Product registration device, product registration system, and product registration program

Abstract

This product registration device provides an appropriate countermeasure against fraudulent activity in point-of-sale (POS) systems where customers register products. [Solution] A product registration device 10 that registers products by receiving customer operations, comprising: a registration means for receiving product registrations; a timing means for measuring the time between the registration of one product and the registration of the next product; and an output means for outputting information corresponding to the timing result from the timing means.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a product registration device, a product registration system, and a product registration program that are used in retail stores such as supermarkets and perform product registration and settlement processing of purchased products.

Background Art

[0002] With the shortage of labor and the soaring labor costs, a so-called self-checkout POS (Point of Sales) system that allows customers to perform product registration and settlement processing has been introduced in stores. In this regard, a registration and settlement device that can switch between full self-checkout and semi self-checkout has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, with the technology of Patent Document 1, it was not possible to efficiently monitor by store employees while ensuring smooth product registration in self-checkout.

[0005] [[ID= 41]]Therefore, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a product registration device that can appropriately respond to illegal acts in a POS system that allows customers to perform product registration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above objective, a product registration device according to one aspect of the present invention is a product registration device that registers products by receiving customer operations, comprising: registration means for receiving the product registration; timing means for timing the time between the time when one product registration is performed and the time when the next product registration is performed; output means for outputting information corresponding to the timing result by the timing means; and determination means for determining whether the timing result is above a predetermined threshold, wherein the output means outputs the information when the determination means determines that the timing result is above the threshold. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is an external front view showing the overall appearance of a product registration system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram showing the functions of a product registration system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a processing flow diagram showing a first example of the processing flow performed by the product registration system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a table illustrating the relationship between product information and the threshold for the timing result. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a table illustrating the relationship between product information and the increased alert level. [Figure 6] This figure shows a first example of a screen displayed on a monitor that monitors a product registration device in a product registration system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Hereinafter, a product registration device, a product registration system, and a product registration program according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the figures. The product registration system 100 (see Figure 2) is a system that includes at least a product registration device 10 and is connected to a higher-level server 400 and appropriate peripheral devices via a network NW, thereby enabling the execution of product registration processing, accounting processing, etc.

[0009] ● Product registration device 10 As shown in Figure 1, the product registration device 10 is a so-called fully self-service register that registers products based on the customer's operations and settles the payment based on the customer's operations. The product registration device 10 performs a registration process to register products and a settlement process to settle the payment for the registered products based on the customer's own operations.

[0010] Multiple product registration devices 10 are installed, for example, in designated areas within the store. A store employee, acting as a supervisor, monitors multiple product registration devices 10. The employee responds to errors in the product registration devices 10 and assists customers if they experience operational problems. In fully self-service checkouts, there is a risk of fraudulent activity where customers take items without registering them. In particular, a known fraudulent act called "overlap scanning" involves placing another product behind an item during registration, registering only the front item, and then taking the back item without paying for it. Therefore, the employee monitoring the product registration devices 10 also monitors for overlap scanning. The employee monitors the sign poles 216, described later, installed on each of the multiple product registration devices 10, and operates the product registration device 10 where the sign pole 216 is located, or monitors the movements of the operator operating the product registration device 10, in response to the flashing of the sign poles 216.

[0011] The product registration device 10 mainly comprises a main body 20, an upstream workbench 230, and a downstream workbench 240. The upstream workbench 230 is a table on which products to be registered and shopping baskets containing those products can be placed. The downstream workbench 240 is a workbench on which products that have been registered and shopping bags containing those products can be placed.

[0012] The downstream workbench 240 includes, for example, a voucher storage section 242, a rack 243, and a weighing scale 300. The voucher storage section 242 is located below the weighing scale 300 and is a container capable of storing used vouchers. The rack 243 is placed above the weighing scale 300 and is a rack that assists in bagging registered products. The rack 243 includes shopping bag hooks 246 for hanging shopping bags, a roll holder section 247 for holding so-called plastic bag rolls in which multiple plastic bags are connected in a roll shape, and a temporary storage platform 248 on which products can be temporarily placed.

[0013] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2, the main body 20 of the product registration device 10 mainly comprises a CPU 201, a storage unit 202, a display unit 205, a scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change dispenser 209, an imaging unit 210, an audio output unit 211, a communication unit 212, a printing unit 213, a signpost 216, and a connection unit 217. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0014] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the product registration device 10 by reading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 202. The memory unit 202 stores information that the CPU 201 references or generates, information acquired from external sources, etc. The memory unit 202 is a general term for one or more different storage components, such as memory or storage, and includes RAM, ROM, hard disk, SSD (Solid State Drive), etc.

[0015] The display unit 205 is a device for displaying various product data such as the name and price of the products purchased by the customer, or the total amount of registered products, an information reception screen for purchasing shopping bags, and information corresponding to the information output from the downstream workbench 240, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display. In this embodiment, the display unit 205 is a data-inputtable touch panel, and customer operations and information input can be received via the display unit 205. Further, the monitoring monitor 215 as another example of the display unit 205 is a display unit disposed above the sign pole 216, and for example, displays the captured image by the camera 214 in real time.

[0016] The scanner unit 206 is a device for reading various data, and information about a product is encoded and realized by a scanner or the like that reads a barcode or a two-dimensional code attached to the product. Note that the scanner unit 206 may be a stationary scanner that holds the product over the reading surface as shown in FIG. 1, or may be a handy type scanner. Further, the scanner unit 206 may have both a stationary scanner and a handy type scanner. For example, the scanner unit 206 scans the code attached to the product and reads a product code such as a JAN code. Further, the scanner unit 206 may scan the code attached to an appropriate medium such as coupons, cards, or employee name tags and read the respective information.

[0017] The card settlement unit 208 is a device that accepts non-cash settlement using a predetermined settlement medium. The settlement medium is, for example, a credit card, an electronic money card, a debit card, a point card at the time of point payment, etc., and appropriately executes inquiry processing such as credit check with an external server and executes settlement using a predetermined settlement medium. Note that the card settlement unit 208 is not limited to these examples, and is a device for handling settlement processes other than cash payment and also supports services such as code settlement. Further, the card settlement unit 208 may be a plurality of members corresponding to the card to be read.

[0018] The change dispenser 209 is a cash settlement mechanism that has an inlet for bills and coins and an outlet for bills and coins, calculates the amount of money inserted into the inlet, calculates the change amount which is the difference between the inserted amount and the purchase amount, and discharges the change from the outlet. The change dispenser 209 includes physical mechanisms such as a coin inlet, a coin payout outlet, a bill inlet, and a bill payout outlet, accepts the deposit of the money put in by the customer, counts the deposited money, and pays out change according to the accounting amount. The change dispenser 209 may have a cover that covers the entire change dispenser 209 or the inlets for coins and bills in order to prohibit the insertion of coins and bills when not in use.

[0019] The imaging unit 210 is a functional unit that images the customer (customer) and the customer's actions, etc., and is composed of a camera 214 or the like. The imaging unit 210 images, for example, the customer's face and hands, particularly, for example, the vicinity of the inlet and outlet of the change dispenser 209, the upstream workbench 230, or the downstream workbench 240, etc. The imaging unit 210 may be a wide-angle lens capable of imaging a plurality of imaging targets together, for example, a fish-eye lens. Note that the imaging unit 210 is installed above the display unit 205 in the illustrated example, but may be installed at other positions.

[0020] Regarding the monitoring of the customer's operation, in addition to imaging the product reading operation by the imaging unit 210, a human sensor or the like may be used instead of the imaging unit 210 or together with the imaging unit 210. In this case, when there is an error in reading the product or when the product is put into a shopping bag or a personal bag without reading the product, the customer's image may be displayed on the registration operation screen. Such image display may be performed constantly during the registration operation. Also, either, or both, of the front image of the product registration device 10 that the customer faces when performing the registration operation and the front image of the downstream workbench 240 that the customer faces when putting the product into a shopping bag or the like may be displayed, or the display may be switched and displayed in a predetermined area on the screen. This also contributes to preventing fraud against the customer.

[0021] The voice output unit 211 outputs various voices such as, for example, a confirmation sound, a warning sound, and voice guidance.

[0022] The communications unit 212 sends and receives information with other devices such as the upper-level server 400.

[0023] The printing unit 213 is a device that issues various media such as receipts and coupons after the customer has processed the payment for the goods. The printing unit 213 is, for example, a receipt printer that prints the details of the payment on a predetermined paper medium such as thermal paper, and ejects the issued receipt from the receipt issuing slot.

[0024] The sign pole 216 is a member that extends above the display unit 205 and is equipped with a light-emitting unit 216a at its tip. Depending on the mode of illumination of the light-emitting unit 216a, it provides various information such as staff calls, operating status, and notifications requiring caution. For example, the light-emitting unit 216a may provide notifications in different display modes depending on the type of notification. The sign pole 216 may also be equipped with a display unit such as a monitoring monitor 215 that displays the number of the device when it is in standby mode, or displays images captured by the imaging unit 210 when it is in operation.

[0025] The connection unit 217 is configured to connect the product registration device 10 to a peripheral device, such as a weighing instrument 300. The connection unit 217 enables the product registration device 10 and the peripheral device to send and receive data via USB connection, LAN (Local Area Network) connection, serial connection such as RS232C, or a predetermined network. The connection method between the product registration device 10 and the peripheral device is not limited to those described above; various communication methods, both wireless and wired, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, mobile phone information networks, and infrared, can be applied.

[0026] The weighing scale 300 measures the weight of shopping bags, reusable bags, or products placed on it. The weighing scale 300 transmits the measured value to the product registration device 10. For example, the weighing scale 300 transmits the measured value to the product registration device 10 in response to a request for the measured value from the product registration device 10. The product registration device 10 may request the measured value from the weighing scale 300 in response to customer operations, for example. The weighing scale 300 may also manage the weight of items other than the products, such as the weighing pan 300a, rack 243, plastic bag rolls, and shopping bags, placed on it as the so-called tare weight, and transmit the measured value of the products placed on the weighing scale 300 to the product registration device 10.

[0027] Furthermore, the product registration device 10 may be equipped with a separate display unit on the back of the display unit 205 to display various information to store staff, in addition to the display unit 205. The product registration device 10 may also be equipped with various sensors, such as a motion sensor for detecting the presence of a customer. In addition, the product registration device 10 may be a cash-only machine without a card payment unit 208, or a card-only machine without a change dispenser 209.

[0028] Furthermore, at least some of these functional units may be provided on a higher-level server 400 or the like connected via a network NW, and configured as a product registration system 100, with the product registration device 10 being able to refer to and display the data and processing results stored in these functional units. The product registration system 100 may include multiple product registration devices 10.

[0029] Furthermore, these functional units may be configured as browser functions for a computer terminal, or, when operating as a thin client terminal, as server programs that communicate with cloud services or the company's own application server. For example, they may be configured to provide functions to client terminals such as tablet POS systems via cloud services. Such a configuration is also called Web-POS, and specifically involves having a server device execute some or all of the functions performed by client terminals such as tablet POS systems, using a so-called thin client method or a web client method that webifies applications.

[0030] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the product registration device 10 receives information input from customers via a display unit 205 which is composed of a touch-type display. However, instead of this, or in conjunction with it, physical keys or the like may be provided for customers or store staff to directly input information.

[0031] ● Functional blocks of the product registration system The product registration system consists of functional blocks comprising a product information storage unit, registration unit, timing unit, judgment unit, alert level management unit, and output control unit, each configured by the arithmetic unit such as the CPU 201 of the product registration device 10 shown in Figure 2, or a memory unit such as RAM 202, or a CPU or memory unit appropriately provided by the higher-level server 400. Some or all of the functional units may be implemented in the higher-level server 400, which is connected by wired or wireless means. In particular, for example, the product information storage unit, judgment unit, and alert level management unit may be implemented in the higher-level server 400. The upper-level server 400 may be, for example, a server or a cloud computer.

[0032] The product information storage unit is a functional unit that stores information related to a product, i.e., product information. Product information may include, for example, product identification information, product classification, product price, product shape, product size, etc. Product identification information is, for example, a JAN code.

[0033] The registration unit is a functional unit that accepts product registrations. For example, the registration unit acquires product information of products to be registered via the scanner unit 206.

[0034] The timing unit is a functional unit that measures the time spent on customer product registration as the measurement result. The timing unit measures the time between the registration of one product and the registration of the next product, also known as the scan interval. More specifically, when a product is registered by the registration unit, the timing unit starts timing from the first point in time when the registration is received. Furthermore, when the registration unit receives registration for the next product, the timing unit calculates the time from the first point in time to the second point in time when the registration of the next product is received as the measurement result.

[0035] The timing unit may also measure the elapsed time from the time when product registration was performed as the timing result.

[0036] The determination unit is a functional unit that determines the timing result calculated by the timing unit. The timing result is, for example, the time interval between product registrations when registering multiple products. The determination unit determines whether the timing result is above a predetermined threshold. There may be one predetermined threshold, or there may be multiple thresholds set in stages, and the determination unit may determine which threshold the timing result is above. Each threshold may be stored in the product registration device 10, or it may be stored in the higher-level server 400.

[0037] The threshold for the timing result may be stored in advance or can be arbitrarily set by an administrator. The threshold setting operation may be received via the product registration device 10 or the higher-level server 400. With an arbitrarily configurable configuration, it is possible to make judgments based on thresholds that are in line with actual conditions, such as differences in customer demographics at different stores. In addition, different thresholds may be applied depending on the day of the week or time of day. With such a configuration, thresholds that are in line with actual conditions can be applied according to the trend of reading speed according to the day of the week and time of day.

[0038] Furthermore, the threshold for the timing result may differ depending on the product classification or identification information. Figure 4 is an example of a table showing the relationship between product identification information and the threshold for the timing result. Factors to consider when determining the time to add to the threshold for the timing result include, for example, size, product strength, storage temperature, and whether or not a plastic bag is used when placing the product in a shopping bag. A predetermined score may be assigned to each of these factors, and the time to add may be calculated according to the score. For example, for product size, evaluation values ​​may be assigned in stages, with 1 point added for a product of size 3 and 2 points added for a product of size 4. For product strength, 1 point may be added for products with relatively low strength. If product strength is not stored as product information, points may be added according to the product classification, for example, 1 point may be added for frozen foods and beverages. For storage temperature, 1 point may be added for frozen and refrigerated products. Also, since frozen and refrigerated products and loose vegetables are highly likely to be placed in a plastic bag before being placed in a shopping bag, 1 point may be added for those as well. The judgment unit sums the points calculated for each factor as described above and determines the time to add according to the score. For example, if the score is 5 points, 10 seconds are added to the timing threshold; if it's 4 points, 8 seconds are added; if it's 3 points, 5 seconds are added; and if it's 2 points, 3 seconds are added. If the score is 1 point or less, no time is added to the timing threshold.

[0039] Note that the table in Figure 4 may be pre-registered by an administrator or other person. Alternatively, the determination unit may create and store a table like the one shown in Figure 4 in advance by performing the calculation process for the added time as described above when product information is registered or when various devices are started. In this case, the determination unit refers to the table when a product is registered to determine the threshold for the timing result. Alternatively, the determination unit may be configured to refer to the product information and calculate the added time each time a product is registered.

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, for example, frozen foods and beverages are placed at the bottom of the shopping basket when browsing in the store, and also at the bottom of the shopping bag when taking them home. Therefore, the process of taking the items out from the bottom of the shopping basket during product registration takes a relatively long time. As shown in the same figure, the threshold for the timing result for frozen foods such as large bags of ice and frozen fried rice is relatively large compared to other products. Also, loose vegetables and other items require the process of placing them in a plastic bag before putting them in the shopping bag, which also takes time to register. Therefore, for products that are likely to take a long time to register, the threshold for the timing result may be set to be longer than for other products. With such a configuration, excessive caution can be suppressed.

[0041] The threshold for the timing result, which is determined according to the registered product, may be applied to the time interval from the time of registration of the product to the time of registration of the next product, or to the time interval from the time of registration of the product immediately preceding the product to the time of registration of the product immediately preceding the product. By applying the threshold to the time interval from the time of registration of the product to the time of registration of the next product, it is possible to prevent fraud while suppressing excessive vigilance by giving appropriate time to products that take time to put into a shopping bag. Furthermore, by applying the threshold retrospectively to the time interval from the time of registration of the product immediately preceding the product to the time of registration of the product immediately preceding the product, it is possible to detect product registrations where the time interval may have been extended due to preparation for so-called overlapping scans, thereby detecting fraud.

[0042] Furthermore, the threshold for the timing result may differ depending on the time of registration within the same transaction. For example, the threshold within a predetermined time from the start of a transaction may be longer than the threshold after that predetermined time. Also, the threshold for the timing result may differ depending on the order in which the items are registered. For example, the threshold for the timing result may be longer for items registered up to a predetermined number after the start of a transaction than for items registered after that predetermined number. Items that should be placed at the bottom of the shopping bag, such as frozen foods and beverages, are likely to be registered early in the registration process and take time to register because they are at the bottom of the shopping cart. In this respect, with the above configuration, excessive caution can be suppressed by making the threshold for the timing result longer for items registered early in the registration process. The threshold for the timing result may be determined for each customer or for each transaction. The threshold may be determined, for example, according to the actual scan interval in a transaction, or it may be determined by calculating the average value of the first multiple scan intervals from the start of the transaction and determining the threshold according to this average value. The judgment unit may use this average value as the threshold, or it may use a value calculated by an appropriate formula based on this average value as the threshold. With such a configuration, since the threshold is set according to the customer's operating speed, fraudulent activity can be detected with greater accuracy. Furthermore, the determination unit may calculate the average value of all scan intervals for multiple product registrations made in a single transaction and determine whether this average value exceeds a threshold. With such a configuration, it is possible to retrospectively determine which items are to be cautious of after all product registrations have been made. In this case, the determination unit may also consider the total amount and / or the number of items purchased when making its determination. The determination unit may also consider the average price when making its determination. With such a configuration, it is possible to make a determination that takes into account trends such as long scan intervals and a large number of items purchased, but a low amount.

[0043] The determination unit may refer to the product information storage unit and make a determination if the size or shape of the registered product is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. Products with a shape or size greater than or equal to a predetermined value include, for example, products containing trays of medium size or larger, or relatively large box-shaped products, which can easily be used for so-called overlapping scans because other products can be easily hidden behind them. In this respect, the above configuration makes it possible to appropriately detect the occurrence of overlapping scans. In this case, since it is possible that preparations for overlapping scans were made before the registration of the product in question, the occurrence of overlapping scans can be detected more appropriately by making a determination based on the time interval between the registration of the previous product and the registration of the product in question.

[0044] Furthermore, the determination may be made only if the size or shape of the registered product is above a specified level, and the price of the product is below a specified level. Since operators who commit fraud are highly likely to attempt fraud with small expenses, this configuration allows for more effective monitoring of overlapping scans. In addition, when the size or shape of the registered product is above a specified level, and the price of the product is below a specified level, the threshold for the timing result may be set to a shorter time than when the product price is higher than the specified level. By lowering the determination threshold as the shape or size is larger and the price is lower, overlapping scans can be monitored more effectively.

[0045] Furthermore, the determination unit may refer to the product information storage unit and refrain from making a determination if the size or shape of the registered product is less than a predetermined value. Also, the determination unit may refrain from making a determination if the registered product has a predetermined classification or identification information. In this case, for example, the classification or identification information of products that are unlikely to be used for overlay scanning is stored in advance. For example, the product classification may include at least a first classification for relatively large products and a second classification for relatively small products, and no determination may be made for products in the second classification.

[0046] The determination unit may refer to the price of a registered product along with its size or shape, and may choose not to make a determination if the size or shape is below a predetermined level and the price is below a predetermined level. When a registered product is relatively small, it is difficult to hide another product behind it and scan it, so the probability of overlapping scanning is low. Also, since products with relatively low prices tend to be small, products with a low probability of overlapping scanning can be identified by referring to the price. Therefore, this configuration can also suppress excessive caution. Furthermore, the determination unit may perform a different determination when the previously registered item is a shopping bag compared to other items. Because a shopping bag requires time to be hung on the shopping bag hook 246, it takes longer to read the next item compared to other items. Therefore, for example, if the previously registered item is a shopping bag, the determination unit may set the threshold for the timing result to be longer than for other items. Alternatively, the determination unit may choose not to perform a timing result determination when the previously registered item is a shopping bag. In this case, the timing unit may choose not to perform timing when the previously registered item is a shopping bag. Furthermore, if the downstream workbench 240 is being imaged by the camera 214 or the like, and if it is detected that work is being done at the downstream workbench 240, the determination unit may exclude that time from the measurement of the scan interval. This is because preparation for overlapping scans is done before product registration, so there is no need to be concerned about work at the downstream workbench 240. In addition, the time spent working at the downstream workbench 240 may be excluded from the measurement only if the time interval between the registration of the product to be placed in the shopping bag and the registration of the previous product is within the normal range below a threshold.

[0047] The alert level management unit is an example of a management mechanism and is a functional unit that manages the alert level related to a transaction. The alert level management unit calculates the alert level for each transaction by the customer. For example, when a customer starts an operation on the product registration device 10 or starts registering a product, it is considered that a transaction has started, and the alert level is reset to an initial value, for example, level 0. Furthermore, when a customer completes settlement, for example, the alert level management unit considers that the transaction has ended and resets the alert level.

[0048] The alert level is changed in stages when the customer's product registration method meets certain conditions. For example, the alert level management unit raises the alert level when the judgment unit determines that the timing result is above a threshold. For example, the alert level management unit sets the alert level to level 0 at the start of a transaction. Then, if an event occurs that causes the timing result to be above a threshold, i.e., a delay event, the alert level management unit changes the alert level to level 1. Furthermore, if another delay event occurs in the same transaction, the alert level management unit raises the alert level further to level 2. The alert level management unit may raise the alert level by one level if multiple delay events occur. The alert level management unit may also determine the alert level according to the number of delay events in the same transaction. For example, if there are five delay events in the same transaction, the alert level management unit changes the alert level to level 3.

[0049] In the above embodiment, the conditions for raising the alert level are arbitrary, and the threshold for the timing result may be different depending on the alert level. The threshold may be shortened as the alert level increases, or the threshold may be shortened when the alert level exceeds a certain level. For example, the threshold may be uniformly shortened by 2 seconds when the alert level exceeds a certain level. With such a configuration, the alert level is more likely to be raised for customers whose reading behavior requires caution, making it easier to detect fraud. Furthermore, the number of delayed events that trigger an increase in the alert level can be configured as appropriate. The threshold for the number of delayed events may be determined according to the set threshold for the timing result. In this case, a table is stored that associates the threshold for the timing result with the threshold for the number of delayed events, and the alert level management unit refers to this table to determine the threshold for the number of delayed events according to the threshold for the timing result. The number of delayed events may also be configured to be set as appropriate by the administrator.

[0050] The Alert Level Management Unit may change the alert level of a transaction based on the number of registered points registered in that transaction. The Alert Level Management Unit may also change the alert level of a transaction based on the registered amount registered in that transaction. Furthermore, the Alert Level Management Unit may change the alert level of a transaction based on both the number of registered points and the registered amount registered in that transaction. For example, the Alert Level Management Unit may raise the alert level if the number of registered points is above a certain level and the registered amount is below a predetermined amount.

[0051] The thresholds for registration points and registered amounts that raise the alert level may be set to appropriate values ​​and may be changeable by the administrator. The thresholds for registration points and registered amounts may be set for each store. Furthermore, the thresholds for registration points and registered amounts may be set according to the purchasing patterns of customers at that store, for example, according to the average number of items purchased or the average customer spending. More specifically, the threshold may be the value obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the average number of items purchased, or a predetermined percentage of the average customer spending. In addition, the threshold calculated according to the purchasing patterns of customers may be set automatically, or it may be displayed as a recommended value on a screen that the administrator can view.

[0052] The alert level management unit may refer to the product information storage unit and raise the alert level based on the shape or size of the product registered in the product registration device 10. In particular, the alert level management unit may raise the alert level if the shape of the registered product is above a predetermined value. More specifically, for example, the alert level may be raised if the thresholds for both the vertical length and horizontal length are above a predetermined value. The alert level management unit may also raise the alert level if the size of the registered product is above a predetermined value. By raising the alert level when a product is registered that has a shape or size that makes it easy to hide another product on the back, the alert level management unit can appropriately strengthen vigilance against operators who may perform overlapping scans.

[0053] The alert level management unit may determine the alert level to be raised by referring to multiple conditions set in the product information. That is, the alert level determination unit may refer to, for example, the product price, shape, and size. In this case, the increase or decrease in the alert level set for each condition may be summed up to determine the alert level to be raised for that product. For example, regarding the price, one level may be added for products costing 1500 yen or more, and one level may be subtracted for products costing 300 yen or less. Regarding the size of the product, evaluation values ​​evaluated in stages may be assigned, and one level may be added for products with a size of 2 or more. In addition, one level may be added for products with a shape that is easy to conceal.

[0054] The alert level management unit may calculate the alert level to be raised by referring to the product information and generate a table linking the product information with the alert level to be raised, which may be stored in the product information storage unit or similar in advance. The table is generated, for example, when product information is registered or when various devices are started up. In this case, when a product is registered, the alert level management unit refers to the table to determine the alert level to be raised. Figure 5 is an example of a table showing the relationship between product information and the alert level to be raised. In this example, information is stored that evaluates the size of products in stages. Products with a size of 4 have their alert level raised by 2 levels, while products with a size of 1 do not have their alert level raised. In addition, although retort curry is below the threshold in both size and price, it has one level added because of its shape, which makes it easy to conceal. Note that the table in Figure 5 may be pre-registered by an administrator or other relevant person. Alternatively, instead of referencing the table, the alert level management unit may calculate the alert level by referencing the product information of each product each time it is registered.

[0055] The alert level management unit may raise the alert level if products that meet the shape or size requirements are registered consecutively. For example, the alert level management unit may raise the alert level by one level if two products that meet the shape or size requirements are registered consecutively, and raise the alert level by another level if three products that meet the shape or size requirements are registered consecutively.

[0056] The alert level management unit may, when products that meet the shape or size requirements are registered consecutively, refer to the price of those products as well, and raise the alert level significantly the lower the price.

[0057] The alert level management unit may, in lieu of or in addition to the above configuration, raise the alert level if a certain number of products that meet the specified shape or size requirements are included among the most recently registered predetermined number of products.

[0058] The classification or identification information of products that may be used for over-scanning is pre-stored in the product information storage unit or an appropriate configuration, and the alert level management unit may raise the alert level based on the registered product classification or identification information. The degree to which the alert level is raised may differ depending on the product classification or identification information, in which case the product classification or identification information and the degree to which the alert level is raised are stored in association. The alert level management unit may raise the alert level when a predetermined number or more of products classified in the first category, which includes relatively large products, are registered in a single transaction.

[0059] The alert level management unit may raise the alert level if a predetermined time has elapsed since product registration without the next operation being performed. This predetermined time is longer than the threshold for the judgment result. The next operation includes not only registering the next product, but also pressing the checkout button or calling a store employee. Situations in which the next operation is not performed include, for example, when considering product combinations for overlapping scans, when products become disorganized inside the shopping bag, or when products are dropped. In any case, by having a store employee pay attention to the product registration device 10, fraudulent activity can be detected, or the customer can be assisted, which can help in store operations.

[0060] With a system in which the alert level management department calculates alert levels in stages, the quality of monitoring can be kept consistent by objectively ranking operators who require monitoring, whereas previously the level of monitoring relied on the experience or intuition of store employees.

[0061] The output control unit is a functional unit that notifies store staff and others of appropriate information depending on the situation. This output control unit controls, for example, the sign pole 216, causing it to emit light in a predetermined color and flashing pattern. In other words, the illumination of the sign pole 216 is one example of output. The light-emitting part 216a of the sign pole 216 is located above the display unit 205 and above the operator's head, making it difficult for the operator to see during product registration. Therefore, even if the sign pole 216 outputs a warning level, it does not cause discomfort or distrust to the operator, and the need for caution can be appropriately communicated only to a supervisor monitoring from a slightly distant position. Furthermore, since the illumination of the sign pole 216 is difficult for the fraudster to see, the supervisor can more reliably capture and deal with the fraud by allowing the fraudster to continue scanning over the sign pole.

[0062] Furthermore, a configuration that uses the existing signpost 216 to notify of warning events can be implemented inexpensively without adding any separate components.

[0063] Furthermore, while the output control unit is illuminating the sign pole 216, the registration unit continues to accept product registrations. By continuing to accept product registrations and illuminating the sign pole 216 according to the judgment of the judgment unit or the alert level, it is possible to ensure smooth product registration by the operator at the self-checkout while enabling efficient monitoring by store staff.

[0064] Furthermore, while checking images captured by cameras such as camera 214 only allowed for retrospective detection, a configuration that notifies before an overlapping scan occurs allows store staff to visually confirm the overlapping scan on the spot and take appropriate action against the operator. In addition, a configuration that does not interrupt the operator's product registration also allows store staff to visually confirm the overlapping scan on the spot.

[0065] Furthermore, in configurations where the weighing results from the weighing device 300 are used to determine fraudulent activity, the weighing device 300 is expensive, and misjudgments can occur if the customer does not place the registered product on the weighing device 300, but instead registers the product while holding it in their hand, for example. In this respect, the present configuration only provides notification in cases where caution is needed, so it does not hinder product registration even if no fraudulent activity occurs. In addition, since it is sufficient to determine the timing result, it can be implemented at a lower cost compared to a configuration that includes the weighing device 300.

[0066] The output control unit may output to the sign pole 216 in place of, or in addition to, an appropriate configuration. For example, it may be configured to emit sounds according to a predetermined situation using the voice output unit 211.

[0067] Furthermore, the output control unit may also provide notifications via external devices appropriately connected to the product registration device 10 or the higher-level server 400 via a network NW or the like. The external devices may be, for example, devices that can be viewed by store employees or managers, and may be located in the back room or remotely. This configuration allows for smooth response to abnormalities.

[0068] The output control unit outputs information corresponding to the timing result when the determination unit determines that the timing result is above a threshold. The output control unit may also output information corresponding to the alert level calculated by the alert level management unit. In other words, the output control unit may change the output pattern depending on the alert level. For example, the light color of the sign pole 216 may be changed depending on the alert level, or the flashing pattern may be changed. For example, at alert level 0, it lights up continuously. At alert level 1, it flashes with the same light color as level 0. At alert level 2, it flashes with a different light color than levels 0 and 1, for example, red. At alert level 3, it flashes with the same red color as level 2, but with a different flashing cycle, for example, a shorter cycle. At alert level 4, it flashes with the same red color as level 2, but with a different flashing cycle, for example, a shorter cycle.

[0069] The output control unit may output to the sign pole 216 or an appropriate configuration if a predetermined time has elapsed since the registration of one product without any subsequent operations being performed. This predetermined time is longer than the threshold value of the judgment result. The subsequent operations include, in addition to registering the next product, operating the checkout button or calling a store clerk. In this case, the illumination pattern of the sign pole 216 may be the same as, for example, the illumination pattern when the alert level is at its maximum. Furthermore, if the determination unit makes a determination retrospectively after all items have been registered for a transaction, the output control unit may output a different message than when outputting during item registration. The output control unit may, for example, print a predetermined message on the receipt issued after settlement. This message may be, for example, a message directing the customer to the service counter. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the output control unit may illuminate a sign pole. With such a configuration, store employees can later check customers or transactions that require special attention.

[0070] The output control unit stops outputting data when the transaction for which it was output is completed. The output control unit may also stop outputting data in response to appropriate instructions from the administrator. Here, we will describe how the upper-level server 400 and the product registration device 10 work together to realize the product registration system according to the present invention. In one embodiment, the upper-level server 400 has a determination unit and a warning level management unit, and the product registration device 10 has a product information storage unit, a registration unit, a timing unit and an output control unit. In this case, the product registration device 10 timings the scan interval and transmits the timing result to the upper-level server 400. The upper-level server 400 determines the timing result using the determination unit. The upper-level server 400 also transmits notification commands, such as the illumination of a sign pole, to the product registration device 10 from the output control unit. In another embodiment, the upper-level server 400 has a product information storage unit, a determination unit, and a warning level management unit, and the product registration device 10 has a registration unit, a timing unit, and an output control unit. In this case, when the product registration device 10 receives product registration via the registration unit, the upper-level server 400 acquires this registration information and obtains the product price, etc., by referring to the product information storage unit. The product registration device 10 also timings the scan interval and transmits the timing result to the upper-level server 400. The upper-level server 400 determines the timing result using the determination unit. The upper-level server 400 also transmits notification commands, such as the illumination of the sign pole, to the product registration device 10 from the output control unit. In yet another embodiment, the higher-level server 400 has a product information storage unit, a timing unit, a determination unit, and a warning level management unit, and the product registration device 10 has a registration unit and an output control unit. In this case, when the product registration device 10 receives product registration via the registration unit, the higher-level server 400 acquires this registration information and obtains the product price, etc., by referring to the product information storage unit. The higher-level server 400 also acquires the time when the product registration device 10 registered the product, and the timing unit calculates the scan interval. The higher-level server 400 also determines the timing result using the determination unit. Furthermore, the higher-level server 400 transmits notification commands, such as the illumination of the sign pole, to the product registration device 10 from the output control unit.

[0071] ●Processing flow (1) Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 3, a first example of the processing flow performed by the product registration system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The first example shows a process that outputs information according to the timing result.

[0072] First, when a product is registered by the registration unit (Y in S1), the timing unit of the product registration device 10 starts timing from the first time point in time when the registration was received (S2). Next, when the timing unit receives registration of the next product from the registration unit (Y in S3), it calculates the time from the first time point to the second time point when the registration of the next product was received as the timing result (S4). Next, the determination unit determines whether the timing result is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (S5). In this case, in an embodiment where the threshold of the timing result determined according to the product to be registered is applied to the time interval from the time of registration of the product to the time of registration of the next product, the determination is made using the threshold corresponding to the product whose registration was received in step S1. Also, if it is applied to the time interval from the time of registration of the product immediately preceding the product whose registration is received, the determination is made using the threshold corresponding to the product whose registration was received in step S3. If the timing result is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (Y in S5), the alert level management unit raises the alert level (S6), and then the output control unit lights up the sign pole 216 in a predetermined manner (S7). The process then returns to step S1 and is repeated until the transaction is completed.

[0073] If the timing result in step S5 is less than the threshold (N in S5), return to step S1.

[0074] ●Example of display on the screen Here, using Figure 6, we will explain the assist monitor screen G10 displayed on a suitable display device connected to the upper server 400. The suitable display device may communicate directly with the product registration device 10 to obtain information from each product registration device, or the upper server 400 may obtain information from the product registration device 10 and then retrieve the information via the upper server 400. The assist monitor screen G10 displays the status of multiple product registration devices 10 that are being managed, as well as any abnormalities that have occurred. In addition, any errors occurring in each product registration device 10 are displayed in the status display area G11 of each product registration device 10. Furthermore, the display field G12 of the product registration device 10 in which an error is displayed is shown above the status display area G11. Note that "end" refers to the state where the provided shopping bags have run out, and "near end" refers to the state just before the shopping bags run out.

[0075] Furthermore, icons G12b and G12c indicating product registration devices 10 with a warning level above a predetermined value may be placed in a different area from icon G12a indicating a product registration device 10 with an error. In the example shown in the figure, within the display area G12, icons G12b and G12c indicating product registration devices 10 with a warning level of level 1 or higher are placed below icon G12a. Note that within the display area G12, the icons indicating product registration devices 10 may be displayed in different areas depending on the warning level; for example, icons with higher warning levels may be displayed higher up in the display area G12. In addition, the display area G12 may display the value of the warning level, and the display manner of the icons for each product registration device 10, such as the color of the outer edge or the color of the shading of the icons, may be different depending on the warning level.

[0076] The product registration device according to the present invention can appropriately address fraudulent activities in a POS system that allows customers to register products. ●Summary of Embodiments

[0077] The present invention relates to a product registration device, a product registration system, and a product registration program used in retail stores such as supermarkets to register purchased products and process payments.

[0078] Due to labor shortages and rising labor costs, stores are introducing POS (Point of Sales) systems that use self-checkout registers, where customers register and pay for their own products. In this regard, a registration and payment device that can switch between fully self-service and semi-self-service has been proposed (see Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-17075).

[0079] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 could not ensure smooth product registration at self-checkout counters while efficiently monitoring by store staff.

[0080] Therefore, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a product registration device that can appropriately respond to fraudulent activities in a POS system in which customers register products.

[0081] To achieve the above objective, a product registration device according to one aspect of the present invention is a product registration device that registers products by receiving customer operations, comprising: registration means for receiving the product registration; timing means for timing the time between the time when one product registration is performed and the time when the next product registration is performed; output means for outputting information corresponding to the timing result by the timing means; and determination means for determining whether the timing result is above a predetermined threshold, wherein the output means outputs the information when the determination means determines that the timing result is above the threshold.

[0082] The system may further include a management means for managing the alert level for each transaction made by the customer, wherein the management means raises the alert level when the determination means determines that the timing result is equal to or greater than the threshold, and the output means outputs information corresponding to the alert level.

[0083] The management means may refer to the classification of goods registered by the registration means, and the classification may include at least a first classification in which relatively large goods are classified, and a second classification in which relatively small goods are classified, and the alert level may be raised if a predetermined number or more of the goods classified in the first classification are registered in one transaction.

[0084] The management means may raise the alert level when the number of goods registered by the registration means in one transaction is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, and the total amount of the registered goods is less than a predetermined amount.

[0085] To achieve the above objective, a product registration program according to another aspect of the present invention is a product registration program that registers a product by accepting customer operations, and causes a computer to execute a registration command to accept the product registration, a timing command to measure the time between the time when one product registration is performed and the time when the next product registration is performed, an output command to output information corresponding to the timing result of the timing command, and a determination command to determine whether the timing result is above a predetermined threshold, wherein the output command outputs the information when the determination command determines that the timing result is above the threshold.

[0086] To achieve the above objective, a product registration system according to yet another aspect of the present invention is a product registration system that registers products by receiving customer operations, comprising: registration means for receiving the product registration; timing means for timing the time between the time when one product registration is performed and the time when the next product registration is performed; output means for outputting information corresponding to the timing result by the timing means; and determination means for determining whether the timing result is above a predetermined threshold, wherein the output means outputs the information when the determination means determines that the timing result is above the threshold.

[0087] This product registration device can provide appropriate countermeasures against fraudulent activity in POS systems where customers register products. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 20: Product registration device 114: Payment terminal 115: Printer 201:CPU 202: Storage section 205:Display section 216: Sign pole 216a: Light-emitting part 217: Connection part 400: Upper server G10: Assist Monitor Screen NW: Network

Claims

1. A product registration device that registers products by receiving customer operations, A registration means for accepting the aforementioned product registration, A timing means for measuring the time between the registration of one product and the registration of the next product, An output means that outputs information corresponding to the timing result by the aforementioned timing means, A determination means for determining whether the timing result is above a predetermined threshold, Equipped with, The output means outputs the information when the determination means determines that the timing result is equal to or greater than the threshold. Product registration device.

2. For each transaction by the aforementioned customer, the system further provides a management means for managing the alert level related to the transaction. The management means raises the alert level when the determination means determines that the timing result is equal to or greater than the threshold. The output means outputs information corresponding to the alert level. Product registration device according to claim 1.

3. The management means refers to the classification of goods registered by the registration means, and the classification includes at least a first classification in which relatively large goods are classified, and a second classification in which relatively small goods are classified, and in one transaction, if a predetermined number or more of the goods classified in the first classification are registered, the alert level is raised. Product registration device according to claim 2.

4. The management means raises the alert level when the number of goods registered by the registration means in one transaction is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, and the total amount of the registered goods is less than a predetermined amount. Product registration device according to claim 2.

5. A product registration program that registers products by accepting customer operations, A registration order that accepts the aforementioned product registration, A timing command that measures the time between the registration of one product and the registration of the next product, An output command that outputs information corresponding to the timing result of the aforementioned timing command, A determination command to determine whether the aforementioned timing result is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, Have the computer run it, In the output command, if the determination command determines that the timing result is equal to or greater than the threshold, the information is output. Product registration program.

6. A product registration system that registers products by accepting customer operations, A registration means for accepting the aforementioned product registration, A timing means for measuring the time between the registration of one product and the registration of the next product, An output means that outputs information corresponding to the timing result by the aforementioned timing means, A determination means for determining whether the timing result is above a predetermined threshold, Equipped with, The output means outputs the information when the determination means determines that the timing result is equal to or greater than the threshold. Product registration system.

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