Transaction processing device and information processing program
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TOSHIBA TEC KK
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-05
Smart Images
Figure 2026126865000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a transaction processing device and an information processing program.
Background Art
[0002] [ When selling goods to non-residents such as foreign tourists, there is a so-called duty-free system that exempts consumption tax on such goods.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a transaction processing device and an information processing program that can reduce the burden on store clerks in duty-free transactions.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0005] The transaction processing device according to the embodiment includes a first confirmation means, a second confirmation means, and a processing means. The first confirmation means confirms whether the duty-free requirements are met for a transaction for which duty-free application is specified. The second confirmation means confirms whether different restrictive conditions are met for duty-free target goods among the transaction goods targeted for the transaction. The processing means performs predetermined processing for applying duty-free to the transaction when it is confirmed by the first confirmation means that the requirements are met and it is confirmed by the second confirmation means that the restrictive conditions are met.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0006] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a transaction processing system configured using a POS terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a POS terminal device. [Figure 3] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 4] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 5] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 6] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 7] Flowchart of the adjustment process. [Figure 8] A diagram illustrating an example of a list screen. [Figure 9] A diagram illustrating an example of a window displayed on the details screen. [Figure 10] Flowchart for post-payment tax exemption processing. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0007] An example of an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a POS (point-of-sale) terminal device will be used as an example of a transaction processing device. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a transaction processing system configured using the POS terminal device 100 of this embodiment.
[0008] The transaction processing system shown in Figure 1 is an example of a system built to adapt to multiple stores in a chain. The transaction processing system is configured to enable communication between multiple store systems 1 and a tax-free server 2 via a communication network 3. The communication network 3 can be the internet, VPN (virtual private network), LAN (local area network), public communication network, mobile communication network, etc., either individually or in appropriate combinations. As an example of the communication network 3, the internet or VPN is used.
[0009] Store System 1 is set up, for example, in association with each of multiple stores. Tax-free Server 2 is set up, for example, in a headquarters that oversees multiple stores. Tax-free Server 2 is an information processing device that collects information related to transactions processed by Store System 1 from each Store System 1 and processes that information to manage multiple transactions conducted at each store. In addition, Tax-free Server 2 stores restriction information that represents restrictions set by the store operator, for example, separate from the requirements for tax exemption under the tax system. The store system 1 includes a POS terminal device 100, a store server 200, a tax-free terminal device 300, a communication device 400, and a communication network 500.
[0010] The POS terminal device 100 processes transactions for the sale of goods to customers in a store. In other words, the POS terminal device 100 is an example of a transaction processing device that processes transactions related to the sale of goods between the store operator and the customer. In many cases, multiple POS terminal devices 100 are included in the store system 1. However, it is also acceptable for only one POS terminal device 100 to be included in the store system 1. Furthermore, the number of POS terminal devices 100 included in multiple store systems 1 is arbitrary for each system.
[0011] The store server 200, together with the POS terminal device 100 included in the same store system 1, constitutes a POS system. The store server 200 is an information processing device that collects transaction information processed by the POS system to which it belongs from the POS terminal device 100 and processes that information to manage multiple transactions that take place in a single store.
[0012] The tax-free terminal device 300 is, for example, a handheld information processing device that performs information processing for applying tax exemption to transactions processed by the POS terminal device 100. The tax-free terminal device 300 has at least a passport reader, a display device, a communication device for communication via the communication network 500, or various operation buttons. Multiple tax-free terminal devices 300 are provided, for example, in association with each of the POS terminal devices 100 used to process transactions to which tax exemption applies.
[0013] The communication device 400 enables communication between a device connected to the communication network 3 and a device connected to the communication network 500 by interfacing communication in the communication network 3 and communication in the communication network 500. The communication network 500 enables data communication between connected devices. As the communication network 500, the Internet, a VPN, a LAN, a public communication network, a mobile communication network, etc. can be used alone or in appropriate combination. As the communication network 500, for example, a LAN is used. However, in the present embodiment, although both the POS terminal device 100 and the duty-free terminal device 300 are connected to the communication network 500, in the operations described later, the POS terminal device 100 and the duty-free terminal device 300 do not communicate via the communication network 500.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal device 100. The POS terminal device 100 is a so-called face-to-face type, and mainly a store clerk serves as its operator. The POS terminal device 100 is installed in a store or the like in a state facing the work space for the store clerk. Customers usually wait in a waiting space defined separately from the work space.
[0015] The POS terminal device 100 includes a processor 101, a main storage unit 102, a sub-storage unit 103, an input unit 104, a display unit 105, a sound unit 106, a fixed scanner 107, a handy scanner 108, a money receiving unit 109, a settlement unit 110, a printer 111, a communication unit 112, a transmission path 113, and the like.
[0016] By connecting the processor 101, the main storage unit 102, and the sub-storage unit 103 via the transmission path 113, a computer for performing information processing for controlling the POS terminal device 100 is configured. The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the above computer. The processor 101 executes information processing for controlling each part in order to realize various functions as the POS terminal device 100 according to information processing programs such as an operating system and application programs.
[0017] The main memory unit 102 corresponds to the main memory part of the above computer. The main memory unit 102 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 102 stores a part of the above information processing program in the read-only memory area. Also, the main memory unit 102 may store data necessary for the processor 101 to execute processing for controlling each part in the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 102 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area by the processor 101.
[0018] The sub-memory unit 103 corresponds to the auxiliary memory part of the above computer. The sub-memory unit 103 can use, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disc drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or other various well-known memory devices. The sub-memory unit 103 stores data used when the processor 101 performs various processes and data generated by the processes in the processor 101. The sub-memory unit 103 may store the above information processing program. In the present embodiment, the sub-memory unit 103 stores a transaction processing program PRA which is one of the information processing programs. The transaction processing program PRA is an application program that describes the procedure of the processing described later by the processor 101.
[0019] The input unit 104 receives various instructions from the operator. The input unit 104 can use well-known input devices such as touch sensors, key switches, and keyboards, either individually or in combination. An example of an input device included in the input unit 104 is a touch sensor provided on a touch panel.
[0020] The display unit 105 performs various display operations to notify the operator of various information. The display unit 105 can use well-known display devices, such as liquid crystal displays and light-emitting devices such as LED lamps, either individually or in combination. One of the display devices included in the display unit 105 is, for example, the display device provided on the touch panel described above. The sound unit 106 outputs sounds for various announcements and alarms. The sound unit 106 can use various well-known sound devices, such as a speech synthesis device and a buzzer, either individually or in combination.
[0021] The fixed scanner 107 has a reading window facing the operator. The fixed scanner 107 captures an image of the product held in front of the reading window and recognizes the barcode information represented by the barcode through image processing. The fixed scanner 107 then outputs the barcode information to the processor 101. The fixed scanner 107 can also utilize other types of well-known devices that optically read barcodes using the reflection of laser light. Furthermore, the fixed scanner 107 can also utilize a type of well-known device that has the function of identifying products using object recognition technology from the image of the product itself obtained by capturing the product. The handheld scanner 108 is used by the operator and optically reads the barcode placed opposite the reader. The handheld scanner 108 outputs the barcode information represented by the read barcode to the processor 101.
[0022] The coin receiving unit 109 counts the coins inserted through the coin slot and stores them in its internal storage compartment. The coin receiving unit 109 then discharges the coins stored in its storage compartment into a coin tray via a coin discharge port. The coin receiving unit 109 also counts the banknotes inserted through the banknote slot and stores them in its internal storage compartment. The coin receiving unit 109 then discharges the banknotes stored in its storage compartment through a banknote discharge port. The banknote discharge port holds the discharged banknotes with a portion of them exposed to the outside. Thus, the coin receiving unit 109 functions as a change dispenser.
[0023] The payment unit 110 reads data recorded on payment cards such as credit cards, prepaid cards, and electronic money cards. The payment unit 110 also writes data to payment cards. The payment unit 110 is equipped with reading devices that correspond to IC (integrated circuit) reading, magnetic reading, and proximity communication reading of credit cards. The reading device for IC reading reads data stored in the IC provided on the credit card through communication via electrical contacts. The reading device for magnetic reading reads data magnetically recorded on the magnetic stripe formed on the surface of the credit card using a magnetic head. The reading device for proximity communication reading reads data stored in the IC provided on the credit card through wireless communication such as NFC (near field communication).
[0024] Printer 111 prints images of transaction-related documents such as receipts, invoices, or sales slips onto receipt paper. Printer 111 also prints images of documents such as coupons related to the right to use benefits. Printer 111 ejects the receipt paper with the above images printed on it from the receipt output slot. Thus, printer 111 functions as a receipt issuing device.
[0025] The communication unit 112 performs communication processing for data communication over the communication network. The communication unit 112 can use, for example, an existing communication device for a LAN. The transmission line 113 includes an address bus, a data bus, and control signal lines, and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected parts.
[0026] The hardware of the POS terminal device 100 can, for example, be the hardware of an existing POS terminal of the same type. Generally, the POS terminal device 100 is transferred with the transaction processing program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 103. However, the hardware may be transferred separately from the transaction processing program PRA, either without the transaction processing program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 103, or with a different version of the same type of application program stored in the sub-storage unit 103. The POS terminal device 100 may also be configured by writing the transaction processing program PRA to the sub-storage unit 103 in response to an operation by any worker. The transfer of the transaction processing program PRA can be done by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network.
[0027] Next, the operation of the POS terminal device 100 configured as described above will be explained. Note that the content of the processes described below is just an example, and it is possible to change the order of some processes, omit some processes, or add other processes as appropriate. For example, in the following explanation, some processes have been omitted in order to clearly explain the characteristic operation of this embodiment. For example, after transitioning from one processing state to another, the system may return to the processing state before the transition in response to instructions from the operator, but such processes have been omitted from the description. Or, for example, if some error occurs, processing to deal with that error may be performed, but such processes have been omitted from the description.
[0028] [Processing new transactions] The customer walks around the store and picks up the items they wish to purchase. Once the customer has finished selecting all the items they wish to buy, they hand the items to the store clerk operating the POS terminal 100. When the store clerk receives the items from the customer, while the POS terminal 100 is in standby mode, they perform a predetermined operation, for example, on the input unit 104, to specify the start of processing for a new transaction. Once the start is specified in this way, the processor 101 begins the transaction processing described below within the processing based on the transaction processing program PRA.
[0029] Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6 are flowcharts of the transaction process. In Figure 3, the processor 101, as ACT1, displays the registration screen on the display unit 105. The registration screen is a screen that allows store employees to recognize the registration status of the goods to be traded (hereinafter referred to as "traded goods"). The registration screen is a screen that displays, for example, a list of the names of the goods that the customer is purchasing, i.e., the traded goods, the unit price of each traded item, or the total amount of all traded goods.
[0030] In ACT2, processor 101 checks whether the instruction to terminate the registration of the trading product has been given. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT3. In ACT3, processor 101 checks whether a change in the transaction details has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT4. In ACT4, processor 101 checks whether a designation for tax exemption has been made. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT2. Thus, processor 101 waits for termination, modification, or tax exemption to be specified as ACT2 to ACT4.
[0031] The store clerk sequentially performs operations to register each item entrusted to them by the customer as a transaction item. These operations include, for example, scanning the barcode displayed on the item using a fixed scanner 107 or a handheld scanner 108. These operations include, for example, operating the input unit 104 for directly entering the product code. These operations include, for example, operating the input unit 104 such that the product is assigned a preset key. These operations include, for example, specifying a change or deletion of the quantity for an already registered transaction item. These operations are, in essence, the same as those performed on existing POS terminals.
[0032] If an operation to specify the above-mentioned change in transaction details is performed, processor 101 determines YES in ACT3 and proceeds to ACT5. As ACT5, processor 101 modifies the transaction details to reflect the changes specified by the store clerk. When processor 101 executes ACT5 for the first time, it generates transaction data containing only the information about the newly specified product and saves it, for example, in sub-storage unit 103.
[0033] As ACT6, processor 101 updates the registration screen to reflect the updated transaction details. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state of ACT2-ACT4. Then processor 101 repeats ACT5 and ACT6 in response to operations performed sequentially by the store clerk. During this time, processor 101 updates the transaction data stored in sub-storage unit 103 as described above. Thus, by having the processor 101 perform information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a registration means.
[0034] If a customer wishes to apply for tax exemption, the store clerk can specify tax exemption at any time before the completion of payment, as described later, by performing a predetermined operation such as pressing the first tax exemption key included in the input unit 104. Such specification of tax exemption will be referred to as transaction-time tax exemption specification hereafter. If transaction-time tax exemption specification is made while the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT2 to ACT4, it determines YES in ACT4 and proceeds to ACT7.
[0035] As ACT7, processor 101 displays a read-waiting screen. The read-waiting screen is a screen that guides the operator to read the tax-free information. The store clerk operates the tax-free terminal device 300 to input passport information such as the passport number, or other predetermined information necessary for the tax-free application. In response, the tax-free terminal device 300 queries the tax-free server 2 for tax-free information, along with a notification of the input information. Upon receiving this query, the tax-free server 2 returns response information containing a two-dimensional code representing the tax-free information to the originating tax-free terminal device 300. Upon receiving the response information from the tax-free server 2, the tax-free terminal device 300 displays the aforementioned two-dimensional code on the display device provided by the tax-free terminal device 300. When the two-dimensional code is displayed on the tax-free terminal device 300, the store clerk has the fixed scanner 107 read it. Thus, the fixed scanner 107 functions as a reading means for reading two-dimensional codes as an example of optically readable codes. If the store clerk wishes to cancel the application of the tax-free status for any reason, they specify cancellation by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping a cancellation key provided as a soft key on the reading waiting screen.
[0036] In ACT8, processor 101 checks whether tax exemption information has been obtained. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT9. As ACT9, processor 101 checks if the cancellation of the tax exemption has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT8. Thus, processor 101 waits for either tax exemption information to be acquired or cancellation to be specified as ACT8 and ACT9. If cancellation of tax exemption is specified as described above, processor 101 determines YES in ACT9 and returns to ACT1, repeating ACT1 onwards in the same manner as described above.
[0037] When the fixed scanner 107 reads the two-dimensional code representing tax-free information, the processor 101 determines that tax-free information has been acquired and verifies YES in ACT8, then proceeds to ACT10. As ACT10, processor 101 stores tax-free information related to the read two-dimensional code in sub-storage unit 103.
[0038] Duty-free information includes passport information and restriction information. Passport information includes nationality code, converted nationality code, passport number, gender, date of birth, residence status code, cumulative number of times, cumulative amount, and age. Restriction information includes setting information for checks related to subcategories (hereinafter referred to as subcategories), setting information for checks related to departments (hereinafter referred to as departments), and setting information for checks related to specific products (hereinafter referred to as specific products).
[0039] In this embodiment, the subcategory check may include 20 pieces of configuration information. Each piece of configuration information for the subcategory check represents a subcategory code, which is an identifier for the subcategory to which each product handled by the store belongs, and the possible number of items, which is the number of items that are allowed to be tax-exempt for products belonging to the subcategory identified by that subcategory code.
[0040] In this embodiment, the department check may include eight pieces of configuration information. Five of the configuration pieces for the department check represent a department code, which is an identifier for the department to which each product handled in the store belongs, and the possible number of items, which is the number of items belonging to the department identified by that department code that are allowed to be tax-exempt. Three of the configuration pieces for the department check represent a department code and the possible amount, which is the amount of items belonging to the department identified by that department code that are allowed to be tax-exempt.
[0041] In this embodiment, the specific product check may include 10 pieces of setting information. The setting information for the specific product check represents the possible number of items that can be exempt from tax among the products handled by the store that are designated as specific products. Tax-free information may include other information such as store code, date, time, and address. The information to be included in the tax exemption information may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the person who determined the specifications for the transaction processing system or store system 1. Similarly, the content of the setting information included in the restriction information may be determined as appropriate by, for example, a person in charge belonging to the business operator running the store.
[0042] Once processor 101 has finished saving the tax-free information, it returns to ACT1 and repeats the process as described above. Furthermore, if cancellation is specified as described above, processor 101 will determine YES in ACT9 and return to the waiting state of ACT2 to ACT6.
[0043] Once the clerk has finished registering the transaction details, designating each item entrusted by the customer as a transaction item, they specify the end of registration using a predetermined operation. This specification is what is known as a subtotal declaration. In response to this specification, processor 101 determines YES in ACT2 and proceeds to ACT21 in Figure 4.
[0044] As ACT21, processor 101 checks if the tax exemption information saved in ACT10 in Figure 3 exists. If processor 101 cannot confirm that the tax exemption information exists, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT22 in Figure 4. As ACT22, processor 101 displays the first confirmation screen on display unit 105. The first confirmation screen is a screen that allows the store clerk to confirm whether to proceed with payment according to the transaction details.
[0045] As ACT23, processor 101 checks if a return to registration has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT24. As ACT24, processor 101 checks if a transition to payment has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT25. As ACT25, processor 101 checks whether the tax exemption has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT23. Thus, processor 101 awaits the designation of one of the following as ACT23-ACT25: return, settlement transition, or tax exemption application.
[0046] If the store clerk needs to change the registration details, they specify a return by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the return button provided as a soft key on the first confirmation screen. In response, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT23 and returns to ACT1 in Figure 3, and repeats the subsequent processing as described above.
[0047] If the customer does not wish to apply for tax exemption, the store clerk will ask the customer about their preferred payment method. Then, before or after this, the store clerk will specify the transition to payment through a predetermined operation, such as tapping the payment button provided as a soft key on the first confirmation screen. In response, processor 101 will determine YES in ACT24 and proceed to ACT26.
[0048] As ACT26, processor 101 displays a selection screen on display unit 105. The selection screen allows the user to select a payment method from among the permitted payment methods. The selection screen may be similar to the screen displayed on existing POS terminal devices of the same type.
[0049] As ACT27, processor 101 executes a settlement process to settle the payment for the registered transaction. That is, processor 101 settles the payment using the payment method selected by a predetermined operation on the selection screen, for example. After completing the settlement, processor 101 proceeds to ACT28. The specific process for settling the payment may be the same as that used in existing POS terminal devices of the same type. Processor 101 also creates printable data for a transaction receipt that shows the details of the transaction and the settlement result. For example, processor 101 creates printable data so that a barcode representing identification information for identifying the transaction is displayed on the transaction receipt.
[0050] As ACT28, processor 101 issues a transaction receipt for the current transaction. For example, processor 101 sends the print data created in ACT27 to printer 111, causing it to print the image represented by this print data. The transaction receipt is then issued when printer 111 ejects the receipt paper with the printed image.
[0051] As ACT29, processor 101 generates a transaction (hereinafter referred to as "transaction") representing the details of the transaction and the settlement result, and sends it to store server 200. The transaction may be the same as the transaction in an existing POS system. Processor 101 terminates this transaction processing upon completion of ACT29.
[0052] If the customer wishes to apply for tax exemption and has not specified tax exemption at the time of transaction while the registration screen is displayed, the store clerk may specify tax exemption at the time of transaction even while the first confirmation screen is displayed. Then, when the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT23 to ACT25 and a tax exemption is specified at the time of transaction, it determines YES at ACT25 and proceeds to ACT30.
[0053] As ACT30, processor 101 displays a read-wait screen, similar to ACT7 in Figure 3. The store clerk performs the same operations as described above when processor 101 displays a read waiting screen in ACT7.
[0054] In Figure 4, as ACT31, processor 101 checks whether tax exemption information has been obtained. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT32. As ACT32, processor 101 checks whether the cancellation of the tax exemption has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT31. Thus, processor 101 waits for either tax exemption information to be acquired or cancellation to be specified as ACT31 and ACT32. If cancellation of tax exemption is specified, processor 101 determines YES in ACT32 and returns to ACT22, and repeats ACT22 and subsequent steps as described above.
[0055] When the fixed scanner 107 reads the two-dimensional code representing tax-free information, the processor 101 determines that tax-free information has been acquired and YES in ACT31, and proceeds to ACT33. As ACT33, processor 101 stores the tax-free information represented by the read two-dimensional code in sub-storage unit 103.
[0056] Processor 101 then proceeds to ACT41 in Figure 5. If processor 101 can confirm that the tax exemption information saved in ACT10 in Figure 3 exists, it will determine YES in ACT21 and proceed to ACT41 in Figure 5 without performing ACT22 to ACT33.
[0057] As ACT41, processor 101 performs a tax requirements check. The tax requirements check is a process to check whether the contents of a transaction meet the requirements for tax exemption (hereinafter referred to as "tax requirements"). The tax requirements check may be the same process as that performed in existing POS terminal devices of the same type. For example, processor 101 calculates the total amount of goods that fall under the category of general goods among the goods being traded and verifies whether it is 5,000 yen or more. For example, processor 101 calculates the total amount of goods that fall under the category of consumables among the goods being traded and verifies whether it is 5,000 yen or more and 500,000 yen or less. For example, processor 101 calculates the total amount of goods that fall under the category of general goods or consumables among the goods being traded and verifies whether it is 5,000 yen or more and 500,000 yen or less. Thus, by processor 101 executing information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as the first verification means.
[0058] As ACT42, processor 101 checks whether the tax requirements are met based on the results of ACT41. Then, if it does not meet the requirements, processor 101 determines NO and proceeds to process the non-compliance. The explanation of processor 101's process in this case is omitted. However, if it does meet the requirements, processor 101 determines YES and proceeds to ACT43.
[0059] As ACT43, processor 101 performs a departmental check. The departmental check is a process for checking the setting information related to departmental checks among the restriction information contained in the tax exemption information stored in sub-storage unit 103. For example, processor 101 performs the following processing for each of the relevant setting information. Processor 101 extracts products belonging to the department identified by the department code contained in the setting information from the goods that are eligible for tax exemption among the traded goods (hereinafter referred to as eligible goods). Then, if the setting information contains the number of possible points, processor 101 calculates the total number of points of the extracted goods. Also, if the setting information may contain the amount of money, processor 101 calculates the total amount of money of the extracted goods. Then, processor 101 compares the calculated total number of points or total amount with the number of possible points or amount of money contained in the same setting information to check whether there is a predetermined excess state. For example, processor 101 considers a state where the total number of points is greater than the number of possible points to be an excess state. Also, processor 101 considers a state where the total amount is greater than the amount of money to be an excess state. However, the conditions for determining an "exceeded state" for the processor 101 may be appropriately determined by, for example, the person who determined the specifications for the transaction processing system or the store system 1, such as defining an "exceeded state" when the total number of points or the total amount is equal to or greater than the possible number of points or the possible amount.
[0060] As ACT44, processor 101 checks if there was an excess condition in the departmental check of ACT43. If there was an excess condition, processor 101 determines it is YES and proceeds to ACT45. As ACT45, processor 101 performs adjustment processing. Adjustment processing is a process to change the target product in order to resolve the excess condition. Figure 7 is a flowchart of the adjustment process. As ACT81, processor 101 displays a list screen on display unit 105. The list screen is a screen that shows a list of target products.
[0061] Figure 8 shows an example of a list screen. Area ARA on the list screen represents a list of target products. This list shows the product code, product name, quantity, discount amount, and unit price for each target product. Note that the product codes shown in Figure 8 are different from the actual product codes. Product names shown in Figure 8 are represented schematically as "AAAAA". In Figure 8, the unit price is always represented as "99,999,999", which does not represent the actual price.
[0062] The ARB area on the list screen displays text messages to guide the store staff. Figure 8 omits the illustration of specific text messages. Examples of these text messages include: "You have exceeded the sales limit." "Please touch the following item lines to cancel / change quantity / exempt from tax until the excess amount reaches 0."
[0063] The area ARC on the list screen displays the product name and quantity of the product causing the excess condition. If the processor 101 cannot display all the target products on a single page of the list screen, it generates a multi-page list screen and displays one of the pages. The list screen is represented by buttons BUA, BUB, and BUC. Button BUA is a soft key that specifies the cancellation of the tax exemption and the return to the product registration state. Buttons BUB and BUC are soft keys that specify the change of page to display when the list screen has multiple pages.
[0064] The store clerk selects one of the following measures to resolve the excess situation: "cancel," "change quantity," or "exclude from tax exemption," and also selects the products to which the measure will apply. The clerk then specifies the products by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the row displaying the information of the selected products on the list screen. If the clerk decides to cancel the application of tax exemption for any reason and returns to registering the transaction products, they specify the return by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the BUA button.
[0065] In Figure 7, as ACT82, processor 101 checks whether the product has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT83. As ACT83, processor 101 checks if a return is specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT82. Thus, processor 101 waits for goods or returns to be specified as ACT82 and ACT83. If a return is specified as described above, processor 101 determines YES in ACT83 and returns to ACT22 in Figure 4, and repeats the processing from ACT22 onwards as described above. Although not shown in the diagram, at this time processor 101 deletes the tax exemption information stored in sub-storage unit 103.
[0066] On the other hand, if the product is specified as described above, the processor 101 determines YES at ACT82 in Figure 7 and proceeds to ACT84. As ACT84, processor 101 displays the details screen on display unit 105. The details screen is for receiving instructions regarding the actions to be taken for the specified product.
[0067] Figure 9 shows an example of a window WIA displayed on the details screen. Processor 101 uses a screen representing a window WIA overlaid on the list screen that was displayed immediately before as the details screen. The window WIA displays the product name, quantity, unit price, discount amount, and total price for the specified product. The area ARD of the window WIA displays a text message to guide the store clerk's actions. Figure 9 omits the illustration of specific text messages. This text message might be something like, "Select correction operation or scan the barcode."
[0068] The window WIA represents the buttons BUD, BUE, BUF, and BUG. Button BUD is a soft key for specifying "Cancel". Button BUE is a soft key for specifying "Change Quantity". Button BUF is a soft key for specifying "Exclude from Tax". Button BUG is a soft key for specifying to cancel the current product selection.
[0069] "Cancel" removes a portion of the target product from the transaction. "Change Quantity" changes the quantity of a portion of the target product. "Exclude from Tax Exemption" excludes a portion of the target product from the transaction. If the store clerk chooses "Cancel" as the measure, they specify "Cancel" by performing a predetermined operation such as tapping button BUD. If the store clerk chooses "Change Quantity" as the measure, they specify "Change Quantity" by performing a predetermined operation such as tapping button BUE.
[0070] As ACT85, processor 101 checks if a transaction change has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT86. As ACT86, processor 101 checks if a tax exemption has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT87. As ACT87, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT85. Thus, processor 101 waits for one of the following to be specified in ACT85-ACT87: transaction change, tax exemption exclusion, or cancellation. If cancellation is specified as described above, processor 101 determines YES in ACT87 and returns to ACT81, repeating the subsequent processing as described above. If "cancellation" or "quantity change" is specified as described above, processor 101 determines YES in ACT85, assuming that a transaction change has been specified, and proceeds to ACT88.
[0071] As ACT88, processor 101 updates the transaction data to change the transaction details according to the operator's specifications. For example, if "cancel" is specified, processor 101 updates the transaction data to remove the selected target product from the transaction products. For example, if "quantity change" is specified, processor 101 receives the specified new quantity and updates the transaction data to change the quantity of the selected target product to the specified quantity.
[0072] If "exemption from tax exemption" is specified as described above, processor 101 will determine YES in ACT86 and proceed to ACT89. As per ACT89, processor 101 excludes the selected target products from the tax exemption. In other words, processor 101 makes the selected transaction products subject to taxation.
[0073] Then, after completing ACT88 or ACT89, processor 101 terminates the adjustment process. After completing the adjustment process as ACT45 in Figure 5, processor 101 returns to ACT43. Thus, processor 101 performs a departmental check again on the target product that has been modified as described above. Then, processor 101 repeats the adjustment process as ACT45 until the excess condition is resolved. In this way, the processor 101 changes the tax-exempt goods by performing adjustment processing. Thus, by having the processor 101 execute information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a means of modification.
[0074] If there are no excess conditions, processor 101 determines NO in ACT44 and proceeds to ACT46. As ACT46, processor 101 performs a subcategory check. The subcategory check is a process for checking the setting information related to subcategory checks among the restriction information contained in the tax exemption information stored in sub-storage unit 103. For example, processor 101 performs the following processing for each of the relevant setting information. Processor 101 extracts products belonging to the subcategory identified by the subcategory code contained in the setting information from the target products and calculates the total number of points. Then, processor 101 compares this calculated total number of points with the possible number of points contained in the same setting information to check whether it is in a predetermined excess state. For example, processor 101 considers a state where the total number of points is greater than the possible number of points as an excess state. However, the conditions for determining an excess state may be appropriately determined by, for example, the person who determined the specifications of the transaction processing system or store system 1, for example, processor 101 may consider a state where the total number of points is equal to or greater than the possible number of points as an excess state.
[0075] As ACT47, processor 101 checks if there was an excess condition in the subcategory check of ACT46. If there was an excess condition, processor 101 determines it is YES and proceeds to ACT48. As ACT48, processor 101 performs adjustment processing. This adjustment processing may be the same as ACT45, as shown in Figure 7. After completing the adjustment processing as ACT48, processor 101 returns to ACT46.
[0076] If there are no excess conditions, processor 101 determines NO in ACT47 and proceeds to ACT49. As ACT49, processor 101 performs a specific product check. The specific product check is a process for checking the setting information related to specific product checks among the restriction information contained in the tax exemption information stored in sub-storage unit 103. For example, processor 101 performs the following processing for each of the relevant setting information. Processor 101 extracts products predetermined as specific products from the target products. For example, processor 101 extracts products from the target products that are associated with fraud check categories "1" to "10" in the product master database as specific products. Then, it compares the points of the specific product with the possible points included in the setting information for that specific product to check whether it is in a predetermined excess state. For example, processor 101 considers a state where the total points are greater than the possible points to be an excess state. However, the conditions for determining an excess state may be appropriately determined by, for example, the person who determined the specifications of the transaction processing system or store system 1, for example, processor 101 may consider a state where the total points are equal to or greater than the possible points to be an excess state.
[0077] As ACT50, processor 101 checks if there was an excess condition in the specific product check of ACT49. If there was an excess condition, processor 101 determines YES and proceeds to ACT51. As ACT51, processor 101 performs adjustment processing. This adjustment processing may be the same as ACT45, as shown in Figure 7. After completing the adjustment processing as ACT51, processor 101 returns to ACT49.
[0078] If there is no excess condition, processor 101 determines NO in ACT50 and proceeds to ACT61 in Figure 6. Through this processing of ACT43 to ACT51 by processor 101, it is confirmed whether the limiting conditions, which are set separately from the tax requirements, are met. Thus, by processor 101 executing information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a second verification means.
[0079] As ACT61, processor 101 calculates various amounts related to tax exemption. For example, processor 101 calculates the amount for general goods, the amount for consumables, the total amount of tax-exempt goods, the tax exemption amount, and the total amount after tax exemption. The amount for general goods is the total amount of goods that fall under the category of general goods among the goods traded. The amount for consumables is the total amount of goods that fall under the category of consumables among the goods traded. As ACT62, processor 101 displays a second confirmation screen on display unit 105. The second confirmation screen is for the store clerk to confirm the amounts related to tax exemption.
[0080] As ACT63, processor 101 checks if confirmation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT64. As ACT64, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT63. Thus, processor 101 waits for confirmation or cancellation to be specified as ACT63 and ACT64.
[0081] The store clerk decides whether to apply the tax exemption, confirming with the customer as needed. If the store clerk wishes to cancel the tax exemption, they specify the cancellation by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the cancel button provided as a soft key on the second confirmation screen. In response, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT64, returns to ACT22 in Figure 4, and performs the subsequent processing in the same manner as described above.
[0082] If the store clerk wishes to apply the tax exemption, they confirm it by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the apply button provided as a soft key on the second confirmation screen. In response, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT63 and proceeds to ACT65. As ACT65, processor 101 displays a third confirmation screen on display unit 105. The third confirmation screen is for the store clerk to confirm the payment amount after tax exemption has been applied.
[0083] The store clerk checks the third confirmation screen and then specifies the execution of the payment by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the execute button provided as a soft key on the third confirmation screen. As ACT66, processor 101 waits for a payment execution to be specified. Then, if a payment execution is specified as described above, processor 101 determines YES and proceeds to ACT67.
[0084] As ACT67, processor 101 updates the transaction data to represent information regarding the application of tax exemption. This ensures that tax exemption is applied to the transaction being processed. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a processing means.
[0085] Processor 101 performs the same processing as ACT26 to ACT29 in Figure 4, as ACT68 to ACT71. However, as ACT70, processor 101 also issues various receipts related to tax exemption in addition to transaction receipts. Furthermore, as ACT71, processor 101 also includes tax exemption information in the transaction. Processor 101 terminates the transaction processing upon completion of ACT71.
[0086] [Tax exemption treatment for transactions after settlement] If a customer requests tax exemption for a transaction that has already been settled without tax exemption, the store clerk can designate the exemption by performing a predetermined operation, such as pressing the second tax exemption key included in the input unit 104, while the POS terminal 100 is in standby mode. Such designation of tax exemption will hereafter be referred to as post-settlement tax exemption designation. Once a post-settlement tax exemption designation is made in this manner, the processor 101 initiates the post-settlement tax exemption processing described below within the processing based on the transaction processing program PRA.
[0087] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the post-payment tax exemption process. As ACT91, processor 101 displays a read-waiting screen, similar to ACT7 in Figure 3. The store clerk performs the same operations as described above when processor 101 displays a read waiting screen in ACT7.
[0088] In Figure 10, as ACT92, processor 101 checks whether tax exemption information has been acquired. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT93. As ACT93, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT92. Thus, processor 101 waits for either tax exemption information to be acquired or a cancellation to be specified as ACT92 and ACT93. If a cancellation is specified, processor 101 determines YES in ACT93 and terminates the post-settlement tax exemption process.
[0089] When the fixed scanner 107 reads the two-dimensional code representing tax exemption information, the processor 101 determines that tax exemption information has been acquired and verifies YES in ACT92, then proceeds to ACT94. As ACT94, processor 101 stores the tax-free information represented by the read two-dimensional code in sub-storage unit 103.
[0090] As ACT95, processor 101 displays a transaction designation screen on display unit 105. The transaction designation screen is for designating transactions that are eligible for tax exemption. For example, the transaction designation screen is expected to guide the user to scan the barcode shown on the transaction receipt issued for the transaction that is eligible for tax exemption.
[0091] As ACT96, processor 101 checks if a transaction has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT97. As ACT97, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT96. Thus, processor 101 awaits the designation of a transaction or cancellation as ACT96 and ACT97.
[0092] If the store clerk wishes to cancel the tax exemption designation after payment, they specify the cancellation by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the cancel key provided as a soft key on the transaction designation screen. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT97 and terminates the post-payment tax exemption process. For example, the store clerk receives a transaction receipt from the customer for a transaction to which tax exemption should apply, and has the barcode displayed on the transaction receipt read by a fixed scanner 107 or a handheld scanner 108. Alternatively, the store clerk may specify the transaction by another appropriate method, such as using a transaction search function similar to that of existing POS terminal devices to specify the transaction to which tax exemption should apply from among the settled transactions.
[0093] For example, if the processor 101 reads the barcode displayed on the transaction receipt using the fixed scanner 107 or the handheld scanner 108, and obtains transaction identification information from the information displayed by the barcode, it determines that a transaction has been designated. If the transaction has been designated in any way, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT96 and proceeds to ACT98.
[0094] As ACT98, processor 101 sets the specified transaction as a transaction eligible for tax exemption. As ACT99, processor 101 updates the transaction selection screen to display a list of pre-configured target transactions.
[0095] Processor 101, as ACT100, checks whether a change to the target transaction has been specified. If Processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT101. As ACT101, processor 101 checks if confirmation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT102. As ACT102, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT100. Thus, processor 101 waits for changes, confirmations, or cancellations to be specified as ACT100~ACT102.
[0096] If the store clerk wishes to cancel the tax exemption designation after payment, they specify the cancellation by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the cancel key provided as a soft key on the transaction designation screen. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT 102 and terminates the post-payment tax exemption process. If the clerk wishes to add another transaction as a target transaction, they specify the transaction to be added in the same manner as described above. Also, if the clerk wishes to remove an already set target transaction from the target transactions, they specify the transaction to be removed using a predetermined operation. Accordingly, processor 101 determines YES in ACT100 and proceeds to ACT103.
[0097] As ACT103, processor 101 modifies the target transactions according to the specifications. For example, if a transaction to be added is specified, processor 101 sets that transaction as a target transaction. Also, if a transaction to be excluded is specified, processor 101 excludes that transaction from the target transactions. After this, processor 101 returns to ACT99, updates the transaction specification screen to reflect the changes to the target transactions, and then returns to the waiting state of ACT100~ACT102.
[0098] Thus, processor 101 determines, as ACT98 and ACT103, at least one settled transaction designated as eligible for tax exemption. By having processor 101 perform information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a determination means.
[0099] Once the store clerk has finished setting up one or more transactions that should be eligible for tax exemption, they specify confirmation using a predetermined operation. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT101 and proceeds to ACT104. As ACT104, processor 101 performs a tax-free check. The tax-free check is the same process as ACT41 to ACT50 in Figure 5. However, if the store has a policy of not allowing returns after tax-free processing has been completed, processor 101 may omit ACT85 and ACT88 in Figure 7 during the adjustment processes in ACT45, ACT48, and ACT51.
[0100] In Figure 10, processor 101, designated as ACT105, performs tax exemption processing. Tax exemption processing is a notification process for correcting taxation in accordance with the decision to exempt the target goods from tax. As ACT106, processor 101 generates a transaction representing the changes to the transaction related to the application of tax exemption for the target transaction and sends it to store server 200. Processor 101 terminates the post-settlement tax exemption process upon completion of ACT106.
[0101] As described above, the POS terminal device 100 checks whether the tax requirements for tax exemption are met, as well as whether predetermined restrictions different from the above requirements are met. If it is confirmed that the above requirements are met and that the above restrictions are met, the terminal device 100 processes the application of tax exemption. Thus, store employees do not need to check whether the tax requirements are met or whether the restrictions are met, and the burden on employees in determining the eligibility for tax exemption is reduced.
[0102] Furthermore, when processing a new transaction, if tax exemption is specified, the POS terminal 100 will verify whether the tax requirements and restrictions are met after the registration of the transaction details is complete. This reduces the processing burden on the processor 101 for this verification and enables the processing related to the registration of the transaction details to be completed quickly.
[0103] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 100 can reduce the burden on store employees when applying tax exemptions for one or more transactions that have already been settled, as described above.
[0104] Furthermore, the POS terminal 100 checks whether the restriction conditions represented in the two-dimensional code read by the fixed scanner 107 are met. This eliminates the need to store the restriction conditions individually in each POS terminal 100. Moreover, since the POS terminal 100 also obtains passport information from the aforementioned two-dimensional code, it does not create an additional burden on store staff to acquire restriction information.
[0105] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows: The restrictions may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the store operator, by omitting any of the aforementioned departments, subcategories, and specific products, or by adding other appropriate conditions.
[0106] The restriction information may be stored in the POS terminal device 100, for example, by storing it in the sub-storage unit 103.
[0107] Instead of a two-dimensional code, another type of optically readable code may be used. Furthermore, a different device suitable for reading optically readable codes, such as the handheld scanner 108, may be used as the reading method.
[0108] Each function realized by the processor 101 through information processing can also be partially or entirely realized by hardware that performs non-program-based information processing, such as logic circuits. Furthermore, each of the above functions can also be realized by combining the above-mentioned hardware, such as logic circuits, with software control.
[0109] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0110] 1...Store system, 2...Tax-free server, 3...Communication network, 100...POS terminal device, 101...Processor, 102...Main memory unit, 103...Sub memory unit, 104...Input unit, 105...Display unit, 106...Sound unit, 107...Fixed scanner, 108...Handheld scanner, 109...Currency receiving unit, 110...Payment unit, 111...Printer, 112...Communication unit, 113...Transmission line, 200...Store server, 300...Tax-free terminal device, 400...Communication device, 500...Communication network.
Claims
1. Regarding transactions designated as eligible for tax exemption, the first verification method is to confirm whether the requirements for tax exemption are met, A second verification means for confirming whether tax-exempt goods among the goods subject to the aforementioned transaction meet different restriction conditions than those mentioned above, A processing means that performs a predetermined process to apply tax exemption to the transaction when it is confirmed by the first verification means that the requirements are met and the second verification means that the limiting conditions are met, A transaction processing device equipped with the following.
2. Registration means for registering the aforementioned trading product, Furthermore, The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second verification means performs a check to see if the limiting conditions are met after the registration of the transaction product relating to the transaction is completed by the registration means.
3. A determination means for determining at least one settled transaction that is designated as eligible for tax exemption. Furthermore, The first and second verification means define the transaction determined by the determination means as a transaction for which tax exemption is applied. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1.
4. A reading means for reading optically readable codes, Furthermore, The second verification means verifies whether the limiting conditions expressed in the code read by the reading means are met. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1.
5. If the second verification means cannot confirm that the restriction conditions are met, a modification means to change the tax-exempt goods in accordance with the operator's instructions, The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
6. The computer installed in the transaction processing unit Regarding transactions designated as eligible for tax exemption, the first verification method is to confirm whether the requirements for tax exemption are met, A second verification means for confirming whether tax-exempt goods among the goods subject to the aforementioned transaction meet different restriction conditions than those mentioned above, A processing means that performs a predetermined process to apply tax exemption to the transaction when it is confirmed by the first verification means that the requirements are met and the second verification means that the limiting conditions are met, An information processing program that enables a function to work.