Sales data processing device and program

The dual-display sales data processing device addresses the issue of simultaneous customer transactions by enabling next-customer registration and current-customer settlement, improving transaction efficiency and customer experience.

JP2026112583APending Publication Date: 2026-07-07TERAOKA SEIKO CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
TERAOKA SEIKO CO LTD
Filing Date
2024-12-25
Publication Date
2026-07-07

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing sales data processing systems, customers may not be able to grasp transaction details during simultaneous transactions, leading to improper handling of current and next customers' purchases.

Method used

A sales data processing device with dual display areas allows registering products for the next customer before completing the transaction with the current customer, switching transaction information between display areas to facilitate seamless handling of both customers' transactions.

Benefits of technology

Enables efficient and appropriate transaction processing by allowing the next customer to view registration details while the current customer settles, enhancing overall transaction efficiency and customer experience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To support appropriate transactions. [Solution] The sales data processing device displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer. The sales data processing device comprises a registration means and a display control means. The registration means performs product registration. The display control means displays first transaction information, including the current customer's product registered by the registration means, in the first display area. The registration means can register the next customer's product before the transaction with the current customer is completed. When the next customer's product is registered by the registration means, the display control means switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first display area to the second display area. The display control means displays second transaction information, including the next customer's product registered by the registration means, in the first display area.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sales data processing device and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, face-to-face sales data processing devices (cash registers) that register products by the operation of store clerks and perform settlement by the operation of customers have become widespread (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Some such sales data processing devices can register products for the next customer while the current customer is settling.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art, there is a problem that the current customer and the next customer may not be able to grasp the transaction details, and the transaction may not be carried out appropriately.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and its object is to provide a technology that can support appropriate transactions.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a sales data processing device according to one aspect of the present invention is a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, comprising: a registration means for registering products; and a display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area, wherein the registration means can register products for the next customer before the transaction with the current customer is completed, and the display control means, when the registration means registers products for the next customer, switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first display area to the second display area, and displays the second transaction information, including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, comprising: a registration means for registering products; a display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area; and a settlement means for settling the products registered by the registration means, wherein the registration means can register products for the next customer before the transaction with the current customer is completed, the display control means displays second transaction information, including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means, in the second display area, and after the settlement of the products of the current customer is completed by the settlement means, the display destination of the second transaction information is switched from the second display area to the first display area.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, wherein the computer functions as a registration means for registering products, and a display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area, wherein the registration means can register products for the next customer before the transaction with the current customer is completed, and the display control means, when the registration means registers products for the next customer, switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first display area to the second display area, and displays the second transaction information, including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area.

[0009] To solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, wherein the computer functions as a registration means for registering products, a display control means for displaying first transaction information including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means in the first display area, and a settlement means for settling the products registered by the registration means, wherein the display control means displays second transaction information including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means in the second display area, and after the settlement of the products of the current customer is completed by the settlement means, the display destination of the second transaction information is switched from the second display area to the first display area. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the network configuration of the sales data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of a registration and settlement device. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the arrangement of each component of the registration and settlement device 20 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a registration and settlement device. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of customer movement in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a screen displayed on the staff member's display unit. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the screens displayed on the first and second customer-side display units. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the registration and settlement process performed by the registration and settlement device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of the registration details change process performed by the registration and settlement device. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the arrangement of each component of the registration and settlement device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of customer movement in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the screens displayed on the first and second customer-side display units. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows an example of the registration and settlement process performed by the registration and settlement device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] This flowchart shows an example of the registration and settlement process performed by the registration and settlement device according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (First Embodiment) (Network configuration of sales data processing system St) Figure 1 shows an example of the network configuration of the sales data processing system St according to the first embodiment. The sales data processing system St is installed in various types of stores. These stores include, for example, retail stores and restaurants. Retail stores include, for example, supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, discount stores, department stores, and general merchandise stores. Restaurants include fast food restaurants, restaurants, bars, cafes, diners, and food courts.

[0012] The sales data processing system St shown in FIG. 1 includes a store controller 10, a transaction status management device 11, and a registration settlement device 20. Each device is communicably connected via a LAN 55. Each device is a computer device provided with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a communication section, and the like.

[0013] The store controller 10 stores various types of information necessary for transactions. The various types of information include a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, and selling price for each product. Also, the product master includes product identification information, product name, unit price of the product subject to measurement, etc. for products that require measurement (products subject to measurement). Further, in addition to the product master, the store controller 10 stores various types of information such as inventory status, sales history, and deposit and withdrawal records. Also, the store controller 10 may store information regarding special sales and member information.

[0014] The transaction status management device 11 displays the processing status, etc. of the registration settlement device 20 and controls the registration settlement device 20. For example, a store employee (monitoring store employee) is arranged at the transaction status management device 11, and the monitoring store employee monitors the registration settlement device 20. The status of each of the plurality of registration settlement devices 20 is displayed on the transaction status management device 11. Specifically, the transaction status management device 11 displays a split screen indicating each registration settlement device 20 and displays the status of each registration settlement device 20. The monitoring store employee supports a customer operating the registration settlement device 20 and checks the age of the customer when an age-verification product such as alcohol is registered in the registration settlement device 20.

[0015] The registration and settlement device 20 (20-1 to 20-n (n≥1)) is an example of a sales data processing device. The registration and settlement device 20 is a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal device capable of registering and settling goods by the operation of a store clerk or a customer. The registration and settlement device 20 executes a registration process for registering goods and a settlement process. In the registration process, registration data of goods purchased by a customer is generated. In the settlement process, settlement is performed in a predetermined settlement type based on the registration data generated in the registration process. In FIG. 1, the number of the registration and settlement devices 20 is shown as a plurality of units (n units), but it may also be one unit.

[0016] The registration and settlement device 20 can switch its operation mode. The operation mode referred to here includes (A) full self-service mode, (B) clerk registration mode, and (C) accounting dedicated mode. Each operation mode will be described below. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the registration and settlement device 20 operates in (B) clerk registration mode.

[0017] (A) The full self-service mode is an operation mode in which a customer registers (self-registers) goods on the device itself and the customer performs settlement (self-settlement) on the device itself. (B) The clerk registration mode is an operation mode in which a store clerk registers goods and performs face-to-face settlement. Face-to-face settlement is settlement performed on the device itself when a customer faces a store clerk and is based on the customer's operation. The registration and settlement device 20 can also be provided with a cash dispenser on the store clerk side. In such a case, in the clerk registration mode, instead of or in addition to face-to-face settlement, a store clerk may receive cash or the like from a customer and perform settlement as the settlement performed by the store clerk. Further, the sales data processing system St may be provided with a registration-only device (registration-only device) whose operation mode cannot be switched instead of the registration and settlement device 20 in the clerk registration mode.

[0018] (C) The dedicated checkout mode is a mode in which the registered data registered by the checkout device 20 in the employee registration mode is acquired and self-checkout is performed. Specifically, the checkout device 20 in the employee registration mode outputs the registered data. Outputting the registered data is done by sending the registered data to the checkout device 20 in the dedicated checkout mode, but the registered data may also be coded and displayed on a display medium. The display medium may be, for example, paper or an electronic medium such as a smartphone. The checkout device 20 in the dedicated checkout mode acquires the registered data by receiving the registered data or by reading the coded registered data. The sales data processing system St may also be equipped with a checkout-only device (checkout-only device) that does not allow switching of operating modes, instead of the checkout device 20 in the dedicated checkout mode.

[0019] The sales data processing system St may include an employee terminal carried by the employee. The employee terminal may, for example, be capable of displaying a screen similar to that of the transaction status management device 11. The employee terminal may also notify the employee when a customer calls for assistance from the registration and settlement device 20, or when fraudulent activity by a customer is detected by the registration and settlement device 20.

[0020] (Example configuration of the registration and settlement device 20) Next, the configuration of the registration and settlement device 20 will be described. Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the registration and settlement device 20. The registration and settlement device 20 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a hard disk 204, a first customer-side display unit 205a, a second customer-side display unit 205b, a customer-side scanner unit 206, a payment terminal 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, a camera 216, and a signpost 220. Each unit is connected to the others via a bus so that they can communicate with each other.

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

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

[0023] The hard disk 204 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 204 stores (records) the imaging results (e.g., video) captured by the camera 216. The hard disk 204 may store various programs executed by the CPU 201 instead of the ROM 202. Alternatively, the hard disk 204 may store information acquired from external sources or information generated during processing instead of the RAM 203.

[0024] The first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b are touch displays for customers. The first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b display various information related to registration and payment to the customer, and also accept various inputs from the customer related to registration and payment. For example, the first customer-side display unit 205a displays a list of products registered by the store clerk. In addition, during payment, the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b display multiple payment type selection buttons corresponding to multiple payment types, and accept the selection of one button (one payment type) from among the multiple payment type selection buttons.

[0025] The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers. Specifically, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is equipped with an imaging unit. The imaging unit is an image sensor having an image element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). The imaging unit reads (images) the product. When an operator holds a product over the customer-side scanner unit 206, the imaging unit images the product. The imaging unit optically images the symbol code (barcode, 2D code, etc.) held over the imaging window, or the whole or a part of the product (object). The registration and payment device 20 can detect the presence or absence of a customer opposite it based on the imaging results of the customer-side scanner unit 206.

[0026] Symbol codes include product codes, payment codes, employee codes, membership codes, and coupon codes. Product codes are symbol codes attached to products, such as JAN codes, PLU (Price Look Up) codes, and in-store codes. Payment codes are symbol codes displayed on mobile terminals for code payments and include customer identification information. Employee codes are symbol codes attached to employee name tags and include employee identification information. Membership codes are symbol codes attached to membership cards and include member identification information. Coupon codes are symbol codes displayed on paper documents or mobile terminals and include the content of the coupon.

[0027] The customer-side scanner unit 206 reads the product code, and the registration and payment device 20 registers the product. The reading method used by the customer-side scanner unit 206 is not limited to CCD or CMOS; laser or pen-based methods are also possible.

[0028] In addition to the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the employee-side scanner unit 212, the registration and payment device 20 also includes a handheld scanner. The handheld scanner is used when registering large items (for example, purchases in boxes or purchases of rice). The handheld scanner becomes available for use when a predetermined button is pressed to indicate its use.

[0029] The payment terminal 208 processes payments based on information stored in various media such as various cards and mobile devices. These various cards include credit cards, prepaid cards such as electronic money, and membership cards (point cards). Electronic money is charged to charging media such as transportation IC cards and mobile devices. Charging to charging media may be done by depositing cash at a designated charging terminal, or, if the charging media is associated with a credit card, by depositing from the credit card.

[0030] The change dispenser 209 is a cash payment mechanism. The change dispenser 209 has an input slot facing the customer and accepts various operations and cash insertions from the customer. The change dispenser 209 stores the cash inserted into the input slot in a designated storage location. The change dispenser 209 also has a discharge slot, calculates the amount inserted into the input slot, calculates the change amount which is the difference between the inserted amount and the purchase amount, and discharges the change from the discharge slot. In addition to being installed on the customer side, the change dispenser 209 may also be installed on the employee side. In this case, the change dispenser 209 may accept various operations and cash insertions from the employee.

[0031] 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 corresponding to products, and when an employee operates one of these preset keys, the product is registered.

[0032] The key operation unit 211 is located on the employee's side and is equipped with various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 receives various inputs from the employee. The key operation unit 211 is equipped with a registration button corresponding to a product, and when the employee operates this registration button, the product is registered.

[0033] The employee-side scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for employees. Specifically, the employee-side scanner unit 212 includes an imaging unit. The imaging unit is an image sensor having an image element such as a CCD or CMOS. The imaging unit reads (images) products. When an employee holds a product over the employee-side scanner unit 212, the imaging unit images the product. The imaging unit optically images various symbol codes (barcodes, 2D codes, etc.) held over the imaging window, or the whole or a part (object) of the product. Note that the reading method by the employee-side scanner unit 212 is not limited to CCD or CMOS; it can also be a laser method or a pen method.

[0034] The registration and settlement device 20 performs processing based on the code read by the customer-side scanner unit 206 or the store clerk-side scanner unit 212. Specifically, the registration and settlement device 20 accepts input of the type of symbol code to be read (product code, payment code, store clerk code, member code, etc.) in advance, and performs various processing, including error detection, by checking the values ​​of flags etc. indicated by predetermined digits in the read symbol code, the number of digits read, etc. For example, when the registration and settlement device 20 reads a product code, it performs product registration processing. Also, when the registration and settlement device 20 reads a payment code, it queries a predetermined server (code payment server) for the remaining balance etc. based on the payment code and performs code payment. Also, when the registration and settlement device 20 reads a store clerk code, it performs login processing. Also, when the registration and settlement device 20 reads a member code, it performs processing to acquire member information and member points.

[0035] The printing unit 213 prints and outputs various media (receipts, invoices, etc.). The printing unit 213 may be equipped with a rotatable mechanism. In this case, the media output slot is configured to face from the employee side to the customer side, and vice versa.

[0036] The audio output unit 214 outputs sound. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs reading sounds (scanning sounds) when various codes are scanned, sounds indicating registered products (registered data), various voice guidance, and warning sounds. These sounds are related to product registration and settlement.

[0037] The communication unit 215 is an interface for sending and receiving information with other devices (such as the store controller 10 and the transaction status management device 11).

[0038] Camera 216 is mounted above the first customer-side display unit 205a. Camera 216 is a camera that continuously captures video or still images. Camera 216 can be a CCD camera or a CMOS camera. Camera 216 captures the presence of the customer involved in the transaction, as well as the customer's registration and settlement operations. Camera 216 also captures images of the goods being registered and the banknotes being inserted.

[0039] The sign pole 220 is equipped with, for example, a light-emitting part (e.g., an LED (light-emitting diode)) and can be lit in a predetermined lighting pattern. The lighting pattern includes a color pattern and a flashing pattern. The sign pole 220 can provide various notifications depending on the lighting pattern. These notifications include, for example, notifications indicating the status such as "in use," notifications to call a staff member, and notifications that a customer has committed fraudulent activity.

[0040] (Regarding next-customer registration) As described above, the registration and settlement device 20 according to this embodiment operates in employee registration mode. The registration and settlement device 20 can register the next customer's products before the transaction with the current customer is completed. Specifically, the registration and settlement device 20 can start registering the next customer's products while the current customer's transaction is being settled. In the following, the registration of the next customer's products may be referred to as "next customer registration".

[0041] Here, if the customer-side display unit 205 (first customer-side display unit 205a and second customer-side display unit 205b) located on the customer side is used for the current customer's settlement, the next customer will not be able to grasp the details of the product registration (product name, selling price, discount applied, quantity, etc.) until the current customer's settlement is completed. On the other hand, if the customer-side display unit 205 is used for registering the next customer, the current customer will not be able to grasp the settlement details. Thus, when registering the next customer, there is a problem that neither the current customer nor the next customer may be able to grasp the transaction details, and transactions may not be able to be carried out properly.

[0042] Therefore, this embodiment is designed to support appropriate transactions. Below, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, an example of the arrangement of each component of the registration and settlement device 20 according to this embodiment, and an example of customer flow will be described.

[0043] (Example of the arrangement of each component of the registration and settlement device 20 according to the first embodiment) Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of each component of the registration and settlement device 20 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the registration and settlement device 20 comprises, as viewed from the customer side, a main body 300 (including the change dispenser 209), a first customer-side display unit 205a, a second customer-side display unit 205b, a customer-side scanner unit 206, a payment terminal 208, a printing unit 213, and a change dispenser 209.

[0044] The first customer-side display unit 205a is an example of a first display area and is the main display. The second customer-side display unit 205b is an example of a second display area and is the sub-display. For example, the first customer-side display unit 205a has a larger display area than the second customer-side display unit 205b. The first customer-side display unit 205a is positioned above the main unit 300. The first customer-side display unit 205a may be positioned on the front or back side so as to overlap the main unit 300 when viewed from the customer's side. The second customer-side display unit 205b is positioned downstream of the first customer-side display unit 205a in the customer movement path 310 that indicates the direction of customer movement.

[0045] The customer-side scanner unit 206, the payment terminal 208, and the printing unit 213 are positioned close to the second customer-side display unit 205b. The printing unit 213 is positioned above the second customer-side display unit 205b. The top surface of the printing unit 213 is provided with an output slot for printing media (receipts, etc.). This makes it easy for both the store clerk and the customer to access the printing media, allowing the customer or clerk to easily receive the printing media at the time of payment.

[0046] Furthermore, the payment terminal 208 is positioned below the second customer-side display unit 205b. The payment terminal 208 is used for credit card payments and electronic money payments. Below the payment terminal 208, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is positioned. The customer-side scanner unit 206 is used for reading member codes and payment codes in code payments. The relative positions of the payment terminal 208 and the customer-side scanner unit 206 may be rearranged depending on the frequency of use. For example, the more frequently used one can be placed above the other. This can improve customer usability.

[0047] Furthermore, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is not limited to being provided separately from the main unit 300, but may be built into the main unit 300. In this case, it is desirable that the customer-side scanner unit 206 be located on the downstream side of the main unit 300, from the viewpoint of being close to the second customer-side display unit 205b. Similarly, from the same viewpoint, it is desirable that the change dispenser 209 be located on the downstream side of the main unit 300.

[0048] The change dispenser 209 may be positioned above or below the main unit 300, or it may be built into the main unit 300. Preferably, the center of the change dispenser 209 is offset downstream of the center of the main unit 300 in the direction of the traffic flow 310. For example, the change dispenser 209 may be positioned downstream of the first customer-side display unit 205a and upstream of the second customer-side display unit 205b, or it may be positioned so that the center of the second customer-side display unit 205b and the center of the change dispenser 209 are approximately the same. By positioning the change dispenser 209 slightly downstream in this way, the current customer will move downstream when the next customer registers their items. This makes it easier for the next customer to check the registration screen, and the current customer can settle their payment at a position slightly downstream, thus facilitating a smooth transaction for both the current and next customers.

[0049] By arranging the system as described above, the current customer can efficiently settle their payment using the second customer-side display unit 205b, and the next customer can confirm the registered information using the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0050] (An example of the functional configuration of the registration and settlement device 20, and an example of customer operation) Next, with reference to Figures 4 and 5, an example of the functional configuration of the registration and settlement device 20 and an example of customer operation will be described. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the registration and settlement device 20. Figure 5 shows an example of customer movement in the first embodiment.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4, the registration and settlement device 20 comprises the following functional units: a registration unit 401, a declaration reception unit 402, a display control unit 403, and a settlement unit 404. Each functional unit is implemented by the CPU 201. That is, the CPU 201 implements each functional unit by executing the sales data processing program according to this embodiment.

[0052] The registration unit 401 registers products through the operation of a store employee. For example, the registration unit 401 registers a product when the product code is read by the store employee's scanner unit 212. In addition to reading the product code, the registration unit 401 also registers a product when a preset key (a button corresponding to a product) displayed on the store employee's display unit 210 is pressed.

[0053] (Current customer 510 registers products, and next customer 520 waits) As shown in Figure 5(A), first, the current customer 510 registers their products using the first customer-side display unit 205a. That is, the first customer-side display unit 205a displays the registered products that the current customer 510 will purchase. Also, while the current customer 510 is registering their products, the next customer 520 waits until the current customer 510's product registration is complete. Completion of product registration is indicated by pressing the subtotal key.

[0054] To elaborate on the functional configuration, the registration unit 401 registers the products of the customer 510. The display control unit 403 displays the first transaction information, including the products of the customer 510 registered by the registration unit 401, on the first customer-side display unit 205a. The first transaction information includes all information related to the transaction with the customer 510. For example, the first transaction information includes the customer 510's membership information, settlement-related information related to the customer 510's settlement, and screen information for displaying these screens. Settlement-related information includes, for example, registration data (total amount, total number of items, product name, etc.), payment type, amount paid at settlement, and number of payments in the case of credit card payment.

[0055] (Settlement of current customer 510 and registration of products for next customer 520) As shown in Figure 5(B), once customer 510 has completed registering their items, they move to the second customer-side display unit 205b to complete the payment. The second customer-side display unit 205b displays the payment screen corresponding to the items registered by customer 510. When the employee-side display unit 210 receives a request from the employee to start the next customer registration, the next customer 520's items are registered using the first customer-side display unit 205a. That is, the first customer-side display unit 205a displays the registered items that the next customer 520 will purchase.

[0056] To elaborate on the functional configuration, the declaration reception unit 402 receives a declaration to start next customer registration. Specifically, when the product registration for the current customer 510 is completed, the declaration reception unit 402 activates an operator (next customer registration button 624 in Figure 6(B)) that accepts a declaration to start next customer registration. When this operator is pressed, the declaration reception unit 402 accepts a declaration to start next customer registration. This allows the registration unit 401 to register the products for the next customer 520 before the transaction with the current customer 510 is completed. The completion of the transaction with the current customer 510 means, for example, that the settlement of the current customer 510 is completed.

[0057] Furthermore, when the registration unit 401 registers the next customer, the display control unit 403 switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first customer-side display unit 205a to the second customer-side display unit 205b. Specifically, when next customer registration is started, the display control unit 403 erases the first transaction information from the first customer-side display unit 205a and displays the second transaction information on the first customer-side display unit 205a. The display control unit 403 then displays the first transaction information on the second customer-side display unit 205b. The second transaction information includes all information related to the transaction with the next customer 520. For example, the second transaction information includes the next customer 520's membership information, settlement-related information for the next customer 520's settlement, and screen information for displaying these screens.

[0058] The settlement unit 404 settles the goods of the customer 510 based on the settlement-related information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. Settlement includes processing related to the selection of payment type, processing related to various payment methods such as cash insertion / withdrawal and card reading, and processing related to receipt issuance.

[0059] As shown in Figure 5(C), the current customer 510 leaves once payment is complete. If the next customer has finished registering their items and there is yet another customer (the customer after the next), the next customer 520 moves to the second customer-side display unit 205b to make a payment. The second customer-side display unit 205b displays the payment screen corresponding to the items registered by the next customer 520. The next customer 520 leaves once payment is complete.

[0060] (If there are no next customers, number 520) If there is no next customer 520, the current customer 510 will make a payment using the first customer-side display unit 205a. Specifically, if the registration unit 401 does not register the next customer 520's items, the display control unit 403 will continue to display payment-related information on the first customer-side display unit 205a. Then, the payment unit 404 will make a payment for the current customer 510's items based on the payment-related information displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0061] (Prohibition of registering subsequent customers) Even if a next customer 520 appears after registration is completed on the first customer-side display unit 205a, if settlement has started on the first customer-side display unit 205a, the settlement of the current customer 510 will continue without registering the next customer, from the viewpoint of quickly completing the settlement of the current customer 510. Specifically, if settlement-related information (for example, a payment type selection screen) is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a, and settlement of the current customer 510 has started (for example, a payment type has been selected), the registration unit 401 will prohibit the registration of the next customer.

[0062] (Prohibition of registering the next customer when paying with cash) In the case of cash payment, selecting cash payment as the payment type puts the change dispenser 209 into a waiting state for deposits. Also, for example, if the registration and settlement device 20 is a cash-only device, the change dispenser 209 will enter a waiting state for deposits after the subtotal key is pressed. When cash is inserted into the change dispenser 209 in this waiting state, the registration unit 401 prohibits the registration of the next customer.

[0063] In the case of prohibiting the registration of the next customer, the registration unit 401 disables the operator that accepts the start of next customer registration. In this case, the display control unit 403 continues to display settlement-related information on the first customer-side display unit 205a. The settlement unit 404 then settles the payment for the current customer 510's items based on the settlement-related information displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0064] (Changes to the registration details of customer 510) The registration unit 401 allows the customer 510 to modify the registered information after completing product registration. Modifications to the registered information include changing the quantity, adding products, and deleting products. When the registered information is modified, the display control unit 403 displays the first transaction information on the first customer-side display unit 205a or the second customer-side display unit 205b. Specifically, if the display control unit 403 has switched the display destination of the first transaction information to the second customer-side display unit 205b, it displays the first transaction information related to the modification on the second customer-side display unit 205b. On the other hand, if the display control unit 403 is displaying the first transaction information on the first customer-side display unit 205a, it displays the first transaction information related to the modification on the first customer-side display unit 205a. This allows the customer 510 to confirm the modification of the registered information without having to move.

[0065] (Example of a screen displayed by the registration and settlement device 20) Next, using Figures 6 and 7, we will explain an example of the screens displayed on the staff-side display unit 210, the first customer-side display unit 205a, and the second customer-side display unit 205b. Figures 6 and 7 illustrate the screen transitions from product registration for the current customer 510 to the start of registration for the next customer. Also, the screens in Figures 6(A) to 6(C) correspond to the screens in Figures 7(A) to 7(C), respectively.

[0066] (Example of a screen displayed on the staff-side display unit 210) Figure 6 shows an example of a screen displayed on the employee-side display unit 210. Figure 6(A) shows the registration screen 610 for the current customer 510. The registration screen 610 includes the current customer tab TB1, the registered product display area 611, the registered product list area 612, the amount display area 613, the preset key 614, and the subtotal key 615. The current customer tab TB1 shows the transaction corresponding to current customer 510. The registered product display area 611 is the area that displays the most recently registered product. The registered product list area 612 is the area that displays a list of registered products. The amount display area 613 is the area that displays the total amount of the registered products. Preset key 614 includes keys corresponding to multiple products, and accepts registration of the product corresponding to the pressed key. Subtotal key 615 is a button that accepts completion of product registration. Subtotal key 615 is disabled if the customer before the current customer 510 is in the process of settling their bill. Disabling means making it impossible to press, for example, by hiding it or graying it out. When the subtotal key 615 is pressed, the system transitions to the subtotal plane 620 in Figure 6(B).

[0067] Figure 6(B) shows the subplan area 620. The subplan area 620 includes the payment type 621, the total amount 622, the amount to be paid 623, and the next customer registration button 624. The payment type 621 is displayed when the customer selects a payment type (e.g., cash payment) on the payment type selection screen displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a or the second customer-side display unit 205b. In other words, until a payment type is selected, the payment type 621 is not displayed, and for example, it will be blank. The total amount of 622 represents the total amount of items purchased by the current customer, 510. The deposit amount of 623 represents the deposit amount in cash payments. The next customer registration button 624 is an operator that accepts the start of next customer registration. The next customer registration button 624 becomes active (pressable) when the subtotal key 615 is pressed. When the next customer registration button 624 is pressed, the screen transitions to the next customer registration screen 630 shown in Figure 6(C).

[0068] Figure 6(C) shows the next customer registration screen 630. The next customer registration screen 630 includes the next customer tab TB2 in addition to the registration screen 610 shown in Figure 6(A). The next customer tab TB2 shows the transaction corresponding to next customer 520. The current customer tab TB1 and the next customer tab TB2 are selectable and become active when selected. In the illustration, the next customer tab TB2 is actively displayed. That is, the next customer registration screen 630 shows the transaction for next customer 520.

[0069] (Changes to the registration details of customer 510) When the current customer tab TB1 is pressed, the registration details of the current customer 510 are displayed, and it becomes possible to change the registration details of the current customer 510. Specifically, when the current customer tab TB1 is pressed, the second customer-side display unit 205b displays the registration details of the current customer 510 (registration screen 710 in Figure 7(A)) from the settlement screen, and it becomes possible to change the registration details. The settlement of the current customer 510 is interrupted. Also, since the registration settlement device 20 is set not to process transactions (registration processes) with multiple customers in parallel at the same time, the product registration for the next customer 520 is also interrupted.

[0070] When the changes to the registration details for the current customer 510 are completed and the next customer tab TB2 is pressed, product registration for the next customer 520 will resume, and the settlement for the current customer 510 will also resume. Changes to the registration details for the current customer 510 are possible until the payment type is selected. Therefore, the settlement will resume from the beginning (selection of payment type). Alternatively, changes to the registration details may be allowed after the payment type has been selected but before the settlement process (cash insertion or credit card reading) has begun. In this configuration, if the settlement is interrupted after the payment type has been selected but before the settlement process has started, it may be possible to resume from the state where the payment type has been selected. If the settlement process for the current customer 510 has already started (for example, if cash has been inserted or a credit card has been read), it may be possible to prevent changes to the registration details for the current customer 510.

[0071] Furthermore, changes to the registration details of customer 510 are not limited to being triggered by pressing the customer tab TB1; they may also be triggered by pressing a designated button (change button) that accepts such changes.

[0072] (Changing registration details when the next customer has not been registered) If the next customer has not been registered, i.e., if the next customer tab TB2 is not displayed, the settlement of the current customer 510 will be performed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. In this case, if the registration details of the current customer 510 are to be changed, pressing a predetermined button (for example, the payment cancellation button) displayed on the staff-side display unit 210 will cause the staff-side display unit 210 and the first customer-side display unit 205a to return to the registration screens 610 and 710, respectively.

[0073] (Example of a screen displayed to the customer) Figure 7 shows examples of screens displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b. The screens shown in Figures 7(A) and 7(B) are displayed when the registration screen 610 (Figure 6(A)) is displayed on the employee-side display unit 210.

[0074] Figure 7(A) shows the registration screen 710 displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a when a customer 510 registers a product. The registration screen 710 includes a registered product display area 711, a registered product list area 712, and a price display area 713. The registered product display area 711 is the area that displays the most recently registered product. The registered product list area 712 is the area that displays a list of registered products. The amount display area 713 is the area that displays the total amount of the registered products.

[0075] Figure 7(B) shows the advertising screen 720 displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b when a customer 510 registers an item. The advertisements displayed on the advertising screen 720 include, for example, special sale information for the current day or the next day. The advertisements may also include store campaigns or brands of cards that can be used for payment. The first customer-side display unit 205a may also display advertisements or "Welcome" when not in use (standby). When the subtotal key 615 is pressed on the registration screen 710 or the advertising screen 720, the screen transitions to the screens shown in Figures 7(C) and (D).

[0076] Figure 7(C) shows the payment type selection screen 730. The payment type selection screen 730 includes a payment type selection button 731. The payment type selection button 731 is an operator corresponding to the payment type (cash, credit card, electronic money, barcode payment, etc.) and accepts the customer's selection of one of the payment types. Figure 7(D) shows the advertisement screen 720 displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. The advertisement screen 720 is the same as the advertisement screen 720 in Figure 7(B). On the payment type selection screen 730 and the advertising screen 720, when the store clerk presses the next customer registration button 624 on the subplanning screen 620 (in Figure 6(B)), the screen transitions to the screens shown in Figures 7(E) and (F).

[0077] Figure 7(E) shows the notification screen 750. The notification screen 750 shows a notification that the second customer-side display unit 205b should be operated. After displaying the notification screen 750, the registration and payment device 20 transitions to the registration screen for the next customer 520. Figure 7(F) shows a payment type selection screen 760 with the same content as the payment type selection screen 730 in Figure 7(C). That is, when a new customer is registered, the display control unit 403 switches the display destination of the payment type selection screen 730 (an example of first transaction information) from the first customer-side display unit 205a to the second customer-side display unit 205b. The current customer 510 moves to the second customer-side display unit 205b to complete the payment.

[0078] The display layout (arrangement of buttons, etc.) of the payment type selection screen 730 in the second customer-side display unit 205b may be a scaled-down version of the display layout in the first customer-side display unit 205a, or it may be changed to a display layout that matches the screen size of the second customer-side display unit 205b. For example, if the second customer-side display unit 205b has a vertical configuration, the registration and settlement device 20 may change the display layout to one payment type selection button 731 from top to bottom, or it may change the display layout to one that allows the payment type selection button 731 to be selected by scrolling.

[0079] If the next customer is not registered, the payment type selection screen 730 will continue to be displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. In this case, the current customer 510 will make the payment on the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0080] (An example of the registration and settlement process performed by the registration and settlement device 20) Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the registration and settlement process performed by the registration and settlement device 20 according to the first embodiment. The following describes the process from the start of product registration for the customer 510 to the completion of settlement.

[0081] As shown in Figure 8, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether a transaction has commenced (step S801). A transaction commencement may be, for example, by scanning a product code, by pressing a button to accept the commencement of a transaction, or by the detection of a customer by the camera 216.

[0082] The registration and settlement device 20 waits until the transaction begins (step S801: NO). When the transaction begins (step S801: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether or not the product code has been scanned (step S802). If the product code has not been scanned (step S802: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S805. On the other hand, if the product code has been scanned (step S802: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 registers the product (step S803) and adds and displays the product on the first customer-side display unit 205a (registration screen 710 in Figure 7(A)) (step S804). At this time, the product is also added and displayed on the employee-side display unit 210 (registration screen 610 in Figure 6(A)).

[0083] The registration and payment device 20 then determines whether or not the previous customer is currently paying (step S805). If the previous customer is paying (step S805: YES), the registration and payment device 20 returns to step S802. On the other hand, if the previous customer is not paying (step S805: NO), the registration and payment device 20 activates the subtotal key 615 (Figure 6(A)) (step S806). Next, the registration and payment device 20 determines whether or not the subtotal key 615 has been pressed (step S807).

[0084] If the subtotal key 615 is not pressed (step S807: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 returns to step S802. On the other hand, if the subtotal key 615 is pressed (step S807: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 displays the payment type selection screen 730 (Figure 7(C)) on the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S808), and also displays (enables) the next customer registration button 624 (Figure 6(B)) on the staff-side display unit 210 (step S809).

[0085] Next, the registration and payment device 20 determines whether the next customer registration flag, which indicates that the next customer is being registered, is ON or OFF (step S810). The next customer flag is a status flag that indicates whether or not the next customer is being registered. To elaborate on the ON / OFF switching of the next customer flag, the next customer flag is set to ON when the next customer registration button 624 is pressed, and is set to OFF when the payment of the next customer 520 is completed. In this flowchart, it is sufficient to simply determine whether or not the next customer is being registered, so management using such a flag may be omitted.

[0086] If the next customer registration flag is ON (step S810: YES), the registration and payment device 20 proceeds to step S815. On the other hand, if the next customer registration flag is OFF (step S810: NO), the registration and payment device 20 determines whether or not the next customer registration button 624 has been pressed (step S811).

[0087] If the next customer registration button 624 is not pressed (step S811: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S815. On the other hand, if the next customer registration button 624 is pressed (step S811: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 turns on the next customer registration flag (step S812) and switches the display destination of the payment type selection screen 730 (an example of first transaction information) from the first customer side display unit 205a to the second customer side display unit 205b (step S813).

[0088] Then, the next customer tab TB2 (Figure 6(C)) is displayed on the employee-side display unit 210, and the registration screen for the next customer 520 is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a, and the next customer registration is started (step S814). Next, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether or not it has accepted the request to start changing the registration details of the current customer 510 by pressing the current customer tab TB1 (step S815). If the request to start changing the registration details of the current customer 510 is not accepted (step S815: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S817. On the other hand, if the request to start changing the registration details of the current customer 510 is accepted (step S815: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 performs the registration details change process (Figure 9) (step S816).

[0089] The registration and settlement device 20 then determines whether a payment type has been selected (step S817). If no payment type is selected (step S817: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 returns to step S810. On the other hand, if a payment type is selected (step S817: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 performs the payment using the selected payment type (step S818). The registration and settlement device 20 then issues a receipt (step S819) and terminates the series of processes. The registration and settlement device 20 turns OFF the next customer registration flag once the settlement of the next customer 520 is complete.

[0090] (An example of the registration content change process performed by the registration settlement device 20) Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the registration content change process performed by the registration and payment device 20. As shown in Figure 9, the registration and payment device 20 determines whether or not the current customer 510 is being paid for using the second customer-side display unit 205b (step S901). If the current customer 510 is being paid for using the second customer-side display unit 205b (step S901: YES), in other words, if the next customer is being registered (if the current customer 510 is being paid for using the second customer-side display unit 205b), the registration and payment device 20 displays the registration screen on the second customer-side display unit 205b (step S902).

[0091] On the other hand, if the current customer 510 is paying using the second customer-side display unit 205b (step S901: NO), that is, if the current customer 510 is paying using the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S901: YES), the registration screen is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S903). Next, the registration payment device 20 determines whether or not it has accepted a change in the registration details based on the store clerk's operation (step S904).

[0092] If the change in registration details is not accepted (step S904: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S906. On the other hand, if the change in registration details is accepted (step S904: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 changes the registration details (step S905). Then, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether the change in registration details has been completed (step S906). This completion is determined by accepting the press of a predetermined operator (registration completion button).

[0093] If the changes to the registration details are not complete (step S906: NO), the registration settlement device 20 returns to step S904. On the other hand, if the changes to the registration details are complete (step S906: YES), the registration settlement device 20 terminates the series of processes and proceeds to step S817 (Figure 8).

[0094] As described above, in this embodiment, when a new customer is registered, the registration and settlement device 20 switches the display destination of the first transaction information, including the registered products of the current customer 510, from the first customer-side display unit 205a to the second customer-side display unit 205b, and displays the second transaction information, including the registered products of the next customer 520, on the first customer-side display unit 205a. This allows the current customer 510 to perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the second customer-side display unit 205b, and the next customer 520 to conduct the transaction while checking the registered product displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. Therefore, in transactions with multiple customers, each customer can be made aware of the details of the transaction, thereby supporting appropriate transactions.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a new customer is registered, the registration and settlement device 20 switches the display destination of the settlement-related information of the current customer 510 from the first customer-side display unit 205a to the second customer-side display unit 205b, and performs settlement for the current customer 510 based on the settlement-related information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. As a result, the current customer 510 can perform the settlement while checking the settlement-related information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b, and the next customer 520 can perform the transaction while checking the registered products displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if no next customer is registered, the registration and settlement device 20 continues to display settlement-related information on the first customer-side display unit 205a, and settles the payment for the current customer 510's items based on the settlement-related information displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. As a result, if there is no next customer 520, the current customer 510 can complete the payment at the first customer-side display unit 205a without moving to the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the first customer-side display unit 205a is displaying payment-related information for the current customer 510, and payment for the current customer 510 is initiated, the registration of products for the next customer 520 is prohibited, and the payment-related information for the current customer 510 is continuously displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. As a result, if the payment process for the current customer 510 has already started on the first customer-side display unit 205a, the payment process can continue on the first customer-side display unit 205a, allowing for a quick completion of the payment.

[0098] Furthermore, in the case of a change in the registration details of a customer 510, if the registration settlement device 20 switches the display destination of the first transaction information to the second customer-side display unit 205b, it displays the first transaction information related to the change on the second customer-side display unit 205b. Also, in the case of a change in the registration details of a customer 510, if the registration settlement device 20 displays the first transaction information related to the change on the first customer-side display unit 205a, it displays the first transaction information related to the change on the first customer-side display unit 205a. This allows the customer-side display unit 205 used by the customer 510 to be used when changing registration details, so the customer can confirm the changes to their registration details without changing their gaze.

[0099] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, explanations of the contents described in the first embodiment described above will be omitted as appropriate. It is also possible to combine the configurations of the second embodiment and the first embodiment.

[0100] (Example of the arrangement of each component of the registration and settlement device 20 according to the second embodiment) Figure 10 shows an example of the arrangement of each component of the registration and settlement device 20 according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the positional relationship between the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b is different in the registration and settlement device 20 compared to the arrangement according to the first embodiment. Specifically, the second customer-side display unit 205b is positioned upstream of the first customer-side display unit 205a in the customer flow path 310.

[0101] The customer-side scanner unit 206, the payment terminal 208, and the printing unit 213 are positioned away from the second customer-side display unit 205b. Specifically, the customer-side scanner unit 206, the payment terminal 208, and the printing unit 213 are positioned downstream of the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0102] Furthermore, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is not limited to being provided separately from the main unit 300, but may also be built into the main unit 300. In this case, it is desirable that the customer-side scanner unit 206 be located on the downstream side of the main unit 300, from the viewpoint of being far from the second customer-side display unit 205b. Similarly, from the same viewpoint, it is desirable that the change dispenser 209 be located on the downstream side of the main unit 300. The change dispenser 209 may be located above or below the main unit 300, or it may be built into the main unit 300.

[0103] By arranging the system as described above, the next customer 520 can use the second customer-side display unit 205b to confirm the registered information, and the current customer 510 can use the first customer-side display unit 205a to efficiently complete the payment process.

[0104] Figure 11 shows an example of customer movement in the second embodiment.

[0105] (Current customer 510 registers products, and next customer 520 waits) As shown in Figure 11(A), first, the current customer 510 registers their items using the first customer-side display unit 205a. That is, the first customer-side display unit 205a displays the registered items that the current customer 510 will purchase. Also, while the current customer 510 is registering their items, the next customer 520 waits until the current customer 510's item registration is complete.

[0106] (Settlement of current customer 510 and registration of products for next customer 520) As shown in Figure 11(B), once customer 510 has completed product registration, customer 510 proceeds with payment at the first customer-side display unit 205a. When the start of next customer registration is received, the second customer-side display unit 205b is used to register the next customer 520's products. That is, the second customer-side display unit 205b displays the registered items of the products that the next customer 520 will purchase. To elaborate on the functional configuration, the display control unit 403 causes the second transaction information, including the products of the next customer 520 registered by the registration unit 401, to be displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0107] As shown in Figure 11(C), the current customer 510 leaves once payment is complete. When the next customer 520 completes product registration, the next customer 520 moves to the first customer-side display unit 205a to complete payment. The first customer-side display unit 205a displays the payment screen corresponding to the next customer 520's registered products. To elaborate on the functional configuration, after the settlement unit 404 completes the settlement of the customer's (510) goods, the display control unit 403 switches the display destination of the second transaction information from the second customer-side display unit 205b to the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0108] Customer 510 leaves once payment is complete. Customer 510's departure can be detected based on the image captured by camera 216 and the detection result of the human presence sensor. When customer 510 leaves, the display control unit 403 switches the display destination of the second transaction information to the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0109] (Example of a screen displayed to the customer) Figure 12 shows an example of the screens displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0110] Figure 12(A) shows the payment type selection screen 1210 that is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a when a customer 510 settles their payment. Figure 12(B) shows the registration screen 1220 for the next customer 520, which is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. Before the current customer 510 completes product registration, the advertisement screen 1240 (Figure 12(D)) is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. Once customer 510 has completed payment and left the first customer-side display unit 205a, the screen transitions to the screens shown in Figures 12(C) and (D).

[0111] Figure 12(C) shows the registration screen 1230 for the next customer 520, which is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. Figure 12(D) shows the advertisement screen 1240 displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. Note that even if there is a customer after the next customer 520 (the customer after the next), product registration for the customer after the next will not start because the product registration for the next customer 520 is not yet complete. In Figures 12(C) and (D), once the next customer registration is complete, the screen transitions to the one shown in Figures 12(E) and (F).

[0112] Figure 12(E) shows the payment type selection screen 1250 for the next customer 520, which is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. Figure 12(F) shows the advertisement screen 1240 displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. The advertisement screen 1240 is the same as the advertisement screen 1240 in Figure 12(D). In Figure 12(F), if there is a next-next customer, it is possible to accept a declaration to start registration for the next-next customer. In this case, the display control unit 403 displays the next-next customer registration screen on the second customer-side display unit 205b instead of the advertisement screen 1240.

[0113] (An example of the registration and settlement process performed by the registration and settlement device 20) Figures 13 and 14 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the registration and settlement process performed by the registration and settlement device 20 according to the second embodiment. The following describes the process from the start of product registration for the next customer 520 to the completion of settlement while the current customer 510 is being settled. In this flowchart, the current customer 510 is referred to as the "first customer," the next customer 520 as the "second customer," and the customer after that (the customer following the next customer 520) as the "third customer." The following flowchart also describes an example of what can be done on the second customer-side display unit 205b until the settlement type for the second customer is selected. In other words, the period during which the display destination of the second transaction information can be switched (switching from the second customer-side display unit 205b to the first customer-side display unit 205a) is defined as the period from the start of registration for the second customer to the start of settlement.

[0114] As shown in Figure 13, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether or not the transaction for the second customer has started (step S1301). The registration and settlement device 20 waits until the transaction for the second customer has started (step S1301: NO). When the transaction for the second customer has started (step S1301: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether or not the product code has been scanned (step S1302).

[0115] If the product code is not scanned (step S1302: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S1305. On the other hand, if the product code is scanned (step S1302: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 registers the product (step S1303) and adds and displays the product on the second customer-side display unit 205b (registration screen 1220 in Figure 12(B)) (step S1304).

[0116] The registration and settlement device 20 then determines whether the settlement of the current customer 510 has been completed and whether the first customer has left the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1305). If the first customer has not left the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1305: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S1307. On the other hand, if the first customer has left the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1305: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 switches the display destination of the registration screen 1220 (an example of second transaction information) in Figure 12(B) from the second customer-side display unit 205b to the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1306). As a result of this switch, the registration screen 1220 for the next customer 520 (Figure 12(B)) is cleared on the second customer-side display unit 205b, and the advertisement screen 1240 (Figure 12(D)) is displayed.

[0117] Next, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether or not the subtotal key 615 has been pressed (step S1307). If the subtotal key 615 has not been pressed (step S1307: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 returns to step S1302. On the other hand, if the subtotal key 615 has been pressed (step S1307: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether or not the switching of the display destination of the registration screen 1220 has been completed (step S1308).

[0118] If the switching of the display destination for the registration screen 1220 is not complete (step S1308: NO), that is, if the registration screen 1220 is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b, the registration and settlement device 20 displays the payment type selection screen on the second customer-side display unit 205b (step S1309) and proceeds to step S1317.

[0119] On the other hand, if the switching of the display destination of the registration screen 1220 has been completed (step S1308: YES), that is, if the registration screen 1230 (Figure 12(C)) was displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a, the registration and settlement device 20 displays the payment type selection screen on the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1310) and proceeds to step S1312.

[0120] Next, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether the switching of the display destination for the payment type selection screen has been completed (step S1311). If the switching of the display destination for the payment type selection screen has not been completed (step S1311: NO), that is, if the payment type selection screen is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b, the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S1317.

[0121] On the other hand, if the display destination of the payment type selection screen has been switched (step S1311: YES), that is, if the payment type selection screen 1250 (Figure 12(E)) is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether the next customer registration flag, which indicates that the third customer is being registered, is ON or OFF (step S1312). If the next customer registration flag is ON (step S1312: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S1317.

[0122] On the other hand, if the next customer registration flag is OFF (step S1312: NO), the registration and payment device 20 displays (enables) the next customer registration button 624 (Figure 6(B)) on the employee-side display unit 210 (step S1313). Next, the registration and payment device 20 determines whether or not the next customer registration button 624 has been pressed (step S1314). If the next customer registration button 624 has not been pressed (step S1314: NO), the registration and payment device 20 proceeds to step S1317.

[0123] On the other hand, if the next customer registration button 624 is pressed (step S1314: YES), the registration and payment device 20 turns on the next customer registration flag (step S1315). The registration and payment device 20 then displays a tab for the third customer (the customer after the next tab) on the staff-side display unit 210 and displays the registration screen for the third customer on the second customer-side display unit 205b, and starts registering the third customer (step S1316).

[0124] Next, the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether or not it has accepted the start of the change to the registration details of the second customer by pressing the next customer tab TB2 (the tab corresponding to the second customer) (step S1317). If the start of the change to the registration details of the second customer is not accepted (step S1317: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 proceeds to step S1319. On the other hand, if the start of the change to the registration details of the second customer is accepted (step S1317: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 performs the registration details change process (Figure 9) (step S1318).

[0125] The registration and settlement device 20 then determines whether a payment type has been selected (step S1319). If no payment type is selected (step S1319: NO), the registration and settlement device 20 returns to step S1311. On the other hand, if a payment type is selected (step S1319: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 determines whether the switching of the display destination for the payment type selection screen has been completed (step S1320).

[0126] If the display destination of the payment type selection screen has been switched (step S1320: YES), and the payment type selection screen 1250 (Figure 12(E)) is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a, the registered settlement device 20 displays a settlement screen corresponding to the payment type on the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1321), proceeds to step S1325, and performs the settlement.

[0127] On the other hand, if the display destination of the payment type selection screen has not been switched (step S1320:NO), that is, if the payment type selection screen is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b (step S1320:NO), the registration settlement device 20 displays a settlement screen corresponding to the payment type on the second customer-side display unit 205b (step S1322). The registration settlement device 20 then waits until the settlement of the current customer 510 is completed and the first customer leaves the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1323:NO).

[0128] When the first customer leaves the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1323: YES), the registration and settlement device 20 switches the display destination of the settlement screen (an example of second transaction information) from the second customer-side display unit 205b to the first customer-side display unit 205a (step S1324). As a result of this switch, the settlement screen is cleared from the second customer-side display unit 205b, and the advertisement screen 1240 (Figure 12(D)) is displayed. The registration and settlement device 20 then performs the settlement using the selected payment type (step S1325). The registration and settlement device 20 then issues a receipt (step S1326) and completes the series of processes. The registration and settlement device 20 turns OFF the next customer registration flag when the settlement of the third customer is completed.

[0129] This flowchart describes an example where the processing that the second customer can perform on the second customer-side display unit 205b is limited to selecting the payment type for the second customer. However, the flowchart is not limited to this example; the processing that the second customer can perform on the second customer-side display unit 205b may be limited to completing the second customer's product registration, with processing after the selection of the payment type being performed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. This prevents the display destination of the second transaction information from switching during product registration. Furthermore, the processing that the second customer can perform on the second customer-side display unit 205b may be limited to checking the electronic money balance, or to charging the electronic money.

[0130] As described above, the registration and settlement device 20 according to the second embodiment displays first transaction information, including the registered products of the current customer 510, on the first customer-side display unit 205a, and second transaction information, including the registered products of the next customer 520, on the second customer-side display unit 205b. After the settlement of the current customer 510 is completed, the registration and settlement device 20 switches the display destination of the second transaction information from the second customer-side display unit 205b to the first customer-side display unit 205a. This allows the current customer 510 to perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the first customer-side display unit 205a, and the next customer 520 to conduct the transaction while checking the registered product displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. Therefore, in transactions with multiple customers, each customer can be made aware of the details of the transaction, thereby supporting appropriate transactions.

[0131] Furthermore, in the case of a change in the registration details of the next customer 520, if the registration and settlement device 20 in this embodiment switches the display destination of the second transaction information to the first customer-side display unit 205a, it displays the second transaction information related to the change on the first customer-side display unit 205a. Also, in the case of a change in the registration details of the next customer 520, if the registration and settlement device 20 displays the second transaction information on the second customer-side display unit 205b, it displays the second transaction information related to the change on the second customer-side display unit 205b. This allows the customer to use the customer-side display unit used by the next customer 520 when changing registration details, so the customer can confirm the changes to their registration details without changing their gaze.

[0132] (Variations of each embodiment) Next, modifications of the first and second embodiments will be described. In the following modifications, explanations of the contents described in the above embodiments will be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine each of the following modifications and each of the components of each embodiment.

[0133] (Variation 1: Another example of accepting the declaration to start the next customer registration) First, let's describe Modification 1. In each of the embodiments described above, we explained an example in which the declaration to start next-customer registration is received by receiving the press of the subtotal key 615 (Figure 6(A)) and the next-customer registration button 624 (Figure 6(B)). Modification 1 will describe another example in which the declaration to start next-customer registration is received.

[0134] (Example with a button to register the next customer for a subtotal) For example, the registration and settlement device 20 displays a button on the registration screen 610 that has two functions: a subtotal key 615 and a next customer registration button 624 (hereinafter referred to as the "subtotal next customer registration button"). When the product registration is completed and the subtotal next customer registration button is pressed, the registration and settlement device 20 displays the next customer registration screen 630 (Figure 6(C)) without going through the subtotal screen 620 (Figure 6(B)). This allows both the subtotal and next customer registration to be accepted in a single operation. In the configuration of the second embodiment, the subtotal next customer registration button is enabled on the condition that the first customer has left the first customer side display unit 205a.

[0135] Furthermore, if a subtotal next customer registration button is provided, the screen switching on the customer side will also differ from the embodiments described above. Specifically, in the configuration of the first embodiment, when the registration screen 710 (Figure 7(A)) is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a, the subtotal next customer registration button is pressed by the store clerk. In this case, the registration and settlement device 20 displays the payment type selection screen 760 (Figure 7(F)) on the second customer-side display unit 205b without displaying the payment type selection screen 730 (Figure 7(C)) on the first customer-side display unit 205a. When a subtotal next customer registration button is provided, the current customer will always settle their payment on the second customer-side display unit 205b, regardless of whether a next customer has been registered or not.

[0136] Furthermore, in the configuration of the second embodiment, assume that the subtotal next customer registration button is pressed by the store clerk while the registration screen is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. In this case, the registration and settlement device 20 displays the payment type selection screen on the first customer-side display unit 205a without displaying the payment type selection screen on the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0137] This simplifies the operation involved in switching screens for the current customer (510), and allows the screen switch to occur at the start of the settlement process (the completion of registration). Therefore, since screen switches do not occur during product registration or settlement, it is possible to minimize customer confusion caused by screen switches.

[0138] (Example of displaying the next customer tab TB2 in advance on registration screen 610) Furthermore, if the next customer tab TB2 is pre-displayed on the registration screen 610 (Figure 6(A)), the registration and settlement device 20 may display the next customer registration screen 630 (Figure 6(C)) when the next customer tab TB2 is pressed after the subtotal key 615 is pressed. In this way, the declaration to start next customer registration can be accepted without going through the subtotal screen 620.

[0139] (An example of enabling next-customer registration even after selecting the payment method) Furthermore, the next customer registration button 624 (Figure 6(B)) may be enabled after the payment type has been selected. In this case, the payment type may be selected by the store clerk. Specifically, the store clerk inputs (selects) the payment type requested by the customer into the store clerk display unit 210. As a result, the registration and settlement device 20 enables the next customer registration button 624 on the store clerk display unit 210 and accepts the press of the next customer registration button 624 by the store clerk. At this time, the store clerk notifies the customer that the display screen will switch from the first customer display unit 205a to the second customer display unit 205b. In this way, next customer registration can be performed even after the payment type has been selected.

[0140] (Variation 2: Another example of the second customer's display unit 205b when the next customer has not been registered) Next, we will describe a modified example 2. In the embodiments described above, we described an example in which the advertisement screens 720 and 1240 are displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b when the next customer registration has not been performed. In modified example 2, we will describe an example in which the same screen as the first customer-side display unit 205a is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b when the next customer registration has not been performed.

[0141] The registration and settlement device 20 displays the first transaction information of the current customer 510 on the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b. In the configuration of the first embodiment, when the registration and settlement device 20 receives a declaration to start the registration of the next customer, the second customer-side display unit 205b continues to display the first transaction information (settlement screen), and the first customer-side display unit 205a displays the registration screen for the next customer 520. In the configuration of the second embodiment, when the registration and settlement device 20 receives a declaration to start the registration of the next customer, the first customer-side display unit 205a continues to display the first transaction information (settlement screen), and the second customer-side display unit 205b displays the registration screen for the next customer 520.

[0142] According to Modification 2, when the next customer registration is not performed, the first transaction information is displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b, making it easier for customers to understand the first transaction information and allowing for effective use of the customer-side display unit 205. Furthermore, once the next customer registration is initiated, each customer can be made aware of the transaction details, thus supporting appropriate transactions.

[0143] (Modification 3: An example that allows next-customer registration even after selecting the payment method.) Next, we will describe Modification 3. In the first embodiment described above, we described an example in which the registration of the next customer is prohibited when a payment type is selected in the first customer-side display unit 205a. In Modification 3, we will describe an example in which, even after a payment type has been selected in the first customer-side display unit 205a, the registration of the next customer is permitted if payment (for example, inserting cash) has not yet been started.

[0144] In Modification 3 of the First Embodiment, the registration and settlement device 20 enables the operator for accepting the start of next customer registration after the subtotal key 615 is pressed until settlement begins. Settlement begins with inserting cash for cash payments, touching or inserting a credit card or sliding the magnetic stripe for credit card payments, touching electronic money for electronic money payments, or scanning a settlement code for code payments. In other words, once cash is inserted or the process is completed, the operator for accepting the start of next customer registration becomes inactive. If the registration and settlement device 20 accepts next customer registration after the payment type has been selected on the first customer-side display unit 205a but before settlement begins, it should display the next customer registration screen on the first customer-side display unit 205a and display a settlement screen corresponding to the selected payment type on the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0145] According to Modification 3, it is possible to register the next customer even after selecting the payment method, allowing for more efficient transactions.

[0146] (Example of variation 4: Case where there is insufficient balance in electronic money payment) Next, we will explain Modification 4. Modification 4 describes the process when there is insufficient charge balance in electronic money payment at the second customer-side display unit 205b of the customer 510.

[0147] The registered payment device 20 completes electronic money payments if the charge balance is sufficient, that is, if the charge balance exceeds the total amount. On the other hand, if the charge balance is insufficient, that is, if the charge balance falls below the total amount, the electronic money payment cannot be completed. Since the payment on the first customer-side display unit 205a is performed when there is no next customer 520, if the charge balance is insufficient, it is possible to display a charge screen on the first customer-side display unit 205a under the operation of a store employee (or automatically) and have the current customer 510 charge their balance.

[0148] On the other hand, since payment at the second customer-side display unit 205b is performed when the next customer has been registered, if the charge balance is insufficient, the second customer-side display unit 205b automatically displays a charge screen and prompts the current customer 510 to charge. Furthermore, since the registration and settlement device 20 is set not to process transactions with multiple customers simultaneously, when the charge screen is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b, the transaction with the current customer 510 is resumed and the transaction (registration) with the next customer 520 is interrupted. Even if the store clerk scans the product code related to the next customer registration at the time of this interruption, the product will not be registered. For this reason, the registration and settlement device 20 notifies the store clerk of this interruption. This allows the store clerk to be aware that the interruption has occurred during next customer registration, and helps to prevent registration errors during next customer registration.

[0149] Once the charge for the current customer 510 is complete, the payment type selection screen is displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b, and the settlement process resumes. Alternatively, once the charge is complete, the system may transition to the electronic money payment settlement screen (the screen after electronic money payment is selected on the payment type selection screen) and resume the settlement process.

[0150] (Variation 5: Another example of when to switch the display destination of the second transaction information) Next, we will describe Modification 5. In the second embodiment described above, we described an example in which the timing for switching the display destination of the second transaction information to the first customer-side display unit 205a (hereinafter referred to as the "switching timing") is set to the timing when the customer 510 leaves. Modification 5 describes other examples of the switching timing.

[0151] (Switching by pressing a button) The switching timing may be, for example, the timing when a button for switching the display destination of the second transaction information (display switching button) is pressed. To elaborate, when the current customer 510 leaves, the display control unit 403 displays a display switching button on the employee-side display unit 210 or the second customer-side display unit 205b. When the display switching button is pressed, the display control unit 403 switches the display destination of the second transaction information to the first customer-side display unit 205a. This allows the operator (employee or next customer 520) to switch the display destination of the second transaction information at any time. In other words, it prevents the display destination of the second transaction information from switching unexpectedly for the next customer 520.

[0152] (Time when customer 510 has completed payment) Furthermore, the switching timing may be the time when the settlement of the current customer 510 is completed (for example, when the receipt is issued). Alternatively, the switching timing may be the time when the receipt is removed. In the case of cash payment, the switching timing may be the time when the change is removed. This allows for a rapid switch in the display destination of the second transaction information.

[0153] Furthermore, manual switching via button presses, compared to automatic switching of the display destination for the second transaction information (such as switching upon customer 510's departure or removal of the receipt), is performed under the operator's judgment, thus ensuring reliable screen switching. For this reason, it is preferable to switch screens manually via button presses.

[0154] (Variation 6: Permission mode that allows registration of the next customer) Next, we will describe Modification 6. In the embodiments described above, we described an example in which next customer registration is always possible. In Modification 6, we will describe an example in which next customer registration is made possible (or impossible) depending on the mode.

[0155] The registration and settlement device 20 according to Modification 6 is switchable between an authorized mode that allows registration of the next customer and an unauthorized mode that does not allow registration of the next customer. Each mode can be selected by the store clerk. The authorized mode may also be selectable according to the store clerk's rank. The store clerk's rank can be obtained from the store clerk's login information. For example, in the case of an experienced store clerk, the registration and settlement device 20 operates in authorized mode, enabling registration of the next customer. On the other hand, in the case of an inexperienced store clerk, the registration and settlement device 20 operates in unauthorized mode, making it impossible to register the next customer. This prevents operational errors and confusion that might occur if the store clerk were to attempt to register the next customer, as the inexperienced store clerk can only conduct transactions with the current customer 510.

[0156] Furthermore, the permission mode may be selectable according to the rank of the member customer. The rank of the member customer can be obtained from the membership card (member information). For example, in the case of elderly customers, screen changes may confuse them. Therefore, in the case of elderly customers, the registration and payment device 20 may operate in permission mode to prevent the registration of the next customer. Also, in the case of valuable customers who frequently use the store, the registration and payment device 20 may operate in permission mode to prevent the registration of the next customer. This makes it possible to avoid screen changes for valuable customers and to prevent the next customer 520 from approaching valuable customers, thus allowing valuable customers to be given preferential treatment.

[0157] (Modification 7: Control when registration data can be sent to the registration settlement device 20 in accounting-only mode) Next, we will describe Modification 7. Modification 7 describes the control when the registration and settlement device 20 in employee registration mode transmits registration data to the registration and settlement device 20 in payment-only mode (hereinafter referred to as "settlement machine").

[0158] In the employee registration mode, the registration and payment device 20 displays an operator on the employee-side display unit 210 that accepts the designation of the payment machine to which the registration data will be sent. In a configuration where such an operator (hereinafter referred to as the "machine designation button") is displayed, the registration and payment device 20 may disable the registration of the next customer. This prevents the current customer 510 and the next customer 520 from conducting transactions in close proximity, and allows each customer to complete their payment at the payment machine.

[0159] Furthermore, the registration and payment device 20 may enable next-customer registration when the payment machine is unavailable (for example, when the payment machine is powered off or there is a communication failure) or depending on the congestion level. If the machine number designation button includes a button to designate the device itself in addition to the button to designate the payment machine, the device may be configured to accept a declaration to start next-customer registration when the button to designate the device is pressed.

[0160] According to Modification 7, each customer can pay at the payment machine, and depending on the situation, the next customer can be registered. Therefore, transactions can be conducted more efficiently.

[0161] (Modification 8: Operation of the second passenger-side display unit 205b in full self-service mode, etc.) Next, we will describe Modification 8. Modification 8 describes the operation of the second customer-side display unit 205b in the accounting-only mode and the full self-service mode of the registration settlement device 20. Examples of information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b in the accounting-only mode and the full self-service mode are listed below. • Operation guide. ·advertisement. • Information on benefits for member customers. • Recruiting non-member customers to become members. • Call a staff member button. • The amount of change dispenser 209 in maintenance mode when a store employee is performing work.

[0162] Furthermore, the registered payment device 20 (payment machine) in the payment-only mode is not limited to performing payments based on registration data generated in the registered payment device 20 in the employee registration mode. For example, the payment machine can also perform payments based on registration data generated by a mobile terminal (e.g., a smartphone).

[0163] According to Modification 8, in the employee registration mode and the full self-service mode, the information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b can be notified to the customer, thus enabling effective use of the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0164] (Variation 9: Example of using the second customer-side display unit 205b facing the store clerk) Next, we will describe Modification 9. Modification 9 describes an example in which the second customer-side display unit 205b is rotatable and can be directed towards the staff or the customer. In Modification 9, the second customer-side display unit 205b is used facing the staff. An example of the information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b when it is facing the staff is listed below. • A screen similar to the one displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a (mirroring). For example, the area operated by the customer is displayed in a way that makes it visible. • The cash dispenser 209 has a high balance. Member information and details of member information. • Customer operation images (images of operation at a payment machine; images of a customer operating the machine in person). • Information regarding calling a store clerk in the registered payment device 20, which operates in full self-service mode or payment-only mode. • Congestion status of the registration and payment machines 20 operating in full self-service mode (guidance to direct users to available registration and payment machines 20). • Special sale information. • Out of stock item. ·weather.

[0165] Furthermore, the registration and payment device 20 may enable the registration of the next customer depending on the orientation of the second customer-side display unit 205b. Specifically, the registration and payment device 20 enables the registration of the next customer by orienting the second customer-side display unit 205b toward the customer. On the other hand, by orienting the second customer-side display unit 205b toward the store clerk, the registration and payment device 20 prohibits the registration of the next customer.

[0166] According to Modification 9, in the staff registration mode, the information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b can be notified to the staff, thus enabling effective use of the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0167] (Variation 10: Example of use of customer-side scanner unit 206 and employee-side scanner unit 212) Next, we will describe a modified example 10. In modified example 10, we will describe an example in which the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the store clerk-side scanner unit 212 are used depending on whether or not the next customer is registered. If the next customer is not registered, the reading of the membership code and payment code can be done by at least one of the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the store clerk-side scanner unit 212. On the other hand, if the next customer is registered, the store clerk-side scanner unit 212 is used to read the next customer's membership code and product code. For this reason, the reading of the current customer 510's membership code and payment code can be done by the customer-side scanner unit 206.

[0168] According to Modification 10, the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the employee-side scanner unit 212 can be used efficiently depending on whether or not the next customer is registered.

[0169] (Variation 11: Another example of the customer-side display unit 205) Next, we will describe Modification 11. In the embodiments described above, examples were given in which the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b are provided separately. In Modification 11, we will describe an example in which the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b are integrated.

[0170] In modified example 11, the registration and settlement device 20 is equipped with one customer-side display unit 205 (one display) instead of the first customer-side display unit 205a and the second customer-side display unit 205b. The display control unit 403 causes the customer-side display unit 205 to display a first display area and a second display area. The first display area is an area that displays transaction information similar to the transaction information displayed on the first customer-side display unit 205a. The second display area is an area that displays transaction information similar to the transaction information displayed on the second customer-side display unit 205b. It is desirable that the area of ​​the customer-side display unit 205 be approximately the same as, for example, the area of ​​the first customer-side display unit 205a plus the area of ​​the second customer-side display unit 205b.

[0171] According to modification 11, the customer-side display unit 205 can be simplified. Furthermore, according to the configuration of the modified example 11 of the first embodiment, the current customer 510 can perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the second display area, and the next customer 520 can conduct a transaction while checking the registered products displayed in the first display area. According to the modified version 11 of the second embodiment, the current customer 510 can perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the first display area, and the next customer 520 can perform the transaction while checking the registered products displayed in the second display area. Therefore, in transactions with multiple customers, it is possible to ensure that each customer understands the details of the transaction, thereby supporting appropriate transactions.

[0172] The following is a summary of the embodiments. [Title of Invention] Sales Data Processing Device and Program [Technical Field] The present invention relates to a sales data processing device and a program. [Background technology]

[0173] In recent years, face-to-face sales data processing devices (cash registers) that register products through the operation of the store clerk and allow customers to complete the payment have become widespread (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Some of these sales data processing devices are capable of registering products for the next customer while the current customer is completing their payment. [Prior art document] [Patent] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2020-064330 [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] However, conventional technology had a problem in that current and prospective customers sometimes could not understand the details of the transaction, which could prevent the transaction from being conducted properly. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can support appropriate transactions.

[0174] [Means for solving the problem] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a sales data processing device according to one aspect of the present invention is a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, comprising: a registration means for registering products; and a display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area, wherein the registration means is capable of registering products for the next customer before the transaction with the current customer is completed, and the display control means, when the registration means registers products for the next customer, switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first display area to the second display area, and displays the second transaction information, including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area. With the above configuration, the current customer can perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the second display unit, and the next customer can conduct transactions while checking the registered products displayed on the first display unit. Therefore, in transactions with multiple customers, each customer can be made aware of the details of the transaction, thereby supporting appropriate transactions.

[0175] (2) In the configuration of (1) above, the system may be configured to include a settlement means for settling the goods registered by the registration means, wherein the first transaction information includes settlement-related information relating to the settlement of the goods of the current customer, and the display control means switches the display destination of the settlement-related information from the first display area to the second display area when the registration means registers the goods of the next customer, and the settlement means settles the goods of the current customer based on the settlement-related information displayed in the second display area. With the above configuration, the current customer can perform settlement while checking settlement-related information displayed in the second display unit, and the next customer can conduct transactions while checking registered products displayed in the first display unit.

[0176] (3) In the configuration of (2) above, if the registration means does not register the next customer's products, the display control means may continue to display the payment-related information in the first display area, and the payment means may perform payment for the current customer's products based on the payment-related information displayed in the first display area. According to the above configuration, if there are no other customers, the current customer can complete the payment process at the first display unit without having to move to the second display unit.

[0177] (4) In the configuration of (2) or (3) above, the registration means may, when the settlement-related information is displayed in the first display area and the settlement of the current customer has begun, prohibit the registration of the next customer's products, and the display control means may cause the settlement-related information to continue to be displayed in the first display area. With the above configuration, if the customer's payment has already started on the first display unit, the payment process can continue on the first display unit, allowing for a quick completion of the payment.

[0178] (5) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the display control means may, when the display destination of the first transaction information is switched to the second display area in the case of a change in the registered contents of the customer, display the first transaction information related to the change in the second display area, and when the first transaction information is displayed in the first display area, display the first transaction information related to the change in the first display area. With the above configuration, when changing registration details, the customer-side display unit currently being used by the customer can be used, allowing the customer to confirm the changes to their registration details without shifting their gaze.

[0179] (6) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, comprising: a registration means for registering products; a display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area; and a settlement means for settling the products registered by the registration means, wherein the registration means can register products for the next customer before the transaction with the current customer is completed, the display control means displays second transaction information, including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means, in the second display area, and after the settlement of the products of the current customer is completed by the settlement means, the display destination of the second transaction information is switched from the second display area to the first display area. With the above configuration, the current customer can perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the first display unit, and the next customer can conduct transactions while checking the registered products displayed on the second display unit. Therefore, in transactions with multiple customers, each customer can be made aware of the details of the transaction, thereby supporting appropriate transactions.

[0180] (7) In the configuration of (6) above, the display control means may, when the display destination of the second transaction information is switched to the first display area in the change of the registered contents of the next customer, display the second transaction information related to the change in the first display area, and when the second transaction information is displayed in the second display area, display the second transaction information related to the change in the second display area. With the above configuration, when changing registration details, the customer-side display unit being used by the next customer can be used, allowing the customer to confirm the changes to their registration details without shifting their gaze.

[0181] (8) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, wherein the computer functions as a registration means for registering products, and a display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area, wherein the registration means can register products for the next customer before the transaction with the current customer is completed, and the display control means, when the registration means registers products for the next customer, switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first display area to the second display area, and displays the second transaction information, including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means, in the first display area. With the above configuration, the current customer can perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the second display unit, and the next customer can conduct transactions while checking the registered products displayed on the first display unit. Therefore, in transactions with multiple customers, each customer can be made aware of the details of the transaction, thereby supporting appropriate transactions.

[0182] (9) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, wherein the computer functions as a registration means for registering products, a display control means for displaying first transaction information including the products of the current customer registered by the registration means in the first display area, and a settlement means for settling the products registered by the registration means, wherein the display control means displays second transaction information including the products of the next customer registered by the registration means in the second display area, and after the settlement of the products of the current customer is completed by the settlement means, the display destination of the second transaction information is switched from the second display area to the first display area. With the above configuration, the current customer can perform payment (face-to-face payment) while checking the first display unit, and the next customer can conduct transactions while checking the registered products displayed on the second display unit. Therefore, in transactions with multiple customers, each customer can be made aware of the details of the transaction, thereby supporting appropriate transactions.

[0183] Furthermore, all or part of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of the registration and settlement device 20 described above may be implemented in a device other than the one described as the entity that executes the said function.

[0184] Specifically, the above description described a configuration in which the registration and settlement device 20 comprises a registration unit 401 and functional units: a declaration reception unit 402, a display control unit 403, and a settlement unit 404. 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, an external server device, or another computer device. Furthermore, the computer devices equipped with these functional units are not limited to multiple devices, but may consist of just one device.

[0185] Specifically, for example, instead of the registration and settlement device 20, the store controller 10 or an external server device may, when the next customer is registered, switch the display destination of the first transaction information, including the registered products of the current customer 510, from the first customer-side display unit 205a to the second customer-side display unit 205b, and execute a process to display the second transaction information, including the registered products of the next customer 520, on the first customer-side display unit 205a.

[0186] In relation to the above, the registration and settlement device 20 may function as a so-called thin client specializing in the input / output interface portion for product registration and settlement. That is, the registration and settlement 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 from 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).

[0187] Furthermore, the program for implementing the sales data processing system St and the registration settlement device 20 described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be loaded into a computer system and executed. Here, "computer system" includes hardware such as the OS and peripheral devices. "Computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash memory, SSD (Solid State Drive), flexible disk, magneto-optical disk, ROM, CD-ROM, 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 the 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, "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 intended to implement some of the functions described above. It may also be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the aforementioned functions in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0188] St…Sales data processing system, 10…Store controller, 20…Registration and settlement device, 201…CPU, 202…ROM, 203…RAM, 204…Hard disk, 205…Customer-side display unit, 206…Customer-side scanner unit, 208…Payment terminal, 209…Change dispenser, 210…Employee-side display unit, 211…Key operation unit, 212…Employee-side scanner unit, 215…Communication unit, 216…Camera, 401…Registration unit, 402…Declaration reception unit, 403…Display control unit, 404…Settlement unit

Claims

1. A sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, A registration method for registering products, A display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the customer's products registered by the registration means, in the first display area, Equipped with, The registration means can register the next customer's product before the transaction with the current customer is completed. When the registration means registers the next customer's product, the display control means switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first display area to the second display area. The second transaction information, including the next customer's product registered by the registration means, is displayed in the first display area. A sales data processing device characterized by the following features.

2. The system includes a settlement means for settling the payment for goods registered by the registration means, The first transaction information includes settlement-related information relating to the settlement of the customer's goods, When the registration means registers the next customer's product, the display control means switches the display destination of the settlement-related information from the first display area to the second display area. The settlement means settles the payment for the customer's items based on the settlement-related information displayed in the second display area. The sales data processing device according to feature 1.

3. If the registration means does not register the next customer's product, the display control means will continue to display the payment-related information in the first display area. The settlement means settles the payment for the customer's items based on the settlement-related information displayed in the first display area. The sales data processing device according to feature 2.

4. When the payment-related information is displayed in the first display area and the payment of the current customer has begun, the registration means prohibits the registration of the next customer's products. The display control means causes the settlement-related information to be continuously displayed in the first display area. The sales data processing device according to feature 2 or 3.

5. The display control means, in the case of changing the registered contents of the current customer, If the display destination of the first transaction information is switched to the second display area, the first transaction information subject to the change will be displayed in the second display area. If the first transaction information is displayed in the first display area, the first transaction information related to the change is displayed in the first display area. The sales data processing device according to feature 1 or 2.

6. A sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, A registration method for registering products, A display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the customer's products registered by the registration means, in the first display area, A settlement means for settling the payment for goods registered by the registration means, Equipped with, The registration means can register the next customer's product before the transaction with the current customer is completed. The display control means is The second transaction information, including the next customer's product registered by the registration means, is displayed in the second display area. After the settlement of the customer's goods is completed by the settlement means, the display destination of the second transaction information is switched from the second display area to the first display area. A sales data processing device characterized by the following features.

7. The display control means, in changing the registration details of the next customer, If the display destination of the second transaction information is switched to the first display area, the second transaction information subject to the change will be displayed in the first display area. If the second transaction information is displayed in the second display area, the second transaction information related to the change is displayed in the second display area. The sales data processing device according to feature 6.

8. A program that causes a computer to function as a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, The aforementioned computer, Registration method for registering products, Display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the customer's products registered by the registration means, in the first display area. To make it function as, The registration means can register the next customer's product before the transaction with the current customer is completed. When the registration means registers the next customer's product, the display control means switches the display destination of the first transaction information from the first display area to the second display area. The second transaction information, including the next customer's product registered by the registration means, is displayed in the first display area. A program characterized by the following features.

9. A program that causes a computer to function as a sales data processing device that displays transaction information in a first display area and a second display area facing the customer, The aforementioned computer, Registration method for registering products, Display control means for displaying first transaction information, including the customer's products registered by the registration means, in the first display area. A settlement means for settling the payment for goods registered by the aforementioned registration means, To make it function as, The display control means is The second transaction information, including the next customer's product registered by the registration means, is displayed in the second display area. After the settlement of the customer's goods is completed by the settlement means, the display destination of the second transaction information is switched from the second display area to the first display area. A program characterized by the following features.