Registered payment device and its control program

Abstract

This reduces the payment time per customer and increases the turnover rate of the registration device. [Solution] The checkout system comprises a registration device operated by a store employee to register purchased items, and a payment device operated by a customer to settle the purchase of purchased items. The registration device has a first selection means, a transmission means, and a payment means. The first selection means allows the customer to select a payment method while the store employee is registering the purchased items. The transmission means, in response to the store employee's registration of purchased items, transmits payment information to the payment device if the first selection means has selected a payment method including cash. The payment means, in response to the completion of the store employee's registration of purchased items, performs the payment using the selected payment method if the first selection means has selected a payment method that does not include cash.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a registration device used in a semi-self checkout system and a control program for this device.

Background Art

[0002] As a checkout system for mass retailers such as supermarkets, a semi-self type system is known. In this system, each process of registering purchased goods and settlement is performed by different registration devices and settlement devices. The operation of the registration device is performed by an employee, and the operation of the settlement device is performed by a shopper. In such a system, settlement information for settlement processing is transferred from the registration device to an available settlement device.

[0003] In recent years, electronic payment services using media such as IC cards and smartphones have become widely popular. An electronic payment service is one in which payment for the price of goods or services is made by the transfer of electronic monetary value. Electronic monetary value is generally referred to as electronic money. With the spread of such electronic payment services, many stores are promoting the introduction of settlement devices compatible with electronic payment services.

[0004] Electronic payment services include a prepaid method, so-called prepaid, and a postpaid method, so-called postpaid. In the case of the prepaid method, users of the electronic payment service need to deposit electronic money in advance. Depositing electronic money is generally referred to as charging.

[0005] While the checkout system's registration device cannot handle cash, it can be compatible with this electronic payment service. Therefore, attempts are being made to enable electronic payment services in the checkout system's registration device. This allows shoppers to complete payments at the registration device, eliminating the need to move to a separate payment terminal, thus improving customer convenience. On the other hand, processing payments at the checkout system's registration device increases the time shoppers spend in the store.

[0006] Once all items to be purchased have been registered and it's time to make a payment, if the customer chooses to pay using prepaid electronic money, the registration device reads the available balance (charged amount) from an electronic media such as an IC card or smartphone, or retrieves it by querying the electronic money center. If the available balance obtained here is insufficient to cover the total payment amount, the customer must choose to cancel the electronic money payment and switch to another payment method, cancel the electronic money payment and charge the electronic money at the payment device, or pay the full amount of the electronic money balance and pay the remaining balance using another payment method, in order to continue the transaction. Thus, when payment cannot be made with electronic money due to insufficient available funds, the customer is required to make a choice, which further increases the time the customer spends at the store.

[0007] Patent Document 1 proposes obtaining the available payment amount prior to starting the registration process in the registration device, but this technology does not contribute to reducing the time shoppers spend in stores when the available payment amount is insufficient. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 01-276394 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] The problem that embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a checkout system that can reduce the payment time per shopper and increase the turnover rate of the registration device, as well as a registration device used in this system and a control program for causing a computer to function as the registration device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In one embodiment, the checkout system includes a registration device operated by a store clerk to register purchased items, and a payment device operated by a shopper to settle the purchase of the purchased items. The registration device has a first selection means, a transmission means, and a payment means. The first selection means allows the shopper to select a payment method while the store clerk is registering the purchased items. The transmission means, in response to the store clerk's registration of purchased items, transmits payment information to the payment device if the first selection means has selected a payment method including cash. The payment means, in response to the completion of the store clerk's registration of purchased items, performs the payment using the selected payment method if the first selection means has selected a payment method that does not include cash. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of a checkout system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration device, which constitutes part of the checkout system. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram showing the flag memory formed in the main memory of the registration device. [Figure 4] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a payment device that constitutes part of the checkout system. [Figure 5] A flowchart illustrating the outline of the control processing procedures performed by the processor of the registered device. [Figure 6A] This diagram shows the first part of a flowchart illustrating an example of the registration process performed by the processor of the registration device. [Figure 6B] This diagram shows the second part of a flowchart illustrating an example of the registration process performed by the processor of the registration device. [Figure 6C] This diagram shows the third part of a flowchart illustrating an example of the registration process performed by the processor of the registration device. [Figure 7A] This diagram shows the first part of a flowchart illustrating an example of the customer processing procedure performed by the processor of the registration device. [Figure 7B] This diagram shows the second part of a flowchart illustrating an example of the customer processing procedure performed by the processor of the registration device. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing an example of the first selection screen displayed on the customer touch panel of the registration device. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram showing an example of a notification screen displayed on the customer touch panel of a registration device. [Figure 10] A schematic diagram showing an example of the second selection screen displayed on the customer touch panel of the registration device. [Figure 11] A schematic diagram showing an example of the third selection screen displayed on the customer touch panel of the registration device. [Figure 12] A flowchart illustrating an example of the payment processing procedure performed by the payment device's processor. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The following describes, with reference to the drawings, an embodiment of a checkout system and a registration device used in this system that can reduce the payment time per shopper and increase the turnover rate of the registration device.

[0013] In this embodiment, a semi-self checkout system introduced in retail stores such as supermarkets is exemplified. The semi-self checkout system includes a registration device that a store clerk registers the purchased items of a shopper and generates settlement information, and a settlement device that settles the transaction by a payment method such as cash, electronic money, credit card, etc. based on the settlement information generated by this registration device. The registration device and the settlement device are installed separately, and the operation is such that the store clerk operates the registration device and the shopper operates the settlement device. And the settlement device has an electronic money recharge function.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a checkout system 1 according to this embodiment. The checkout system 1 includes a plurality of registration devices 10 and settlement devices 20. The registration devices 10 and the settlement devices 20 are arranged for each checkout lane in the store. Note that FIG. 1 shows a case where the number of settlement devices 20 is more than the number of registration devices 10. The number of settlement devices 20 connected to the registration device 10 may be one.

[0015] FIG. 1 shows a case where two registration devices 10 and six settlement devices 20 are arranged in two checkout lanes. In FIG. 1, one registration device 10 and three settlement devices 20 (20-1, 20-2, 20-3) are arranged for one checkout lane. The number of registration devices 10 and settlement devices 20 included in the checkout system 1 respectively is arbitrary. Also, the ratio of the number of registration devices 10 and settlement devices 20 arranged in the checkout lane is arbitrary.

[0016] A store clerk 30 who plays the role called a checker serves as the operator of the registration device 10. A shopper 40 who purchases the goods sold in the store serves as the operator of the settlement device 20. That is, the checkout system 1 is a semi-self type.

[0017] In Figure 1, the registration device 10 is attached to the work table 50. The work table 50 has a rectangular tabletop. Multiple work tables 50 are arranged so that the longitudinal directions of their tabletops are approximately parallel, forming a passageway for shoppers 40, a so-called checkout lane.

[0018] The registration device 10 has the functions of registering purchased items, generating payment information, and transmitting payment information to the payment device 20. Registering purchased items means registering the items purchased by the shopper 40 as purchased items in the registration device 10. For example, by scanning the barcode of the product code attached to the item with a scanner, sales data for the item identified by that product code is registered. The sales data includes the product code, the name of the item identified by that product code, the quantity and unit price, and the amount obtained by multiplying the unit price by the quantity. The payment information is data related to the accounting of purchased items registered as a single transaction and is used for payment processing in the payment device 20. The payment information includes at least the sales data for each purchased item.

[0019] The payment device 20 has the functions of receiving payment information, transferring payment information to other payment devices 20, and processing payments. Payment processing is the process of settling a transaction, which is a buying and selling of goods, based on the payment information. Cash, credit cards, electronic money, etc., are used as payment methods for payments. When the payment device 20 receives payment information from the registration device 10 or other payment devices 20, it processes the settlement of the transaction based on that payment information.

[0020] In addition, gift certificates and other monetary vouchers may be used as payment methods. When payment is made with monetary vouchers, the store clerk 30 needs to verify the vouchers. For this reason, the registration device 10 also has a payment processing function and can process payments by credit card, electronic money, and monetary vouchers, that is, payments that do not involve handling cash, on its own.

[0021] Although not shown in the diagram, both the registration device 10 and the payment device 20 are connected to a local area network (LAN). A server (not shown) is connected to the LAN. The server has a product database in which product information such as product name and unit price is set, associated with the product code of each product. Information is exchanged between the registration device 10 and the payment device 20, or between the payment device 20 and other payment devices 20, via the LAN. Alternatively, information may be exchanged between the registration device 10 and the payment device 20 via the server. The network may be a different communication network such as the internet or wireless LAN instead of a LAN.

[0022] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration device 10. The registration device 10 comprises a processor 101, main memory 102, auxiliary storage device 103, communication unit 104, keyboard 105, scanner 106, touch panel 107, customer touch panel 108, printer 110, drawer opening mechanism 111, and system transmission line 112. The system transmission line 112 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 112 interconnects the processor 101, main memory 102, auxiliary storage device 103, communication unit 104, keyboard 105, scanner 106, touch panel 107, customer touch panel 108, reader / writer 109, printer 110, and drawer opening mechanism 111. The computer of the registration device 10 is configured by connecting the processor 101, main memory 102, and auxiliary storage device 103 via the system transmission line 112.

[0023] The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 101 controls each part in order to realize various functions as a registration device 10 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 101 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0024] Main memory 102 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 102 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 102 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 102 may also store data necessary for the processor 101 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 102 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 101. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0025] The volatile memory area of ​​main memory 102 includes areas to be used as flag memory (abbreviated as FGM in Figure 2) 102F and electronic money charge amount memory (abbreviated as CHM in Figure 2) 102C. Flag memory 102F is used to store flags corresponding to the payment method selected by the shopper 40. Electronic money charge amount memory 102C is used to store the amount of electronic money that the shopper intends to use. The volatile memory area can also include an area to be used as a registration table where sales data of purchased items is registered.

[0026] The auxiliary storage device 103 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 103. The auxiliary storage device 103 stores data used by the processor 101 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 101, etc. The auxiliary storage device 103 may also store the application program described above.

[0027] The application programs stored in the main memory 102 or auxiliary storage device 103 include registration programs that describe information processing to be performed by the registration device 10. The method of installing the registration programs in the main memory 102 or auxiliary storage device 103 is not particularly limited. The registration programs can be installed in the main memory 102 or auxiliary storage device 103 by recording them on a removable recording medium or by distributing them via network communication. The recording medium can be of any form as long as it can store programs and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0028] The communication unit 104 communicates data with the payment device 20 connected via the LAN. The communication unit 104 can also communicate data with other registration devices 10 and servers connected via the LAN.

[0029] Keyboard 105 is a keyboard specifically designed for the registration device, featuring well-known keys such as a numeric keypad, subtotal key, cancel key, and clear key. Keyboard 105 may also be a general-purpose keyboard equipped with a numeric keypad, to which functions such as the subtotal key, cancel key, and clear key are assigned.

[0030] Scanner 106 reads code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional data codes. Scanner 106 may be a type that reads code symbols by scanning with a laser beam, or a type that reads code symbols from images captured by an imaging device.

[0031] The touch panel 107 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 107 displays information to the store clerk 30, who is the operator of the registration device 10, and accepts operation input from the store clerk 30.

[0032] These keyboard 105, scanner 106, and touch panel 107 constitute an input / output device for the store clerk 30 to register purchased items.

[0033] The customer touch panel 108, like the touch panel 107, is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The customer touch panel 108 displays information to a shopper 40 who has registered the items to be purchased in the registration device 10, and accepts operation input from the shopper 40. The customer touch panel 108 functions as a first selection means and a second selection means.

[0034] The reader / writer 109 has the function of reading data recorded on a medium such as a card or smartphone, and the function of writing data to the aforementioned medium. The card may include payment cards such as credit cards, debit cards, electronic money cards, and prepaid cards, as well as membership cards such as membership cards and point cards. The reader / writer 208 may be a magnetic, contact, or contactless device, or may include multiple types of devices.

[0035] The printer 110 issues receipts by printing various text strings or images onto receipt paper. Examples of this type of printer 110 include thermal printers and dot matrix printers.

[0036] The drawer opening mechanism 111 opens the drawer for storing cash or monetary vouchers such as gift certificates or coupons.

[0037] For the hardware of such a registration device 10, for example, an existing POS (Point of Sales) terminal can be used.

[0038] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the flag memory 102F. As shown in Figure 3, the flag memory 102F stores the first flag FG1 and the second flag FG2. Each flag is a 2-bit flag.

[0039] The first flag, FG1, is a payment method flag indicating what payment method shopper 40 has selected. A flag value of "00" indicates that the payment method is cash. A flag value of "01" indicates that the payment method is electronic money. A flag value of "10" indicates that the payment method is credit. A flag value of "11" indicates that the payment method is a gift certificate.

[0040] The second flag FG2 is an electronic money flag that indicates whether electronic money will be used in combination with other payment methods when electronic money is selected as the payment method. A flag value of "00" indicates that payment can be made using electronic money alone. A flag value of "01" indicates that electronic money will be charged, or that electronic money will be used in combination with cash, i.e., that payment device 20 will be used. A flag value of "10" indicates that electronic money will be used in combination with credit. A flag value of "11" indicates that electronic money will be used in combination with gift certificates.

[0041] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment device 20. The payment device 20 comprises a processor 201, main memory 202, auxiliary storage device 203, communication unit 204, scanner 205, touch panel 206, printer 207, reader / writer 208, change dispenser 209, and system transmission line 210. The system transmission line 210 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 210 interconnects the processor 201 with the main memory 202, auxiliary storage device 203, communication unit 204, scanner 205, touch panel 206, printer 207, reader / writer 208, and change dispenser 209. The computer of the payment device 20 is formed by the connection of the processor 201, main memory 202, and auxiliary storage device 203 via the system transmission line 210.

[0042] The processor 201 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 201 controls each part in order to realize various functions as a payment device 20 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 201 is, for example, a CPU.

[0043] Main memory 202 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 202 includes non-volatile memory areas and volatile memory areas. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 202 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 202 may also store data necessary for the processor 201 to perform processing to control each part in non-volatile or volatile memory areas. Main memory 202 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as needed by the processor 201. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0044] The auxiliary storage device 203 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 203. The auxiliary storage device 203 stores data used by the processor 201 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 201, etc. The auxiliary storage device 203 may also store the application program described above.

[0045] The application program stored in the main memory 202 or auxiliary storage device 203 includes a control program, or so-called settlement program, that describes the information processing performed by the settlement device 20. The method of installing the settlement program in the main memory 202 or auxiliary storage device 203 is not particularly limited. The settlement program can be installed in the main memory 202 or auxiliary storage device 203 by recording it on a removable recording medium or by distributing the settlement program via communication over a network. The recording medium can be of any form as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0046] The communication unit 204 communicates data with the registration device 10, which is connected via the LAN. The communication unit 204 can also communicate data with other payment devices 20 and servers, which are connected via the LAN.

[0047] Scanner 205 reads code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional data codes. Scanner 205 may be a type that reads code symbols by scanning with a laser beam, or a type that reads code symbols from images captured by an imaging device.

[0048] The touch panel 206 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 206 displays information to the shopper, who is the operator of the payment device 20, and accepts operation input from the shopper.

[0049] The printer 207 issues receipts by printing various text strings or images onto receipt paper. Examples of this type of printer 207 include thermal printers and dot matrix printers.

[0050] The reader / writer 208 has the function of reading data recorded on a medium such as a card or smartphone, and the function of writing data to the aforementioned medium. The card may include payment cards such as credit cards, debit cards, electronic money cards, and prepaid cards, as well as membership cards such as membership cards and point cards. The reader / writer 208 may be a magnetic, contact, or contactless device, or may include multiple types of devices.

[0051] The change machine 209 receives the coins and banknotes that are inserted. The change machine 209 also dispenses the coins and banknotes as change.

[0052] As hardware for such a payment device 20, for example, a POS terminal compatible with existing self-checkout systems, also known as a self-checkout register, can be used.

[0053] The operation of the checkout system according to this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 5 to 12. Note that the operation described using Figures 5 to 12 is an example. The operation procedure and content are not particularly limited as long as similar results can be obtained.

[0054] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an overview of the control processing procedure performed by the processor 101 of the registration device 10 according to the registration program. When the registration device 10 is started up, the processor 101 starts the registration process as shown on the left side of Figure 5. The processor 101 waits for the product code of the purchased product to be registered as ActA1 to be obtained. If the product code is obtained, the processor 101 determines YES in ActA1 and proceeds to ActA2. The processor 101 performs product registration based on the product code as ActA2. After that, the processor 101 calculates the total amount of all purchased products registered as ActA3. Then, the processor 101 determines as ActA4 whether the subtotal key on the keyboard 105 was operated by the store clerk 30. If the subtotal key was not operated, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA4 and returns to ActA1.

[0055] Furthermore, when the processor 101 calculates the total amount, it initiates customer processing as shown on the right in Figure 5 via an interrupt. This customer processing is the process of allowing the shopper 40 to select a payment method. As ActB1, the processor 101 displays a customer screen on the customer touch panel 108 that includes the calculated total amount and options for the shopper to select a payment method. Subsequently, as ActB2, the processor 101 determines whether the shopper 40 has touched the customer touch panel 108 and selected a payment method. If no payment method is selected, the processor 101 determines NO in ActB2 and returns to ActB1. If the shopper 40 has selected a payment method, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB2 and proceeds to ActB3. As ActB3, the processor 101 saves the payment method selected by the shopper 40 to the flag memory 102F of the main memory 102. Subsequently, the processor 101 returns to ActB1.

[0056] In this way, the store clerk 30 repeatedly registers the purchased items until the subtotal key on the keyboard 105 is pressed by the clerk 30. During this time, the total amount is updated, and the customer 40 selects a payment method using the customer touch panel 108.

[0057] Then, when the store clerk 30 operates the subtotal key on the keyboard 105, the processor 101 determines YES in ActA4 and proceeds to ActA5. In ActA5, the processor 101 reads the payment method selected by the shopper 40 stored in the flag memory 102F of the main memory 102. Then, in ActA6, the processor 101 performs the settlement corresponding to the selected payment method. That is, if a payment method that does not handle cash is selected, the processor 101 performs the settlement process at the registration device 10, and if a payment method that handles cash is selected, it sends the settlement information to the settlement device 20.

[0058] The registration process and customer interaction process shown in Figure 5 will be described in detail below. Figures 6A to 6C are flowcharts showing an example of the registration process procedure performed by the processor 101 of the registration device 10. Figures 7A and 7B are flowcharts showing an example of the customer interaction process procedure performed by the processor 101 of the registration device 10. Figures 8 to 11 are schematic diagrams showing examples of customer interaction screens displayed on the customer touch panel 108.

[0059] When the processor 101 starts the registration process, it clears the flag memory 102F and the electronic money charge amount memory 102C in the main memory 102, as well as the registration table in which the sales data of purchased items is registered, as ActA101. As a result, the flag values ​​of the first flag FG1 and the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F become "00".

[0060] Next, as ActA102, the processor 101 displays a registration screen on the touch panel 107 for registering purchased items. Then, as ActA103, the processor 101 checks whether the subtotal key on the keyboard 105 has been touched by the store clerk 30, who is the operator of the registration device 10. If the subtotal key has not been touched, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA103 and proceeds to ActA104. As ActA104, the processor 101 checks whether the barcode attached to the product has been read by the scanner 106 and the product code has been obtained. If the product code has not been obtained, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA104 and returns to ActA103.

[0061] When the product code is obtained, the processor 101 determines YES in ActA104 and proceeds to ActA105. In ActA105, the processor 101 registers the purchased product. That is, the processor 101 controls the communication unit 104 to send the product code to the server. When the communication unit 104 receives the product name and unit price of the product identified by that product code from the server, the processor 101 creates sales data based on that information and registers it in the registration table in main memory 102. If the same product code as a product that has already been registered is obtained, the processor does not query the server, but instead increases the quantity by one in the sales data of the corresponding product in the registration table and updates the amount obtained by multiplying the unit price by the quantity.

[0062] Processor 101 also calculates the total number of items and the total amount of purchased items registered during the registration period based on the sales data registered in the registered product table as ActA106. Then, processor 101 updates the registration screen displayed on touch panel 107 to match the contents of the registered product table after the sales data has been registered. Processor 101 also requests the customer processing, which is running as a separate routine, to update the display on the customer screen as ActA108. This update request includes data showing the total number of items and the total amount of purchased items registered during the registration period. If the electronic money charge amount is stored in the electronic money charge amount memory 102C, the update request also includes data showing that charge amount. Then processor 101 returns to ActA103.

[0063] If the processor 101 has not yet started customer processing, it will start customer processing in response to the update request in ActA108. Then, the processor 101 will display the first selection screen on the customer touch panel 108 as ActB101.

[0064] As shown in Figure 8, the first selection screen displays the total number of items and total amount of purchases registered during the registration period, as well as the charge amount, which is the amount available for payment with electronic money, as the electronic money balance. Furthermore, the first selection screen includes multiple button images for selecting a payment method. The button images indicate the areas on the customer touch panel 108 screen that the shopper 40 touches. The button images are displayed as rectangles, mimicking mechanical button switches. If the electronic money charge amount has not yet been acquired, the button image for selecting electronic money as a payment method is displayed in a distinguishable form, such as by being a lighter color than the other buttons, to indicate that it is not accepted.

[0065] Next, as ActB102, processor 101 checks whether the shopper 40 has touched the position of the [Check Electronic Money Balance] button image on the first selection screen. If the position of the button image is not touched, processor 101 determines NO in ActB102 and proceeds to ActB103. As ActB103, processor 101 checks whether it has received a customer profile update request from the registration processing routine. If it has not received a customer profile update request, processor 101 determines NO in ActB103 and proceeds to ActB104. As ActB104, processor 101 checks whether it has received a customer profile notification request from the registration processing routine. If it has not received a customer profile notification request, processor 101 determines NO in ActB104 and returns to ActB101.

[0066] When the processor receives a customer information update request from the registration processing routine, it determines YES in ActB103 and proceeds to ActB105. In ActB105, the processor updates the total number of items purchased, the total amount, and the electronic money balance on the first selection screen. After that, in ActB106, the processor checks whether the flag value of the first flag FG1, which is the payment method flag in the flag memory 102F, is "01", indicating that electronic money payment has been selected. If the flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F is not "01", the processor checks NO in ActB106 and proceeds to ActB107. In ActB107, the processor checks whether the shopper 40 has touched any of the button images for selecting the payment method on the first selection screen. If the electronic money charge amount has not yet been obtained, the processor 101 checks the position relative to the [Cash] button image, the [Credit] button image, and the [Voucher] button image. If the electronic money charge amount has already been obtained, the processor 101 checks the position relative to the [Cash] button image, the [Credit] button image, the [Voucher] button image, and the [Electronic Money] button image. If no position relative to any of the button images is touched, the processor 101 determines NO in ActB107 and returns to ActB101.

[0067] When the shopper 40 touches one of the button images for selecting a payment method on the first selection screen, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB107 and proceeds to ActB108. In ActB108, the processor 101 checks whether the touched location is the location of the [Cash] button image, that is, whether the payment method selected by the shopper 40 is cash payment. If cash payment is selected as the payment method, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB108. The flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F is initially cleared to "00" in ActA101 of the registration processing routine, indicating that the payment method is cash. When the processor 101 determines YES in ActB108, it returns to ActB101 without rewriting the flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F.

[0068] After the payment method has been selected, the processor 101 displays the button image selected by the shopper 40 as the payment method on the first selection screen in a distinguishable manner from the button images for other payment methods that have not been selected, for example, by changing the color.

[0069] In the registration process routine, if cash payment is selected as the payment method, and the subtotal key on the keyboard 105 is touched by the store clerk 30, who is the operator of the registration device 10, the processor 101 determines YES in ActA103 and proceeds to ActA109. In ActA109, the processor 101 generates payment information based on the registration data of purchased items registered in the registration table in main memory 102. Then, in ActA110, the processor 101 checks the contents of the flag memory 102F in main memory 102. The processor 101 then determines whether the flag value of the first flag FG1 in flag memory 102F is "00", which indicates cash payment. If the flag value of the first flag FG1 is "00", the processor 101 determines YES in ActA111 and proceeds to ActA112.

[0070] Processor 101, as ActA112, displays a destination selection screen on the touch panel 107, allowing the operator (store clerk) to select which payment device 20 to transfer the payment information to. Then, as ActA113, Processor 101 waits for the store clerk 30 to specify the destination payment device 20. Once the destination payment device 20 is specified, Processor 101 determines YES in ActA113 and proceeds to ActA114. As ActA114, Processor 101 controls the communication unit 104 to send the payment information to the specified destination payment device 20. In this way, the computer, with Processor 101 as the main component, functions as a transmission means. Subsequently, as ActA115, Processor 101 displays a notification screen on the touch panel 107 indicating that the payment information has been sent to the destination payment device 20. Furthermore, as ActA116, the processor 101 issues a customer notification request to the customer processing, which is running as a separate routine, instructing it to display a notification screen on the customer screen. This customer notification request includes information indicating the number of items purchased and the total payment amount, as well as information indicating which payment device 20 the payment information will be transferred to. The processor 101 then returns to ActA101 and prepares to process the next customer 40.

[0071] In the customer processing routine, when the processor 101 receives a request from the registration processing routine to display a notification screen on the customer screen, it determines YES in ActB104 and proceeds to ActB109. In ActB109, the processor 101 displays a notification screen, as shown in Figure 9, on the customer touch panel 108 for a predetermined time, such as 15 seconds, allowing the shopper 40 sufficient time to review the screen content. After that, the processor 101 terminates this customer screen processing. A [Terminate] button image may be provided on the notification screen so that the shopper 40 can terminate the notification screen at any time. If the processor 101 receives a request from the registration processing routine to update the customer screen before the predetermined time has elapsed, it can return to ActB101 without terminating this customer screen processing.

[0072] Next, we will explain payment methods other than cash. First, we will explain credit card payments or payment using gift certificates.

[0073] In the customer processing routine, if cash payment is not selected as the payment method, processor 101 determines NO in ActB108 and proceeds to ActB110. In ActB110, processor 101 checks whether the touched location is the location of the [Electronic Money] button image, that is, whether the payment method selected by shopper 40 is electronic money payment. If electronic money is not selected as the payment method, processor 101 determines NO in ActB110 and proceeds to ActB111.

[0074] Processor 101, in ActB111, checks whether the touched location is the location of the [Credit] button image, that is, whether the payment method selected by shopper 40 is credit payment. If credit payment is selected as the payment method, processor 101 determines YES in ActB111 and proceeds to ActB112. In ActB112, processor 101 rewrites the flag value of the first flag FG1, which is the payment method flag in flag memory 102F, to "10" to indicate that the payment method is credit. After that, processor 101 returns to ActB101.

[0075] Furthermore, if credit payment is not selected as the payment method, processor 101 determines NO in ActB111 and proceeds to ActB113. In ActB113, processor 101 rewrites the flag value of the first flag FG1 in flag memory 102F to "11", indicating that the payment method is a gift certificate. After that, processor 101 returns to ActB101.

[0076] In the registration routine, if the flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F is not "00" which indicates cash payment, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA111 and proceeds to ActA117. In ActA117, the processor 101 determines whether the flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F is "10" which indicates credit payment. If the flag value of the first flag FG1 is "10", the processor 101 determines YES in ActA117 and proceeds to ActA118. In ActA118, the processor 101 uses the reader / writer 109 to perform the familiar payment processing using the credit card presented by the shopper 40, based on the payment information generated in ActA109. After that, the processor 101 causes the printer 110 to issue a receipt in ActA119. Then the processor 101 proceeds to ActA115 and displays a notification screen on the touch panel 107 indicating that the payment has been completed. Furthermore, as ActA116, processor 101 issues a customer notification request to the customer processing routine, which is running separately, to display a notification screen on the customer screen indicating that the payment has been completed.

[0077] In response to this customer notification request, the customer processing routine determines that the processor 101 is YES in ActB104 and proceeds to ActB109, where it displays a notification screen on the customer touch panel 108 indicating that the payment has been completed.

[0078] Furthermore, if the flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F is not "10", which indicates credit payment, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA117 and proceeds to ActA120. In ActA120, the processor 101 determines whether the flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F is "01", which indicates electronic money payment. If the flag value of the first flag FG1 is not "01", that is, "11", the processor 101 determines NO in ActA120 and proceeds to ActA121. In ActA121, the processor 101 performs the standard payment processing using gift certificates based on the payment information generated in ActA109. After that, the processor 101 proceeds to ActA119 and has the printer 110 issue a receipt.

[0079] Next, we will explain the case of electronic money payment. In order to make an electronic money payment, the amount of the electronic money balance must be known. Therefore, in the customer processing routine, the shopper 40 touches the position of the [Check Electronic Money Balance] button image on the first selection screen. In response, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB102 and proceeds to ActB114. In ActB114, the processor 101 reads the data recorded on the electronic money medium such as a card or smartphone using the reader / writer 109 and obtains the amount of the electronic money balance. Specifically, the processor 101 controls the communication unit 104 to query the server for the amount of the electronic money balance based on the data read from the electronic money medium. The server also manages its own store's own electronic money, and if the query is for the store's electronic money, it returns the balance to the registration device that made the inquiry. Furthermore, if the electronic money is of a type not managed by the server, the system queries the corresponding electronic money center based on the inquiry data from the registration device 10, retrieves the charge amount from that electronic money center, and returns it to the registration device that made the inquiry. The processor 101 retrieves the charge amount returned from the server via the communication unit 104 and stores it in the electronic money charge amount memory 102C of the main memory 102. In this way, the computer, with the processor 101 as the main component, functions as a means of retrieval. After that, the processor 101 proceeds to Act B 103 described above. Note that if the charge amount is stored in the electronic money medium and the data read by the reader / writer 109 includes the charge amount, the processor 101 does not need to query the server.

[0080] Once the electronic money charge amount is obtained, the [Electronic Money] button image on the first selection screen changes to the same display format as the other selection button images, and electronic money payment becomes selectable. Then, on the first selection screen, when the shopper 40 selects electronic money payment as the payment method, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB110 and proceeds to ActB115. In ActB115, the processor 101 rewrites the flag value of the first flag FG1, which is the payment method flag in the flag memory 102F, to "01" to indicate that the payment method is electronic money. After that, the processor 101 returns to ActB101.

[0081] Each time a purchased item is registered in the registration processing routine, the customer processing routine updates the first selection screen in ActB105. At this time, if electronic money payment is selected as the payment method, the flag value of the first flag FG1 in the flag memory 102F is "01". Therefore, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB106 and proceeds to ActB116. In ActB116, the processor 101 checks whether the total amount of purchased items included in the update request from the registration processing routine exceeds the electronic money charge amount stored in the electronic money charge amount memory 102C in the main memory 12. If the total amount is less than or equal to the charge amount, the processor 101 determines NO in ActB116. The flag value of the second flag FG2, which is the electronic money flag in the flag memory 102F, is initially cleared to "00" in ActA101 of the registration processing routine, indicating that payment can be made using only electronic money. When processor 101 determines NO in ActB116, it returns to ActB101 without overwriting the flag value of the second flag FG2 in flag memory 102F.

[0082] Furthermore, if the total amount exceeds the charge amount, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB116 and proceeds to ActB117. In ActB117, the processor 101 rewrites the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F to "01," indicating that electronic money will be charged, or that electronic money and cash will be used in combination, that is, that the payment device 20 will be used. This is to prevent the system from proceeding to electronic money payment even though it is not possible, because the operator (store clerk 30) operates the subtotal key on the keyboard 105 before the shopper 40 makes a selection. Then, in ActB118, the processor 101 displays the second selection screen on the customer touch panel 108. In this way, the computer, with the processor 101 as the main component, functions as a notification mechanism. Then, in ActB119, the processor 101 waits for the shopper 40 to make a selection.

[0083] As shown in Figure 10, the second selection screen, like the first selection screen, displays the total number of items and total amount of purchases registered during the registration period, as well as the electronic money balance. Furthermore, the second selection screen includes a message indicating that payment cannot be made solely with electronic money, along with multiple button images for selecting a payment method.

[0084] When the shopper 40 touches the location of one of the multiple button images for selecting a payment method, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB119 and proceeds to ActB120. In ActB120, the processor 101 checks whether the shopper 40 has instructed the shopper to select a different payment method by touching the location of the "[Select another payment method]" button image on the second selection screen. If the shopper has instructed the shopper to select a different payment method, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB120 and returns to ActB101, displaying the first selection screen on the customer touch panel 108. At this time, the "[Electronic Money]" button image for selecting electronic money payment is displayed to indicate that it cannot be selected. Also, if YES is determined in ActB120, the processor 101 may clear the flag values ​​of the first flag FG1, which is the payment method flag, and the second flag FG2, which is the electronic money flag, in the flag memory 102F to "00".

[0085] Furthermore, if no alternative payment method is selected, the processor 101 determines NO in ActB120 and proceeds to ActB121. In ActB121, the processor 101 checks whether the shopper 40 has touched the [Charge] button image on the second selection screen. If the [Charge] button image has been touched, the processor 101 determines YES in ActB121 and returns to ActB101, displaying the first selection screen on the customer touch panel 108. At this time, the [Electronic Money] button image for selecting electronic money payment is marked with a predetermined indicator, such as red or flashing, to show that payment is not possible with this button alone, and other buttons are marked in a way that indicates they cannot be selected. A message indicating that charging has been selected may also be displayed.

[0086] If the location corresponding to the [Charge] button image is not touched, that is, if the user is instructed to use it in conjunction with another payment method, the processor 101 determines NO in ActB121 and proceeds to ActB122. The processor 101 displays the third selection screen on the customer touch panel 108 as ActB122. Then, as with ActB119, the processor 101 waits for the shopper 40 to make a selection. Note that this waiting period is not illustrated in Figure 7B.

[0087] As shown in Figure 11, the third selection screen, like the first selection screen, displays the total number of items and total amount of purchases registered during the registration period, as well as the electronic money balance. Furthermore, the third selection screen includes multiple button images for selecting a payment method to be used in conjunction with electronic money.

[0088] Processor 101, in Act 123, checks whether the shopper 40 has touched the [Cash] button image on this third selection screen to confirm whether they have selected to use both electronic money and cash. If the shopper has selected to use both electronic money and cash, Processor 101 determines YES in Act B 123, returns to Act B 101, and displays the first selection screen on the customer touch panel 108. At this time, the [Electronic Money] button image for selecting electronic money payment and the [Cash] button image for the payment method to be used in combination are displayed in a predetermined way, such as orange or flashing, to indicate that they are being used together. In addition, the button images for payment methods other than electronic money and cash are displayed in a way that indicates they cannot be selected. Furthermore, a message indicating that using both has been selected may also be displayed.

[0089] If customer 40 touches a button image other than the [Cash] button image on the third selection screen, it means that the combined use of electronic money and cash has not been selected, so processor 101 determines NO in ActB123 and proceeds to ActB124. In ActB124, processor 101 checks whether customer 40 touches a button image on the third selection screen to confirm whether the combined use of electronic money and credit has been selected. If the combined use of electronic money and credit has been instructed, processor 101 determines YES in ActB124 and proceeds to ActB125. In ActB125, processor 101 rewrites the flag value of the second flag FG2, which is the electronic money flag in flag memory 102F, to "10", indicating that the combined use of electronic money and credit is being performed. After that, processor 101 returns to ActB101 and displays the first selection screen on the customer touch panel 108. At this time, the [Electronic Money] button image for selecting electronic money payment and the [Credit] button image for payment methods used in conjunction with it will be displayed in a predetermined way, such as orange or flashing, to indicate that they are being used together. In addition, the button images for payment methods other than electronic money and credit will be displayed in a way that indicates they cannot be selected. Furthermore, a message indicating that using both methods together has been selected may also be displayed.

[0090] Furthermore, if the shopper 40 does not touch the [Credit] button image on the third selection screen, but instead touches the [Gift Certificate] button image, indicating that electronic money and gift certificates are to be used together, the processor 101 determines NO in ActB124 and proceeds to ActB126. In ActB126, the processor 101 rewrites the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F to "11", indicating that electronic money and gift certificates are to be used together. After that, the processor 101 returns to ActB101 and displays the first selection screen on the customer touch panel 108. At this time, the [Electronic Money] button image for selecting electronic money payment and the [Gift Certificate] button image, which is the button for the payment method to be used together, are displayed in a predetermined way, such as orange or flashing, to indicate that they are to be used together. In addition, the button images for payment methods other than electronic money and gift certificates are displayed in a way that indicates they cannot be selected. Furthermore, a message indicating that using them together has been selected may also be displayed.

[0091] Thus, while the store clerk 30, who is the operator, is registering the purchased items using the registration device 10, the shopper 40 can specify using the customer touch panel 108 to use electronic money alone or in combination with other payment methods.

[0092] In the registration process routine, if electronic money payment is selected as the payment method, and the subtotal key on keyboard 105 is touched by the store clerk 30, who is the operator of the registration device 10, the processor 101 determines YES in ActA103 and proceeds to ActA109, ActA110, ActA111, ActA117, and ActA120. Then, if electronic money payment is selected as the payment method, the processor 101 determines YES in ActA120 and proceeds to ActA122.

[0093] Processor 101 determines, as ActA122, whether the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F is "00", indicating that payment is possible. If the flag value of the second flag FG2 is "00", processor 101 determines YES in ActA122 and proceeds to ActA123. Processor 101 performs the standard electronic money payment process based on the payment information generated in ActA109 as ActA123. For example, processor 101 controls communication unit 104 to send payment information to the server. If the electronic money to be paid is the store's own electronic money, the server performs payment processing based on the payment information and updates the charge amount of the electronic money it manages. If it is a type of electronic money not managed by the server, the server sends the payment information from registration device 10 to the electronic money center, and the electronic money center performs payment processing and updates the charge amount. Furthermore, if a charge amount is stored in the electronic money medium, the server transmits payment information to the electronic money center, instructing the center to process the payment and update the charge amount, and also instructing the registration device 10 to update the charge amount stored in the electronic money medium. When the processor 101 receives this charge amount update instruction from the communication unit 104, it uses the reader / writer 109 to write the updated charge amount to the electronic money medium. In this way, the computer, with the processor 101 as the main component, functions as a payment method. The processor 101 then proceeds to Act A 119, causing the printer 110 to issue a receipt.

[0094] Furthermore, if the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F is not "00" which indicates payment is possible, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA122 and proceeds to ActA124. In ActA124, the processor 101 determines whether the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F is "01" which indicates charging electronic money or using electronic money and cash together, that is, using the payment device 20. If the flag value of the second flag FG2 is "01", the processor 101 determines YES in ActA124 and proceeds to ActA125. In ActA125, the processor 101 performs the well-known electronic money payment process based on the payment information generated in ActA109. In this electronic money payment process, it is not possible to pay the entire total amount of purchased goods registered during the registration period, which is included in the payment information, with electronic money. Therefore, the processor 101 proceeds to ActA112, causing the store clerk 30 to select the payment device 20 to which the payment information will be transferred. Then, in ActA114, the processor 101 controls the communication unit 104 to send the payment information to the designated payment device 20. In this case, the processor 101 includes electronic money payment information in the payment information, indicating how much has been paid using electronic money. Then, in ActA115, the processor 101 displays a notification screen on the touch panel 107, and in ActA116, it sends a customer notification request to the customer processing, which is running as a separate routine, to display the notification screen on the customer screen.

[0095] Furthermore, if the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F is not "01", which indicates the use of the payment device 20, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA124 and proceeds to ActA126. In ActA126, the processor 101 determines whether the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F is "10", which indicates the use of both electronic money and credit. If the flag value of the second flag FG2 is "10", the processor 101 determines YES in ActA126 and proceeds to ActA127. In ActA127, the processor 101 performs the well-known electronic money payment process based on the payment information generated in ActA109. After that, the processor 101 proceeds to ActA128. In ActA128, the processor 101 performs the well-known credit card payment process. In other words, in the electronic money payment processing in ActA127, it is not possible to pay the entire total amount of purchased items registered during the registration period, which is included in the payment information, using electronic money. Therefore, in ActA128, the processor 101 pays the remaining amount using a credit card. After that, the processor 101 proceeds to ActA119, causing the printer 110 to issue a receipt.

[0096] Furthermore, if the flag value of the second flag FG2 in the flag memory 102F is not "10," which indicates the use of both electronic money and credit, and is instead "11," which indicates the use of both electronic money and gift certificates, the processor 101 determines NO in ActA126 and proceeds to ActA129. In ActA129, the processor 101 performs the standard electronic money payment process based on the payment information generated in ActA109. After that, the processor 101 proceeds to ActA121 and performs the standard gift certificate payment process. That is, in the electronic money payment process in ActA129, it is not possible to pay the entire total amount of purchased items registered during the registration period, which is included in the payment information, with electronic money. Therefore, in ActA121, the processor 101 pays the remaining amount with gift certificates. After that, the processor 101 proceeds to ActA119 and has the printer 110 issue a receipt.

[0097] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the payment processing procedure performed by the processor 201 of the payment device 20. When the payment device 20 is started up, the processor 201 displays a standby screen on the touch panel 206 as Act 21. The standby screen indicates that the device is not in a position to perform payment processing, and the information displayed on it can be arbitrary. For example, the standby screen may display a message indicating that payment processing cannot be performed, or it may display an arbitrary image such as an advertisement as a screen saver. After setting the touch panel 206 screen to the standby screen, the processor 201 proceeds to Act A22. The processor 201 waits to receive payment information from the registration device 10 as Act 22.

[0098] As described above, in the processing of ActA114, the processor 101 of the registration device 10 transmits payment information from the communication unit 104 to the payment device 20 selected by the store clerk 30. This payment information is received by the communication unit 204 installed in the destination payment device 20 and stored in the main memory 202 or auxiliary storage device 203.

[0099] When the processor 201 receives payment information, it determines YES in Act 22 and proceeds to Act 23. In Act 22, the processor 201 displays a payment screen on the touch panel 206. The payment screen accepts operations from the shopper 40 to make a payment based on the received payment information. For example, the payment screen displays at least the total amount shown in the payment information. The payment screen may also display the total quantity, a list of purchased items, an image of an electronic money charge instruction button, etc.

[0100] Next, as Act 24, the processor 201 determines whether or not the payment information includes electronic money payment information indicating how much has been paid using electronic money. If the payment information does not include electronic money payment information, the processor 201 determines NO in Act 24 and proceeds to Act 25. As Act 25, the processor 201 determines whether or not the shopper 40 has performed a payment operation on the change machine 209 or the reader / writer 208. If no payment operation is performed on the change machine 209 or the reader / writer 208, the processor 201 determines NO in Act 25 and proceeds to Act 26. As Act 26, the processor 201 determines whether or not the shopper 40 has performed an operation to charge electronic money, for example, touching the position of the charge instruction button image on the payment screen. If no charge operation is performed, the processor 201 determines NO in Act 26 and returns to Act 25. Thus, the processor 201 awaits a payment or charge operation from the shopper 40.

[0101] When customer 40 performs a payment operation on the change dispenser 209 for the total amount displayed on the payment screen, that is, when cash is inserted into the change dispenser 209, processor 201 determines YES in Act 25 and proceeds to Act 27. Processor 201 executes the payment process in Act 27. This payment process is for settling the total amount indicated in the payment information stored in the main memory 202 or auxiliary storage device 203 in response to the operation by customer 40. This payment process can be directly applied to the process used in existing self-service POS terminals, for example. Once the payment process is complete, processor 201 proceeds to Act 28.

[0102] Processor 201 controls printer 207 as Act 28 to issue a receipt. The receipt records at least the sales data and total amount of the purchased items, as well as payment information for settling the purchase. If change is given, that amount is also recorded. After issuing the receipt, processor 201 returns to Act 31 and performs subsequent processing as described above.

[0103] Furthermore, if the payment information includes electronic money payment information showing how much has been paid by electronic money, processor 201 determines YES in Act 24 and proceeds to Act 29. In Act 29, processor 201 displays the difference between the total amount included in the payment information and the amount paid by electronic money as shown in the electronic money payment information as the shortfall on the payment screen. After that, processor 201 proceeds to Act 25.

[0104] Then, when the shopper 40 performs an operation to pay the outstanding amount displayed on the payment screen to the change machine 209, that is, when cash is inserted into the change machine 209, the processor 201 determines YES in Act 25 and proceeds to Act 27 to execute the payment process. Once the payment process is complete, the processor 201 proceeds to Act 28 and controls the printer 207 to issue a receipt. The receipt records at least the sales data and total amount of the purchased items, as well as payment information for settling the purchase. The payment information includes the amount paid by electronic money and the amount paid by cash. If there is any change to be given, that amount is also recorded.

[0105] Furthermore, when a shopper 40 performs an operation to charge electronic money, for example, by touching the location of the charge instruction button image on the payment screen, the processor 201 determines YES in Act 26 and proceeds to Act 30. In Act 30, the processor 201 performs the electronic money charge process. For example, it causes the reader / writer 208 to read the data from the electronic money medium and controls the communication unit 204 to query the server for the charge amount. The server obtains the electronic money charge amount in the same way as it does for the registration device 10 and returns it to the payment device 20. The processor 201 displays the charge amount on the payment screen of the touch panel 206. If the payment information includes electronic money payment information, the charge amount is usually 0 yen. When the shopper 40 inserts the cash to be charged into the change machine 209, the processor 201 controls the communication unit 204 to request the server to charge that amount. In response, the server updates the charge amount of the electronic money it manages or requests the electronic money center to charge it. Once the charge is complete, the charge amount is returned from the server to the payment device 20, and the processor 201 displays the charge amount on the payment screen of the touch panel 206. The processor 201 may also control the printer 207 to issue a receipt for the charge operation. Furthermore, the processor 201 may use the reader / writer 109 to write the updated charge amount to the electronic money medium. Once the electronic money has been charged in this way, the shopper 40 removes the electronic money medium from the reader / writer 208. The processor 201 then returns to Act 25 described above.

[0106] Then, when the shopper 40 performs an operation on the reader / writer 208 to settle the insufficient amount displayed on the payment screen, that is, when the electronic money medium is placed back into the reader / writer 208, the processor 201 determines YES in Act 25 and proceeds to Act 27, where it executes the settlement process to settle the insufficient amount. Once the settlement process is complete, the processor 201 proceeds to Act 28, where it controls the printer 207 to issue a receipt. The receipt records at least the sales data and total amount of the purchased items, as well as payment information for settling the purchase of those items. The payment information includes the amounts paid by electronic money before and after charging.

[0107] As described above, in this embodiment, in the registration device 10 of the semi-self-service checkout system, while the store clerk 30 is registering the purchased items, the shopper 40 selects the payment method using the customer touch panel 108. Therefore, when the store clerk 30 finishes registering the purchased items, payment according to the shopper 40's selection can be immediately carried out, reducing the payment time per shopper 40 and increasing the turnover rate of the registration device 10.

[0108] Furthermore, the registration device 10 obtains the amount of electronic money charged, which is the amount payable by electronic money. If the shopper 40 selects to pay with electronic money, and the total payment amount calculated each time the shop clerk 30 registers the purchased items exceeds the charged amount, the device notifies the shopper 40 of the insufficient charged amount, allowing the shopper 40 to respond to this notification and select a payment method. Therefore, as soon as the insufficient electronic money charge is discovered during the registration of purchased items, the shopper 40 can immediately select an alternative payment method or a combination of electronic money and another payment method. Consequently, compared to the case where the electronic money charge amount is obtained and checked for insufficient charge only after all purchased items have been registered and the total amount is known, this embodiment allows for a reduction in time by the amount of time it would take for the shopper 40 to select an alternative payment method or a combination of electronic money and another payment method if the charge is insufficient.

[0109] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the electronic money balance is insufficient and the shopper 40 has chosen to use a combination of electronic money payment and another non-cash payment method, the payment device 20 can immediately process the payment using those payment methods once all purchased items have been registered and the total amount has been determined.

[0110] Furthermore, if the shopper 40 has selected a payment method in which they can increase the charged amount by adding money to their electronic money account when their electronic money balance is insufficient, the payment information can be immediately transmitted from the registration device 10 to the payment device 20 once all purchased items have been registered and the total amount has been determined.

[0111] The payment information from the registration device 10 to the payment device 20 may be transmitted directly or indirectly via a server or the like.

[0112] The above describes embodiments of a checkout system and a registration device used in this system that can reduce the payment time per shopper and increase the turnover rate of the registration device. However, the embodiments are not limited to these.

[0113] For example, although the above embodiment was described using a semi-self-service checkout system as an example, it can also be applied to a face-to-face checkout system equipped with a conventional cash handling registration device, although its effectiveness is more limited than that of a semi-self-service system.

[0114] In addition, several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out 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 variations are included within the scope of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1...Checkout system, 10...Registration device, 12...Main memory, 20...Payment device, 30...Shop staff, 40...Customer, 50...Work table, 101,201...Processor, 102,202...Main memory, 102C...Electronic money charge amount memory, 102F...Flag memory, 103,203...Auxiliary storage device, 104,204...Communication unit, 105...Keyboard, 106,205...Scanner, 107,206...Touch panel, 108...Customer touch panel, 109,208...Reader / writer, 110,207...Printer, 111...Drawer opening mechanism, 112,210...System transmission line, 209...Change machine, FG1...First flag, FG2...Second flag.

Claims

1. A checkout system comprising a registration device operated by a store employee to register purchased items, and a payment device operated by a customer to settle the payment for the purchased items, The registration device is While the store clerk is registering the purchased items, a first selection means allows the customer to select a payment method. In response to the store clerk's operation to register the purchased items, if a payment method including cash is selected by the first selection means, a transmission means transmits payment information for settling the purchase of the purchased items to the payment device. Upon completion of the store clerk's operation to register the purchased items, if a payment method that does not include cash has been selected by the first selection means, the payment means will perform the settlement using the selected payment method. A checkout system that has the following features.

2. The registration device is A means of obtaining the amount available for payment using electronic money, When the payment method using electronic money is selected by the first selection means, if the total payment amount calculated each time the store clerk registers the purchased items exceeds the available payment amount, a notification means is provided to notify the shopper of insufficient available payment amount. In response to the notification of insufficient payment amount, a second selection means for the shopper to select a payment method, The checkout system according to claim 1, comprising:

3. The checkout system according to claim 2, wherein the payment means performs settlement by the payment method when the second selection means selects a combination of the electronic money payment method and another non-cash payment method.

4. The checkout system according to claim 2, wherein the transmission means transmits the payment information to the payment device when a payment method is selected by the second selection means to increase the payable amount by depositing money into the electronic money.

5. A checkout system comprising a registration device operated by a store employee to register purchased items, and a payment device operated by a customer to settle the payment for purchased items, wherein the registration device An input / output device for the store clerk to register the purchased items, The aforementioned touch panel that can be operated by the shopper, While the store clerk is performing the operation to register the purchased items using the input / output device, a first selection means displays a selection screen on the touch panel for the customer to select a payment method, and accepts the customer's selection of the payment method. When the payment method using electronic money is selected, an acquisition means for obtaining the amount payable using the electronic money, A second selection means that, when the total payment amount calculated each time the store clerk registers the purchased items exceeds the available payment amount, displays a message indicating insufficient available payment amount on the touch panel and accepts the shopper's selection of a payment method, A registration device equipped with the following features.

6. In a checkout system comprising a registration device operated by a store employee to register purchased items and a payment device operated by a customer to settle the payment for purchased items, the computer of the registration device is... While the store clerk is performing the registration operation of the purchased items using the input / output device of the registration device, a first selection means is provided to display a selection screen on the touch panel of the registration device for the shopper to select a payment method and to accept the shopper's selection of the payment method; when the payment method by electronic money is selected, an acquisition means is provided to acquire the amount payable by electronic money; When the total payment amount calculated each time the store clerk registers the purchased items exceeds the available payment amount, a second selection means displays a message on the touch panel indicating insufficient available payment amount and accepts the shopper's selection of a payment method. A control program to enable it to function as such.

Images