Checkout system and checkout method

Abstract

This invention provides a checkout system and checkout method that can improve the efficiency of transaction processing. [Solution] The checkout system according to this embodiment comprises a product sales data processing device, a terminal device, and a checking device. The product sales data processing device performs at least one of product registration processing and accounting processing. The terminal device comprises communication means, acquisition means, and storage means. The communication means establishes one-to-one communication with either the product sales data processing device or the checking device. The acquisition means acquires actual data of the registration processing and / or accounting processing performed by the product sales data processing device. The storage means stores the acquired actual data. The checking device comprises checking means. When communication with the terminal device is established, the checking means checks whether the transaction related to the purchase of goods was carried out normally based on the actual data stored in the terminal device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a checkout system and a checkout method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a checkout system (hereinafter also referred to as a full self-checkout system) in which a shopper performs a registration process for registering product information such as products and services and an accounting process using an accounting device is known. Also known is a checkout system (hereinafter also referred to as a semi-self-checkout system) in which a store clerk performs the above registration process and a shopper performs the accounting process. In the semi-self-checkout system, the shopper performs the accounting process.

[0003] Also, in a conventional semi-self-checkout system, a configuration in which a plurality of accounting devices are connected to one registration device may be adopted. With such a configuration, for example, even if a certain shopper takes a long time for accounting or a certain accounting device becomes unable to perform processing due to a trouble or the like, the store clerk can guide the next shopper to another accounting device.

[0004] By the way, in a conventional semi-self-checkout system, when registration is completed for all products involved in one transaction, there is a system in which a store clerk designates an accounting device that is the transmission destination of transaction data from the registration device, and the registration device transmits the transaction data to the designated accounting device.

[0005] However, in the above-described conventional semi-self-checkout system, it is necessary for the store clerk to determine an accounting device to transfer transaction data after grasping the congestion status of the accounting devices, and to guide the shopper to the accounting device to which the transaction data has been transferred.

[0006] Therefore, with conventional semi-self-service checkout systems, shoppers cannot freely select the payment device they wish to use. Consequently, even if there are unused payment devices, shoppers cannot use them, potentially causing delays in the transaction process, including registration and payment processing. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a checkout system and checkout method that can improve the efficiency of transaction processing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The checkout system according to this embodiment comprises a plurality of product sales data processing devices, a terminal device, and a checking device. The plurality of product sales data processing devices are capable of performing at least one of product registration processing and accounting processing. The terminal device is movable within the area where the plurality of product sales data processing devices are located. The terminal device comprises communication means, acquisition means, and storage means. The communication means establishes one-to-one communication with either the product sales data processing device or the checking device. The acquisition means acquires actual data of the registration processing and / or accounting processing performed by the product sales data processing device from the communication partner product sales data processing device. The storage means stores the acquired actual data. The checking device comprises checking means. When communication with the terminal device is established, the checking means checks whether the transaction related to the purchase of goods was performed normally based on the actual data stored in the terminal device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cash register area CA to which the checkout system according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] Figure 2 illustrates an example of communication between a terminal device and a fully self-service POS terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 illustrates an example of communication between a terminal device and a registration device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates an example of communication between a terminal device and an accounting device according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 illustrates an example of communication between a terminal device and a check device according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal device according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a fully self-service POS terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the registration device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the accounting device according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the check device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a terminal device according to this embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a fully self-service POS terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a registration device according to this embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an accounting device according to this embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a checking device according to this embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing performed between a terminal device and a fully self-service POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing performed between a terminal device and a registration device according to this embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing executed between the terminal device and the accounting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing executed between the terminal device and the checking device according to the embodiment. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, a checkout system and a checkout method according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings of FIGS. to FIG. In the embodiment, a terminal device that holds transaction information regarding a commodity transaction, a full-self POS terminal where a customer performs a commodity registration operation and an accounting operation, a registration device where a store clerk performs a commodity registration operation, and an accounting device where a customer performs an accounting operation are provided. A semi-self checkout system and a checkout system having a checking device that determines whether a transaction can be completed will be described as an example. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cash register area CA to which the checkout system according to the embodiment is applied. As shown in FIG. 1, in the cash register area CA, a terminal device 101, a full-self POS terminal 102, a registration device 103, accounting devices 104 (104a, 104b), and a checking device 105 that constitute the checkout system according to the present embodiment are installed.

[0012] In addition, in the cash register area CA, an entrance 201, a terminal placement area 202, a full-self stand 203, a semi-self stand 204, a terminal return area 205, and an exit 206 are installed.

[0013] Here, FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of communication between the terminal device 101 and the full self-POS terminal 102. As shown in FIG. 2, the terminal device 101 performs wireless communication WC with the full self-POS terminal 102 and transmits and receives various information. As the wireless communication WC, for example, wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and wireless LAN (Local Area Network) can be appropriately used.

[0014] Further, FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of communication between the terminal device 101 and the registration device 103. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 101 performs wireless communication WC with the registration device 103 and transmits and receives various information.

[0015] Further, FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of communication between the terminal device 101 and the accounting device 104. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 101 performs wireless communication WC with the accounting device 104 (104a, 104b) and transmits and receives various information.

[0016] Further, FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of communication between the terminal device 101 and the check device 105. As shown in FIG. 5, the terminal device 101 performs wireless communication WC with the check device 105 and transmits and receives various information.

[0017] Returning to FIG. 1, the description will continue. The terminal device 101 holds transaction information regarding the transaction of goods to be described later. The terminal device 101 is, for example, a portable terminal such as a tablet terminal or a smartphone. In the present embodiment, the terminal device 101 is a tablet terminal.

[0018] For example, in a semi-self-checkout device, the terminal device 101 receives registration information regarding the registration process of goods sold from the registration device 103 and records the registration information in the transaction information. The registration information is an example of the performance data of the registration process. Further, for example, the terminal device 101 transmits the registration information to the accounting device 104.

[0019] The terminal device 101 receives accounting information related to accounting processing based on the registration information from the accounting device 104 and records the accounting information in the transaction information. The accounting information is an example of actual accounting processing data.

[0020] The fully self-service POS terminal 102 performs registration processing and accounting processing for purchased goods. The fully self-service POS terminal 102 is an example of a product data processing device. The fully self-service POS terminal 102 is operated by customer C themselves.

[0021] For example, the fully self-service POS terminal 102 performs the registration process by reading the code symbol attached to the product. The fully self-service POS terminal 102 transmits registration information related to the registration process to the terminal device 101.

[0022] Here, the registration process includes, for example, a process of displaying and storing product information such as the product name and price of a product based on a product code that identifies the product associated with the read symbol. In this specification, the operation of having the registration device 103 read the code symbol attached to a product is also referred to as the registration operation.

[0023] Furthermore, for example, the fully self-service POS terminal 102 performs accounting processing for the goods purchased by customer C based on the registered information. The fully self-service POS terminal 102 transmits accounting information related to the accounting processing to the terminal device 101. In this specification, the operation of the accounting device 104 is also referred to as the accounting operation. The accounting information may include information indicating that change has been collected, that a card has been removed, etc.

[0024] In the example shown in Figure 1, two self-service counters 203 are installed side-by-side with a gap between them in the left-to-right direction in the diagram, near the terminal area 202 within the register area CA. One self-service POS terminal 102 is installed on each of the self-service counters 203.

[0025] The registration device 103 performs the registration process. The registration device 103 is an example of a product data processing device. The registration device 103 is operated by an operator O, such as a store employee.

[0026] For example, the registration device 103 performs the registration process by imaging a symbol attached to the product. The registration device 103 transmits the registration information to the terminal device 101.

[0027] In the example shown in Figure 1, two semi-self-service counters 204 are installed side-by-side with a gap between them, near the center of the register area CA in the vertical direction of the diagram. One registration device 103 is installed on each of the semi-self-service counters 204.

[0028] Furthermore, two accounting devices 104 are installed side-by-side adjacent to each of the semi-self-service counters 204 (registration devices 103). The accounting devices 104 perform accounting processing for products registered, for example, by the registration device 103. The accounting devices 104 are an example of a product data processing device. The accounting devices 104 are operated by customer C themselves.

[0029] For example, the accounting device 104 receives registration information from the terminal device 101. The accounting device 104 performs accounting processing based on the registration information. The accounting device 104 transmits the accounting information to the terminal device 101.

[0030] In the example shown in Figure 1, two types of accounting devices 104 (accounting devices 104a and 104b) are installed in the cashier area CA. In this embodiment, accounting devices 104a (accounting devices A and B) are accounting devices 104 that support cash payments, while accounting devices 104b (accounting devices C and D) are accounting devices 104 that do not support cash payments.

[0031] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 1, accounting devices A and B are located close to registration device A and downstream of registration device A in the direction of customer C flow after registration (flowing from left to right in Figure 1). Also, accounting devices C and D are located close to registration device B and downstream of registration device B in the direction of customer C flow after registration.

[0032] Furthermore, the two types of accounting devices 104 are installed linearly adjacent to the semi-self-service counters 204. Therefore, in this embodiment, a passageway for customers C is formed between the two semi-self-service counters 204. Customer C moves along the passageway from the registration device 103 to the accounting device 104.

[0033] The above arrangement of the devices is merely an example, and the arrangement of the devices is not limited to the example in Figure 1.

[0034] The following describes the flow of actions taken by customer C upon entering the cashier area CA. After passing through entrance gate 201, customer C picks up terminal device 101 located at terminal stand 202. Transaction information is recorded on terminal device 101.

[0035] Customer C, having picked up terminal device 101, chooses whether to complete the payment fully self-service or semi-self-service. Customer C who chooses fully self-service goes to the area where the fully self-service POS terminal 102 is installed, while Customer C who chooses semi-self-service goes to the area where the registration device 103, where operator O is located, is installed.

[0036] Customer C, having moved to the area where the full self-service POS terminal 102 is installed, moves in front of the full self-service POS terminal 102 that is not in use, among the full self-service POS terminals A and B. Customer C performs the pairing operation between the terminal device 101 (described later) and the full self-service POS terminal 102 to be used. After pairing is complete, Customer C performs product registration and accounting processing on the full self-service POS terminal 102. By performing pairing, Customer C can exclusively use the terminal device 101 that has been paired with it. After performing the registration and accounting processing, Customer C moves with the terminal device 101 to the area where the check device 105 is installed.

[0037] Meanwhile, customer C, who has moved to the area where registration device 103 is installed, selects either registration device A or registration device B depending on their preferred payment method (cash payment, card payment, electronic money payment, etc.). In this example, accounting devices 104a (accounting devices A and B) are equipped with deposit and withdrawal sections, while accounting device 104b is not. Therefore, in this example, customer C, who wishes to pay in cash, will select registration device A.

[0038] The following explanation assumes that customer C has selected registration device A. Customer C moves in front of registration device A and hands terminal device 101 to operator O of registration device A. Operator O performs the pairing operation between terminal device 101 and registration device 103. After pairing is complete, operator O performs the product registration process on registration device 103. After the registration process is completed, operator O hands terminal device 101 back to customer C.

[0039] Customer C moves to the unused accounting device 104a (accounting devices A and B) located near registration device A. Customer C performs the pairing operation between terminal device 101 and the accounting device 104a to be used. After pairing is complete, Customer C performs the accounting process. After the accounting process is completed, Customer C takes terminal device 101 and moves to the area where check device 105 is installed.

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 1, customer C, who prefers payment methods other than cash, may choose either registration device A or registration device B. If registration device A is selected, customer C can perform accounting using the unused accounting device 104 (accounting device C or B), even if accounting devices A and B are being used by other customers C, as long as at least one of accounting devices C and D is not being used by other customers C.

[0041] Customer C, having moved to the area where the check device 105 is installed, performs a pairing operation between the terminal device 101 and the check device 105. After pairing is complete, the check device 105 determines whether the transaction can be completed. If it is determined that the transaction can be completed, Customer C returns the terminal device 101 to the terminal return area 205 and exits through the exit 206.

[0042] On the other hand, if it is determined that the transaction cannot be completed, the checking device 105 will provide notification corresponding to the reason why the transaction could not be completed.

[0043] Next, the hardware configuration of each device constituting the checkout system according to this embodiment will be described. First, the hardware configuration of the terminal device 101 will be described. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal device 101.

[0044] As shown in Figure 6, the terminal device 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, RAM (Random Access Memory) 113, a memory unit 114, and the like.

[0045] The CPU 111 is the control unit. The ROM 112 stores various programs. The RAM 113 loads various data. The memory unit 114 stores various programs. The CPU 111, ROM 112, RAM 113, and memory unit 114 are connected to each other via a data bus 115.

[0046] The CPU 111, ROM 112, and RAM 113 constitute the control unit 110. In other words, the control unit 110 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control program stored in the ROM 112 and memory unit 114 and loaded into the RAM 113.

[0047] The memory unit 114 consists of non-volatile memory such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory, which retains stored information even when the power is turned off. The memory unit 114 includes a control program unit 1141 that stores the control program.

[0048] Furthermore, the control unit 110 is connected to the operation unit 117 and the display unit 118, etc., via the data bus 115 and the input / output controller 116.

[0049] The operation unit 117 has various operation buttons and outputs key information to the control unit 110 according to the operator's actions. The operation unit 117 may be, for example, a touch panel provided on the surface of the display unit 118.

[0050] The display unit 118 is a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). The display unit 118 displays various information according to the control of the control unit 110.

[0051] Furthermore, the control unit 110 is connected to the communication unit 119 via the data bus 115. The communication unit 119 connects the terminal device 101 to the full self-service POS terminal 102, registration device 103, accounting device 104, or check device 105, respectively, via wireless communication.

[0052] Next, the hardware configuration of the full self-service POS terminal 102 will be described. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the full self-service POS terminal 102.

[0053] As shown in Figure 7, the fully self-service POS terminal 102 is equipped with a CPU 211, ROM 212, RAM 213, memory unit 214, etc.

[0054] The CPU 211 is the control unit. The ROM 212 stores various programs. The RAM 213 loads various data. The memory unit 214 stores various programs. The CPU 211, ROM 212, RAM 213, and memory unit 214 are connected to each other via a data bus 215.

[0055] The CPU 211, ROM 212, and RAM 213 constitute the control unit 210. In other words, the control unit 210 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control program stored in the ROM 212 and memory unit 214 and loaded into the RAM 213.

[0056] RAM213 includes a product information unit 2131 that stores product information of registered products.

[0057] The memory unit 214 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory. The memory unit 214 includes a control program unit 2141 that stores control programs. The memory unit 214 also includes a product master 2142. The product master 2142 stores product information such as the product name, price (unit price), and attributes of each product, categorized by a product code that identifies the product.

[0058] Furthermore, the control unit 210 is connected to the operation unit 217, display unit 218, printer 219, scanner unit 221, card reader unit 220, and deposit / withdrawal unit 222, etc., via the data bus 215 and controller 216.

[0059] The operation unit 217 has various operation buttons and outputs key information to the control unit 210 according to the operator's actions. The operation unit 217 may be, for example, a touch panel provided on the surface of the display unit 218.

[0060] The operation unit 217 also includes a subtotal key 2171, a transmit key 2172, and an accounting key 2173. The subtotal key 2171, transmit key 2172, and accounting key 2173 may be physical keys or keys displayed on the display unit 218.

[0061] The subtotal key 2171 is a key that customer C operates when completing the registration operation. The transmission key 2172 is a key that customer C operates when transmitting registration information to the terminal device 101. The accounting key 621 is operated by customer C when completing the accounting operation. For example, when customer C deposits the predetermined amount of cash for the payment amount displayed on the display unit 218, customer C operates the accounting key 2173.

[0062] The display unit 218 is a display device such as an LCD. The display unit 218 displays various information according to the control of the control unit 210. For example, the display unit 218 displays the product name and price of the registered product.

[0063] The printer 219 prints receipts and other documents showing the details of a transaction under the control of the control unit 210.

[0064] The card reader unit 220 is a reading device that reads information from card media such as magnetic cards and IC cards. For example, the card reader unit 220 reads credit information related to payment for goods from a credit card and outputs the read credit information to the control unit 210.

[0065] Alternatively, for example, the card reader 220 may read the user ID of a registered user (hereinafter also referred to as a member) from the member card distributed to the member, and output the read user ID to the control unit 210.

[0066] The scanner unit 221 reads code symbols. For example, the scanner unit 221 is a reading device that optically reads code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes.

[0067] Specifically, the scanner unit 221 reads the product code from the code symbol attached to the product and outputs the read product code to the control unit 210. The scanner unit 221 also reads the pairing code for pairing with the terminal device 101 and outputs the read pairing code to the control unit 210.

[0068] Alternatively, for example, the scanner unit 221 may read the user ID and payment information related to electronic payment from the code symbol displayed on the display unit of the customer C's mobile terminal, and output the read information to the CPU 211.

[0069] The scanner unit 221 may also be an imaging device. In this case, the control unit 210 may use known pattern recognition techniques to identify the product from the code symbols contained in the image, based on the image of the product captured by the scanner unit 221.

[0070] Alternatively, the control unit 210 may use a known generic object recognition technique to identify the captured product, instead of pattern recognition technology, by recognizing objects contained in the image.

[0071] The deposit and withdrawal section 223 includes a storage section (not shown) for storing currency (coins and banknotes) by denomination, and performs functions such as depositing payment amounts and dispensing change.

[0072] Furthermore, the control unit 210 is connected to the communication unit 224 via the data bus 215. The communication unit 224 connects the terminal device 101 and the full self-service POS terminal 102 via wireless communication.

[0073] Next, the hardware configuration of the registration device 103 will be described. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the registration device 103.

[0074] As shown in Figure 8, the registration device 103 includes a CPU 311, ROM 312, RAM 313, memory unit 314, etc.

[0075] The CPU 311 is the control unit. The ROM 312 stores various programs. The RAM 313 loads various data. The memory unit 314 stores various programs. The CPU 311, ROM 312, RAM 313, and memory unit 314 are connected to each other via a data bus 315.

[0076] The CPU 311, ROM 312, and RAM 313 constitute the control unit 310. In other words, the control unit 310 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control program stored in the ROM 312 and memory unit 314 and loaded into the RAM 313.

[0077] RAM313 includes a product information unit 3131 similar to the product information unit 2131 described above.

[0078] The memory unit 314 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory. The memory unit 314 includes a control program unit 3141 for storing control programs. The memory unit 314 also includes a product master 3142 similar to the product master 2142 described above.

[0079] Furthermore, the control unit 310 is connected to the operation unit 317, the operator display unit 318, the customer display unit 319, the printer 320, the scanner unit 322, and the card reader unit 321 via the data bus 315 and the controller 316.

[0080] The operation unit 317 has various operation buttons and outputs key information to the control unit 310 according to the operator's operation. The operation unit 317 may be, for example, a touch panel provided on the surface of the operator display unit 318.

[0081] Furthermore, the operation unit 317 includes a subtotal key 3171 and a transmit key 3172.

[0082] The subtotal key 3171 is a key that operator O operates when completing the registration operation. The transmit key 3172 is a key that operator O operates when transmitting the registration information to the terminal device 101.

[0083] The operator display unit 318 is a display device such as an LCD. The operator display unit 318 displays various information to the operator O in accordance with the control of the control unit 310. For example, the operator display unit 318 displays the product name and price of the registered product.

[0084] The customer display unit 319 is a display device such as an LCD. The customer display unit 319 displays various information to customer C in accordance with the control of the control unit 310. For example, the customer display unit 319 displays product information and total amount for registered products.

[0085] The printer 320, card reader 321, and scanner 322 are the same as the printer 219, card reader 220, and scanner 221, so their description is omitted.

[0086] Furthermore, the control unit 310 is connected to the communication unit 323 via the data bus 315. The communication unit 224 connects the terminal device 101 and the registration device 103 via wireless communication.

[0087] Next, the hardware configuration of the accounting device 104a will be described. Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the accounting device 104a.

[0088] As shown in Figure 5, the accounting device 104 includes a CPU 411, ROM 412, RAM 413, memory unit 414, etc.

[0089] The CPU 411 is the control unit. The ROM 412 stores various programs. The RAM 413 loads various data. The memory unit 414 stores various programs. The CPU 411, ROM 412, RAM 413, and memory unit 414 are connected to each other via a data bus 415.

[0090] The CPU 411, ROM 412, and RAM 413 constitute the control unit 410. In other words, the control unit 410 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control program stored in the ROM 412 and memory unit 414 and loaded into the RAM 413.

[0091] The RAM 413 includes a transaction information unit 4131 that stores transaction information, including registration information of registered products received from the terminal device 101.

[0092] The memory unit 414 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory. The memory unit 414 includes a control program unit 4141 that stores a control program.

[0093] Furthermore, the control unit 410 is connected to the operation unit 417, display unit 418, printer 419, card reader 420, hand scanner 421, deposit / withdrawal unit 422, and light-emitting unit 423 via the data bus 415 and controller 416.

[0094] The operation unit 417 has various operation buttons and outputs key information to the control unit 310 according to the operator's operation. The operation unit 417 may be, for example, a touch panel provided on the surface of the display unit 418. The operation unit 417 also includes an accounting key 4171 similar to the accounting key 2173 described above.

[0095] The display unit 418 is a display device such as an LCD. The display unit 418 displays various information to customer C in accordance with the control of the control unit 410. For example, the display unit 418 displays product information (product name, unit price, etc.), total amount information, tax amount information, payment information to be paid by customer C, etc.

[0096] The printer 419, card reader 420, and deposit / withdrawal unit 422 are the same as the printer 219, card reader 220, and deposit / withdrawal unit 222, so their description is omitted.

[0097] The hand scanner 421 reads code symbols. The hand scanner 421 is a reading device that can be held and operated in the hand. For example, the hand scanner 421 is a reading device that optically reads code symbols. Specifically, the hand scanner 421 reads a pairing code for pairing with the terminal device 101 and outputs the read pairing code to the control unit 410.

[0098] The hand scanner 421 may also be an imaging device. In this case, the control unit 310 may use known pattern recognition techniques to identify the pairing code contained in the image based on the image captured by the hand scanner 421.

[0099] The light-emitting unit 423 notifies the store staff that there is a problem with the payment device 104 by emitting light. For example, the light-emitting unit 423 lights up when customer C has trouble operating the payment device 104 or when an error occurs in the payment device 104 and customer C calls a store staff member.

[0100] Furthermore, the control unit 410 is connected to the communication unit 424 via the data bus 415. The communication unit 424 connects the terminal device 101 and the accounting device 104a via wireless communication.

[0101] Furthermore, since accounting device 104b has substantially the same configuration as accounting device 104a, except that it does not have a deposit / withdrawal section 422, its explanation will be omitted.

[0102] Next, the hardware configuration of the checking device 105 will be described. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the checking device 105.

[0103] As shown in Figure 10, the check device 105 includes a CPU 511, ROM 512, RAM 513, memory unit 514, etc.

[0104] The CPU 511 is the control unit. The ROM 512 stores various programs. The RAM 513 loads various data. The memory unit 514 stores various programs. The CPU 511, ROM 512, RAM 513, and memory unit 514 are connected to each other via a data bus 55.

[0105] The CPU 511, ROM 512, and RAM 513 constitute the control unit 510. In other words, the control unit 510 executes the control processing described later by operating according to the control program stored in the ROM 512 and memory unit 514 and loaded into the RAM 513.

[0106] The RAM 513 includes a transaction information unit 5131 that stores transaction information received from the terminal device 101.

[0107] The memory unit 514 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory. The memory unit 514 includes a control program unit 5141 for storing control programs and a determination information unit 5142.

[0108] The determination information 5142 is information used to determine whether the transaction information stored in the transaction information unit 5131 contains the information necessary to complete the transaction. For example, the determination information 5142 may define the information necessary to complete the transaction for each customer C behavior pattern in the transaction (e.g., whether the registration process is fully self-service or semi-self-service, whether the payment method is cash, card, or electronic money).

[0109] Furthermore, the control unit 510 is connected to the operation unit 517, the display unit 518, and the hand scanner 519 via the data bus 515 and the controller 516. The operation unit 517, the display unit 518, and the hand scanner 519 are the same as the operation unit 117, the display unit 118, and the hand scanner 421, so their description is omitted.

[0110] Furthermore, the control unit 510 is connected to the communication unit 520 via the data bus 515. The communication unit 520 connects the terminal device 101 and the check device 105 via wireless communication.

[0111] Next, the functional configuration of each device constituting the checkout system according to this embodiment will be described using Figures 11 to 15. First, the functional configuration of the terminal device 101 will be described. Figure 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the terminal device 101.

[0112] As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 101 includes a generation unit 1101, a pairing unit 1102, and a recording unit 1103, among other functional components.

[0113] In this embodiment, the functional configuration of the terminal device 101 described above is realized as a software configuration through the cooperation of the processor (CPU 111) and various programs (for example, the control program of the control program unit 1141) stored in memory (ROM 112, memory unit 114, etc.). Note that some or all of the functional configuration of the terminal device 101 described above may be realized as a hardware configuration using dedicated circuits or the like provided by the terminal device 101.

[0114] The generation unit 1101 generates transaction information. For example, when the generation unit 1101 receives input from customer C via the operation unit 117 to the transaction start button displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal device 101, it generates transaction information. Specifically, when the generation unit 1101 receives input from the transaction start button, it generates a transaction ID that can identify the transaction and records it as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the memory unit 114. The transaction ID is an example of transaction identification information.

[0115] Initially, transaction information only contains a transaction ID. However, each time a registration or accounting process related to a transaction is performed, the registration information and accounting information are recorded in association with the transaction ID.

[0116] The pairing unit 1102 performs a pairing process to establish a one-to-one wireless communication WC with another device (full self-service POS terminal 102, registration device 103, accounting device 104, or check device 105). The pairing unit 1102 is an example of a communication means.

[0117] For example, when the pairing unit 1102 receives a pairing notification via the communication unit 119 from another device indicating that the pairing process has started, it displays a message on the display unit 118 asking whether it is OK to pair the terminal device 101 with the other device. When the pairing unit 1102 receives input from customer C via the operation unit 117 indicating that it is OK to proceed with pairing, it sends an approval notification to the other device indicating that the pairing has been approved.

[0118] When another device receives an approval notification, pairing is established between terminal device 101 and the other device. Once pairing is established, terminal device 101 and the other device can send and receive various types of information until the pairing is terminated. Also, once pairing is established, customer C can exclusively use the other device until the pairing is terminated.

[0119] If transaction information has not been generated at the time of receiving the pairing notification, the pairing unit 1102 may withhold sending the approval notification until the transaction information is generated. In this case, the generation unit 1101 may display a message on the display unit 118 prompting customer C to press the transaction start button.

[0120] The recording unit 1103 records transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the memory unit 114.

[0121] For example, when the recording unit 1103 receives registration information from the full self-service POS terminal 102 or the registration device 103 via the communication unit 119, it associates the registration information with the transaction ID and records it as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142.

[0122] Furthermore, for example, when the recording unit 1103 receives accounting information from the full self-service POS terminal 102 or accounting device 104 via the communication unit 119, it associates the accounting information with a transaction ID and records it as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142.

[0123] Here, it can be said that the recording unit 1103 acquires registration information and accounting information. Therefore, the recording unit 1103 can be said to be an example of an acquisition means. Furthermore, it can be said that the recording unit 1103 stores the acquired registration information and accounting information in the memory unit 114. Therefore, the recording unit 1103 can be said to be an example of a storage means.

[0124] Next, the functional configuration of the full self-service POS terminal 102 will be described. Figure 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the full self-service POS terminal 102.

[0125] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 210 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 includes a code reading unit 2101, a pairing unit 2102, a registration processing unit 2103, and an accounting processing unit 2104 as its functional configuration.

[0126] In this embodiment, the functional configuration of the fully self-service POS terminal 102 described above is realized as a software configuration through the cooperation of the processor (CPU 211) and various programs (for example, the control program of the control program unit 2141) stored in memory (ROM 212, memory unit 214, etc.). Note that some or all of the functional configuration of the fully self-service POS terminal 102 described above may be realized as a hardware configuration using dedicated circuits or the like provided by the fully self-service POS terminal 102.

[0127] The code reading unit 2101 controls the scanner unit 221 to read the code symbol.

[0128] For example, the code reading unit 2101 controls the scanner unit 221 to read the pairing code (e.g., a two-dimensional code) attached to the terminal device 101 and acquires information necessary to start the pairing process, such as terminal identification information that identifies the terminal device 101 to be paired.

[0129] The pairing code may also be displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal device 101, under the control of the control unit 110 of the terminal device 101.

[0130] Furthermore, for example, the code reading unit 2101 controls the scanner unit 221 to read the barcode attached to the product and obtain the product code of that product.

[0131] The pairing unit 2102 performs a pairing process to establish a one-to-one wireless communication WC with the terminal device 101.

[0132] For example, when the code reading unit 2101 obtains the information necessary to start the pairing process, the pairing unit 2102 controls the communication unit 224 and sends a pairing notification to the terminal device 101 identified by the terminal identification information contained in that information. After sending the pairing notification, if the pairing unit 2102 receives an approval notification from the terminal device 101, it completes the pairing between the terminal device 101 and the full self-service POS terminal 102.

[0133] The registration processing unit 2103 executes the registration process based on the product code read by the code reading unit 2101.

[0134] For example, the registration processing unit 2103 identifies the product information for the corresponding product by comparing the product code obtained by the code reading unit 2101 with each product code stored in the product master 2142. The registration processing unit 2103 then temporarily stores the product code obtained by the code reading unit 2101 and the product information corresponding to that product code in the product information unit 2131 of the RAM 213.

[0135] Furthermore, when customer C presses the subtotal key 2171, the registration processing unit 2103 displays information such as the product code, the product information corresponding to the product code, and the total price of the products calculated based on the product information, which are temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131, on the display unit 218.

[0136] Furthermore, if the subtotal key 2171 is pressed and then the customer C presses the transmit key 2172, the registration processing unit 2103 transmits the product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 as registration information to the paired terminal device 101.

[0137] In this embodiment, when customer C presses the transmit key 2172, the registration processing unit 2103 transmits the product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 to the terminal device 101 as registration information. However, the registration process is not limited to this.

[0138] For example, the registration processing unit 2103 may sequentially transmit the product code and the corresponding product information to the terminal device 101 each time a product code is obtained by the code reading unit 2101. In this case, the terminal device 101 temporarily stores the product code and the corresponding product information in the RAM 113.

[0139] The accounting processing unit 2104 performs accounting processing based on the product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 of the RAM 213.

[0140] For example, after the registration information is transmitted to the terminal device 101, the accounting processing unit 2104 displays a payment screen on the display unit 218, which includes buttons for selecting the payment amount and payment method to be paid by customer C, based on the product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 of the RAM 213.

[0141] When the accounting processing unit 2104 receives input from customer C via the operation unit 217 to select cash payment, it displays a message on the display unit 218 prompting customer C to perform an accounting operation to deposit cash via the deposit / withdrawal unit 223. Based on the deposit received by customer C, the accounting processing unit 2104 calculates the amount of change and dispenses the change from the deposit / withdrawal unit 223.

[0142] Furthermore, if the system receives input from customer C via the operation unit 217 to select payment by credit card, the display unit 218 displays a message prompting customer C to insert their credit card into the card reader unit 8 to perform the payment operation. The accounting processing unit 2104 executes the credit card payment processing based on the product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 of the RAM 213.

[0143] Although the above describes examples of payment by cash and credit card, the accounting processing unit 2104 may be configured to perform accounting processing using electronic money, codes for information exchange via code symbols displayed on mobile terminals such as smartphones, etc.

[0144] After executing the accounting process, the accounting processing unit 2104 controls the printer 219 to print a receipt containing the processed accounting information and product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 of the RAM 213.

[0145] After the receipt issuance process described above, or in parallel with the receipt issuance process, the accounting processing unit 2104 transmits the accounting information to the terminal device 101.

[0146] Next, the functional configuration of the registration device 103 will be described. Figure 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the registration device 103.

[0147] As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 310 of the registration device 103 includes a code reading unit 3101, a pairing unit 3102, and a registration processing unit 3103 as its functional configuration.

[0148] In this embodiment, the functional configuration of the registration device 103 described above is realized as a software configuration through the cooperation of the processor (CPU 311) and various programs (for example, the control program of the control program unit 3141) stored in the memory (ROM 312, memory unit 314, etc.). Note that some or all of the functional configuration of the registration device 103 described above may be realized as a hardware configuration using dedicated circuits or the like provided by the registration device 103.

[0149] The code reading unit 3101, pairing unit 3102, and registration processing unit 3103 are substantially the same as the code reading unit 2101, pairing unit 2102, and registration processing unit 2103, so their explanation is omitted.

[0150] Next, the functional configuration of the accounting device 104 will be described. Figure 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the accounting device 104.

[0151] As shown in Figure 14, the control unit 410 of the accounting device 104 includes a code reading unit 4101, a pairing unit 4102, a request unit 4103, and an accounting processing unit 4104 as its functional configuration.

[0152] In this embodiment, the functional configuration of the accounting device 104 described above is realized as a software configuration through the cooperation of the processor (CPU 411) and various programs (for example, the control program of the control program unit 4141) stored in memory (ROM 412, memory unit 414, etc.). Note that some or all of the functional configuration of the accounting device 104 described above may be realized as a hardware configuration using dedicated circuits or the like provided by the accounting device 104.

[0153] The code reading unit 4101 differs from the code reading unit 2101 in that it controls the hand scanner 421 instead of the scanner unit, but it is substantially the same as the code reading unit 2101, so its explanation is omitted.

[0154] Furthermore, since the pairing unit 4102 is substantially the same as the pairing unit 2102, its explanation is omitted.

[0155] The request unit 4103 requests the terminal device 101 to provide registration information.

[0156] For example, the request unit 4103 requests the terminal device 101, which has been paired by the pairing unit 4102, to transmit transaction information including registration information. Also, when the accounting device 104 receives transaction information from the terminal device 101 via the communication unit 424, the request unit 4103 temporarily stores the transaction information in the transaction information unit 4131 of the RAM 413. If the transaction information includes registration information, the transaction information includes product information for the product for which the registration operation was performed.

[0157] If the received transaction information does not include registration information, the request unit 4103 may notify customer C by displaying a message on the display unit 418, etc., that the registration process has not been performed and urge them to perform the registration process first.

[0158] The accounting processing unit 4104 performs accounting processing based on the product information contained in the transaction information temporarily stored in the transaction information unit 4131 of the RAM 413. The flow of accounting processing is substantially the same as that of the accounting processing performed by the accounting processing unit 2104 described above, so an explanation is omitted.

[0159] Next, the functional configuration of the checking device 105 will be described. Figure 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the checking device 105.

[0160] As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 310 of the check device 105 is functionally configured to include a code reading unit 5101, a pairing unit 5102, a request unit 5103, a determination unit 5104, and a notification unit 5105.

[0161] In this embodiment, the functional configuration of the check device 105 described above is realized as a software configuration through the cooperation of the processor (CPU 511) and various programs (for example, the control program of the control program unit 5141) stored in memory (ROM 512, memory unit 514, etc.). Note that some or all of the functional configuration of the check device 105 described above may be realized as a hardware configuration using dedicated circuits or the like provided by the check device 105.

[0162] The code reading unit 5101 and the pairing unit 5102 are substantially the same as the code reading unit 4101 and the pairing unit 4102, so their explanation is omitted.

[0163] The request unit 5103 requests the terminal device 101 to provide transaction information.

[0164] For example, the request unit 5103 sends a transaction information request to the terminal device 101, which has been paired by the pairing unit 5102, requesting the transmission of transaction information. Also, when the check device 105 receives transaction information from the terminal device 101 via the communication unit 520, the request unit 5103 temporarily stores the transaction information in the transaction information unit 5131 of the RAM 513.

[0165] The determination unit 5104 checks whether the transaction related to the purchase of goods was carried out successfully, based on the transaction information temporarily stored in the transaction information unit 5131 of the RAM 513. The determination unit 5104 is an example of a checking means.

[0166] For example, the determination unit 5104 refers to the determination information 5142 in the memory unit 514 and determines whether the transaction information temporarily stored in the transaction information unit 5131 of the RAM 513 contains all the information necessary to complete the transaction. After the determination, the determination unit 5104 sends the determination result to the notification unit 5105.

[0167] In this embodiment, the determination information 5142 contains information necessary to complete the transaction, depending on the payment method (cash payment, credit payment, etc.).

[0168] For example, if the payment method is cash, the transaction information must include both registration information and accounting information, as well as information indicating that no change was forgotten, as these are the necessary pieces of information to complete the transaction.

[0169] As another example, if the payment method is credit card, the transaction information must include both registration information and accounting information, as well as information indicating that the credit card has not been left in the card reader, among other things, as information necessary to complete the transaction.

[0170] The notification unit 5105 provides notification according to the determination result of the determination unit 5104. The notification unit is an example of a notification means.

[0171] For example, if the notification unit 5105 determines that the transaction can be completed by the determination unit 5104, it displays a message on the display unit 518 prompting customer C to return the terminal device 101 to the terminal return area 205 and exit through the exit 206.

[0172] Furthermore, for example, if the determination unit 5104 determines that the transaction cannot be completed, the notification unit 5105 will provide notification according to the missing information.

[0173] For example, if both registration information and accounting information are not present in the transaction information, the notification unit 5105 displays a message on the display unit 518 prompting the customer to perform the registration process because the registration process has not been carried out. In this case, the notification unit 5105 may more specifically ask the customer C to perform the registration operation using the registration device 103, or to perform the registration operation themselves using the full self-service POS terminal 102.

[0174] As another example, if accounting information is not present in the transaction information, the notification unit 5105 displays a message on the display unit 518 prompting the user to perform accounting processing because accounting processing has not been carried out.

[0175] If the accounting information does not include information indicating that no change has been forgotten, the notification unit 5105 may notify customer C that there is a possibility that change has been forgotten and prompt them to check the location where the change is dispensed from the device used for the accounting operation (deposit / withdrawal unit 222 or 422).

[0176] Furthermore, if the accounting information does not include information indicating that the credit card has not been left out, the notification unit 5105 may notify customer C that there is a possibility that the credit card has been left out and prompt them to check the card reader (220 or 420) of the device used for the accounting operation.

[0177] An electronically controllable gate may be provided at the exit gate 206. The control unit 510 may open the gate, which is normally closed, if the determination unit 5104 determines that the transaction can be completed. Alternatively, if the determination unit 5104 determines that the transaction cannot be completed, the control unit 510 may not open the gate, but instead provide notification via the notification unit 5105 when it is determined that the transaction cannot be completed.

[0178] Next, the processes performed by the checkout system according to this embodiment will be explained using Figures 16 to 19. First, the processes performed between the terminal device 101 and the full self-service POS terminal 102 will be explained. Figure 16 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processes performed between the terminal device 101 and the full self-service POS terminal 102. As a premise, it is assumed that customer C has the terminal device 101 in their hand and that a transaction ID has already been generated.

[0179] First, the code reading unit 2101 of the control unit 210 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 reads the pairing code (step S1). For example, if customer C performs a reading operation using the scanner unit 221 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 to read the pairing code attached to the terminal device 101, the code reading unit 2101 acquires the pairing code.

[0180] Next, the pairing unit 2102 sends a pairing notification to the terminal device 101 (step S2). For example, the pairing unit 2102 sends a pairing notification via the communication unit 224 to the terminal device 101 identified by the terminal identification information that identifies the terminal device 101 recorded in the pairing code.

[0181] Next, the pairing unit 1102 of the control unit 110 of the terminal device 101 sends an approval notification to the full self-service POS terminal 102 (step S3).

[0182] For example, when the pairing unit 2102 receives input from customer C via the operation unit 117 to approve the pairing between terminal device 101 and full self-service POS terminal 102, it sends an approval notification via the communication unit 119 to the full self-service POS terminal 102, which was the source of the pairing notification. When the communication unit 224 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 receives the approval notification, the pairing between terminal device 101 and full self-service POS terminal 102 is established.

[0183] Next, the registration processing unit 2103 of the control unit 210 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 executes the registration process (step S4). For example, the registration processing unit 2103 temporarily stores product information in the product information unit 2131 of the RAM 213 according to the registration operation of the product that customer C wishes to purchase.

[0184] Next, the registration processing unit 2103 transmits the registration information to the terminal device 101 (step S5). For example, when the registration processing unit 2103 receives input from customer C pressing the transmit key 2172, it transmits the product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 as registration information to the paired terminal device 101 via the communication unit 224.

[0185] Next, the recording unit 1103 of the control unit 110 of the terminal device 101 records the registration information (step S6). For example, if the recording unit 1103 receives registration information from the full self-service POS terminal 102 via the communication unit 224, it records the registration information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the memory unit 114.

[0186] Next, the accounting processing unit 2104 of the control unit 210 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 performs accounting processing (step S7). For example, based on the product information temporarily stored in the product information unit 2131 of the RAM 213, the accounting processing unit 2104 displays a payment screen on the display unit 218 that includes buttons for selecting the payment amount and payment method to be paid by customer C. The accounting processing unit 2104 receives input from customer C regarding the selection of the payment method via the operation unit 217.

[0187] The accounting processing unit 2104 performs accounting processing according to the selected payment method. After the accounting processing is completed, the accounting processing unit 2104 controls the printer 219 to issue a receipt printed with the processed accounting information and product information related to the accounting processing.

[0188] Next, the accounting processing unit 2104 transmits accounting information (step S8). For example, after processing a receipt, the accounting processing unit 2104 transmits the accounting information to the terminal device 101 via the communication unit 224.

[0189] Next, the recording unit 1103 of the control unit 110 of the terminal device 101 records accounting information (step S9). For example, if the recording unit 1103 receives accounting information from the full self-service POS terminal 102 via the communication unit 224, it records the accounting information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the memory unit 114.

[0190] Next, the recording unit 1103 sends a completion notification to the full self-service POS terminal 102 indicating that the recording of the information received from the full self-service POS terminal 102 has been completed (step S10). For example, after the recording unit 1103 records the accounting information received from the full self-service POS terminal 102 in the transaction information unit 1142, it sends a completion notification to the full self-service POS terminal 102 via the communication unit 119.

[0191] Furthermore, after step S9, the recording unit 1103 may determine whether it has received registration information from the full self-service POS terminal 102. If it has not received registration information, the recording unit 1103 may send a registration information transmission request to the full self-service POS terminal 102 via the communication unit 119, requesting that the terminal transmit the registration information.

[0192] Next, the pairing unit 2102 of the control unit 210 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 unpairs with the terminal device 101 (step S11), and terminates this process. For example, the pairing unit 2102 unpairs with the terminal device 101 when it receives a completion notification from the terminal device 101 via the communication unit 224.

[0193] Next, we will describe the process performed between the terminal device 101 and the registration device 103. Figure 17 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the process performed between the terminal device 101 and the registration device 103. As a prerequisite, we assume that customer C has the terminal device 101 in their possession and that a transaction ID has already been generated.

[0194] The processes in steps S21 to S26 are substantially the same as those in steps S1 to S6 in Figure 16, so their explanation is omitted. Also, the processes in steps S27 to S28 are the same as those in steps S10 to S11 in Figure 16, so their explanation is omitted.

[0195] Next, we will describe the processes performed between the terminal device 101 and the accounting device 104. Figure 18 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processes performed between the terminal device 101 and the accounting device 104. As a prerequisite, we assume that the processes shown in Figure 17 above have already been executed.

[0196] First, the code reading unit 4101 of the control unit 410 of the accounting device 104 reads the pairing code (step S41). For example, if customer C performs a reading operation using the hand scanner 421 of the accounting device 104 to read the pairing code attached to the terminal device 101, the code reading unit 4101 acquires the pairing code. The processes in steps S42 to S43 are substantially the same as the process in step S2 of Figure 16, so their explanation is omitted.

[0197] Next, the request unit 4103 sends a transaction information request to the terminal device 101 requesting the transmission of transaction information (step S44). For example, the request unit 4103 sends a transaction information request to the paired terminal device 101 via the communication unit 424.

[0198] Next, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 101 transmits transaction information (step S45). For example, when the control unit 110 receives a transaction information request from the accounting device 104, it transmits transaction information, including product information (information included in the registration information) of the registered product, to the paired accounting device 104 via the communication unit 424.

[0199] Next, the request unit 4103 of the control unit 410 of the accounting device 104 stores the transaction information (step S46). For example, if the accounting device 104 receives transaction information from the terminal device 101 via the communication unit 424, the request unit 4103 temporarily stores the transaction information in the transaction information unit 4131 of the RAM 413. The processing in steps S47 to S51 is substantially the same as steps S7 to S11 in Figure 16, so the explanation is omitted.

[0200] Next, the process performed between the terminal device 101 and the check device 105 will be described. Figure 19 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the process performed between the terminal device 101 and the check device 105. The process in steps S61 to S66 is substantially the same as steps S41 to S46 in Figure 18, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0201] After step S66, the determination unit 5104 of the control unit 510 of the checking device 105 determines whether the transaction can be completed (step S67). For example, the determination unit 5104 refers to the determination information 5142 in the memory unit 514 and determines whether the transaction information temporarily stored in the transaction information unit 5131 of the RAM 513 contains all the information necessary to complete the transaction.

[0202] Next, the notification unit 5105 notifies customer C according to the judgment result (step SS68).

[0203] For example, if the notification unit 5105 determines that the transaction can be completed in step S67, it displays a message on the display unit 518 prompting customer C to return the terminal device 101 to the terminal return area 205 and exit through the exit 206. Alternatively, if the notification unit 5105 determines that the transaction cannot be completed in step S67, it displays a message on the display unit 518 corresponding to the missing information (e.g., prompting registration processing, prompting accounting processing).

[0204] Next, the pairing unit 5102 unpairs the terminal device 101 (step S69) and terminates this process. For example, the pairing unit 5102 unpairs the terminal device 101 after the notification process in step S68 is completed.

[0205] As described above, the terminal device 101 of the checkout system according to this embodiment establishes one-to-one communication with any of the full self-service POS terminal 102, registration device 103, accounting device 104, and check device 105, and acquires registration information and / or accounting information from any of the full self-service POS terminal 102, registration device 103, and accounting device 104, and stores the acquired information as transaction information in association with the transaction ID. Furthermore, once communication with the terminal device 101 is established, the check device of the checkout system according to this embodiment checks whether the transaction related to the purchase of goods was carried out successfully based on the transaction information stored in the terminal device 101.

[0206] As a result, even when accounting processing is performed in the accounting device 104 based on the product information registration process performed in the registration device 103, the accounting device 104 can perform accounting processing by referring to the registration information associated with the transaction ID. In other words, the checkout system according to this embodiment can perform accounting processing as long as it can refer to the registration information associated with the transaction ID. Therefore, when paying, customer C can select any accounting device 104 to perform accounting. Accordingly, for example, if there is an accounting device 104 that is not being used by another customer C and can be used for payment by the payment method that customer C desires, customer C can perform accounting using that accounting device 104. As a result, for example, due to constraints such as the connection relationship between the registration device 103 and the accounting device 104, even if there is an accounting device 104 that is not being used by anyone, customer C will not be able to perform accounting, and the flow of transactions will not be delayed. In other words, the checkout system according to this embodiment can improve the efficiency of transaction processing.

[0207] The above-described embodiment can also be modified and implemented by changing some of the configurations or functions of the devices in the checkout system. Therefore, the following describes modified versions of the above-described embodiment as other embodiments. In the following, we will mainly describe the differences from the above-described embodiment, and will omit detailed explanations of points that are common with what has already been described. Furthermore, the modified versions described below may be implemented individually or in combination as appropriate.

[0208] (modified version) In the embodiment described above, a configuration was described in which transaction information is stored in the transaction information section 1142 of the memory section 114 of the terminal device 101, which is a tablet terminal. In this modification, a configuration in which transaction information is stored in a portable storage medium will be described.

[0209] In this modified example, transaction information is stored in a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The USB memory is an example of a portable storage medium. The USB memory has a transaction information unit 1142. Note that the portable storage medium is not limited to a USB memory. For example, the portable storage medium may be an SD memory card or the like.

[0210] In this modified example, the control unit 210 of the full self-service POS terminal 102 and the control unit 310 of the registration device 103 have a generation unit 1101. In addition, the control unit 210 of the full self-service POS terminal 102, the control unit 310 of the registration device 103, and the control unit 410 of the accounting device 104 have a recording unit 1103.

[0211] In this modified example, customer C picks up a USB memory stick from a USB memory stick dispenser located near entrance 201. The transaction information in this modified example is recorded in the transaction information section 1142 of the USB memory stick.

[0212] For example, when customer C uses the fully self-service POS terminal 102, customer C connects a USB memory stick to the fully self-service POS terminal 102 via the USB port of the fully self-service POS terminal 102. When the USB memory stick is connected to the fully self-service POS terminal 102, the generation unit 1101 of the control unit 210 generates a transaction ID and records the transaction ID as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory stick.

[0213] Furthermore, after the registration processing by the registration processing unit 2103, the recording unit 1103 records the registration information as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory, associating it with the transaction ID. In addition, after the accounting processing by the accounting processing unit 2104, the recording unit 1103 records the accounting information as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory, associating it with the transaction ID.

[0214] Furthermore, after recording the accounting information, the pairing unit 2102 executes a process to remove the USB memory and displays a message on the display unit 218 prompting customer C to remove the USB memory.

[0215] Subsequently, customer C connects a USB memory stick to the check device 105 via the USB port of the check device 105. The determination unit 5104 of the control unit 510 refers to the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory stick and determines whether the transaction can be completed. If the determination unit 5104 determines that the transaction can be completed, the notification unit 5105 displays a message on the display unit 518 prompting customer C to return the USB memory stick to the USB memory stick return area located near the exit 206 and exit through the exit 206.

[0216] Furthermore, for example, when using a semi-self-service checkout system, customer C moves to the area where the registration device 103 is installed and hands the USB memory to operator O. Operator O connects the USB memory to the registration device 103 via the USB port of the registration device 103. When the USB memory is connected to the registration device 103, the generation unit 1101 of the control unit 310 generates a transaction ID and records the transaction ID as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory.

[0217] Furthermore, after the registration processing by the registration processing unit 3103, the recording unit 1103 associates the registration information with the transaction ID and records it as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory. After recording the registration information, the pairing unit 3102 performs a process to remove the USB memory and displays a message on the operator display unit 318 prompting operator O to remove the USB memory. Then, operator O hands the USB memory to customer C.

[0218] Subsequently, customer C moves to the area where the accounting device 104 is installed and connects a USB memory stick to the accounting device 104 via its USB port. The accounting processing unit 4105 performs accounting processing based on the product information recorded as registration information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory stick. After the accounting processing by the accounting processing unit 4105, the recording unit 1103 records the accounting information as transaction information in the transaction information unit 1142 of the USB memory stick, associating it with the transaction ID.

[0219] Furthermore, after recording the accounting information, the pairing unit 4102 executes a process to remove the USB memory and displays a message on the display unit 418 prompting customer C to remove the USB memory.

[0220] The subsequent actions of customer C and the processing by the checking device 105 are the same as when using the fully self-service POS terminal 102 described above, so we will omit the explanation.

[0221] According to this modified version, accounting processing can be performed even without the terminal device 101, thus reducing costs.

[0222] The programs executed by each device in the checkout system of this embodiment are provided as installable or executable files recorded on computer-readable recording media such as CD-ROMs, flexible disks (FDs), CD-Rs, and DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs).

[0223] Furthermore, the programs executed by each device of the checkout system according to the embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Alternatively, the programs executed by each device of the checkout system according to the embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0224] Furthermore, the program executed in the checkout system according to the embodiment may be pre-installed and provided in ROM or the like.

[0225] 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 novel embodiments can be implemented 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 in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0226] 101 Terminal device 102 Fully Self-Service POS Terminal 103 Registration device 104, 104a, 104b Accounting device 105 Check device 110, 210, 310, 410 Control Unit 1101 Generation part 1102, 2102, 3102, 4102, 5102 Pairing section 1103 Records Department 2101, 3101, 4101, 5101 Code reading unit 2103, 3103 Registration Processing Unit 2104, 4105 Accounting Processing Unit 4103, 5103 Request part 5104 Judgment section 5105 News Department [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0227] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-117654

Claims

1. A checkout system comprising: a plurality of product sales data processing devices capable of performing at least one of product registration processing and accounting processing; a terminal device that can move within the area where the product sales data processing devices are located; and a check device, The aforementioned terminal device is A communication means for establishing one-to-one communication with either the product sales data processing device or the check device, An acquisition means for acquiring actual data of the registration process and / or accounting process performed by the product sales data processing device from the product sales data processing device that is communicating with the product sales data processing device, The system includes a storage means for storing the acquired performance data, The aforementioned checking device is Once communication with the terminal device is established, a checking means checks whether the transaction related to the purchase of the product was carried out normally based on the performance data stored in the terminal device. A checkout system equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned checking device is The system further includes a notification means for notifying when the checking means detects a lack of information necessary to complete the transaction. The checkout system according to claim 1.

3. The notification means, if the performance data stored in the terminal device does not include performance data for the registration process, provides a notification prompting the device to perform the registration process. The checkout system according to claim 2.

4. The notification means, if the performance data stored in the terminal device does not include performance data for the accounting process, provides a notification prompting the device to perform the accounting process. The checkout system according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned performance data includes information indicating that no change was left behind. The notification means, if the performance data does not contain information indicating that the customer has not forgotten to take their change, will notify the customer that they may have forgotten to take their change. The checkout system according to claim 2.

6. The aforementioned performance data includes information indicating that no cards inserted into the card reader have been left in place. The notification means, if the performance data does not contain information indicating that the card has not been forgotten, notifies the customer that there is a possibility that the card has been forgotten. The checkout system according to claim 2.

7. A checkout method performed in a checkout system comprising: a plurality of product sales data processing devices capable of performing at least one of product registration processing and accounting processing; a terminal device movable within the area where the product sales data processing devices are located; and a check device, The aforementioned terminal device is The steps include establishing one-to-one communication with either the product sales data processing device or the check device, The steps include obtaining actual data of the registration process and / or accounting process performed by the product sales data processing device from the product sales data processing device that is communicating with the product sales data processing device, The steps include storing the acquired performance data in a storage unit, Execute, The aforementioned checking device is Once one-to-one communication is established with the terminal device, the system performs a step of checking whether the transaction for the purchase of the product was successfully completed based on the performance data stored in the terminal device. How to check out.

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