Product sales data processing system, employee equipment, and program

Abstract

To support store employees in providing appropriate support to customers. [Solution] The product sales data processing system includes a customer device and a store clerk device. The customer device is used by the customer to register products and to settle payments for products, at least one of which is done by the customer. The store clerk device is operated by a store clerk. The store clerk device can receive input from the store clerk to notify the customer device of errors. The customer device makes the notification when the store clerk device receives the input.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a product sales data processing system, a device for store clerks, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets, POS (Point Of Sales) registers that enable customers to perform self-checkout without the intervention of store clerks have become widespread. In such POS registers, since customers operate the POS register, there may be cases of fraud by customers or cases where customers cannot operate efficiently. Therefore, a self-checkout system is known in which an attendant terminal displays the operating status and error occurrence status of the self-checkout terminal (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in self-checkout, even if there are suspicious customers or customers who are confused about the operation, if there is no error in the self-checkout, there is no opportunity for the store clerk to talk to the customer, so the store clerk may hesitate to approach the customer. For this reason, there has been a problem that new store clerks or shy store clerks may not be able to provide appropriate support to customers.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a technology that can assist store clerks in providing appropriate support to customers.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a product sales data processing system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, wherein the store clerk device is capable of receiving input from the store clerk for the customer device to provide notification regarding an error, and the customer device provides the notification when the store clerk device receives the input. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the installation of the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 3] Block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the monitoring device 11. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the general operation of a fully self-service vehicle. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of how error notifications and voice prompt notifications are processed in a fully self-service vehicle. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a voice notification screen 800 displayed on a POS terminal device 20-3 in full self-service mode. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the journal screen 900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. [Figure 10] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the detailed screen 1000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. [Figure 11]This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the imaging screen 1100 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the general operation of a semi-self-service vehicle. [Figure 13] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of how error notifications and verbal notification systems are handled in a semi-self-service system. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the employee-side display unit 210 of the registered POS terminal device 20a in a semi-self-service configuration. [Figure 15] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an urgency level table 1500 related to error notifications. [Figure 16] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of error notification and voice notification processing related to Modification Example 1. [Figure 17] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error confirmation screen 1700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. [Figure 18] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the voice notification screen 1800 displayed on a self-checkout machine (modification example 1). [Figure 19] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error selection screen 1900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. [Figure 20] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 2000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11 when an error occurs. [Figure 21] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen in Modification Example 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] (Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a plurality of POS terminal devices 20-1, 20-2, 20-n (n≧2), a store controller (store computer, management device) 10, and a monitoring device 11. Hereinafter, when there is no particular distinction between the POS terminal devices 20-1, 20-2, 20-n, they are collectively referred to as the POS terminal device 20. The store controller 10, the monitoring device 11, and the POS terminal device 20 are communicably connected via the LAN 55. In this embodiment, the number “n” of the POS terminal devices 20 is “3”, but it is not limited to this, and for example, it may be “1”.

[0009] The POS system 1 can be introduced into various stores such as supermarkets, home centers, convenience stores, and various supply stores. The store controller 10 stores various types of information necessary for transactions such as a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (for example, JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, and selling price of each product. In addition, the product master includes product identification information, product name, unit price of the product to be measured, etc. of the product that requires measurement (product to be measured). In addition to the product master, the store controller 10 also stores various types of information such as inventory status, sales history, and deposit and withdrawal records. In addition, the store controller 10 may store customer membership information.

[0010] The monitoring device 11 is a device for a store clerk to monitor the POS terminal device 20. Specifically, the monitoring device 11 can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. In the POS system 1, it is possible to arrange one store clerk in the monitoring device 11 and have the store clerk monitor the POS terminal device 20.

[0011] The POS terminal device 20 is a register that registers and settles goods. The POS terminal device 20 can receive an operation related to settlement from a customer and perform settlement processing. Regarding the registration of goods, it may be performed by a store clerk or by a customer.

[0012] Note that the POS system 1 may include a store clerk terminal held 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 notification information for calling a store clerk from the POS terminal device 20 and display the same.

[0013] (Installation example of the POS terminal device 20) FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an installation example of the POS terminal device 20. FIG. 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal device 20 as viewed from the customer side. FIG. 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal device 20 as viewed from the store clerk side. As shown in FIG. 2(A), a counter is placed on the right side of the POS terminal device 20 as viewed from the customer side. Although omitted in the illustration, in FIG. 2(A), a counter is also placed on the left side of the POS terminal device 20. That is, counters are placed on both sides of the POS terminal device 20. The counter can hold a shopping basket.

[0014] In addition, the POS terminal device 20 includes a sign pole 220. The sign pole 220 includes a light emitting part. The light emitting part of the sign pole 220 is, for example, a lamp or an LED (light emitting diode), and can be lit in a predetermined color and a predetermined lighting mode. The lighting mode of the sign pole 220 indicates that the POS terminal device 20 is in use or indicates a warning. The sign pole 220 is provided upward, and it is possible for a store clerk not near the POS terminal device 20 to recognize the lighting mode.

[0015] (Configuration example of the POS terminal device 20) Next, the configuration of the POS terminal device 20 will be described using FIGS. 2 and 3. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. In Figures 2 and 3, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0016] The following describes an example configuration of the POS terminal device 20 shown in Figure 3, with reference to Figure 2. The POS terminal device 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, a hard disk 204, a customer-side display unit 205, a customer-side scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change dispenser 209, a staff-side display unit 210, a key operation unit 211, a staff-side scanner unit 212, a printing unit 213, an audio output unit 214, a communication unit 215, and a camera 216. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0017] 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 product sales data processing program according to this embodiment. ROM202 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU201, including programs.

[0018] 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 processing. This information includes, for example, registration information (registration data) generated during the registration process to register products, and settlement information generated during the settlement process to settle (pay for) registered products (purchased products).

[0019] 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 216. The hard disk 204 may store various programs, such as product sales data processing programs executed by the CPU 201, instead of the ROM 202. Alternatively, it may store information acquired from external sources or information generated during processing, instead of the RAM 203.

[0020] 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. The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers that optically reads various types of information. 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). In addition to the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may also read codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, discount vouchers) and various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.). Note that product registration is not limited to registration by reading codes with the customer-side scanner unit 206. For example, it is also possible to display a preset key (a button to order a product) corresponding to a product on the customer-side display unit 205, and register a product when the customer operates (presses) the preset key.

[0021] 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 (reading 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 to settle the payment for purchased goods. The card recognition unit can also recognize information to be used in the settlement of the purchased goods, for example, when using points held on a point card. Furthermore, the card recognition unit can also recognize information that is not used in the settlement of the purchased goods, for example, when awarding points to a point card.

[0022] 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).

[0023] The change dispenser 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement 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.

[0024] The employee-side display unit 210 is a touch display for employees. The employee-side display unit 210 displays various information to employees and accepts various inputs from them. The employee-side display unit 210 displays preset keys (buttons to order products) corresponding to products, and when an employee operates (presses) one of these preset keys, the product is registered.

[0025] The key operation unit 211 consists of various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 receives various inputs from store staff. Specifically, the key operation unit 211 includes a mode switching button, a batch switching button, and a dedicated payment mode switching button. The mode switching button is used to switch the operating mode. The batch switching button is used to switch the operating mode of each POS terminal 20 at once when operated on a specific POS terminal device 20 (for example, a POS terminal device 20 that the store manager is logged into). The dedicated payment mode switching button is used to switch to the "dedicated payment mode," which will be described later.

[0026] The mode switching button is a button that switches between modes in a predetermined order each time it is pressed. This order is pre-set, for example, as follows: Normal mode → Full self-service mode → Payment-only mode → Normal mode →… Therefore, to switch from Normal mode to Payment-only mode, the store clerk needs to press the mode switching button twice.

[0027] The buttons used to switch modes are not limited to hard keys (mechanical keys) such as mode switching buttons; they may also be selection buttons (soft keys) displayed on the employee-side display unit 210. These selection buttons may, for example, display multiple buttons corresponding to the destination modes. Specifically, if the current mode is normal mode, buttons for switching to checkout-only mode and buttons for switching to full self-service mode may be displayed. This makes it possible to switch modes with a single touch. In other words, the employee does not need to press buttons multiple times; they only need to press the button for the mode they want to switch to. However, the selection buttons displayed on the employee-side display unit 210 may be a single button, similar to the mode switching button, and each press may switch to the destination modes in a predetermined order.

[0028] Furthermore, while the button for switching modes is generally displayed on the staff-side display unit 210, it is not limited to this and may also be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. For example, if it is clear that a staff member is on the customer side, the button can be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. Situations where a staff member is clearly on the customer side include cases where the customer uses the customer-side scanner unit 206 to access the staff-only maintenance screen, or where the customer accesses the staff-only maintenance screen by operating the customer-side display unit 205.

[0029] The employee-side scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for employees and optically reads various types of information. For example, the employee-side scanner unit 212 optically reads barcodes attached to products and employee codes attached to employee name tags. In addition to the above, the employee-side scanner unit 212 may also read codes printed on payment slips, gift certificates, and various cards.

[0030] Furthermore, product registration is not limited to registration by reading a code using the store clerk's scanner unit 212. For example, a key corresponding to a product (e.g., XX Newspaper) may be placed on the key operation unit 211, and the product may be registered when the store clerk operates (presses) that key.

[0031] 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. Specifically, the printing unit 213 has a rotatable mechanism and is configured so that the media output slot faces from the employee side to the customer side, or from the customer side to the employee side. The direction of the media output slot may be changed manually, or it may be changed automatically in accordance with the switching of the operating mode. The printing unit 213 may also be equipped with a sensor to detect whether the direction of the printing output slot is correct or incorrect.

[0032] The audio output unit 214 outputs sound. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs voice guidance and warning sounds. The voice guidance and warning sounds are related to product registration and payment. The communication unit 215 is an interface for sending and receiving information with other devices (store controller 10, monitoring device 11, and other POS terminal devices 20).

[0033] Camera 216 is mounted to the upper right of the customer-side display unit 205, as viewed from the customer's perspective. Camera 216 is a camera that continuously captures video or still images. Camera 216 can be a CCD (charge coupled device) camera or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) camera. Camera 216 captures the customer's actions during checkout. Specifically, camera 216 captures images of banknotes and coins held by the customer, the change machine 209, and hand movements. Camera 216 also captures the customer's actions when registering items. Specifically, camera 216 can capture images of the inside of the shopping baskets (items) on the counters located on both sides of the POS terminal 20, as well as the customer's actions during registration.

[0034] (Overview of each operating mode) Next, the operating modes of the POS terminal device 20 will be described. The POS terminal device 20 has multiple operating modes. These multiple operating modes are operating modes during normal business operations (operating modes related to registration processing and settlement processing), and include a normal mode, a dedicated accounting mode, and a full self-service mode. The POS terminal device 20 is controlled to one of these multiple operating modes.

[0035] In addition to the modes mentioned above, there are also other operating modes such as aggregation mode, maintenance mode, and training mode. Aggregation mode is used to aggregate and inquire about sales, inventory, etc. Maintenance mode is used when store employees or maintenance personnel perform setup and maintenance tasks. Training mode is used when new employees undergo training.

[0036] The following sections will primarily describe the normal mode, the checkout-only mode, and the fully self-service mode in detail. Note that, in the following, the POS terminal 20 operating in checkout-only mode and the POS terminal 20 operating in fully self-service mode may be collectively referred to as "self-checkout."

[0037] (Normal mode) The normal mode is an operating mode in which the store clerk's product registration (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "product registration") is enabled and the customer's product registration is disabled. In other words, the normal mode is an operating mode in which the store clerk's registration process is executed without executing the customer's registration process. During the store clerk's product registration, the store clerk's scanner unit 212, the store clerk's display unit 210, and the key operation unit 211 are used to register the purchased products.

[0038] In addition, in normal mode, customers can make payments by inserting currency (banknotes and coins) and reading various cards. Specifically, in normal mode, for example, it is possible to accept cash payments (inserting currency into the change machine 209).

[0039] Furthermore, in normal mode, it is possible to transmit registration information to other POS terminal devices 20. Transmitting registration information to other POS terminal devices 20 means transmitting the registration information generated during the registration process to other POS terminal devices 20 (self-checkout) capable of performing settlement processing. Note that the registration information may be transmitted directly from POS terminal device 20 to other POS terminal devices 20, or it may be transmitted indirectly to other POS terminal devices 20 via other devices such as the store controller 10 or monitoring device 11. In the following description, the transmission and reception of information between each device will not be described in detail, but it may be transmitted directly between each device or indirectly via other devices.

[0040] In addition, in normal mode, it is possible to issue payment slips. Issuing payment slips involves encoding the registration information generated during the registration process and printing it on a printing medium (sheet). Other POS terminal devices 20 (self-checkout registers) can read the code on the payment slip to obtain the registration information and perform the settlement process.

[0041] (Payment-only mode) The payment-only mode is an operating mode that enables the reception of registration information from other POS terminal devices 20, the reading of payment slips, and the insertion of money, while disabling product registration on both the store clerk's and customer's sides. Specifically, the reception of registration information from other POS terminal devices 20 is a function that receives registration information generated during the registration process of the POS terminal device 20 in normal mode.

[0042] Reading the receipt involves reading the code printed on the receipt. The payment-only mode is an operating mode in which the terminal does not perform the registration process itself, but instead uses the registration information generated by another POS terminal device 20 to perform the settlement process. Since the payment-only mode is an operating mode in which the registration process is not performed, that is, since registration information is not generated, the transmission of registration information to other POS terminal devices 20 and the issuance of receipts are disabled in this operating mode.

[0043] (Full self mode) Full self-service mode is an operating mode that enables customer-side product registration. In other words, full self-service mode is an operating mode that assumes customer-side registration processing. During customer-side product registration, the customer registers purchased items using the customer-side scanner unit 206 and customer-side display unit 205.

[0044] In addition, in full self-service mode, it is possible to enable product registration by the store staff. In other words, full self-service mode is an operating mode that assumes customer-side registration but also allows registration by the store staff. However, in full self-service mode, it is also possible to disable product registration by the store staff.

[0045] Furthermore, the full self-service mode is an operating mode that allows the terminal to perform settlement processing on its own. Specifically, the full self-service mode is an operating mode that enables the insertion of currency but disables the transmission of registration information to other POS terminal devices 20 and the issuance of payment slips.

[0046] Furthermore, the full self-service mode, like the dedicated payment mode, is an operating mode in which both the reception of registration information from other POS terminal devices 20 and the reading of payment slips are enabled. In other words, just like the dedicated payment mode, in full self-service mode, settlement processing can be performed using registration information generated by other POS terminal devices 20.

[0047] (Regarding enabling and disabling various functions) Furthermore, the above explanation stated that the POS terminal 20 has different functions (such as registering products on the part of the store clerk, registering products on the part of the customer, inserting money, and reading payment slips) that are enabled or disabled depending on the operating mode. In other words, the above explanation stated that the operating mode of the POS terminal 20 is set by enabling or disabling some of the functions of the POS terminal 20.

[0048] However, the POS terminal device 20 only needs to have different executable functions for each operating mode, and does not necessarily need to have all functions. For example, the POS terminal device 20 may obtain programs to implement the functions required for each operating mode from an external device (e.g., store controller 10, monitoring device 11, off-site server, etc.) and make them executable, while keeping programs to implement functions that are not required for each operating mode may render such programs unexecutable (e.g., by deleting them). In this case, regardless of the destination operating mode, the POS terminal device 20 may first render all programs unexecutable, and then obtain programs to implement the functions required for that operating mode from an external source and make them executable.

[0049] (Example configuration of monitoring device 11) Next, the configuration of the monitoring device 11 will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 4, the monitoring device 11 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a hard disk 304, a display unit 305, an audio output unit 306, and a communication unit 307. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0050] The CPU 301 is a central processing unit that controls the operation of the monitoring device 11 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 302. These various programs include the product sales data processing program according to this embodiment. ROM302 is read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU301, including programs.

[0051] RAM303 is a read-and-write memory that stores various types of information. For example, RAM303 displays information obtained from external sources (such as registration information and settlement information obtained from the POS terminal device 20) and information generated during processing.

[0052] The hard disk 304 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 304 stores registration information and settlement information obtained from the POS terminal device 20. The hard disk 304 may store various programs, such as product sales data processing programs executed by the CPU 301, instead of the ROM 302. Alternatively, it may store information obtained from external sources or information generated during processing, instead of the RAM 303.

[0053] The display unit 305 is a touch display. The display unit 305 displays various information to the store clerk and also accepts various inputs from the store clerk. The audio output unit 306 outputs audio. The communication unit 307 is an interface for sending and receiving information with other devices (store controller 10 and POS terminal device 20).

[0054] (Regarding customer support provided by store staff) Here, in self-checkout systems (full self-checkout mode or self-checkout mode), store staff provide support to customers (hereinafter referred to as "customer support"). Specifically, customer support includes, for example, store staff assisting customers with operations related to product registration and payment. Customer support also includes operations performed by store staff to resolve various errors that occur in the POS terminal device 20. Examples of various errors include receipt paper out errors, near-full change errors where the number of bills is close to the maximum number that can be stored in the designated storage area of ​​the change dispenser 209, and near-end change errors where the number of coins in the storage area is insufficient.

[0055] In this situation, even if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the self-checkout system, if there is no error in the POS terminal 20 that the customer is using, there is no reason for the store clerk to speak to the customer. For this reason, store clerks may hesitate to speak to customers. In particular, new or shy store clerks may not be able to provide appropriate support to customers.

[0056] Therefore, in this embodiment, a mechanism is in place to provide an opportunity for store staff to speak to customers who appear suspicious or are having trouble operating the system. The functional configuration of the POS system 1 according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0057] (Functional configuration of POS system 1 in a fully self-service configuration) First, the functional configuration of the POS system 1 in its fully self-service configuration will be described. In this embodiment, the POS system 1 can take on any of several configurations, including a fully self-service configuration and a semi-self-service configuration, which will be described later.

[0058] A fully self-service system is one in which the POS terminal 20 operates in fully self-service mode, and the monitoring device 11 monitors customer operations performed by store staff. The POS system 1 comprises a customer device and a store staff device. The customer device is implemented by the POS terminal 20 in fully self-service mode.

[0059] The customer device allows the customer to register products and to pay for them, at least one of which is done by the customer. The customer device comprises a mode control unit and a notification unit. The mode control unit operates in one of several operating modes, including an operating mode in which the customer pays for the products. In the fully self-service configuration, the mode control unit controls the POS terminal device 20 to fully self-service mode. In the semi-self-service configuration described later, the mode control unit controls the POS terminal device 20 to payment-only mode.

[0060] The staff device is operated by a staff member. The staff device is implemented by the monitoring device 11. The staff device includes a reception unit. The reception unit can receive input from a staff member for issuing error notifications (hereinafter referred to as "verbal notifications") in the fully self-service POS terminal device 20. Specifically, the reception unit displays a verbal notification button 710a (see Figure 7) for receiving such input and accepts when the verbal notification button 710a is pressed. For example, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system, the staff member presses the verbal notification button 710a. When the verbal notification button 710a is pressed, the monitoring device 11 sends a notification instruction to the POS terminal device 20 to issue a verbal notification.

[0061] Here, the notification unit of the customer device issues an error notification when an error occurs. The error notification may, for example, lock the POS terminal device 20 so that the customer cannot operate it. The error notification also includes various notifications (notifications such as that an error has occurred, the type of error that occurred, and that a store employee has been called).

[0062] Furthermore, the notification unit issues a verbal notification when the monitoring device 11 receives a notification input. Specifically, when the POS terminal device 20 receives a notification instruction from the monitoring device 11, the notification unit issues a verbal notification. A verbal notification is, for example, a notification that makes it appear as if an error has occurred, even though there is no actual error. Also, a verbal notification is similar to an error notification, and specifically, it prevents the customer from performing any operations and includes various notifications (notifications such as an error has occurred, the type of error that occurred, and that a store employee is being called). The notification unit issues the verbal notification by voice or display.

[0063] Furthermore, the notification unit may illuminate the sign pole 220 in a predetermined lighting pattern to provide a verbal notification. The predetermined lighting pattern includes, for example, a normal notification lighting pattern and a special lighting pattern. The special lighting pattern is, for example, a lighting pattern that is less likely to be noticed by a customer when there is a possibility that the customer is engaging in fraudulent activity.

[0064] Furthermore, the voice notification does not have to be the same as the error notification. For example, the voice notification is not limited to locking the device, but may also allow the customer to perform operations. Also, the voice notification is not limited to automatically calling a store employee, but may also be a notification that prompts the customer to call an employee, such as "Please call a store employee." In addition, the voice notification may be a notification that indicates a preliminary stage to an error, such as "The paper will run out soon."

[0065] Furthermore, the errors announced in the voice notification are pre-set. For example, communication errors are pre-set as errors to be announced in the voice notification. Therefore, when the voice notification button 710a is pressed on the monitoring device 11, the notification unit will issue a voice notification indicating a communication error. Note that the pre-set errors may be changed by the store clerk. That is, for example, the pre-set errors are not limited to communication errors, but can also be changed to errors related to the change machine (near-full change).

[0066] The termination condition for the verbal notification is, for example, when the POS terminal device 20 receives input of predetermined information from the store clerk. This predetermined information may include, for example, the input of a store clerk code, login information, or a password. Here, the termination condition for the error notification differs from that of the verbal notification; in addition to inputting the predetermined information, the error state must also be resolved. On the other hand, the termination condition for the verbal notification is that there is no error state, so the error state must not be resolved, and only the input of the predetermined information is required.

[0067] The reception unit is implemented by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11. In other words, the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11 implements the functions of the reception unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

[0068] Furthermore, the mode control unit and the notification unit are implemented by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20. In other words, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 implements the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

[0069] (Operation in fully self-service configuration) Next, we will explain the operation in the fully self-service configuration using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the general operation in a fully self-service configuration. Specifically, Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the processing flow and the actions of people (store staff, customers) in fully self-service mode. As shown in the upper part of Figure 5, in fully self-service mode, the POS terminal device 20 receives customer operations using the customer-side display unit 205 and the customer-side scanner unit 206, and the customer registers the purchased items themselves.

[0070] While the customer is registering their purchased items, the POS terminal 20 displays the total amount of the purchased items on the customer-side display unit 205. When the registration of the purchased items is complete and the registration completion key is pressed (instruction to start payment), the POS terminal 20 performs the payment process as shown in the lower part of Figure 5. During the payment process, the customer confirms the total amount of the purchased items displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 and makes the payment. Specifically, the customer makes the payment by inserting cash into the change machine 209 or by operating the card payment unit 208. In this way, in full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 performs both the registration process and the payment process based on customer operations.

[0071] Furthermore, in the fully self-service configuration, a store employee is stationed at the monitoring device 11, and the employee monitors the customers. The employee also handles errors and provides support to customers who appear suspicious or are having trouble operating the system.

[0072] (Notification processing in fully self-service configurations) Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of error notification and voice notification processing in a fully self-service system. Note that the processes performed by the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 shown in Figure 6 are started continuously (periodically at very short time intervals) in each device. In Figure 6, the monitoring device 11 determines whether or not it has received a press of the voice notification button 710a (see Figure 7) (step S601).

[0073] If the monitoring device 11 does not receive a press of the voice notification button 710a (step S601: NO), it terminates the series of processes. If the monitoring device 11 receives a press of the voice notification button 710a (step S601: YES), it sends a notification instruction to the POS terminal device 20 to trigger a voice notification (step S602), and terminates the series of processes.

[0074] The POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode determines whether or not an error has been detected (step S603). If no error is detected (step S603: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S605. If an error is detected (step S603: YES), the POS terminal device 20 issues an error notification corresponding to the detected error and stops its operation (step S604).

[0075] The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether or not it has received a notification instruction from the monitoring device 11 (step S605). If it does not receive a notification instruction from the monitoring device 11 (step S605: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S607. If it has received a notification instruction from the monitoring device 11 (step S605: YES), the POS terminal device 20 issues a voice notification and stops its operation (step S606). In the voice notification, the POS terminal device 20 displays, for example, a voice notification screen 800 (see Figure 8) indicating a communication error.

[0076] The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether or not it is currently broadcasting an error notification or a voice prompt notification (step S607). If it is not currently broadcasting (step S607: NO), the POS terminal device 20 terminates the series of processes. If it is currently broadcasting (step S607: YES), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not a notification termination operation has been performed (step S608). A notification termination operation, for example, to terminate a voice prompt notification, is an operation to input the employee code or login information, and to terminate an error notification, it includes operations to resolve the error state in addition to these inputs. The POS terminal device 20 waits until a notification termination operation is performed (step S608: NO), and if a notification termination operation is performed (step S608: YES), it terminates the error notification or voice prompt notification (step S609) and terminates the series of processes.

[0077] (Example screen for a fully self-service setup) Next, we will explain an example of a screen in the fully self-service configuration using Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 7, the monitoring screen 700 is a screen that includes a status display 701 and function buttons 710, which are displayed corresponding to each of the three POS terminal devices 20 in fully self-service mode. The function buttons 710 include a voice notification button 710a, a journal switching button 710b, and a webcam button 710c.

[0078] In Figure 7, the status indicator 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 for register number 1 indicates standby. The status indicator 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 for register number 2 indicates settlement in progress. The status indicator 701 corresponding to the POS terminal device 20 for register number 3 indicates registration in progress.

[0079] The alert button 710a is a button that accepts notification input for issuing an error notification (alert notification). For example, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system, when the alert button 710a is pressed by a store employee, the alert screen 800 shown in Figure 8 is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 of the corresponding POS terminal device 20.

[0080] In the diagram, the voice notification button 710a can accept both the designation of the POS terminal device 20 and the instruction to issue a voice notification with a single touch, but it is not limited to this, and may be designed to accept multiple touches. Specifically, for example, a button that accepts the instruction to issue a voice notification may be displayed, and after this button (first touch) is pressed, the designation of the POS terminal device 20 to issue the voice notification (second touch) may be accepted.

[0081] The journal switching button 710b is a button that accepts a switch to the journal information display screen. When the journal switching button 710b is pressed, the corresponding POS terminal device 20 switches to the journal screen 900 shown in Figure 9. The webcam button 710c is a button that switches to the image captured by the camera 216. When the webcam button 710c is pressed, the corresponding POS terminal device 20 switches to the image capture screen 1100 shown in Figure 11.

[0082] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a voice notification screen 800 displayed on a POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode. The voice notification screen 800 indicates a communication error. It also indicates that an employee is being called and that the customer should wait until an employee arrives. When an employee comes to the POS terminal device 20, they can use the communication error as a pretext to speak to the customer or visually check for any fraudulent activity. Furthermore, when an employee code or login information is entered on the voice notification screen 800, the display of the voice notification screen 800 is cleared and the system returns to the original screen (for example, the registration screen or the payment screen).

[0083] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a journal screen 900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. In Figure 9, the journal of the POS terminal device 20 (for example, POS terminal device 20-3) of register number 3 is described. In Figure 9, the journal screen 900 includes a register number display area 901, an operation display area 902, a status display area 903, a journal display area 904, and function buttons 710.

[0084] The register number display area 901 is the area that displays the register number of the POS terminal device 20. The operation display area 902 is the area that displays operations on the POS terminal device 20 and messages displayed on the POS terminal device 20. The status display area 903 is the area that displays one of the current statuses of the POS terminal device 20 (registering, settlement, standby) (for example, registering).

[0085] The journal display area 904 is an area that displays the operation details of the POS terminal device 20, registered products, and various error messages. The function buttons 710 include a voice notification button 710a, a webcam button 710c, a log search button 710d, a change information button 710e, a notification cancellation button 710f, and a start screen button 710g.

[0086] The functions of the voice notification button 710a and the webcam button 710c are the same as in Figure 7. The log search button 710d accepts a search for past journals and displays past journals by, for example, entering a predetermined keyword or date and time. The change information button 710e accepts a switch to displaying the change information of the change dispenser 209 (for example, information regarding near-full status and near-end status).

[0087] The notification cancellation button 710f is a button that accepts the cancellation of the voice notification. In this embodiment, when a voice notification is issued to a standby POS terminal 20, the notification cancellation button 710f is enabled to accept a press. On the other hand, when a voice notification is issued to a POS terminal 20 during registration or settlement processing, the notification cancellation button 710f is disabled to prevent it from being pressed, and a store employee is instructed to go to the POS terminal 20 that issued the voice notification and cancel it.

[0088] The start screen button 710g is a button that accepts a request to return the screen of the POS terminal device 20 to the start screen (remote control). When the register number display area 901 is pressed on the journal screen 900, the journal details screen is displayed. In addition, it is possible to display various buttons not shown (log search button 710d, change information button 710e, notification cancellation button 710f, and start screen button 710g) on ​​the monitoring screen 700 shown in Figure 7.

[0089] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a detailed screen 1000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 10, the detailed screen 1000 includes a journal details display area 1001, a display switching button 1002, and a function button 710. The journal details display area 1001 is an area that displays details such as the operation content of the POS terminal device 20-3, registered products, and various error messages. In addition, the text color and background color of the journal details display area 1001 change according to the current status of the POS terminal device 20-3 being displayed. For example, the journal details display area 1001 is displayed with a background color according to the current status, such as registering, settling, waiting, error notification, or voice notification.

[0090] The display switching button 1002 is a button that accepts a request to switch to the detailed screen 1000 of the POS terminal device 20 indicated by the displayed number. The display switching button 1002 is displayed with text and background colors according to the current status, such as error notification or voice notification. In Figures 7, 9, and 11, when the webcam button 710c is pressed, the system transitions to the imaging screen 1100 shown in Figure 11.

[0091] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the imaging screen 1100 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 11, the imaging screen 1100 includes an imaging display area 1101, a display switching button 1002, and a function button 710. The imaging display area 1101 shows the image captured by the camera 216. For example, a store employee looks at the imaging display area 1101 and presses the alert button 710a if they see a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the device. This causes the POS terminal device 20 (POS terminal device 20 number 3 in the figure) to issue an alert, providing an opportunity for the store employee to speak to the customer.

[0092] (Functional configuration of POS system 1 in semi-self-service configuration) Next, the functional configuration of the POS system 1 in semi-self-service mode will be described. Semi-self-service mode is a specification in which the equipment for store staff is implemented by a POS terminal device 20 in normal mode, and the equipment for customers is implemented by a POS terminal device 20 in payment-only mode. In the following, the POS terminal device 20 in normal mode in semi-self-service mode may be referred to as "registration POS terminal device 20a," and the POS terminal device 20 in payment-only mode may be referred to as "settlement POS terminal devices 20b, 20c."

[0093] In the semi-self-service configuration, the mode control unit and the notification unit are implemented by the CPU 201 of the settlement POS terminals 20b and 20c. That is, the CPU 201 of the settlement POS terminals 20b and 20c implements the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program). Note that the customer device is not limited to being implemented by the settlement POS terminals 20b and 20c, but may also be implemented by a dedicated device for settlement.

[0094] Furthermore, in the semi-self-service configuration, the reception section is implemented by the CPU 201 of the registered POS terminal device 20a. That is, the CPU 201 of the registered POS terminal device 20a implements the functions of the reception section by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program). Note that the staff device is not limited to being implemented by the registered POS terminal device 20a, but may also be implemented by a dedicated device for registering products.

[0095] The reception area can receive notification inputs from store staff for issuing verbal notification alerts at the settlement POS terminals 20b and 20c (for example, by pressing the verbal notification buttons 1420a and 1420b in Figure 14). For example, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the terminal, the store staff will press the verbal notification button 1420 (verbal notification buttons 1420a and 1420b). When the verbal notification button 1420 is pressed, the registered POS terminal 20a sends a notification instruction to the POS terminal 20 (settlement POS terminal 20b) in settlement mode to issue a verbal notification alert.

[0096] Here, the POS terminal device 20 is capable of receiving notification inputs depending on the operating mode in which it is operating. Specifically, the POS terminal device 20 can only receive notification inputs when it is controlled in normal mode. In other words, when the POS terminal device 20 is controlled in full self-service mode or payment-only mode, it does not accept presses of the voice notification button 1420. To put it another way, the POS terminal device 20 is capable of accepting presses of the voice notification button 1420 depending on the operating mode.

[0097] Furthermore, the notification unit issues a verbal notification when the registered POS terminal device 20a receives a notification input. Specifically, when the verbal notification button 1420 is pressed on the registered POS terminal device 20a, it sends a notification instruction to the settlement POS terminal device 20b. The settlement POS terminal device 20b receives the notification instruction from the registered POS terminal device 20a. Upon receiving the notification instruction, the notification unit issues a verbal notification. The error indicated by the verbal notification is, for example, a communication error.

[0098] (Operation in semi-self-service mode) Next, we will explain the operation in the semi-self-service configuration using Figure 12. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the general operation of a semi-self-service system. Specifically, Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the processing flow and the actions of people (staff, customers) in a semi-self-service system. Figure 12 explains the case where POS terminal 20-1 is in normal mode (registration POS terminal 20a) and POS terminals 20-2 and 20-3 are in payment-only mode (settlement POS terminals 20b and 20c).

[0099] As shown in Figure 12(A), the registration POS terminal 20a is used by the store clerk to register the customer's purchased items. When the store clerk is registering items on the registration POS terminal 20a, the payment POS terminals 20b and 20c are in standby mode.

[0100] Then, when the registration POS terminal 20a completes the registration of purchased items and receives a press of the start payment button (for example, the subtotal button), it performs the payment process as shown in Figure 12(B). During the payment process, the customer confirms the total amount of purchased items displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 and makes the payment. Specifically, the customer makes the payment by inserting cash into the change dispenser 209 or by operating the card payment unit 208.

[0101] Thus, in normal mode, the registration POS terminal 20a can perform settlement processing based on customer operations. Furthermore, the registration POS terminal 20a can accept the customer's selection of payment type (payment method) and accept the insertion of cash into the change dispenser 209 before the registration process is completed. For example, the registration POS terminal 20a may be configured to accept the insertion of cash into the change dispenser 209 once a product has been registered, that is, when the registration data is displayed and output.

[0102] Furthermore, the registered POS terminal device 20a can register the next customer's purchases even before the customer completes their payment (even before change is dispensed or a receipt is printed). In other words, the registered POS terminal device 20a can register the next customer's purchases while its own payment processing is underway. Also, the store clerk may be absent while the customer is paying. In other words, the store clerk may finish assisting the customer while the customer is paying.

[0103] Furthermore, once the registration process by the store clerk is complete, the registration POS terminal 20a can also transmit the registration information to the payment POS terminals 20b and 20c, as shown in Figure 12(C). For example, the registration POS terminal 20a can receive a designation from the store clerk for either the payment POS terminals 20b or 20c (for example, the payment POS terminal 20b). Alternatively, the registration POS terminal 20a can receive the issuance of a payment slip to be read by the payment POS terminals 20b and 20c.

[0104] When the payment POS terminal 20b receives registration information from the registration POS terminal 20a, or reads the code on the payment slip, it displays the total amount of purchased items on the customer-side display unit 205. Then, as shown in Figure 12(C), the customer moves to the payment POS terminal 20b, confirms the total amount of purchased items displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 of the payment POS terminal 20b, and makes the payment. Specifically, the customer makes the payment by inserting cash into the change dispenser 209 of the payment POS terminal 20b, or by operating the card payment unit 208.

[0105] (Notification processing in semi-self-service configuration) Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of error notification and verbal notification processing in a semi-self-service system. Note that the processes performed by the registration POS terminal 20a and the settlement POS terminal 20b shown in Figure 13 are started continuously (periodically at very short time intervals) in each device. In Figure 13, the registration POS terminal 20a determines whether or not it has received a press of the verbal notification button 1420 (see Figure 14) (step S1301).

[0106] If the registered POS terminal 20a does not receive a press of the voice notification button 1420 (step S1301: NO), it terminates the series of processes. If the registered POS terminal 20a receives a press of the voice notification button 1420 (step S1301: YES), it sends a notification instruction to the settlement POS terminal 20b to trigger a voice notification (step S1302), and terminates the series of processes.

[0107] The POS terminal device 20b determines whether or not it has detected an error (step S1303). If no error is detected (step S1303: NO), the POS terminal device 20b proceeds to step S1305. If an error is detected (step S1303: YES), the POS terminal device 20b issues an error notification corresponding to the detected error and stops its operation (step S1304).

[0108] Then, the settlement POS terminal 20b determines whether or not it has received a notification instruction from the registered POS terminal 20a (step S1305). If it does not receive a notification instruction from the registered POS terminal 20a (step S1305: NO), the settlement POS terminal 20b proceeds to step S1307. If it has received a notification instruction from the registered POS terminal 20a (step S1305: YES), the settlement POS terminal 20b issues a verbal notification and stops operating (step S1306). In the verbal notification, for example, a verbal notification screen indicating a communication error is displayed.

[0109] The POS terminal 20b then determines whether or not it is currently broadcasting an error notification or a voice notification (step S1307). If it is not broadcasting (step S1307: NO), the POS terminal 20b terminates the series of processes. If it is broadcasting (step S1307: YES), the POS terminal 20b determines whether or not a notification termination operation has been performed (step S1308). A notification termination operation, for example, to terminate a voice notification, is an operation to input the employee code or login information, and to terminate an error notification, it includes operations to resolve the error state in addition to these inputs. The POS terminal 20b waits until a notification termination operation is performed (step S1308: NO), and if a notification termination operation is performed (step S1308: YES), it terminates the error notification or voice notification (step S1309) and terminates the series of processes.

[0110] (Example screen for semi-self-service configuration) Next, Figure 14 will be used to explain an example screen in the semi-self-service specification. Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the employee-side display unit 210 of the registration POS terminal device 20a in a semi-self-service configuration. In Figure 14, the registered product display 1401 shows the product most recently registered by the employee. The registered product list display 1402 shows a list of products registered by the employee. The total amount display 1403 shows the total amount of the products registered by the employee.

[0111] The preset key 1404 includes product display keys 1404a, each representing a different product. Each product display key 1404a, when pressed by a store employee, registers the corresponding product. The preset key 1404 also includes a type change key 1404b, which allows switching between different types such as vegetables, fruits, and meat. In Figure 14, the type change key 1404b is shown in the state where the vegetable type is pressed. When a type change key 1404b representing fruit or meat is operated, the system switches to the product display key corresponding to the operated type change key 1404b.

[0112] The mode display 1405 indicates the current mode of the POS terminal device 20-2 (for example, the payment-only mode). The mode display 1405 includes a voice notification button 1420a. The voice notification button 1420a is a button that accepts notification input for providing notification about errors. For example, if a customer operating the POS terminal device 20-2 seems suspicious or is having trouble operating it, the store clerk can press the voice notification button 1420a, and the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal device 20-2 will display a screen corresponding to the voice notification screen 800 shown in Figure 8.

[0113] The mode display 1406 indicates the current mode of the POS terminal device 20-3 (for example, the payment-only mode). The mode display 1406 includes a voice notification button 1420b. The voice notification button 1420b is a button that accepts notification input for providing notification about errors. For example, if a customer operating the POS terminal device 20-3 is suspicious or confused about how to operate it, the store clerk can press the voice notification button 1420b, and the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal device 20-3 in payment-only mode will display a screen similar to the voice notification screen 800 shown in Figure 8.

[0114] In the diagram, the voice notification buttons 1420a and 1420b can accept the designation of the POS terminal device 20 and the instruction to issue a voice notification with a single touch, but this is not limited to this, and multiple touches may be required. Specifically, for example, a button that accepts the instruction to issue a voice notification may be displayed, and after this button (first touch) is pressed, the designation of the POS terminal device 20 to issue the voice notification (second touch) may be accepted.

[0115] The subtotal button 1407 is the button that accepts the completion of product registration. Once all products have been registered, the store clerk presses the subtotal button 1407. The payment slip button 1408 is the button that accepts the issuance of a payment slip. If payment is to be made using another POS terminal device 20, the store clerk presses the payment slip button 1408.

[0116] The register designation buttons 1409 and 1410 accept the designation of the settlement POS terminals 20b and 20c to which the registration information will be sent. The register designation button 1409 accepts the designation of POS terminal 20-2 as the destination for the registration information. When the register designation button 1409 is pressed, the registration information is sent to POS terminal 20-2, and settlement is performed at POS terminal 20-2. The register designation button 1410 accepts the designation of POS terminal 20-3 as the destination for the registration information. When the register designation button 1410 is pressed, the registration information is sent to POS terminal 20-3, and settlement is performed at POS terminal 20-3.

[0117] As described above, in the POS system 1 according to this embodiment, the staff device (for example, the monitoring device 11 or the registered POS terminal device 20a) receives input from the staff to issue a voice alert (for example, pressing the voice alert buttons 710a and 1420), and the customer device (self-checkout) issues the voice alert. As a result, the customer device can appear to be in an error state even though it is not. This allows customers to call a staff member, or staff members to go to suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the system, thus creating an opportunity for staff members to speak to customers. In addition, staff members can press the voice alert button and immediately go to the customer device, allowing them to respond to customers quickly. Therefore, even new or shy staff members can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the staff device is a monitoring device 11. This allows staff members monitored by the monitoring device 11 to initiate conversations with suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the system. Therefore, even new or shy staff members can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers in a fully self-service environment.

[0119] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the device for store staff is a POS terminal device 20 in normal mode for registering products. This allows store staff to initiate conversations with suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the system. Therefore, even new or shy store staff can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers in a semi-self-service environment.

[0120] Furthermore, in this embodiment, notification input can be received according to the operating mode of the POS terminal device 20. This allows notification input to be received when the POS terminal device 20 is in normal mode, but not when it is in payment-only mode or full self-service mode. Therefore, since notification input can be received according to the operating mode of the POS terminal device 20 when a store employee is present, it is possible to support the employee in providing appropriate support to customers in a semi-self-service setting.

[0121] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the customer device is a self-checkout system (POS terminal device 20 in payment-only mode or POS terminal device 20 in full self-checkout mode) where at least the payment for goods is made by the customer. This allows for verbal guidance to be provided at the self-checkout. Therefore, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system, it provides an opportunity for a store employee to speak to the customer who is performing the payment. Thus, even new or shy store employees can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers at the self-checkout.

[0122] (Modified version of the embodiment) The following describes five modified examples of the embodiment. In each of the following modified examples, explanations of the contents described in the above-described embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. It is also possible to combine the configurations shown in the above-described embodiment and modified examples 1 to 5. Specifically, a configuration may include all of the above-described embodiment and modified examples 1 to 5, or a configuration may be a combination of the above-described embodiment and one of modified examples 1 to 5.

[0123] (Variation 1) First, let's describe Modification 1 of the Embodiment. In the Embodiment described above, the customer device provides a verbal notification indicating a communication error. In addition to this configuration, or as an alternative to this configuration, Modification 1 describes a configuration in which the customer device provides a verbal notification selected according to the urgency of the error notification.

[0124] First, the urgency level table 1500 for error notification will be explained using Figure 15. Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the urgency level table 1500 for error notification. The urgency level table 1500 is stored in each POS terminal device 20. As shown in Figure 15, the urgency level table 1500 includes items for error type and urgency level for error notification.

[0125] The error type indicates one of the following, for example: paper out error, near-end change, near-full change, time error, communication error, or unscanned error. A paper out error indicates that the receipt paper has run out. A time error is when a certain amount of time has elapsed since the start of the registration or settlement operation. A communication error is when a communication failure occurs that prevents communication with other devices. An unscanned error is, for example, when an item is placed in a basket that should be placed in the customer after scanning, but is not scanned.

[0126] Here, each error has a threshold set for it. For example, for a paper out error, the threshold is set to several tens of centimeters remaining. The urgency of error notification indicates the degree to which the error is approaching the threshold for error notification for each type of error. Specifically, the urgency of error notification is indicated as one of three levels: "low," "medium," or "high." A "low" urgency of error notification indicates that the error is not close to the threshold for error notification, meaning the urgency is low. A "high" urgency indicates that the error is close to the threshold for error notification, meaning the urgency is high. A "medium" urgency indicates that the error is neither close nor far from the threshold for error notification, meaning the urgency is moderate.

[0127] For example, in the urgency table 1500 shown in Figure 15, the error type "Out of Paper Error" has an urgency level of "High" regarding error notification. In other words, it indicates that an out-of-paper error has not yet occurred, but is approaching.

[0128] Furthermore, in Modification 1, the staff device can receive notification input from the staff depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or a non-error state. Specifically, the staff device does not accept notification input from the staff when the customer device is in an error state. For example, if the customer device is in an error state, the staff device can hide the notification button for verbal communication or disable its press. On the other hand, the staff device accepts notification input from the staff when the customer device is not in an error state (i.e., a non-error state). For example, if the customer device is not in an error state, the staff device can display the notification button for verbal communication.

[0129] The following describes the processing of Modification 1. In the following, the fully self-service and semi-self-service specifications will be described together, and the main components of the processing will be described as the employee's equipment and the self-checkout register. In the fully self-service specification, the employee's equipment is the monitoring device 11, and the self-checkout register is the POS terminal device 20. In the semi-self-service specification, the employee's equipment is the registration POS terminal device 20a, and the self-checkout registers are the payment POS terminal devices 20b and 20c.

[0130] (Notification process related to modified example 1) Figure 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of error notification and voice notification processing according to Modification 1. Note that the processes performed by the employee device and self-checkout shown in Figure 16 are started continuously (periodically at very short time intervals) in each device.

[0131] In Figure 16, the self-checkout system determines whether or not an error has been detected (step S1601). If no error is detected (step S1601: NO), the self-checkout system proceeds to step S1608. If an error is detected (step S1601: YES), the self-checkout system transmits the error details, including the fact that an error occurred and the type of error, to the monitoring device 11 (step S1602). The self-checkout system then issues an error notification corresponding to the detected error and stops its operation (step S1603).

[0132] The staff device determines whether or not it has received error information from the self-checkout (step S1604). If it has not received error information (step S1604: NO), the staff device proceeds to step S1606. If it has received error information (step S1604: YES), the staff device disables the voice notification button on the POS terminal device 20 that is in an error state (step S1605).

[0133] The staff device then determines whether or not it has received confirmation that the voice notification button has been pressed (step S1606). If the staff device does not receive confirmation that the voice notification button has been pressed (step S1606: NO), it proceeds to step S1610. If the staff device has received confirmation that the voice notification button has been pressed (step S1606: YES), it sends a request to transmit the urgency of the error notification (step S1607).

[0134] The self-checkout system determines whether or not it has received a request from the employee device to transmit the urgency of the error notification (step S1608). If it does not receive a request to transmit the urgency of the error notification (step S1608: NO), the self-checkout system proceeds to step S1615. If it has received a request to transmit the urgency of the error notification (step S1608: YES), the self-checkout system transmits the urgency of the error notification to the monitoring device 11 (step S1609).

[0135] The staff device determines whether or not it has received an error notification regarding urgency from the self-checkout machine (step S1610). If it does not receive an error notification regarding urgency from the self-checkout machine (step S1610: NO), the staff device proceeds to step S1612. If it has received an error notification regarding urgency from the self-checkout machine (step S1610: YES), the staff device identifies the error based on the urgency level (step S1611). Specifically, the staff device identifies an error with a "high" urgency level. The staff device then displays an error selection screen or the like to prompt the staff to select an error (step S1612). Alternatively, the system may simply notify the staff of the error identified based on the urgency level without prompting them to select an error.

[0136] Next, the staff device determines whether or not there is an error selection (step S1613). If there is no error selection (step S1613: NO), the staff device terminates the series of processes. If there is an error selection (step S1613: YES), the staff device sends an alert instruction to the self-checkout register to trigger a verbal alert (step S1614), and terminates the series of processes.

[0137] The self-checkout system determines whether or not it has received a notification from the employee device (step S1615). If it does not receive a notification from the employee device (step S1615: NO), the self-checkout system proceeds to step S1617. If it receives a notification from the employee device (step S1615: YES), the self-checkout system issues a verbal notification and stops operating (step S1616). In the verbal notification, the self-checkout system displays a verbal notification screen indicating the error selected by the employee device.

[0138] The self-checkout system then determines whether or not it is currently broadcasting an error notification or a voice prompt notification (step S1617). If it is not broadcasting (step S1617: NO), the self-checkout system terminates the series of processes. If it is broadcasting (step S1617: YES), the self-checkout system determines whether or not a notification termination operation has been performed (step S1618). A notification termination operation, for example, to terminate a voice prompt notification, is an operation to input an employee code or login information, and to terminate an error notification, it includes not only this input but also an operation to resolve the error state. The self-checkout system waits until a notification termination operation is performed (step S1618: NO), and if a notification termination operation is performed (step S1618: YES), it terminates the error notification or voice prompt notification (step S1619) and terminates the series of processes.

[0139] (Screen example in modified example 1) Next, we will explain the screen examples in Modification 1 using Figures 17 to 20. In the following explanation, we will describe the screen examples of the monitoring device 11 as examples of the store clerk's device, and will omit the explanation of the screen examples of the registration POS terminal device 20a.

[0140] Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the error confirmation screen 1700 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 17, the error confirmation screen 1700 displays a message prompting notification of a paper out error. This is based on the fact that the urgency level for error notification for the error type "paper out" is "high," as shown in the urgency level table 1500 (see Figure 15).

[0141] If the "Yes" button is pressed on the error confirmation screen 1700, the POS terminal device 20 displays the voice notification screen 1800 shown in Figure 18. On the other hand, if the "No" button is pressed on the error confirmation screen 1700, the screen of the monitoring device 11 transitions to the error selection screen 1900 shown in Figure 19.

[0142] Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the voice notification screen 1800 displayed in Modification 1 of the self-checkout system. The voice notification screen 1800 indicates a paper out error. The voice notification screen 1800 also indicates that an employee has been called and that the customer should wait until an employee arrives. When an employee comes to the POS terminal 20, they can speak to the customer under the pretext of changing the paper and visually check for any fraudulent activity. Furthermore, once the employee code and login information are entered on the voice notification screen 1800 and the paper is changed, the display of the voice notification screen 1800 is cleared and the screen returns to the original screen.

[0143] Figure 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an error selection screen 1900 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. As shown in Figure 19, the error selection screen 1900 is a screen that allows the selection of various errors. In this way, store employees can also select the type of notification to be given to the customer. For example, if a store employee selects a communication error, the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal device 20 will display a notification screen 800 (see Figure 8) indicating a communication error.

[0144] (Monitoring screen when an error occurs) Figure 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 2000 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11 when an error occurs. As shown in Figure 20, the monitoring screen 2000 is a screen that includes status displays 701 and function buttons 710 for each of the three POS terminal devices 20 in full self mode.

[0145] In Figure 20, the status indicator 701 corresponding to POS terminal device 20 for register number 1 indicates standby. The status indicator 701 corresponding to POS terminal device 20 for register number 2 indicates settlement in progress. The status indicator 701 corresponding to POS terminal device 20 for register number 3 indicates a near-end error state.

[0146] Since POS terminal 20 for register number 3 is in a near-end error state, the voice notification button 710a corresponding to POS terminal 20 for register number 3 is displayed in gray, meaning it is disabled. Note that the voice notification button 710a corresponding to POS terminal 20 for register number 3 does not need to be displayed on the monitoring screen 2000. Thus, in this modified example 1, since the error screen is already displayed for POS terminal 20 in an error state, it is not possible to accept a press of the voice notification button 710a.

[0147] In Modification 1, when the staff device receives a press of the voice notification button 710a, it selects an error according to the urgency of the error notification and issues a voice notification. Therefore, it is possible to make it appear as if an error has occurred for error types that are likely to result in an error soon, serving as a trigger for the staff to speak to the customer. This helps prevent the occurrence of such errors while supporting the customer appropriately.

[0148] Furthermore, in Modification 1, the staff device allows the staff to press the voice notification button 710a depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or not. This makes it possible to prevent the staff from pressing the voice notification button 710a when an error state is present, as the error state needs to be resolved and the staff has an opportunity to speak to the customer.

[0149] (Modification 2) Next, we will describe Modification 2. In Modification 1 described above, we explained a configuration in which a voice notification screen is displayed on the self-checkout when the voice notification button 710a is pressed. In Modification 2, we will describe a configuration in which the voice notification screen is displayed according to the status of the self-checkout when the voice notification button 710a is pressed.

[0150] In Modification 2, when the self-checkout register is in a standby state, pressing the voice notification button 710a on the staff device causes the self-checkout register to enter a paused state, that is, a state where it cannot be used by customers. This allows staff to perform maintenance, for example. On the other hand, when the self-checkout register is in a registration or payment state, pressing the voice notification button 710a on the staff device causes the self-checkout register to emit a voice notification.

[0151] Furthermore, the voice notification button 710a for the staff when the self-checkout machine is in a standby state may have a different display mode than the voice notification button 710a for the staff when the self-checkout machine is in a registration or payment state. For example, the voice notification button 710a for the staff when the self-checkout machine is in a standby state may be displayed as an "emergency lock button".

[0152] In this modified version 2, when the voice notification button 710a is pressed, a voice notification is issued at the self-checkout register depending on its status. This allows for voice notifications to be issued while the customer is performing registration or payment operations at the self-checkout register. Furthermore, if the self-checkout register is in standby mode, a store employee can press the voice notification button 710a to put it into standby mode and perform maintenance on the POS terminal device 20.

[0153] (Variation 3) Next, we will describe Modification 3. In the embodiment described above, we described a shopping system in which the customer operates the POS terminal device 20 to register or pay for products. In Modification 3, we will describe a shopping system in which the customer operates a customer terminal to register products and the customer operates the POS terminal device 20 to pay for products.

[0154] In Modification 3, the shopping system includes a customer terminal, a cloud server, a payment device, and a monitoring device 11. The customer terminal is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet. The customer terminal may be a device owned by the customer or a device leased by the store. The customer terminal may also be installed on a shopping cart or held by the customer.

[0155] The cloud server registers the products read by the customer terminal. The payment device then receives the registration information used for payment from the cloud server and performs the payment. The payment device is implemented by a POS terminal device 20 in either a dedicated payment mode or a fully self-service mode. However, the payment device may also be implemented by a device dedicated to performing payments. The monitoring device 11 is a device for store employees to monitor customer registration and payment operations.

[0156] The following is a brief explanation of the process from product registration to checkout in the shopping system. (1) The customer uses the camera function of their terminal to read the product code (e.g., barcode) attached to the product. When the customer terminal reads the product code, it sends the product code information indicated by the read product code to the cloud server. The customer terminal may send the product code information to the cloud server each time it reads a product code, or it may store the read product code information sequentially and send the product code information to the cloud server all at once when it accepts the start of payment. (2) The cloud server stores cart information, including cart identification information that identifies the customer (customer terminal). When the cloud server receives product code information from the customer terminal, it stores product information corresponding to the product code information in the cart information. (3) Once the customer has finished registering the items to be purchased, they press the "Start Checkout" button displayed on the customer terminal. Upon receiving confirmation that the "Start Checkout" button has been pressed, the customer terminal displays a checkout code (e.g., a 2D code) containing the cart identification information on the customer terminal's display (touch panel). (4) The customer then has the reader of the POS terminal 20 (payment device) read the payment code. When the POS terminal 20 reads the payment code, it requests the cloud server to send the registration information necessary for payment. The request includes the cart identification information indicated by the read payment code. (5) When the cloud server receives a request to send registration information from the POS terminal device 20, it identifies the cart information using the cart identification information included in the request and generates registration information. The cloud server then sends the generated registration information to the POS terminal device 20. (6) When the POS terminal device 20 receives registration information from the cloud server, it starts the settlement process using the received registration information.

[0157] Next, we will explain how to provide a voice notification in Modification 3. In Modification 3, the store clerk device is implemented by the monitoring device 11. However, the store clerk device may also be implemented by a portable terminal carried by the store clerk. In Modification 3, the reception unit is implemented by the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11. That is, the CPU 301 of the monitoring device 11 implements the functions of the reception unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

[0158] Furthermore, in Modification 3, the customer device is implemented by the customer terminal used when registering a product. The notification unit is implemented by the CPU of the customer terminal. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 of the customer terminal implements the functions of the notification unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

[0159] Furthermore, the customer device is implemented by the POS terminal device 20 at the time of settlement. The mode control unit and the notification unit are implemented by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 in either the accounting-only mode or the full self-service mode. In other words, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal device 20 in either the accounting-only mode or the full self-service mode implements the functions of the mode control unit and the notification unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

[0160] The reception unit (staff device) receives a call notification button 2111 (see Figure 21) from a staff member. For example, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system, the staff member presses the call notification button 2111. When the call notification button 2111 is pressed, if it is during product registration, the monitoring device 11 sends a notification instruction to the customer terminal to initiate a call notification. Also, if the call notification button 2111 is pressed during payment, the monitoring device 11 sends a notification instruction to the POS terminal device 20 to initiate a call notification.

[0161] (Screen example in modified example 3) Figure 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the screen in modified example 3. Figure 21(A) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 2100 displayed on the display unit 305 of the monitoring device 11. The monitoring screen 2100 includes a transaction count area AR30 (AR30-1, AR30-2, AR30-3), display instruction buttons BT30 (BT30-1, BT30-2, BT30-3), and a transaction list area AR40.

[0162] The first transaction count area AR30-1 indicates the total number of customer terminals currently using the shopping app (a specified application program) to make purchases. Specifically, the first transaction count area AR30-1 indicates the total number of customer terminals (total number of transactions) involved in a transaction from start to finish (e.g., when payment is completed).

[0163] The second transaction count area, AR30-2, shows the number of customer terminals conducting transactions with registered pending items (hereinafter referred to as "abnormal transactions") out of the total number of transactions. Pending items are items that require verification by a store employee. For example, pending items include NO-FILE items, unscanned items, items requiring age verification, items requiring removal of security tags, and pharmaceuticals.

[0164] NO file products are, for example, products that are not registered in the product master. Unscanned products include products that failed to be read due to wrinkles on the product packaging, pseudo-scanned products that were placed in the cart after scanning parts without codes, and non-scanned products that were placed in the shopping cart without the operation of positioning the product within the camera's imaging range.

[0165] Age-recognition products are items such as alcohol and tobacco, where a store employee must verify the customer's age before sale. Products with security tags are items that have security tags attached, such as those exceeding a certain price. Pharmaceuticals are products where a qualified person, such as a pharmacist, must explain the product to the purchaser.

[0166] The third transaction count area, AR30-3, shows the number of customer terminals conducting transactions in which no pending products are registered (hereinafter referred to as "normal transactions") out of the total number of transactions.

[0167] The transaction list area AR40 displays a list screen of customer terminals that are conducting any of the following transactions: abnormal transactions, normal transactions, and total transactions. In Figure 21, the transaction list area AR40 shows the list screen for abnormal transactions. The second transaction count area AR30-2 is highlighted in a predetermined manner (for example, with a thick border) to make it easier to recognize that the list screen for abnormal transactions is being displayed.

[0168] The display instruction buttons BT30 (BT30-1, BT30-2, BT30-3) are buttons that accept the operation to switch to one of the transaction list screens, which is either an abnormal transaction, a normal transaction, or a total transaction. The first display instruction button BT30-1 is a button that accepts a request to switch to the list screen of all transactions (all customer terminals). The second display instruction button BT30-2 is a button that accepts a request to switch to the screen listing customer terminals that are conducting abnormal transactions. In the illustration, since the screen listing abnormal transactions is displayed, the second display instruction button BT30-2 is indicated as being unusable, for example, by being grayed out. The third display instruction button, BT30-3, is a button that accepts a request to switch to the list screen of customer terminals that are conducting normal transactions.

[0169] The transaction list area AR40 displays the transaction details 2110 for each customer terminal. The transaction details 2110 include the "transaction start time," "member number," "type of abnormal transaction," "number of items purchased," "total amount," "elapsed time," "terminal type," and the voice notification button 2111. "Transaction start time" indicates the time when a transaction using the shopping ring was initiated (for example, the time of registration of one item). A "membership number" is, for example, customer identification information.

[0170] The "type of abnormal transaction" is represented by an icon. Examples of icons include "Insurance," "Year," "Cart Abandonment," and "Caution." The "Hold" icon indicates that either a "NO file" product or a "Reading NG" product is registered as a held product. Note that different icons may be displayed for "NO file" products and "Reading NG" products. Specifically, for example, the "n" icon may be displayed for "NO file" products, and the "Read" icon may be displayed for "Reading NG" products. The "Year" icon indicates, for example, that a pending product for age verification is registered.

[0171] The "cart abandonment" icon indicates that a fraudulent act known as "cart abandonment" may have occurred. Specifically, the "cart abandonment" icon indicates that either a product that was supposedly scanned and added, or a product that was not scanned and added, is being held in reserve. Note that different icons may be displayed for products that were supposedly scanned and products that were not scanned. Specifically, for example, a "suspected" icon may be displayed for products that were supposedly scanned and a "non-scanned" icon may be displayed for products that were not scanned and added.

[0172] The "Caution" icon indicates transactions conducted by members who are registered as persons of concern in the customer information stored by the transaction management server (specifically, members with low customer ranks). Persons of concern are, for example, individuals who have previously committed fraudulent acts, individuals who may have committed fraudulent acts, or individuals who have difficulty with the settlement operations on the POS terminal 20 or the registration operations on the customer terminal each time they make a purchase. It is desirable for store staff to monitor such persons of concern. Therefore, transactions by persons of concern are included in the category of abnormal transactions.

[0173] "Number of items purchased" indicates the number of registered items at the moment. "Total amount" indicates the total amount at the moment. "Elapsed time" indicates the time elapsed since the start of the transaction.

[0174] "Terminal Type" indicates either "Customer-Owned Terminal" or "Store Terminal." "Customer-Owned Terminal" indicates that the customer terminal being used is the customer's property. "Store Terminal" indicates that the customer terminal being used is a store-provided item.

[0175] Each transaction detail 2110 is displayed in order (newest first), for example, according to the transaction start time (registration start time). In the diagram, the transaction details 2110 of the most recent 1 to 10 abnormal transactions are displayed. Since there are 11 or more abnormal transactions, the transaction list area AR40 is displayed across multiple pages. Therefore, it is possible to perform operations such as scrolling and page turning to display pages (transaction list area AR40) that are not currently displayed on the screen.

[0176] The order in which each transaction item 2110 is arranged is not limited to the order in which the transaction started. For example, it may be arranged in order of the number of items on hold, in order of the number of items purchased, in order of the type of item on hold, or in order of proximity between the customer terminal and the POS terminal device 20. The spatial relationship can be obtained using location information obtained by the GPS unit of the customer terminal or the results of communication between the customer terminal and beacons installed at predetermined locations within the store.

[0177] Each transaction item 2110 can be operated (pressed). When a transaction item 2110 is pressed, the transaction details screen (product name, unit price, etc.) is displayed. Although not explained here, it is also possible to display a list screen for normal transactions and total transactions similar to the list screen for abnormal transactions.

[0178] The alert button 2111 is a button that accepts the request to issue an alert. For example, if the monitoring screen 2100 determines that a customer possessing the customer terminal indicated by transaction details 2110 (number 10) is suspicious, the store clerk presses the alert button 2111. When the alert button 2111 is pressed, a confirmation display 2120 is displayed. The confirmation display 2120 includes a "Yes" button and a "No" button. If the store clerk presses the "Yes" button, if the product is being registered, the alert is sent to the customer terminal; if the transaction is being processed, the alert is sent to the POS terminal device 20.

[0179] Figure 21(B) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen 2130 for calling a staff member, which is displayed on the customer terminal Ct. The notification screen 2130 indicates a communication error. It also indicates that a staff member is being called and that the customer should wait until the staff member arrives. When the staff member arrives, they can use the communication error as a pretext to speak to the customer or visually check for any fraudulent activity. Furthermore, when the staff member performs the prescribed operation on the notification screen 2130 and enters the staff member code, login information, password, etc., the notification screen 2130 is cleared and the screen returns to the original screen (product registration screen).

[0180] Figure 21(C) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a voice notification screen 2140 displayed on the POS terminal device 20. The voice notification screen 2140 indicates a communication error. It also indicates that an employee is being called and that the customer should wait until the employee arrives. When the employee arrives, they can use the communication error as a pretext to speak to the customer or visually check for any fraudulent activity. Furthermore, when the employee code, login information, password, etc. are entered on the voice notification screen 2140, the display of the voice notification screen 2140 is cleared and the system returns to the original screen (settlement screen).

[0181] According to Modification 3, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 receives input for issuing a verbal alert (pressing the verbal alert button 2111) from the monitoring store clerk, and the customer terminal issues a verbal alert. This allows the monitoring device 11 to create an opportunity for the store clerk to speak to a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system during product registration. Therefore, even new or shy store clerks can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers during product registration in the shopping system.

[0182] Furthermore, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 receives input from the monitoring store employee to issue a verbal alert (pressing the verbal alert button 2111), and the customer terminal Ct issues a verbal alert. This allows the monitoring store employee, who is monitoring the product registration process, to initiate a conversation with the customer if they encounter a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system. Therefore, even new or shy store employees can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers when registering products in the shopping system.

[0183] Furthermore, in the shopping system, the monitoring device 11 receives input from the monitoring store clerk to issue a verbal alert (by pressing the verbal alert button 2111), and the POS terminal device 20 issues the verbal alert. This allows the monitoring device 11 to create an opportunity for the store clerk to speak to a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system during checkout. Therefore, even new or shy store clerks can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers during checkout in the shopping system.

[0184] (Modification 4) Next, we will describe Modification 4. In the embodiment described above, the products registered by the customer were mainly ordinary products with barcodes. Modification 4 describes a case in which, in addition to or instead of this configuration, the products registered by the customer are weighable products that are weighed using a scale (self-weighing).

[0185] In Modification 4, for example, the shopping system shown in Modification 3 is further equipped with a weighing device and a store clerk terminal. The weighing device is a computer device that weighs the items to be weighed. The weighing device calculates the price of the items to be weighed using the weighed weight (or number) and the unit price of the items to be weighed. The items to be weighed are different from ordinary items. Here, ordinary items are, for example, items that have a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code. When the customer terminal reads the JAN code, it queries the cloud server for the read JAN code and obtains the price data associated with the JAN code.

[0186] On the other hand, weighed goods are items whose price varies depending on their weight or quantity. Specifically, weighed goods include fresh foods such as vegetables, fruits, fresh fish, and meat, as well as prepared foods. The weighing device prints and outputs a label that codes the price, weight, etc., of the weighed goods. This label includes the price. In other words, the labels (barcodes) attached to weighed goods use a non-PLU (Price Look Up) method.

[0187] A store employee terminal is a portable computer device carried by a store employee, such as a smartphone.

[0188] Next, we will explain how to perform a voice notification in Modification 4. The employee terminal is an example of an employee device. The employee terminal can display a monitoring screen 2100 (see Figure 21) which includes a voice notification button 2111. In Modification 4, the reception unit is implemented by the CPU of the employee terminal. That is, the CPU of the employee terminal implements the functions of the reception unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

[0189] Furthermore, in Modification 4, the customer device is implemented by the weighing device during weighing. In other words, the notification unit is implemented by the CPU of the weighing device. Specifically, the CPU of the weighing device implements the functions of the notification unit by executing a predetermined program (product sales data processing program).

[0190] In this case, when weighing using a weighing device, if a customer commits fraud by further bagging items after weighing is complete, or if a customer is confused about the operation, the store clerk presses the alert button 2111 on the clerk terminal. When the alert button 2111 is pressed, if it is during self-weighing and product registration, the clerk terminal sends an alert instruction to the weighing device to issue an alert. The weighing device then issues an alert. The alert issued by the weighing device is an error related to the weighing function, such as an error correcting the tare value (the value of the container). The store clerk may also be able to select which alerts the weighing device issues.

[0191] In Modification 4, the staff device is not limited to being implemented by a staff terminal, but may also be implemented by a monitoring device. Specifically, the monitoring device in Modification 4 monitors self-weighing by customers. The monitoring device also displays a monitoring screen 2100 (see Figure 21) including a voice notification button 2111. A staff member is also stationed at the monitoring device. When the staff member presses the voice notification button 2111 on the monitoring device, if it is during self-weighing to register an item, the monitoring device should send a notification instruction to the weighing device to trigger a voice notification. In this way, the weighing device can also trigger a voice notification.

[0192] Furthermore, while Modification 4 is based on the shopping system shown in Modification 3, it is not limited to this. For example, Modification 4 can also be applied to a POS system where customers weigh their items themselves and pay at a POS terminal 20 or self-checkout counter where a store employee is present. However, in this case, the employee's equipment is implemented by the monitoring device described above. That is, an employee positioned at the monitoring device can press the voice notification button 2111 displayed on the monitoring device to cause the weighing device to emit a voice notification.

[0193] Furthermore, in Modification 4, the customer device is not limited to being implemented by a weighing device, but may also be implemented by a customer terminal Ct. For example, if the voice notification button 2111 is pressed on the employee terminal, and the product is being registered by self-weighing, the employee terminal may send a notification instruction to the customer terminal Ct to issue a voice notification. The customer terminal Ct then issues the voice notification. The voice notification issued by the customer terminal Ct may be, for example, an error related to the weighing function.

[0194] According to Modification 4, in self-weighing using a weighing device, the employee's device (e.g., employee terminal) receives input from the employee to issue a verbal notification (pressing the verbal notification button 2111), and the customer terminal (e.g., weighing device) issues the verbal notification. This provides an opportunity for the employee to speak to a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the device when registering products using self-weighing. Therefore, even new or shy employees can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers when registering products using self-weighing.

[0195] (Variation 5) Next, Modification 5 will be described. In the embodiment described above, in the case of a fully self-service configuration, the monitoring device 11 is configured to monitor the customer. In Modification 5, in addition to or instead of this configuration, in the case of a semi-self-service configuration, the monitoring device 11 may be configured to monitor the customer.

[0196] In Modification 5, a store employee is stationed at the monitoring device 11. The monitoring device 11 monitors the customer's payment operations at the POS terminal device 20 (settlement POS terminal devices 20b, 20c) in payment-only mode. The monitoring device 11 receives a notification from the employee being monitored by pressing the notification button 710a (see Figure 7). Upon receiving this notification, the settlement POS terminal devices 20b, 20c issue a notification based on instructions from the monitoring device 11.

[0197] Even in this way, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system during checkout, the monitoring device 11 can provide an opportunity for the store clerk monitoring the system to speak to the customer. Therefore, even new or shy store clerks can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers during checkout using the semi-self-service POS system 1.

[0198] Furthermore, in a semi-self-service configuration, the monitoring device 11 can monitor customer transactions (face-to-face transactions) at the registered POS terminal 20a. However, when face-to-face transactions are performed, a store employee is stationed at the registered POS terminal 20a, so the employee at the monitoring device 11 does not need to speak to the customer performing the face-to-face transaction. For this reason, the monitoring device 11 may choose not to display the notification button 710a (see Figure 7) for calling out to customers, which corresponds to the registered POS terminal 20a. Specifically, the monitoring device 11 may dim the notification button 710a for calling out to customers, making it impossible to press, or it may display an error message when pressed.

[0199] Furthermore, the monitoring device 11 may be configured to allow pressing of a notification button 710a corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a. For example, even if no fraudulent activity is observed by a customer making a face-to-face payment from the perspective of a store employee stationed at the registered POS terminal device 20a, it is possible that fraudulent activity may be observed by a store employee stationed at the monitoring device 11 from the perspective of a store employee making a face-to-face payment. In this case, in order to inform the store employee stationed at the registered POS terminal device 20a, the monitoring device 11 may be configured to notify only the store employee-side display unit 210 of the registered POS terminal device 20a when the notification button 710a corresponding to the registered POS terminal device 20a is pressed. In other words, the customer-side display unit 205 may not be notified of this fact.

[0200] Furthermore, in the semi-self-service configuration, the monitoring device 11 is not limited to not displaying the voice notification button 710a on the monitoring screen 700 (see Figure 7), but may also not display the registered POS terminal device 20a or dim the display.

[0201] Furthermore, while the registered POS terminal device 20a (POS terminal device 20 in normal mode) is hidden or dimmed, the POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode, the payment POS terminal device 20b, and the payment-only POS terminal device 20 in the shopping system of Modification 3 may be displayed on a single screen as monitored devices. The monitoring device 11 may also use buttons or tabs to display the POS terminal devices 20 for each controlled mode.

[0202] The following is a summary of the embodiments. [Technical Field] Product sales data processing system, employee equipment, customer equipment, notification method, and program The present invention relates to a product sales data processing system, a device for store employees, a device for customers, a notification method, and a program. [Background technology] Traditionally, supermarkets and other stores have widely adopted POS (Point of Sales) registers, which allow customers to self-checkout without the assistance of store staff. However, because customers operate the POS registers themselves, there is a risk of customer fraud or customers being unable to operate them efficiently. Therefore, self-checkout systems are known in which an attendant terminal displays the operating status and error status of the self-checkout terminal (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). [Prior art document] [Patent] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-95026 [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] However, with self-checkout machines, even if there are suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the machine, if no error is detected, store employees may hesitate to speak to the customer because they have no reason to approach them. This has led to a problem where new or shy employees may not be able to provide appropriate support to customers. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can help store employees provide appropriate support to customers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0203] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a product sales data processing system according to one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing system that includes a customer device on which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, wherein the store clerk device is capable of receiving input from a store clerk for the customer device to notify of an error, and the customer device makes the notification when the store clerk device receives the input. According to the above configuration, customer devices can appear to be in an error state even when they are not. This allows staff to prompt customers to call for assistance or to approach suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the device, thus creating an opportunity for staff to speak to customers. Therefore, it can help new or shy staff members provide appropriate support to customers.

[0204] (2) In the configuration of (1) above, the store clerk device may be a monitoring device that monitors the customer device. With the above configuration, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system, the store clerk monitoring with the monitoring device 11 can create an opportunity to speak to the customer. Therefore, even new or shy store clerks can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers in a fully self-service environment.

[0205] (3) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the store clerk device may be a device on which the store clerk registers products. According to the above configuration, if there is a suspicious customer or a customer who is having trouble operating the system, the store clerk registering the product can create an opportunity to talk to the customer. Therefore, even new or shy store clerks can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers in a semi-self-service environment.

[0206] (4) In the configuration of (3) above, the store clerk device may operate in one of several operating modes, including at least one operating mode in which the store clerk registers the products, and may be able to accept the input depending on the operating mode in which it is operating. According to the above configuration, the POS terminal 20 can accept notification input (voice notification button) when in normal mode, but not when in checkout-only mode or full self-service mode. Therefore, since notification input can be accepted according to the operating mode of the POS terminal 20 when a store employee is stationed there, it is possible to support the store employee in providing appropriate support to customers in a semi-self-service setting.

[0207] (5) In any of the configurations described in (1) to (4) above, the customer device may be configured to operate in any of a plurality of operating modes, including an operating mode in which the customer pays for the goods. According to the above configuration, self-checkout machines can provide verbal alerts. This creates an opportunity for store employees to speak to suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the machine. Therefore, even new or shy employees can be helped to provide appropriate support to customers at self-checkout machines.

[0208] (6) In any of the configurations described in (1) to (5) above, the customer device may store a storage means for storing an urgency level indicating whether or not the error is approaching an error notification threshold for each type of error, and the customer device may provide notification for the type of error selected based on the urgency level stored in the storage means. According to the above configuration, it is possible to make it appear as if an error has occurred for error types that are likely to result in an error soon, serving as a trigger for store staff to speak to customers. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such errors while supporting appropriate support to customers.

[0209] (7) In any of the configurations described in (1) to (6) above, the store clerk device may be configured to accept input from the store clerk depending on whether the customer device is in an error state or a non-error state. With the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the press of the voice notification button 710a from being accepted when an error state is in place. Therefore, it is possible to prevent store employees from performing unnecessary operations.

[0210] (8) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another embodiment of the present invention is a store clerk device, which is a product sales data processing system comprising a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, wherein the store clerk device is capable of receiving input from a store clerk for notification of errors in the customer device, and when such input is received from a store clerk, it transmits an instruction to the customer device for the notification. According to the above configuration, customer devices can appear to be in an error state even when they are not. This allows staff to prompt customers to call for assistance or to approach suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the device, thus creating an opportunity for staff to speak to customers. Therefore, it can help new or shy staff members provide appropriate support to customers.

[0211] (9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a customer device for a product sales data processing system which includes a customer device for which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, wherein the customer device for the store clerk device makes a notification when the store clerk device receives input from the store clerk for making an error notification in the customer device. According to the above configuration, customer devices can appear to be in an error state even when they are not. This allows staff to prompt customers to call for assistance or to approach suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the device, thus creating an opportunity for staff to speak to customers. Therefore, it can help new or shy staff members provide appropriate support to customers.

[0212] (10) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a notification method, which is characterized in that a computer used in a customer device of a product sales data processing system, which includes a customer device on which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, performs a process to enable the customer device to receive input from a store clerk for providing notification about an error, and the computer used in the customer device performs a process to provide the notification when the store clerk device receives the input. According to the above configuration, customer devices can appear to be in an error state even when they are not. This allows staff to prompt customers to call for assistance or to approach suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the device, thus creating an opportunity for staff to speak to customers. Therefore, it can help new or shy staff members provide appropriate support to customers.

[0213] (11) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program which causes a computer used in a customer device of a product sales data processing system, which includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product settlement is performed by the customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, to execute a process that enables the customer device to receive input from a store clerk for the purpose of notifying the customer of an error, and causes the computer used in the customer device to execute a process that enables the store clerk device to make the notification when it receives the input. According to the above configuration, customer devices can appear to be in an error state even when they are not. This allows staff to prompt customers to call for assistance or to approach suspicious customers or customers who are having trouble operating the device, thus creating an opportunity for staff to speak to customers. Therefore, it can help new or shy staff members provide appropriate support to customers.

[0214] Furthermore, all or part of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including decision-making)) of each of the devices described above (monitoring device 11, POS terminal device 20, etc.) may be implemented in a device other than the one described as the entity that executes the function.

[0215] For example, instead of the POS terminal device 20, the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may store the urgency level table 1500. Alternatively, instead of the monitoring device 11 or the POS terminal device 20, the system may perform the processing that these devices would normally perform (see, for example, Figure 6).

[0216] Furthermore, while the above description described a configuration in which the staff device includes a reception unit and the customer device includes a mode control unit and a notification 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 that provide these functional units are not limited to multiple units, but may be just one unit. For example, all of these functional units may be provided in a single computer device.

[0217] In relation to the above, the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 may function as so-called thin clients specializing in the input / output interface portion for error notification. That is, the monitoring device 11 and the POS terminal device 20 may receive various inputs (operation by the operator, detection by a device such as a scanner), send the input information (operation information, scan information, etc.) to the cloud server, receive the processing results of the cloud server based on the input information (updated screen information, device control information, etc.), and perform various outputs (display on the display unit, device control).

[0218] Furthermore, the programs for implementing the POS system 1, monitoring device 11, POS terminal device 20, cloud server, shopping system, etc., as described above, may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the programs 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]

[0219] 1…POS system 10…Store Controller 11...Monitoring device 20…POS terminal device 201, 301…CPU 202, 302…ROM 203, 303... RAM 204, 304… Hard disk 205…Customer side display section 206...Customer-side scanner unit 208...Card Payment Department 209... Change machine 210…Staff side display section 211...Key operation section 212...Scanner section on the staff side 213…Printing Department 214...Audio output section 215... Communications Department 216... Camera 305...Display section 306...Audio output section 307... Communications Department

Claims

1. In a product sales data processing system including a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product payment is performed by the customer, and a store employee device operated by a store employee, The aforementioned employee device displays identification information for identifying the customer device, information indicating the status of the customer device, history information indicating the history of a series of operations on the customer device, and a predetermined operator on a single screen. The customer device temporarily stops accepting operation input from the customer when the employee device receives an operation from the predetermined operator. A product sales data processing system characterized by the following features.

2. The store clerk device of a product sales data processing system includes a customer device in which at least one of product registration and product payment is performed by the customer, and a store clerk device operated by a store clerk, Identification information for identifying the customer device, information indicating the status of the customer device, history information indicating the history of a series of operations on the customer device, and a predetermined operator are displayed on a single screen. When the store clerk receives an operation of the predetermined control element, an instruction is sent to the customer device to temporarily suspend the acceptance of operation input from the customer. A device for store clerks characterized by the following features.

3. A program for causing a first computer to function as a customer-facing device in which at least one of product registration or product payment is performed by the customer, and a second computer to function as an employee-facing device operated by an employee, The second computer, The following are displayed on a single screen: identification information for identifying the customer device, information indicating the status of the customer device, history information indicating the history of a series of operations on the customer device, and a predetermined operator. Execute the process, The first computer, When the aforementioned store clerk device receives an operation from the predetermined operator, it temporarily suspends accepting operation input from the customer. A program characterized by executing a process.

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