Registration device and program

Abstract

Allows you to change the acceptable weight range for products. [Solution] The registration machine comprises a determination unit and a modification unit. The determination unit determines whether the measured weight of the product measured by the weighing instrument is within an acceptable range. The modification unit changes the acceptable range from the first acceptable range to a second acceptable range if the measured weight of the product is not within the acceptable range when the acceptable range is a first acceptable range. The second acceptable range is a range that includes the first acceptable range and the third acceptable range. The third acceptable range is a range that includes the measured weight.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a registration machine and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In the retail industry, self-checkout, cart POS (Point of sales), and smartphone POS, etc., where consumers themselves register products, are becoming widespread. In such a checkout format, there is a checkout that includes a scale for measuring the weight of a product for which a product registration operation has been performed, for the purpose of ensuring the security of product registration and preventing double reading of product identification information. In such a checkout, the scale and the checkout main body are physically or systemically coordinated.

[0003] Also, the checkout has an allowable range as a weight master for each product. The checkout compares the weight of the product placed on the scale with the allowable range, and checks the consistency between the product for which the product registration operation has been performed and the product placed on the scale.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Among products, there are products whose product identification information is the same but whose weight changes at a certain point. For example, there is a beverage that is usually 500 mL but increases to 600 mL for a limited period. If the allowable range of this beverage is 450 g or more and 550 g or less, the normal size of 500 mL will be registered without a weight error. On the other hand, the limited-period size of 600 mL will result in a weight error, even though it has the same product identification information as the normal size of 500 mL.

[0006] It is possible to temporarily change the acceptable weight range from 450g to 550g to 540g to 660g, but both regular and limited-time sizes may be sold together. In such cases, the limited-time size will be registered without a weight error, but the regular size will. Furthermore, if the acceptable weight range is changed for a limited time, once the limited-time size sells out, it will be necessary to change the acceptable weight range back from 540g to 660g to 450g to 550g.

[0007] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a technology that makes it possible to change the allowable range of product weight. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one embodiment, the registration machine comprises a determination unit and a modification unit. The determination unit determines whether the measured weight of the product measured by the weighing instrument is within an acceptable range. The modification unit changes the acceptable range from the first acceptable range to a second acceptable range if the measured weight of the product is not within the acceptable range when the acceptable range is a first acceptable range. The second acceptable range is a range that includes the first acceptable range and the third acceptable range. The third acceptable range is a range that includes the measured weight. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an external perspective view illustrating a self-checkout system according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating a registration machine for a self-checkout system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of product information according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of weight information according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of registration information according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating a self-checkout machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of a change in the tolerance range according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of product registration processing when the tolerance range of the processing circuit of the registration machine according to the embodiment is the first tolerance range. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in which the processing circuit of the registration machine according to the embodiment changes the allowable range from the first allowable range to the second allowable range. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating a product registration screen displayed on the display device of a registration machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating a product information notification displayed on the display device of a registration machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 illustrates a first weight error notification displayed on the display device of a registered machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 illustrates a notification of a change in limited weight displayed on the display device of a registered machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating a product registration screen displayed on the display device of a registration machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of product registration processing when the tolerance range of the processing circuit of the registration machine according to the embodiment is the second tolerance range. [Figure 17] Figure 17 illustrates a second weight error notification displayed on the display device of the registration machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in which the processing circuit of the registration machine according to the embodiment changes the allowable range from the second allowable range to the first allowable range. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scales of each part in the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments may be changed as appropriate. Also, each of the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments may show the configuration with some omissions for the purpose of explanation.

[0011] <Embodiment> (Configuration Example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system S. The information processing system S is a system that communicates between a plurality of devices and processes information regarding transactions in a store. For example, the store is a mass retailer such as a supermarket, but is not limited thereto. A transaction is the transfer of payment from a customer to the store accompanying the sale of merchandise by the store. A transaction includes the meaning of selling merchandise from the perspective of the store. A transaction includes the meaning of purchasing merchandise from the perspective of the customer. The merchandise may be a tangible product or a service. Hereinafter, a product will be described as an example of merchandise. The notation "transaction" shall refer to the same single transaction unless otherwise specified.

[0012] The information processing system S includes a plurality of self-checkout counters 1, attendant terminals 2, and a server 3. Each device included in the information processing system S is installed in the store, but the server 3 may be installed outside the store.

[0013] Each device included in the information processing system S is communicably connected to each other via a network NW. The network NW is a LAN (Local Area Network) or the like. The LAN may be a wireless LAN or a wired LAN.

[0014] The information processing system S may include one self-checkout counter 1 instead of a plurality of them. The information processing system S may include a plurality of attendant terminals 2 instead of one.

[0015] Self-checkout 1 is a device that processes transactions in a store. Self-checkout 1 is a POS terminal that has product registration and accounting functions as transaction processing functions, and allows customers to perform product registration and accounting operations. Self-checkout 1 includes a registration machine 10 that has a product registration function and an accounting machine 20 that has an accounting function. Self-checkout 1 is an example of a registration machine that processes product registration, an accounting machine that processes accounting, or a transaction processing machine that processes transactions.

[0016] Product registration is the registration of goods that are the subject of a transaction before accounting for the transaction. Registered goods are also called registered goods. Accounting is the payment for a transaction after product registration. Accounting includes the meaning of settlement. Accounting methods for accounting in a transaction include offline settlement and online settlement.

[0017] Offline payment is an accounting method where the self-checkout machine does not require connection to other devices via a network such as the internet. For example, offline payment includes accounting using cash and gift certificates. Gift certificates are vouchers that circulate in a form similar to cash currency. For example, gift certificates include, but are not limited to, various types of gift certificates such as shopping vouchers, gift cards, rice vouchers, beer vouchers, shareholder benefit vouchers, regional development vouchers, and coupons. Gift certificates can be physical or digital.

[0018] Online payment is an accounting process performed by a self-checkout machine in conjunction with other devices via a network such as the internet. Examples of online payments include credit card payments, electronic money payments, debit card payments, and QR code payments.

[0019] Attendant Terminal 2 is a device used by the store's attendants. Attendant Terminal 2 may be a dedicated device, or it may be a smartphone, tablet, or PC (Personal Computer). An attendant is an example of a store employee.

[0020] Server 3 is a device that processes information about transactions in a store. Server 3 is an example of an information processing device that processes information.

[0021] Figure 2 is an external perspective view illustrating Self-Checkout 1. Self-checkout 1 includes a registration machine 10 and a payment machine 20.

[0022] The registration device 10 includes a housing 11, a basket stand 12, a weighing unit 13, a support column 14, a first reading device 15, a second reading device 16, and a touch panel 17. The enclosure 11 is a unit capable of housing the elements that make up the registration device 10. The basket stand 12 is a stand for placing baskets containing purchased items. The basket stand 12 is located on the opposite side of the cashier machine 20 from the casing 11.

[0023] The weighing unit 13 is a unit that measures the weight of the product placed on it. Typically, the product placed on the weighing unit 13 is a product that has been registered. The weighing unit 13 is located on the top of the housing 11. The weighing unit 13 is an example of a weighing device that measures the weight of a product.

[0024] Products for which product registration has been performed include products for which product identification information has been entered into the self-checkout register 1 based on the reading of a code symbol using the first reading device 15 or the second reading device 16. Product identification information is identification information that can uniquely identify a product. For example, product identification information is a JAN (Japan Article Number) code. A code symbol is a code symbol that records product identification information. A code symbol that records product identification information is an image attached to the product.

[0025] Products that have undergone product registration include preset products whose product identification information has been entered into the self-checkout register 1 based on the customer's selection of a preset product using the touch panel 17. A preset product is a product that can be selected by the customer using the touch panel 17. For example, a preset product is a product that does not have a code symbol that records product identification information. Preset products include, but are not limited to, products such as vegetables, fruits, seafood, and prepared foods.

[0026] The weighing unit 13 includes a top surface 131, a support column 132, a temporary resting platform 133, and a branch section 134. The top surface 131 is the surface on which products that have been registered are placed. Products placed on the top surface 131 are examples of products placed on the weighing unit 13. The support column 132 is a support that supports the temporary base 133 and the branch section 134. The support column 132 is attached to the upper surface 131. The temporary storage platform 133 is a platform for temporarily placing products that have been registered. For example, the temporary storage platform 133 can be used to place easily crumbled products such as tofu or easily broken products such as eggs. Products placed on the temporary storage platform 133 are examples of products that can be placed on the weighing unit 13. The branch section 134 is a device for attaching a shopping bag to which the registered product will be placed. For example, the shopping bag could be a plastic shopping bag or a reusable bag brought by the customer. The product placed in the shopping bag attached to the branch section 134 is an example of a product placed on the weighing unit 13.

[0027] The support column 14 is a support that supports the first reading device 15, the second reading device 16, and the touch panel 17. The support column 14 is attached to the housing 11.

[0028] The first reading device 15 and the second reading device 16 are devices for reading various code symbols. The first reading device 15 and the second reading device 16 may be scanners that read by sensing, or cameras that read by taking pictures. The first reading device 15 and the second reading device 16 are examples of reading units that read code symbols. The first reading device 15 is mounted on the support column 14 so that the reading range of the first reading device 15 is oriented horizontally. The second reading device 16 is mounted above the support column 14 above the first reading device 15 so that the reading range of the second reading device 16 is oriented diagonally downwards.

[0029] The touch panel 17 is a device that allows instructions or information to be input to the self-checkout register 1 based on the user's actions. The touch panel 17 is a device that can display various images.

[0030] The accounting machine 20 includes a coin slot 21, a coin outlet 22, a banknote slot 23, a banknote outlet 24, a printing device 25, and a card reader 26. The coin slot 21 is an opening for inserting coins. The coin dispensing slot 22 is an opening for dispensing coins. The banknote slot 23 is an opening for inserting banknotes. The banknote dispensing slot 24 is an opening for dispensing banknotes. The printing device 25 is a device for issuing printed materials by printing on a medium. For example, the medium is paper. For example, the printed material is a receipt showing the details of a transaction. The printing device 25 is a thermal printer or an inkjet printer, etc., but is not limited to these. The card reader 26 is a device that reads information from card media such as credit cards.

[0031] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the registration machine 10 of the self-checkout system 1. In addition to the aforementioned weighing unit 13, first reading device 15, second reading device 16, and touch panel 17, the registration device 10 includes a processing circuit 101, main memory 102, storage 103, connection interface 104, and communication interface 105. Each element included in the registration device 10 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output.

[0032] The touch panel 17 includes an input device 171 and a display device 172. The input device 171 is a device that can input instructions or information to the self-checkout register 1 based on an operation. The input device 171 is an example of an input unit that can input instructions or information to the self-checkout register 1 based on an operation. The display device 172 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 101. For example, the display device 172 is a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The display device 172 is an example of a display unit capable of displaying images.

[0033] The processing circuit 101 corresponds to the central part of the registration machine 10. The processing circuit 101 is an element that constitutes the computer of the registration machine 10. The processing circuit 101 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes by performing multiple functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. The processing circuit 101 loads programs stored in the main memory 102 or storage 103 into the main memory 102. By executing the programs loaded into the main memory 102, the processing circuit 101 makes various processes executable.

[0034] The main memory 102 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the registration machine 10. The main memory 102 is an element that constitutes the computer of the registration machine 10. The main memory 102 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 102, the operating system or programs are stored. The volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 102 is used as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 101. For example, the main memory 102 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 102 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0035] Storage 103 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the registration device 10. Storage 103 includes one or more storage devices. For example, the storage device may be an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor storage medium such as an SSD (Solid State Drive), and is not limited to these. Storage 103 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processing circuit 101 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 101.

[0036] Storage 103 may include a product information storage area 1031. The product information storage area 1031 stores product information for each product sold in the store. The product information storage area 1031 is an example of a storage unit that stores product information as a product master. The product information includes all or part of the product identification information, product name, and price. The product identification information is as described above. The product name is the name of the product. The price is the unit price per product.

[0037] The storage device 103 may include a weight information storage area 1032. The weight information storage area 1032 stores the weight information of each product sold in the store. The weight information storage area 1032 is an example of a storage unit that stores weight information as a weight master.

[0038] Weight information includes product identification information and a first standard weight. Product identification information is as described above. The first standard weight is the standard weight per item set by the store.

[0039] If the tolerance range described later is the first tolerance range, the weight information does not include the second standard weight. However, if the tolerance range is the second tolerance range, the weight information includes the second standard weight. The second standard weight is the weight not included in the first tolerance range described later. The second standard weight is the weight of the product measured by the weighing unit 13. Hereafter, the weight of the product measured by the weighing unit 13 is also referred to as the measured weight of the product. The measured weight of the product is the weight per product. Typically, the product whose weight is measured by the weighing unit 13 is the product for which the product registration operation has been performed.

[0040] The tolerance range is a range of weights within which the measured weight of a product is acceptable as the weight of the product for which the product registration operation was performed. The processing circuit 101 uses the tolerance range to check the consistency between the product for which the product registration operation was performed and the product placed on the weighing unit 13. If the measured weight of the product is within the tolerance range, the processing circuit 101 registers the product for which the product registration operation was performed. On the other hand, if the measured weight of the product is not within the tolerance range, the processing circuit 101 does not register the product for which the product registration operation was performed.

[0041] The tolerance range is either the first tolerance range or the second tolerance range. The first tolerance range is a range that includes the first standard weight and has a weight range. The first tolerance range may be a continuous range consisting of a single width. For example, the first tolerance range is a range centered on the first standard weight. The first tolerance range may also be a range where the lower limit is the weight obtained by subtracting ○% of the first standard weight from the first standard weight, and the upper limit is the weight obtained by adding ○% of the first standard weight to the first standard weight. The first tolerance range may also be a range where the lower limit is the weight obtained by subtracting △g from the first standard weight, and the upper limit is the weight obtained by adding △g of the first standard weight to the first standard weight.

[0042] The second tolerance range is a range having a wider weight range than the first tolerance range. The second tolerance range includes the first tolerance range and the third tolerance range. The second tolerance range may be a continuous range consisting of one width. The second tolerance range may be a discontinuous range consisting of two or more widths.

[0043] The third tolerance range includes the second standard weight and has a range of weights. The third tolerance range may be a range consisting of a single continuous range. The third tolerance range is different from the first tolerance range. The third tolerance range may partially overlap with the first tolerance range, or it may not overlap with the first tolerance range at all. For example, the third tolerance range is a range centered on the second standard weight. The third tolerance range may also be a range where the lower limit is the weight obtained by subtracting ○% of the second standard weight from the second standard weight, and the upper limit is the weight obtained by adding ○% of the second standard weight to the second standard weight. The third tolerance range may also be a range where the lower limit is the weight obtained by subtracting △g from the second standard weight, and the upper limit is the weight obtained by adding △g of the second standard weight to the second standard weight.

[0044] The case where the second standard weight is heavier than the first standard weight and the third tolerance range partially overlaps with the first tolerance range will be described. In this case, the second tolerance range may be a continuous range consisting of one width with the minimum value of the first tolerance range as the lower limit and the maximum value of the third tolerance range as the upper limit. The case where the second standard weight is heavier than the first standard weight and the third tolerance range does not overlap with the first tolerance range at all will be described. In this case, the second tolerance range may also be a continuous range consisting of one width with the minimum value of the first tolerance range as the lower limit and the maximum value of the third tolerance range as the upper limit. The second tolerance range may also be a discontinuous range consisting of the width from the minimum to the maximum value of the first tolerance range and the width from the minimum to the maximum value of the third tolerance range.

[0045] For example, suppose a product has a first standard weight of 500g and a second standard weight of 600g. The first tolerance range is a continuous range consisting of a width of 450g to 550g, centered around the first standard weight of 500g. The third tolerance range is a continuous range consisting of a width of 540g to 660g, centered around the second standard weight of 600g. In this case, the second tolerance range may be a continuous range consisting of a width of 450g to 660g.

[0046] The case where the second standard weight is lighter than the first standard weight and the third tolerance range partially overlaps with the first tolerance range will be described. In this case, the second tolerance range may be a continuous range consisting of one width with the minimum value of the third tolerance range as the lower limit and the maximum value of the first tolerance range as the upper limit. The case where the second standard weight is lighter than the first standard weight and the third tolerance range does not overlap with the first tolerance range at all will be described. In this case, the second tolerance range may also be a continuous range consisting of one width with the minimum value of the third tolerance range as the lower limit and the maximum value of the first tolerance range as the upper limit. The second tolerance range may also be a discontinuous range consisting of the width from the minimum to the maximum value of the third tolerance range and the width from the minimum to the maximum value of the first tolerance range.

[0047] For example, suppose a product has a first standard weight of 500g and a second standard weight of 400g. The first tolerance range shall be a continuous range consisting of a width of 450g to 550g, centered around the first standard weight of 500g. The third tolerance range shall be a continuous range consisting of a width of 360g to 440g, centered around the second standard weight of 400g. In this case, the second tolerance range may also be a continuous range consisting of a width of 360g to 550g. The second tolerance range may also be a discontinuous range consisting of a width of 360g to 440g and a width of 450g to 550g.

[0048] The above-mentioned values ​​of ○% or △g are product-specific values. The set value is the value set for the individual item, class, or department to which the product belongs. An individual item is a single product identified by one product identification piece. For example, an individual item might be a cucumber. A class is a classification that includes multiple individual items. For example, a class might be whole vegetables. A department is a classification that includes multiple classes. For example, a department might be fruits and vegetables. The priority order is individual item, class, then department. If a value is set for an individual item to which a product belongs, the set value is the value set for that individual item. If no values ​​are set for an individual item or class to which a product belongs, but a value is set for a department, the set value is the value set for the department.

[0049] Weight information may include automatic change information. Automatic change designation information is information for identifying products that have been designated to automatically change their tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range if the measured weight of the product is outside the tolerance range when the tolerance range is the first tolerance range. Hereafter, products designated to automatically change their tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range will also be referred to as automatic change products. For example, automatic change information is information that indicates whether or not a product is an automatic change product.

[0050] For example, effective product groups for automatic changeover include fruits and vegetables whose importance or size changes due to seasonal factors. Specifically, summer vegetables become larger and heavier during the summer months. Although summer vegetables are also sold during the winter months, they become smaller and lighter during that time.

[0051] The storage 103 may include a registration information storage area 1033. The registration information storage area 1033 stores registration information for each registered product. The registration information storage area 1033 is an example of a storage unit that stores registration information. Note that the registration information storage area 1033 may be included in the main memory 102 instead of the storage 103. The registration information is information composed based on product information. The registration information includes all or part of the product identification information, product name, price, quantity, and product value. The product identification information, product name, and price are as described above. The quantity is the number of products identified by the same product identification information. The product value is the amount calculated based on the product of the price and the quantity. The registration information may include information other than this.

[0052] The following describes the case where the registered product is a product that has a code symbol that records product identification information. In this case, the product identification information included in the registration information is the product identification information entered into the self-checkout register 1 based on the reading of the code symbol using the first reading device 15 or the second reading device 16. The following describes the case where the registered product is a preset product. In this case, the product identification information included in the registration information is the product identification information of the preset product entered into the self-checkout register 1 based on the customer's selection of the preset product using the input device 171.

[0053] The connection interface 104 is an interface for connecting the registration device 10 to the accounting device 20 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0054] The communication interface 105 includes various interfaces for transmitting or receiving signals. The communication interface 105 connects the registered device 10 to other devices via a network NW, enabling communication between them.

[0055] The hardware configuration of the registration device 10 is not limited to the configuration described above. The registration device 10 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-described components and add new components.

[0056] The various parts implemented by the processing circuit 101 will now be described. The processing circuit 101 implements the reception unit 1011, the determination unit 1012, the modification unit 1013, the registration processing unit 1014, and the display processing unit 1015. Each part implemented by the processing circuit 101 can also be described as a function.

[0057] The reception unit 1011 receives instructions or information entered into the registration device 10. The determination unit 1012 determines whether the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range. Modification section 1013 changes the tolerance range. The registration processing unit 1014 processes product registration in a transaction. For example, processing product registration involves processing the registration information in the registration information storage area 1033. Processing the registration information includes adding registration information, increasing the quantity included in the registration information, decreasing the quantity included in the registration information, and deleting registration information. The display processing unit 1015 displays the image on the display device 172.

[0058] Figure 4 shows an example of how product information can be structured. As described above, product information may include all or part of the product identification information, product name, and price.

[0059] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of weight information. Weight information includes product identification information and the first base weight, as described above. If the tolerance range is the first tolerance range, the weight information does not include the second base weight, but if the tolerance range is the second tolerance range, the weight information includes the second base weight. Weight information may also include automatic change information. "Yes" for automatic change information indicates that it is an automatic change product. "No" for automatic change information indicates that it is not an automatic change product.

[0060] The weight information of the product identified by the product identification information "aaa" does not include the second standard information. Therefore, the acceptable range is the first acceptable range. In this example, the first acceptable range is the range of 450g to 550g, centered around the first standard weight of 500g.

[0061] The weight information of the product identified by the product identification information "bbb" includes the second standard information. Therefore, the acceptable range is the second acceptable range. In this example, the first acceptable range is the range of 450g to 550g, centered around the first standard weight of 500g. The third acceptable range is the range of 540g to 660g, centered around the second standard weight of 600g. The second acceptable range is the range of 450g to 660g, including the range of 450g to 550g and the range of 540g to 660g.

[0062] The weight information of the product identified by the product identification information "ccc" includes the second standard information. Therefore, the acceptable range is the second acceptable range. In this example, the first acceptable range is the range of 450g to 550g, centered around the first standard weight of 500g. The third acceptable range is the range of 360g to 440g, centered around the second standard weight of 400g. The second acceptable range is the range of 360g to 550g, including the range of 360g to 440g and the range of 450g to 550g.

[0063] Figure 6 shows an example of the structure of the registration information. As described above, the registration information includes all or part of the product identification information, product name, price, quantity, and product value.

[0064] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating the accounting machine 20 of self-checkout 1. In addition to the printing device 25 and card reader 26 described above, the accounting machine 20 includes a processing circuit 201, main memory 202, storage 203, connection interface 204, communication interface 205, coin change dispenser 206, and banknote change dispenser 207. Each element included in the accounting machine 20 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output.

[0065] The processing circuit 201 corresponds to the central part of the accounting machine 20. The processing circuit 201 is an element that constitutes the computer of the accounting machine 20. The processing circuit 201 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes with multiple functions. The processing circuit 201 loads programs stored in the main memory 202 or storage 203 into the main memory 202. By executing the programs loaded into the main memory 202, the processing circuit 201 makes various processes executable.

[0066] Main memory 202 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the accounting machine 20. Main memory 202 is an element that constitutes the computer of the accounting machine 20. Main memory 202 may be configured in the same way as main memory 102.

[0067] Main memory 202 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the accounting machine 20. Main memory 202 is an element that constitutes the computer of the accounting machine 20. Main memory 202 may be configured in the same way as main memory 102. Storage 203 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processing circuit 101 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 201.

[0068] The connection interface 204 is an interface for connecting the accounting machine 20 to the registration machine 10 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0069] The communication interface 205 includes various interfaces for transmitting or receiving signals. The communication interface 205 connects the accounting machine 20 to other devices via a network NW, enabling communication between them.

[0070] The coin change dispenser 206 is a device capable of handling coins used in accounting transactions. The banknote change dispenser 207 is a device capable of processing banknotes used in accounting transactions.

[0071] The hardware configuration of the accounting machine 20 is not limited to the configuration described above. The accounting machine 20 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-mentioned components and add new components.

[0072] (Example of changes to the acceptable range) This section describes an example of changing the tolerance range for product Z. Product Z is a specific type of product identified by the product identification information "zzz". Product Z is a specific beverage that is normally 500mL in size, but is increased to 600mL for a limited time. Product Z is distributed in the market under the same product identification information "zzz" whether it is the normal 500mL size or the limited-time 600mL size. The first standard weight of Product Z is 500g. The second standard weight of Product Z is 600g, which is the measured weight of Product Z. The first acceptable range is the range of 450g to 550g, centered around the first standard weight of 500g. The third acceptable range is the range of 540g to 660g, centered around the second standard weight of 600g. The second acceptable range is the range of 450g to 660g, including the range of 450g to 550g and the range of 540g to 660g.

[0073] Figure 8 shows an example of a change in the tolerance range. The horizontal axis shows the passage of time. The bar graph shows the weekly sales figures for product Z. The shaded area represents the sales figures for 500mL product Z. The area without the shaded area represents the sales figures for 600mL product Z.

[0074] When product Z's tolerance range is within the first tolerance range, the number of product Zs whose measured weight is within the tolerance range corresponds to the number of 500mL product Zs sold. When product Z's tolerance range is within the second tolerance range, the number of product Zs whose measured weight is within the first tolerance range corresponds to the number of 500mL product Zs sold. When product Z's tolerance range is within the second tolerance range, the number of product Zs whose measured weight is within the third tolerance range corresponds to the number of 600mL product Zs sold.

[0075] Server 3 collects measurement results showing the measured weight of product Z traded from each of the multiple self-checkout registers 1. Server 3 stores the collected measurement results. Server 3 determines the number of product Z traded based on the collected measurement results. Server 3 can determine the number of product Z whose measured weight is within the acceptable range of product Z when the acceptable range of product Z is within the first acceptable range. Server 3 can determine the number of product Z whose measured weight is within the first acceptable range of product Z when the acceptable range of product Z is within the second acceptable range. Server 3 can determine the number of product Z whose measured weight is within the third acceptable range of product Z when the acceptable range of product Z is within the second acceptable range.

[0076] The period enclosed by the solid line is the period during which only 500mL of product Z was sold. During this period, the weight information for product Z does not include the second reference weight. The acceptable range for product Z is the first acceptable range. The processing circuit 101 of the registration machine 10 obtains approximately 500g as the measured weight of product Z. Therefore, the measured weight of product Z is within the acceptable range for product Z.

[0077] When the distribution of product Z in 600 mL begins, the processing circuit 101 of the registration machine 10 may acquire 600 g as the measured weight of product Z. In this case, since the measured weight of product Z is not within the acceptable range for product Z, the processing circuit 101 sets the measured weight of product Z, 600 g, as the second standard weight. The processing circuit 101 changes the acceptable range for product Z from the first acceptable range to the second acceptable range.

[0078] The period enclosed by the dashed line is the period during which both 500mL and 600mL versions of product Z were sold together. During this period, the weight information for product Z includes the second standard weight. The acceptable range for product Z is the second acceptable range. The processing circuit 101 of the registration machine 10 obtains approximately 500g or approximately 600g as the measured weight of product Z. Whether the measured weight of product Z is approximately 500g or approximately 600g, it is within the acceptable range for product Z.

[0079] During the period enclosed by the dashed line, sales of 600mL product Z gradually increase, while sales of 500mL product Z gradually decrease. Subsequently, as the sales period for 600mL product Z nears its end, sales of 600mL product Z gradually decrease, and sales of 500mL product Z gradually increase. Then, while product Z is within the second acceptable range, a timing occurs where the measured weight of product Z is within the acceptable range but not within the third acceptable range. Hereafter, this timing will also be referred to as the predetermined timing. The occurrence of the predetermined timing may be determined on a weekly or daily basis. If the measured weight of product Z remains within the acceptable range but not within the third acceptable range for a predetermined period from the predetermined timing, the processing circuit 101 of the registration machine 10 changes the acceptable range of product Z from the second acceptable range to the first acceptable range. The length of the predetermined period is one week, for example, but can be set as appropriate.

[0080] The period enclosed by the dashed line is the period during which only 500mL of product Z was sold. During this period, the weight information for product Z does not include the second reference weight. The acceptable range for product Z is the first acceptable range. The processing circuit 101 of the registration machine 10 obtains approximately 500g as the measured weight of product Z. The measured weight of product Z is within the acceptable range for product Z.

[0081] (Example of product registration process when the acceptable range is the first acceptable range) Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of product registration processing when the tolerance range set by the processing circuit 101 of the registration machine 10 is within the first tolerance range. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0082] This section explains the process of registering a product ZA as an example. Product ZA is any single product of a specific type of product Z, identified by the product identification information "zzz". The first standard weight of product Z is X. The first tolerance range is the range of Xl to Xu, centered on the first standard weight X. The tolerance range of product Z is the first tolerance range.

[0083] The processing circuit 101 receives product identification information (ACT1). ACT1 may also be processed by the reception unit 1011. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 101 receives product identification information for a product that has been registered, based on a product registration operation performed by the customer. The product registration operation may also be an operation to read a code symbol using the first reading device 15 or the second reading device 16. The product registration operation may also be an operation to select a preset product using the touch panel 17. Here, the processing circuit 101 receives the product identification information "zzz" for product ZA for which the product registration operation has been performed.

[0084] The processing circuit 101 retrieves product information for the product for which a product registration operation has been performed from the product information storage area 1031 based on the received product identification information. Based on the retrieved product information, the processing circuit 101 displays a product information notification on the display device 172. This process may also be performed by the display processing unit 1015. The product information notification is a display that provides information about the product for which a product registration operation has been performed.

[0085] The processing circuit 101 obtains the weight information of the product for which the product registration operation has been performed (ACT2). ACT2 may also be processed by the determination unit 1012. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 101 obtains the weight information of the product for which the product registration operation has been performed from the weight information storage area 1032 based on the received product identification information. Here, the processing circuit 101 obtains the weight information of product Z from the weight information storage area 1032 as the weight information of product ZA for which the product registration operation has been performed.

[0086] The processing circuit 101 acquires the measured weight of the product (ACT3). ACT3 may also be processed by the determination unit 1012. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 101 acquires the measured weight of the product placed on the weighing unit 13 from the weighing unit 13. Here, the processing circuit 101 acquires the measured weight of product ZA placed on the weighing unit 13.

[0087] The processing circuit 101 determines whether the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range (ACT4). ACT4 may also be processed by the determination unit 1012. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 101 determines whether the measured weight of the product placed on the weighing unit 13 is within the acceptable range of the product for which the product registration operation was performed. Here, the processing circuit 101 determines whether the measured weight of product ZA is within the acceptable range of product Z. If the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range (ACT4, YES), the process transitions from ACT4 to ACT10. If the measured weight of the product is not within the acceptable range (ACT4, NO), the process transitions from ACT4 to ACT5.

[0088] If the measured weight of the product is not within the acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 displays a notification of the first weight error on the display device 172 (ACT5). ACT5 may also be processed by the display processing unit 1015. The first weight error is an error related to the inability to register a product that has been registered because its measured weight is not within the acceptable range. The first weight error is an example of a weight error related to the inability to register a product that has been registered due to a comparison of the measured weight of the product with the acceptable range. The notification of the first weight error can be dismissed by an attendant, but not by a customer.

[0089] The processing circuit 101 displays a notification of a limited weight change on the display device 172 based on the reading of a code symbol containing the attendant's identification information using the first reading device 15 or the second reading device 16 (ACT6). ACT6 may also be processed by the display processing unit 1015. A limited weight change is a temporary change in the weight of a product. The notification of a limited weight change is a display to confirm whether the weight error is due to a limited weight change. The notification of a limited weight change is a display that allows input of an instruction to permit the release of the limited weight change or an instruction to deny the release of the limited weight change. Releasing the limited weight change means removing the weight error for the product with the limited weight change by changing the allowable range.

[0090] The processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to permit the release of the limited weight change or an instruction to deny the release of the limited weight change (ACT7). ACT7 may also be processed by the reception unit 1011. In ACT7, for example, the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to permit the release of the limited weight change or an instruction to deny the release of the limited weight change based on the operation of the input device 171 by the attendant. An operation to input an instruction to permit the release of the limited weight change is an example of an operation to change the allowable range. An operation to change the allowable range is an example of an operation performed by the attendant.

[0091] If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to permit the release of the limited weight change (ACT7, YES), the process transitions from ACT7 to ACT8. If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to deny the release of the limited weight change (ACT7, NO), the process transitions from ACT7 to ACT9. In this case, the processing circuit 101 displays a notification on the display device 172 indicating that an instruction to permit or deny the release of the weight error can be input. Weight error release means releasing the weight error without changing the allowable range.

[0092] The processing circuit 101 changes the allowable range from the first allowable range to the second allowable range (ACT8) based on an operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of the limited weight change. ACT8 may also be processed by the modification unit 1013. In ACT8, for example, the processing circuit 101 sets the measured weight of the product as the second reference weight in the weight information. The processing circuit 101 determines the second allowable range based on the first and second reference weights and changes the allowable range from the first allowable range to the second allowable range. The processing circuit 101 sets the changed allowable range in the weight information. Here, the processing circuit 101 sets the measured weight of product ZA as the second reference weight of product Z in the weight information of product Z. The second reference weight of product Z is Y, which corresponds to the measured weight of product ZA. The third allowable range is the range of Yl or more and Yu or less, centered on Y of the second reference weight. The second tolerance range includes the first tolerance range, which is the range from Xl to Xu, and the third tolerance range, which is the range from Yl to Yu. As a result, the processing circuit 101 can appropriately change the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range after confirmation by the attendant.

[0093] The processing circuit 101 receives either an instruction to allow or deny the weight error release (ACT9). ACT9 may also be processed by the reception unit 1011. If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to allow the weight error release (ACT9, YES), the process transitions from ACT9 to ACT10. If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to deny the weight error release (ACT9, NO), the process transitions from ACT9 to ACT3.

[0094] The processing circuit 101 registers the product for which the product registration operation has been performed (ACT10). ACT10 may also be processed by the registration processing unit 1014. If the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 can register the product for which the product registration operation has been performed. The processing circuit 101 can register the product for which the product registration operation has been performed based on an operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of the limited weight change. The processing circuit 101 can register the product for which the product registration operation has been performed based on an operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of a weight error. In ACT10, for example, the processing circuit 101 registers the product for which the product registration operation has been performed by adding the registration information of the product for which the product registration operation has been performed. Here, the processing circuit 101 registers product ZA.

[0095] In addition, ACT7 describes an example in which an instruction to authorize the release of the weight limit is entered into the registration machine 10 based on the operation of the input device 171 by an attendant, but is not limited to this. The instruction to authorize the release of the weight limit may also be entered into the registration machine 10 based on the reading of a code symbol that records identification information for the release of the weight limit using the first reading device 15 or the second reading device 16.

[0096] In ACT7, an example was described in which an attendant inputs a command to authorize the release of the weight limit change to the registration device 10 based on the operation of the input device 171 of the registration device 10, but the example is not limited to this. The command to authorize the release of the weight limit change may also be input to the registration device 10 based on the operation of the attendant terminal 2 by the attendant. In this example, the attendant terminal 2 displays a notification of the weight limit change through communication with the registration device 10. The attendant terminal 2 transmits a command to authorize the release of the weight limit change to the registration device 10 based on the operation performed by the attendant to input the command to authorize the release of the weight limit change.

[0097] The processing circuit 101 may change the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range based on the image captured by the surveillance camera. In this example, the registration machine 10 includes a surveillance camera. The surveillance camera photographs the product placed on the weighing unit 13. The processing circuit 101 determines whether the product placed on the weighing unit 13 is a product subject to limited weight change. If the processing circuit 101 determines that the product placed on the weighing unit 13 is a product subject to limited weight change, it changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range without requiring any operation by an attendant. Operation by an attendant refers to the operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of the limited weight change. If the processing circuit 101 determines that the product placed on the weighing unit 13 is not a product subject to limited weight change, it displays a notification of the first weight error on the display device 172.

[0098] The processing circuit 101 may change the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range based on the automatic change information. In this example, if the measured weight of the product is not within the tolerance range, the processing circuit 101 refers to the automatic change information included in the weight information of the product for which the product registration operation was performed. Based on the automatic change information, the processing circuit 101 determines whether the product for which the product registration operation was performed is an automatically changed product. If the product for which the product registration operation was performed is an automatically changed product, the processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range without requiring any operation by the attendant. Operation by the attendant refers to the operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of the limited weight change. If the product for which the product registration operation was performed is not an automatically changed product, the processing circuit 101 displays a notification of the first weight error on the display device 172. As a result, the processing circuit 101 can appropriately change the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range without requiring confirmation from an attendant. The attendant can then omit the task of confirming whether the product placed on the weighing unit 13 is a product with a limited weight change.

[0099] As described above, if the measured weight of the product is outside the acceptable range when the acceptable range is the first acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 can change the acceptable range from the first acceptable range to the second acceptable range. As a result, the processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range at the necessary timing, thereby ensuring the maintainability of the tolerance range. Furthermore, the tolerance range is not always set to a wide range, but is set to a wide range at the necessary timing. Therefore, the processing circuit 101 can ensure the security of product registration.

[0100] The following describes an example of how to handle changes to the acceptable range in ACT8 mentioned above. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in which the processing circuit 101 of the registration device 10 changes the allowable range from the first allowable range to the second allowable range. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0101] The processing circuit 101 compares the first reference weight X with the second reference weight Y (ACT81). If the second reference weight Y is heavier than the first reference weight X (ACT81, YES), the process transitions from ACT81 to ACT82. If the second reference weight Y is lighter than the first reference weight X (ACT81, NO), the process transitions from ACT81 to ACT83.

[0102] The processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range from a first tolerance range of Xl or more and Xu or less to a second tolerance range of Xl or more and Yu or less (ACT82). In this way, if the measured weight Y of product ZA is heavier than the first tolerance range, the processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range to include values ​​heavier than the measured weight Y of product ZA.

[0103] The processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range from a first tolerance range of Xl or more and Xu or less to a second tolerance range of Yl or more and Xu or less (ACT83). In this way, if the measured weight Y of product ZA is lighter than the first tolerance range, the processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range to include a value lighter than the measured weight Y of product ZA.

[0104] Furthermore, if any one self-checkout machine 1 changes the acceptable weight range, the weight information with the changed acceptable range stored in that self-checkout machine 1 is shared with other self-checkout machines 1. In this example, the self-checkout machine 1 that changed the acceptable weight range sends difference information indicating the difference in the weight information with the changed acceptable range to the server 3 when the checkout is completed. The server 3 distributes the difference information to the other self-checkout machines 1. The other self-checkout machines 1 update the weight information based on the difference information.

[0105] (Example of product registration display when the acceptable range is the first acceptable range) Figure 11 is an example of the product registration screen IA displayed on the display device 172. The product registration screen (IA) is an image used to display information based on product registration.

[0106] The product registration screen IA includes the registered product display area AA. The registered product display area AA is an area for displaying information based on the registration information of each registered product stored in the registration information storage area 1033. In this case, no products have been registered, so the registered product display area AA does not display any information.

[0107] The product registration screen IA includes a product category display area AB. The product category display area AB includes multiple product category buttons that can be operated using the input device 171. A product category is a classification of a group of one or more preset products. For example, product categories may include, but are not limited to, vegetables, fruits, seafood, and prepared foods.

[0108] Figure 12 is an example of a product information notification IB displayed on the display device 172. The display device 172 displays a product information notification IB based on the customer's product registration operation after the product registration screen IA is displayed. The product information notification IB is a display that guides the customer to the product ZA for which the product registration operation was performed. For example, the product information notification IB shows the name, appearance diagram, and unit price of product Z.

[0109] Figure 13 illustrates a first weight error notification IC displayed on the display device 172. If the measured weight of the product obtained after the display of the product information notification IB is not within the acceptable range, the display device 172 displays a first weight error notification IC. The first weight error notification IC is a display that notifies an error regarding the inability to register the product that was registered because the measured weight of product ZA is not within the acceptable range.

[0110] Figure 14 is an example of a notification ID for a limited weight change displayed on the display device 172. The display device 172 displays a limited weight change notification ID based on the reading of a code symbol that records the attendant's identification information after the display of the weight error notification IC. The weight limit change notification ID is displayed to confirm whether the weight error is due to a weight limit change. The weight limit change notification ID includes the "Yes" button BA and the "No" button BB. The "Yes" button BA is a button into which you can input a command to allow the weight limit change to be lifted. The "No" button BB is a button into which you can input a command to deny the weight limit change to be lifted.

[0111] Figure 15 is an example of the product registration screen IE displayed on display device 172. The display device 172 displays the product registration screen IE based on the attendant's input of permission to release the limited weight change after the notification ID for the limited weight change is displayed.

[0112] The product registration screen IE, like the product registration screen IA, is an image used to display information based on product registration. The product registration screen IE, like the product registration screen IA, includes a registered product display area AA and a product category display area AB. For example, the registered product display area AA displays the product name, quantity, and price of product Z, based on the registration information of the registered product.

[0113] (Example of product registration process when the acceptable range is the second acceptable range) Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of product registration processing when the tolerance range set by the processing circuit 101 of the registration machine 10 is within the second tolerance range. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0114] This section explains the process of registering a product ZB during the specified period described above. Product ZB is any single product of a specific type of product Z identified by the product identification information "zzz". The acceptable range for product Z is assumed to be the second acceptable range.

[0115] The processing circuit 101 receives product identification information (ACT21). The processing of ACT21 may be the same as the processing of ACT1. Here, the processing circuit 101 receives the product identification information "zzz" of product ZB for which the product registration operation has been performed.

[0116] The processing circuit 101 obtains the weight information of the product for which the product registration operation has been performed (ACT22). The processing of ACT22 may be the same as the processing of ACT2. Here, the processing circuit 101 obtains the weight information of product Z from the weight information storage area 1032 as the weight information of product ZB for which the product registration operation has been performed.

[0117] The processing circuit 101 obtains the measured weight of the product (ACT23). The processing in ACT23 may be the same as the processing in ACT3. Here, the processing circuit 101 obtains the measured weight of product ZB placed on the weighing unit 13.

[0118] The processing circuit 101 determines whether the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range (ACT24). The processing in ACT24 may be the same as the processing in ACT4. Here, the processing circuit 101 determines whether the measured weight of product ZB is within the acceptable range of product Z. If the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range (ACT24, YES), the process transitions from ACT24 to ACT30. If the measured weight of the product is not within the acceptable range (ACT24, NO), the process transitions from ACT24 to ACT25.

[0119] If the measured weight of the product is outside the acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 displays a notification of the first weight error on the display device 172 (ACT25). The processing in ACT25 may be the same as the processing in ACT5.

[0120] The processing circuit 101 displays a notification of a change in limited weight on the display device 172 based on the reading of a code symbol containing the attendant's identification information using the first reading device 15 or the second reading device 16 (ACT26). The processing of ACT26 may be the same as the processing of ACT6.

[0121] The processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to permit the release of the limited weight change or an instruction to deny the release of the limited weight change (ACT27). The processing in ACT27 may be the same as the processing in ACT7. If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to permit the release of the limited weight change (ACT27, YES), the process transitions from ACT27 to ACT28. If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to deny the release of the limited weight change (ACT27, NO), the process transitions from ACT27 to ACT29. In this case, the processing circuit 101 displays a notification on the display device 172 indicating that an instruction to permit the release of the weight error or an instruction to deny the release of the weight error can be input.

[0122] The processing circuit 101 modifies the tolerance range (ACT28) based on an operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of the limited weight change. ACT28 may also be processed by the modification unit 1013. In ACT28, for example, the processing circuit 101 modifies the tolerance range by modifying the second tolerance range to include a new third tolerance range. The new third tolerance range is a range that includes the measured weight of product ZB as a new second reference weight and has a weight range. Therefore, the second tolerance range is a range that includes the first tolerance range and multiple third tolerance ranges.

[0123] The processing circuit 101 receives either an instruction to allow or deny the weight error release (ACT29). The processing in ACT29 may be the same as the processing in ACT9. If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to allow the weight error release (ACT29, YES), the process transitions from ACT29 to ACT32. If the processing circuit 101 receives an instruction to deny the weight error release (ACT29, NO), the process transitions from ACT29 to ACT23.

[0124] If the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 determines whether the measured weight of the product is within the third acceptable range (ACT30). ACT30 may also be processed by the determination unit 1012. Here, the processing circuit 101 determines whether the measured weight of product ZB is within the third acceptable range of product Z. If the measured weight of the product is within the third acceptable range (ACT30, YES), the process transitions from ACT30 to ACT31. If the measured weight of the product is not within the third acceptable range (ACT30, NO), the process transitions from ACT30 to ACT32. If a product registration operation is performed for inventory of a product with a limited weight change during a predetermined period, the measured weight of the product will be within the third acceptable range.

[0125] If the measured weight of the product is within the third acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 displays a notification of the second weight error on the display device 172 (ACT31). ACT31 may also be processed by the display processing unit 1015. The second weight error is an error related to the inability to register a product that has been registered because its measured weight is within the acceptable range but not within the third acceptable range. The second weight error is an example of a weight error. The notification of the second weight error includes information indicating that the product that has been registered is a product with a limited weight change, where the acceptable range has been changed from the first range to the second range. The notification of the second weight error can be canceled by an attendant, but not by a customer. The process transitions from ACT31 to ACT26.

[0126] The processing circuit 101 registers the product for which the product registration operation has been performed (ACT32). ACT32 may also be processed by the registration processing unit 1014. If the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range but not within the third acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 can register the product for which the product registration operation has been performed. The processing circuit 101 can register the product for which the product registration operation has been performed based on an operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of the limited weight change. The processing circuit 101 can register the product for which the product registration operation has been performed based on an operation to input an instruction from the attendant to allow the release of the weight error. In ACT32, for example, the processing circuit 101 registers the product for which the product registration operation has been performed by adding the registration information of the product for which the product registration operation has been performed. Here, the processing circuit 101 registers product ZB.

[0127] If the above-mentioned specified period is not applicable, the processing of ACT30 and ACT31 is omitted. Therefore, if the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range in ACT24, the process transitions from ACT24 to ACT32. If the measured weight of the product is within the acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 registers the product for which the product registration operation was performed, regardless of whether the measured weight of the product is within the third acceptable range or not.

[0128] As described above, if the measured weight of the product falls within the third acceptable range before a predetermined period has elapsed from a predetermined timing while the acceptable range is within the second acceptable range, the processing circuit 101 displays a notification of the second weight error on the display device 172. This allows the processing circuit 101 to confirm with the attendant whether it is acceptable to register products whose measured weight falls within the third acceptable range during a predetermined period. The attendant can easily visually confirm, upon receiving the notification of the second weight error, that the product being registered is a product with a limited weight change, where the acceptable range has been changed from the first range to the second range. The attendant can easily determine whether the display is a notification of a first weight error due to a normal weight error, or a notification of a second weight error due to the registration of a product in stock with a limited weight change.

[0129] (Example of product registration display when the acceptable range is the second acceptable range) Figure 17 illustrates a second weight error notification interface displayed on the display device 172. The second weight error notification IF includes the message, "This is a product with limited weight variation. Please check," as information indicating that it is a product with limited weight variation.

[0130] (Example of changing the tolerance range from the second tolerance range to the first tolerance range) Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in which the processing circuit 101 of the registration device 10 changes the tolerance range from the second tolerance range to the first tolerance range. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0131] Here, based on the collected measurement results, Server 3 detects that the measured weight of product Z meets a condition when the acceptable range of product Z is within the second acceptable range. The condition is that the weight of product Z remains within the acceptable range for a predetermined period from a predetermined timing, but is not within the third acceptable range. Based on the detection that the measured weight of product Z meets the condition, Server 3 sends an instruction to change the acceptable range of product Z to each registration device 10. The instruction to change the acceptable range of product Z is an instruction to change the acceptable range of product Z from the second acceptable range to the first acceptable range.

[0132] The processing circuit 101 receives an instruction from the server 3 to change the tolerance range of product Z (ACT41). The processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range of product Z from the second tolerance range to the first tolerance range based on the instruction to change the tolerance range of product Z (ACT42). ACT42 may also be processed by the modification unit 1013. In ACT12, for example, if the measured weight of product Z meets the conditions while the tolerance range of product Z is the second tolerance range, the processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range of product Z from the second tolerance range to the first tolerance range. The processing circuit 101 deletes the second reference weight from the weight information of product Z.

[0133] As a result, the processing circuit 101 changes the tolerance range from the second tolerance range to the first tolerance range at the necessary timing, thereby ensuring the maintainability of the tolerance range. Furthermore, the tolerance range is not always set to a wide range, but to a narrow range at the necessary timing. Therefore, the processing circuit 101 can ensure the security of product registration. Even after the measured weight of a product is within the acceptable range but no longer within the third acceptable range, there may still be products with limited weight variation remaining in the store. The processing circuit 101 can wait for a predetermined period of time to elapse, and after all products with limited weight variation have been removed from the store, it can change the acceptable range from the second acceptable range to the first acceptable range.

[0134] <Other Embodiments> In the above-described embodiment, a self-checkout register 1 including a registration machine 10 and a payment machine 20 was described as an example of a registration machine, but it is not limited to this. The registration machine may be equipment that does not include a payment machine. The registration machine may be portable equipment. Portable equipment may be a dedicated terminal mounted on a shopping cart equipped with a weighing scale, a portable terminal prepared in advance by the store, etc., or a portable terminal owned by the customer. The server 3 can collect measurement results indicating the measured weight of products from various types of registration machines, not limited to the self-checkout register 1.

[0135] Each component implemented by the processing circuit 101 described in the above embodiment may be implemented by a server that can communicate with the registration machine 10. In this case, the server is an example of a registration machine that processes product registration.

[0136] The embodiments described above may be applied to methods performed by one or more devices. The embodiments described above may be applied to programs that can cause computers in one or more devices to perform each function. The embodiments described above may be applied to recording media that store programs.

[0137] Each of the one or more circuits that make up a processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs some of the multiple processes. Some of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be contained in a single device, or they may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0138] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0139] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0140] Some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (1) A determination unit that determines whether the measured weight of the product measured by the weighing device is within the acceptable range, If the measured weight of the product is not within the tolerance range when the tolerance range is the first tolerance range, the modification unit changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range. Equipped with, The second tolerance range is a range that includes the first tolerance range and the third tolerance range. The third tolerance range includes the measured weight of the product. Registered device. (2) The modification unit changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range based on the operation of the store clerk. (1) The registered machine described above. (3) If the product is a product that is designated to automatically change the tolerance range, the changing unit changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range without requiring any operation by a store employee. (1) The registered machine described above. (4) The modifying unit changes the tolerance range from the second tolerance range to the first tolerance range if, while the tolerance range is the second tolerance range, the measured weight of the product remains within the tolerance range for a predetermined period from a predetermined timing but is not within the third tolerance range. (1) The registered machine described above. (5) When the tolerance range is the second tolerance range, the display processing unit further provides a display unit that displays a notification if the measured weight of the product falls within the third tolerance range before a predetermined period has elapsed from a predetermined timing. (1) The registered machine described above. (6) To the computer, A function to determine whether the measured weight of a product measured by a weighing device is within the acceptable range, When the tolerance range is the first tolerance range, if the measured weight of the product is not within the tolerance range, the function changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range. A program capable of executing, The second tolerance range is a range that includes the first tolerance range and the third tolerance range. The third tolerance range includes the measured weight of the product. program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 1...Self-checkout, 2...Attendant terminal, 3...Server, 10...Registration machine, 20...Accounting machine 20, 11...Enclosure, 12...Basket stand, 13...Scale unit, 14...Support column, 15...First reading device, 16...Second reading device, 17...Touch panel, 21...Coin slot, 22...Coin dispensing outlet, 23...Banknote slot, 24...Banknote dispensing outlet, 25...Printing device, 26...Card reader, 101...Processing circuit, 102...Main memory, 103...Storage, 104...Connection interface, 105...Communication interface, 131...Top view, 132...Support column, 133...Temporary stand, 134...Branch section, 171...Input device, 172...Display device, 201...Processing circuit, 202...Main memory, 20 3...Storage, 204...Connection Interface, 205...Communication Interface, 206...Coin Change Machine, 207...Banknote Change Machine, 1011...Reception Unit, 1012...Determination Unit, 1013...Change Unit, 1014...Registration Processing Unit, 1015...Display Processing Unit, 1031...Product Information Storage Area, 1032...Weight Information Storage Area, 1033...Registration Information Storage Area, AA...Registered Product Display Area, AB...Product Category Display Area AB, BA..."Yes" Button, BB..."No" Button, IA...Product Registration Screen, IB...Product Information Notification, IC...Notification of First Weight Error, ID...Notification of Limited Weight Change, IE...Product Registration Screen, IF...Notification of First Weight Error, NW...Network, S...Information Processing System.

Claims

1. A determination unit that determines whether the measured weight of the product measured by the weighing device is within the acceptable range, When the tolerance range is the first tolerance range, if the measured weight of the product is not within the tolerance range, a modification unit changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range. Equipped with, The second tolerance range is a range that includes the first tolerance range and the third tolerance range. The third tolerance range includes the measured weight of the product. Registered device.

2. The modification unit changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range based on the operation of the store clerk. The registered machine according to claim 1.

3. If the product is one that is designated to automatically change the tolerance range, the changing unit changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range without requiring any operation from a store employee. The registered machine according to claim 1.

4. The modification unit changes the tolerance range from the second tolerance range to the first tolerance range if, while the tolerance range is the second tolerance range, the measured weight of the product remains within the tolerance range for a predetermined period from a predetermined timing but is not within the third tolerance range. The registered machine according to claim 1.

5. The system further includes a display processing unit that displays a notification on the display unit if, while the tolerance range is the second tolerance range, the measured weight of the product falls within the third tolerance range before a predetermined period has elapsed from a predetermined timing. The registered machine according to claim 1.

6. On the computer, A function to determine whether the measured weight of a product measured by a weighing device is within the acceptable range, When the tolerance range is the first tolerance range, if the measured weight of the product is not within the tolerance range, the function changes the tolerance range from the first tolerance range to the second tolerance range. A program capable of executing, The second tolerance range is a range that includes the first tolerance range and the third tolerance range. The third tolerance range includes the measured weight of the product. program.

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