Information processing device and program

Abstract

To improve the visibility of displays for monitoring multiple trading devices. [Solution] The information processing device is used to monitor multiple transaction processing devices that allow customers to perform accounting operations. The information processing device comprises a setting means and a display processing means. The setting means sets assignment information regarding group assignments for each of the multiple transaction processing devices, one or more of them, based on user operations. The display processing means processes information regarding transaction processing devices for each group based on the assignment information so as to display it on the display unit.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Full self-checkouts that enable customers to perform product registration operations and accounting operations have become widespread. A store attendant uses an attendant terminal to monitor multiple self-checkouts installed in the store. The attendant terminal can display in real time information about the self-checkouts, such as the status of the full self-checkout and the status of the change dispenser.

[0003] Regarding the display of the attendant terminal, from the perspective of comprehensibility, it is desired to display information about a large number of self-checkouts on one screen.

[0004] However, as the number of self-checkouts displayed on one screen increases, the visibility of the display may decrease, and the efficiency of monitoring may also decrease.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technique for improving the visibility of a display for monitoring a plurality of transaction processing apparatuses.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In one embodiment, the information processing device is used to monitor a plurality of transaction processing devices that allow customers to perform accounting operations. The information processing device comprises a setting means and a display processing means. The setting means sets assignment information regarding group assignments for each of the plurality of transaction processing devices, one or more of which are operated by a user. The display processing means processes information regarding the transaction processing device for each group based on the assignment information so as to display it on a display unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an attendant terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of a group setting table according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of an assignment setting table according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the display of the assignment settings screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the group settings screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the display of the list screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the group information setting process by the processing circuit of the attendant terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the setting process of assignment information by the processing circuit of the attendant terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the display process of the list screen by the processing circuit of the attendant terminal according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Several embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of the parts in the drawings used in the following description of embodiments may have been changed as appropriate. Also, for illustrative purposes, some components may be omitted from the drawings used in the following description of embodiments.

[0010] <Embodiment> (Example configuration) Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system S. Information processing system S is a system that communicates between multiple devices and processes information about transactions at a store. For example, the store is a mass retailer such as a supermarket, but is not limited to this. A transaction is the transfer of fees from the customer to the store in connection with the sale of goods by the store. From the store's perspective, a transaction includes the meaning of selling goods. From the customer's perspective, a transaction includes the meaning of purchasing goods. Goods include not only physical objects but also non-tangible objects such as services or tickets. Unless otherwise specified, the term "transaction" refers to the same single transaction.

[0011] The information processing system S includes multiple fully self-checkout registers 1 and one attendant terminal 2. The multiple fully self-checkout registers 1 and the one attendant terminal 2 are equipment located within the store.

[0012] Each device included in the information processing system S is connected to each other via a network NW, enabling communication. The network NW is a Local Area Network (LAN), etc. The LAN may be a wireless LAN or a wired LAN.

[0013] The information processing system S may include not just one, but multiple attendant terminals 2. The information processing system S is an example of an information processing system that includes at least two devices.

[0014] The full self-checkout 1 is a device for processing transactions in a store. The full self-checkout 1 has a product registration function and an accounting function, and is a POS (Point of sales) terminal that enables customers to perform product registration operations and accounting operations. The full self-checkout 1 is an example of a transaction processing device that enables customers to perform accounting operations. A transaction processing device that enables customers to perform accounting operations is an example of a transaction processing device that enables customers to perform transaction operations.

[0015] Product registration is the registration of products before the accounting of a transaction. The registered products are also referred to as registered goods. Accounting is the payment for a transaction after product registration. Accounting includes the meaning of settlement. Accounting methods for accounting in a transaction include offline settlement and online settlement.

[0016] Offline settlement is an accounting method that does not require the full self-checkout 1 to cooperate with other devices via a network such as the Internet. For example, offline settlement is accounting using cash and vouchers. A voucher is a ticket that circulates in a form similar to cash currency. For example, vouchers include various types of vouchers such as commodity vouchers, gift vouchers, rice vouchers, beer vouchers, shareholder preference vouchers, regional revitalization vouchers, and coupons, but are not limited to these. Note that vouchers include physical vouchers and digitized vouchers.

[0017] Online settlement is an accounting method that the full self-checkout 1 executes in cooperation with other devices via a network such as the Internet. For example, online settlement includes credit card settlement, electronic money settlement, debit card settlement, and code settlement.

[0018] The attendant terminal 2 is a device used by the store attendant. For example, the attendant terminal 2 is a device used by the attendant to monitor a plurality of full self-checkout 1s. The attendant terminal 2 may be a dedicated stationary device or a portable device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a PC (Personal Computer). The attendant terminal 2 is an example of an information processing device that processes information for transactions. An attendant includes the meaning of a store clerk. An attendant is an example of a user of the attendant terminal 2.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the attendant terminal 2.

[0020] The attendant terminal 2 includes a processing circuit 20, a main memory 21, a storage 22, a communication circuit 23, an input device 24, and a display device 25. The processing circuit 20, the main memory 21, the storage 22, the communication circuit 23, the input device 24, and the display device 25 are connected to each other so as to be able to input and output signals.

[0021] The processing circuit 20 corresponds to the central part of the attendant terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 is an element that constitutes the computer of the attendant terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 includes one or more circuits that execute a plurality of processes by a plurality of functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited thereto. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited thereto. The processing circuit 20 expands the program stored in the main memory 21 or the storage 22 into the main memory 21. The processing circuit 20 can execute various processes by executing the program expanded in the main memory 21.

[0022] The main memory 21 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the attendant terminal 2. The main memory 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the attendant terminal 2. The main memory 21 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 21, the operating system or programs are stored. The volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 21 is used as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 20. For example, the main memory 21 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 21 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0023] Storage 22 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the attendant terminal 2. Storage 22 includes one or more storage devices. For example, the storage device may be an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor storage medium such as an SSD (Solid State Drive), but is not limited to these. Storage 22 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processing circuit 20 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 20.

[0024] The storage 22 may include a group information storage area 221. The group information storage area 221 stores group information for each group set in the group setting table. Group information is information about a group. The group information storage area 221 is an example of a storage unit that stores group information.

[0025] A group is a collection of one or more fully self-checkout registers. Groups can be arbitrarily configured. Groups can also be based on the type of fully self-checkout register. For example, a group could be a collection of fully self-checkout registers with a change dispenser, or a collection of fully self-checkout registers without a change dispenser.

[0026] Group information may include a group number. The group number defines a number that identifies the group. The group number is used to link the group information to Full Self-Checkout 1 in the allocation information described later. The group number is an example of group identification information that can identify a group.

[0027] Group information can include a group name. The group name defines a name that indicates what kind of group it is.

[0028] Group information may include the group's display mode. The group's display mode defines the display mode of the register information for each full self-checkout register 1 to which the group is assigned. For example, the group's display mode is the display mode of the register information display area that displays the register information. The group's display mode includes one or more visual elements of the register information display area, such as color, pattern, shape, or size. Here, the group's display mode is described as the color of the border of the register information display area.

[0029] The register information is information from Full Self Register 1. The register information is information based on information transmitted from Full Self Register 1 to Attendant Terminal 2. The register information may include the status of Full Self Register 1. The status of Full Self Register 1 is a status such as "Waiting," "Registering," and "Checkout." "Waiting" is the state from when the previous customer has finished checking out until the next customer starts the operation for product registration. Product registration is the registration of products before the transaction is settled. "Registering" is the state from when the customer starts the operation for product registration until the customer starts the operation for checkout. "Checkout" is the state from when the customer starts the operation for checkout until the checkout is completed. If the status of Full Self Register 1 is "Registering," the register information may include registration information. The registration information may include information about each registered product. A registered product is a product registered through product registration. Information about a registered product may include all or part of the product name, price, quantity, and product price. The product name is the name of the registered product. The price is the unit price of the registered product. The quantity is the number of registered products identified by the same identification information. The product price is the amount calculated based on the product of the price and the quantity. If the full self-checkout register 1 has a change dispenser, the register information may include the status of the change dispenser. For example, the status of the change dispenser includes the amount of coins in the dispenser. Note that the register information may be any information relating to the full self-checkout register 1 and is not limited to the above example.

[0030] Storage 22 may include an allocation information storage area 222. The allocation information storage area 222 stores the allocation information for each full self-checkout register 1 set in the allocation setting table. The allocation information storage area 222 may store allocation information for all of the multiple full self-checkout registers 1. The allocation information storage area 222 may store allocation information for some of the multiple full self-checkout registers 1. The allocation information is information regarding the allocation of groups to the full self-checkout registers 1. The allocation information storage area 222 is an example of a storage unit that stores allocation information.

[0031] The assignment information may include the IP (Internet Protocol) address of Full Self-Checkout 1. In the following, the IP address refers to the IP address of Full Self-Checkout 1. The IP address is an example of identification information that can identify Full Self-Checkout 1.

[0032] The assignment information may include the group number of the group assigned to Full Self Register 1, which is identified by its IP address. The group number is as described above. Full Self Register 1, identified by its IP address, is linked to the group information identified by the group number.

[0033] The communication circuit 23 is a circuit that includes various interfaces for transmitting or receiving signals. The communication circuit 23 connects the attendant terminal 2 to other devices via a network NW, enabling communication between them.

[0034] The input device 24 is a device that can input instructions or information to the attendant terminal 2. The input device 24 may include a keyboard. The input device 24 may also form a touchscreen together with the display device 25. The input device 24 is an example of an input unit that can input instructions or information to the attendant terminal 2.

[0035] The display device 25 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 20. For example, the display device 25 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (electroluminescence) display. The display device 25 is an example of a display unit capable of displaying various images.

[0036] The hardware configuration of attendant terminal 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. Attendant terminal 2 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-described components and add new components.

[0037] The various means implemented by the processing circuit 20 will now be described. The processing circuit 20 implements a first setting means 201, a second setting means 202, and a display processing means 203. Each means implemented by the processing circuit 20 can also be called a part or a function.

[0038] The first setting means 201 sets assignment information based on user operation. User operation is an operation by an attendant to input instructions or information using the input device 24. For example, the first setting means 201 sets the assignment information in the assignment setting table by saving the assignment information in the assignment information storage area 222. Setting the assignment information includes the meaning of enabling the assignment information. The first setting means 201 is an example of a setting means for setting assignment information.

[0039] The second setting means 202 sets group information based on user operation. For example, the second setting means 202 sets group information in the group setting table by saving the group information in the group information storage area 221. Setting group information includes enabling the group information. The second setting means 202 is an example of a setting means for setting group information.

[0040] The display processing means 203 causes various images to be displayed on the display device 25. Displaying an image on the display device 25 is one example of processing an image so that it can be displayed on the display device 25.

[0041] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of a group setting table according to the embodiment. The group settings table contains the group information for each group. In the example shown in Figure 3, the group information includes the group number, group name, and the color of the border of the register information display area as the group's display method.

[0042] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the assignment setting table. The assignment settings table contains the assignment information for each full self-checkout machine. In the example in Figure 4, the assignment information includes the IP address and group number.

[0043] (Example display) An example of the display on display device 25 will be explained.

[0044] Figure 5 shows an example of the display of the assignment settings screen IA. Display device 25 displays the assignment settings screen IA.

[0045] The assignment settings screen IA is an image that allows input of information for setting assignment information for one or more full self-checkout machines 1 out of multiple full self-checkout machines 1. Hereinafter, the information for setting assignment information will also be referred to as assignment setting information. The assignment setting information may include the IP address of the full self-checkout machine 1 to which the group will be assigned. The assignment setting information may include the group number of the group to which the full self-checkout machine 1 identified by its IP address will be assigned.

[0046] The assignment settings screen IA can include an IP address input field AAA and group number input fields AAB for each full self-checkout register. The IP address input field AAA is an input field for entering an IP address as assignment setting information. The group number input fields AAB are input fields for entering a group number as assignment setting information.

[0047] The assignment settings screen IA may include a group settings button BAA. The group settings button BAA is a button that can input a display instruction for the group settings screen IB, which will be described later. The display instruction for the group settings screen IB is an instruction to display the group settings screen IB on the display device 25.

[0048] The assignment settings screen IA may include a save button BAB. The save button BAB is a button on which instructions for setting assignment information can be entered. The instructions for setting assignment information are instructions for setting assignment information based on the assignment setting information entered on the assignment settings screen IA.

[0049] The assignment settings screen IA may include an exit button BAC. The exit button BAC is a button that allows input of an instruction to end the assignment information setting process. The instruction to end the assignment information setting process is an instruction to clear the display of the assignment settings screen IA on the display device 25 in order to end the assignment information setting process.

[0050] Figure 6 shows an example of the Group Settings screen IB display. The Group Settings Screen (IB) is an image where information can be entered to configure group information for each of one or more groups. Hereinafter, the information used to configure group information will also be referred to as group configuration information. Group configuration information may include the group name of the group for which the group information is being configured. Group configuration information may also include the display mode of the group for which the group information is being configured.

[0051] The group settings screen IB may include a group name input field ABA and a display mode input field ABB for each group identified by a group number. The group name input field ABA is an input field for entering the group name as group setting information. The display mode input field ABB is an input field for entering the group's display mode as group setting information.

[0052] The group settings screen IB can include a save button BBA. The save button BBA is a button that allows input of instructions for setting group information. These instructions are for setting group information based on the group settings information entered on the group settings screen IB.

[0053] The group settings screen IB may include an exit button BBB. The exit button BBB is a button that allows input of an instruction to end the group information settings. The instruction to end the group information settings is an instruction to clear the display of the group settings screen IB on the display device 25 in order to end the group information settings.

[0054] Figure 7 shows an example of the IC display on the list screen. The display device 25 displays the list screen IC.

[0055] The list screen IC is an image capable of displaying multiple register entries. Each of these multiple register entries represents the register information of a different full self-checkout register 1. Here, the list screen IC is assumed to be capable of displaying the register information of 12 full self-checkout registers 1. However, the number of multiple register entries is not limited to this.

[0056] The list screen IC includes multiple register information display areas. Each of the multiple register information display areas displays register information for a different full self-checkout register 1. Here, the list screen IC is assumed to include 12 register information display areas, arranged in a 3-upper-row and 4-upper-row configuration. The number of multiple register information display areas is not limited to this. The arrangement of the multiple register information display areas is not limited to this.

[0057] If the number of fully self-checkout registers in the store is 12 or less, the register information for each of the fully self-checkout registers can be displayed on a single list screen IC. If the number of fully self-checkout registers in the store is 13 or more, the register information for each of the fully self-checkout registers can be displayed on multiple list screen ICs.

[0058] The order in which the register information is displayed is predetermined, starting with the first register information display area ICA in the upper left and ending with the twelfth register information display area ICL in the lower right. Here, the order in which the register information is displayed is as follows: first register information display area ICA, second register information display area ICB, third register information display area ICC, fourth register information display area ICD, fifth register information display area ICE, sixth register information display area ICF, seventh register information display area ICG, eighth register information display area ICH, ninth register information display area ICI, tenth register information display area ICJ, eleventh register information display area ICK, and twelfth register information display area ICL.

[0059] The display order of register information shall include prioritizing the register information of Full Self Register 1 for which assignment information has been set, over the register information of Full Self Register 1 for which assignment information has not been set. The display order of register information shall also include ascending order of the group numbers included in the assignment information set for Full Self Register 1.

[0060] Here, we will explain an example of how register information is displayed. The number of fully self-checkout machines in the store is assumed to be 12. Of the 12 fully self-checkout machines, 10 are assumed to have their allocation information configured. Of the 12 fully self-checkout machines, 2 are assumed to not have their allocation information configured.

[0061] Of the 10 fully self-checkout machines with assigned information, 5 are assigned to the group identified by group number "1". Of the 10 fully self-checkout machines with assigned information, 3 are assigned to the group identified by group number "2". Of the 10 fully self-checkout machines with assigned information, 2 are assigned to the group identified by group number "3".

[0062] The display device 25 displays the register information in group order on the list screen IC as follows: In each of the first register information display area ICA, the second register information display area ICB, the third register information display area ICC, the fourth register information display area ICD, and the fifth register information display area ICE, the display device 25 displays the register information of the full self register 1 that is assigned to the group identified by group number "1". In each of the sixth register information display area ICF, the seventh register information display area ICG, and the eighth register information display area ICH, the display device 25 displays the register information of the full self register 1 that is assigned to the group identified by group number "2". In each of the ninth register information display area ICI and the tenth register information display area ICJ, the display device 25 displays the register information of the full self register 1 that is assigned to the group identified by group number "3". The display device 25 displays the register information of the full self register 1 for which no assignment information has been set in the 11th register information display area ICK and the 12th register information display area ICL, respectively.

[0063] The display device 25 displays the register information display area in a group-specific display mode on the list screen IC as follows: The display device 25 displays the first register information display area ICA, the second register information display area ICB, the third register information display area ICC, the fourth register information display area ICD, and the fifth register information display area ICE in a display mode for the group identified by group number "1". Here, the display device 25 displays the first register information display area ICA, the second register information display area ICB, the third register information display area ICC, the fourth register information display area ICD, and the fifth register information display area ICE in such a way that the border color of the register information display area is displayed in the first color. Display device 25 displays the sixth register information display area ICF, the seventh register information display area ICG, and the eighth register information display area ICH in the display mode for the group identified by group number "2". Here, display device 25 displays the sixth register information display area ICF, the seventh register information display area ICG, and the eighth register information display area ICH in such a way that the border color of the register information display area is displayed in a second color. The second color is different from the first color. Display device 25 displays the ninth register information display area ICI and the tenth register information display area ICJ in the display mode for the group identified by group number "3". Here, display device 25 displays the ninth register information display area ICI and the tenth register information display area ICJ in such a way that the border color of the register information display area is displayed in a third color. The third color is different from the first and third colors. The display device 25 displays the 11th register information display area ICK and the 12th register information display area ICL in a normal display mode in which no color is displayed around the frame of the register information display area.

[0064] (Example of processing) The processing on attendant terminal 2 will be explained. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0065] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the group information setting process performed by the processing circuit 20 of the attendant terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 can set group information based on user operations by the process illustrated in Figure 8. For example, the processing circuit 20 sets group information for each of one or more groups based on user operations. Here, the user operation is assumed to be an operation in which an attendant uses the input device 24 to input group setting information for each of one or more groups. The process illustrated in Figure 8 may also be the process by the second setting means 202.

[0066] The processing circuit 20 receives group setting information (ACT1). In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 20 receives group setting information for one or more groups based on user operation. Here, the attendant uses the input device 24 to input group setting information for one or more groups on the group setting screen IB.

[0067] The processing circuit 20 receives instructions to set group information (ACT2). In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 20 receives instructions to set group information based on the selection of the save button BBA. Here, the attendant selects the save button BBA on the group setting screen IB using the input device 24.

[0068] The processing circuit 20 sets group information based on group setting information in response to a group information setting instruction (ACT3). In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 20 sets group information for one or more groups based on group setting information for each of the one or more groups.

[0069] As described above, the attendant terminal 2 can set group information based on user operations. This allows the attendant terminal 2 to configure group information so that attendants can easily monitor the full self-checkout register 1 for each group.

[0070] Group information may include the display method of the group. This allows the attendant terminal 2 to set a display mode for groups that makes it easier for the attendant to monitor the full self-checkout register 1 for each group.

[0071] The group's display configuration includes the color of the register information display area. This allows attendants to easily identify each group on the list screen IC by the difference in color of the register information display area.

[0072] Group information may include the group name. This allows the attendant to easily understand what kind of group it is.

[0073] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the process of setting assignment information by the processing circuit 20 of the attendant terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 can set assignment information based on user operation by the process illustrated in Figure 9. For example, the processing circuit 20 sets assignment information for one or more of the multiple full self-checkout registers 1 based on user operation. Here, the user operation is assumed to be an operation in which an attendant uses the input device 24 to input assignment setting information for one or more full self-checkout registers 1. The process illustrated in Figure 9 may also be the process by the first setting means 201.

[0074] The processing circuit 20 receives assignment setting information (ACT11). In ACT11, for example, the processing circuit 20 receives assignment setting information for each of the one or more full self-checkout machines 1 based on user operation. Here, the attendant uses the input device 24 to input the assignment setting information for each of the one or more full self-checkout machines 1 on the assignment setting screen IA.

[0075] The processing circuit 20 receives an instruction to set assignment information (ACT12). In ACT12, for example, the processing circuit 20 receives an instruction to set assignment information based on the selection of the save button BAB. Here, the attendant selects the save button BAB on the assignment setting screen IA using the input device 24.

[0076] The processing circuit 20 sets the assignment information based on the assignment setting information in response to the instruction to set the assignment information (ACT13). In ACT13, for example, the processing circuit 20 sets the assignment information for each of the one or more full self-checkout registers 1 based on the assignment setting information for each of the one or more full self-checkout registers 1.

[0077] As described above, the attendant terminal 2 can set assignment information based on user operations. This allows the attendant terminal 2 to set assignment information for each full self-checkout register 1, making it easier for attendants to monitor each group of full self-checkout registers 1.

[0078] The assignment information includes the group number. This allows attendants to specify the group number that should be prioritized for displaying a full self-checkout register 1 in a highly visible location on the list screen IC.

[0079] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the display process of the list screen IC by the processing circuit 20 of the attendant terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 can display register information on the display device 25 for each group based on the assignment information and group information, by the processing illustrated in Figure 10. The processing circuit 20 displaying register information on the display device 25 for each group includes the processing circuit 20 displaying the register information on the display device 25 in a display format for each group. The processing circuit 20 displaying register information on the display device 25 for each group also includes the processing circuit 20 displaying the register information on the display device 25 in group order. The processing illustrated in Figure 10 may also be performed by the display processing means 203.

[0080] The processing circuit 20 receives a display instruction for register information (ACT21). In ACT21, for example, the processing circuit 20 receives a display instruction for register information based on user operation. The display instruction for register information is an instruction to display the list screen IC on the display device 25. Here, the user operation is assumed to be an operation in which an attendant inputs a display instruction for register information using the input device 24.

[0081] The processing circuit 20 determines the display order of the register information based on the instruction to display the register information (ACT22). In AC22, for example, the processing circuit 20 determines the display order of multiple full self registers 1 based on the assignment information of each full self register 1. The processing circuit 20 can determine the display order so that the register information of full self registers 1 for which assignment information has been set takes precedence over the register information of full self registers 1 for which assignment information has not been set. The processing circuit 20 can determine the display order of the register information of full self registers 1 for which assignment information has been set in ascending order of the group numbers included in the assignment information set for each full self register 1.

[0082] The processing circuit 20 determines the display mode of the register information based on the instruction to display the register information (ACT23). In ACT23, for example, the processing circuit 20 determines the display mode of the register information for each of the multiple full self-checkout registers 1 based on the assignment information of each full self-checkout register 1 and the group information of each group. The processing circuit 20 can determine the display mode of the register information for each full self-checkout register 1 for which assignment information has been set to the display mode of the group identified by the group number included in the assignment information. The processing circuit 20 can determine the display mode of the register information for each full self-checkout register 1 for which assignment information has not been set to the normal display mode. The display mode of the register information includes the display mode of the register information display area for displaying the register information. For example, the display mode of the information display area is the color of the frame of the register information display area.

[0083] The processing circuit 20 displays the register information on the display device 25 (ACT24). In ACT24, for example, the processing circuit 20 displays the register information on the display device 25 based on the determined display order. In this example, the processing circuit 20 displays the register information of each full self register 1 for which assignment information has been set, in group order, in the register information display area of ​​each register on the list screen IC, on the display device 25.

[0084] As described above, the attendant terminal 2 can display the register information on the display device 25 in group order. This allows the attendant terminal 2 to display register information on the display device 25 in a way that makes it easier to recognize each group based on its display position. Therefore, the attendant terminal 2 can improve the visibility of the display for monitoring multiple full self-checkout registers 1.

[0085] For example, the processing circuit 20 displays the register information on the display device 25 based on the determined register information display mode. In this example, the processing circuit 20 displays the register information for each full self register 1 for which assignment information has been set, in a group-by-group display mode on the list screen IC. The processing circuit 20 can display a register information display area on the display device 25 that displays the register information for each full self register 1 for which assignment information has been set, in a group-by-group display mode. The processing circuit 20 may also display a register information display area on the display device 25 that displays the register information for each full self register 1 for which assignment information has been set, using a frame color for each group.

[0086] As described above, the attendant terminal 2 can display register information on the display device 25 in a display format specific to each group. This allows the attendant terminal 2 to display register information on the display device 25 in a way that makes it easier to recognize each group based on the display format. Therefore, the attendant terminal 2 can improve the visibility of the display for monitoring multiple full self-checkout registers 1.

[0087] In ACT24, the processing circuit 20 displays the register information on the display device 25 in a group-by-group display mode and in group order, but is not limited to this. The processing circuit 20 may display the register information on the display device 25 in either a group-by-group display mode or in group order. In this example, if the processing circuit 20 displays the register information on the display device 25 in a group-by-group display mode, it does not need to display the register information on the display device 25 in group order. If the processing circuit 20 displays the register information on the display device 25 in group order, it does not need to display the register information on the display device 25 in a group-by-group display mode. In this case, the processing circuit 20 does not need group information.

[0088] As described above, the attendant terminal 2 can display register information on the display device 25 for each group based on the assignment information. This allows the attendant terminal 2 to display register information on the display device 25 in a way that makes it easier to recognize each group. As a result, the attendant terminal 2 can improve the visibility of the display for monitoring multiple full self-checkout registers 1.

[0089] <Other Embodiments> In the above-described embodiment, a fully self-checkout register 1 was used as an example of a transaction processing device that allows customers to perform accounting operations, but the system is not limited to this. The transaction processing device that allows customers to perform accounting operations may be a separate device from the device that allows customers to register products. In this example, the device that allows customers to register products may be a portable device that constitutes the self-checkout system, or a stationary device. The portable device may be a dedicated terminal mounted on a shopping cart, a mobile terminal prepared in advance by the store, or a mobile terminal owned by the customer.

[0090] The above-described embodiment is applicable to a transaction processing device that allows customers to manipulate transactions. A transaction processing device that allows customers to manipulate transactions is not limited to a transaction processing device that allows customers to manipulate accounting. A transaction processing device that allows customers to manipulate transactions may be a separate device from a transaction processing device that allows customers to manipulate accounting, and may be a device that allows customers to register products. A device that allows customers to register products may be the device described above.

[0091] Each of the means implemented by the processing circuit 20 described in the above embodiment may be implemented by a server that can communicate with the attendant terminal 2. In this case, the server transmits information to the attendant terminal 2 for displaying various images on the display device 25. The server transmitting information to the attendant terminal 2 is an example of the server processing the images to be displayed on the display device 25. The server is an example of an information processing device.

[0092] Each means implemented by the processing circuit 20 described in the above-described embodiment is not limited to being implemented in a single device such as the attendant terminal 2. Each means may be implemented in a distributed manner across multiple devices. In this case, the collection of multiple devices is an example of an information processing device.

[0093] The embodiments described above may be applied to methods performed by the device. The embodiments described above may be applied to a program that can cause the computer of the device to perform each function. The embodiments described above may be applied to a recording medium that stores the program.

[0094] Each of the one or more circuits that make up a processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs some of the multiple processes. Some of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be contained in a single device, or they may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0095] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0096] 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.

[0097] Some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (1) An information processing device used to monitor multiple transaction processing devices that allow customers to perform accounting operations, A setting means for setting assignment information relating to the assignment of a group to each of the multiple transaction processing units, based on user operation, A display processing means that processes information related to the transaction processing device for each group based on the aforementioned allocation information and displays it on the display unit, An information processing device equipped with the following features. (2) The display processing means processes information relating to the transaction processing device to be displayed on the display unit in a display manner for each group. (1) The information processing device described above. (3) Further comprising setting means for setting group information, including the display mode of the group, based on user operation, The information processing device described in (1) or (2). (4) The display mode includes the color of the area for displaying information related to the transaction processing device, (2) or (3) the information processing device described above. (5) The display processing means processes information related to the transaction processing device to be displayed on the display unit in group order. An information processing device as described in any of (1) to (4). (6) The computer of the information processing device used to monitor multiple transaction processing devices on which customers can perform accounting operations, A function to set assignment information regarding the assignment of groups to one or more of the multiple transaction processing units based on user operations, Based on the aforementioned allocation information, a function is provided to display information regarding the transaction processing device on the display unit for each group. A program that can execute [this action]. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1...Full self-checkout, 2...Attendant terminal, 20...Processing circuit, 21...Main memory, 22...Storage, 23...Communication circuit, 24...Input device, 25...Display device, 201...First setting means, 202...Second setting means, 203...Display processing means, 221...Group information storage area, 222...Assignment information storage area, AAA...IP address input field, AAB...Group number input field, ABA...Group name input field, ABB...Display mode input field, BAA...Group setting button, BAB...Save button, BAC...Exit button, BBA...Save button, BBB...Exit button, IA... Assignment setting screen, IB... Group setting screen, IC... List screen, ICA... First register information display area, ICB... Second register information display area, ICC... Third register information display area, ICD... Fourth register information display area, ICE... Fifth register information display area, ICF... Sixth register information display area, ICG... Seventh register information display area, ICH... Eighth register information display area, ICI... Ninth register information display area, ICJ... Tenth register information display area, ICK... Eleventh register information display area, ICL... Twelfth register information display area, NW... Network, S... Information processing system.

Claims

1. An information processing device used to monitor multiple transaction processing devices that allow customers to perform accounting operations, A setting means for setting assignment information regarding group assignment for each of the multiple transaction processing units, based on user operation, A display processing means that processes information related to the transaction processing device for each group based on the aforementioned allocation information and displays it on the display unit, An information processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The display processing means processes information related to the transaction processing device to be displayed on the display unit in a display configuration for each group. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The system further includes a setting means for setting group information, including the display mode of the group, based on user operations. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned display mode includes a color for the area that displays information related to the transaction processing device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

5. The display processing means processes information related to the transaction processing device to be displayed on the display unit in group order. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The computer of the information processing unit used to monitor multiple transaction processing units that allow customers to perform payment operations, A function to set assignment information regarding group assignment for each of the multiple transaction processing units based on user operation, Based on the aforementioned allocation information, a function is provided to display information regarding the transaction processing device on the display unit for each group. A program that can execute [this action].

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