Transaction processing system

Abstract

To improve the convenience of accounting for users. [Solution] The transaction processing system comprises a registration machine, an information processing device, and an accounting machine. The registration machine comprises a transmission means. The transmission means transmits the input user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to the information processing device. The information processing device comprises a receiving means and a management means. The receiving means receives the user information and the unaccounted transaction information from the registration machine. The management means manages the unaccounted transaction information in association with the user information. The accounting machine comprises a transmission means, a receiving means, and an accounting means. The transmission means transmits the input user information to the information processing device. The receiving means receives the unaccounted transaction information associated with the user information from the information processing device. The accounting means processes the accounting of the transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a transaction processing system.

Background Art

[0002] In a system where the registration machine and the accounting machine are separated, after a customer registers a product on the registration machine, the customer moves to the accounting machine and performs accounting on the accounting machine.

[0003] In such a system, the customer may be confused about which accounting machine to use. If the customer can freely select and use an accounting machine, the convenience of accounting for the customer is improved.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that enables the improvement of the convenience of accounting by users.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In one embodiment, the transaction processing system comprises a registration device, an information processing device, and an accounting device. The registration device comprises a transmission means. The transmission means transmits the input user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to the information processing device. The information processing device comprises a receiving means and a management means. The receiving means receives the user information and the unaccounted transaction information from the registration device. The management means manages the unaccounted transaction information in association with the user information. The accounting device comprises a transmission means, a receiving means, and an accounting means. The transmission means transmits the input user information to the information processing device. The receiving means receives the unaccounted transaction information associated with the user information from the information processing device. The accounting means processes the accounting of the transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a transaction processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a registration machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an accounting machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of transaction management information according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of product registration processing in the transaction processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of accounting processing in the transaction processing system according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Several embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of the parts in the drawings used in the following description of embodiments may have been changed as appropriate. Also, for illustrative purposes, some components may be omitted from the drawings used in the following description of embodiments.

[0009] <Embodiment> (Example configuration) Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a transaction processing system S. Transaction processing system S is a system that communicates between multiple devices to process transactions in a store. For example, the store is a mass retailer such as a supermarket, but is not limited to this. A transaction is the transfer of fees from the customer to the store in connection with the sale of goods by the store. From the store's perspective, a transaction includes the meaning of selling goods. From the customer's perspective, a transaction includes the meaning of purchasing goods. Goods include not only physical objects but also non-tangible objects such as services or tickets. Unless otherwise specified, the term "transaction" refers to a single transaction. Customer includes the meaning of user.

[0010] The transaction processing system S includes multiple registration machines 1, multiple accounting machines 2, and one server 3. The multiple registration machines 1 and multiple accounting machines 2 are installed in the store. Server 3 is explained using a server located outside the store, such as a cloud server, as an example, but it may also be a server installed in the store, such as a store computer.

[0011] Each of the multiple registration machines 1 and multiple accounting machines 2 is connected to the server 3 via a network NW so that they can communicate with each other. The network NW includes one or more networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wireless LAN or a wired LAN.

[0012] The transaction processing system S may include one registration machine 1 instead of multiple machines. The transaction processing system S may include one accounting machine 2 instead of multiple machines. The transaction processing system S is an example of a transaction processing system that includes at least two machines.

[0013] The registration device 1 is a device that processes the product registration of a transaction. For example, the registration device 1 is a device that has at least a product registration function and can perform the operation of product registration. The operation of product registration in the registration device 1 may be performed by a customer or by a store clerk. The product registration is the registration of a product before accounting. The registered product is also referred to as a registered item. The registration device 1 is an example of a transaction processing device that serves as a registration device for processing the product registration of a transaction.

[0014] The accounting device 2 is a device that processes the accounting of a transaction. For example, the accounting device 2 is a device that has at least an accounting function and can perform the operation of accounting. The accounting device 2 is an example of a transaction processing device that serves as an accounting device for processing the accounting of a transaction.

[0015] Accounting is the payment after product registration. Accounting includes the meaning of settlement. Processing accounting includes completing the accounting. Completion of accounting includes the meaning of the conclusion of a transaction. The accounting methods for accounting include offline settlement and online settlement.

[0016] Offline settlement is accounting that does not require the accounting device 2 to cooperate with other devices via a network such as the Internet. For example, offline settlement is accounting using cash, gift certificates, etc. A gift certificate is a certificate that circulates in a form similar to cash currency. For example, gift certificates include various types of gift certificates such as product vouchers, gift vouchers, rice vouchers, beer vouchers, shareholder privilege vouchers, regional revitalization vouchers, and coupons, but are not limited to these. Note that gift certificates include physical gift certificates and digitized gift certificates.

[0017] Online settlement is accounting that is executed in cooperation with other devices via a network such as the Internet by the accounting device 2. For example, online settlement includes credit card settlement, electronic money settlement, debit card settlement, and code settlement, etc.

[0018] Server 3 is a device that manages transaction information regarding each transaction. Server 3 may manage transaction information regarding each transaction in one store, or may manage transaction information regarding each transaction in multiple stores. Server 3 is an example of an information processing device that processes information about transactions.

[0019] Transaction information is information indicating the content of a transaction. Transaction information may be unaccounted transaction information or accounted transaction information. Unaccounted transaction information is transaction information regarding an unaccounted transaction. Unaccounted means that accounting has not been completed. Unaccounted includes the meaning of an unestablished transaction where the transaction has not been concluded. Accounted transaction information is transaction information regarding an accounted transaction. Accounted means that accounting has been completed. Accounted includes the meaning of an established transaction where the transaction has been concluded.

[0020] Transaction information can include transaction identification information. Whether the transaction information is unaccounted transaction information or accounted transaction information, the transaction information can include transaction identification information. Transaction identification information is information that can identify a transaction. For example, the transaction identification information is a transaction code assigned for each transaction.

[0021] Transaction information can include transaction product information for each transaction product. Whether the transaction information is unaccounted transaction information or accounted transaction information, the transaction information can include transaction product information. A transaction product is a product that is the subject of a transaction. A transaction product corresponds to a registered product in product registration. Transaction product information is information regarding a transaction product. Transaction product information can include all or part of the information of product identification information, product name, price, quantity, and product amount.

[0022] Product identification information is information that can identify a product. For example, product identification information is a product code such as a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code. Product name is the name of the product. Price is the unit price per product. Quantity is the number of products identified by the product identification information. Product value is the amount calculated by multiplying the price and the quantity. Transaction product information may include information other than this.

[0023] Transaction information may include accounting amount information. Whether the transaction information is for an unaccounted transaction or an accounted transaction, the transaction information may include accounting amount information. Accounting amount information is information that indicates the accounting amount for the transaction. The accounting amount is an amount based on the sum of the product prices for each item in the transaction. The accounting amount is the amount required to complete the transaction. The accounting amount corresponds to the amount paid by the customer.

[0024] Transaction information may include accounting method information. If the transaction information is for an unaccounted transaction, it does not include accounting method information; however, if the transaction information is for an accounted transaction, it may include accounting method information. Accounting method information indicates the accounting method used in the accounted transaction.

[0025] Transaction information may include deposit amount information. If the transaction information is for an unaccounted transaction, it will not include deposit amount information, but if the transaction information is for an accounted transaction, it may include deposit amount information. Deposit amount information is information indicating the deposit amount. The deposit amount is the amount entered into accounting machine 2 for accounting purposes.

[0026] Transaction information may include information about the amount of change. If the transaction information is for an unaccounted transaction, it will not include information about the amount of change. However, if the transaction information is for an accounted transaction, it may include information about the amount of change. The amount of change is the amount of change given to the customer. The amount of change is calculated by subtracting the accounted amount from the amount received.

[0027] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating registration device 1. The registration device 1 includes a processing circuit 10, main memory 11, storage 12, communication circuit 13, reading device 14, input device 15, display device 16, and connection interface 17. The processing circuit 10, main memory 11, storage 12, communication circuit 13, reading device 14, input device 15, display device 16, and connection interface 17 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 2, "interface" is abbreviated as "IF".

[0028] The processing circuit 10 corresponds to the central part of the registration machine 1. The processing circuit 10 is an element that constitutes the computer of the registration machine 1. The processing circuit 10 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes by performing multiple functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. The processing circuit 10 loads programs stored in the main memory 11 or storage 12 into the main memory 11. By executing the programs loaded into the main memory 11, the processing circuit 10 makes various processes executable.

[0029] The main memory 11 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the registration machine 1. The main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the registration machine 1. The main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 11, the operating system or programs are stored. The main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 10. For example, the main memory 11 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 11 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0030] Storage 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of registration device 1. Storage 12 includes one or more storage devices. For example, the storage device may be an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor storage medium such as an SSD (Solid State Drive), and is not limited to these. Storage 12 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processing circuit 10 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 10.

[0031] Storage 12 may include a product master storage area 121. The product master storage area 121 stores the product master. The product master includes information about each product sold in the store. The product information may include all or part of the product identification information, product name, and price. The product information may also include information other than this. The product master storage area 121 is an example of a storage unit that stores the product master.

[0032] The storage 12 includes an unaccounted transaction information storage area 122. The unaccounted transaction information storage area 122 stores unaccounted transaction information based on product registration. The unaccounted transaction information storage area 122 is an example of a storage unit that stores unaccounted transaction information. The unaccounted transaction information storage area 122 may also be included in the main memory 11.

[0033] The communication circuit 13 is a circuit that includes various interfaces for transmitting or receiving signals. The communication circuit 13 connects the registered device 1 to other devices via a network NW so that it can communicate with them.

[0034] The reading device 14 is a device that reads various code symbols. The reading device 14 may be a scanner that reads by sensing, or a camera that reads by taking a picture. For example, the code symbol may be a barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. The code symbol may also be a code symbol for a product that records product identification information. The product code symbol is an image attached to the product. The code symbol may also be a code symbol that records member identification information that can identify a customer as a member. The member is a member registered with the store. For example, the member identification information is a member code. The code symbol that records member identification information may be an image attached to a member card, or an image that can be displayed on a terminal.

[0035] The input device 15 is a device that can input instructions or information to the registration device 1. The input device 15 may include a keyboard. The input device 15 may also form a touchscreen together with the display device 16.

[0036] The display device 16 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 10. For example, the display device 16 may be a liquid crystal display or an electroluminescent (EL) display.

[0037] The connection interface 17 is an interface that allows various devices to be connected to the registration device 1.

[0038] The hardware configuration of Registered Device 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. Registered Device 1 may be modified or have its components omitted or changed as appropriate, and new components added as needed.

[0039] The various means implemented by the processing circuit 10 will now be described. The processing circuit 10 implements a first receiving means 101, a registration processing means 102, a second receiving means 103, and a transmission means 104. Each means implemented by the processing circuit 10 can also be called a part or a function.

[0040] The first reception means 101 receives user information entered into the registration machine 1. User information is information that can identify a customer. For example, user information is member identification information. The first reception means 101 is an example of a reception means that receives user information entered into the registration machine 1. The first reception means 101 also includes the meaning of an acquisition means that acquires user information entered into the registration machine 1.

[0041] The registration processing means 102 processes the registration of goods for a transaction. For example, processing goods registration involves issuing transaction identification information and updating unaccounted transaction information. Updating unaccounted transaction information includes adding transaction goods information, increasing the quantity included in the transaction goods information, decreasing the quantity included in the transaction goods information, and deleting transaction goods information.

[0042] The second receiving means 103 receives a registration completion instruction entered into the registration machine 1. The registration completion instruction is an instruction to terminate product registration. The second receiving means 103 is an example of a receiving means that receives a registration completion instruction entered into the registration machine 1. The second receiving means 103 also includes the meaning of an acquisition means that acquires a registration completion instruction entered into the registration machine 1.

[0043] The transmission means 104 transmits information to the server 3. The transmission means 104 can transmit the entered user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to the server 3. The transmission means 104 may also transmit registration machine information to the server 3. The registration machine information is information that can identify the area where the registration machine 1 is installed. For example, the registration machine information is the code assigned to the registration machine 1. The area where the registration machine 1 is installed is any range. The area where the registration machine 1 is installed may be on a store basis or on a sales floor basis within a store basis.

[0044] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating two examples of accounting machines. The accounting machine 2 includes a processing circuit 20, main memory 21, storage 22, communication circuit 23, reading device 24, input device 25, display device 26, printing device 27, change dispenser 28, and connection interface 29. The processing circuit 20, main memory 21, storage 22, communication circuit 23, reading device 24, input device 25, display device 26, printing device 27, change dispenser 28, and connection interface 29 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 3, "interface" is denoted as "IF".

[0045] The processing circuit 20 corresponds to the central part of the accounting machine 2. The processing circuit 20 is an element that constitutes the computer of the accounting machine 2. The processing circuit 20 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes with multiple functions. The processing circuit 20 loads programs stored in the main memory 21 or storage 22 into the main memory 21. By executing the programs loaded into the main memory 21, the processing circuit 20 makes various processes executable.

[0046] The main memory 21 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the accounting machine 2. The main memory 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the accounting machine 2. The main memory 21 may be configured in the same way as the main memory 11 described above.

[0047] Storage 22 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of accounting machine 2. Storage 22 includes one or more storage devices. Storage 22 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by processing circuit 20 in performing various processes, and data generated by processing in processing circuit 20.

[0048] The communication circuit 23 is a circuit that includes various interfaces for transmitting or receiving signals. The communication circuit 23 connects the accounting machine 2 to other devices via a network NW so that it can communicate with them.

[0049] The reading device 24 is a device that reads various code symbols. The reading device 24 may be configured in the same way as the reading device 14 described above.

[0050] The input device 25 is a device that can input instructions or information to the accounting machine 2. The input device 25 may be configured in the same way as the input device 15 described above.

[0051] The display device 26 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 20. The display device 26 may be configured in the same manner as the display device 16 described above.

[0052] The printing device 27 is a device for issuing printed materials by printing on a medium. For example, the printing device 27 is a thermal printer or an inkjet printer, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0053] The change dispenser 28 is a device capable of inserting and dispensing cash used in accounting transactions.

[0054] The connection interface 29 is an interface that allows various devices to be connected to the accounting machine 2. For example, the connection interface 29 allows a device for reading information from a credit card to be connected to the accounting machine 2.

[0055] The hardware configuration of accounting machine 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. Accounting machine 2 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-mentioned components and add new components.

[0056] The various means implemented by the processing circuit 20 will now be described. The processing circuit 20 implements a receiving means 201, a first transmitting means 202, a receiving means 203, an accounting processing means 204, and a second transmitting means 205. Each means implemented by the processing circuit 10 can also be called a part or a function.

[0057] The reception means 201 receives user information entered into the accounting machine 2. The reception means 201 also includes the meaning of an acquisition means that obtains user information entered into the accounting machine 2.

[0058] The first transmission means 202 transmits information to the server 3. The first transmission means 202 can transmit input user information to the server 3. The first transmission means 202 is an example of a transmission means that transmits information to the server 3.

[0059] The receiving means 203 receives information from the server 3. The receiving means 203 can receive unaccounted transaction information from the server 3.

[0060] The accounting processing instrument 204 processes the accounting of a transaction to settle the accounting amount. The accounting processing instrument 204 can process the accounting of transactions related to unaccounted transaction information. Transactions related to unaccounted transaction information are unaccounted transactions.

[0061] The second transmission means 205 transmits information to the server 3. The second transmission means 205 can transmit at least notification information to the server 3 based on the accounting of the transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information. The notification information is information based on the accounting of the transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information. The notification information is information for notifying the server 3 of the completion of the accounting of the transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information. The notification information may include accounting machine information. The accounting machine information is information that can identify the area where the accounting machine 2 is installed. For example, the accounting machine information is a code assigned to the accounting machine 2. The area where the accounting machine 2 is installed is any range. The area where the accounting machine 2 is installed may be on a store basis or on a sales floor basis within a store basis.

[0062] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating server 3. Server 3 includes a processing circuit 30, main memory 31, storage 32, and communication circuit 33. The processing circuit 30, main memory 31, storage 32, and communication circuit 33 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 4, "interface" is denoted as "IF".

[0063] The processing circuit 30 corresponds to the central part of the server 3. The processing circuit 30 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 3. The processing circuit 30 includes one or more circuits that execute multiple processes by multiple functions. The processing circuit 30 loads programs stored in the main memory 31 or storage 32 into the main memory 31. By executing the programs loaded into the main memory 31, the processing circuit 30 makes various processes executable.

[0064] The main memory 31 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the server 3. The main memory 31 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 3. The main memory 31 may be configured in the same way as the main memory 11 described above.

[0065] Storage 32 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of server 3. Storage 32 includes one or more storage devices. Storage 32 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by processing circuit 30 in performing various processes, and data generated by processing in processing circuit 30.

[0066] The storage 32 includes a transaction management information storage area 321. The transaction management information storage area 321 stores transaction management information for each transaction. The transaction management information storage area 321 is an example of a storage unit that stores transaction management information for each transaction. The transaction management information includes user information and transaction information that are linked to each other. If the transaction related to the transaction information is an unaccounted transaction, the transaction information is unaccounted transaction information. If the transaction related to the transaction information is an accounted transaction, the transaction information is accounted transaction information.

[0067] Transaction management information may include registration machine information in addition to user information and transaction information. In this case, the registration machine information is linked to the transaction information. If the transaction related to the transaction information is an accounted transaction, the transaction management information may include accounted information in addition to user information and transaction information. In this case, the accounted information is linked to the transaction information. Accounted information is information that can identify that the transaction related to the transaction information is an accounted transaction. Accounted information may be accounting machine information, or information indicating that the transaction related to the transaction information is an accounted transaction. If the accounted information is linked to the transaction information, the processing circuit 10 can retrieve the transaction information as accounted transaction information. On the other hand, if the accounted information is not linked to the transaction information, the processing circuit 10 can retrieve the transaction information as unaccounted transaction information.

[0068] The communication circuit 33 is a circuit that includes various interfaces for transmitting or receiving signals. The communication circuit 33 connects the server 3 to other devices via a network NW so that they can communicate with each other.

[0069] Note that the hardware configuration of Server 3 is not limited to the configuration described above. Server 3 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-described components and add new components.

[0070] The processing circuit 30 implements a first receiving means 301, a first management means 302, a second receiving means 303, a search means 304, a transmitting means 305, a third receiving means 306, and a second management means 307. Each means implemented by the processing circuit 30 can also be called a part or a function.

[0071] The first receiving means 301 receives information from the registration device 1. The first receiving means 301 can receive user information and unaccounted transaction information from the registration device 1. The first receiving means 301 may also receive registration device information from the registration device 1. The first receiving means 301 is an example of a receiving means that receives information from the registration device 1.

[0072] The first management means 302 manages transactions based on information from the registration device 1. The first management means 302 can manage unaccounted transaction information linked to user information. The first management means 302 is an example of a management means that manages transactions based on information from the registration device 1.

[0073] The second receiving means 303 receives information from the accounting machine 2 before accounting processing. The second receiving means 303 can receive user information from the accounting machine 2. The second receiving means 303 is an example of a receiving means that receives information from the accounting machine 2 before accounting processing.

[0074] The search means 304 searches for unaccounted transaction information. Based on user information from the accounting machine 2, the search means 304 can search for unaccounted transaction information linked to user information.

[0075] The transmission means 305 transmits information to the accounting machine 2. The transmission means 305 can transmit retrieved unaccounted transaction information to the accounting machine 2.

[0076] The third receiving means 306 receives information from the accounting machine 2 after accounting processing. The third receiving means 306 can receive at least notification information from the accounting machine 2. The third receiving means 306 is an example of a receiving means that receives information from the accounting machine 2 after accounting processing.

[0077] The second management means 307 manages transactions based on information from the accounting machine 2. Based on notification information, the second management means 307 can change transactions related to unaccounted transaction information from unaccounted transactions to accounted transactions and manage them accordingly. The second management means 307 is an example of a management means that manages transactions based on information from the accounting machine 2.

[0078] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of transaction management information stored in the transaction management information storage area 321. Transaction management information includes user information and transaction information that are linked to each other. Transaction management information may also include registered machine information linked to the transaction information. If the transaction related to the transaction information is an accounted-for transaction, transaction management information may also include accounted-for information linked to the transaction information.

[0079] (Example of processing) This section describes the processing in the transaction processing system S.

[0080] The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0081] Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of product registration processing in the transaction processing system S. Here, it is assumed that the customer brings the product to registration machine 1.

[0082] The processing circuit 10 of the registration device 1 receives user information input to the registration device 1 for user authentication (ACT1). ACT1 may also be processed by the first receiving means 101. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 10 may receive member identification information as user information based on the reading of a code symbol that records member identification information using the reading device 14. The processing circuit 10 may also receive member identification information as user information based on the input operation of member identification information using the input device 15.

[0083] The processing circuit 10 of the registration machine 1 processes the registration of the transaction (ACT2). ACT2 may also be processed by the registration processing means 102. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 10 obtains product identification information about a product based on reading the product code symbol that has product identification information recorded using the reading device 14. The processing circuit 10 may also obtain product identification information about a product based on a product selection instruction entered using the input device 15. The processing circuit 10 can refer to the product master stored in the product master storage area 121 and process product registration based on the acquired product identification information.

[0084] The processing circuit 10 of the registration machine 1 receives a registration completion instruction input to the registration machine 1 (ACT3). ACT3 may also be processed by the second receiving means 103. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 10 receives a registration completion instruction input using the input device 15 after product registration.

[0085] The processing circuit 10 of the registration machine 1 transmits information to the server 3 based on the registration completion instruction (ACT4). ACT4 may also be processed by the transmission means 104. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 10 transmits the input user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to the server 3 via the network NW. In addition to the input user information and unaccounted transaction information, the processing circuit 10 may also transmit registration machine information to the server 3 via the network NW.

[0086] The processing circuit 30 of server 3 receives information from the registerer 1 (ACT11). ACT11 may also be processed by the first receiving means 301. In ACT11, for example, the processing circuit 30 receives user information and unaccounted transaction information from the registerer 1 via the network NW. In addition to user information and unaccounted transaction information, the processing circuit 30 may also receive registerer information from the registerer 1 via the network NW.

[0087] The processing circuit 30 of server 3 manages transactions based on information from the registration device 1 (ACT12). ACT12 may also be processed by the first management means 302. In ACT12, for example, the processing circuit 10 links the received user information and unaccounted transaction information and stores them in the transaction management information storage area 321. This allows the processing circuit 10 to manage the unaccounted transaction information in association with the user information. The processing circuit 10 also links the received registration device information to the unaccounted transaction information and stores it in the transaction management information storage area 321. This allows the processing circuit 10 to manage the registration device information in association with the unaccounted transaction information.

[0088] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of accounting processing in the transaction processing system S. Here, after registering their goods at registration machine 1, the customer moves from registration machine 1 to accounting machine 2 for the settlement of the transaction.

[0089] The processing circuit 20 of the accounting machine 2 receives user information entered into the accounting machine 2 for user authentication (ACT21). ACT21 may also be processed by the receiving means 201. In ACT21, for example, the processing circuit 20 may receive member identification information as user information based on the reading of a code symbol containing member identification information using the reading device 24. The processing circuit 20 may also receive member identification information as user information based on the input operation of member identification information using the input device 25.

[0090] The processing circuit 20 of the accounting machine 2 transmits information to the server 3 (ACT22). ACT22 may also be processed by the first transmission means 202. In ACT22, for example, the processing circuit 20 transmits the input user information to the server 3 via the network NW.

[0091] The processing circuit 30 of server 3 receives information from the accounting machine 2 (ACT 31). ACT 31 may also be processed by a second receiving means 303. In ACT 31, for example, the processing circuit 30 receives user information from the accounting machine 2 via the network NW.

[0092] The processing circuit 30 of server 3 searches for unaccounted transaction information in the unaccounted transaction information storage area 122 (ACT32). ACT32 may also be processed by the search means 304. In ACT32, for example, the processing circuit 30 searches for transaction information associated with user information received from accounting machine 2. If the transaction information associated with user information received from accounting machine 2 is not associated with accounted information, the processing circuit 30 can search for this transaction information as unaccounted transaction information. On the other hand, if the transaction information associated with user information received from accounting machine 2 is associated with accounted information, the processing circuit 30 can search for this transaction information as accounted transaction information. In this way, the processing circuit 30 can search for unaccounted transaction information associated with user information based on the user information from accounting machine 2.

[0093] Furthermore, the processing circuit 30 is not limited to searching for unaccounted transaction information for a single unaccounted transaction linked to user information. A customer may register products for another transaction after registering products for a certain transaction but before accounting for that transaction. In this case, the processing circuit 30 may also search for unaccounted transaction information for multiple unaccounted transactions linked to user information.

[0094] The processing circuit 30 of server 3 transmits information to the accounting machine 2 (ACT33). ACT33 may also be processed by the transmission means 305. In ACT33, for example, the processing circuit 30 transmits the retrieved unaccounted transaction information to the accounting machine 2 via the network NW.

[0095] The processing circuit 20 of accounting machine 2 receives information from server 3 (ACT23). ACT23 may also be processed by the receiving means 203. In ACT23, for example, the processing circuit 20 receives unaccounted transaction information linked to user information retrieved by server 3 via the network NW from server 3.

[0096] The processing circuit 20 of the accounting machine 2 processes the accounting of transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information received from the server 3 (ACT24). ACT24 may also be processed by the accounting processing means 204.

[0097] The processing circuit 20 of accounting machine 2 transmits information to server 3 based on the accounting of transactions related to unaccounted transaction information (ACT25). ACT25 may also be processed by a second transmission means 205. In ACT25, for example, the processing circuit 20 transmits accounted transaction information and notification information to server 3 via the network NW based on the accounting of transactions related to unaccounted transaction information. Accounted transaction information is information based on unaccounted transaction information received from server 3. For example, accounted transaction information is information included in unaccounted transaction information, plus all or part of the accounting method information, deposit amount information, and change amount information. Notification information may include accounting machine information about accounting machine 2.

[0098] The processing circuit 30 of the server 3 receives information from the accounting machine 2 based on the accounting of transactions related to unaccounted transaction information by the accounting machine 2 (ACT34). ACT34 may also be processed by the third receiving means 306. In ACT34, for example, the processing circuit 30 receives accounted transaction information and notification information from the accounting machine 2 via the network NW.

[0099] The processing circuit 30 of server 3 manages transactions based on information from accounting machine 2 (ACT 35). ACT 35 may also be processed by the second management means 307. In ACT 35, for example, the processing circuit 30 refers to transaction identification information contained in the accounted transaction information and searches for transaction information containing this transaction identification information in the transaction management information storage area 321. The retrieved transaction information is the unaccounted transaction information transmitted from server 3 to accounting machine 2. Based on the notification information, the processing circuit 30 stores the accounted information in the transaction management information storage area 321, linked to the retrieved transaction information. This allows the processing circuit 30 to manage transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information transmitted from server 3 to accounting machine 2 by changing them from unaccounted transactions to accounted transactions based on the notification information. The processing circuit 30 changes the retrieved transaction information to the received accounted transaction information.

[0100] As described above, registration machine 1 can transmit the entered user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to server 3. Server 3 can manage the unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information. Accounting machine 2 can receive the unaccounted transaction information linked to the entered user information from server 3. In this way, since the transaction processing system S processes unaccounted transaction information using user information, customers can freely choose and use accounting machines by using their user information. This eliminates the need for customers to wonder which accounting machine to use. Customers can choose and use an available accounting machine. Customers can use an accounting machine that supports their desired accounting method. Therefore, the convenience of accounting for customers is improved.

[0101] As mentioned above, user information is member identification information. Since member identification information is commonly used for point accrual and other purposes during shopping, customers will find the transaction processing system S easy to use.

[0102] (modified version) In addition, in ACT32, server 3 may search for unaccounted transaction information based on product registration at registration machine 1 located in the same area as accounting machine 2. In this example, in ACT22, the processing circuit 20 of accounting machine 2 sends accounting machine information about accounting machine 2, in addition to the input user information, to the server 3 via the network NW. In ACT31, the processing circuit 30 of server 3 receives accounting machine information about accounting machine 2, in addition to the user information, from accounting machine 2 via the network NW.

[0103] In ACT32, the processing circuit 30 of server 3 searches for transaction information that is linked to user information received from accounting machine 2 and is linked to registered machine information that can identify the same area as the area identified by accounting machine information received from accounting machine 2. If accounting information is not linked to this transaction information, the processing circuit 30 can search for this transaction information as unaccounted transaction information. On the other hand, if accounting information is linked to this transaction information, the processing circuit 30 can search for this transaction information as accounted transaction information. As a result, the processing circuit 30 can search for unaccounted transaction information that is linked to user information and is linked to registered machine information that can identify the same area as the area identified by accounting machine information, based on user information and notification information from accounting machine.

[0104] Server 3 can search for unaccounted transaction information that is linked to user information and is also linked to registered machine information that can identify the same area as the area identified by the accounting machine information. This allows server 3 to process unaccounted transaction information based on product registration in a certain area so that accounting is performed in that area. On the other hand, server 3 can also process unaccounted transaction information based on product registration in a certain area so that accounting cannot be performed in another area. In this way, server 3 can prevent the product registration and accounting of the same transaction from being processed separately in different stores or different sales areas. For example, a customer may register product a for transaction a at sales area A, but before accounting for transaction a, they may register product b for transaction b at sales area B. Even in such a case, server 3 can prevent accounting for transaction a from being performed at the accounting machine in sales area B.

[0105] <Other Embodiments> In the embodiments described above, member identification information was explained as an example of user information, but the invention is not limited to this. User information may also be image information obtained from customers based on camera photography.

[0106] In the embodiments described above, a device installed in a store was used as an example of a registration device, but the invention is not limited to this. The registration device may be a portable device that allows customers to register products. The portable device may be a dedicated terminal mounted on a shopping cart, a mobile terminal provided in advance by the store, or a mobile terminal owned by the customer.

[0107] In the embodiments described above, a device installed in a store was used as an example of a payment machine, but the invention is not limited to this. The payment machine may be a portable device that allows customers to perform payment operations. The portable device may be a mobile terminal owned by the customer.

[0108] Each of the means implemented by the processing circuit 10 described in the above embodiment may be implemented by a server that can communicate with the registration machine 1. The server that can communicate with the registration machine 1 may be a different server from server 3, or it may be server 3. In this case, the server that can communicate with the registration machine 1 is an example of a registration machine that processes the registration of goods for a transaction.

[0109] Each of the means implemented by the processing circuit 20 described in the above embodiment may be implemented by a server that can communicate with the accounting machine 2. The server that can communicate with the accounting machine 2 may be a different server from server 3, or it may be server 3. In this case, the server that can communicate with the accounting machine 2 is an example of an accounting machine that processes the accounting of transactions.

[0110] Each means implemented by the processing circuit 10 described in the above-described embodiment is not limited to being implemented in a single device such as the registration device 1. Each means may be implemented in a distributed manner across multiple devices. In this case, the collection of multiple devices is an example of a registration device.

[0111] Each means implemented by the processing circuit 20 described in the above-described embodiment is not limited to being implemented in a single device such as the accounting machine 2. Each means may be implemented in a distributed manner across multiple devices. In this case, the collection of multiple devices is an example of an accounting machine.

[0112] Each means implemented by the processing circuit 30 described in the above-described embodiment is not limited to being implemented on a single device such as the server 3. Each means may be implemented in a distributed manner across multiple devices. In this case, the collection of multiple devices is an example of an information processing device.

[0113] The embodiments described above may be applied to methods performed by a device. The embodiments described above may be applied to methods performed by multiple devices included in a transaction processing system. The embodiments described above may be applied to a program that can cause a device's computer to perform each function. The embodiments described above may be applied to a recording medium that stores the program.

[0114] Each of the one or more circuits that make up a processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs some of the multiple processes. Some of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be contained in a single device, or they may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0115] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0116] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of 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.

[0117] The transaction processing system in some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (A1) A transaction processing system comprising a registration machine, an information processing machine, and an accounting machine, The registration machine includes a transmission means for transmitting the entered user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to the information processing device. The aforementioned information processing device is Receiving means for receiving the user information and the unaccounted transaction information from the registration device, A management means for managing the unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information, Equipped with, The aforementioned accounting machine, A transmission means for transmitting the input user information to the information processing device, A receiving means for receiving the unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information from the information processing device, An accounting instrument for processing the accounting of transactions related to the aforementioned unaccounted transaction information, Equipped with, Transaction processing system. (A2) The information processing device is Receiving means for receiving the aforementioned user information from the accounting machine, A search means for searching for unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information based on the user information from the accounting machine, A transmission means for transmitting the retrieved unaccounted transaction information to the accounting machine, The transaction processing system described in (A1) further includes the following: (A3) The accounting machine further comprises a transmission means for transmitting notification information based on accounting of transactions relating to the unaccounted transaction information to the information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device is A receiving means for receiving the aforementioned notification information from the accounting machine, A management means for managing transactions related to the aforementioned unaccounted transaction information by changing them from unaccounted transactions to accounted transactions, based on the aforementioned notification information. Furthermore, The transaction processing system described in (A1). (A4) The user information mentioned above is information that can identify the customer as a member. The transaction processing system described in (A1). (A5) The transmission means of the registration machine transmits registration machine information that can identify the area where the registration machine is installed to the information processing device, The management means of the information processing device manages the registered machine information in association with the unaccounted transaction information, The transmitting means of the accounting machine transmits accounting machine information that can identify the area where the accounting machine is installed to the information processing device. The search means of the information processing device searches for unaccounted transaction information linked to registered machine information that is linked to the user information and is capable of identifying the same area as the area identified by the accounting machine information, based on the user information and accounting machine information from the accounting machine. The transaction processing system described in (A2).

[0118] The registration machine in some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (B1) A registration machine in a transaction processing system comprising a registration machine for processing product registration, an information processing device for managing transaction information for each transaction, and an accounting machine for processing accounting, A receiving means for receiving entered user information, A transmission means for transmitting the input user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to the information processing device, A registered device equipped with the following features.

[0119] The accounting machine in some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (C1) An accounting machine in a transaction processing system comprising a registration machine for processing product registration, an information processing device for managing transaction information for each transaction, and an accounting machine for processing accounting, A receiving means for receiving entered user information, A first transmission means for transmitting the input user information to the information processing device, A receiving means for receiving unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information from the information processing device, An accounting instrument for processing the accounting of transactions related to the aforementioned unaccounted transaction information, An accounting machine is provided. (C2) Further comprising a second transmission means for transmitting notification information based on accounting for transactions relating to the unaccounted transaction information to the information processing device, The accounting machine described in (C1).

[0120] The information processing device in some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (D1) An information processing device in a transaction processing system comprising a registration machine for processing product registration, an information processing device for managing transaction information for each transaction, and an accounting machine for processing accounting, A first receiving means that receives user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration entered into the registration machine from the registration machine, A first management means for managing the unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information, An information processing device equipped with the following features. (D2) A second receiving means for receiving the user information from the accounting machine, A search means for searching for unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information based on the user information from the accounting machine, A transmission means for transmitting the retrieved unaccounted transaction information to the accounting machine, The information processing device described in (D1) further comprises the following: (D3) A third receiving means for receiving notification information based on accounting for transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information from the accounting machine, A second management means that, based on the aforementioned notification information, changes the transactions related to the aforementioned unaccounted transaction information from unaccounted transactions to accounted transactions for management purposes, Furthermore, The information processing device described in (D1). (D4) The first receiving means receives registration information from the registration device that can identify the area where the registration device is installed, The first management means manages the registration machine information in association with the unaccounted transaction information, The second receiving means receives accounting machine information from the accounting machine that can identify the area where the accounting machine is installed, The search means searches for the unaccounted transaction information linked to the registered machine information that is linked to the user information and is capable of identifying the same area as the area identified by the accounting machine information, based on the user information and accounting machine information from the accounting machine. The information processing device described in (D2). [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1...Registering machine, 2...Accounting machine, 3...Server, 10...Processing circuit, 11...Main memory, 12...Storage, 13...Communication circuit, 14...Reading device, 15...Input device, 16...Display device, 17...Connection interface, 20...Processing circuit, 21...Main memory, 22...Storage, 23...Communication circuit, 24...Reading device, 25...Input device, 26...Display device, 27...Printing device, 28...Cash dispenser, 29...Connection interface, 30...Processing circuit, 31...Main memory, 32...Storage, 33...Communication circuit, 10 1...First receiving means, 102...Registration processing means, 103...Second receiving means, 104...Transmission means, 121...Product master storage area, 122...Unaccounted transaction information storage area, 201...Receiving means, 202...First transmission means, 203...Receiving means, 204...Accounting processing means, 205...Second transmission means, 301...First receiving means, 302...First management means, 303...Second receiving means, 304...Search means, 305...Transmission means, 306...Third receiving means, 307...Second management means, 321...Transaction management information storage area, NW...Network.

Claims

1. A transaction processing system comprising a registration machine, an information processing machine, and an accounting machine, The registration machine includes a transmission means for transmitting the entered user information and unaccounted transaction information based on product registration to the information processing device. The aforementioned information processing device is Receiving means for receiving the user information and the unaccounted transaction information from the registration device, A management means for managing the unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information, Equipped with, The aforementioned accounting machine, A transmission means for transmitting the input user information to the information processing device, A receiving means for receiving the unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information from the information processing device, An accounting instrument for processing the accounting of transactions related to the aforementioned unaccounted transaction information, Equipped with, Transaction processing system.

2. The aforementioned information processing device is Receiving means for receiving the aforementioned user information from the accounting machine, A search means for searching for unaccounted transaction information linked to the user information based on the user information from the accounting machine, A transmission means for transmitting the retrieved unaccounted transaction information to the accounting machine, The transaction processing system according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The accounting machine further comprises a transmission means for transmitting notification information based on accounting for transactions related to the unaccounted transaction information to the information processing device, The aforementioned information processing device is A receiving means for receiving the aforementioned notification information from the accounting machine, A management means for managing transactions related to the aforementioned unaccounted transaction information by changing them from unaccounted transactions to accounted transactions, based on the aforementioned notification information. Furthermore, The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned user information is information that can identify a customer as a member. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

5. The transmission means of the registration machine transmits registration machine information that can identify the area where the registration machine is installed to the information processing device. The management means of the information processing device manages the registered machine information in association with the unaccounted transaction information, The transmitting means of the accounting machine transmits accounting machine information that can identify the area where the accounting machine is installed to the information processing device. The search means of the information processing device searches for unaccounted transaction information linked to registered machine information that is linked to the user information and is capable of identifying the same area as the area identified by the accounting machine information, based on the user information and accounting machine information from the accounting machine. The transaction processing system according to claim 2.

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