Product sales data processing device and program

Abstract

To efficiently determine whether the necessary measures stipulated by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act are being taken for customers. [Solution] The product sales data processing device of the embodiment comprises a first acquisition means, a determination means, a detection means, and a restriction means. The first acquisition means acquires product information that can identify the product from an image of the product. The determination means determines whether the product identified by the product information acquired by the first acquisition means is a restricted product, based on correspondence information which associates product information of each product sold in the store with information indicating that a restricted product is a restricted product for which a predetermined action is required when selling that product. If the product is determined to be a restricted product, the detection means detects a completed action sticker from an image of the product indicating that the predetermined action has been taken. If the product is a restricted product and no completed action sticker is detected, the restriction means restricts the processing related to the sale of the product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a product sales data processing apparatus and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In the Act on Securing the Quality, Efficacy and Safety of Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices, etc. (hereinafter also referred to as the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act), pharmacists or registered sellers corresponding to the classification of pharmaceuticals are required to provide face-to-face explanations and guidance to pharmaceutical sellers, confirm the name, age, purchase status at other stores, and whether the purchaser has not purchased more than the required quantity, and further create sales records.

[0003] Conventionally, in stores selling pharmaceuticals, after pharmacists or registered sellers have made the above responses, they perform processing such as accounting, or attach a key to the pharmaceutical display shelf, and after providing product explanations, pharmacists or registered sellers take out products from the display shelf and hand them to customers. This prevents the sale of pharmaceuticals to customers without the necessary responses being taken.

[0004] Recently, due to a shortage of staff and soaring labor costs, full-service self-checkout where customers perform operations from product registration to accounting has become widespread even in stores selling pharmaceuticals. However, there are the following problems when purchasing pharmaceuticals at full-service self-checkout.

[0005] For example, when a customer registers a pharmaceutical at full-service self-checkout, full-service self-checkout cannot determine whether the necessary responses stipulated by the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act have been taken for the customer. Therefore, when a customer registers a pharmaceutical at full-service self-checkout, responses such as calling a store clerk are taken. In this case, even though full-service self-checkout has been introduced, it may not be possible to improve the efficiency of store clerks' work.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a product sales data processing device and program that can efficiently determine whether the necessary measures stipulated by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act have been taken for the customer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The product sales data processing device of the embodiment comprises a first acquisition means, a determination means, a detection means, and a restriction means. The first acquisition means acquires product information that can identify a product from an image of the product. The determination means determines whether a product identified by the product information acquired by the first acquisition means is a restricted product, based on correspondence information which associates product information of each product sold in the store with information indicating that a restricted product is a restricted product for which a predetermined action is required when selling that product. If the detection means determines that a product is a restricted product, it detects a completed action sticker from an image of the product indicating that the predetermined action has been taken. If the product is a restricted product and no completed action sticker is detected, the restriction means restricts the processing related to the sale of the product. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front view showing an example of the external appearance of a self-service POS terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a self-service POS terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the functional configuration of a self-service POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of the described seal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the placement of the described seal according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by a self-service POS terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for detecting the corresponding flag according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the detection process for additional matched flags according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes in detail embodiments of a product sales data processing device and program with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0010] Figure 1 is a front view showing an example of the external appearance of the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment. The self-service POS terminal 1 is an example of a product sales data processing device according to this embodiment. The self-service POS (Point of Sales) terminal 1 is a POS terminal that performs product registration processing and accounting processing based on customer operations.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the self-service POS terminal 1 has, for example, a vertically elongated, roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape and comprises a first housing 2 and a second housing 3. The first housing 2 is located on the lower side of the roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape and houses the deposit / withdrawal unit 4 inside. Under the control of the control unit, which will be described later, the deposit / withdrawal unit 4 deposits money received from customers and dispenses change to be paid to customers.

[0012] The second housing 3 is located on the upper side of a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape and houses the control unit, which will be described later. The second housing 3 also includes a code reading unit 5, a card reading unit 6, and a printing unit 7 as user interfaces.

[0013] The code reading unit 5 is a reading device that reads information held in code symbols such as barcodes and 2D codes. The code reading unit 5 reads the code symbol through the reading window 51 formed in the second housing 3.

[0014] For example, the code reading unit 5 reads code symbols attached to products or code symbols displayed on the user's mobile device by capturing images of the products. The information held in the code symbols is, for example, a product code that can identify individual products.

[0015] The product code is an example of product information in this embodiment. Reading the product code by the code reading unit 5 is an example of acquiring product information. The method of acquiring product information is not limited to reading the code symbol; it may also include taking a picture of the product's appearance with a camera, or having the user input the product code. Furthermore, an image of the product's appearance may also be an example of product information.

[0016] Furthermore, the code reading unit 5 is not limited to a type that reads code symbols through a reading window 51 formed in the second housing 3, but may also be a handheld scanner that can be held and operated by the user.

[0017] The card reader unit 6 is a reading device that reads information held on a card-type medium. The card reader unit 6 reads information from a card medium inserted into the card slot 61. For example, the card reader unit 6 reads information related to electronic payments from credit cards or electronic money cards.

[0018] The printing unit 7 is a printing device such as a thermal printer. The printing unit 7 prints a receipt for the product purchased by the user and outputs (issues) the printed receipt from the receipt issuing slot 71 formed in the second housing 3.

[0019] A receipt is a piece of paper that lists the details of the purchased items and the total amount for a single transaction. In this embodiment, the receipt also has an image printed on it that corresponds to the voice selected by the customer. The printing unit 7 may also output not only receipts, but also papers with various coupons and sales information printed on them.

[0020] In addition, the self-POS terminal 1 includes a display operation unit 8. The display operation unit 8 is provided on the upper surface or the like of the second housing 3. The display operation unit 8 includes a display unit 81 composed of a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and an operation unit 82 composed of a touch panel or the like.

[0021] The display unit 81 displays various kinds of information and images under the control of a control unit described later. The operation unit 82 is provided on the surface of the display unit 81, and outputs information based on the position touched by the user to the control unit. The operation unit 82 receives a touch input from the user for an icon indicating product information displayed on the display unit 81. When the operation unit 82 receives a touch input, it outputs a product code to the control unit.

[0022] In addition, a basket placement table 10 is provided on one side or the side of the self-POS terminal 1. The basket placement table 10 is a table for placing baskets, and is used, for example, when placing a basket containing products.

[0023] Note that the configuration of the self-POS terminal 1 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1. For example, the self-POS terminal 1 may include a bagging table or the like for bagging products after reading the code symbol by the code reading unit 5. In this case, the bagging table is preferably provided, for example, on the other side of the self-POS terminal 1 (the side opposite to the basket placement table 10).

[0024] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the self-POS terminal 1 includes the above-described deposit / withdrawal unit 4, code reading unit 5, card reading unit 6, printing unit 7, display unit 81, operation unit 82, and the like.

[0025] In addition, the self-POS terminal 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a storage unit 14, a communication unit 15, and the like. The CPU 11 is connected to each of the hardware configurations shown in FIG. 2 via a bus or the like.

[0026] The CPU 11 is an example of a processor and comprehensively controls each part of the self-service POS terminal 1. The ROM 12 stores various programs. The RAM 13 is a workspace for displaying programs and various data. Here, the CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 constitute a control unit 100, which is an example of a computer.

[0027] The storage unit 14 has a storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory, and retains its contents even when the power is cut off. The storage unit 14 stores various programs and setting information that the CPU 11 can execute. The storage unit 14 also stores product master 141 and processed label information 142.

[0028] Product Master 141 is a database in which product information is registered and associated with product codes. Product Master 141 is an example of such associated information. In Product Master 141, for example, product name, price, discount information, product PR (Public Relations) information, and information indicating that an explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson is required are registered and associated with product codes. PR information includes, for example, information on coupons issued when a product is purchased.

[0029] Furthermore, in product master 141, product codes for pharmaceuticals requiring pharmacist assistance under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act (Category 1 pharmaceuticals) may be associated with "◎", while product codes for pharmaceuticals requiring assistance from a pharmacist or registered salesperson under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act (Category 2 and Category 3 pharmaceuticals) may be associated with "〇". This makes it possible to distinguish between pharmaceuticals that cannot be sold without a pharmacist's explanation and pharmaceuticals that can be sold with the assistance of a registered salesperson in product master 141.

[0030] The processed sticker information 142 is information for managing the status of registration and accounting processing for products to which an explained sticker EL (see Figures 5 and 6) indicating that a product description has been received from a pharmacist or registered salesperson has been affixed. The explained sticker EL is an example of a processed sticker. The explained sticker EL will be described later.

[0031] In the processed seal information 142, for example, information representing the execution date and time of the registration process and information representing the execution date and time of the accounting process are registered in association with the seal ID that identifies the explained seal EL.

[0032] The communication unit 15 is a communication interface that can connect to a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) (not shown). The communication unit 15 communicates with external devices such as a store server installed in the store or an electronic payment server that provides electronic payment services, for example, via the network.

[0033] Next, the functional configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment.

[0034] The self-service POS terminal 1 operates according to a program stored in the memory unit 14, with the control unit 100 acting in accordance with the program, thereby realizing the image acquisition unit 111, barcode detection unit 112, determination unit 113, flag detection unit 114, 2D code detection unit 115, information comparison unit 116, registration processing unit 117, and accounting processing unit 118, as shown in Figure 3.

[0035] More specifically, the program executed in the self-service POS terminal 1 of this embodiment has a modular configuration that includes the above-mentioned parts (image acquisition unit 111, barcode detection unit 112, determination unit 113, flag detection unit 114, 2D code detection unit 115, information comparison unit 116, registration processing unit 117, and accounting processing unit 118). The CPU (processor) 11 reads the program from a storage medium such as the memory unit 14 and loads the above-mentioned parts onto the main memory such as the RAM 13.

[0036] As a result, the image acquisition unit 111, barcode detection unit 112, determination unit 113, flag detection unit 114, 2D code detection unit 115, information comparison unit 116, registration processing unit 117, and accounting processing unit 118 are generated on the main memory. Note that these functions are just examples, and the self-POS terminal 1 may have other functions as well.

[0037] The program of this embodiment may be stored in the storage unit 14 in advance, or it may be stored on another computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by downloading it to the self-service POS terminal 1 via the network.

[0038] Furthermore, the program executed by the self-service POS terminal 1 of this embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet. Alternatively, the program executed by the self-service POS terminal 1 of this embodiment may be provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Additionally, some or all of the functional configurations of the self-service POS terminal 1 may be implemented as hardware configurations using dedicated circuits or the like mounted on the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0039] The image acquisition unit 111 outputs an imaging ON signal to the code reading unit 5, causing the code reading unit 5 to start the imaging operation. Alternatively, when the image acquisition unit 111 receives an instruction from the flag detection unit 114, it may acquire the image captured by the code reading unit 5 and store it in the image work area of ​​the RAM 13.

[0040] The barcode detection unit 112 detects code symbols from the image captured by the image capture unit 111. Specifically, the barcode detection unit 112 performs processing such as detecting barcodes using pattern matching technology. The barcode detection unit 112 reads the product code corresponding to the barcode detected according to a predetermined decoding method. In this case, the barcode detection unit 112 is an example of the first acquisition means.

[0041] The determination unit 113 determines, based on the product code, whether the product corresponding to that product code is a product that requires the services of a pharmacist or registered salesperson under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act. Products that require the services of a pharmacist or registered salesperson are an example of restricted products.

[0042] For example, the determination unit 113 refers to the product master 141 in the storage unit 14 and determines whether information indicating that an explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson is required is associated with the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112.

[0043] If information indicating that an explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson is associated with the product code, the determination unit 113 determines that the product corresponding to the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112 is a product that requires an explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson. On the other hand, if information indicating that an explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson is not associated with the product, the determination unit 113 determines that the product is not a product that requires an explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson.

[0044] The flag detection unit 114 detects the corresponding flag EF (see Figure 4), which indicates that the product has an explanatory sticker EL affixed to it. For example, if the determination unit 113 determines that the product requires assistance from a pharmacist or registered salesperson, the flag detection unit 114 detects the image of the corresponding flag EF contained in the explanatory sticker EL from the image stored in the image work area of ​​the RAM 13 by the image acquisition unit 111.

[0045] Furthermore, for example, the flag detection unit 114 performs processes to start and end the detection failure prevention timer.

[0046] Here, the detection omission prevention timer is a timer for preventing the detection of the corrected flag EF. In this embodiment, the flag detection unit 114 starts the detection omission prevention timer when the determination unit 113 determines that the product corresponding to the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112 is a product that requires handling by a pharmacist or registered salesperson. The flag detection unit 114 also stops the detection omission prevention timer after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0047] From the start to the end of the detection failure prevention timer, the image acquisition unit 111 repeatedly acquires the image captured by the code reading unit 5 and stores it in the image work area of ​​the RAM 13.

[0048] Furthermore, if the flag detection unit 114 fails to detect the corrected flag EF even after the detection failure prevention timer has finished, it notifies the customer asking whether the product has an explained sticker EL attached to it. For example, the flag detection unit 114 controls the display unit 81 to display the message "Is the explained sticker attached to the product?" along with a Yes button and a No button.

[0049] Furthermore, if the flag detection unit 114 receives a "No" button input from the customer regarding the above message, it will notify the customer to receive a product description from a pharmacist or registered salesperson. For example, the flag detection unit 114 controls the display unit 81 to display a message such as, "This product requires an explanation from a pharmacist or registered salesperson when purchased. Please receive an explanation about the product from a pharmacist or registered salesperson."

[0050] On the other hand, if the customer selects "Yes" in response to the above message, the system will notify the customer to hold the explained sticker EL over the code reading unit 5. For example, the flag detection unit 114 will display a message such as "Please hold the explained sticker over the reading window" on the display unit 81. In parallel with the notification, the flag detection unit 114 will also start a timer to wait for the sticker to be held over the reader.

[0051] Here, the hold-and-hold timer is a timer that ensures time for the customer to hold the explained sticker EL over the reading window 51. In this embodiment, the flag detection unit 114 starts the hold-and-hold timer when it notifies the customer to hold the explained sticker EL over the code reading unit 5, and ends the hold-and-hold timer after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0052] By the way, if the explained sticker EL cannot be detected even after the waiting timer is terminated, it is highly likely that the explained sticker EL is peeling off, or the corrected flag EF is difficult to recognize, making it impossible to detect the corrected flag EF. In such cases, if the code reading unit 5 is to repeat imaging until the explained sticker EL can be detected, the process may loop and not be able to proceed.

[0053] In this embodiment, as described above, if the explained seal EL cannot be detected even after the waiting timer has finished, the flag detection unit 114 notifies the customer that the explained seal EL cannot be detected. This allows the customer to recognize that there may be some reason why the explained seal EL cannot be detected.

[0054] The following describes the explained sticker EL, which includes the completed flag EF, using Figures 4 and 5. The explained sticker EL is a sticker issued after a pharmacist or registered salesperson has provided a product description. The self-service POS terminal 1 can confirm that the necessary steps for selling pharmaceuticals have been taken by detecting the explained sticker EL.

[0055] Figure 4 illustrates an example of the appearance of the described seal EL according to the embodiment. In the example of Figure 4, the described seal EL has a corresponding flag EF, a two-dimensional code TC, and a description field IC.

[0056] The "Completed" flag EF indicates that the "Explained" sticker EL has been affixed to the product. The 2D code TC holds information related to the sale of the drug, such as the sticker ID that identifies the "Explained" sticker EL, drug identification information, drug name, number of units sold, and the date and time the explanation was given. The explanation field IC prints the drug name, number of units sold, and the date and time the explanation was given, which are included in the related information.

[0057] Here, the same number of explanatory stickers EL are issued as the number of units sold. For example, if 5 units of a certain medicine are sold, 5 explanatory stickers EL will be issued. The 2D code TC of the 5 explanatory stickers EL will hold the information that the number of units sold is 1 / 5, 2 / 5, 3 / 5, 4 / 5, and 5 / 5, respectively. In addition, the information that the number of units sold is 1 / 5, 2 / 5, 3 / 5, 4 / 5, and 5 / 5, respectively, will be printed on the explanation field IC of the 5 explanatory stickers EL.

[0058] Here, for example, the "Explained" sticker EL is handed to the customer by a pharmacist or registered salesperson after the product explanation. In this case, the customer affixes the "Explained" sticker EL to the drug package themselves.

[0059] Figure 5 illustrates an example of the placement of the described seal EL according to the embodiment. Figure 5 shows an example where the described seal EL is affixed to a cold medicine package.

[0060] As shown in Figure 5, it is preferable that the explained seal EL be affixed near where the barcode BC is printed on the pharmaceutical PH package. This is because, in order to detect the barcode, it is necessary to image the entire barcode BC, and if the seal is placed near where the barcode BC is printed, there is a higher probability that the corresponding flag EF will be imaged along with the barcode BC.

[0061] Returning to Figure 3, let's continue the explanation. The 2D code detection unit 115 detects the 2D code TC when the flag detection unit 114 detects the corresponding flag EF. For example, the 2D code detection unit 115 detects the 2D code TC from the image captured by the image acquisition unit 111.

[0062] Specifically, the 2D code detection unit 115 performs processing such as detecting a 2D code TC from a predetermined finder pattern. The 2D code detection unit 115 reads related information corresponding to the 2D code TC detected according to a predetermined decoding method. In this case, the 2D code detection unit 115 is an example of a second acquisition means.

[0063] The information comparison unit 116 compares the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 with the product information of the product corresponding to the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112.

[0064] For example, the information comparison unit 116 refers to the product master 141 and compares the drug name included in the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 with the product name of the product corresponding to the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112. In this case, the product name is an example of product information.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, the information comparison unit 116 compares the number of units sold included in the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 with the number of units sold associated with the product code read by the provisionally registered barcode detection unit 112.

[0066] Specifically, if the number of units sold included in the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 is not 1 / 1, the information comparison unit 116 provisionally registers in the RAM 13 the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112, the product information corresponding to that product code, and the number of units sold included in the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 (for example, 1 / 5).

[0067] The information comparison unit 116 then compares the denominator of the sales quantity included in the related information (for example, 5) with the number of products corresponding to the product codes read by the barcode detection unit 112 that have been provisionally registered so far (for example, if 1 / 5 and 2 / 5 are provisionally registered, it determines that the number of provisionally registered products is 2). In this case, the number of products is an example of product information.

[0068] The registration processing unit 117 executes a registration process to register product information based on the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112.

[0069] For example, the registration processing unit 117 identifies the product information for the corresponding product by comparing the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112 with each product code stored in the product master 141. The registration processing unit 117 then stores the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112 and the product information corresponding to that product code in the storage unit 14.

[0070] Furthermore, for example, the registration processing unit 117 restricts the registration process according to the comparison result by the information comparison unit 116 between the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 and the product information of the product corresponding to the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112. In this case, the registration processing unit 117 is an example of a restricting means.

[0071] For example, the registration processing unit 117 restricts the registration process if the name of the drug included in the related information does not match the product name of the product corresponding to the read product code. This is because there is a high possibility that the flag detection unit 114 has detected the corresponding flag EF on the explained sticker EL attached to another product, or that the explained sticker EL issued for another product has been attached to the product corresponding to the read product code.

[0072] In this case, the registration processing unit 117 may also provide notification by displaying a message on the display unit 81 prompting the user to check the contents of the explained sticker EL, such as "Please check whether the product name of the product to which the explained sticker is attached matches the name of the medicine printed on the explained sticker."

[0073] As another example, if the denominator of the sales quantity included in the related information does not match the number of products corresponding to the product codes read by the barcode detection unit 112 that have been provisionally registered so far, the registration processing unit 117 will restrict the registration process until they match. This is to prevent the omission of registering products that require the attention of a pharmacist or registered salesperson.

[0074] In this case, the registration processing unit 117 may also display a message on the display unit 81 indicating that the registration process will be restricted to prevent registration errors, such as "Product registration will be suspended until X units (number of units sold) of XX (product name) are scanned."

[0075] Furthermore, for example, the registration processing unit 117 restricts the registration process if it determines that a processed and explained sticker EL has been affixed to the product. Specifically, the registration processing unit 117 refers to the processed sticker information 142 in the storage unit 14 and determines that a processed and explained sticker EL has been affixed to the product if the sticker ID included in the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 is registered in association with the registration information and accounting information.

[0076] In this case, the registration processing unit 117 may also display a message on the display unit 81 prompting the user to check whether the explained sticker EL is correctly affixed, such as "It appears that a processed explained sticker has been affixed to the product. Please check if the explained sticker handed to you by the pharmacist on XX (date and time of service) is affixed."

[0077] This prevents customers from using previously issued explanatory stickers (EL) to purchase products that require explanation from a pharmacist or registered salesperson without receiving a product description.

[0078] Furthermore, when the customer instructs the end of the reading process, the registration processing unit 117 associates the seal ID included in the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 with the product code and the product information (registration information) corresponding to the product code, and registers it in the processed seal information 142.

[0079] The accounting processing unit 118 performs accounting processing based on the product information stored in the storage unit 14.

[0080] For example, after the customer instructs the end of the reading process, the accounting processing unit 118 displays a payment screen on the display unit 81, which includes buttons for the customer to select the payment amount and payment method, based on the product information stored in the storage unit 14.

[0081] When the accounting processing unit 118 receives input from the customer via the operation unit 82 to select cash payment, it displays a message on the display unit 81 prompting the customer to perform an accounting operation to deposit cash via the deposit / withdrawal unit 4. The accounting processing unit 118 calculates the amount of change based on the deposit received by the customer and dispenses the change from the deposit / withdrawal unit 4.

[0082] Furthermore, if the system receives input from the customer via the operation unit 82 to select payment by credit card, the display unit 81 displays a message prompting the customer to insert their credit card into the card reader unit 6 to perform the payment operation. The accounting processing unit 118 performs the credit card payment processing based on the product information stored in the storage unit 14.

[0083] Although the above describes examples of payment by cash and credit card, the accounting processing unit 118 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.

[0084] After the accounting process is completed, the accounting processing unit 118 controls the printing unit 7 to issue a receipt that prints the processed accounting information and the product information stored in the storage unit 14.

[0085] After the receipt issuance process described above, or in parallel with the receipt issuance process, the accounting processing unit 118 associates the seal ID included in the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 with the registration information and accounting information, and registers it in the processed seal information 142.

[0086] Next, the self-service POS terminal 1 will be explained using Figures 6 to 8. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0087] Upon receiving an instruction from the customer to start the reading process, the image acquisition unit 111 outputs an imaging ON signal to the code reading unit 5, and the code reading unit 5 starts imaging (step S101).

[0088] Next, the image acquisition unit 111 starts acquiring the image captured by the code reading unit 5 (step S102). The process in step S102 is continuously executed until the customer inputs an instruction to end the reading process. Then, the barcode detection unit 112 starts the process of detecting the barcode BC in the acquired image (step S103).

[0089] Next, the barcode detection unit 112 determines whether it has detected an image of barcode BC within the captured image (step S104). If no image of barcode BC is detected (step S104: No), the process returns to step S104 and continues the barcode detection process. That is, the image acquisition unit 111 continues imaging by the code reading unit 5, and the barcode detection unit 112 performs barcode detection processing on the newly acquired frame image.

[0090] On the other hand, if an image of barcode BC is detected (step S104: Yes), the determination unit 113 reads the product code recorded on barcode BC from the detected image of barcode BC. The determination unit 113 then determines whether the product corresponding to the read product code is a product that requires explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act (step S105).

[0091] For example, the determination unit 113 refers to the product master 141 in the storage unit 14 and determines whether information indicating that an explanation by a pharmacist or registered salesperson is required is associated with the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112.

[0092] If it is determined that the product does not require an explanation from a pharmacist or registered salesperson (Step S105: No), the process proceeds to Step S112 described below. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product does require an explanation from a pharmacist or registered salesperson (Step S105: Yes), the product code is temporarily stored in RAM13, and the process proceeds to the detection of the corresponding flag EF (A).

[0093] Here, Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for detecting the matched flag EF.

[0094] If it is determined in step S105 of Figure 6 that the product requires explanation from a pharmacist or registered salesperson (step S105: Yes), the flag detection unit 114 starts the detection omission prevention timer (step S1051). Next, the flag detection unit 114 determines whether it has detected the corresponding flag EF (step S1052).

[0095] If the "Corrected" flag EF is detected (step S1052: Yes), the process proceeds to step S106 in Figure 6. On the other hand, if the "Corrected" flag EF is not detected (step S1052: No), it is determined whether the detection failure prevention timer has finished (step S1053).

[0096] If the detection failure prevention timer has not finished (step S1053: No), the image acquisition unit 111 acquires a new frame image (step S1054) and returns to the process in step S1052. On the other hand, if the detection failure prevention timer has finished (step S1053: Yes), the process proceeds to step S106 in Figure 6.

[0097] Returning to Figure 6, the explanation continues. After step S1052:Yes or step S1053:Yes in Figure 7, the flag detection unit 114 determines whether the corresponding flag EF has been detected (step S106).

[0098] If the matched flag EF is detected (step S106: Yes), the 2D code detection unit 115 starts the process of detecting the image of the 2D code TC on the image acquired by the image acquisition unit 111 (step S107).

[0099] Next, the 2D code detection unit 115 determines whether it has detected a 2D code TC image within the captured image (step S108). If no 2D code TC image has been detected (step S108: No), the process returns to step S108 and the 2D code detection process continues. That is, the image acquisition unit 111 continues imaging by the code reading unit 5, and the 2D code detection unit 115 performs 2D code detection processing on the newly acquired frame image.

[0100] On the other hand, if an image of a two-dimensional code TC is detected (step S108: Yes), the two-dimensional code detection unit 115 reads the relevant information recorded on the two-dimensional code TC from the detected image of the two-dimensional code TC (step S109).

[0101] Next, the information comparison unit 116 compares the related information read by the 2D code detection unit 115 with the product information of the product corresponding to the product code read by the barcode detection unit 112. For example, the information comparison unit 116 compares the name of the drug included in the related information with the name of the product included in the product information. Also, for example, the information comparison unit 116 compares the number of units sold included in the related information with the number of provisionally registered products included in the product information.

[0102] Then, the registration processing unit 117 determines whether the read related information matches the product information of the product corresponding to the read product code (step S110). If the related information and product information match (step S110: Yes), the registration processing unit 117 determines whether the explained sticker EL attached to the product has been processed (step S111).

[0103] For example, the registration processing unit 117 refers to the processed seal information 142 in the storage unit 14 and determines whether the registration information and accounting information are registered in association with the seal ID included in the related information read in step S109. If the registration processing unit 117 finds that the registration information and accounting information are registered in association with the seal ID, it determines that the explanatory seal EL affixed to the product has been processed.

[0104] If it is determined that the instruction sticker EL attached to the product has not been processed (step S111: No), the registration processing unit 117 executes a registration process to register product information based on the product code read in step S104 (step S112).

[0105] Next, the image acquisition unit 111 determines whether the customer has instructed the system to complete the sales registration process and to finish reading the barcode BC (step S120). If the system has not instructed the system to finish reading the barcode BC (step S120: No), the system returns to step S104.

[0106] If the barcode BC reading process is instructed to end (step S120: Yes), the image acquisition unit 111 outputs an imaging off signal to the code reading unit 5 (step S121), and the accounting processing unit 118 performs accounting processing based on the contents of the registration process performed in step S112 (step S122), and then terminates this process.

[0107] Furthermore, if the related information and product information do not match in step S110 (step S110: No), the registration processing unit 117 will issue a notification according to the content of the mismatched information and proceed to the process in step S113 described below.

[0108] For example, if the name of the drug included in the related information does not match the name of the product included in the product information, the registration processing unit 117 will issue a notification prompting the user to check the contents of the explained sticker EL. Also, for example, if the number of units sold included in the related information does not match the number of units of the provisionally registered product included in the product information, the unit will issue a notification that the registration process will be restricted to prevent registration omissions.

[0109] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S111 that the explanatory sticker EL attached to the product has been processed (step S111: Yes), the registration processing unit 117 notifies that a processed explanatory sticker EL has been attached to the product. Next, the registration processing unit 117 restricts the registration process for the product corresponding to the product code read in step S104 (step S113) and proceeds to the process in step S120 described above.

[0110] On the other hand, if the corrected flag EF was not detected in step S106 (step S106: No), the flag detection unit 114 notifies whether the explained sticker EL is attached to the product (step S114). Next, the flag detection unit 114 receives input from the customer indicating whether or not the explained sticker EL is attached to the product (step S115).

[0111] If the system receives input indicating that the product does not have an explanation sticker EL attached (step S115: No), the flag detection unit 114 notifies the customer to seek an explanation from a pharmacist or registered salesperson (step S119), and then proceeds to the process described in S120 above.

[0112] If input is received indicating that the product has an explanation sticker EL attached (step S115: Yes), the flag detection unit 114 notifies the customer to hold the corresponding flag EF over the reading window 51 (step S116), and proceeds to the process of detecting additional corresponding flags EF (B).

[0113] Here, Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the process for detecting additional matched flags EF.

[0114] After step S115 in Figure 6, the flag detection unit 114 starts the shadow-waiting timer (step S1161). Next, the flag detection unit 114 determines whether it has detected the corresponding flag EF (step S1162). If the corresponding flag EF has not been detected (step S1162: No), the image acquisition unit 111 determines whether the shadow-waiting timer has finished (step S1163).

[0115] If the shadow-holding timer has not finished (step S1163: No), the image acquisition unit 111 acquires a new frame image (step S1164) and returns to the process in step S1162. On the other hand, if the shadow-holding timer has finished, the process proceeds to step S117 in Figure 6.

[0116] On the other hand, if a matched flag EF is detected (step S1162: Yes), the flag detection unit 114 proceeds to the process in step S117 of Figure 6.

[0117] Returning to Figure 6, the explanation continues. After step S1162:Yes or S1163:Yes in Figure 8, the flag detection unit 114 determines whether the corresponding flag EF has been detected (step S117). If the corresponding flag EF has been detected (step S117:Yes), the process proceeds to step S107 described above.

[0118] On the other hand, if the corrected flag EF is not detected (step S117: No), the flag detection unit 114 notifies the customer that the corrected flag EF was not found (step S118) and proceeds to the process of step S120 described above. Alternatively, after step S118, the process may proceed to the process of step S119 described above.

[0119] As described above, the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment reads a product code and, based on a product master 141 that stores the product code in association with information indicating that the product code is a restricted product for which a prescribed action under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act is required when selling, determines whether the product identified by the product code is a restricted product. If it is determined that the product is a restricted product, it detects that an explained sticker EL containing an explained flag EF indicating that a prescribed action has been taken for the customer has been affixed to the product. If the product is a restricted product and an explained sticker EL is not detected, it restricts the product registration process for that product.

[0120] As a result, the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment can determine from the product code and product master 141 whether the product that is specially treated by the product code is a restricted product. Furthermore, if the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment determines that the product that is specially treated by the product code is a restricted product, it searches for the explained flag EF. If the product corresponding to the read product code is not a restricted product, the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment does not perform the process of searching for the explained flag EF. In addition, if the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment finds the addressed flag EF as a result of the search, it can recognize that the prescribed measures for sales under the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act have been taken without the need for a store employee. In other words, the self-service POS terminal 1 according to this embodiment makes it possible to efficiently determine whether the necessary measures stipulated by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act have been taken for the customer.

[0121] The above-described embodiment can also be modified and implemented as appropriate by changing the configuration or some of the functions of the self-service POS terminal 1. Therefore, the following describes modified examples 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 examples described below may be implemented individually or in combination as appropriate.

[0122] (modified version) In the above-described embodiment, a form in which the described seal EL includes a two-dimensional code TC and an explanation field IC was described. In this modified example, a form in which the explanation seal EL consists only of the corresponding flag EF will be described.

[0123] In this modified version, the control unit 100 of the self-POS terminal 1 does not have a 2D code detection unit 115 and an information comparison unit 116. In this modified version, the control unit 100 of the self-POS terminal 1 proceeds to the processing of step S112 after step S106:Yes in Figure 6.

[0124] According to this modified example, processing such as reading the 2D code TC and comparing information can be omitted, thereby reducing the processing load on the control unit 100 of the self-service POS terminal 1.

[0125] As explained above, according to each of the embodiments described above, it is possible to efficiently determine whether the necessary measures stipulated by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act have been taken for the customer.

[0126] 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. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0127] 1 Self-service POS terminal 2. First cabinet 3. Second cabinet 4. Deposit and Withdrawal Department 5. Code reading unit 6. Card reader 7 Printing section 8 Display operation section 10 Basket stand 11 CPU 12 ROM 13 RAM 14 Storage section 15 Communications Department 51 Reading window 61 Card slots 71 Receipt issuing slot 81 Display section 82 Operation section 100 Control Unit 111 Image acquisition unit 112 Barcode detection unit 113 Judgment section 114 Flag detection unit 115 2D code detection unit 116 Information Comparison Department 117 Registration Processing Unit 118 Accounting Processing Department 141 Product Master 142 Processed Seal Information [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0128] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-199669

Claims

1. A first acquisition means for obtaining product information that can identify the product from an image of the product, A determination means determines whether a product identified by the product information acquired by the first acquisition means is a restricted product, based on correspondence information which associates product information of each product sold in the store with information indicating that a product is a restricted product for which a prescribed action is required when selling that product. If the aforementioned product is determined to be the aforementioned restricted product, a detection means for detecting a "complied" sticker indicating that a predetermined action has been taken from an image of the said product, A restricting means that restricts the processing related to the sale of the said product when the said product is the said restricted product and the said corrected seal is not detected, A product sales data processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned "Compliant" sticker includes a "Compliant" flag indicating that the "Compliant" sticker has been affixed to the product. The detection means detects the corresponding flag from the captured image captured by the imaging unit that images the product, and then detects that the corresponding sticker is affixed to the product. Product sales data processing device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned compliance sticker includes a two-dimensional code that holds relevant information related to the sale of the restricted goods, The system further comprises a second acquisition means for acquiring the related information from the two-dimensional code. Product sales data processing device according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned product information includes the product name representing the name of each product, The aforementioned related information includes the product name of the restricted product, The second acquisition means acquires the relevant information, including the product name of the restricted product, If the product name of the restricted product obtained by the second acquisition means does not match the product name included in the product information obtained by the first acquisition means, the restricting means will suspend the processing related to the sale of the product and notify the customer accordingly. Product sales data processing device according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned related information includes the sales quantity, which represents the number of items corresponding to the product name of the restricted item to be sold to the customer. The restriction means suspends the sale of the product until the number of units sold corresponding to the product name of the restricted product acquired by the second acquisition means matches the number of product information items containing the same product name as the restricted product acquired by the first acquisition means, and notifies the customer of this fact. Product sales data processing device according to claim 4.

6. The restriction means, if the product is determined to be the restricted product and the corresponding sticker is not detected after a predetermined time has elapsed, will notify that the product requires explanation from a pharmacist or registered salesperson for purchase. Product sales data processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The computer for the product sales data processing device A first acquisition means for obtaining product information that can identify the product from an image of the product, A determination means determines whether a product identified by the product information acquired by the first acquisition means is a restricted product, based on correspondence information which associates product information of each product sold in the store with information indicating that a product is a restricted product for which a prescribed action is required when selling that product. If the aforementioned product is determined to be the aforementioned restricted product, a detection means for detecting a "complied" sticker indicating that a predetermined action has been taken from an image of the said product, A restricting means that restricts the processing related to the sale of the product when the product is a restricted product and the corresponding seal is not detected, A program that makes it function as such.

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