Information processing server, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing server that restricts the issuance of service sheets. [Solution] The information processing server according to the embodiment includes an acquisition unit, a selection unit, an update unit, and an output unit. The acquisition unit acquires member identification information. The selection unit selects either an issuance instruction or a non-issuance instruction for a service sheet based on the issuance history information of one or more service sheets included in the service management information corresponding to the identification information. The update unit updates the issuance history information based on the issuance instruction. The output unit outputs issuance information for issuing the service sheet based on the issuance instruction.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] At the time of transaction settlement in a store selling products or the like, a settlement device issues a paper receipt. Also, for the purpose of promoting sales, a store clerk may hand a stamp card or discount coupon or the like to a customer at the time of transaction settlement. In order to reduce such a store clerk's workload, the settlement device can issue a receipt and various service sheets that replace a stamp card or discount coupon or the like.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A settlement device issues a service sheet according to initial settings. The issuance of the service sheet is for the purpose of promoting sales, and there is a desire to restrict the issuance of a service sheet that is contrary to the purpose from the viewpoint of preventing unauthorized use or the like.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an information processing server, an information processing method, and a program for restricting the issuance of a service sheet.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing server according to the embodiment includes an acquisition unit, a selection unit, an update unit, and an output unit. The acquisition unit acquires member identification information. The selection unit selects either an issuance instruction or a non-issuance instruction for a service sheet based on the issuance history information of one or more service sheets included in the service management information corresponding to the identification information. The update unit updates the issuance history information based on the issuance instruction. The output unit outputs issuance information for issuing the service sheet based on the issuance instruction. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the checkout system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a registration machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an accounting machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a server configuration according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the functional blocks of the server processor according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of member information according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of service management information according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of multiple types of service sheets according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the display of the menu screen for setting the issuance conditions according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of service sheet issuance control according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of service sheet issuance control according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] One embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. This embodiment describes a case in which the service sheet issuance control described below is applied to a semi-self-service checkout system (operated by both staff and customers) in which the registration machine and the accounting machine are separated. Note that the service sheet issuance control described below can be applied not only to semi-self-service checkout systems, but also to staff-only systems (operated by staff), fully self-service systems (operated by customers), and mobile terminal systems (where part of the operating terminal is a mobile terminal). The service sheet serves as a substitute for a stamp card or discount coupon, and is printed by a printer that outputs accounting sheets called receipts.

[0009] [Explanation of the checkout system] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a checkout system according to an embodiment. The checkout system 10 includes a registration machine 11, an accounting machine 12, a server 13 (information processing server), and a network 14 connecting them. The type of network 14 is not particularly limited, but generally a wired or wireless LAN (local area network) is used.

[0010] The registration machine 11 is operated by a store employee 21 who is in the role of a checker. The accounting machine 12 is operated by a customer 22 who has purchased goods at the store. A customer 22 who operates the accounting machine 12 to settle a sales transaction can be called a settler. Note that sales transactions are not limited to payment for purchased goods. For example, payment for services is also a form of sales transaction.

[0011] In Figure 1, the registration machine 11 is attached to the work table 23. The work table 23 has a rectangular tabletop. Multiple work tables 23 are arranged so that the longitudinal directions of their tabletops are approximately parallel, forming a passage for customers 22, a so-called checkout lane.

[0012] The registration machine 11 and the accounting machine 12 are arranged for each checkout lane. For one checkout lane, one registration machine 11 is arranged, and multiple accounting machines 12 are arranged. Then, various data signals are exchanged between the registration machine 11 and the accounting machines 12 arranged in the same checkout lane through the network 14. The data signals are exchanged via the server 13. Incidentally, in FIG. 1, an example is shown in which one registration machine 11 and two accounting machines 12 are arranged for two checkout lanes. Three or more accounting machines 12 may be arranged for one registration machine 11.

[0013] The server 13 stores merchandise management information and service management information, and performs accounting processing and service sheet issuance control based on the merchandise information registered by each registration machine 11.

[0014] [Explanation of the Configuration of the Registration Machine] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the registration machine according to the embodiment. The registration machine 11 includes a processor 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage device 33, a clock 34, a communication unit 35, a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, a touch panel 38, a customer display 39, and a system transmission path 42, etc. The system transmission path 42 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 42 connects the processor 31 and other units directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0015] The processor 31 corresponds to the central part of the above computer. The processor 31 controls each unit in order to realize various functions as the registration machine 11 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0016] The processor 31 executes a registration process according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 31 executes the merchandise registration mode based on the reception of the merchandise registration mode, and receives the merchandise code output from the scanner 37.

[0017] Main memory 32 corresponds to the main storage part of the above computer. The main memory 32 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, the main memory 32 stores an operating system or an application program. The main memory 32 may store data necessary for the processor 31 to execute processes for controlling each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 32 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be appropriately rewritten by the processor 31. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0018] Auxiliary storage device 33 corresponds to the auxiliary storage part of the above computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) etc. can be the auxiliary storage device 33. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores data used by the processor 31 to perform various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 31, etc. The auxiliary storage device 33 may also store the above application program.

[0019] Clock 34 measures the date and time. The processor 31 processes the date and time measured by the clock 34 as the current date and time.

[0020] Communication unit 35 performs data communication with the server 13 and the accounting machine 12 connected via the network 14. <0,

[0021] Keyboard 36 is an input device having various keys necessary for inputting data related to products purchased by customers, etc.

[0022] The scanner 37 is an input device for reading product codes, such as one-dimensional or two-dimensional codes. The scanner 37 may be a type that reads product codes by scanning with a laser beam, or a type that reads product codes from images captured by an imaging device. For example, the scanner 37 reads product codes from products purchased by customers.

[0023] The touch panel 38 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 38 displays information to the store clerk 21, who is the operator of the registration machine 11, and accepts operation input from the store clerk 21.

[0024] The customer display 39 displays information to customers 22 whose purchase data has been registered in the registration machine 11.

[0025] For the hardware of such a registration device 11, an existing POS terminal can be used, for example. Note that the devices connected to the registration device 11 are not limited to the keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, printer 40, and reader 41 shown in Figure 2. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the registration device 11.

[0026] [Explanation of the accounting machine's configuration] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an accounting machine according to an embodiment. The accounting machine 12 includes a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication unit 65, change dispenser interface 66, scanner 67, touch panel 68, printer 69, reader / writer 70, and system transmission line 71, etc. The system transmission line 71 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission line 71 connects the processor 61 and the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0027] The processor 61 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 61 controls each part in order to realize various functions as an accounting machine 12 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU.

[0028] Main memory 62 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 62 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 62 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 62 may also store data necessary for the processor 61 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 61. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0029] The auxiliary storage device 63 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 63. The auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by the processor 61 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 61, etc. The auxiliary storage device 63 may also store the application program described above.

[0030] Clock 64 measures the date and time. Processor 61 processes the date and time measured by clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0031] The communication unit 65 performs data communication with the server 13 or registration device 11 connected via the network 14.

[0032] The change dispenser interface 66 constitutes an interface with the automatic change dispenser. The change dispenser interface 66 receives monetary data of the money inserted into the automatic change dispenser from the automatic change dispenser. The change dispenser interface 66 outputs change data from the accounting machine 12 to the automatic change dispenser. The automatic change dispenser, having received the change data, automatically dispenses the amount of money corresponding to that change data as change.

[0033] The scanner 67 is an input device for reading various codes, such as one-dimensional codes or two-dimensional codes. The scanner 67 may be of a type that reads various codes by scanning with a laser beam, or it may be of a type that reads various codes from images captured by an imaging device.

[0034] The touch panel 68 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 68 displays information to the customer 22, who is the operator of the accounting machine 12, and accepts operation input from the customer 22.

[0035] The printer 69 pulls a sheet from a sheet roll, prints various texts or images on the pulled sheet, and cuts the pulled sheet at a predetermined position. By printing on the sheet and cutting the sheet, the printer 69 issues a receipt recording accounting information related to accounting for a series of transactions. Alternatively, by printing on the sheet and cutting the sheet, the printer 69 issues a service sheet recording service information. Examples of this type of printer 69 include thermal printers and dot matrix printers.

[0036] The reader / writer 70 has the function of reading data recorded on a medium such as a card or smartphone, and the function of writing data to the aforementioned medium. The card is a payment card or a membership card. The payment card is a credit card, debit card, electronic money card, or prepaid card. The reader / writer 70 may be a magnetic, contact, or contactless device, or may include multiple types of devices.

[0037] For the hardware of such an accounting machine 12, for example, a POS terminal from an existing fully self-service checkout system, a so-called self-service POS terminal, can be used. Note that the devices connected to the accounting machine 12 are not limited to the scanner 67, touch panel 68, printer 69, and reader / writer 70 shown in Figure 3. Additional devices may be added or some devices omitted depending on the application of the accounting machine 12.

[0038] [Server Configuration Description] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server according to an embodiment. The server 13 includes a processor 81, main memory 82, auxiliary storage device 83, clock 84, communication unit 85, touch panel 86, and system transmission path 87, etc. The system transmission path 87 includes an address bus, data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 87 connects the processor 81 to the other parts directly or via signal input / output circuits and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0039] The processor 81 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 81 controls various parts in order to realize various functions as a server 13 according to the operating system or application program. The processor 81 is, for example, a CPU.

[0040] Main memory 82 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 82 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 82 stores the operating system or application programs. Main memory 82 may also store data necessary for the processor 81 to perform processing to control each part in the non-volatile or volatile memory area. Main memory 82 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processor 81. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0041] The auxiliary storage device 83 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD could be the auxiliary storage device 83. The auxiliary storage device 83 stores data used by the processor 81 in performing various processes, data created by the processing performed by the processor 81, etc. The auxiliary storage device 83 may also store the application program described above.

[0042] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device 83 stores product management information and service management information. Product management information includes product records corresponding to each product. For example, a product record includes a product code, product manufacturer, product category, product name, and price. Service management information is associated with member identification information (member code). The service management information for each member code includes service records corresponding to various services. The service records include service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information.

[0043] For example, the service sheet issuance conditions include the first and second issuance conditions. The first issuance conditions are specified based on the threshold for the total amount of a series of transactions, the product code of the target product, the threshold for the number of products, and customer attribute information. Customer attribute information includes age group, gender, residential area, and store used.

[0044] For example, if a predetermined amount is specified as the threshold for the total amount of a series of transactions, the first issuance condition is met when the total amount of a series of transactions exceeds the predetermined amount. Also, if a predetermined code is specified as the product code of the target product, the first issuance condition is met when a series of transactions includes a product with the predetermined code. Also, if a predetermined value is specified as the threshold for the number of items, the first issuance condition is met when a series of transactions exceeds the predetermined number of items purchased. Also, if a predetermined age group is specified as customer attribute information, the first issuance condition is met when it is detected from the member information that the customer belongs to the predetermined age group. Also, if a predetermined gender is specified as customer attribute information, the first issuance condition is met when it is detected from the member information that the customer belongs to the predetermined gender. Also, if a predetermined region is specified as customer attribute information, the first issuance condition is met when it is detected that the address in the member information belongs to the predetermined region. Also, if a predetermined store is specified as customer attribute information, the first issuance condition is met when it is detected that the store used in the member information belongs to the predetermined store.

[0045] The second issuance condition is the maximum number of times a service sheet of a specified type can be issued.

[0046] The service sheet issuance control of this embodiment is applicable to the issuance control of one or more types of service sheets. In addition to the member code, the service management information may also be associated with payment identification information such as a credit card. If the service management information is associated with the member code, services are managed for each member (the issuance of service sheets is restricted for each member), and if the service management information is associated with payment information, services are managed for each payment (the issuance of service sheets is restricted for each payment).

[0047] Clock 84 measures the date and time. Processor 81 processes the date and time measured by clock 84 as the current date and time.

[0048] The communication unit 85 performs data communication with the registration machine 11 or accounting machine 12 connected via the network 14.

[0049] The touch panel 86 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 86 displays information to the administrator, who is the operator of the server 13, and accepts operation input from the administrator.

[0050] [Explanation of Service Sheet Issuance Control] The following describes an example of service sheet issuance control by server 13. Figure 5 shows an example of the functional blocks of the server processor according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the processor 81 includes an accounting unit 811, an acquisition unit 812, a selection unit 813, an update unit 815, and an output unit 815.

[0051] In a series of transactions, the registration device 11 receives the member code and product code read by the scanner 37 and transmits the received member code and product code via the communication unit 35. In addition, in a series of transactions, the registration device 11 receives confirmation that the input for the series of transactions is complete and transmits the confirmation of input completion via the communication unit 35.

[0052] Server 13 receives, via communication unit 85, the member code, one or more product codes, and input completion information received in a series of transactions from registration device 11.

[0053] The accounting unit 811 detects the product manufacturer, product category, product name, and price corresponding to each product code based on the product management information stored in the auxiliary storage device 83, and further detects the total amount of a series of transactions, and generates accounting information including this detected information.

[0054] The acquisition unit 812 acquires the member code and accounting information related to accounting in a series of transactions.

[0055] The selection unit 813 selects either an instruction to issue a service sheet or an instruction not to issue a service sheet, based on the issuance history information of one or more service sheets included in the service management information of the acquired member code. For example, the selection unit 813 selects an issuance instruction if the first and second issuance conditions included in the service management information are met. In addition, the selection unit 813 selects an instruction to issue an accounting sheet in order to issue an accounting sheet, and then selects either an instruction to issue a service sheet or an instruction not to issue a service sheet, making the issuance of the accounting sheet mandatory and the issuance of the service sheet optional.

[0056] The output unit 815 outputs issuance information for issuing a service sheet based on the instruction to issue a service sheet. For example, the output unit 815 outputs an instruction to issue an accounting sheet, and then outputs issuance information for issuing a service sheet.

[0057] The communication unit 85 transmits the issuance information to the accounting machine 12. The accounting machine 12 receives the issuance information and issues an accounting sheet and a service sheet based on the received issuance information.

[0058] Figure 6 shows an example of member information according to the embodiment. The auxiliary storage device 83 of server 13 stores member information. The member information includes multiple member records. Each member record includes the member code, the member's name, date of birth, address, etc. Furthermore, the member information may also include gender (male or female), postal code, and store usage information. The store usage information is identification information that identifies the store that the member frequently uses, as specified by the member.

[0059] Figure 7 shows an example of service management information according to the embodiment. The auxiliary storage device 83 of server 13 stores service management information. The service management information includes multiple service records, each service record associated with a member code. The service record corresponding to a member code includes service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information.

[0060] For example, the service issuance conditions include a first and second issuance condition. For example, the first issuance condition includes a threshold for the total amount of a series of transactions. The second issuance condition includes an upper limit on the number of times a service sheet can be issued. The issuance history information includes the number of times each type of service sheet has been issued.

[0061] Figure 8 shows an example of multiple types of service sheets according to the embodiment. Figure 8 shows an example of four types of service sheets. For example, the four types of service sheets correspond to stamp cards, and the number of stamps increases in the order of the first service sheet 201, the second service sheet 202, the third service sheet 203, and the fourth service sheet 204.

[0062] For example, in the initial state, the issuance history information includes the issuance count of the first service sheet 201 (0), the issuance count of the second service sheet 202 (0), the issuance count of the third service sheet 203 (0), and the issuance count of the fourth service sheet 203 (0).

[0063] The selection unit 813 determines, based on the service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information, that the first and second issuance conditions are met if the total amount of the N1th (N1: an integer greater than or equal to 1) series of transactions based on a predetermined member code exceeds the threshold for total amount, and the number of issuances of the first service sheet 201 is less than the upper limit. The selection unit 813 selects the instruction to issue the first service sheet 201. The update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of the service management information associated with the predetermined member code and updates the issuance count of the first service sheet 201 from 0 to 1. The output unit 815 outputs the instruction to issue the first service sheet 201. The accounting machine 12 issues the first service sheet 201 based on the instruction to issue the first service sheet 201.

[0064] Based on the service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information, if the total amount of the N2th (N1 < N2, N2: an integer of 1 or more) series of transactions based on a predetermined member code exceeds the threshold of the total amount and the number of issuances of the second service sheet 202 is less than the upper limit value, the selection unit 813 determines that the first and second issuance conditions are satisfied. The selection unit 813 selects an issuance instruction for the second service sheet 202. The update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of the service management information associated with the predetermined member code, and updates the issuance count 0 of the second service sheet 202 to issuance count 1. The output unit 815 outputs an issuance instruction for the second service sheet 202. The accounting machine 12 issues the second service sheet 202 based on the issuance instruction for the second service sheet 202.

[0065] Based on the service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information, if the total amount of the N3th (N2 < N3, N3: an integer of 1 or more) series of transactions based on a predetermined member code exceeds the threshold of the total amount and the number of issuances of the second service sheet 203 is less than the upper limit value, the selection unit 813 determines that the first and second issuance conditions are satisfied. The selection unit 813 selects an issuance instruction for the third service sheet 203. The update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of the service management information associated with the predetermined member code, and updates the issuance count 0 of the third service sheet 203 to issuance count 1. The output unit 815 outputs an issuance instruction for the third service sheet 203. The accounting machine 12 issues the third service sheet 203 based on the issuance instruction for the third service sheet 203.

[0066] Based on the service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information, if the total amount of the N4th (N3 < N4, N4: an integer of 1 or more) series of transactions based on a predetermined membership code exceeds the threshold of the total amount and the number of issuances of the third service sheet 204 is less than the upper limit value, the selection unit 813 determines that the first and second issuance conditions are satisfied. The selection unit 813 selects an issuance instruction for the fourth service sheet 204. The update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of the service management information associated with the predetermined membership code, and updates the issuance count 0 of the fourth service sheet 204 to issuance count 1. The output unit 815 outputs an issuance instruction for the fourth service sheet 204. The accounting machine 12 issues the fourth service sheet 204 based on the issuance instruction for the fourth service sheet 204.

[0067] Also, the selection unit 813 may select an issuance instruction for the privilege sheet 205 together with the selection of the issuance instruction for the fourth service sheet 204. The output unit 814 outputs an issuance instruction for the privilege sheet 205. The accounting machine 12 issues the first privilege sheet 205 based on the issuance instruction for the privilege sheet 205. Thus, taking a plurality of types of service sheets as a set, a privilege sheet 205 is issued in response to the issuance of a set of sheets.

[0068] Furthermore, based on the service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information, if the total amount of the N5th (N4 < N5, N5: an integer of 1 or more) series of transactions based on a predetermined membership code exceeds the threshold of the total amount and the number of issuances of the first service sheet 201 is less than the upper limit value, the selection unit 813 determines that the first and second issuance conditions are satisfied. The selection unit 813 selects an issuance instruction for the first service sheet 201. The update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of the service management information associated with the predetermined membership code, and updates the issuance count 1 of the first service sheet 201 to issuance count 2. The output unit 815 outputs an issuance instruction for the first service sheet 201. The accounting machine 12 issues the first service sheet 201 based on the issuance instruction for the first service sheet 201. The update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of the service management information associated with the predetermined membership code, and updates the issuance count 1 of the first service sheet 201 to issuance count 2.

[0069] Similarly, a second service sheet 202, a third service sheet 203, and a fourth service sheet 204 are issued, and then a second benefits sheet 205 is issued.

[0070] If the maximum number of times the first service sheet 201, second service sheet 202, third service sheet 203, and fourth service sheet 204 can be issued is "2", then this limit restricts the issuance of any further service sheets, and the third benefit sheet 205 will not be issued.

[0071] Furthermore, four service sheets constitute one set, and the second issuance condition may include an upper limit on the number of sets. Also, one set is called one loop, and the second issuance condition may include an upper limit on the number of loops.

[0072] Figure 9 shows an example of the display of the menu screen for setting the issuance conditions according to the embodiment. The touch panel 86 displays menu screen M. Menu screen M includes items 300 for specifying various services or plans. Menu screen M also includes items 301 for specifying a first issuance condition and items 302 for specifying a second issuance condition. For example, the first issuance condition may be a threshold for the total amount. The second issuance condition may be the upper limit for the number of times a service sheet of each type can be issued, or the upper limit for the number of sets or loops where all types constitute one set.

[0073] Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of service sheet issuance control according to the embodiment. The registration machine 11, accounting machine 12, and server 13 execute the service sheet issuance control shown in Figure 10.

[0074] The registration device 11 performs the process of reading the member code and the product codes for a series of transactions (ACT 101). For example, the scanner 37 reads the member code from the member card, etc., and reads the product code assigned to the product (ACT 101), and the communication unit 35 transmits the member code and product code to the server 13 (ACT 102). The registration device 11 repeats the reading and transmission of product codes in a series of transactions. Alternatively, the registration device 11 may read the member code and multiple product codes in a series of transactions and transmit these member codes and multiple product codes to the server 13 all at once.

[0075] The registration device 11 executes the input completion process for a series of transactions (ACT 103). For example, the touch panel 38 receives the input from the store clerk that product registration is complete, and the communication unit 35 sends the input that product registration is complete to the server 13 (ACT 104).

[0076] Server 13 receives information from registration device 11 (ACT201) and executes each process (ACT202~ACT207).

[0077] The communication unit 85 receives the member code, product code, and input completion notification transmitted from the registration device 11 in response to a series of transactions (ACT201).

[0078] The accounting unit 811 detects the product name, product category, and price corresponding to each product code based on the product management information, and further detects the total amount of a series of transactions, and generates accounting information including this detected information (ACT202). The communication unit 85 transmits the generated accounting information to the accounting machine 12 (ACT203).

[0079] The acquisition unit 812 acquires the member code and accounting information related to accounting in a series of transactions (ACT204).

[0080] The selection unit 813 selects either an instruction to issue a service sheet or an instruction not to issue a service sheet based on the member code, accounting information, and service management information (ACT205).

[0081] If the instruction to issue a service sheet is selected, the update unit 814 updates the issuance history information based on the issuance instruction (ACT206).

[0082] The output unit 815 outputs issuance information (ACT207) for issuing a service sheet based on the issuance instruction. The communication unit 85 transmits the issuance information to the accounting machine 12.

[0083] The accounting machine 12 receives accounting information from the server 13 and performs settlement processing based on the accounting information (ACT301). The touch panel 68 accepts input related to settlement processing, and the processor 61 performs settlement processing. The communication unit 65 sends a settlement completion message to the server 13 (ACT302).

[0084] Furthermore, the accounting machine 12 receives issuance information from the server 13 and executes the issuance process based on the issuance information (ACT303). The printer 69 issues the accounting sheet and the service sheet based on the received issuance information.

[0085] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of service sheet issuance control according to the embodiment. Server 13 executes the service sheet issuance control shown in Figure 11.

[0086] The communication unit 85 receives the member code, product code, and input completion notification transmitted from the registration device 11 in response to a series of transactions (ACT211, ACT212).

[0087] The accounting unit 811 detects the product name, product category, and price corresponding to each product code based on the product management information, and further detects the total amount of a series of transactions, and generates accounting information including this detected information (ACT213). The communication unit 85 transmits the generated accounting information to the accounting machine 12.

[0088] The acquisition unit 812 acquires the member code and accounting information related to accounting in a series of transactions (ACT214).

[0089] The selection unit 813 selects either an instruction to issue a service sheet or an instruction not to issue a service sheet based on the member code, accounting information, and service management information (ACT215). For example, based on the service sheet issuance conditions and issuance history information included in the service management information, the selection unit 813 determines that the first and second issuance conditions are met if the total amount of the N1th (N1: an integer greater than or equal to 1) series of transactions based on a predetermined member code exceeds the threshold for the total amount, and the number of times the first service sheet 201 has been issued is less than the upper limit. The selection unit 813 selects an instruction to issue the first service sheet 201.

[0090] The update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of service management information associated with the member code (ACT216). For example, the update unit 814 updates the issuance history information of service management information associated with a given member code and updates the issuance count M (M: an integer greater than or equal to 0) of the first service sheet 201 to the issuance count M+1.

[0091] The output unit 815 outputs an instruction to issue the first service sheet 201 (ACT217). The communication unit 85 sends the issuance instruction to the accounting machine 12. The accounting machine 12 receives the issuance information from the server 13 and performs the issuance process based on the issuance information. The printer 69 issues the accounting sheet and the service sheet based on the received issuance information.

[0092] Similarly, if the selection unit 813 determines that the first and second issuance conditions are met in the N2nd, N3rd, and N4th transactions based on a predetermined member code, it outputs instructions to issue the second service sheet 202, the third service sheet 203, and the fourth service sheet 204. Accordingly, the printer 69 of the accounting machine 12 issues the second service sheet 202, the third service sheet 203, and the fourth service sheet 204, and in conjunction with the issuance of one set of service sheets, it issues the first benefit sheet 205.

[0093] Similarly, if the selection unit 813 determines that the first and second issuance conditions are met in the N5th, N6th, N7th, and N8th transactions based on a predetermined member code, it outputs instructions to issue the first service sheet 201, the second service sheet 202, the third service sheet 203, and the fourth service sheet 204. Accordingly, the printer 69 of the accounting machine 12 issues the first service sheet 201, the second service sheet 202, the third service sheet 203, and the fourth service sheet 204, and in response to the issuance of one set of service sheets, it issues the second benefits sheet 205.

[0094] If the maximum number of times the first service sheet 201, the second service sheet 202, the third service sheet 203, and the fourth service sheet 204 can be issued is "2", or if the maximum number of sets or loops is "2", no further service sheets or benefit sheets will be issued.

[0095] The following summarizes the receipt issuance control system. (1) Server 13 acquires the member's identification information and selects either an instruction to issue a service sheet or an instruction not to issue a service sheet based on the issuance history information of one or more service sheets included in the service management information corresponding to the identification information. Server 13 also updates the issuance history information based on the issuance instruction and outputs issuance information for issuing the service sheet based on the issuance instruction. According to Server 13, it is possible to control the issuance of service sheets based on the service management information associated with the member's identification information.

[0096] (2) Service management information includes the upper limit on the number of service sheets that can be issued, and issuance history information includes the number of service sheets that have been issued. Server 13 determines that the issuance conditions are met when the number of issuances is less than the upper limit and selects an issuance instruction. According to Server 13, it is possible to control the issuance of service sheets based on the number of service sheets that have been issued associated with the member's identification information. If the number of issuances exceeds the upper limit, a service sheet can not be issued. This makes it possible to limit the number of service sheets that can be issued according to the purpose of the service or project. This contributes to preventing the fraudulent issuance of service sheets and ensures fairness for members.

[0097] (3) The server 13 selects a predetermined issuance instruction for a predetermined type of service sheet from among several types of service sheets based on the service management information associated with the member code. According to the server 13, it is possible to control the issuance of multiple types of service sheets based on the service management information associated with the member's identification information. For example, as shown in Figure 9, when the first service sheet 201, the second service sheet 202, the third service sheet 203, and the fourth service sheet 204 are issued in that order, the issuance history of each sheet is managed, and the issuance of each sheet is restricted based on the issuance history of each sheet.

[0098] The program according to this embodiment may be transferred while stored in electronic devices such as the registration machine 11, accounting machine 12, and server 13, or it may be transferred without being stored in electronic devices. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while stored in a storage medium. The storage medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The storage medium is a computer-readable medium. The storage medium can be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as an optical disc or memory card, and its form is not limited. The electronic device downloads the program transferred (provided) via the network and installs it into memory, or reads the program from the storage medium and installs it into memory.

[0099] 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]

[0100] 10…Checkout System 11...Registration machine 12… Accounting machine 13… Server 14…Network 23…Work Table 31… Processor 32... Main memory 33…Auxiliary storage devices 34... Clock 35…Communication unit 36... Keyboard 37… Scanner 38…Touch panel 39...Customer display 40…Printer 41... Leader 42... System transmission line 61… Processor 62... Main memory 63... Auxiliary storage devices 64... Clock 65…Communication unit 66... ​​Change machine interface 67... Scanner 68... Touch panel 69... Printer 70… Leader / Writer 71... System transmission path 81… Processor 82... Main memory 83... Auxiliary storage devices 84... Clock 85...Communication unit 86... System transmission path 811... Accounting Department 812…Acquisition department 813...Selection section 814...Update section 815...Output section

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires member identification information, A selection unit that selects either an instruction to issue or not issue a service sheet based on the issuance history information of one or more service sheets included in the service management information corresponding to the identification information, An update unit that updates the issuance history information based on the issuance instruction, An output unit that outputs issuance information for issuing the service sheet based on the issuance instruction, An information processing server equipped with the following features.

2. The service management information includes the upper limit on the number of times the service sheet has been issued. The aforementioned issuance history information includes the number of times the service sheet has been issued, The selection unit selects the issuance instruction when the number of issuances is less than the upper limit. The information processing server according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned issuance history information is the issuance history of multiple types of service sheets. The selection unit selects a predetermined issuance instruction for a predetermined type of service sheet from the multiple types of service sheets based on the issuance history information. The information processing server according to claim 1.

4. The service management information includes the upper limit on the number of times the multiple types of service sheets are issued. The aforementioned issuance history information includes the number of times the multiple types of service sheets have been issued, The selection unit selects the predetermined issuance instruction when the number of times the predetermined type of service sheet is issued is less than the upper limit. The information processing server according to claim 3.

5. We obtain the member's identification information, Based on the issuance history information of one or more service sheets included in the service management information corresponding to the aforementioned identification information, either an issuance instruction or a non-issuance instruction for the service sheet is selected. Based on the aforementioned issuance instruction, update the issuance history information. Based on the aforementioned issuance instruction, the system outputs issuance information for issuing the service sheet. Information processing server.

6. On the computer, Obtaining member identification information, Based on the issuance history information of one or more service sheets included in the service management information corresponding to the aforementioned identification information, either an instruction to issue or an instruction not to issue the service sheet is selected. The issuance history information is updated based on the issuance instruction, To output issuance information for issuing the service sheet based on the issuance instruction, A program to be executed.

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