Payment device and payment system

Abstract

To improve the convenience of self-checkout systems. [Solution] The payment device is a payment device in which a customer pays for the goods to be purchased, and comprises: an operation reception unit that receives operations from the customer; an imaging unit positioned above the operation reception unit that images the customer performing the operation; and a display unit positioned above the imaging unit that displays the image captured by the imaging unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a settlement device and a settlement system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in various stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores, transactions are conducted using a POS terminal device (Point Of Sales). The POS terminal device performs product registration processing and settlement processing. In addition to those where store clerks register products and perform settlement, there is also a so-called self-checkout where customers themselves operate to register products and perform settlement (see, for example, 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, in the prior art, since customers themselves perform operations related to settlement and bagging, and monitoring by store clerks is required, the operation efficiency may deteriorate, and the convenience of self-checkout may be low.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and its object is to provide a technology capable of improving the convenience of self-checkout.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a payment device in which a customer pays for purchased goods, and is characterized by comprising: an operation reception unit that receives operations from the customer; an imaging unit positioned above the operation reception unit that images the customer performing the operation; and a display unit positioned above the imaging unit that displays the image captured by the imaging unit.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a settlement system comprising a settlement device in which a customer settles the payment for purchased goods, and a transaction status management device that monitors the settlement device, wherein the settlement device comprises an operation reception unit that receives operations from the customer, an imaging unit positioned above the operation reception unit and imaging the customer performing the operation, a display unit positioned above the imaging unit and displaying the image captured by the imaging unit, a transmission unit that transmits the image captured by the imaging unit to the transaction status management device, and a detection unit that detects errors, and the transaction status management device comprises a display unit that displays imaging information when the detection unit detects the error. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of a POS (Point of Sales) system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the external appearance of the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the external appearance of the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 4] This block diagram shows an example of the hardware configuration of a POS terminal device 20. [Figure 5A] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a work support rack 241. [Figure 5B] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of how to use the work support rack 241. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a product master 600 stored by the store controller 10. [Figure 7] This block diagram shows an example of the hardware configuration of the transaction status management device 11. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the monitoring monitor 215. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 705 of the transaction status management device 11. [Figure 10] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the detailed screen 1000 displayed on the transaction status management device 11. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of the product registration process performed by the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 12] This flowchart shows an example of the product registration process performed by the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows an example of emergency error handling performed by the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 14] This flowchart shows an example of the semi-urgent error handling performed by the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 15] This flowchart shows an example of the processing performed by the transaction status management device 11. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] (Embodiment) (Network configuration of POS system 1) Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of a POS (Point of Sales) system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. POS system 1 is an example of a settlement system. POS system 1 is installed in various stores such as supermarkets, home centers, convenience stores, and general merchandise stores. The POS system 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises a store controller 10, a transaction status management device 11, and POS terminal devices 20 (20-1 to 20-n (n≧1)). Each device is connected via LAN 55 for communication. Each device is a computer device equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), a communication unit, etc.

[0010] The store controller 10 stores various information necessary for transactions, such as the product master 600 (see Figure 6). The product master 600 is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, sales price, and product weight for each product. The product master 600 also includes product identification information, product name, and unit price of products that require weighing (products subject to weighing). In addition to the product master 600, the store controller 10 also stores various other information such as inventory status, sales history, deposit and withdrawal records, and member information.

[0011] The transaction status management device 11 is a device used by a store employee (supervising employee) to monitor the POS terminal device 20. Specifically, the transaction status management device 11 can display the status of the POS terminal device 20 (operating mode, processing status, etc.) and control the POS terminal device 20. In the POS system 1, one store employee is assigned to the transaction status management device 11, and this employee (supervising employee) monitors the POS terminal device 20 and the customers.

[0012] The POS terminal device 20 is an example of a settlement device. The POS terminal device 20 is operated by a customer. The POS terminal device 20 can operate in any one of a plurality of operation modes. The operation modes mentioned here are the full self mode and the accounting dedicated mode.

[0013] The full self mode is a mode in which the customer registers products on the device itself and the customer performs settlement on the device itself. The accounting dedicated mode is a mode in which settlement information of products registered in a registration device where a store clerk registers products is acquired, and self settlement is performed.

[0014] Note that the operation mode may include a store clerk registration mode in addition to these modes. The store clerk registration mode is a mode in which a store clerk registers products. In the store clerk registration mode, settlement (self settlement) is performed on another POS terminal device 20 based on the product information registered on the device itself. Self settlement means that settlement is performed by a customer on the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting dedicated mode. When performing self settlement, the settlement information generated by the POS terminal device 20 in the store clerk registration mode is acquired by the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting dedicated mode, and settlement using the settlement information is performed on the POS terminal device 20 in the accounting dedicated mode.

[0015] Note that it is also possible for the POS terminal device 20 to include a display unit on the store clerk side and a display unit on the customer side. In this case, in the store clerk registration mode, settlement (face-to-face settlement) may be performed on the device itself. Face-to-face settlement means that settlement is performed by a customer on the device itself. Note that it is not necessary for the customer to perform settlement by himself / herself. That is, a store clerk may receive cash or the like from the customer and perform settlement by the store clerk.

[0016] Also, the POS system 1 may include a store clerk terminal possessed by a store clerk. The store clerk terminal can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. Also, the store clerk terminal can receive information indicating that the store clerk is called from the POS terminal device 20 or the transaction status management device 11 and display the same.

[0017] (Example configuration of POS terminal device 20) Next, we will explain an example configuration of the POS terminal device 20 using Figures 2 to 4. Figures 2 and 3 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the external appearance of the POS terminal device 20. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. The same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in Figures 2 to 4.

[0018] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the POS terminal device 20. Figure 3(A) shows a front view of the POS terminal device 20. Figure 3(B) shows a side view of the POS terminal device 20. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, an upstream counter 231 and a downstream counter 232 are positioned on either side of the POS terminal device 20. Products awaiting registration and shopping baskets containing those products are placed on the upstream counter 231. Products that have been registered and shopping bags containing those products are placed on the downstream counter 232.

[0019] The downstream counter 232 is included in the work support system 240. In addition to the downstream counter 232, the work support system 240 includes a weighing scale 210, a work support rack 241, and a voucher storage unit 242. The weighing scale 210 is placed on the downstream counter 232. The work support rack 241 is placed on top of the weighing scale 210 and is a rack that assists with tasks such as bagging registered products. The voucher storage unit 242 is located below the downstream counter 232 and collects used vouchers. Details of the work support rack 241 and the voucher storage unit 242 will be described later. A spare parts storage unit 243 for storing spare parts such as receipt paper is located at the bottom of the device housing 20a of the POS terminal device 20.

[0020] The following describes an example configuration of the POS terminal device 20 shown in Figure 4, with reference to Figures 2 and 3. The POS terminal device 20 includes a CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, hard disk 204, customer-side display unit 205, customer-side scanner unit 206, card payment unit 208, change dispenser 209, weighing device 210, audio output unit 211, communication unit 212, printing unit 213, camera 214, monitoring monitor 215, and signpost 216. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0021] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the POS terminal device 20 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 202. These various programs include the display control program according to this embodiment. ROM202 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU201, including programs.

[0022] RAM203 is a read-and-write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM203 stores information obtained from external sources (such as product master data obtained from the store controller 10) and information generated during various processes. Specifically, the information generated during various processes includes registration information generated during the registration process for registering products, and settlement information generated during the settlement process for settling registered products.

[0023] The hard disk 204 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 204 stores the imaging results (e.g., video) captured by the camera 214. The hard disk 204 may store various programs executed by the CPU 201 instead of the ROM 202. Alternatively, the hard disk 204 may store information acquired from external sources or information generated during processing instead of the RAM 203.

[0024] The customer-side display unit 205 is an example of an operation reception unit. The customer-side display unit 205 is mounted on a device housing 20a of a predetermined width W (see Figure 3(A)). The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers. The customer-side display unit 205 displays various information to the customer and accepts various inputs from the customer. Specifically, the customer-side display unit 205 accepts operations related to product registration and operations related to payment. In addition, the customer-side display unit 205 accepts changes to the operating mode on a maintenance screen for store staff.

[0025] The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers and optically reads various types of information. Various types of information can also be read by imaging with the camera 214. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 206 optically reads barcodes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.) printed on payment slips (registered trademarks). The customer-side scanner unit 206 also reads codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, discount vouchers) and various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.). Gift certificates include those printed on paper and those displayed on electronic media. Gift certificates displayed on electronic media include, for example, electronic coupons displayed on a customer's smartphone. Note that customer-side product registration is not limited to code reading by the customer-side scanner unit 206. For example, the customer-side display unit 205 can display a preset key (a button to order the product) corresponding to the product, and the customer can register the product by operating (pressing) the preset key.

[0026] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism that accepts various types of cards (credit cards, prepaid cards such as transportation cards, point cards, etc.). The card payment unit 208 includes a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit. The card recognition unit reads information from various cards magnetically or electrically. The read information is used for settling registered products. The card recognition unit can also recognize information used in settling registered products, such as when using points held on a point card. Furthermore, the card recognition unit can also recognize information not used in settling registered products, such as when awarding points to a point card.

[0027] The card payment unit 208 in this embodiment includes a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit, but is not limited to these; it is sufficient to include at least a card recognition unit. Furthermore, the card recognition unit in this embodiment may be compatible with contact-type cards (IC cards, magnetic cards) or contactless-type cards (IC cards).

[0028] The change dispenser 209 is a cash payment mechanism and has an input slot for banknotes and coins, and an output slot for banknotes and coins. The change dispenser 209 calculates the amount to be inserted into the input slot, calculates the change amount which is the difference between the inserted amount and the purchase amount, and dispenses the change from the output slot. The change dispenser 209 is facing the customer and accepts various operations and cash insertions from the customer. The change dispenser 209 also has a sensor that detects banknotes and coins inserted into the input slot. This sensor detects that banknotes and coins have been inserted into the input slot, and also detects the number of items of each denomination.

[0029] The weighing device 210 is positioned on the downstream counter 232 and detects the weight of registered products. A weighing pan 210a is placed on top of the weighing device 210. The weighing pan 210a is equipped with a stopper 210b. The stopper 210b prevents products or baskets placed on the weighing pan 210a from falling off. In addition, a weighing guard 232a is provided on the customer side of the downstream counter 232 to prevent the operator (customer) from touching it and inadvertently measuring the load.

[0030] The weighing scale 210 weighs the weight excluding the weight of the weighing pan 210a and the work support rack 241. Furthermore, if shopping bags are hung on the work support rack 241 or a shopping basket is placed on the weighing pan 210a, the weighing scale 210 weighs the weight excluding these items. In the illustration, the downstream counter 232 and the weighing pan 210a are sized to accommodate a shopping bag or similar item equivalent to one shopping basket. However, they may be sized to accommodate shopping bags or similar items equivalent to two or more shopping baskets. Additionally, multiple downstream counters 232 may be arranged side-by-side, and multiple weighing scales 210 may be placed in the same configuration.

[0031] When a product is registered, the POS terminal 20 queries the store controller 10 for the weight of that product. The POS terminal 20 performs a weighing determination to determine whether the queried weight matches the increased weight measured by the weighing scale 210. If the weighing determination shows a match, the terminal determines that the registration was successful and the product has been placed on the downstream counter 232. On the other hand, if the weighing determination shows a mismatch, the POS terminal 20 determines that there is a weighing error. The POS terminal 20 also determines that there is a weighing error if the weight measured by the weighing scale 210 changes even though the product has not been registered.

[0032] The audio output unit 211 outputs sound. For example, the audio output unit 211 outputs voice guidance or warning sounds. The voice guidance and warning sounds are related to, for example, product registration or payment. The communication unit 212 is an interface for sending and receiving information with other devices (store controller 10, transaction status management device 11, and other POS terminal devices 20). The printing unit 213 prints and outputs various media (receipts, payment slips, etc.). The printing unit 213 can change the direction of the media output slot.

[0033] Camera 214 is an example of an imaging unit. Camera 214 is mounted on the top of the customer-side display unit 205. Camera 214 captures video or still images. Camera 214 can be a CCD (charge coupled device) camera or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) camera. Camera 214 is also equipped with a fisheye lens or a wide-angle lens to capture customers over a wide area.

[0034] Specifically, camera 214 captures images of the customer's actions when registering products. More specifically, camera 214 captures images of the inside of the shopping baskets (products) on the counters located on both sides of the POS terminal 20, as well as the customer's actions when registering products. In addition, camera 214 captures images of the customer's actions when making a payment. Specifically, camera 214 captures images of the banknotes and coins held by the customer, as well as the change dispenser 209 and hand movements.

[0035] The camera 214 should be positioned in a location that can capture customer operations clearly. For example, the camera 214 may be positioned so as to protrude from the customer-side display unit 205 toward the customer (towards the front). Also, from the viewpoint of capturing the actions during payment more clearly, the camera 214 may be positioned facing the change machine 209 (cash slot) so as to capture images centered on the change machine 209.

[0036] Camera 214 continuously takes images while the system is running. The images captured by camera 214 are stored as recordings on the hard disk 204. The recording period is, for example, the period from when the start of product registration is accepted until the customer receives the receipt and leaves the POS terminal 20. Whether or not there is a customer in front of the POS terminal 20 may be determined, for example, by a motion sensor (not shown). However, camera 214 may record only the period during which a customer is in front of the POS terminal 20.

[0037] Furthermore, the captured images may be recorded continuously. That is, the captured images may be recorded continuously regardless of whether a transaction has taken place or whether there is a customer in front of the POS terminal 20. If continuous recording is performed, the POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a function to delete unnecessary parts. This function, for example, saves the period from 5 seconds before the start of registration is accepted until 5 seconds have passed since the receipt was taken out, and deletes everything else. This allows the captured images to be stored from 5 seconds before the start of registration is accepted.

[0038] The images captured by camera 214 can be used as surveillance images to monitor customers making payments. These images can be used, for example, to verify the amount actually deposited or as evidence. For example, suppose a customer deposits a 1,000 yen bill into the change machine 209, but then complains, "I deposited a 10,000 yen bill, but I didn't get enough change." In this case, the change machine 209 records that a 1,000 yen bill was deposited. However, the change machine 209 may malfunction or misinterpret the transaction. Therefore, the store clerk can verify the denominations of money actually deposited by the customer by examining the captured images. The store clerk can also present these images to the customer as evidence.

[0039] The monitoring monitor 215 is an example of a display unit. The monitoring monitor 215 is mounted above the customer-side display unit 205. The monitoring monitor 215 is positioned higher than the camera 214. Specifically, the monitoring monitor 215 is positioned at approximately the same height as the sign pole 216. This allows the monitoring staff to simultaneously check both the monitoring monitor 215 and the sign pole 216. Furthermore, the monitoring monitor 215 and the camera 214 are positioned within a predetermined width W of the device housing 20a in which the customer-side display unit 205 is installed.

[0040] The surveillance monitor 215 displays real-time images captured by the camera 214 and images (recordings) stored on the hard disk 204. The surveillance monitor 215 generally displays real-time video at all times. By continuously displaying real-time video, customers using the POS terminal 20 can be made aware that they are being recorded, thereby enhancing the deterrent effect against fraud. The surveillance monitor 215 may also display still images.

[0041] Furthermore, the monitoring monitor 215 is positioned above the camera 214. The monitoring monitor 215's display screen orientation can be changed to any direction in the up, down, left, or right directions. For this reason, the monitoring monitor 215 is oriented towards the transaction status management device 11 (monitoring employee). Because the monitoring monitor 215 is positioned above and oriented towards the transaction status management device 11, employees who are far from the POS terminal device 20 (monitoring employees standing in front of the transaction status management device 11) can also monitor the customer's series of operations. In addition, if an error occurs, the monitoring monitor 215 can display a recording of the series of operations performed by the customer, or a recording of the moment the error occurred. Furthermore, the monitoring monitor 215 may have a larger screen than the customer-side display unit 205. This improves visibility for monitoring employees at a distance and further enhances the deterrent effect of surveillance.

[0042] The sign pole 216 is attached to the device housing 20a. The sign pole 216 is positioned above the customer-side display unit 205 so as not to interfere with the monitoring monitor 215. The sign pole 216 is equipped with a light-emitting part. The light-emitting part of the sign pole 216 is, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode) and can light up in a predetermined color and predetermined lighting pattern. The predetermined lighting patterns include a lighting pattern indicating standby (e.g., solid green), a lighting pattern indicating use (e.g., blinking green), a lighting pattern to call a staff member, such as when change or receipt paper is near the end (e.g., blinking yellow), and a lighting pattern indicating insufficient change or an abnormality (e.g., blinking red). The lighting pattern indicating use may be a more detailed lighting pattern; for example, the lighting pattern indicating payment in progress and the lighting pattern indicating product registration may be different. Furthermore, since the sign pole 216 is positioned above the customer-side display unit 205, staff members who are not near the POS terminal device 20 can also recognize the lighting patterns.

[0043] A numbered tag 216a is provided at the bottom of the sign pole 216. The numbered tag 216a is a number assigned to each POS terminal device 20. The sign pole 216 and the numbered tag 216a are integrated and can be rotated as needed. Regardless of which orientation the sign pole 216 and the monitoring monitor 215 are rotated in, they are positioned so as not to interfere with each other. It is also possible for the POS terminal device 20 to have a display unit for staff in addition to the customer-side display unit 205. In this case as well, the sign pole 216 and the monitoring monitor 215 are positioned so as not to interfere with each other, nor with the staff-side display unit.

[0044] (An example of the work support rack 241) Figure 5A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a work support rack 241. Figure 5A(A) shows a front view of the work support rack 241 as seen from the customer's side. Figure 5A(B) shows a perspective view of the work support rack 241. As shown in Figure 5A, the work support rack 241 comprises a base 410, a frame 420, side arms 430, a roll holder 440, and a temporary storage platform 450.

[0045] The base section 410 includes a flat section 411 that serves as the base for the work support rack 241. The flat section 411 is attached to the weighing pan 210a. The frame 420 includes a pair of vertical members 421 that extend from the base section 410 in the height direction (e.g., vertical direction). The side arms 430 include a pair of horizontal members 431 that extend laterally (e.g., horizontal direction) from a portion of the frame 420 between its lower and upper ends. The horizontal members 431 are provided with shopping bag hooks 432 for hanging shopping bags.

[0046] The roll holder 440 includes a roll member 441 provided between a pair of horizontal members 431. The roll member 441 is a holder portion that penetrates the core of the poly bag roll and attaches the poly bag roll. The roll holder 440 also includes a cutter portion 442. The cutter portion 442 is a component for cutting multiple continuous poly bags that form a poly bag roll at predetermined cut portions.

[0047] The temporary storage stand 450 includes a top plate 451 connected to the upper end of the base 410. The top plate 451 is positioned horizontally, allowing for the temporary placement of goods. The goods placed on it are those that have been registered and will be placed on top of the shopping bag, such as low-load items like eggs or bread.

[0048] To elaborate on the positional relationship of the roll holder 440, it is located below the temporary storage stand 450 and behind the shopping bag hook 432. In the illustration, the roll holder 440 is attached to a pair of horizontal members 431, but it is not limited to this and may also be attached to a pair of vertical members 421.

[0049] (Example of use of the work support rack 241) Figure 5B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the use of the work support rack 241. As shown in Figure 5B, a shopping bag 500 is hung on the shopping bag hook 432. Behind the shopping bag 500, a roll of plastic bags 510 attached to the roll member 441 is placed. Products 520 such as bread and eggs are placed on the temporary storage table 450.

[0050] Once the customer has finished registering high-load items such as beverages and boxed goods, they sequentially pack the registered items into the shopping bag 500. Similarly, once the customer has finished registering unpackaged items such as fresh produce or loose items, they cut a plastic bag roll 510, place the items in the plastic bags, and then pack them into the shopping bag 500. For low-load items such as eggs and bread, after the customer has finished registering the items, they temporarily place them on the temporary stand 450 and then place the items on top of the shopping bag 500.

[0051] According to the work support rack 241 of this embodiment, the area below the temporary storage table 450 can be effectively utilized. Also, since the plastic bag roll 510 is located behind the shopping bag 500 from the customer's perspective, the customer can smoothly perform a series of actions such as taking a plastic bag and putting it into the shopping bag 500. In other words, the customer can smoothly register the products and bag them. Therefore, since registration and bagging can be done quickly, transactions can be completed quickly. This improves the operational efficiency of the POS terminal device 20.

[0052] In some stores, to make it easier for customers to use plastic bags, store employees may pre-open plastic bags by hand and place them in designated locations. However, some customers are concerned about hygiene when using plastic bags that have already been opened. In contrast, in this embodiment, since plastic bags taken from the plastic bag roll 510 are used, that is, plastic bags that have been opened for the first time are used, even customers who are concerned about hygiene can use the plastic bags with peace of mind.

[0053] (An example of product master 600) Next, we will explain the product master 600 using Figure 6. Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a product master 600 stored by the store controller 10. In Figure 6, the product master 600 includes the following items: "product code," "product name," "unit price," "tax rate," "weight," "products eligible for plastic bags," and "products requiring staff verification." By storing information in each item, the product information for each product is stored as a record in the product master 600.

[0054] "Product codes" include, for example, JAN (Japanese Article Number) codes and in-store barcodes. A JAN code, for example, consists of 13 digits and is a code that can identify a business and a product. An in-store barcode is a uniquely numbered barcode used for product management within a store.

[0055] "Product name" is the name of the product. "Unit price" is the selling price per unit of product sold (for example, per item). In the diagram, "unit price" is assumed to be for fixed-price products sold in fixed quantities. Products sold by weight are also stored in product master 600. In the case of products sold by weight, "unit price" can be, for example, the selling price per 100g (grams).

[0056] "Tax rate" refers to the consumption tax rate, which is, for example, either 8% or 10%. "Weight (g)" refers to the weight of one item, and is the weight used for weight inspection. "Products requiring plastic bags" indicate whether a product is likely to be packed in a plastic bag or not. Products likely to require plastic bags include fresh foods such as sashimi and unpackaged products such as loose fruits and vegetables. When the POS terminal 20 registers a "product requiring plastic bags," it notifies the customer of a recommendation to use a plastic bag.

[0057] "Items requiring staff verification" include items related to "age verification," "medicine," and "security tags." "Age verification" indicates whether or not the product requires age verification from the customer. Products requiring age verification include, for example, alcohol and tobacco, which cannot be purchased by minors. "Pharmaceuticals" refers to products classified as pharmaceuticals and that require explanation from a pharmacist. A "security tag" indicates a product that has a security tag attached, and it is used to identify products that are worth a certain amount or more if they are shoplifted, as these items are likely to result in significant losses. When the POS terminal device 20 registers an "item requiring staff verification," it performs a process to call a staff member as an error.

[0058] (Hardware configuration of the transaction status management device 11) Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the transaction status management device 11. The transaction status management device 11 comprises a CPU 701, a ROM 702, a RAM 703, a hard disk 704, a display unit 705, a scanner unit 706, an audio output unit 707, and a communication unit 708. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0059] The CPU 701 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the transaction status management device 11 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 702. These various programs include the display control program according to this embodiment. ROM702 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU701, including programs.

[0060] RAM703 is a read-and-write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM703 stores information obtained from external sources and information generated during various processes.

[0061] The hard disk 704 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 704 stores the imaging results (e.g., video) captured by each POS terminal device 20. The hard disk 704 may also store various programs executed by the CPU 701, instead of the ROM 702.

[0062] The display unit 705 is a touch display. The display unit 705 displays various information to the monitoring staff and also accepts various inputs from the monitoring staff. The display unit 705 can also accept requests to change the operating mode of the POS terminal device 20. The scanner unit 706 is a scanner unit for monitoring store employees and optically reads various types of information. For example, the scanner unit 706 optically reads the employee code attached to the employee's name tag.

[0063] The audio output unit 707 outputs sound. For example, the audio output unit 707 outputs an alert sound indicating that a store employee has been called. The communication unit 708 is an interface for sending and receiving information with other devices (store controller 10 and each POS terminal device 20).

[0064] The transaction status management device 11 may also include a card payment unit, a change dispenser, and a printing unit. In other words, the transaction status management device 11 may be configured to register and settle products in the same way as the POS terminal device 20.

[0065] (Example of the screen of monitoring monitor 215) Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the monitoring monitor 215. As shown in Figure 8(A), the monitoring monitor 215 normally displays the screen 800. The normal screen 800 includes a real-time image 801. The real-time image 801 includes a real-time customer image and a real-time POS terminal device image. When a customer operates the POS terminal device 20, they can look at the monitoring monitor 215 above to confirm that their hand movements and face are being displayed. This makes the customer feel as if they are being monitored from above, thereby increasing the deterrent effect against fraud. Although not shown, the area displayed by the monitoring monitor 215 includes the area where shopping baskets placed on the upstream counter 231 are located, and the area where shopping bags and plastic bag rolls are placed on the downstream counter 232.

[0066] (Regarding errors and the functional configuration of the POS terminal device 20) Here, the error and the functional configuration of the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the POS terminal device 20 includes a detection unit, a display control unit, and a transmission unit. The detection unit, the display control unit, and the transmission unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 realizes the function of each unit by executing a predetermined program (display control program).

[0067] In this embodiment, examples of errors include those exemplified below (1) to (13). (1) Do not scan the product, but place it on the weighing scale 210. (2) Placing a different product on the weighing scale 210 than the scanned product. (3) Place more items on the weighing scale 210 than the items scanned. (4) Leaving the transaction unattended during settlement or not operating the device for a specified period of time (elapsed waiting time). (5) The registration process is left unattended, or the system is not operated for a specified period of time (elapsed waiting time). (6) The staff call button is pressed. (7) Forgetting to take your change. (8) The inability to pay by credit card. (9) The pending items are registered. (10) The use of a gift certificate that requires verification by a store employee. (11) Insufficient change or torn receipt paper (end of the envelope). (12) When there is only a small amount of change or receipt paper left (near end). (13) Running out of plastic bag rolls or having only a few left. Note that the items on hold shown in (9) are items that require verification by a store employee. For example, items on hold include unscanned items, non-filed items, items requiring age verification, items requiring removal of security tags, and pharmaceuticals.

[0068] The above (1) to (11) are high-urgency errors (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "urgent errors"), and the above (12) and (13) are less urgent errors (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "semi-urgent errors").

[0069] The detection unit detects errors. The detection unit detects emergency errors based on the detection results of various sensors provided by the POS terminal device 20, various information input to the POS terminal device 20, and the status of the POS terminal device 20. For example, with respect to (1) to (3) above, the detection unit performs a weighing determination to determine whether the weight measured by the weighing device 210 matches the weight indicated by the weight information extracted from the product master 600, and detects an emergency error if the weighing determination results in a mismatch. Furthermore, with respect to (1) to (7) above, the detection unit may also detect emergency errors by analyzing the captured image taken by the camera 214.

[0070] Furthermore, the detection unit detects a semi-urgent error when a predetermined waiting time has elapsed for (4) and (5) above. The predetermined waiting time is a set amount of time, which is the time from the last time an operation is accepted until no operation is performed. Regarding (4) above, from the standpoint of preventing customers from leaving the store without making a payment, the waiting time at the time of payment may be shorter than the waiting time at the time of registration (as in (5) above). Also, regarding (5) above, the predetermined waiting time at the time of registration may differ depending on whether the product is subject to being placed in a plastic bag or not. For example, taking into account the time it takes to put the product into a plastic bag, the waiting time t2 for products subject to being placed in a plastic bag may be longer than the waiting time t1 for products that are not subject to being placed in a plastic bag.

[0071] Regarding (8) above, the detection unit detects an emergency error based on the credit card reading result and the communication result with the credit card server. Also, regarding (9) and (10) above, the detection unit detects an emergency error based on the barcode information attached to the product or gift certificate. Regarding (11) and (12) above, the detection unit detects an error based on the detection results of various sensors equipped in the POS terminal device 20 and the calculation results such as the number of coins.

[0072] Furthermore, with respect to (13) above, the detection unit can detect the presence or absence of the polybag roll 510 supported by the roll holder 440 and the remaining amount by analyzing the imaging results of the camera 214. However, the results of detecting the presence or absence of the polybag roll 510 and the remaining amount are not limited to being obtained based on the imaging results of the camera 214. For example, if the work support rack 241 is equipped with a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of the polybag roll 510 and the remaining amount, the detection results may be obtained from that sensor. In addition, the detection unit may detect a quasi-urgent error when the remaining amount of polybag roll 510 is low, and an emergency error when the remaining amount of polybag roll 510 is gone.

[0073] Furthermore, the detection unit can also detect, via the customer-side scanner unit 206, that the customer is pretending to have the product code scanned. Specifically, the customer-side scanner unit 206 includes an imaging unit that captures an image and reads the code, and can also detect when an item passes in front of the imaging unit and when the operator's hand moves from upstream to downstream. In this way, the aforementioned weighing judgment becomes unnecessary, and thus the weighing device 210 becomes unnecessary.

[0074] If no error is detected by the detection unit, the display control unit displays the real-time captured image (video) on the monitoring monitor 215, as shown in the normal screen 800 of Figure 8(A). On the other hand, if an error is detected by the detection unit, the display control unit displays the video (recorded) from the time the error was detected on the monitoring monitor 215.

[0075] The display control unit may display both the video when an error is detected and the normal screen on the monitoring monitor 215. The display control unit may also display the video when an error is detected and the screen being operated (normal screen) on the customer-side display unit 205. The display control unit may also display the error on both the customer-side display unit 205 and the monitoring monitor 215, or on the monitoring monitor 215 only, depending on the nature of the detected error. For example, in the cases of (11) to (13) above, the display control unit may display the error only on the monitoring monitor 215, and in cases other than (11) to (13) above, it may display the error on both the customer-side display unit 205 and the monitoring monitor 215. Furthermore, when an error is detected by the detection unit, the POS terminal device 20 may also illuminate the sign pole 216 in a lighting pattern corresponding to the nature of the error.

[0076] Furthermore, the transaction status management device 11 may display or not display errors on the display unit 705 depending on the content of the errors detected by the detection unit.

[0077] Furthermore, when the display control unit displays the error details on the monitoring monitor 215, it may also display a message on the customer-side display unit 205 indicating that an image is being displayed on the monitoring monitor 215. This enhances the deterrent effect against fraud by informing the customer that an image is being displayed on the monitoring monitor 215. Below, an example of a screen to be displayed on the monitoring monitor 215 when an emergency error is detected will be described.

[0078] Figure 8(B) shows the emergency error screen 810. As shown in Figure 8(B), the emergency error screen 810 includes a replay image 811 and an emergency error image 812. The replay image 811 shows the recording at the time the emergency error occurred. The emergency error image 812 is superimposed on the replay image 811 and indicates that an emergency error has occurred and that the replay is being played. The emergency error image 812 is displayed flashing in the same color as the sign pole 216 (for example, red). The emergency error image 812 may also be an image corresponding to the content of the emergency error. For example, if a result that does not match is obtained in the weighing judgment, the emergency error image 812 may be an image indicating that the result is such that it has been obtained, or if the waiting time has elapsed, it may be an image indicating that the waiting time has elapsed.

[0079] Furthermore, the emergency error image 812 may be displayed enlarged on the emergency error screen 810. In this case, the replay image 811 may be displayed in a reduced size. Alternatively, the replay image 811 may not be displayed on the emergency error screen 810. That is, the system may switch from the normal screen 800 to a screen displaying only the emergency error image 812. Alternatively, the emergency error image 812 may not be displayed on the emergency error screen 810. That is, the system may switch from the normal screen 800 to a screen displaying only the replay image 811.

[0080] By displaying the emergency error screen 810 shown in Figure 8(B), customers and monitoring staff can be notified that an emergency error has occurred.

[0081] When a monitoring employee approaches the POS terminal 20 where the emergency error occurred, they input employee information, such as by scanning the employee code, and switch the operating mode to a maintenance mode exclusively for employees. In maintenance mode, the POS terminal 20 may repeatedly display the emergency error screen 810 on the monitoring monitor 215 until the emergency error is cleared. The image that is repeatedly displayed may be a still image taken from a few seconds immediately before to a few seconds immediately after the emergency error occurred.

[0082] Furthermore, in the maintenance mode of the POS terminal device 20, the emergency error screen 810 may be displayed on the monitoring monitor 215 in response to an operation by a store employee. Alternatively, the emergency error screen 810 may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 instead of or in addition to the monitoring monitor 215 in response to the input of store employee information or when switching to maintenance mode.

[0083] Furthermore, if a semi-urgent error is detected by the detection unit, the display control unit displays an image indicating the semi-urgent error and real-time video on the monitoring monitor 215. The following describes an example of the screen displayed on the monitoring monitor 215 when a semi-urgent error is detected.

[0084] Figure 8(C) shows the semi-urgent error screen 820. As shown in Figure 8(C), the semi-urgent error screen 820 includes a real-time image 801 and a semi-urgent error image 822. The semi-urgent error image 822 indicates that a semi-urgent error has occurred. The semi-urgent error image 822 is displayed by flashing in the same color as the sign pole 216 (for example, yellow). The semi-urgent error image 822 may also be an image corresponding to the content of the semi-urgent error. For example, the semi-urgent error image 822 may be an image showing the near end of the change in the case of a near end of the change, and an image showing the near end of the receipt in the case of a near end of the receipt.

[0085] Alternatively, the semi-urgent error image 822 may be displayed in an enlarged view. In this case, the real-time image 801 may be displayed in a reduced view. Furthermore, the real-time image 801 may not be displayed on the semi-urgent error screen 820. In other words, the system may switch from the normal screen 800 to a screen displaying only the semi-urgent error image 822.

[0086] By displaying the semi-emergency error screen 820 shown in Figure 8(C), it is possible to notify the monitoring staff that a semi-emergency error has occurred while they continue to monitor customers.

[0087] When the monitoring staff member goes to the POS terminal 20 where the semi-emergency error occurred, they input staff information, such as by scanning the staff code. After the staff information is entered, the POS terminal 20 displays the semi-emergency error screen 820 on the monitoring monitor 215 until the semi-emergency error is resolved by replenishing the change and receipt paper.

[0088] In this embodiment, the monitoring monitor 215 is positioned above and displays information based on the image captured by the camera 214. Therefore, the POS terminal device 20 may be configured without a signpost 216. The background image of the monitoring monitor 215 may also be the same as the lighting pattern of the signpost 216 described above. This allows the monitoring monitor 215 to perform the role of the signpost 216. Furthermore, the monitoring monitor 215 may be equipped with a lighting unit similar to that of the signpost 216 at its top. In other words, the monitoring monitor 215 and the signpost 216 may be integrated into a single unit.

[0089] The transmitting unit transmits the captured images taken by the camera 214 to the transaction status management device 11. The captured images transmitted by the transmitting unit are real-time captured images. However, the transmitted images are not limited to real-time images; they may also be captured images taken when an emergency error occurs, that is, captured images for a predetermined period of time before and after the emergency error occurred.

[0090] (Regarding gift certificates and their collection) In this embodiment, the POS terminal device 20 is capable of processing payments using vouchers. Vouchers include, for example, gift certificates, beer vouchers, discount vouchers, and coupons. Registration of vouchers is performed, for example, by having the customer scan the barcode attached to the voucher with the customer-side scanner unit 206.

[0091] Gift certificates can be categorized into two types: those requiring verification and collection by a store employee at checkout, and those that do not require verification. Examples of verification-required gift certificates include merchandise vouchers, beer vouchers, and discount coupons, which have a value exceeding a specified amount and can only be used once. On the other hand, gift certificates that do not require verification are coupons and similar items that can be used freely by anyone, regardless of the number of uses. When using a verification-required gift certificate, an emergency error occurs, and a store employee is called. The timing of the employee call is, for example, when the gift certificate is registered.

[0092] The monitoring staff member goes to the POS terminal 20 and collects the gift certificate from the customer. If the monitoring staff member then returns to the transaction status management device 11 and stores the gift certificate in a designated storage unit provided in the transaction status management device 11, a verification process will be required during the closing procedures after closing time to confirm which gift certificate was used at which POS terminal 20. On the other hand, in this embodiment, each POS terminal 20 is provided with a gift certificate storage unit 242 (see Figure 3). Therefore, when the staff member collects a gift certificate that requires verification from the customer, they store it in the gift certificate storage unit 242. Gift certificates that do not require verification by the staff member are stored in the gift certificate storage unit 242 by the customer. As a result, since the gift certificates are collected for each POS terminal 20, the POS terminal 20 on which the gift certificate was used is clear, and the above verification process can be eliminated during the closing procedures.

[0093] (Regarding the configuration of the voucher storage section 242) Next, let's elaborate on the configuration of the voucher storage section 242. As shown in Figure 3, the voucher storage section 242 is located below the downstream counter 232, thus making effective use of the space below the downstream counter 232.

[0094] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3(A), the voucher storage section 242 includes a slot 242a, a keyhole 242b, a grip 242c, and an opening / closing door 242d. The slot 242a is positioned to one side when viewed from the front. As shown in Figure 3(A), in this embodiment, the slot 242a is positioned to the right. Therefore, vouchers are stored on the right side of the voucher storage section 242. The slot 242a is also located in the upper right of the voucher storage section 242, meaning it is within easy reach of customers and staff operating the POS terminal 20. Therefore, staff and customers can easily insert vouchers into the slot 242a.

[0095] A designated key is inserted into the keyhole 242b when a store employee collects the gift certificates. When the employee unlocks the door and places their hand on the handle 242c, pulling the opening door 242d towards them, the opening door 242d opens with the side where the mail slot 242a is located (the right side) as the pivot point. As a result, the degree to which the opening door 242d opens is greater on the left side and less on the right side. In addition, the gift certificates are stored towards the right side of the gift certificate storage section 242. Therefore, the design makes it less likely for the gift certificates inside to fall out when the opening door 242d is opened.

[0096] Furthermore, the voucher storage section 242 is not limited to being located below the downstream counter 232. For example, the voucher storage section 242 may be located below the upstream counter 231. This would allow for effective use of the space below the upstream counter 231. In this case, it is desirable to provide the deposit section 242a on the opposite side (upper left). This would allow the deposit section 242a to be located within reach of customers or staff operating the POS terminal 20, making it easy for staff and customers to deposit vouchers into the deposit section 242a. In this case, it is also desirable that the opening and closing door 242d be configured to open with the side where the deposit section 242a is located (left side) as the pivot point. This would ensure that the vouchers are stored towards the left side of the voucher storage section 242, making it less likely for the vouchers inside to fall out when the opening and closing door 242d is opened. The voucher storage section 242 may also be positioned in the same location as the spare parts storage section 243 (see Figure 3).

[0097] (Example of the screen of the transaction status management device 11) Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 705 of the transaction status management device 11. In Figure 9, the display unit 705 displays a divided list screen 900. The divided list screen 900 is a screen in which the display area is divided into a number of sections corresponding to the number of POS terminal devices 20. For example, if there are four POS terminal devices 20, the divided list screen 900 will be a screen with the display area divided into four sections. In the illustration, the divided list screen 900 shows the status of each of the four POS terminal devices 20. Specifically, the divided screen 901 includes the first divided screen 901a, the second divided screen 901b, the third divided screen 901c, and the fourth divided screen 901d. Each divided screen 901 (901a to 901b) corresponds to a POS terminal device 20-1 to 20-4, respectively.

[0098] Each split screen 901 includes a status area 911, a POS screen display area 912, an information display area 913, and a background area 914. The status area 911 shows the current status of the corresponding POS terminal device 20. The status area 911 of the first split screen 901a is hidden, indicating that it is not in use. The status areas 911 of the second split screen 901b and the fourth split screen 901d indicate that registration is in progress in full self-service mode. The status area 911 of the third split screen 901c indicates that another employee is selecting the operating mode.

[0099] The POS screen display area 912 displays pop-ups shown on the display screen of the corresponding POS terminal device 20, as well as the content of the selected buttons that were pressed.

[0100] The information display area 913 displays product information, settlement information, transaction results, and information related to switching operating modes from the corresponding POS terminal device 20 as text. In the illustration, the first split screen 901a shows a detailed screen. In the first split screen 901a, the information display area 913 is a display configuration that further divides the first split screen 901a. Specifically, the information display area 913 in the first split screen 901a is divided into two areas for text display, and also includes an imaging area 913a for displaying video (captured image). This video can display real-time video or recorded video. By displaying real-time video, the monitoring staff can constantly check the customer in detail.

[0101] On the other hand, each information display area 913 of the split screens 901b to 901d has a display mode that includes only an area for displaying text. The display mode of each split screen 901 can be changed as appropriate in response to various operations performed by the monitoring staff.

[0102] The information display area 913 in the second split screen 901b indicates that an emergency error has occurred. Furthermore, in the fourth split screen 901d, the information display area 913 indicates that a confirmation button is displayed indicating whether or not to call a store employee. Text related to emergency and semi-emergency errors is displayed in a different format from other text, such as by displaying it in red. In the event of an emergency error, the second split screen 901b may be further divided to display video (recording) of the emergency error or real-time video.

[0103] The background area 914 can be displayed with any of several background colors. The background color corresponds to, for example, the lighting mode of the sign pole 216. That is, the background area 914 can be displayed with a background color indicating "in use" (green), a background color indicating a semi-urgent error (yellow), or a background color indicating an emergency error (red).

[0104] Each split screen 901 also includes a details screen button 921, a log search button 922, a webcam button 923, an emergency lock button 924, and an unlock button 925. The details screen button 921 is a button that accepts a request to switch to the detailed information screen of the corresponding POS terminal device 20 (the screen shown in the first split screen 901a). The log search button is a button that accepts a request to search for log information of the corresponding POS terminal device 20. The webcam button 923 is a screen that accepts a request to display the image captured by the camera 214 of the corresponding POS terminal device 20. The emergency lock button 924 is a button that accepts a request to emergency lock the corresponding POS terminal device 20. The unlock button 925 is a button that accepts a request to unlock the emergency lock of the corresponding POS terminal device 20.

[0105] In Figure 9, for example, when the detail screen button 921 for the second split screen 901b is pressed, and a predetermined operation is received to display the second split screen 901b in full screen, the system transitions to the detail screen 1000 shown in Figure 10.

[0106] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a detail screen 1000 displayed on the transaction status management device 11. In Figure 10(A), the detail screen 1000 shows the details of a transaction performed on the POS terminal device 20-2. The detail screen 1000 allows the monitoring staff to understand the details of the transaction. The detail screen 1000 also includes a monitor selection button 1001. When the monitor selection button 1001 is pressed, the screen transitions to the monitor screen 1010 shown in Figure 10(B). Alternatively, in the divided list screen 900 of Figure 9, pressing the imaging area 913a may transition the screen from the divided list screen 900 to the monitor screen 1010 shown in Figure 10(B).

[0107] In Figure 10(B), the monitor screen 1010 includes a transaction information display area 1011, an imaging area 1012, and a controller 1013. The transaction information display area 1011 shows detailed transaction information as shown on the details screen 1000. The imaging area 1012 displays video (recording) before and after an emergency error occurs. The controller 1013 accepts various operations such as pausing and fast-forwarding the video displayed in the imaging area 1012. Depending on the operation received by the controller 1013, the imaging area 1012 can display images from a series of captured customer operations that the monitoring staff wish to confirm.

[0108] Although the monitor screen 1010 displays video of completed transactions, it can also display real-time video of transactions. For example, if a monitoring staff member notices suspicious behavior from a customer currently registering or settling a transaction, the monitoring staff member can, in response to their operation, display the suspicious behavior in the imaging area 1012. In addition, in the event of an emergency error, the system may be configured to automatically switch from the split screen 901 to the monitor screen 1010.

[0109] Furthermore, the image displayed in the imaging area 1012 can be enlarged and reduced. For example, the portion of the imaging area 1012 that was pressed by the store clerk may be enlarged. Also, if multiple emergency errors occur, the imaging results for each emergency error may be displayed separately.

[0110] Furthermore, the image displayed in the imaging area 1012 may be the same as the image displayed on the monitoring monitor 215, or it may be a different image. If a different image is used, for example, the monitoring monitor 215 may display only the text "Emergency Error Image 812," while the imaging area 1012 may display the image captured when the emergency error occurred.

[0111] (Product registration process performed by POS terminal device 20) Figures 11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the product registration process performed by the POS terminal device 20. In Figure 11, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not it has started up (step S1101). The POS terminal device 20 waits until it starts up (step S1101: NO), and once it starts up (step S1101: YES), it begins capturing images with the camera 214 and displays the normal screen 800 (see Figure 8(A)) on the monitoring monitor 215 (step S1102).

[0112] The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether or not it is time to start product registration (step S1103). Starting product registration is done by accepting a predetermined operation, such as pressing the registration start button on the waiting screen or confirming whether or not a membership card is available. The POS terminal device 20 waits until it is time to start product registration (step S1103: NO). When it is time to start product registration (step S1103: YES), the POS terminal device 20 starts recording video (captured image) captured by the camera 214 (step S1104).

[0113] Next, the POS terminal 20 displays a selection screen that allows the customer to choose whether to use their own bag or purchase a bag, and accepts the selection of a bag (step S1105). Then, the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not the bag has been set on the shopping bag hook 432 (step S1106). This determination may be made by detecting the weight of the bag, or by receiving confirmation from the customer that the bag has been set.

[0114] The POS terminal device 20 waits until the bag is set on the shopping bag hook 432 (step S1106: NO), and once the bag is set on the shopping bag hook 432 (step S1106: YES), it resets the weighing scale 210 (step S1107). Then, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the customer-side scanner unit 206 has scanned the product (step S1108).

[0115] If the customer-side scanner unit 206 does not scan the product (step S1108: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S1204 in Figure 12 to determine whether an emergency error has occurred. The waiting time before product registration can be set to any time, for example, waiting time t1 or waiting time t2, or any other time.

[0116] In step S1108, if the customer-side scanner unit 206 scans a product (step S1108: YES), the POS terminal device 20 registers the product and displays the product on the customer-side display unit 205 (step S1109). Note that the image showing the registered product is superimposed on the bagging notification image described later, so it does not appear on the front of the screen, and is therefore not recognized by the customer.

[0117] Next, the POS terminal device 20 requests product information for the registered product from the store controller 10, and the store controller 10 retrieves the product information for the product extracted from the product master 600 (see Figure 6) (step S1110). Then, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not the product is a product that requires a plastic bag based on the retrieved product information (step S1111). If the product is not a product that requires a plastic bag (step S1111: NO), the POS terminal device 20 displays a bagging notification image that includes text such as "Please put the product in a bag" (step S1112). Then, it sets the waiting time t to t1 (step S1113) and proceeds to step S1201.

[0118] On the other hand, if the registered product is a product that requires a plastic bag (step S1111: YES), the POS terminal device 20 displays a bagging notification image and a plastic bag notification image indicating that a plastic bag is present in the work support rack 241 (step S1114). Then, it sets the waiting time t to t2 (t2 > t1) (step S1115).

[0119] Next, as shown in Figure 12, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether the registered product is a reserved product (step S1201). Note that the registration of a reserved product is one form of emergency error. If the product is a reserved product (step S1201: YES), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S1205 and performs emergency error processing (see Figure 13). Note that if the reserved product is a product that requires age verification, the registration operation may be allowed to proceed as is. However, the monitoring monitor 215 may display a message indicating that a product requiring age verification has been registered. In other words, the content displayed on the monitoring monitor 215 may differ depending on the type of reserved product. On the other hand, if the product is not a reserved product (step S1201: NO), the POS terminal device 20 performs a weighing determination to determine whether the weight measured by the weighing scale 210 matches the weight obtained from the product information acquired in step S1110 (step S1202).

[0120] If the weighing judgment results in a mismatch (step S1203: NO), that is, if the weighing result is not OK, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not it has detected an emergency error, including the elapsed waiting time t (step S1204). If no emergency error is detected (step S1204: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S1208. If an emergency error is detected (step S1204: YES), the POS terminal device 20 performs emergency error processing (see Figure 13) (step S1205) and returns to step S1108.

[0121] If the weighing result matches (step S1203: YES), that is, if the weighing result is OK, the POS terminal device 20 erases the bagging notification image (step S1206). Once the bagging notification image is erased, the image showing the registered product appears on the front of the screen, that is, it becomes recognizable by the customer.

[0122] Next, the POS terminal device 20 transmits registration information to the transaction status management device 11 (step S1207). When the transaction status management device 11 receives the transmitted transaction information, it displays the registration information sequentially as text (see split screen 901d in Figure 9). The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether or not it has detected a semi-urgent error (step S1208). If a semi-urgent error is detected (step S1208: YES), the POS terminal device 20 performs semi-urgent error processing (see Figure 14) (step S1209).

[0123] If no semi-urgent error is detected (step S1208: NO), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not a settlement has started (step S1210). A settlement has started, for example, when the settlement start button (registration complete button) is pressed. If a settlement has not started (step S1210: NO), the POS terminal device 20 returns to step S1108. If a settlement has started (step S1210: YES), the POS terminal device 20 terminates the series of processes.

[0124] (Emergency error handling performed by POS terminal device 20) Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of emergency error processing performed by the POS terminal device 20. In Figure 13, the POS terminal device 20 illuminates the sign pole 216 in a lighting pattern indicating an emergency error (for example, red) (step S1301). The POS terminal device 20 then transmits emergency error information to the transaction status management device 11 indicating that an emergency error has been detected (step S1302).

[0125] Next, the POS terminal device 20 displays an emergency error screen 810 (see Figure 8(B)) on the monitoring monitor 215 (step S1303). Then, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether the emergency error has been resolved based on the store clerk's actions (step S1304). If the emergency error has been resolved (step S1304: YES), the POS terminal device 20 turns off the sign pole 216 (step S1305), displays a normal screen 800 (see Figure 8(A)) on the monitoring monitor 215 (step S1306), and proceeds to step S1108 in Figure 11.

[0126] In step S1304, if the emergency error is not resolved (step S1304:NO), the POS terminal 20 determines, based on the store clerk's operation, whether or not the transaction cancellation has been accepted (step S1307). If the transaction cancellation is not accepted (step S1307:NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S1304. As shown in steps S1304:NO and S1307:NO, when an emergency error is detected, operations such as product registration (scanning) become unavailable, and operations such as product registration (scanning) can be resumed once the emergency error is cleared or the transaction cancellation is accepted.

[0127] If the POS terminal accepts the request to cancel the transaction (step S1307: YES), the POS terminal 20 performs a transaction cancellation process to cancel the transaction (step S1308) and terminates the series of processes. The registered transaction information is reset by the transaction cancellation process.

[0128] (Semi-urgent error handling performed by POS terminal device 20) Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of semi-urgent error processing performed by the POS terminal device 20. In Figure 14, the POS terminal device 20 lights up the sign pole 216 in a lighting pattern indicating a semi-urgent error (for example, yellow) (step S1401). The POS terminal device 20 then transmits semi-urgent error information indicating the content of the semi-urgent error to the transaction status management device 11 (step S1402).

[0129] Next, the POS terminal device 20 displays a semi-urgent error screen 820 (see Figure 8(C)) on the monitoring monitor 215 (step S1403). The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether the semi-urgent error has been resolved (step S1404). If the semi-urgent error is not resolved (step S1404:NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S1108 in Figure 11. As shown in step S1404:NO, even if a semi-urgent error is detected and not cleared, it is still possible to perform operations such as registering (scanning) products.

[0130] In step S1404, if the semi-urgent error is resolved (step S1404: YES), the POS terminal device 20 turns off the sign pole 216 (step S1405), displays the normal screen 800 (see Figure 8(A)) on the monitoring monitor 215 (step S1406), and proceeds to step S1108 in Figure 11.

[0131] (Processing performed by the transaction status management device 11) Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the transaction status management device 11. In Figure 15, the transaction status management device 11 determines whether or not it has started up (step S1701). The transaction status management device 11 waits until it starts up (step S1701: NO), and once it starts up (step S1701: YES), it displays a predetermined screen (step S1702). The predetermined screen is a screen corresponding to the operation of the monitoring staff, and is, for example, the split list screen 900 (see Figure 9), the detail screen 1000 (see Figure 10(A)), or the monitor screen 1010 (see Figure 10(B)).

[0132] The transaction status management device 11 then determines whether or not it has received transaction information from the POS terminal device 20 (step S1702). Transaction information includes registration information and settlement information. If no transaction information is received (step S1702: NO), the transaction status management device 11 proceeds to step S1705. If transaction information is received (step S1702: YES), the transaction status management device 11 updates the screen of the corresponding POS terminal device 20 (step S1704).

[0133] The transaction status management device 11 then determines whether or not it has received emergency error information from the POS terminal device 20 indicating that an emergency error has been detected (step S1705). If emergency error information is received (step S1705: YES), the transaction status management device 11 notifies the POS terminal device 20 of the emergency error on the split screen 901 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 in the split list screen 900, etc. (step S1706), and proceeds to step S1709. If emergency error information is received, the monitor screen 1010 (see Figure 10(B)) that appears when an emergency error occurs may be displayed immediately. This allows store staff to quickly identify the cause of the error and take prompt action.

[0134] If no emergency error information is received in step S1705 (step S1705: NO), the transaction status management device 11 determines whether or not it has received semi-urgent error information from the POS terminal device 20 indicating that a semi-urgent error has been detected (step S1707). If semi-urgent error information is received (step S1707: YES), the transaction status management device 11 notifies the POS terminal device 20 of the semi-urgent error on the split screen 901 corresponding to the split list screen 900, etc. (step S1708).

[0135] The transaction status management device 11 then determines whether the error has been cleared in the POS terminal device 20 (step S1709). If the error has not been cleared (step S1709: NO), the transaction status management device 11 returns to step S1702. If the error has been cleared (step S1709: YES), the transaction status management device 11 cancels the error notification (step S1710) and returns to step S1702. Note that the clearing of the error is not limited to being performed in the POS terminal device 20 while the error is occurring, but may also be performed in the transaction status management device 11 in response to the store clerk's operation.

[0136] If no semi-urgent error information is received in step S1707 (step S1707: NO), the transaction status management device 11 determines whether to terminate or not (step S1711). Termination means, for example, cutting off the power. If the transaction status management device 11 does not terminate (step S1711: NO), it returns to step S1702. On the other hand, if it does terminate (step S1711: YES), the POS terminal device 20 terminates the series of processes.

[0137] As described above, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment is equipped with a camera 214 for capturing images of customer operations above the customer-side display unit 205, and a monitoring monitor 215 for displaying the captured images above the camera 214. This makes customers aware that they are being monitored from above, thus providing a deterrent effect against fraud with a simple configuration. Therefore, various costs related to customer monitoring can be reduced, improving the operational efficiency of the self-checkout system and thus improving the convenience of the self-checkout system.

[0138] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the camera 214 and the monitoring monitor 215 are located within a predetermined width W of the device housing 20a on which the customer-side display unit 205 is provided, and are positioned above the customer-side display unit 205. This makes it possible to suppress the increase in size of the POS terminal device 20 that would occur with the installation of the camera 214 and the monitoring monitor 215.

[0139] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the POS terminal device 20 is configured to display an error image (emergency error image 812 or semi-emergency error image 822) on the monitoring monitor 215 when an error is detected. This allows monitoring staff stationed at the transaction status management device 11 to recognize the error as quickly as possible and improves the deterrent effect against fraud.

[0140] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the POS terminal device 20 displays the captured image in real time if no error is detected. This makes customers using the POS terminal device 20 aware that they are being captured in real time, thereby further enhancing the deterrent effect against fraud.

[0141] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the POS terminal device 20 is configured to display the image information (recording) at the time the emergency error was detected when it is detected. This improves the deterrent effect against fraud and allows store staff to immediately confirm the cause of the error, enabling them to take prompt action.

[0142] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the transaction status management device 11 is equipped with a display unit that displays image information when an error is detected. This allows store employees to check the cause of the error on the transaction status management device 11, meaning they can check the cause of the error without having to go to the POS terminal device 20, thus enabling them to take prompt action. Consequently, various costs related to customer monitoring can be reduced, improving the operational efficiency of the self-checkout system and thus improving the convenience of the self-checkout system.

[0143] (Modified examples of the embodiment) Modifications of the embodiment are described below. In the following modifications, explanations of the contents described in the above-described embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. In the above-described embodiment, a configuration in which the monitoring monitor 215 is attached to the customer-side display unit 205 was described. In the modification, a configuration in which the monitoring monitor 215 is attached to the device housing 20a will be described.

[0144] In the modified configuration, the monitoring monitor 215 is attached to the other end of a support member (not shown) whose one end is supported by the device housing 20a. It is also possible for the POS terminal device 20 to include a display unit for the store clerk in addition to the customer-side display unit 205. In this case as well, the support member is positioned so as not to interfere with the store clerk-side display unit.

[0145] Even in this way, it is possible to make customers using the POS terminal device 20 aware that they are being photographed, thereby enhancing the deterrent effect against fraud.

[0146] The following is a summary of the embodiments. [Title of Invention] Settlement Device and Settlement System [Technical Field] The present invention relates to a settlement device and a settlement system. [Background technology] Traditionally, transactions in various stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores have been conducted using POS (Point of Sale) terminals. POS terminals handle product registration and payment processing. In addition to POS terminals where product registration and payment are performed by store employees, there are also self-checkout systems where at least one of these is performed by the customer (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art document] [Patent] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-069574 [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] However, conventional technology had problems such as poor operational efficiency and low convenience for self-checkouts, as customers had to perform tasks such as payment and bagging themselves, and required supervision by store staff. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can improve the convenience of self-checkout systems.

[0147] [Means for solving the problem] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a payment device in which a customer pays for purchased goods, and is characterized by comprising: an operation reception unit that receives operations from the customer; an imaging unit disposed above the operation reception unit that images the customer performing the operation; and a display unit disposed above the imaging unit that displays the image captured by the imaging unit. According to the above configuration, customers can be made aware that they are being monitored from above, thus achieving a deterrent effect against fraud with a simple setup. Therefore, various costs related to customer monitoring can be reduced, improving the operational efficiency of self-checkout systems and thus enhancing their convenience.

[0148] (2) In the configuration of (1) above, the operation reception unit may be provided in a device housing of a predetermined width, and the imaging unit and the display unit may each be located in an area that fits within the predetermined width and is positioned above the operation reception unit. According to the above configuration, it is possible to suppress the increase in size of the POS terminal device 20 that would occur with the installation of the camera 214 and the surveillance monitor 215.

[0149] (3) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the configuration may also include a detection unit for detecting errors, and a display control unit which, when an error is detected by the detection unit, causes the display unit to display an error image indicating the error. According to the above configuration, errors can be recognized quickly by the monitoring staff stationed at the transaction status management device 11, and the deterrent effect against fraud can be improved.

[0150] (4) In the configuration of (3) above, the display control unit may display the real-time captured image if no error is detected. According to the above configuration, customers using the POS terminal device 20 can be made aware that they are being photographed in real time, thereby further enhancing the deterrent effect against fraud.

[0151] (5) In the configuration of (4) above, the display control unit may, when the error is detected, display the imaging information at the time the error was detected. The above configuration improves the deterrent effect against fraud, and allows store employees to quickly identify the cause of errors, enabling them to take prompt action.

[0152] (6) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a settlement system comprising a settlement device in which a customer settles the payment for purchased goods, and a transaction status management device that monitors the settlement device, wherein the settlement device comprises an operation reception unit that receives operations from the customer, an imaging unit positioned above the operation reception unit and imaging the customer performing the operation, a display unit positioned above the imaging unit and displaying the image captured by the imaging unit, a transmission unit that transmits the image captured by the imaging unit to the transaction status management device, and a detection unit that detects errors, and the transaction status management device comprises a display unit that displays imaging information when the detection unit detects an error. With the above configuration, store employees can check the cause of errors in the transaction status management device 11, meaning they can check the cause of errors without going to the POS terminal device 20, thus enabling them to take prompt action. Therefore, various costs related to customer monitoring can be reduced, improving the operational efficiency of self-checkout systems and thus improving the convenience of self-checkout systems.

[0153] Furthermore, to add to (7) the work support rack 241, the work support rack 241 according to this embodiment is Base section 410 and The lower part of the base is connected to the frame 420 which extends in the height direction, A top plate (temporary storage platform 450) is connected to the upper part of the aforementioned frame and on which items can be placed, A pair of arms (side arms 430) extending laterally are connected to the middle section between the lower and upper parts, A hook for hanging bags (shopping bag hook 432) is attached to each of the aforementioned pair of arms, A roll holder 440 for holding roll-shaped bags is located below the top plate and behind the bag-hanging hook, It is equipped with. With the above configuration, customers can smoothly register and bag their products. In particular, since the polybag roll 510 is located behind the shopping bag 500 from the customer's perspective, products can be placed into the polybag without hindering the series of actions from product registration to bagging. This allows for quick registration and bagging. Therefore, transactions can be conducted quickly, improving the operational efficiency of the POS terminal device 20.

[0154] Furthermore, (8) to add to the work support system 240 equipped with the work support rack 241, the work support system 240 is: The above-mentioned work support rack 241 is placed on it, and a weighing device 210 is provided for weighing the products inside the bags hung on the bag-hanging hooks. With the above configuration, it is possible to determine whether the weight of the items inside the shopping bag 500 matches the weight indicated by the weight information of those items, while the shopping bag 500 is hanging on the bag. Therefore, payment can be made with the items still inside the shopping bag 500. Consequently, transactions can be completed quickly, improving the operational efficiency of the POS terminal device 20.

[0155] Furthermore, (9) the work support system 240 is The platform on which the above weighing instrument is placed (downstream counter 232), Located below the aforementioned platform is a voucher storage section for storing vouchers, It is equipped with. With the above configuration, the space below the downstream counter 232 can be effectively utilized. In addition, since gift certificates can be collected for each POS terminal 20, it becomes unnecessary to check which gift certificate was used at which POS terminal 20 during the closing process after the store closes. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the management of gift certificates at self-checkout counters and reduce the workload on store staff, thereby improving the operational efficiency of the POS terminal 20.

[0156] Furthermore, all or part of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of each device described above (transaction status management device 11, POS terminal device 20, etc.) may be implemented in a device other than the one described as the entity executing the function.

[0157] For example, instead of the POS terminal device 20, the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may perform the process of displaying the captured images captured by the monitoring monitor 215. Specifically, for example, instead of the POS terminal device 20, the settlement process (see Figure 12) may be performed.

[0158] Furthermore, although the above description described a POS terminal device 20 comprising a detection unit, a display control unit, and a transmission unit, all or part of these functional units may be provided in other computer devices. For example, all or part of these functional units may be provided in the store controller 10, in the cloud server, or in other computer devices. Also, the computer devices equipped with these functional units are not limited to multiple units, but may consist of just one unit. For example, all of these functional units may be provided in a single computer device.

[0159] In relation to the above, the POS terminal device 20 may function as a so-called thin client specializing in the input / output interface portion with respect to the control of the display of captured images. That is, the POS terminal device 20 may receive various inputs (operator's actions, detection by devices such as scanners, captured images), send input information (operation information, scan information, etc.) to a cloud server, receive the processing results from the cloud server based on said input information (updated screen information, device control information, etc.), and perform various outputs (display on the display unit, device control).

[0160] Furthermore, the program for implementing the POS system 1, transaction status management device 11, POS terminal device 20, etc., as described above, may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be loaded into a computer system and executed. Here, "computer system" includes hardware such as the OS and peripheral devices. "Computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. Moreover, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, which retains the program for a certain period of time. Furthermore, the above program may be transmitted from the computer system that stores the program in a storage device, etc., to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Furthermore, the above program may be for implementing only a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, the aforementioned functions may be implemented in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system, such as so-called differential files (differential programs). [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 1…POS system, 10…Store controller, 11…Transaction status management device, 20…POS terminal device, 20a…Device enclosure, 201…CPU, 202…ROM, 203…RAM, 204…Hard disk, 205…Customer-side display unit, 206…Customer-side scanner unit, 210…Weighing scale, 214…Camera, 215…Surveillance monitor, 216…Sign pole, 240…Work support system, 241…Work support rack, 242…Gift certificate storage unit, 432…Shopping bag hook, 440…Roll holder, 600…Product master

Claims

1. A payment device in which customers pay for the goods they purchase, An operation reception unit that receives operations from the aforementioned customer, An imaging unit is positioned above the operation reception unit and captures an image of the customer performing the operation, A display unit is positioned above the imaging unit and displays the captured image captured by the imaging unit, A payment processing device characterized by being equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned operation reception unit is provided in a device housing of a predetermined width. The imaging unit and the display unit are each located within the predetermined width and are positioned above the operation reception unit. The settlement device according to feature 1.

3. It is equipped with a detection unit that detects errors, When the error is detected by the detection unit, the display control unit causes the display unit to display an error image indicating the error, The settlement device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising:

4. The display control unit, if no error is detected, displays the captured image in real time. The settlement device according to feature 3.

5. The display control unit, when the error is detected, displays the imaging information at the time the error was detected. The settlement device according to feature 4.

6. In a settlement system that includes a settlement device for customers to settle payments for purchased goods and a transaction status management device that monitors the settlement device, The settlement device is, An operation reception unit that receives operations from the aforementioned customer, An imaging unit is positioned above the operation reception unit and captures an image of the customer performing the operation, A display unit is positioned above the imaging unit and displays the captured image captured by the imaging unit, A transmitting unit that transmits the captured image captured by the imaging unit to the transaction status management device, A detection unit that detects errors, Equipped with, The transaction status management device includes a display unit that displays imaging information when the error is detected by the detection unit. A settlement system characterized by the following features.

Images