Information processing systems and programs

Abstract

To provide an information processing system that allows speakers to be used according to the usage scenario. [Solution] The information processing system comprises a first housing, a second housing, a first speaker, a second speaker, and a control unit. The first housing includes a first side and a second side. The second housing includes a third side and a fourth side. The first speaker outputs sound from a first audio output port on the first side. The second speaker can be mounted on either the first housing or the second housing. When mounted on the first housing, it outputs sound from a second audio output port on the second side, and when mounted on the second housing, it outputs sound from a third audio output port on the third side. The control unit controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker and the second speaker. The first housing and the second housing are detachable when the second side of the first housing and the fourth side of the second housing are facing each other.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There is known a guidance device that combines a display and a speaker to guide various types of information. There is also known a guidance system in which two guidance devices are installed side by side.

[0003] As an example of these applications, there is a POS (Point Of Sales) system introduced in a retail store such as a supermarket. When applying a single guidance device to a POS system, for example, a customer makes inputs related to product registration and accounting processing to the guidance device while checking various guidance from the guidance device. When applying two installed guidance devices to a POS system, for example, a store clerk makes an input related to product registration to one guidance device, and a customer makes an input related to accounting processing to the other guidance device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The above-described guidance device is assumed to be used alone and includes a front speaker and a rear speaker. When two guidance devices are used side by side, the backs of these guidance devices face each other. At this time, the sound from the rear speaker of one guidance device is blocked by the back of the other guidance device. There are cases where the function of the rear speaker of the guidance device cannot be fully exerted, and improvement is desired.

[0006] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an information processing system and program that can utilize speakers according to the usage scenario. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing system according to the embodiment comprises a first housing, a second housing, a first speaker, a second speaker, and a control unit. The first housing includes a first side and a second side. The second housing includes a third side and a fourth side. The first speaker outputs sound from a first audio output port on the first side. The second speaker is mountable to either the first housing or the second housing, and when mounted to the first housing, it outputs sound from a second audio output port on the second side, and when mounted to the second housing, it outputs sound from a third audio output port on the third side. The control unit controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker and the second speaker. The first housing and the second housing are detachable when the second side of the first housing and the fourth side of the second housing are facing each other. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the external layout of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic side view showing an example of a standalone installation of the first enclosure in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic side view showing an example of the opposing installation of the first and second enclosures in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an information processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of audio output applied to the first mode when the first enclosure of the information processing system according to the first embodiment is installed as a standalone unit. [Figure 6]Figure 6 shows an example of audio output applied to the second mode when the first and second housings of the information processing system according to the first embodiment are installed facing each other. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of audio output control according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic side view showing an example of the opposing installation of the first and second enclosures in the information processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing system according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of the parts in the drawings used in the description of each embodiment has been appropriately changed. Also, some components have been omitted or their arrangements altered in the drawings used in the description of each embodiment.

[0010] Each embodiment primarily describes a case where two information processing devices are installed opposite each other and applied to a POS system, but it is also possible to install a single information processing device and apply it to a POS system. Furthermore, the information processing systems described in each embodiment can be applied to various other information processing systems besides POS systems.

[0011] <First Embodiment> [composition] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the external layout of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the information processing system applied to the POS system comprises a first enclosure 1, a second enclosure 2, a third enclosure 3, a cash processing unit 4, a payment terminal 5, a scanner 6, a printer 7, a first display 111, and a second display 211.

[0012] The information processing system, as an information processing device or sales data processing device, includes a first display 111 connected to the first housing 1 on the front side of the first housing 1 in the Z-axis direction, and a second display 211 connected to the second housing 2 on the front side of the second housing 2 in the Z-axis direction. For example, the first display 111 located on the front side of the first housing 1 is a touch panel display with a first touch panel 111p on the same surface, which displays information, and the first touch panel 111p receives touch input corresponding to the displayed information. The first touch panel 111p is an example of a first input receiving unit. The second display 211 located on the front side of the second housing 2 is a touch panel display with a second touch panel 211p on the same surface, which displays information, and the second touch panel 211p receives touch input corresponding to the displayed information. The second touch panel 211p is an example of a second input receiving unit.

[0013] Furthermore, as a device for receiving information input, the information processing system may also include a first operation panel (not shown) in addition to the first touch panel 111p of the first display 111. The first operation panel is an example of a first input receiving unit. Similarly, the information processing system may also include a second operation panel (not shown) in addition to the second touch panel 211p of the second display 211. The second operation panel is an example of a second input receiving unit.

[0014] The cash processing unit 4 receives cash as payment for registered goods based on the product code read by the scanner 6 and dispenses change as needed. The payment terminal 5 communicates with credit cards, etc., and settles the payment for the goods. The scanner 6 reads product codes, etc., from the goods in order to register them. The printer 7 prints and outputs receipts, etc., that record information about the goods purchase transaction. Note that the cash processing unit 4, payment terminal 5, or scanner 6 are examples of the first input receiving unit or the second input receiving unit.

[0015] Note that the information processing system can be operated with a set of two units, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, or the second housing 2 can be excluded and the first housing 1 can be operated alone. For example, with respect to the Z-axis direction, the first display 111 located on the front of the first housing 1 displays various information to the customer, and the first touch panel 111p of the first display 111 receives input from the customer corresponding to the display. With respect to the Z-axis direction, the second display 211 located on the front of the second housing 2 displays various information to the store clerk, and the second touch panel 211p of the second display 211 receives input from the store clerk corresponding to the display.

[0016] In addition, the first housing 1 includes one or more first speakers attached to output sound from the front with respect to the Z-axis direction, and one or more second speakers attached to output sound from the back. The second speaker can be removed from the first housing 1. The second speaker removed from the first housing 1 can be attached to output sound to the front side of the second housing 2 with respect to the Z-axis direction. These speakers will be described in detail later.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a side view schematically showing an example of the single installation of the first housing 1 in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the first housing 1 of the information processing system includes a first side surface 11 and a second side surface 12 facing in opposite directions, and includes a first sound output port 112 (cover) arranged along the first side surface 11. Further, the information processing system includes a first display 111 arranged on the side of the first side surface 11 of the first housing 1, and the first display 111 includes a first touch panel 111p. The first housing 1 has the first side surface 11 as the front and the second side surface 12 as the back, and includes a first speaker 113 facing the front side. The first speaker 113 is attached, for example, at a position corresponding to the mesh-like first sound output port 112, and outputs sound to the outside through the first sound output port 112.

[0018] Note that the attachment positions of the first audio output port 112 and the first speaker 113 are not limited to the positions shown in FIG. 2, and may be any position along the first side surface 11 of the first housing 1. For example, the attachment positions of the first audio output port 112 and the first speaker 113 are not limited to the lower side of the first housing 1 hidden by the first display 111 (see FIG. 2), and may be above, to the right, or to the left of the first housing 1 hidden by the first display 111. Alternatively, if the first display 111 is made smaller, the attachment positions of the first audio output port 112 and the first speaker 113 may be below, above, to the right, or to the left of the first housing 1 that is not hidden by the first display 111.

[0019] Furthermore, the first housing 1 includes a second audio output port 122 (cover) disposed along the second side surface 12. The first housing 1 includes a second speaker 123 near the back. The second speaker 123 is attached at a position corresponding to the mesh-like second audio output port 122, and outputs audio to the outside through the second audio output port 122. Also, the second speaker 123 is configured to be detachable from the first housing 1.

[0020] Note that the attachment positions of the second audio output port 122 and the second speaker 123 are not limited to the positions shown in FIG. 2, and may be any position along the second side surface 12 of the first housing 1. For example, the attachment positions of the second audio output port 122 and the second speaker 123 are not limited to the lower side of the first housing 1 (see FIG. 2), and may be above, to the right, or to the left of the first housing 1.

[0021] Also, the first display 111 may not be separate from the first housing 1, but may be incorporated into the first housing 1. For example, the first display 111 may be incorporated into a part of the first side surface 11 of the first housing 1, and the first speaker 113 and the first audio output port 112 may be provided around (below, above, to the right, or to the left) of the first display 111.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a side view schematically showing an example of the opposed installation of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 in the information processing system according to the first embodiment. The configuration of the first enclosure 1 is as described with reference to Figure 2, but as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 3, it is also possible to attach the second enclosure 2 to the first enclosure 1 and install them facing each other. In this case, the sound output from the second speaker 123 would be blocked by the second enclosure 2, so the second speaker 123 is removed from the first enclosure 1 and attached to the second enclosure 2.

[0023] As shown in Figure 3, the second housing 2 of the information processing system includes a third side 21 and a fourth side 22 facing opposite directions, and has a third audio output port 212 positioned along the third side 21. The information processing system also includes a second display 211 positioned on the side of the third side 21 of the second housing 2, and the second display 211 includes a second touch panel 211p. The second side 12 of the first housing 1 and the fourth side 22 of the second housing 2 are detachable while facing each other. The second speaker 123 is removed from the first housing 1 as shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 3 and attached to the second housing 2 so as to output sound from the third audio output port 212 of the second housing 2. Then, as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 3, the fourth side 22 of the second housing 2 is attached to the second side 12 of the first housing 1. That is, the second housing 2 has the third side 21 as the front and the fourth side 22 as the rear, and has the second speaker 123 facing the front. The second speaker 123 is mounted, for example, in a position corresponding to a mesh-like second audio output port 212 (cover), and outputs sound to the outside via the audio output port 212. Thus, the second speaker 123 can be mounted on either the first housing 1 or the second housing 2. When mounted on the first housing 1, it outputs sound from the second audio output port 122 on the second side surface 12, and when mounted on the second housing 2, it outputs sound from the third audio output port 212 on the third side surface 21.

[0024] Furthermore, the mounting positions of the third audio output port 212 and the second speaker 123 are not limited to the positions shown in Figure 3, but may be any position along the third side surface 21 of the second housing 2. For example, the mounting positions of the third audio output port 212 and the second speaker 123 are not limited to the lower part of the second housing 2 hidden by the second display 211 (see Figure 3), but may be the upper, right, or left side of the second housing 2 hidden by the second display 211. Alternatively, the second display 211 may be miniaturized, and the mounting positions of the third audio output port 212 and the second speaker 123 may be the lower, upper, right, or left side of the second housing 2 that is not hidden by the second display 211.

[0025] Furthermore, the second display 211 may not be separate from the second housing 2, but may be incorporated into the second housing 2. For example, the second display 211 may be incorporated into a part of the third side surface 21 of the second housing 2, and the second speaker 123 and the third audio output port 212 may be provided around the second display 211 (below, above, to the right, or to the left).

[0026] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, the second speaker 123 is mounted on the second housing 2 so as to output sound from the third side surface 21, which is the front of the second housing 2. However, the direction in which the second speaker 123 outputs sound is not limited to this. For example, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 may be detachable with the second side, which is the left side of the first housing 1, and the fourth side, which is the right side of the second housing 2, facing each other. In this case, the second speaker 123 is mounted on the second housing 2 so as to output sound from the third side, which is the left side of the second housing 2. Similarly, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 may be detachable, for example, with the second side, which is the right side of the first housing 1, and the fourth side, which is the left side of the second housing 2, facing each other. In this case, the second speaker 123 is mounted on the second housing 2 so as to output sound from the third side, which is the right side of the second housing 2.

[0027] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an information processing system according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the first enclosure 1 includes a processor 13, memory 14, communication interface 15, audio output unit 16, and first device interface 17, etc. The second enclosure 2 includes a second device interface 27.

[0028] The processor 13, acting as the control unit, is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like. The processor 13 performs various processes based on the control program and control data stored in the memory 14. For example, the processor 13 performs product registration and accounting processing according to the mode by executing an application program stored in the memory 14. The processor 13 may also switch between an operation mode, either a first mode that accepts input from a first operator (e.g., a customer) or a second mode that accepts input from a second operator (e.g., a store clerk). The processor 13 also controls the output of audio signals to one or more speakers selected from multiple speakers based on the operation mode and audio output conditions. Furthermore, the processor 13 controls the output of video signals to one or more displays selected from multiple displays based on the setting mode.

[0029] Memory 14 includes ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and NVM (Non-Volatile Memory). ROM and NVM store control programs and control data, etc. RAM functions as work memory and stores temporary data.

[0030] The communication interface 15 communicates with the POS server, receives information from the POS server, and also sends information to the POS server.

[0031] The audio output unit 16 outputs audio signals to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123.

[0032] The first device interface 17 connects to devices such as the first display 111, the cash processing unit 4, the payment terminal 5, the scanner 6, and the printer 7, and transmits information to and receives information from these devices.

[0033] The first device interface 27 connects to a device such as the second display 211, transmits information to this device, and receives information from this device.

[0034] Furthermore, the first device interface 17 and the second device interface 27 are connected by a predetermined cable. This predetermined cable is a set consisting of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable and a display cable.

[0035] [control] Referring to Figures 2 and 5, an example of control when the first enclosure 1 is installed as a standalone unit will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of audio output applied to the first mode when the first enclosure of the information processing system according to the first embodiment is installed as a standalone unit. As shown in Figure 2, the first enclosure 1 is installed. When the first enclosure 1 is installed alone, the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are not connected, and the second enclosure 2 is not attached to the back of the first enclosure 1. When the first enclosure 1 is installed alone, the processor 13 is set to a first mode that accepts operations from a first operator (e.g., a customer) when the information processing system is started. For example, the first mode is a mode in which the customer is responsible for registering and paying for products, and is called the full self-service mode. For example, the customer is responsible for registering products via the scanner 6 which is linked to the display of the first touch panel 111p or the first display 111 of the first enclosure 1, and the customer is responsible for payment via the touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1.

[0036] When the first touch panel 111p receives a request for a first mode, the processor 13 sets the first mode. Based on the audio output conditions (operation input, product registration, payment processing, change processing, and error detection) corresponding to the setting of the first mode, the processor 13 controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123, both mounted on the first housing 1. Based on the control from the processor 13, the audio output unit 16 outputs the audio signal to either the first speaker 113 or the second speaker 123, or to both speakers.

[0037] Refer to Figure 5 to explain the audio output based on the audio output conditions. For example, when the processor 13 receives an operation input via the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1, it outputs an operation sound signal corresponding to the operation input to the first speaker 113 via the audio output unit 16. The operation sound is output from the first speaker 113, which faces the front of the first enclosure 1. A customer facing the first enclosure 1 can hear the operation sound and understand the status of the operation.

[0038] Furthermore, when the processor 13 receives product registration based on the product code input via the scanner 6, it outputs a product registration sound signal corresponding to the product registration to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 via the audio output unit 16. The product registration sound is output from both the first speaker 113, which faces the front of the first enclosure 1, and the second speaker 123, which faces the back of the first enclosure 1. Customers in front of the first enclosure 1 and store staff in the surrounding area, including behind the first enclosure 1, can hear the product registration sound and understand that product registration is in progress. The processor 13 may also set a difference in volume between the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123. For example, the sound output from the first speaker 113, which faces the front of the first enclosure 1, may be set to a first volume, and the sound output from the second speaker 123, which faces the back of the first enclosure 1, may be set to a second volume, which is lower than the first volume.

[0039] Furthermore, when the processor 13 receives a payment process input via the payment terminal 5, it outputs a voice guidance signal corresponding to the payment process to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 via the voice output unit 16. The voice guidance corresponding to the payment process is output from both the first speaker 113, which faces the front of the first enclosure 1, and the second speaker 123, which faces the back of the first enclosure 1. Customers in front of the first enclosure 1 and store staff in the surrounding area, including the back of the first enclosure 1, can hear the voice guidance corresponding to the payment process and understand the status of the payment process. The processor 13 may also set a difference in volume between the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123. For example, the sound output from the first speaker 113, which faces the front of the first enclosure 1, may be set to a first volume, and the sound output from the second speaker 123, which faces the back of the first enclosure 1, may be set to a second volume, which is lower than the first volume.

[0040] Furthermore, when the processor 13 dispenses change during payment processing, it outputs a voice guidance signal corresponding to the dispensed change to the first speaker 113 via the voice output unit 16. The voice guidance corresponding to the dispensed change is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1, and not from the second speaker 123 facing the back of the first enclosure 1. Customers in front of the first enclosure 1 can hear the voice guidance corresponding to the dispensed change and recognize that the change has been dispensed, which helps prevent them from forgetting their change. On the other hand, store employees in the surrounding area, including the back of the first enclosure 1, do not necessarily need to hear the voice guidance corresponding to the dispensed change, so the output of unnecessary sounds can be suppressed.

[0041] Furthermore, when the processor 13 detects an error related to operation input, product registration, or payment processing, it outputs an audio guidance signal corresponding to the error to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 via the audio output unit 16. The audio guidance corresponding to the error is output from both the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123. Customers in front of the first cabinet 1 and store staff in the surrounding area, including behind the first cabinet 1, can hear the audio guidance corresponding to the error and understand the situation of the error. The processor 13 may also set a difference in volume between the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123. For example, the audio output from the first speaker 113 may be set to the second volume, and the audio output from the second speaker 123 may be set to a first volume that is higher than the second volume.

[0042] As described above, by outputting sound from the first speaker 113, or by outputting sound from both the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 depending on the sound output conditions, the speakers can be used according to the usage scenario, enabling effective warning.

[0043] In addition, the above describes an example of audio output applied to the first mode as a full self-service mode when the first enclosure 1 is installed alone. However, even when the first enclosure 1 is installed alone, the processor 13 can switch from the first mode to the second mode. For example, the second mode is a mode in which the customer and the store clerk share the operation of the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1, and is called the same-surface semi-self-service mode. In this case, the processor 13 will use the audio output conditions that are applied to the second mode.

[0044] When the first enclosure 1 is installed as a standalone unit, the audio output conditions applied to the second mode include, for example, the audio output conditions shown in Figure 5, which are set so that no sound is output from the second speaker 123 facing the rear of the first enclosure 1 in any of the situations. In other words, even when the processor 13 accepts product registration or payment processing, or detects some kind of error, it outputs the corresponding audio signal to the first speaker 113 via the audio output unit 16, but does not output the corresponding audio signal to the second speaker 123. The corresponding sound is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1, and not from the second speaker 123 facing the rear of the first enclosure 1. Customers and store clerks facing the first enclosure 1 can hear the sound output from the first speaker 113, thus preventing unnecessary sound output from the second speaker 123.

[0045] Referring to Figures 3 and 6, an example of control when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other will be described. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of audio output applied to the second mode when the first enclosure and the second enclosure of the information processing system according to the first embodiment are installed facing each other. As shown in Figure 3, the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other. The second speaker 123, which is attached to the second enclosure 2, was removed from the first enclosure 1. If the second speaker 123 remains attached to the first enclosure 1, the sound output from the second speaker 123 will be blocked by the back of the second enclosure 2. By attaching the second speaker 123 to the second enclosure 2, the sound output from the second speaker 123 attached to the second enclosure 2 becomes easier to hear. In addition, by moving the second speaker 123 from the first enclosure 1 to the second enclosure 2, the cost of adding a speaker is not required.

[0046] When the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are electrically connected, and the processor 13 of the first enclosure 1 controls the display of the first display 111 via the first device interface 17 and detects input received by the first touch panel 111p. The processor 13 also controls the display of the second display 211 via the first device interface 17 and detects input received by the second touch panel 211p. Furthermore, the processor 13 controls the audio output to the first speaker 113 mounted on the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 mounted on the second enclosure 2 via the audio output unit 16.

[0047] For example, if a store clerk, while looking at the menu screen displayed on the second display 211, specifies a second mode that accepts operations from a second operator (e.g., a store clerk) via the second touch panel 211p, the processor 13 sets the system to the second mode. For example, the second mode is a mode in which the work is divided between a customer operating the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1 and a store clerk operating the second touch panel 211p of the second enclosure 2, and is called a face-to-face semi-self-service mode. For example, the store clerk is responsible for registering products via the scanner 6 linked to the display on the second touch panel 211p of the second enclosure 2 or the second display 211, and the customer is responsible for payment via the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1.

[0048] When the second touch panel 211p receives a request for a second mode, the processor 13 sets the second mode. Based on the audio output conditions (operation input, product registration, payment processing, change processing, and error detection) corresponding to the setting of the second mode, the processor 13 controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker 113 mounted on the first housing 1 and the second speaker 123 mounted on the second housing 2. Based on the control from the processor 13, the audio output unit 16 outputs the audio signal to either the first speaker 113 or the second speaker 123, or to both speakers.

[0049] Refer to Figure 6 to explain the audio output based on the audio output conditions. For example, when the processor 13 receives an operation input via the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1, it outputs an operation sound signal corresponding to the operation input to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 via the audio output unit 16. The operation sound is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1. A customer facing the front of the first enclosure 1 can hear the operation sound and understand the status of the operation.

[0050] Furthermore, when the processor 13 receives an operation input via the second touch panel 211p of the second enclosure 2, it outputs an operation sound signal corresponding to the operation input to the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 via the audio output unit 16. The operation sound is output from the second speaker 123, which faces the front of the second enclosure 2. A store employee facing the second enclosure 2 can hear the operation sound and understand the status of the operation.

[0051] Furthermore, when the processor 13 receives a product registration operation based on a product code input via the scanner 6, which is linked to the display on the second display 211, it outputs a product registration sound signal corresponding to product registration to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 via the audio output unit 16. The product registration sound is output from both the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 facing the front of the second enclosure 2. Customers in front of the first enclosure 1 and store employees in front of the second enclosure 2 can hear the product registration sound and understand that product registration is in progress. The processor 13 may also set a difference in volume between the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2. For example, the sound output from the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 may be set to a first volume, and the sound output from the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 may be set to a second volume, which is higher than the first volume.

[0052] Furthermore, when the processor 13 receives a payment process input via the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1 or the payment terminal 5, it outputs a voice guidance signal corresponding to the payment process to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 via the voice output unit 16. The voice guidance corresponding to the payment process is output from both the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 facing the front of the second enclosure 2. Customers in front of the first enclosure 1 and store employees in front of the second enclosure 2 can hear the voice guidance corresponding to the payment process and understand the status of the payment process. The processor 13 may also set a difference in volume between the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2. For example, the sound output from the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 may be set to a first volume, and the sound output from the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 may be set to a second volume, which is lower than the first volume.

[0053] Furthermore, when the processor 13 dispenses change during payment processing, it outputs a voice guidance signal corresponding to the dispensing of change to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 via the voice output unit 16. The voice guidance corresponding to the dispensing of change is output from the first speaker 113, which faces the front of the first enclosure 1. Customers facing the front of the first enclosure 1 can hear the voice guidance corresponding to the dispensing of change, recognize that the change has been dispensed, and thus help prevent them from forgetting their change.

[0054] Furthermore, when the processor 13 detects an error related to operation input, product registration, or payment processing, it outputs an audio guidance signal corresponding to the error to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 via the audio output unit 16. The audio guidance corresponding to the error is output from both the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 facing the front of the second enclosure 2. Customers in front of the first enclosure 1 and store employees in front of the second enclosure 2 can hear the audio guidance corresponding to the error and understand the situation of the error. In this case, customers and store employees can hear the audio guidance corresponding to the error and understand the situation of the error. Note that in face-to-face semi-self-service mode, since the store employee is in front of the second enclosure 2, the processor 13 may not output the audio guidance signal corresponding to the error to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1, but only to the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2.

[0055] As described above, by outputting sound from the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1, from the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2, or from the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2, the speakers can be used according to the usage scenario, enabling effective warning.

[0056] In the above, we described an example of voice output applied to the second mode, which is a face-to-face semi-self-service mode, when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other. However, even when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, the processor 13 can switch from the second mode to the first mode. For example, the first mode is a mode in which the customer is responsible for registering and paying for products, and is called the full self-service mode. In this case, the processor 13 will use the voice output conditions that are applied to the first mode.

[0057] When the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, the audio output conditions applied to the first mode include, for example, the audio output conditions shown in Figure 6, in which, in the case of error detection, audio is also output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1. In other words, when the processor 13 detects any kind of error, it outputs an audio guidance signal corresponding to the error to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 via the audio output unit 16. The audio guidance corresponding to the error is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 facing the front of the second enclosure 2. Customers facing the first enclosure 1 and surrounding store employees, including those in front of the second enclosure 2, can hear the audio guidance corresponding to the error and understand the situation of the error.

[0058] Furthermore, when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, the processor 13 may, as an audio output condition applicable to the first mode, set the audio output from the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 to a first volume level and the audio output from the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 to a second volume level lower than the first volume level when it receives a product registration operation.

[0059] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of audio output control according to the first embodiment. For example, when the first enclosure 1 is installed as a standalone unit (see Figure 2), the processor 13 checks whether the operating mode is the first mode before the start of trading (ACT 11), and if the operating mode is the first mode (ACT 11, YES), proceeds to ACT 12.

[0060] The audio output when the first enclosure 1 is installed as a standalone unit and the first mode is set is as shown in Figure 5. For example, when the first mode is set, if the processor 13 receives an operation input via the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1 (ACT 12, YES), it selects to output audio to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 based on the received input. The processor 13 outputs an operation sound signal corresponding to the operation input to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 via the audio output unit 16 (ACT 13). The operation sound is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1.

[0061] Furthermore, when the processor 13 executes the dispensing of change (ACT 14, YES), it selects to output audio to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1. The processor 13 outputs an audio guidance signal corresponding to the dispensing of change to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 via the audio output unit 16 (ACT 13). The audio guidance corresponding to the dispensing of change is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1.

[0062] Furthermore, if the processor 13 receives a product registration operation based on a product code input via the scanner 6, or receives a payment process input via the payment terminal 5, or detects an error (ACT 14, NO), it selects to output audio to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 of the first housing 1. The processor 13 outputs a product registration sound signal corresponding to product registration, an audio guidance signal corresponding to payment processing, or an audio guidance signal corresponding to an error to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 of the first housing 1 via the audio output unit 16 (ACT 15). The product registration sound, the audio guidance corresponding to payment processing, or the audio guidance corresponding to an error are output from both the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first housing 1 and the second speaker 123 facing the back of the first housing 1.

[0063] Furthermore, when the backs of the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other (see Figure 3), the second speaker 123 is removed from the first enclosure 1 and attached to the second enclosure 2. In addition, the processor 13 checks whether the operating mode is the first mode before the start of trading (ACT 11), and if the operating mode is not the first mode, i.e., the second mode (ACT 11, NO), it proceeds to ACT 21.

[0064] The audio output when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other and the second mode is set is as shown in Figure 6. For example, when the second mode is set, if the processor 13 receives an operation input via the first touch panel 111p of the first enclosure 1 (ACT21, YES), it selects to output audio to the speaker 113 on the front of the first enclosure 1 based on the received input. The processor 13 outputs an operation sound signal corresponding to the operation input to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 via the audio output unit 16 (ACT22). The operation sound is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1.

[0065] When the second mode is set, the processor 13 receives an operation input via the second touch panel 211p of the second housing 2 (ACT23, YES), and based on the received input, it selects to output audio to the second speaker 123 of the second housing 2. The processor 13 outputs an operation sound signal corresponding to the operation input to the second speaker 123 of the second housing 2 via the audio output unit 16 (ACT24). The operation sound is output from the second speaker 123 facing the front of the second housing 2.

[0066] Furthermore, when the processor 13 executes the dispensing of change (ACT25, YES), it selects to output audio to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1. The processor 13 outputs an audio guidance signal corresponding to the dispensing of change to the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 via the audio output unit 16 (ACT22). The audio guidance corresponding to the dispensing of change is output from the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first enclosure 1.

[0067] Furthermore, if the processor 13 receives a product registration operation based on a product code input via the scanner 6, or receives a payment process input via the payment terminal 5, or detects an error (ACT25, NO), the processor 13 selects to output audio to the first speaker 113 of the first housing 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second housing 2. The processor 13 outputs a product registration sound signal corresponding to product registration, an audio guidance signal corresponding to payment processing, or an audio guidance signal corresponding to an error via the audio output unit 16 to the first speaker 113 of the first housing 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second housing 2 (ACT26). The product registration sound, the audio guidance corresponding to payment processing, or the audio guidance corresponding to an error are output from both the first speaker 113 facing the front of the first housing 1 and the second speaker 123 facing the front of the second housing 2.

[0068] In the flowchart of Figure 7, the processor 13 outputs sound from at least one of the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 based on the setting of the operation mode. However, the processor 13 may also select to output sound from the first speaker 113 when the first touch panel 111p receives input, and select to output sound from the second speaker 123 when the second touch panel 211p receives input, regardless of the operation mode.

[0069] <Second Embodiment> The difference between the information processing system according to the second embodiment and the information processing system according to the first embodiment lies in the speaker configuration. The external layout and installation examples of the standalone enclosure of the information processing system according to the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and therefore, their description is omitted.

[0070] Figure 8 is a schematic side view showing an example of the opposing installation of the first and second enclosures in the information processing system according to the second embodiment. In the system configuration of the first embodiment, a detachable second speaker 123 was described. In the system configuration of the first embodiment, when the first housing 1 is installed alone, the second speaker 123 is mounted so that it faces the rear of the first housing 1. When the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are installed facing each other, the second speaker 123 is removed from the first housing 1 and mounted so that it faces the front of the second housing 2.

[0071] As shown in Figure 8, the information processing system of the second embodiment includes a second speaker 123 mounted facing the rear of the first housing 1 in the Z-axis direction, and a third speaker 223 mounted facing the front of the second housing 2.

[0072] The configuration of the first housing 1 in the second embodiment is basically the same as in the first embodiment, and therefore its description is omitted. Note that the second speaker 123 does not need to be detachable and may be fixed to the first housing 1.

[0073] Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing system according to the second embodiment. The audio output unit 16 is connected to the first speaker 113, the second speaker 123, and the third speaker 223 via audio output lines. For example, the audio output unit 16 is connected to the first speaker 113 via the first audio output line 116, and the audio output unit 16 is connected to the second speaker 123 via the second audio output line 126. In addition, the audio output unit 16 is connected to the third speaker 223 via the third audio output line 136. The third audio output line can be connected between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, or it can be left unconnected.

[0074] When the first enclosure 1 is installed as a standalone unit, the third audio output line 136 is removed from the second enclosure 2. When the first enclosure 1 is installed as a standalone unit, the processor 13 sets the first mode, for example, when the information processing system is started, and outputs audio as shown in Figure 5. That is, when the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 is selected as the audio output destination, an audio signal is output from the audio output unit 16 to the first speaker 113 via the first audio output line 116. Also, when the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 of the first enclosure 1 are selected as the audio output destinations, an audio signal is output from the audio output unit 16 to the first speaker 113 via the first audio output line 116, and an audio signal is output from the audio output unit 16 to the second speaker 123 via the second audio output line 126.

[0075] When the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, the audio output unit 16 of the first enclosure 1 and the third speaker 223 of the second enclosure 2 are connected via the third audio output line 136. When the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, for example, when the first touch panel 111p receives a request for the second mode, the processor 13 sets the second mode and outputs audio as shown in Figure 6. In other words, when the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 is selected as the audio output destination, an audio signal is output from the audio output unit 16 to the first speaker 113 via the first audio output line 116. When the third speaker 223 of the second enclosure 2 is selected as the audio output destination, an audio signal is output from the audio output unit 16 to the third speaker 223 via the third audio output line 136. Furthermore, when the first speaker 113 of the first housing 1 and the third speaker 223 of the second housing 2 are selected as audio output destinations, an audio signal is output from the audio output unit 16 to the first speaker 113 via the first audio output line 116, and an audio signal is also output from the audio output unit 16 to the third speaker 223 via the third audio output line 136.

[0076] In the information processing system, the audio output line may be configured to selectively connect either the second speaker 123 or the third speaker 223. In this case, when the first enclosure 1 is installed alone, the audio output unit 16 and the second speaker 123 are connected by the third audio output line 136, and when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed opposite each other, the audio output unit 16 and the third speaker 223 are connected by the third audio output line 136. The audio output destination may be changed from the second speaker 123 to the third speaker 223, or from the third speaker 223 to the second speaker 123, by switching the third audio output line 136.

[0077] The program according to this embodiment may be transferred while stored in an electronic device constituting an information processing system, or it may be transferred without being stored in an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while stored in a storage medium. The storage medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The storage medium is a computer-readable medium. The storage medium can be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as an optical disc or memory card, and its form is not limited. The electronic device downloads the program transferred (provided) via a network and installs it into memory, or reads the program from the storage medium and installs it into memory.

[0078] The embodiments are summarized below. (1) The information processing system according to the first embodiment comprises a first housing 1 including a first side surface 11 (e.g., front) and a second side surface 12 (e.g., rear), a second housing 2 including a third side surface 21 (e.g., front) and a fourth side surface 22 (e.g., rear), a first speaker 113 that outputs sound from a first audio output port 112 on the first side surface 11, a second speaker 123 that can be attached to either the first housing 1 or the second housing 2, which outputs sound from a second audio output port 122 on the second side surface 12 when attached to the first housing 1, and outputs sound from a third audio output port 212 on the third side surface 21 when attached to the second housing 2, and a control unit (e.g., processor 13) that controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123, wherein the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are detachable when the second side surface 12 of the first housing 1 and the fourth side surface 22 of the second housing 2 are facing each other. For example, when the first enclosure 1 is installed alone, the information processing system according to the first embodiment can output sound from at least one of the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the first enclosure 1 by attaching the second speaker 123 to the first enclosure 1. On the other hand, for example, when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, the information processing system according to the first embodiment can output sound from at least one of the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the second enclosure 2 by removing the second speaker 123 from the first enclosure 1 and attaching it to the second enclosure 2. Therefore, according to the information processing system according to the first embodiment, the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 can be used depending on the scene in which they are used. By moving the second speaker 123 from the first enclosure 1 to the second enclosure 2, the cost of adding speakers is eliminated, and the sound output from the second speaker 123 in the first enclosure 1 is not obstructed by the second enclosure 2, allowing for clear sound output to the surroundings.

[0079] (2) The information processing system according to the first embodiment includes a first display 111 located on the first side surface 11 of the first housing 1, a second display 211 located on the third side surface 21 of the second housing 2, a first input receiving unit (e.g., a first touch panel 111p, a cash processing unit 4, a payment terminal 5, or a scanner 6) that receives input corresponding to the display on the first display 111, and a second input receiving unit (e.g., a second touch panel 211p, a cash processing unit 4, a payment terminal 5, or a scanner 6) that receives input corresponding to the display on the second display 211, and a control unit (e.g., a processor 13) selects an audio output from the first speaker 113 based on the input received by the first input receiving unit, and selects an audio output from the second speaker 123 based on the input received by the second input receiving unit. According to the information processing system of the first embodiment, the control unit selects audio output from the first speaker 113 when the first input receiving unit receives input corresponding to the display on the first display 111, regardless of the operation mode, and selects audio output from the second speaker 123 when the second input receiving unit receives input corresponding to the display on the second display 211, thereby simplifying the processing flow.

[0080] (3) Furthermore, in the information processing system according to the first embodiment, the control unit (e.g., processor 13) can switch the operation mode to either a first mode (e.g., full self mode) that accepts operations from a first operator (e.g., customer) or a second mode (e.g., same-sided semi-self mode, face-to-face semi-self mode) that accepts operations from a second operator (e.g., store clerk), and controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 attached to the first housing 1 based on the setting of either the first mode or the second mode, and controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 attached to the second housing 2 based on the setting of either the first mode or the second mode. According to the information processing system of the first embodiment, based on the setting of the operation mode, the first speaker 113 and the second speaker 123 attached to the first housing 1, or the first speaker 113 attached to the first housing 1 and the second speaker 123 attached to the second housing 2 can be used depending on the scene of use.

[0081] (4) The information processing system according to the second embodiment comprises a first housing 1 including a first side surface 11 and a second side surface 12, a second housing 2 including a third side surface 21 and a fourth side surface 22, a first speaker 113 that outputs sound from a first audio output port 112 on the first side surface 11, a second speaker 123 that outputs sound from a second audio output port 122 on the second side surface 12, a third speaker 223 that outputs sound from a third audio output port 212 on the third side surface 21, and a control unit that controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker 113, the second speaker 123, and the third speaker 223, wherein the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are detachable when the second side surface 12 of the first housing 1 and the fourth side surface 22 of the second housing 2 are facing each other. For example, when the first enclosure 1 is installed alone, the information processing system according to the second embodiment can output sound from at least one of the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the second speaker 123 of the first enclosure 1. On the other hand, when the first enclosure 1 and the second enclosure 2 are installed facing each other, the information processing system according to the second embodiment can output sound from at least one of the first speaker 113 of the first enclosure 1 and the third speaker 223 of the second enclosure 2. Therefore, according to the information processing system according to the second embodiment, the first speaker 113, the second speaker 123, and the third speaker 223 can be used depending on the scene in which they are used.

[0082] 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]

[0083] 1…First cabinet 2...Second cabinet 3…Third cabinet 4…Cash Processing Unit 5…Payment terminal 6…Scanner 7…Printer 11…1st side 12…Second side 13… Processor 14…Memory 15…Communication Interface 16…Audio output section 17…First device interface 21…Third side 22…Fourth side 27…Second device interface 111…First display 111p…First touch panel 112...First audio output port 113...First speaker 116…First audio output line 122...Second audio output port 123...Second speaker 126...Second audio output line 136...Third audio output line 211...Second display 211p…Second touch panel 212...Third audio output port 223... Third speaker

Claims

1. A first enclosure including a first side and a second side, A second enclosure including the third and fourth sides, A first speaker that outputs sound from the first audio output port on the first side, A second speaker that can be attached to either the first housing or the second housing, which outputs sound from a second audio output port on the second side when attached to the first housing, and outputs sound from a third audio output port on the third side when attached to the second housing, A control unit that controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker and the second speaker, Equipped with, An information processing system in which the first housing and the second housing are detachable when the second side surface of the first housing and the fourth side surface of the second housing are facing each other.

2. A first display is positioned on the first side of the first housing, A second display is positioned on the third side of the second housing, A first input receiving unit that receives input in response to the display on the first display, It includes a second input receiving unit that receives input in response to the display on the second display, The control unit, Based on the input received by the first input receiving unit, the audio output from the first speaker is selected. Based on the input received by the second input receiving unit, the audio output from the second speaker is selected. The information processing system according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, The operating mode can be switched between a first mode that accepts input from a first operator and a second mode that accepts input from a second operator. Based on the setting of either the first mode or the second mode, the output of audio signals to the first speaker and the second speaker mounted on the first housing is controlled. The information processing system according to claim 1, which controls the output of an audio signal to the first speaker and the second speaker mounted on the second housing, based on the setting of either the first mode or the second mode.

4. A first enclosure including a first side and a second side, A second enclosure including the third and fourth sides, A first speaker that outputs sound from the first audio output port on the first side, A second speaker that outputs sound from the second audio output port on the second side, A third speaker that outputs sound from the third audio output port on the third side, A control unit that controls the output of audio signals to the first speaker, the second speaker, and the third speaker, Equipped with, An information processing system in which the first housing and the second housing are detachable when the second side surface of the first housing and the fourth side surface of the second housing are facing each other.

5. A first enclosure including a first side and a second side, A second enclosure including the third and fourth sides, A first speaker that outputs sound from the first audio output port on the first side, A second speaker that can be attached to either the first housing or the second housing, which outputs sound from a second audio output port on the second side when attached to the first housing, and outputs sound from a third audio output port on the third side when attached to the second housing, A first display is positioned on the first side of the first housing, A second display is positioned on the third side of the second housing, A first input receiving unit that receives input in response to the display on the first display, A second input receiving unit that receives input in response to the display on the second display, Equipped with, With the second side of the first housing and the fourth side of the second housing facing each other, the first housing and the second housing are detachable, and a computer that controls an information processing system is provided. Based on the input received by the first input receiving unit, the audio output to the first speaker is selected, Based on the input received by the second input receiving unit, the audio output to the second speaker is selected, A program to execute.

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