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

Abstract

The benefits related to pre-order transactions will be properly provided. [Solution] The transaction processing system of the embodiment comprises a reservation confirmation means, a first reward update means, and a reward output means. The reservation confirmation means confirms whether the reservation of the product is eligible for a reward. If the reservation is eligible for a reward, the first reward update means issues a reward code that identifies the reward and updates the reward status to issued. The reward output means outputs a reward voucher that proves the right to use the reward, with the reward code attached.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] When granting a privilege as a reservation event for a product or service (hereinafter collectively referred to as "merchandise"), if the privilege tickets are distributed manually, there may be cases of forgetting to hand over the privilege tickets, or the judgment as to whether the reserved merchandise is the target merchandise of the privilege, whether the reservation is an early reservation, or whether the privilege can be used will all depend on the judgment of the store staff, resulting in increased work burden and mistakes. In addition, there may be cases of unauthorized use of the remaining privilege tickets or unauthorized use where the same privilege ticket is used multiple times. Due to such circumstances, it has been desired to properly grant privileges related to reservation transactions.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document No. 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a transaction processing device, an information processing program, and a transaction processing system capable of properly granting privileges related to reservation transactions.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The transaction processing device of the embodiment comprises a reservation confirmation means, a first reward update means, and a reward output means. The reservation confirmation means confirms whether the reservation of the product is eligible for a reward. If the reservation is eligible for a reward, the first reward update means issues a reward code that identifies the reward and updates the reward status to issued. The reward output means outputs a reward voucher that proves the right to use the reward, with the reward code attached. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of a transaction processing system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a POS terminal. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store controller. [Figure 4] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the upper management server. [Figure 5] A schematic diagram representing one of the data record structures included in a reservation event table. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram representing one of the structures of data records included in an inventory management table. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram representing one of the structures of data records included in a reservation management table. [Figure 8] A sequence diagram for reservation acceptance. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of a reservation slip. [Figure 10] Sequence diagram for issuing bonus items upon delivery of reserved merchandise. [Figure 11] Sequence diagram for reissuing rewards due to communication errors. [Figure 12] Sequence diagram of transaction processing involving the use of special offers. [Figure 13] Sequence diagram of the cancellation of benefits due to transaction cancellation. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] An example of an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the transaction processing system 1 according to this embodiment. Transaction processing system 1 is an information processing system for processing transactions, including reserved transactions. Transaction processing system 1 includes a POS (point-of-sale) terminal 100, a store controller 200, a headquarters server 300, and a higher-level management server 400. Transaction processing system 1 is configured so that these POS terminal 100, store controller 200, headquarters server 300, and higher-level management server 400 can communicate with each other via a communication network 2.

[0008] Note that multiple POS terminals 100, store controllers 200, headquarters server 300, and higher-level management server 400 may be included in the transaction processing system 1. For example, the headquarters server 300 and the higher-level management server 400 are operated by the headquarters of a company that manages multiple chain stores. Multiple POS terminals 100 are provided at each of the multiple chain stores. Also, one store controller 200 is provided at each of the multiple chain stores. In this case, multiple POS terminals 100 and multiple store controllers 200, along with one headquarters server 300 and one higher-level management server 400, are included in the transaction processing system 1. However, for the sake of simplicity in the following explanation, we will assume that there is only one POS terminal 100, store controller 200, headquarters server 300, and higher-level management server 400.

[0009] 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. As an example, communication network 2 can be used by combining a LAN and the internet.

[0010] The POS terminal 100 is an information processing device that performs processes such as registering the details of merchandise sales and purchases in a store and settling payments. That is, the POS terminal 100 is an example of a transaction processing device. The store controller 200 manages the transactions processed by the POS terminal 100. The head office server 300 is an information processing device for managing reservation events to be implemented in the store where the POS terminal 100 is installed. A reservation event is, for example, an event related to a reservation transaction such as issuing a shopping coupon as a privilege at the time of delivery of merchandise when an early reservation is made for a merchandise item such as a Christmas cake. Note that a "shopping coupon" is a money coupon that can be used at a specific store or shopping mall. The shopping coupon may also be an electronic money coupon displayed on a mobile communication terminal. The shopping coupon is an example of a privilege ticket. The upper management server 400 is an information processing device for managing the inventory of merchandise items subject to reservation and the privileges granted as reservation events.

[0011] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 100. The POS terminal 100 includes a processor 101, a main storage unit 102, a sub-storage unit 103, an input unit 104, a display unit 105, a sound unit 106, a handy scanner 108, a currency receiving unit 109, a settlement unit 110, a printer 111, a communication unit 112, a transmission path 113, and the like. The POS terminal 100 may also include a fixed scanner 107.

[0012] By connecting the processor 101, the main storage unit 102, and the sub-storage unit 103 via the transmission path 113, a computer for performing information processing for controlling the POS terminal 100 is configured. The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the above computer. The processor 101 executes information processing for controlling each unit in order to realize various functions as the POS terminal 100 according to information processing programs such as an operating system and application programs.

[0013] The main memory unit 102 corresponds to the main memory part 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 information processing program in the read-only memory area. Also, the main memory unit 102 may store the data necessary for the processor 101 to execute the 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.

[0014] The sub-memory unit 103 corresponds to the auxiliary memory part 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 the data used by the processor 101 to perform various processes and the data generated by the processes in the processor 101. The sub-memory unit 103 may store an information processing program. In this embodiment, the sub-memory unit 103 stores a transaction processing program PRA which is one of the information processing programs. The transaction processing program PRA is an application program that describes the procedure of the processes described later by the processor 101.

[0015] The input unit 104 inputs various instructions by the operator. As the input unit 104, well-known input devices such as a touch sensor, a key switch, and a keyboard can be used alone or in combination. The input device included in the input unit 104 is, for example, a touch sensor provided on a touch panel.

[0016] The display unit 105 performs various display operations to notify the operator of various information. The display unit 105 can use well-known display devices, such as liquid crystal displays and light-emitting devices such as LED lamps, either individually or in combination. One of the display devices included in the display unit 105 is, for example, a display device provided on a touch panel. The sound unit 106 outputs sounds for various announcements and alarms. The sound unit 106 can use various well-known sound devices, such as a speech synthesis device and a buzzer, either individually or in combination.

[0017] The fixed scanner 107 has a reading window facing the operator. The fixed scanner 107 captures an image of the product held in front of the reading window and recognizes the barcode information represented by the barcode through image processing. The fixed scanner 107 then outputs the barcode information to the processor 101. The fixed scanner 107 can also utilize other types of well-known devices that optically read barcodes using the reflection of laser light. Furthermore, the fixed scanner 107 can also utilize a type of well-known device that has the function of identifying products using object recognition technology from the image of the product itself obtained by capturing the product. The handheld scanner 108 is used by the operator and optically reads the barcode placed opposite the reader. The handheld scanner 108 outputs the barcode information represented by the read barcode to the processor 101.

[0018] The currency receiving unit 109 counts the value of coins inserted through the coin slot and stores them in an internal storage compartment. The currency receiving unit 109 then discharges the coins stored in the storage compartment to a coin tray via a coin discharge port. The currency receiving unit 109 also counts the value of banknotes inserted through the banknote slot and stores them in an internal storage compartment. The currency receiving 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.

[0019] The payment unit 110 reads data recorded on payment cards such as credit cards, prepaid cards, and electronic money cards. The payment unit 110 also writes data to payment cards. The payment unit 110 is equipped with reading devices that correspond to IC (integrated circuit) reading, magnetic reading, and proximity communication reading of credit cards. The reading device for IC reading reads data stored in the IC provided on the credit card through communication via electrical contacts. The reading device for magnetic reading reads data magnetically recorded on the magnetic stripe formed on the surface of the credit card using a magnetic head. The reading device for proximity communication reading reads data stored in the IC provided on the credit card through wireless communication such as NFC (near field communication).

[0020] Printer 111 prints images of transaction documents such as receipts, invoices, or sales slips onto receipt paper. Printer 111 also prints images of reward slips such as shopping vouchers and coupons. Printer 111 ejects the receipt paper with the printed images from the receipt output slot to the outside.

[0021] The communication unit 112 performs communication processing for data communication via the communication network 2. The communication unit 112 can use, for example, an existing communication device for a LAN. 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.

[0022] For the hardware of the POS terminal 100, for example, the hardware of an existing POS terminal of the same type can be used. Generally, the transfer of the POS terminal 100 is carried out with the transaction processing program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 103. However, the hardware may be transferred separately from the transaction processing program PRA, either without the transaction processing program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 103, or with a different version of the same type of application program stored in the sub-storage unit 103. Furthermore, the POS terminal 100 may be configured by writing the transaction processing program PRA to the sub-storage unit 103 in response to an operation by any worker. The transfer of the transaction processing program PRA can be carried out by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network. Furthermore, a portion of the storage area of ​​the sub-storage unit 103 is used to store the product master table MAA, the transaction management table TTA, and the reservation event table TAB. The product master table MAA is a data table for managing product information. The product master table MAA contains data records associated with each product. The data records in the product master table MAA include fields such as product code, product name, tax rate category, and product price. The transaction management table TTA is a data table for managing transaction information. The transaction management table TTA contains data records associated with each transaction. The data records in the transaction management table TTA include fields such as transaction code, product code, product name, product price, purchase quantity, and payment amount. The reservation event table TAB is a data table for managing reservation events. The reservation event table TAB will be described later.

[0023] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store controller 200. The store controller 200 includes a processor 201, a main storage unit 202, a sub-storage unit 203, a communication unit 204, and a transmission line 205, among other things. The general functions of the processor 201, main memory unit 202, sub-memory unit 203, communication unit 204, and transmission line 205 are equivalent to those of the processor 101, main memory unit 102, sub-memory unit 103, communication unit 112, and transmission line 113.

[0024] However, the sub-storage unit 203 stores the transaction management program PRB instead of the transaction processing program PRA. The transaction management program PRB is an application program that describes the procedures for information processing by the processor 201 for managing transactions processed by the POS terminal 100. In addition, a portion of the storage area of ​​the sub-storage unit 203 is used to store the journal database DBA. The journal database DBA is a database that collects data for managing transactions processed by the POS terminal 100.

[0025] The hardware for the store controller 200 can, for example, be the hardware of an existing general-purpose server device. Generally, the transfer of the store controller 200 is performed with the transaction management program PRB stored in the sub-storage unit 203. However, the hardware may be transferred with the transaction management program PRB not stored in the sub-storage unit 203, or with a different version of the same application program stored in the sub-storage unit 203, along with the transaction management program PRB. Furthermore, the store controller 200 may be configured by writing the transaction management program PRB to the sub-storage unit 203 in response to an operation by any worker. The transfer of the transaction management program PRB can be performed by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network.

[0026] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the upper management server 400. The higher-level management server 400 includes a processor 401, a main memory unit 402, a sub-memory unit 403, a communication unit 404, and a transmission line 405, among other things. The general functions of the processor 401, main memory unit 402, sub-memory unit 403, communication unit 404, and transmission line 405 are equivalent to those of the processor 101, main memory unit 102, sub-memory unit 103, communication unit 112, and transmission line 113.

[0027] However, the sub-storage unit 403 stores the reservation management program PRC instead of the transaction processing program PRA. The reservation management program PRC is an application program that describes the procedure for the processing performed by the processor 401, as described below. In addition, a portion of the storage area of ​​the sub-storage unit 403 is used to store the reservation event table TAB, the inventory management table TAC, and the reservation management table TAD. The reservation event table TAB is the same as the one stored in the sub-storage unit 103 of the POS terminal 100. The inventory management table TAC is a data table for managing the inventory of the goods to be reserved. The reservation management table TAD is a data table for managing the reservations received and the benefits associated with those reservations.

[0028] The hardware for the upper management server 400 can be, for example, the hardware of an existing general-purpose server device. The transfer of the upper management server 400 is generally carried out with the reservation management program PRC stored in the sub-storage unit 403. However, the hardware may be transferred with the reservation management program PRC not stored in the sub-storage unit 403, or with a different version of the same type of application program stored in the sub-storage unit 403, and the reservation management program PRC may be transferred separately. Furthermore, the upper management server 400 may be configured by writing the reservation management program PRC to the sub-storage unit 403 in response to an operation by any worker. The transfer of the reservation management program PRC can be carried out by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network. The upper management server 400 may also be composed of two server devices: a reservation management server that manages reservations for merchandise, and a benefits management server that manages benefits.

[0029] Figure 5 schematically represents one structure of a data record REA contained in the reservation event table TAB. The reservation event table TAB contains data records REA associated with each reservation event. Therefore, the reservation event table TAB contains the same number of data records REA as the number of reservation events to be managed. However, if there are no reservation events to be managed by the higher-level management server 400, the reservation event table TAB may contain no data records REA at all.

[0030] The data record REA includes fields FAA, FAB, FAC, and FAD. Field FAA contains a reservation event code to distinguish the reservation event from other reservation events. Field FAB contains a product code to distinguish the product subject to the reservation event from other products. Field FAC contains reservation acceptance period data, which is the period during which reservations for the product can be accepted. Field FAD contains early reservation acceptance period data, which is the period during which early reservations for the product can be accepted. Note that the data record REA may contain any fields other than these fields.

[0031] The reservation event table TAB is distributed from the headquarters server 300 to the POS terminal 100 via the store controller 200, for example, when a new reservation event is scheduled. Similarly, the reservation event table TAB is also distributed to the higher-level management server 400.

[0032] Figure 6 schematically represents one structure of a data record REB included in the inventory management table TAC. The inventory management table TAC contains data records REB associated with each reserved item. Therefore, the inventory management table TAC contains the same number of data records REB as there are reserved items. If there are no reserved items, the inventory management table TAC contains no data records REB.

[0033] The data record REB includes the fields FBA and FBB. The FBA field contains the product code used to distinguish the reserved product from other products. The FBB field contains the inventory quantity data for the reserved product. Note that the data record REB may contain any fields other than these fields.

[0034] Figure 7 schematically represents one structure of a data record REC included in the reservation management table TAD. The reservation management table TAD contains data records REC associated with each accepted reservation. Therefore, the reservation management table TAD contains the same number of data records REC as the number of accepted reservations. If no reservations have been accepted, the reservation management table TAD may contain no data records REC at all.

[0035] The data record REC includes fields FCA, FCB, FCC, FCD, FCE, FCF, FCG, and FCH. Field FCA contains a reservation code to distinguish the accepted reservation from other reservations. Field FCB contains a product code to distinguish the reserved product from other products. Field FCC contains the reservation acceptance date. Field FCD contains the product pickup date when the customer receives the reserved product. Field FCE contains the product pickup time when the customer receives the reserved product. Field FCF contains the reserved quantity of the product. Field FCG contains a reward code to distinguish the reward granted in accordance with the reservation event from other rewards. Field FCH contains reward status data representing the status of the reward. The reward status data represents the status such as issued, reissued, used, and reusable. Note that the data record REC may contain fields other than these fields.

[0036] Next, we will explain the operation of the transaction processing system 1 configured as described above. This section explains the process related to accepting reservations and the process related to issuing benefits upon delivery of reserved goods. In the following explanation, the processing by the processor 101 of the POS terminal 100 is based on the transaction processing program PRA. The processing by the processor 201 of the store controller 200 is based on the transaction management program PRB. The processing by the processor 401 of the upper management server 400 is based on the reservation management program PRC.

[0037] [Reservations accepted] Figure 8 is a sequence diagram of the reservation process. When a customer reserves a product, they inform the store clerk operating the POS terminal 100 that they wish to reserve the product. In response, the clerk operates the POS terminal 100 to register the reservation details in the transaction management table TTA. If the POS terminal 100 is a self-checkout system, the customer may also operate the POS terminal 100 themselves to register the reservation details in the transaction management table TTA.

[0038] As ACT101, processor 101 displays the reservation registration screen on display unit 105. The reservation registration screen is a screen for registering reservation details. For example, processor 101 generates a reservation registration screen for registering reservation details such as the reservation event, the name of the product to be reserved, the date of receipt of the reserved product, the time of receipt, and the quantity of the reservation, based on the reservation event table TAB and the product master MAA.

[0039] When a store employee determines that a product reservation meets the conditions for a reservation event, they inform the customer of the details of the reservation event displayed on the reservation registration screen, and then ask the customer for reservation details such as the date, time, and quantity of the reserved product to be picked up, and specify the reservation details on the reservation registration screen. If the POS terminal 100 is a self-checkout, the customer may specify the reservation details themselves on the reservation registration screen. In response, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 102. As ACT102, processor 101 requests the higher-level management server 400 to accept the specified reservation. For example, processor 101 generates reservation acceptance request data, including data representing the specified reservation details, to request the acceptance of the reservation. Then, processor 101 has the communication unit 112 send the reservation acceptance request data to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2. When this reservation request data is transmitted to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 404, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT401.

[0040] As ACT401, processor 401 performs a reservation confirmation process to determine whether it is possible to accept a reservation for the product represented by the product code included in the reservation request data. For example, processor 401 checks whether the product to be reserved is in stock based on the inventory management table TAC (checks whether it is in stock on the higher management server 400). For example, processor 401 searches the inventory management table TAC based on the product code included in the reservation request data and checks whether the reservation quantity included in the reservation request data exceeds the number of items in stock associated with the product code in the inventory management table TAC. If processor 401 confirms that the product to be reserved is in stock, it responds to POS terminal 100 as ACT402 indicating that the reservation can be accepted. On the other hand, if processor 401 confirms that the product to be reserved is out of stock, it responds to POS terminal 100 indicating that the reservation cannot be accepted. For example, processor 401 generates reservation acceptance response data indicating whether the reservation can be accepted, including data representing the reservation details. The processor 401 then sends the reservation acceptance response data from the communication unit 404 to the communication network 2, destined for the POS terminal 100. When the reservation acceptance response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 112, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 103.

[0041] As ACT103, processor 101 displays a reservation confirmation screen on display unit 105 indicating whether the reservation can be accepted. If the reservation can be accepted, a reservation confirmation button appears on the reservation confirmation screen to confirm the reservation with the specified reservation details. If the reservation cannot be accepted, the reservation confirmation screen indicates that the reservation cannot be accepted. The store clerk confirms the reservation by touching the reservation confirmation button on the reservation confirmation screen. If the POS terminal 100 is a self-checkout, the customer may confirm the reservation themselves. In response to the reservation confirmation operation, processor 101 proceeds to ACT104.

[0042] As ACT104, processor 101 requests the higher-level management server 400 to confirm the reservation acceptance. For example, processor 101 causes communication unit 112 to send reservation acceptance confirmation request data to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2 to request confirmation of the reservation acceptance with the specified reservation details. When the reservation confirmation request data is transmitted to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 404, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 403.

[0043] In ACT403, processor 401 performs a reservation confirmation process to confirm the reservation with the specified reservation details. For example, processor 401 subtracts the reserved quantity of the product from the inventory quantity in the inventory management table TAC and updates the inventory quantity data in the inventory management table TAC. If the inventory quantity data update process is completed successfully, processor 401 issues a reservation code and adds the reservation code and the reservation details associated with the reservation code to the reservation management table TAD.

[0044] As ACT404, processor 401 sends a reservation confirmation response to POS terminal 100 to notify it that the reservation has been accepted. For example, processor 401 causes communication unit 404 to send reservation confirmation response data, including the reservation code, to communication network 2, addressed to POS terminal 100. When the reservation confirmation response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 112, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 105. As ACT105, processor 101 accepts the operation to close the reservation acceptance. Then processor 101 proceeds to ACT106. Note that on the reservation acceptance registration screen, it is possible to register the details of multiple reservations, including the cancellation of accepted reservations. As ACT106, processor 101 issues a receipt when it receives an operation to close the reservation acceptance. For example, processor 101 prints a transaction receipt and a reservation slip to printer 111. The reservation slip is a receipt that proves that the reservation for the product has been accepted. The reservation slip includes a barcode representing the reservation code. There is also a customer copy and a store copy of the reservation slip. The reservation slip may also be an electronic reservation slip displayed on the customer's mobile communication terminal.

[0045] Figure 9 shows an example of a reservation slip (customer copy). In Figure 9, all numbers are replaced with "9". Also, product names are represented as "xxxxxxxxxxxx". In the reservation slip shown in Figure 9, the reservation details are represented by a string of characters. In contrast, the reservation slip shown in Figure 11 represents a barcode (BCA) that includes the reservation code.

[0046] The store clerk hands the customer a transaction receipt and reservation slip issued by POS terminal 100. Thus, based on the transaction processing program PRA, the processor 101 performs information processing to output a reservation slip, and the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a reservation slip output means.

[0047] In Figure 8, the processor 101, as ACT107, generates transaction data representing the reservation acceptance details and sends it to the communication network 2 via the communication unit 112, addressed to the store controller 200. When this transaction data is transmitted to the store controller 200 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 204, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT201. As ACT201, processor 201 updates the journal database DBA to manage the details of the reservation based on the transaction data.

[0048] [Issuance of special benefits upon delivery of reserved products] Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing the issuance of bonus items upon delivery of reserved merchandise. To receive their reserved merchandise, the customer brings their reservation slip (customer copy) to the store, presents it to a store employee, and requests the merchandise. The employee takes the reservation slip from the customer and picks the reserved merchandise from the store's back room. The employee then holds the barcode shown on the reservation slip presented by the customer over the reading window of the fixed scanner 107 or the reading port of the handheld scanner 108. In response, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 111 in Figure 12.

[0049] As ACT111, processor 101 obtains the reservation code. For example, processor 101 extracts the reservation code contained in the barcode read by a fixed scanner 107 or a handheld scanner 108. Alternatively, processor 101 may obtain the reservation code by another method, such as receiving the reservation code manually entered by a store clerk through the operation of the input unit 104. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing to obtain the reservation code based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a reservation code acquisition means for obtaining the reservation code as a reservation identifier.

[0050] As ACT112, processor 101 queries the higher-level management server 400 about the reservation identified by the acquired reservation code. For example, processor 101 generates reservation query data for the reservation inquiry, including the acquired reservation code. Then, processor 101 sends the reservation query data from communication unit 112 to communication network 2 addressed to the higher-level management server 400. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing to query for reservations based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a reservation query means. When this reservation inquiry data is transmitted to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 404, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 411.

[0051] As ACT411, processor 401 performs a reservation confirmation process to check whether a reservation is eligible for a benefit based on the reservation code included in the reservation inquiry data. For example, processor 401 searches the reservation management table TAD based on the reservation code included in the reservation inquiry data to identify the reservation, and also searches the reservation event table TAB based on the product code and reservation acceptance date associated with the reservation code to check whether the reservation acceptance date falls within the early reservation acceptance period. If a product reservation is eligible for a reward, processor 401 performs a reward issuance process as ACT412, updating the reward status to issued. For example, if the reservation acceptance date falls within the early reservation period, processor 401 issues a reward code, links the reward code to the reservation code and adds it to the reservation management table TAD, and updates the reward status data associated with the reward code to issued. Thus, by executing information processing based on the reservation management program PRC, processor 401 issues a reward code and updates the reward status to issued, and the computer with processor 401 as its central component functions as the first reward update means. On the other hand, if the reservation date falls outside the early reservation period, processor 401 will not issue a bonus code. Then processor 401 proceeds to ACT413.

[0052] As ACT413, processor 401 generates reservation inquiry response data, including reservation confirmation data (such as product code and reservation quantity), to respond to reservation inquiries and sends it to POS terminal 100. If a special offer is issued, processor 401 also generates reservation inquiry response data including the special offer code. Then, processor 401 sends the generated reservation inquiry response data to communication network 2 via communication unit 404, destined for POS terminal 100. When this reservation inquiry response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 112, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 113.

[0053] As ACT113, processor 101 registers the sales details of the reserved product in the transaction management table TTA based on the product code and reservation quantity included in the reservation inquiry response data. As ACT114, processor 101 performs a settlement process to settle the payment for the goods. This settlement process may be the same as the process performed in an existing POS terminal. Then, as ACT115, processor 101 accepts the operation to close the transaction. When the system receives an operation to close a transaction, processor 101 issues a certificate as ACT116. For example, processor 101 prints a transaction receipt to printer 111. Also, if the reservation inquiry response data contains a reward code, processor 101 prints a reward voucher to printer 111. The reward voucher is a certificate that proves the right to use the reward. The reward voucher has a barcode attached to it that represents the reward code that identifies the reward from other rewards. Note that the reward voucher may also be an electronic reward voucher displayed on the customer's mobile communication terminal.

[0054] Thus, based on the transaction processing program PRA, the processor 101 performs information processing to output a benefit voucher that certifies the right to use the benefit, with a benefit code added. As a result, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a benefit output means. The store clerk hands the reserved items, transaction receipt, and reward voucher to the customer.

[0055] As ACT117, the processor 101 generates transaction data representing the sales details of the reserved product and sends it to the store controller 200 via the communication unit 112 to the communication network 2. When this transaction data is transmitted to the store controller 200 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 204, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT211. As ACT211, processor 201 updates the journal database DBA to manage the sales transaction for the reserved product based on the transaction data.

[0056] [Reissuance of rewards due to communication errors] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram of reward reissuance due to a communication error. If a communication error occurs between the POS terminal 100 and the higher-level management server 400 when the reserved product is handed over, it is possible to reissue the reward as a reward reissuance operation, separate from the sales transaction of the reserved product. When the processor 101 at the POS terminal 100 makes a reservation query as ACT112 in Figure 11, if a communication error occurs between the POS terminal 100 and the higher-level management server 400, the POS terminal 100 will not be able to receive the reservation query response data for responding to this reservation query. In such cases, as ACT121, processor 101 displays a communication error notification screen to notify the customer of a communication error if, for example, a predetermined waiting time has elapsed since the reservation inquiry was made. After the communication error is resolved (for example, after a few minutes or hours), the store clerk operates POS terminal 100 to display the reward reissuance screen. The store clerk takes the reservation slip (customer copy) back from the customer and holds the barcode BCA on the reservation slip over the fixed scanner 107 or handheld scanner 108. Then processor 101 proceeds to ACT122 in Figure 11.

[0057] As ACT122, processor 101 obtains the reservation code, similar to ACT111. For example, processor 101 extracts the reservation code contained in the barcode read by the fixed scanner 107 or the handheld scanner 108. Alternatively, processor 101 may obtain the reservation code by another method, such as receiving the reservation code manually entered by a store employee through the operation of the input unit 104.

[0058] As ACT123, processor 101 requests the higher-level management server 400 to reissue the benefit for the reservation identified by the acquired reservation code. For example, processor 101 generates benefit reissue request data for the reissue of the benefit, including the acquired reservation code. Then, processor 101 has the communication unit 112 send the benefit reissue request data to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2. When the reward reissuance request data is transmitted to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 404, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT421.

[0059] As ACT421, processor 401 performs a reservation confirmation process to verify whether the reservation is eligible for a benefit based on the reservation code included in the benefit reissue request data. For example, processor 401 searches the reservation management table TAD based on the reservation code included in the reservation reissue request data to identify the reservation, and also searches the reservation event table TAB based on the product code and reservation acceptance date associated with the reservation code to check whether the reservation acceptance date falls within the early reservation acceptance period. If a product reservation is eligible for a reward, processor 401 performs a reward reissue process as ACT422, updating the reward status to "reissued". For example, if the reservation acceptance date falls within the early reservation period, processor 401 reissues the reward code, links the reward code to the reservation code, adds it to the reservation management table TAD, and updates the reward status data associated with the reward code to "reissued". Thus, by processor 401 executing information processing to reissue the reward code and update the reward status to "reissued" based on the reservation management program PRC, the computer with processor 401 as its central component functions as a second reward update means. On the other hand, if the reservation date falls outside the early reservation period, Processor 401 will not reissue the bonus code. Then Processor 401 proceeds to ACT423.

[0060] As ACT423, processor 401 generates reward reissue response data, including reservation confirmation data (product code and reservation quantity), to respond to a reward reissue request, and sends it to POS terminal 100. If the reward is reissued, processor 401 also generates reward reissue response data including the reward code. Then, processor 401 sends the generated reward reissue response data to communication network 2 via communication unit 404, destined for POS terminal 100. When this reward reissuance response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 112, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 124.

[0061] As ACT124, processor 101 causes printer 111 to print the reward ticket. For example, processor 101 adds a barcode to the reward ticket that represents the reward code included in the reward reissue response data. The store clerk hands the customer the special offer ticket. Thus, even if the POS terminal 100 cannot communicate with the higher-level management server 400 at the time of handover of the reserved product, the product can be handed over on the spot. After the communication error is resolved, the reward voucher can be handed over to the customer.

[0062] [Using the benefits] As described above, customers can use the voucher they received in subsequent transactions. When making a transaction separate from the aforementioned pre-order, the customer presents the voucher to the store clerk and requests its use. Figure 12 is a sequence diagram of a transaction involving the use of a reward. As ACT131, the processor 101 of the POS terminal 100 performs a sales registration process to register the details of the sale of the merchandise in the transaction management table TTA. This sales registration process may be the same as that performed in existing POS terminals. The store clerk then receives the reward slip (customer copy) from the customer at any time before proceeding to the payment process. The store clerk holds the barcode shown on the reward slip presented by the customer over the reading window of the fixed scanner 107 or the reading slot of the handheld scanner 108. Alternatively, the store clerk may manually enter the reward code shown on the reward slip by operating the input unit 104.

[0063] As ACT132, processor 101 obtains the reward code. For example, processor 101 extracts the reward code contained in the barcode read by a fixed scanner 107 or a handheld scanner 108. Alternatively, processor 101 may obtain the reward code by another method, such as receiving the reward code from input unit 104, which is manually entered by a store employee through the operation of input unit 104.

[0064] As ACT133, processor 101 requests the higher-level management server 400 to allow the use of the benefit identified by the acquired benefit code. For example, processor 101 generates benefit usage request data, including the acquired benefit code, to request the use of the benefit. Then, processor 101 has communication unit 112 send the benefit usage request data to communication network 2 addressed to the higher-level management server 400. If multiple benefit tickets are used, processor 101 sends benefit usage request data to the higher-level management server 400 for each benefit ticket. When this benefit usage request data is transmitted to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 404, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 431.

[0065] As ACT431, processor 401 checks whether the benefit identified by the benefit code included in the benefit redemption request data has been issued. For example, processor 401 searches the reservation management table TAD based on the benefit code included in the benefit redemption request data and checks whether the benefit status data is issued or reissued. If processor 401 confirms that the benefit has been issued, it proceeds to ACT432. If a reward has been issued, processor 401 updates the reward status data to "used" as ACT432. Thus, by having processor 401 perform information processing to update the reward status to "used" when a reward ticket is used, based on the reservation management program PRC, the computer with processor 401 as its central component functions as a third reward update means.

[0066] If the processor 401 confirms that a reward has been issued, it responds to the POS terminal 100 as ACT433 indicating that the reward can be used. On the other hand, if the processor 401 confirms that a reward has not been issued, it responds to the POS terminal 100 as ACT433 indicating that the reward cannot be used. For example, the processor 401 generates reward usage response data, including the reward code, in response to the reward usage request data. The processor 401 then sends the reward usage response data from the communication unit 404 to the communication network 2 addressed to the POS terminal 100. When this reward usage response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 112, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 134. As ACT134, processor 101 performs a benefit usage registration process to register the use of the benefit in the transaction management table TTA, based on the benefit code included in the benefit usage response data. Then processor 101 proceeds to ACT135.

[0067] As ACT135, processor 101 performs a settlement process to settle the price determined according to the sales details of the product registered in ACT131 and the use of the reward voucher registered in ACT134. In other words, for example, if the price according to the sales details of the product is "1000 yen" and the reward voucher represents a "100 yen discount", processor 101 will perform a settlement process with a settlement amount of "900 yen". Thus, the customer will use the reward corresponding to the reward voucher.

[0068] Then, as ACT136, processor 101 accepts the operation to close the transaction. When the processor 101 receives an operation to close a transaction, it issues a receipt as ACT137. For example, the processor 101 causes the printer 111 to print a transaction receipt.

[0069] As ACT138, the processor 101 generates transaction data representing the sales details of the merchandise and the usage details of the benefits, and sends it to the store controller 200 via the communication unit 112 to the communication network 2. Once this transaction data is transmitted to the store controller 200 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 204, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT221.

[0070] As ACT221, processor 201 updates the journal database DBA to manage the sales details and usage details of the benefits for the current product based on transaction data.

[0071] [Cancellation of benefits due to transaction cancellation] Figure 13 is a sequence diagram showing the cancellation of benefits due to the cancellation of a transaction. If a transaction involving the use of a special offer as shown in Figure 12 needs to be canceled, the store clerk operates the POS terminal 100 to display the transaction error correction screen. The clerk takes the transaction receipt from the customer and manually enters the POS terminal code and transaction code shown on the receipt into the error correction screen. The processor 101 then proceeds to ACT141 in Figure 13.

[0072] As ACT141, processor 101 obtains a transaction code as a transaction identifier. Processor 101 receives the POS terminal code and transaction code from input unit 104, for example, which are manually entered by a store employee through the operation of input unit 104. Alternatively, processor 101 may extract the POS terminal code and transaction code contained in the barcode read from the transaction receipt by a fixed scanner 107 or a handheld scanner 108.

[0073] As ACT142, processor 101 requests the store controller 200 to recall the transaction. For example, processor 101 generates transaction recall request data, including the acquired transaction code, to request the recall of the transaction. Then, processor 101 has the communication unit 112 send this transaction recall request data to the store controller 200 via the communication network 2. Alternatively, processor 101 may send the transaction recall request data to other POS terminals 100 based on the POS terminal code. When this transaction recall request data is transmitted to the store controller 200 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 204, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT231.

[0074] As ACT231, processor 201 responds to a transaction recall request by sending transaction data identified by the transaction code included in the transaction recall request data to POS terminal 100. For example, processor 201 retrieves transaction data identified by the transaction code included in the transaction recall request data from journal database DBA. The transaction data retrieved from journal database DBA includes a benefit code associated with the transaction code. Processor 201 then generates transaction recall response data, including the transaction data, to respond to the transaction recall. Processor 201 sends this generated transaction recall response data from communication unit 204 to communication network 2, destined for POS terminal 100. When this transaction call-back response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 112, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 143. As ACT143, processor 101 displays the transaction details included in the transaction call response data. Then, as ACT144, processor 101 performs a refund process to refund the amount that has already been settled in this transaction. When the store clerk performs the operation to close the transaction cancellation, the processor 101, as ACT145, accepts the operation to close the transaction cancellation. When the processor 101 receives an operation to close the transaction cancellation, it issues a certificate as ACT146. For example, the processor 101 causes the printer 111 to print a cancellation receipt. The store clerk then retrieves the merchandise sold in the canceled transaction from the customer and returns the customer's copy of the reward voucher along with the cancellation receipt.

[0075] As ACT147, processor 101 requests the higher-level management server 400 to cancel the use of the benefit used in the transaction. For example, processor 101 generates benefit cancellation request data to request the cancellation of this benefit, including the benefit code that was included in the transaction call response data. Then, processor 101 has the communication unit 112 send the generated benefit cancellation request data to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2. When this request to cancel the use of the benefit is transmitted to the higher-level management server 400 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 404, the processor 401 proceeds to ACT 441.

[0076] As ACT441, processor 401 performs a benefit cancellation process to cancel the use of a benefit in response to a benefit cancellation request. For example, processor 401 searches the reservation management table TAD based on the benefit code included in the benefit cancellation request data and updates the benefit status data associated with the benefit code to "reusable". Thus, when a transaction using a benefit voucher is canceled based on the reservation management program PRC, processor 401 performs information processing to update the benefit status to "reusable," and the computer with processor 401 as its central component functions as a fourth benefit update means.

[0077] As ACT442, processor 401 sends a benefit cancellation response to POS terminal 100 to indicate that it has completed the cancellation of the benefit in response to the benefit cancellation request. For example, processor 401 causes communication unit 404 to send benefit cancellation response data to communication network 2 to POS terminal 100 to indicate that the cancellation of the benefit has been completed. When this reward cancellation response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 112, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 148.

[0078] As ACT148, the processor 101 generates transaction data representing the details of the transaction cancellation and sends it to the store controller 200 via the communication unit 112 to the communication network 2. Once this transaction data is transmitted to the store controller 200 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 204, the processor 201 proceeds to ACT232.

[0079] As ACT232, processor 201 updates the journal database DBA to manage transaction cancellations based on transaction data. Thus, the cancellation of the transaction also cancels the use of the benefit, and the benefit voucher is managed as reusable. The customer can then reuse the benefit voucher in another transaction.

[0080] As described above, the transaction processing system 1 checks whether the reservation of a product is eligible for a benefit, and if the reservation is eligible for a benefit, it issues a benefit code to identify the benefit, updates the benefit status to issued, and outputs a benefit voucher that proves the right to use the benefit, with the benefit code attached. This prevents forgetting to hand out benefit vouchers, and automates the determination of whether the reserved product is eligible for a benefit, whether the reservation is an early reservation, and whether the benefit can be used, thereby reducing the workload and preventing errors for store staff. Furthermore, if the transaction processing system 1 is unable to output the reward voucher due to a communication error, it will reissue the reward code and update the reward status to "reissued" separately from the sales transaction of the reserved product. This prevents the reward voucher from being forgotten even if a communication error occurs. Furthermore, when a transaction is conducted using a reward voucher, the transaction processing system 1 updates the reward status to "used." This prevents the fraudulent use of remaining reward vouchers and the multiple use of the same reward voucher. Furthermore, if a transaction using a reward voucher is canceled, the transaction processing system 1 updates the reward status to "reusable." This improves convenience for customers using reward vouchers. Based on the above, it is possible to properly grant benefits related to reservation transactions.

[0081] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows: Transaction processing system 1 is not limited to the buying and selling of goods. For example, it can also process transactions for services that do not involve the exchange of goods, such as accommodation services. For instance, if it processes transactions for accommodation services, it could be set up so that a perk is issued at check-in at the accommodation facility.

[0082] Instead of printing the reward voucher, the reward voucher may be displayed on any information terminal used by the customer. For example, if the processor 101 of the POS terminal 100 sends electronic receipt data to an electronic receipt server instead of printing a receipt, it will send the reward data along with the electronic receipt data to the electronic receipt server. In other words, the processor 101 outputs the reward data by sending the reward data to the electronic receipt server. In this case, the electronic receipt server will then display the reward voucher on any information terminal used by the customer in response to a request from that terminal.

[0083] Instead of printing the reward voucher, the processor 101 of the POS terminal 100 may transmit the reward data to any information terminal used by the customer via NFC communication or the like.

[0084] Some of the processing performed by the POS terminal 100 may be performed by the store controller 200, headquarters server 300, higher-level management server 400, or any other information processing device. For example, the higher-level management server 400 may generate the image of the reward slip, and the POS terminal 100 may print the reward slip according to instructions from the higher-level management server 400.

[0085] Some of the processing performed by the higher-level management server 400 may be performed by the POS terminal 100, store controller 200, headquarters server 300, or any other information processing device. For example, all or part of the processing performed by the higher-level management server 400 may be performed by the headquarters server 300.

[0086] The functions realized by processors 101, 201, and 401 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 hardware such as logic circuits with software control.

[0087] 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]

[0088] 1...Transaction processing system, 2...Communication network, 100...POS terminal, 200...Store controller, 300...Headquarters server, 400...Higher management server, 101,201,401...Processor, 102,202,402...Main memory unit, 103,203,403...Sub memory unit, 104...Input unit, 105...Display unit, 106...Sound unit, 107...Fixed scanner, 108...Handheld scanner, 109...Currency receiving unit, 110...Settlement unit, 111...Printer, 112,204,404...Communication unit, 113,205,405...Transmission line.

Claims

1. A reservation confirmation method to check whether the reservation of the product is eligible for the benefit, A first benefit update means that, when the aforementioned reservation is eligible for the aforementioned benefit, issues a benefit code to identify the aforementioned benefit and updates the status of the aforementioned benefit to issued, A benefit output means that outputs a benefit voucher certifying the right to use the aforementioned benefit, with the aforementioned benefit code added to it, A transaction processing system equipped with the following features.

2. If the aforementioned reward voucher could not be printed due to a communication error, the system includes a second reward update means that, separately from the sales transaction of the reserved product, reissues the reward code and updates the status of the reward to "reissued". The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

3. When a transaction is conducted using the aforementioned benefit voucher, the system is equipped with a third benefit update means for updating the status of the aforementioned benefit to "used". The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

4. The system includes a fourth reward update means for updating the status of the reward to "reusable" when a transaction using the aforementioned reward voucher is canceled. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

5. The first reward renewal means issues the reward code linked to the reservation code that identifies the reservation. The transaction processing system according to claim 1.

6. The computer for the transaction processing system, A reservation confirmation method to check whether the reservation of the product is eligible for the benefit, A first benefit update means that, when the aforementioned reservation is eligible for the aforementioned benefit, issues a benefit code to identify the aforementioned benefit and updates the status of the aforementioned benefit to issued, A benefit output means that outputs a benefit voucher certifying the right to use the aforementioned benefit, with the aforementioned benefit code added to it, An information processing program designed to function as such.

7. A means for obtaining a reservation code to identify the reservation of a product, When the aforementioned reservation is eligible for a benefit, a benefit output means outputs a benefit voucher certifying the right to use the benefit, with a benefit code identifying the benefit added to it. A transaction processing device equipped with the following.

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