stores) a new terminal code in the terminal code unit 3321, registers the acquired product information in the product information unit 3322, and stores the quantity of the pharmaceutical product "1" in the counting unit 3323 (S46). If the terminal code is already stored in the pharmaceutical management unit 332, if the product is a new pharmaceutical product, it registers the product information in the product information unit 3322 and stores the quantity "1" in the counting unit 3323 (S46), and for pharmaceutical products already registered in the product information unit 3322, it increments the quantity in the counting unit 3323 by 1 (S46).

[0067] Next, the excess determination means 304 determines whether the number stored in the quantity unit 3323 exceeds the limit number stored in the limit number unit 3425 of the product master 322 (S47). The determination of whether the excess has been exceeded by the excess determination means 304 may be made by comparing the number of individual pharmaceuticals with the limit number, or, if similar pharmaceuticals are stored in the efficacy similarity unit 3426, the similar pharmaceuticals may be treated as the same type as the pharmaceutical in question, and the determination may be made by comparing the total number of the pharmaceutical and similar pharmaceuticals with the limit number. Which method is used to determine the number of pharmaceuticals, or whether both are used, can be changed, for example, in the settings. If it is determined that the limit number has been exceeded (Yes in S47), the output means 305 transmits the product information of the product and call information indicating that a store clerk should be called to the self-service POS terminal 1 (S48). Then the control unit 300 returns to S41.

[0068] Furthermore, if it is determined that the limit quantity has not been exceeded (No in S47), the drug determination means 302 determines whether the drug in the acquired product information is a Class 1 drug (S51). If it is determined to be a Class 1 drug (Yes in S51), the output means 305 transmits the product information of the product and call information indicating that a pharmacist (who is also a store employee) should be called to the self-POS terminal 1 (S52). Then the control unit 300 returns to S41.

[0069] Furthermore, if it is determined that the product is not a Class 1 pharmaceutical (No in S51), the pharmaceutical determination means 302 determines whether the pharmaceutical product in the acquired product information is a Class 2 or Class 3 pharmaceutical (S53). If it is determined that the product is a Class 2 or Class 3 pharmaceutical (Yes in S53), the output means 305 transmits the product information of the product and call information indicating that a registered store clerk should be called to the self-POS terminal 1 (S54). The control unit 300 then returns to S41.

[0070] Furthermore, if it is determined that the drug is neither a Class II nor a Class III drug (No in S53), the drug determination means 302 searches the drug interaction information unit 324 based on the drug product information stored in the drug management unit 332 (specifically, the product information unit 3322) and determines whether there are any drug combinations that should not be taken together with the drug stored in the product information unit 3322 (S55). If it is determined that there are drug combinations that should not be taken together (Yes in S55), the output means 305 transmits the product information of the drug combinations that should not be taken together with the drug, and call information indicating that a registered store clerk should be called, to the self-POS terminal 1 (S56). The control unit 300 then returns to S41. Note that the determination in S55 may also be performed if Yes was determined in S51 and if Yes was determined in S53.

[0071] Furthermore, if it is determined that there are no drugs that should not be taken together (No in S55), the control unit 300 determines whether it has received sales information from the self-service POS terminal 1 (S57). If it determines that it has not received sales information, it returns to S41. If it determines that it has received sales information (Yes in S57), the control unit 300 cumulatively stores the received sales information in the sales information unit 331 (S58). Then the control unit 300 returns to S41.

[0072] According to this server 3, if a customer attempts to purchase more than the permitted quantity of medicine, it sends a call message to the self-service POS terminal 1 to summon a store employee. This makes it possible to prevent the purchase of medicines for purposes other than their intended use at stores that sell medicines and have installed the self-service POS terminal 1. Furthermore, if a customer attempts to purchase more than the permitted quantity of medicines, including similar medicines, it also sends a call message to the self-service POS terminal 1 to summon a store employee. This makes it possible to prevent the purchase of medicines for purposes other than their intended use at stores that sell medicines and have installed the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0073] Furthermore, according to this server 3, when purchasing Category 1 pharmaceuticals, face-to-face sales with a pharmacist are possible, and when purchasing Category 2 and Category 3 pharmaceuticals, face-to-face sales with a registered store employee are possible.

[0074] Furthermore, such a server 3 can determine drug interactions between medications purchased by a customer, thereby preventing adverse effects from drug interactions.

[0075] As described above, the server 3 of the embodiment includes an acquisition means 301 for acquiring product identification information to identify products to be sold in the store, a pharmaceutical product determination means 302 for determining whether the product in the product identification information acquired by the acquisition means 301 is a pharmaceutical product, a counting means 303 for counting the number of pharmaceutical products determined by the pharmaceutical product determination means 302 by type of pharmaceutical product, an excess determination means 304 for determining which type of pharmaceutical product the count value of the counting means 303 exceeds the limited quantity, and an output means 305 for outputting call information to call a store employee when the excess determination means 304 determines that an excess has occurred.

[0076] In this embodiment, the server 3 sends a call information to the self-service POS terminal 1 to summon a store employee if an attempt is made to purchase more than the limited quantity of medicine. This makes it possible to prevent the purchase of medicine for purposes other than its intended use at stores that sell medicine and have installed the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0077] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0078] For example, in this embodiment, the server 3 was described as an example of an information processing device. However, the system is not limited to this, and the self-service POS terminal 1 may also be described as an example of an information processing device. In this case, the pharmaceutical management unit 332 and the product identification information unit 333 are provided by the self-service POS terminal 1. The product master 322 and customer master 323 may be provided by the self-service POS terminal 1, but they may also be provided by other devices.

[0079] Furthermore, although the embodiment described determining whether the limit is exceeded by adding the number of similar drugs to the number of pharmaceutical drugs, it is not essential to add the number of similar drugs to the number of pharmaceutical drugs when making this determination.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the drug determination means 302 is configured to determine whether a drug is a Class 1 drug, a Class 2 drug, or a Class 3 drug. However, it is not essential that the drug determination means 302 determines whether a drug is a Class 1 drug, a Class 2 drug, or a Class 3 drug.

[0081] In this embodiment, the call process involves turning on or flashing the patrol lamp 22 and transmitting information to the attendant PC 5. However, the call process is not limited to this, and either turning on or flashing the patrol lamp 22 or transmitting information to the attendant PC 5 may be performed.

[0082] The program executed on server 3 in this embodiment is provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

[0083] Furthermore, the program executed on the server 3 of the embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network L such as the Internet and provided by downloading it via the network L. Alternatively, the program executed on the server 3 of the embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network L such as the Internet.

[0084] Alternatively, the program to be executed on the server 3 of this embodiment may be pre-installed and provided in a ROM 32 or the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 1 Self-service POS terminal 3 servers 5 Attendant PC 17 Control section 18 Display 20 Scanners 22 Police lights 100 Control Unit 131 Product Information Department 133 Customer Information Department 142 Terminal Code Section 300 Control Unit 301 Acquisition method 302 Drug Identification Methods 303 Counting means 304 Excess judgment means 305 Output means 306 Judgment means 332 Pharmaceutical Management Department 333 Product Specific Information Department 342 Product Master 343 Customer Master 0003 Product specific information 0004 Product specific information 0005 Product specific information 0006 Product specific information 3321 Terminal Code Section 3322 Product Information Department 3323 Quantity section 3421 Product Code Section 3422 Product name section 3424 Category Section 3425 Limited number section 3426 Similarities in efficacy 3431 Customer Code Department 3432 Customer Name Department 3434 Purchase History Section [Prior art documents] [Chartered documents]

[0086]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. A means of obtaining product identification information to identify products sold in stores, A pharmaceutical determination means that determines whether the product of the product identification information acquired by the acquisition means is a pharmaceutical product, A counting means for counting the number of pharmaceuticals determined by the pharmaceutical determination means, by type of pharmaceutical, An excess determination means for determining which type of pharmaceutical product the count value of the counting means exceeds a predetermined number, When the excess determination means determines that an excess has been exceeded, an output means outputs call information to call a store employee, Equipped with an information processing device.

2. The information processing device is a server connected to a self-service sales data processing device that performs product registration processing related to the pharmaceutical product, The acquisition means acquires the product identification information relating to the pharmaceutical product obtained by the self-service sales data processing device reading the symbol attached to the product, The output means transmits the call information to the self-service sales data processing device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The counting means counts pharmaceuticals with the same product identification information as the number of pharmaceuticals of the same type obtained. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The excess determination means determines which types of pharmaceuticals exceed the predetermined number based on the total number of pharmaceuticals of the same efficacy, even if they are from different manufacturers, that have been counted by the counting means as the same type of pharmaceutical. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The acquisition means further comprises a drug interaction determination means for determining whether there are any drugs that should not be taken with the acquired drug, The output means outputs call information to call a store employee when the drug interaction determination means determines that there are drugs that should not be taken together. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The aforementioned drug identification means determines, based on the acquired product identification information, whether the product is a Class 1 drug, a Class 2 drug, or a Class 3 drug. If the output means determines that the product is a Class 1 pharmaceutical product, it outputs call information to summon a pharmacist; if it determines that the product is a Class 2 or Class 3 pharmaceutical product, it transmits call information to the self-service sales data processing device to summon a registered store employee. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

7. The aforementioned information processing device is a self-service sales data processing device that performs product registration processing related to the pharmaceutical product. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. Computers as information processing devices, A means of obtaining product identification information to identify products sold in stores, A pharmaceutical determination means that determines whether the product of the product identification information acquired by the acquisition means is a pharmaceutical product, A counting means for counting the number of pharmaceuticals determined by the pharmaceutical determination means, by type of pharmaceutical, An excess determination means for determining which type of pharmaceutical product the count value of the counting means exceeds a predetermined number, When the excess determination means determines that an excess has been exceeded, an output means outputs call information to call a store employee, A program that can be made to function.

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