Transaction processing device, information processing program, and transaction processing system

Abstract

To reduce the burden on customers or staff when staff involvement is required. [Solution] The transaction processing device of the embodiment comprises a first mode switching means, a registration means, a calling means, and a second mode switching means. The first mode switching means switches between a first mode that accepts operations by a first operator and a second mode that accepts operations by a second operator, in response to a mode switching operation. The registration means registers a designated product in response to the product being designated as the object of the transaction. The calling means calls a second operator when the transaction processing is started in the first mode as the operation mode, in response to the registration of a specific product. The second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode in response to a predetermined process different from the mode switching operation when the second operator is called by the calling means.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , , ,

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, a transaction processing apparatus that switches between a first mode for accepting customer operations and a second mode for accepting operations of store staff has been conventionally known. Such a transaction processing apparatus is operated in a manner of appropriately switching between both modes according to the circumstances of the store, for example, applying the first mode during slack hours and the second mode during congested hours.

[0003] In the first mode for accepting customer operations, staff involvement may be required for transactions. For example, some products such as Chinese buns and oden are taken out of the case by staff and handed to customers. Also, when providing some services such as a delivery reception service for express delivery, operations such as measuring the size of the luggage by staff may be required. Furthermore, when purchasing a prepaid card, staff may perform a confirmation operation to prevent fraud. Therefore, in a transaction processing apparatus to which the first mode is applied, when such staff involvement is required, the customer has to call out to the staff, which has been a burden on the customer. On the other hand, the staff who has been called out has to identify the work to be done and perform the necessary operation from among various operations, which has been a burden on the staff.

Prior Art Documents

[0005] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a transaction processing device, an information processing program, and a transaction processing system that can reduce the burden on customers or staff when staff involvement is required. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The transaction processing device of the embodiment comprises a first mode switching means, a registration means, a calling means, and a second mode switching means. The first mode switching means switches between a first mode that accepts operations by a first operator and a second mode that accepts operations by a second operator, in response to a mode switching operation. The registration means registers a designated product in response to the product being designated as the object of the transaction. The calling means calls a second operator when a transaction processing is started in the first mode as the operating mode and a specific product has been registered. The second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode in response to a predetermined process different from the mode switching operation when the second operator is called by the calling means. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a transaction processing system according to one embodiment, and the main circuit configuration of the transaction processing device included in this transaction processing system 1. [Figure 2] Flowchart of the mode switching process. [Figure 3] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 4] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 5] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 6] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of the first registration screen. [Figure 8] A diagram showing the calling screen. [Figure 9] A diagram showing the screen for specifying the handover destination for customer inquiries. [Figure 10] A diagram showing the screen for specifying the handover recipient for staff members. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following describes a transaction processing system for handling customer transactions in a store, using diagrams. In this embodiment, the goods subject to transactions include items picked up by customers from the store's display space, items handed to customers by staff, or services that do not involve the handover of goods. In other words, "goods" refers to goods or services.

[0009] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the transaction processing system 1 according to this embodiment, and the main circuit configuration of the transaction processing device 100 included in this transaction processing system 1. The transaction processing system 1 includes a transaction processing device 100 and a staff terminal 200. The transaction processing system 1 is configured so that the transaction processing device 100 and the staff terminal 200 can communicate with each other via a communication network 2.

[0010] Figure 1 shows one transaction processing unit 100 and one staff terminal 200, but their individual numbers are arbitrary. Communication network 2 can use the internet, VPN (virtual private network), LAN (local area network), public communication network, mobile communication network, etc., individually or in appropriate combinations. A LAN is used as one example of communication network 2.

[0011] The transaction processing device 100 is an information processing device that registers the goods purchased by a customer as transaction goods and processes the payment for the transaction goods. For example, it is a POS (point of sales) terminal. In other words, the transaction processing device 100 is an example of a transaction processing device. The staff terminal 200 is a terminal device used by staff. Preferably, the staff terminal 200 is, for example, a POS terminal. Alternatively, the staff terminal 200 may be a portable communication terminal carried by staff. In this case, it is assumed that the staff terminal 200 may be a smartphone or a tablet device. However, the staff terminal 200 may also be a computer device that is permanently installed in the store's office or elsewhere.

[0012] The transaction processing device 100 includes a processor 101, a main storage unit 102, a sub-storage unit 103, an I / O unit 104, a customer-facing touch panel 105, a staff-facing touch panel 106, a handheld scanner 107, a payment terminal 108, a change-giving unit 109, a receipt printer 110, a sound unit 111, a communication unit 112, and a transmission line 113. The transaction processing device 100 may also be equipped with a fixed scanner. The fixed scanner or handheld scanner 107 is an example of a reading means. The transaction processing device 100 may also be equipped with a keyboard.

[0013] By connecting the processor 101, the main storage unit 102, and the sub-storage unit 103 with a transmission line 113, a computer is configured to perform information processing for controlling the transaction processing device 100. The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 101 performs information processing to control each part in order to realize various functions as a transaction processing device 100, in accordance with information processing programs such as the operating system and application programs.

[0014] The main memory unit 102 corresponds to the main memory portion of the above computer. The main memory unit 102 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 102 stores a part of the above information processing program in the read-only memory area. Also, the main memory unit 102 may store data necessary for the processor 101 to execute processes for controlling each part in the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 102 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area by the processor 101.

[0015] The sub-memory unit 103 corresponds to the auxiliary memory portion of the above computer. The sub-memory unit 103 can use, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disc drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or other various well-known memory devices. The sub-memory unit 103 stores data used by the processor 101 to perform various processes and data generated by the processes in the processor 101. The sub-memory unit 103 may store the above information processing program. In this embodiment, the sub-memory unit 103 stores a control program PRA, which is one of the information processing programs. The control program PRA is an application program that describes the control processing procedures for realizing the operation as the transaction processing device 100.

[0016] The I / O unit 104 performs input / output processing for the above computer to exchange data with the customer-side touch panel 105, the staff-side touch panel 106, the handy scanner 107, the payment terminal 108, the change unit 109, the receipt printer 110, and the sound unit 111.

[0017] The customer-facing touch panel 105 displays a screen for presenting information to the operator who operates the transaction processing device 100. The customer-facing touch panel 105 also inputs instructions based on the touch operations on the screen by the operator. The transaction processing device 100 is installed in the store so that the customer can operate this customer-facing touch panel 105. Therefore, the operator of the customer-facing touch panel 105 is mainly the customer. However, in some cases, the staff may also be the operator of the customer-facing touch panel 105. The customer-facing touch panel 105 is an example of the first display and input means.

[0018] The staff-facing touch panel 106 displays a screen for presenting information to the operator who operates the transaction processing device 100. The staff-facing touch panel 106 also inputs instructions based on the touch operations on the screen by the operator. The staff-facing touch panel 106 is connected to the I / O unit 104 via the connector CO and is detachable. And the staff-facing touch panel 106 may not be provided in the transaction processing device 100. The case where the staff-facing touch panel 106 is not provided is hereinafter referred to as a one-screen configuration. The case where the staff-facing touch panel 106 is provided is hereinafter referred to as a two-screen configuration. When the transaction processing device 100 includes the staff-facing touch panel 106, it is installed on the customer service counter with the staff-facing touch panel 106 facing the standing position of the staff facing the customer across the customer service counter (hereinafter referred to as the facing position). Therefore, the operator of the staff-facing touch panel 106 is the staff. The staff-facing touch panel 106 is an example of the second display and input means.

[0019] Note that the handheld scanner 107, the payment terminal 108, the change unit 109, the receipt printer 110, and the sound unit 111 may also be configured to be connected to the I / O unit 104 via connectors respectively.

[0020] The handheld scanner 107 is held in the operator's hand and optically reads the barcode facing the reading port. The handheld scanner 107 outputs the barcode information represented by the read barcode to the processor 101. The payment terminal 108 reads data recorded on payment cards such as credit cards, prepaid cards, and electronic money cards. The payment terminal 108 also writes data to payment cards.

[0021] The change unit 109 counts the coins inserted through the coin slot and stores them in an internal storage compartment. The change unit 109 then discharges the coins stored in the storage compartment into a coin tray via a coin discharge port. The change unit 109 counts the banknotes inserted through the banknote slot and stores them in an internal storage compartment. The change unit 109 then discharges the banknotes stored in the storage compartment through a banknote discharge port. The banknote discharge port holds the discharged banknotes with a portion of them exposed to the outside.

[0022] The receipt printer 110 prints an image of a receipt, invoice, or sales slip onto the receipt paper. The receipt printer 110 then ejects the receipt paper with the printed image from the receipt output slot to the outside. The sound unit 111 outputs sounds and voices for various announcements and warnings. Various well-known sound devices, such as a speech synthesis device and a buzzer, can be used as the sound unit, either individually or in combination.

[0023] The communication unit 112 performs communication processing for data communication via the communication network 2. For example, an existing wired communication device for a LAN can be used as the communication unit 112. Alternatively, a wireless communication device connected to the communication network 2 via wireless communication may be used as the communication unit 112, either in place of or in addition to the wired communication device. The transmission line 113 includes an address bus, a data bus, and control signal lines, and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected parts.

[0024] As the basic hardware for the transaction processing device 100, existing hardware such as another POS terminal can be used. In this case, the transfer of the transaction processing device 100 is generally carried out with the control program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 103. However, the hardware of the transaction processing device 100 and the control program PRA may be transferred separately, without the control program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 103. The control program PRA may then be written to the sub-storage unit 103 in response to an operation by any operator. Alternatively, the hardware of the transaction processing device 100 and the control program PRA may be transferred separately, with a different version of the same type of information processing program as the control program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 103. The control program PRA may then be written to replace the information processing program already stored in the sub-storage unit 103. The transfer of the control program PRA can be carried out by recording it on a removable, non-temporary recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network. The control program PRA may be stored in the main memory unit 102.

[0025] Next, the operation of the transaction processing system 1 configured as described above will be explained. Note that the content of the various processes described below is merely an example, and it is possible to change the order of some processes, omit some processes, or add other processes as appropriate. For example, in the following explanation, some processes have been omitted in order to clearly illustrate the characteristic operation of this embodiment. For example, if an error occurs, processing to deal with that error may be performed, but such processing has been omitted from the description.

[0026] The transaction processing device 100 has two operating modes: a first mode for accepting customer operations and a second mode for accepting store staff operations. In other words, in the first mode, the customer is the operator of the transaction processing device 100, and the customer is an example of a first operator. In the second mode, the staff is the operator of the transaction processing device 100, and the staff is an example of a second operator. When a predetermined operation to specify the switching of the operating mode is performed by the staff, the processor 101 executes a mode switching process based on the control program PRA. The processor 101 accepts operations to switch the operating mode at any time, whether it is in a standby state where no transaction processing is being performed, during the registration of transaction details, or during accounting.

[0027] One example of a predetermined procedure for specifying the switching of the operation mode is to (1) have the handheld scanner 107 read a barcode that proves the authority to switch the operation mode, (2) touch the button that instructs the display of the business menu screen, and (3) touch the mode switching button on the business menu screen.

[0028] Figure 2 is a flowchart of the mode switching process. As ACT1, processor 101 checks if the currently set operating mode is the first mode. If it is the first mode, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT2. As ACT2, processor 101 switches the operating mode to the second mode. Then processor 101 terminates the mode switching process.

[0029] On the other hand, if the processor 101 cannot confirm that the currently set operating mode is the first mode, that is, if the current operating mode is the second mode, it determines NO in ACT1 and proceeds to ACT3. As ACT3, processor 101 switches the operating mode to the first mode. Then processor 101 terminates the mode switching process.

[0030] In this way, by having staff perform predetermined operations to specify the switching of the operating mode, the operating mode can be selectively switched between the first mode and the second mode. Based on the control program PRA, the processor 101 performs information processing to switch the operating mode in response to the operation specifying the switching of the operating mode, and the computer with the processor 101 as its central part functions as the first mode switching means. When the operating mode is switched to the first mode, the function of the processor 101 as the first operating mode means is activated, as will be described later. When the operating mode is switched to the second mode, the function of the processor 101 as the second operating mode means is activated, as will be described later.

[0031] On the other hand, when the processor 101 is in an operating state where it should process transactions with customers, it executes transaction processing according to the control program PRA. Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6 are flowcharts of the transaction process. As ACT11 in Figure 3, processor 101 checks whether the transaction processing unit 100 has a single-screen configuration when it is started up. If the transaction processing unit 100 has a single-screen configuration, as ACT12, processor 101 switches to the first mode and proceeds to ACT14. If the transaction processing unit 100 does not have a single-screen configuration, i.e., it has a two-screen configuration, processor 101 proceeds to ACT13. As ACT13, processor 101 checks whether to start transaction processing in the first mode as the operating mode. If it decides to start transaction processing in the first mode as the operating mode, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT14.

[0032] As ACT14, the processor 101 displays the first registration screen to the customer. In this embodiment, displaying various screens, including the first registration screen, on the customer touch panel 105 is referred to as customer display. The first registration screen is a screen for registering the goods to be traded (hereinafter referred to as trade goods) on the customer touch panel 105.

[0033] Figure 7 shows an example of the first registration screen. Note that in the diagrams representing various screens, including the first registration screen, some of the text and images displayed on the screens have been omitted from the illustrations. The first registration screen shown in Figure 7 includes areas ARA, ARB, ARC, ARD, and ARE.

[0034] Area ARA represents multiple Button BUA. Button BUA are soft keys used to specify categories of products that customers cannot pick up from the sales floor, or categories of services that do not involve the exchange of goods. For example, pressing the "Fast Food" button BUA will display buttons representing product names such as prepared foods, steamed buns, oden, or drinks in Area ARB. Alternatively, pressing the "Services" button BUA will display buttons representing service names such as multi-copy service, payment collection service, courier service, reservation sales service, POSA (point of sales activation) (registered trademark) cards and other prepaid cards, or electronic money top-ups in Area ARB.

[0035] An area ARB (Arbitrary Area Block) can represent multiple button BUBs. Button BUBs are soft keys used to specify products that customers cannot pick up from the sales floor, or soft keys used to specify services that do not involve the exchange of goods. For example, a button BUB might represent the name of a product, such as prepared food, steamed buns, oden (Japanese stew), or drinks. Alternatively, a button BUB might represent the name of a service, such as multi-copy service, payment collection service, courier service, reservation service, prepaid card, or electronic money top-up.

[0036] Area ARC displays a list of registered trading products. In other words, Area ARC displays the registered trading details. In the first registration screen displayed by Processor 101 as it progresses from ACT13 to ACT14, the registration of trading products has not yet begun, so Area ARC does not display a list of trading products.

[0037] Area ARD represents the total number of registered trading items and the total amount paid for all trading items. Area ARE represents buttons for various specifications distinct from product selection. Button BUC, one of the buttons displayed in Area ARE, is a soft key that indicates that registration is complete and the user should proceed to checkout.

[0038] In ACT15, processor 101 checks whether the goods to be traded have been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT16. As ACT16, processor 101 checks whether the operating mode has been switched. If processor 101 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT17.

[0039] As ACT17, processor 101 checks if a transition to accounting has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT15. Thus, processor 101 waits for either a product to be specified, an operation mode to be switched, or a transition to accounting to be specified as ACT15~ACT17.

[0040] The customer performs predetermined operations on the transaction processing device 100 to specify the goods to be traded. For example, the operation to specify the goods is to have the handheld scanner 107 read the barcode of the item picked up in the store. For example, the operation to specify the goods is to have the handheld scanner 107 read the barcode printed on the receipt. Alternatively, for example, the operation to specify the goods is to touch one of the buttons BUB on the first registration screen.

[0041] In response to the operation to specify the product as described above, processor 101 determines YES at ACT15 in Figure 3 and proceeds to ACT18. As ACT18, processor 101 confirms whether the designated product is a product that has been predetermined to require staff involvement in transactions (hereinafter referred to as "specified product").

[0042] The specific products to be designated among the goods traded in the store may be determined as appropriate according to the store's circumstances. In this embodiment, the specific products are defined as goods handed to customers by staff and services that do not involve the handover of goods. Examples of goods handed to customers by staff include prepared foods, steamed buns, oden, or drinks, which are placed near the checkout counter or in the back room and picked up by staff from their storage location and handed to customers. Examples of services that do not involve the handover of goods include multi-copy services, payment collection services, courier service acceptance services, reservation sales services, prepaid cards, or electronic money top-ups.

[0043] If a barcode is read by the handheld scanner 107 when a product is specified, the processor 101 obtains the barcode information represented by that barcode from the handheld scanner 107. The processor 101 then determines that the specified product is a specific product if the barcode system of the barcode information matches the barcode system of the specific product's barcode. The processor 101 also determines that the specified product is a specific product if the product code included in the barcode information is defined as a specific product in the product master. Furthermore, the processor 101 determines that the specified product is a specific product if the button BUB displayed on the first registration screen is touched when the product is specified, and the touched button is set to be a specific product. Furthermore, if a button displayed on the first registration screen is touched when specifying a product, barcode information is associated with that touched button, and there is no setting to determine whether or not the touched button is a specific product, the processor 101 will refer to the product master and determine whether or not it is a specific product, similar to when the barcode is read by the handheld scanner 107 described above.

[0044] If the handheld scanner 107 is not available, the processor 101 may only allow touching buttons BUA and BUB on the first registration screen as an operation to specify a specific product, and may only determine that the specified product is a specific product if button BUB is touched when specifying the product.

[0045] If processor 101 cannot confirm that the specified product is a specific product, it determines NO in ACT18 and proceeds to ACT19. As ACT19, processor 101 registers the specified merchandise as trading merchandise. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing based on the control program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a first operating mode means.

[0046] As ACT20, processor 101 updates the first registration screen to reflect the transaction details changed by the above registration. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state for ACT15-ACT17. Thus, if the customer repeatedly specifies items other than the specified items as the subject of the transaction, the processor 101 repeats ACT19 and ACT20, registering the specified items as transaction items. Once the customer has finished registering the transaction items for transactions that only involve items other than the specified items, they specify to proceed to accounting by performing a predetermined operation, such as touching the button BUC on the first registration screen. In response, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT17 and proceeds to ACT21.

[0047] As ACT21, processor 101 performs accounting processing. That is, processor 101 calculates the amount to be settled according to the registered transaction details. Then processor 101 performs settlement processing to settle the calculated amount. The details of this accounting processing can be the same as, for example, the processing performed in existing fully self-service POS terminals. In other words, the operations related to accounting are basically performed by the customer. However, at least a part of the operations related to accounting may be performed by staff. After processor 101 has finished the accounting processing, it returns to ACT14 and proceeds to the next transaction. That is, processor 101 displays the initial first registration screen to the customer and awaits the customer's operation for another transaction for the new customer.

[0048] Now, if processor 101 confirms that the specified product is a specific product, it determines YES in ACT18 and proceeds to ACT31 in Figure 4. As ACT31, processor 101 executes a staff call process. The staff call process is a process to notify staff that their involvement is required for the registration of a specific product. For example, processor 101 requests staff terminal 200, which is predetermined as the notification destination, to display a staff call screen via the communication network 2. In response to this request, staff terminal 200 displays a staff call screen. The staff call screen is a screen that notifies staff that their involvement is required in the transaction processing device 100, using text messages and images. Thus, by having processor 101 execute information processing based on the control program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a staff call means that executes a staff call request to staff terminal 200 as a staff call process. Staff terminal 200 also functions as a notification means that notifies staff in response to a staff call request. If a staff member recognizes from the staff call screen that their involvement is required at the transaction processing device 100, they proceed to the transaction processing device 100. By implementing this system for calling staff, the burden on customers of having to call out to staff can be reduced.

[0049] As ACT32, the processor 101 displays the calling screen on the customer-facing touch panel 105. The processor 101 may also display the calling screen on the staff-facing touch panel 106. The calling screen is a screen that indicates that staff are being called. The processor 101 displays the calling screen on at least the customer-facing screen. If the processor 101 has a dual-screen configuration, it may also display the calling screen on the staff-facing screen. In this embodiment, displaying various screens, including the calling screen, on the staff-facing touch panel 106 is referred to as staff-facing display.

[0050] Figure 8 shows the calling screen. The calling screen shown in Figure 8 is a screen in which a dialog DIA is overlaid on the first registration screen that was displayed before the calling screen was displayed. The dialog DIA displays a text message indicating that a staff member is being called.

[0051] In Figure 4, processor 101, as ACT33, waits for the customer to cancel the DIA dialog box indicating that a store clerk is being called. Until the customer cancels the call screen, the system does not proceed to processing related to the specific product designated by the customer. In other words, based on the control program PRA, processor 101 performs information processing to wait until the customer cancels the call screen, thereby enabling the computer, with processor 101 as its central component, to function as a means of waiting for the call to be canceled.

[0052] As described above, the staff member who approaches the transaction processing unit 100 performs a predetermined calling screen clearing operation on the transaction processing unit 100. The calling screen clearing operation is, for example, an operation to input predetermined clearing information into the transaction processing unit 100. As clearing information, it is expected that, for example, a responsible person barcode will be used to prove that the staff member has the authority to operate the transaction processing unit 100. In this case, the calling screen clearing operation is, for example, an operation to have the responsible person barcode read by the handheld scanner 107. If such a calling screen clearing operation is performed correctly, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT34 in Figure 4.

[0053] In ACT34, the processor 101 checks whether the transaction processing unit 100 has a single-screen configuration. If the transaction processing unit 100 has a two-screen configuration, the processor 101 determines NO and proceeds to ACT35. In other words, by having the processor 101 perform information processing to determine whether the transaction processing unit 100 has a single-screen configuration based on the control program PRA, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a screen configuration determination means. As ACT35, processor 101 displays a handover destination designation screen to specify which screen will take over the staff's operations. The handover destination designation screen is a screen for receiving the staff's specification of whether to perform operations on the customer-facing touch panel 105 or the staff-facing touch panel 106. For example, processor 101 displays the handover destination designation screen for the customer on the customer side and the handover destination designation screen for the staff side on the staff side. In other words, based on the control program PRA, the transaction processing device 100 executes information processing by processor 101 to display the handover destination designation screen, and the computer with processor 101 as its central part functions as a handover destination designation means. By displaying this handover destination designation screen, if a staff member approaching the transaction processing device 100 is on the customer-facing touch panel 105 side (for example, outside the cash register counter), they can operate the handover destination designation screen displayed on the customer-facing touch panel 105. On the other hand, if a staff member approaching the transaction processing device 100 is on the staff-facing touch panel 106 side (for example, inside the cash register counter), they can operate the handover destination designation screen displayed on the staff-facing touch panel 106. Therefore, since there is no need to operate the touch panel on the opposite side of where the staff member is located, the operability of the transaction processing device 100 can be improved.

[0054] Figure 9 shows the screen for specifying the transfer destination for the customer. The handover destination specification screen shown in Figure 9 is a screen in which a dialog DIB is superimposed on the first registration screen that was displayed before the handover destination specification screen was displayed. The dialog DIB represents a button BUD, which is a soft key for specifying that the staff operation should be performed on the customer-facing touch panel 105, and also indicates through a text message that the button BUD should be touched if the staff operation is to be performed on the customer-facing touch panel 105.

[0055] Figure 10 shows the screen for specifying the handover destination for staff members. The handover destination specification screen shown in Figure 10 is a screen that displays a dialog DIC overlaid on the screen that was displayed on the staff touch panel 106 before the handover destination specification screen was displayed. The dialog DIC represents button BUE, which is a soft key for specifying that the staff operation should be performed on the staff touch panel 106, and also indicates through a text message that if the staff operation is to be performed on the staff touch panel 106, button BUE should be touched.

[0056] Alternatively, a screen indicating the handover destination, which includes buttons for specifying that staff operations should be performed on the customer-facing touch panel 105 and buttons for specifying that staff operations should be performed on the staff-facing touch panel 106, may be displayed on either the customer-facing touch panel 105 or the staff-facing touch panel 106, or both.

[0057] In Figure 4, as ACT36, processor 101 checks whether the handover destination for the staff operation was specified on the customer screen or the staff screen. If the handover destination was not specified on the customer screen (i.e., specified on the staff screen), processor 101 determines NO and proceeds to ACT42. On the other hand, as ACT36, processor 101 determines YES if the handover destination for the staff operation was specified on the customer screen and proceeds to ACT37. Thus, processor 101 waits for either the customer side or the staff side to be specified.

[0058] If a staff member decides to perform staff operations using the customer-facing touch panel 105, they touch the BUD button on the handover destination designation screen displayed on the customer-facing touch panel 105. The processor 101 then determines YES in ACT36 in Figure 4 and proceeds to ACT37. In ACT37, the processor 101 switches from the first mode to the second mode in response to the touch of the BUD button. If the processor 101 determines that it is a single-screen configuration, it will determine YES in ACT34, skip ACT35 and ACT36, and proceed to ACT37. Then, in ACT37, the processor 101 switches from the first mode to the second mode according to the determination result that it is a single-screen configuration. As described above, by operating the mode switching button on the business menu screen, it is possible to switch from the first mode to the second mode without changing the operation mode (i.e., without performing a mode switching operation), depending on the designation of the staff member to whom the operation will be handed over or the determination that it is a single-screen configuration, thereby reducing the burden on staff.

[0059] As ACT38, processor 101 accepts customer-facing operations from staff. Customer-facing operation acceptance is the process of accepting staff operations on the customer-facing touch panel 105. Customer-facing operations by staff vary depending on the specified product. Examples of customer-facing operations by staff are as follows:

[0060] (Payment collection by proxy) The staff member receives the payment slip from the customer and has the handheld scanner 107 read the barcode printed on the payment slip. In response, the processor 101 acquires the barcode information output from the handheld scanner 107 and determines the contents of the payment based on this barcode information. The processor 101 displays a confirmation screen to the customer for confirmation of the confirmed payment contents. The staff member confirms with the customer whether the payment contents displayed on the customer's screen are correct. Upon receiving confirmation from the customer that there are no errors, the staff member confirms the payment by performing a predetermined operation, such as touching a button displayed on the confirmation screen. In response, the processor 101 registers the payment contents as a transaction item.

[0061] (Courier service: Slip scan) If the processor 101 determines YES in ACT15 in Figure 3, in response to the customer scanning the barcode on the delivery slip with the handheld scanner 107 to specify the goods to be traded, and proceeds to ACT38 in Figure 4, it acquires the barcode information output from the handheld scanner 107 and displays an input screen for entering the delivery details to the customer. The staff member receives the package and delivery slip from the customer, enters the delivery address and scheduled date written on the delivery slip, and measures and enters the size of the package. Based on this entered delivery details and the acquired barcode information, the processor 101 registers the delivery service as a traded item.

[0062] (Courier service: Button operation) If the processor 101 determines YES in ACT15 in Figure 3 in response to the customer touching button BUB, which is associated with the courier service for specifying the goods to be traded, and proceeds to ACT38 in Figure 4 as a result, it displays a guidance screen to the customer prompting them to scan the barcode on the delivery slip. The staff member receives the package and delivery slip from the customer and has the handheld scanner 107 scan the barcode on the delivery slip. The processor 101 acquires the barcode information output from the handheld scanner 107 and then displays an input screen to the customer for entering the delivery details. The staff member receives the package and delivery slip from the customer, enters the delivery address and scheduled date written on the delivery slip, and measures and enters the size of the package. Based on the entered delivery details and the acquired barcode information, the processor 101 registers the courier service as a traded item.

[0063] Thus, based on the control program PRA, the processor 101 performs information processing to accept staff operations on the customer side in the second mode, and the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a second operation mode means. Then, based on the control program PRA, the processor 101 performs information processing to switch from the first mode to the second mode according to the specification that staff operations will be taken over on the customer side after the calling screen is cleared, or the determination result that it is a single-screen configuration, and the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a second mode switching means.

[0064] Once the staff has finished interacting with the customer, processor 101 proceeds to ACT39. As ACT39, processor 101 checks whether staff standby is required after the customer interaction by staff is complete. Note that which products require staff standby can be determined as appropriate, depending on the store's circumstances. For example, the product master or data table for managing products belonging to a specific product category can be used to distinguish whether standby is required for each product belonging to that category. As an example, it is conceivable that staff standby is required for multi-copy service, payment collection service, and courier service, while it is assumed that staff standby is not required for prepaid card and reservation sales service. In other words, for some products within the specific product category, such as multi-copy service, staff standby is required after the registration of the specific product is complete, as staff will then register other products. On the other hand, staff standby is not required when staff temporarily verify the registration of a prepaid card to deter fraudulent activity, or when a transaction is completed with only a specific product, such as with reservation sales service (i.e., when other products cannot be registered in a single transaction). Then, if the processor 101 determines that staff standby is not required, it proceeds to ACT40. As ACT40, processor 101 switches from the second mode to the first mode and then proceeds to ACT41. In this case, the staff may leave the operation of the transaction processing unit 100 to the customer and leave the transaction processing unit 100. As ACT41, processor 101 displays a first registration screen to the customer showing the transaction details modified by the staff's customer-facing operation. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state of ACT15~ACT17 in Figure 3. In other words, by having processor 101 perform information processing to switch from the second mode to the first mode in response to the completion of processing related to a specific product, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a third mode switching means.

[0065] On the other hand, if a staff member decides to perform staff operations using the staff touch panel 106, they touch button BUE on the handover destination designation screen displayed on the staff touch panel 106. Then, the processor 101 determines NO in ACT36 in Figure 4 and proceeds to ACT42. In ACT42, the processor 101 switches from the first mode to the second mode in response to the touch of button BUE. As described above, by operating the mode switching button on the business menu screen, it is possible to switch from the first mode to the second mode without changing the operation mode (i.e., without performing a mode switching operation), according to the designated recipient of the staff operation, thereby reducing the burden on the staff.

[0066] As ACT43, processor 101 accepts staff operations on the staff face. Receiving staff operations is the process of accepting staff operations on the staff face touch panel 106. Staff operations on the staff face vary depending on the specified product. Based on the control program PRA, processor 101 performs information processing to accept staff operations on the staff face in second mode, thereby enabling the computer with processor 101 as its central component to function as a second operation mode means. Then, based on the control program PRA, processor 101 performs information processing to switch from the first mode to the second mode in response to the specification that staff operations will be taken over on the staff face after the calling screen is cleared, thereby enabling the computer with processor 101 as its central component to function as a second mode switching means.

[0067] Then, after the staff has finished their operations on the staff side, processor 101 proceeds to ACT39. As ACT39, processor 101 checks, as described above, whether staff standby is required after the staff operation is completed by the staff. If staff standby is not required, processor 101 determines NO and proceeds to ACT40. As ACT40, processor 101 switches from the second mode to the first mode and then proceeds to ACT41. In this case, the staff may leave the operation of the transaction processing unit 100 to the customer and leave the transaction processing unit 100. As ACT41, processor 101 displays a first registration screen to the customer, showing the transaction details modified by staff operations. After this, processor 101 returns to the standby state of ACT15~ACT17 in Figure 3. In other words, by having processor 101 perform information processing to switch from the second mode to the first mode in response to the completion of processing related to a specific product, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a third mode switching means.

[0068] However, if processor 101 confirms that staff standby is required in ACT39, it will determine YES in ACT39 and proceed to ACT51 in Figure 5. As ACT51, processor 101 displays a second registration screen to the staff. The second registration screen is for registering trading items in response to staff operations. The second registration screen may, for example, be similar to the first registration screen. However, the second registration screen may also display information for staff or buttons for staff operations.

[0069] As ACT52, processor 101 checks whether the goods to be traded have been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT53. As ACT53, processor 101 checks whether the operating mode has been switched. If processor 101 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT54.

[0070] As ACT54, processor 101 checks if a transition to accounting has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT52. Thus, processor 101 waits for either a product to be specified, an operation mode to be switched, or a transition to accounting to be specified as ACT52~ACT54.

[0071] If there are any products that the customer has not yet registered before being called, the staff member will perform a predetermined operation on the transaction processing device 100 to specify those products. For example, the operation to specify a product may involve having the handheld scanner 107 read the barcode of an item picked up by the customer in the store. For example, the operation to specify a product may involve having the handheld scanner 107 read the barcode printed on a receipt. For example, the operation to specify a product may involve touching a button on the second registration screen that is associated with the product.

[0072] In response to the operation to specify the product as described above, processor 101 determines YES in ACT52 and proceeds to ACT55. As ACT55, processor 101 verifies whether the specified product is a specific product, for example, in the same manner as ACT18 in Figure 3.

[0073] If processor 101 cannot confirm that the specified product is a specific product, it determines NO in ACT55 in Figure 5 and proceeds to ACT56. As ACT56, processor 101 registers the specified merchandise as trading merchandise. The registration of merchandise by staff here is also performed by a second operating mode means functioning as a computer with processor 101 as its central component.

[0074] As ACT57, processor 101 updates the second registration screen to reflect the transaction details changed by the above registration. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state for ACT52-ACT54. Thus, if the staff repeatedly performs operations to specify products other than the specified products as the subject of trading, the processor 101 will repeat ACT56 and ACT57, registering those specified products as trading products.

[0075] Now, if processor 101 confirms that the specified product is a specific product, it determines YES in ACT55 and proceeds to ACT58. As ACT58, processor 101 receives staff operation requests from staff, for example, in the same manner as ACT43 in Figure 4.

[0076] As ACT59 in Figure 5, processor 101 displays a second registration screen on the staff side, showing the transaction details that have been changed by the above registration. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state of ACT52~ACT54. Once the staff member has finished registering all the products related to the customer they are assisting as transaction items, they specify the transition to checkout by performing a predetermined operation, such as touching a button on the second registration screen. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT54 and proceeds to ACT60. As ACT60, processor 101 performs accounting processing in the same manner as ACT21 in Figure 3. Once the accounting processing is complete, as ACT61, processor 101 switches from the second mode to the first mode in response to the completion operation of the accounting processing, returns to ACT14 in Figure 3, and proceeds to the next transaction. In other words, processor 101 displays the initial first registration screen to the customer and awaits customer input for another transaction for a new customer. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing to switch from the second mode to the first mode in response to the completion operation of the accounting processing, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a third mode switching means.

[0077] In this manner, the processor 101 accepts staff operations as ACT43 in response to staff operations that have been taken over from the customer from the transaction processing unit 100, and if it is set that staff standby is required, it accepts staff operations made on the staff touch panel 106 as the next operation of the transaction processing unit 100. The operation mode remains in the second mode, but for the next transaction, it switches from the second mode to the first mode.

[0078] Next, let's explain the case where the transaction processing is started in the second operating mode. When the processor 101 starts the transaction processing while the operating mode is set to the second mode, it determines NO at ACT13 in Figure 3 if the transaction processing is not started in the first operating mode (i.e., the transaction processing is started in the second operating mode). Also, when the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT15~ACT17, if the operating mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode by the mode switching process, it determines YES at ACT16. Also, when the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT52~ACT54 in Figure 5, if the operating mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode by the mode switching process, it determines YES at ACT53. In all of these cases, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT71 in Figure 6.

[0079] As ACT71, processor 101 displays a second registration screen on the staff side, showing the currently registered transaction details. Then processor 101 proceeds to ACT72.

[0080] As ACT72, processor 101 checks whether the goods to be traded have been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT73. As ACT73, processor 101 checks whether the operating mode has been switched. If processor 101 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT74.

[0081] As ACT74, processor 101 checks if a transition to accounting has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT72. Thus, processor 101 waits for either a product to be specified, an operation mode to be switched, or a transition to accounting to be specified as ACT72~ACT74.

[0082] If a customer brings in an item they have picked up from the sales floor, the staff member performs a predetermined operation on the transaction processing device 100 to designate that item as a transaction item. Alternatively, if a customer requests to purchase an item that will be handed to them by the staff member, the staff member performs a predetermined operation on the transaction processing device 100 to designate that item as a transaction item. If a customer requests to use a service that does not involve the handover of goods, the staff member performs a predetermined operation on the transaction processing device 100 to designate that service as a transaction item.

[0083] In response to the operation to specify the product as described above, processor 101 determines YES in ACT72 and proceeds to ACT75. As ACT75, processor 101 verifies whether the specified product is a specific product, for example, in the same manner as ACT18 in Figure 3.

[0084] If processor 101 cannot confirm that the specified product is a specific product, it determines NO at ACT75 in Figure 6 and proceeds to ACT76. As ACT76, processor 101 registers the specified merchandise as trading merchandise. The registration of merchandise by staff here is also performed by a second operating mode means functioning as a computer with processor 101 as its central component.

[0085] As ACT77, processor 101 updates the second registration screen, which is displayed on the customer side or staff side, to reflect the transaction details changed by the above registration. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state for ACT72-ACT74. Thus, if the staff repeatedly performs operations to specify products other than the specified products as the subject of trading, the processor 101 will repeat ACT76 and ACT77, registering those specified products as trading products.

[0086] Now, if processor 101 confirms that the specified product is a specific product, it will determine YES in ACT75 and proceed to ACT78.

[0087] As ACT78, processor 101 accepts staff surface operations by the staff, for example, in the same manner as ACT43 in Figure 4. In Figure 6, as ACT79, processor 101 displays a second registration screen on the staff side, showing the transaction details that have been changed by the above registration. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state of ACT72~ACT74.

[0088] Once the staff member has finished registering all the merchandise related to the customer they are assisting as transaction items, they specify the transition to checkout by performing a predetermined operation, such as touching a button on the second registration screen displayed on either the customer's or staff's screen. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT74 and proceeds to ACT80. As ACT80, processor 101 performs accounting processing in the same manner as ACT21 in Figure 3. Once the accounting processing is complete, processor 101 returns to ACT72 in Figure 6 and proceeds to the next transaction. In other words, processor 101 displays the initial second registration screen to the staff and awaits staff input for another transaction for a new customer.

[0089] Thus, when transaction processing is initiated in the second mode as the operating mode, the transaction is processed according to the operations performed by the staff on the customer-facing touch panel 105 or the staff-facing touch panel 106. In this case, even after the accounting processing as ACT80 is completed, the system does not switch back to the first mode, which accepts customer operations.

[0090] When processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT72 to ACT74, if the operation mode is changed to the first mode by the mode switching process, it determines YES in ACT73. In this case, processor 101 transitions to ACT14 in Figure 3. In this case, processor 101 displays the first registration screen in ACT14, which shows the currently registered transaction details.

[0091] As described above, when the transaction processing device 100 starts transaction processing in the first operating mode, if a specific product is designated by the customer as the target of registration, it executes a staff call process without transitioning to processing related to the specific product. The transaction processing device 100 then switches from the first mode to the second mode according to a predetermined process (i.e., the designation of a staff handover destination or the determination result that it is a single-screen configuration), which is different from the mode switching operation. Furthermore, after processing related to the specific product is completed, if staff waiting is not required, or if the accounting process is completed, the transaction processing device 100 switches from the second mode to the first mode and proceeds to the next transaction. This reduces the burden on the customer because they do not need to call on staff when registering specific products that require staff involvement. Also, since staff do not need to perform mode switching operations, the burden on staff is also reduced.

[0092] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows: The processor 101 may also perform a process to call a staff member, such as causing the transaction processing unit 100 to perform a notification action, for example, by emitting a staff member call sound using the sound unit 111. In this case, it is not necessary to send a request for staff member call to the staff terminal 200, nor to perform a notification action on the staff terminal 200.

[0093] After registering a specific product designated by the customer through customer-side or staff-side operation, the processor 101 may, regardless of the specific product, switch from the second mode to the first mode and entrust the subsequent product registration operations to the customer. In other words, the processor 101 may, for example, skip ACT39 in Figure 4 and proceed from ACT38 or ACT43 to ACT40.

[0094] After registering a specific product designated by the customer through customer-side or staff-side operation, the processor 101 may, regardless of the specific product, entrust subsequent product registration operations to the staff while continuing in the second mode. In other words, the processor 101 may, for example, skip ACT39 in Figure 4 and proceed from ACT38 or ACT43 to ACT51 in Figure 4.

[0095] Furthermore, the transaction processing device may be implemented with either a fixed single-screen configuration or a two-screen configuration. For example, if a single-screen configuration is adopted, the processor 101 will proceed to ACT 39 without performing ACT 34 in Figure 4. In this case, the processor 101 will switch from the first mode to the second mode in response to the operation to cancel the calling screen shown in ACT 33 in Figure 3. In other words, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component may function as a second mode switching means by having the processor 101 execute information processing to switch from the first mode to the second mode in response to the operation to cancel the calling screen, based on the control program PRA. Also, for example, if a two-screen configuration is adopted, the processor 101 will proceed to ACT 35 without performing ACT 34 in Figure 4.

[0096] Each function realized by the processor 101 through information processing can also be partially or entirely realized by hardware that performs non-program-based information processing, such as logic circuits. Furthermore, each of the above functions can also be realized by combining the above-mentioned hardware, such as logic circuits, with software control.

[0097] 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]

[0098] 1...Transaction processing system, 2...Communication network, 100...Transaction processing unit, 101...Processor, 102...Main memory unit, 103...Sub memory unit, 104...I / O unit, 105...Customer touch panel, 106...Staff touch panel, 107...Handheld scanner, 108...Payment terminal, 109...Change unit, 110...Receipt printer, 111...Sound unit, 112...Communication unit, 113...Transmission line, 200...Staff terminal.

Claims

1. A first mode switching means switches between a first mode that accepts operations by a first operator and a second mode that accepts operations by a second operator, in response to a mode switching operation, A registration means for registering a designated product in response to the designation of a product as the subject of a transaction, When transaction processing is started in the first mode as the operating mode, a calling means executes a calling process to call the second operator in response to the registration of a specific product, When the second operator is called by the calling means, a second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode in accordance with a predetermined process different from the mode switching operation, A transaction processing device equipped with the following.

2. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a third mode switching means for switching from the second mode back to the first mode in response to the completion of processing related to the specified product or the completion of accounting processing when the apparatus has been switched to the second mode.

3. The transaction processing device is equipped with a screen configuration determination means for determining whether it has a single screen configuration, The second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode according to the determination result of the screen configuration determination means that the transaction processing device has a single screen configuration. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. A first display input means and a second display input means, A handover destination designation means for specifying whether to take over the operation of the second operator at the first display input means, or to take over the operation of the second operator at the second display input means, It is equipped with, The second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode in accordance with the designation of the second operator's operation to be taken over by the handover destination designation means. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The system includes a call cancellation waiting means that waits for the call means to cancel the call process, The second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode after receiving the cancellation operation of the call process. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The computer installed in the transaction processing unit A first mode switching means switches between a first mode that accepts operations by a first operator and a second mode that accepts operations by a second operator, in response to a mode switching operation, A registration means for registering a designated product in response to the designation of a product as the subject of a transaction, When transaction processing is started in the first mode as the operating mode, a calling means executes a calling process to call the second operator in response to the registration of a specific product, When the second operator is called by the calling means, a second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode in accordance with a predetermined process different from the mode switching operation, An information processing program that enables a function to work.

7. The system comprises a transaction processing device and a terminal device electrically connected to the transaction processing device, The aforementioned transaction processing device is A first mode switching means switches between a first mode that accepts operations by a first operator and a second mode that accepts operations by a second operator, in response to a mode switching operation, A registration means for registering a designated product in response to the designation of a product as the subject of a transaction, When transaction processing is started in the first mode as the operating mode, a calling means executes a calling process to call the second operator in response to the registration of a specific product, When the second operator is called by the calling means, a second mode switching means switches from the first mode to the second mode in accordance with a predetermined process different from the mode switching operation, It is equipped with, The aforementioned terminal device is A notification means that notifies the second operator in response to a call request from the calling means for the second operator, Equipped with, Transaction processing system.

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