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 2026126868000001_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] Even for products traded at stores in Japan, products consumed at embassies and the like are not subject to consumption tax. Therefore, at the store, for transactions with purchasers who meet predetermined conditions, such as embassy staff, it is necessary to take measures not to impose consumption tax, which has been a burden on store employees. Under such circumstances, it has been desired to reduce the burden on store employees involved in transactions with purchasers who are not subject to consumption tax.
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 capable of reducing the burden on store employees involved in transactions with purchasers who are not subject to consumption tax.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0005] The transaction processing device according to the embodiment includes a registration unit, a declaration receiving unit, and a setting unit. The registration unit registers a product designated as an object of a transaction as a transaction product. The declaration receiving unit receives a declaration that a purchaser related to the transaction meets predetermined conditions. The setting unit sets all tax classifications of the transaction products registered by the registration unit for the transaction in which a declaration is received by the declaration receiving unit to non-taxable.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0006] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a POS terminal device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram representing the structure of a single data record included in transaction data. [Figure 3] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 4] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 5] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 6] Transaction processing flowchart. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of a registration screen. [Figure 8] This diagram shows an example of a window displayed on the settings confirmation screen. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of a registration screen. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of a window displayed on the deactivation confirmation screen. [Figure 11] A diagram illustrating an example of a tax change screen. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0007] An example of an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal device 100 according to this embodiment. 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. The customer is the purchaser of the goods sold in the store. The POS terminal device 100 is a so-called face-to-face type, and is primarily operated by store employees. The POS terminal device 100 is installed inside the store facing the employee workspace. Customers usually wait in a designated waiting area separate from the workspace.
[0008] 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 handheld scanner 108, a currency receiving unit 109, a settlement unit 110, a printer 111, a communication unit 112, and a transmission line 113, among other things.
[0009] By connecting the processor 101, the main memory unit 102, and the sub-memory unit 103 with a transmission line 113, a computer is configured to perform information processing for controlling the POS terminal device 100. The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 101 performs information processing to control each part in order to realize various functions as a POS terminal device 100, in accordance with information processing programs such as the operating system and application programs.
[0010] The main memory unit 102 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. The main memory unit 102 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 102 stores a portion of the information processing program described above in the read-only memory area. The main memory unit 102 may also store data necessary for the processor 101 to perform processing to control 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 for the processor 101.
[0011] The sub-storage unit 103 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. The sub-storage unit 103 can utilize, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or various other well-known storage devices. The sub-storage unit 103 stores data used by the processor 101 in performing various processes and data generated by the processing performed by the processor 101. The sub-storage unit 103 may also store the above-mentioned information processing program. In this embodiment, the sub-storage unit 103 stores the 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 for processing performed by the processor 101, as described later. A portion of the storage area of the sub-storage unit 103 is used as an area for storing transaction data DAA. Transaction data DAA is data representing a list of goods that are the subject of a transaction (hereinafter referred to as transaction goods).
[0012] 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.
[0013] 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 kinds of guidance and alarms. As the sound unit 106, various well-known sound devices such as, for example, a voice synthesis device and a buzzer can be used alone or in combination.
[0014] The fixed scanner 107 has a reading window facing the operator side. The fixed scanner 107 images a product obscured in front of the reading window, and then recognizes barcode information represented by the barcode by image processing. And the fixed scanner 107 outputs the barcode information to the processor 101. Note that the fixed scanner 107 can also use other types of well-known devices that optically read a barcode by utilizing the reflection of laser light. Also, the fixed scanner 107 can use a well-known device of a type having a function of identifying a product by using object recognition technology from an image of the product itself obtained by imaging the product. The handheld scanner 108 is used by being held in the operator's hand and optically reads a barcode facing the reading port. The handheld scanner 108 outputs barcode information represented by the read barcode to the processor 101.
[0015] The currency receiving unit ********** counts the amount of coins inserted from the coin insertion slot and stores them in an internal storage. The currency receiving unit 109 discharges the coins stored in the storage to a coin tray through the coin discharge port. The currency receiving unit 109 counts the amount of banknotes inserted from the banknote insertion slot and stores them in an internal storage. The currency receiving unit 109 discharges the banknotes stored in the storage from the banknote discharge port. The banknote discharge port holds the discharged banknotes in a state where a part of them is exposed to the outside.
[0016] It should be noted that there is an unclear part in the description of the "currency receiving unit 109" in the original text where some content seems to be missing or incorrect in the provided "**********". This translation is based on the existing text as accurately as possible.The payment unit 110 reads data recorded on a payment card such as a credit card, prepaid card, or electronic money card. The payment unit 110 also writes data to the payment card. The payment unit 110 includes reading devices respectively corresponding to IC (integrated circuit) reading, magnetic reading, and proximity communication reading of a credit card. The reading device for IC reading reads data stored in an IC provided on the credit card through communication via electrical contacts. The reading device for magnetic reading reads data magnetically recorded on a 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 an IC provided on the credit card through wireless communication such as NFC (near field communication).
[0017] The printer 111 prints an image of a ticket related to a transaction such as a receipt, receipt voucher, or sales invoice on receipt paper. The printer 111 also prints an image of a ticket such as a coupon regarding the right to use a privilege. The printer 111 discharges the receipt paper on which the above image is printed to the outside from the receipt discharge port. Thus, the printer 111 has a function as an issuing device for issuing a receipt.
[0018] The communication unit 112 executes communication processing for performing data communication via a communication network. The communication unit 112 can use, for example, an existing communication device for a LAN. The transmission path 113 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc., and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected components.
[0019] 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.
[0020] Transaction Data AA contains data for managing transactions. This data includes a transaction code as a transaction identifier, or data indicating the date and time processing related to the transaction began. Furthermore, if at least one transaction product is registered, Transaction Data DAA also includes data records associated with each transaction product.
[0021] Figure 2 schematically represents the structure of a single data record REA included in the transaction data DAA. The data record REA includes fields FAA, FAB, FAC, FAD, FAE, FAF, and FAG. Field FAA is set to the product code as an identifier for the associated transaction product. Field FAB is set to the product name of the associated transaction product. Field FAC is set to the quantity of the associated transaction product. Field FAD is set to the unit price of the associated transaction product. Field FAE is set to information regarding value discounts applied to the associated transaction product. Field FAF is set to the amount to be settled for the associated transaction product. Field FAG is set to the identifier of the consumption tax category applied to the associated transaction product. Tax categories include, for example, "8% tax included," "10% tax included," "8% tax excluded," "10% tax excluded," "tax-exempt," "non-taxable," and "embassy tax exemption." Transaction data DAA is generated as appropriate by the transaction processing described later, written to the sub-storage unit 103, and updated.
[0022] 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.
[0023] The POS terminal device 100 is characterized by its ability to process exemptions from consumption tax (hereinafter referred to as "special tax exemptions") for goods consumed at an embassy located in the country where the POS terminal device 100 is used. The POS terminal device 100 also performs normal tax exemption processing for residents of countries other than the country where the POS terminal device 100 is used, but this will not be explained below.
[0024] 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 a store clerk receives goods from a customer, 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, upon receiving the predetermined operation for specifying the start of processing for a new transaction, for example, on the input unit 104, starts the transaction processing described below within the processing based on the transaction processing program PRA.
[0025] 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 transaction items. The registration screen may display, for example, a list of the names of the items that the customer is purchasing, i.e., the transaction items, the unit price of each transaction item, or the total amount of all transaction items.
[0026] Figure 7 shows an example of a registration screen. Note that the registration screen and the various screens described later illustrate some display objects while omitting the illustration of some other display objects. For example, some buttons displayed on the various screens may not be illustrated. Also, the registration screen and the various screens described later are examples and may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the person who determined the specifications for the POS terminal device 100.
[0027] The registration screen consists of an Area ARA and a Button BUA. The Area ARA displays the details of the transaction. The Area ARA contains a list of transaction items. For example, for each transaction item, the Area ARA displays the product name, quantity, unit price, discount amount, total amount, and tax category. In Figure 5, to make it easier to understand what information the Area ARA represents, it shows a situation where several transaction items have already been registered. However, the registration screen displayed when processor 101 first executes ACT1 does not yet contain any transaction items, so it does not display specific information such as the product name of the transaction items. The Button BUA is a soft key used to indicate that the registration of transaction items has ended. The Button BUA is a so-called subtotal key.
[0028] In Figure 3, as 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 applying the special tax exemption has been made. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT2. Thus, processor 101 awaits the designation of termination, modification, or special exemption as ACT2 to ACT4.
[0029] 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.
[0030] 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 updates the transaction data DAA to reflect the changes specified by the store clerk's operation. When processor 101 first executes ACT5, it generates transaction data DAA containing only the data record REA for the newly specified product and saves it to sub-storage unit 103. Alternatively, processor 101 may generate transaction data DAA containing no data records REA and save it to sub-storage unit 103 before proceeding to ACT5 for the first time. For the information to be set in the fields FAB, FAD, FAE, and FAG of the data record REA, processor 101 obtains information describing the specified product from the product master database, which is managed by a POS server (not shown) or stored in sub-storage unit 103. Thus, if the transaction product is one of many products that are normally subject to taxation, processor 101 sets information such as "8% tax included," "10% tax included," "8% tax excluded," or "10% tax excluded" in the field FAG. Furthermore, for certain tax-exempt products, processor 101 sets "tax-exempt" to field FAG.
[0031] 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. At this time, processor 101 updates the transaction data DAA 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.
[0032] If a customer wishes to apply for the special tax exemption, the store clerk can specify the special tax exemption at any time before the completion of the payment described later by performing a predetermined operation, such as pressing the key included in the input unit 104 for specifying the special tax exemption (hereinafter referred to as the embassy tax exemption key). The store clerk may also specify the special tax exemption before starting the registration of the transaction items as described above. If the special tax exemption is specified while the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT2 to ACT4, it will determine YES in ACT4 and proceed to ACT7.
[0033] As ACT7, processor 101 displays a settings confirmation screen on display unit 105. The settings confirmation screen is a screen that prompts the store clerk to confirm the application of the special tax exemption. Figure 8 shows an example of a window WIA displayed on the settings confirmation screen. For example, processor 101 may pop up a window WIA on the registration screen that was displayed immediately before, and use that as the settings confirmation screen.
[0034] The window WIA represents the area ARB and buttons BUB and BUC. The area ARB displays text messages to guide the staff through the necessary verification steps. Button BUB is a soft key to confirm the application of the special tax exemption. Button BUC is a soft key to cancel the application of the special tax exemption.
[0035] As ACT8, processor 101 checks if confirmation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT9. As ACT9, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT8. Thus, processor 101 waits for confirmation or cancellation to be specified as ACT8 and ACT9.
[0036] If the store clerk decides to cancel the application of the special tax exemption as a result of the verification process shown in area ARB, they specify the cancellation by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping button BUC. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT9 and returns to ACT1, repeating ACT1 and subsequent steps as described above.
[0037] If the store clerk confirms, based on the verification process shown in area ARB, that the customer meets the criteria for a special tax-exempt purchase, such as an embassy official, they specify confirmation by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping button BUB. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT8 and proceeds to ACT10. Receiving the above confirmation is equivalent to receiving a declaration that the purchaser meets the predetermined conditions for the transaction. Thus, by having processor 101 execute information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a means of receiving declarations.
[0038] As ACT10, processor 101 changes the tax classification of all transaction goods in bulk to make them tax-exempt. For example, processor 101 updates the FAG field of all data records REA included in transaction data DAA to "Embassy Tax Exemption". Also, processor 101 updates the FAF field of all data records REA included in transaction data DAA to an amount excluding sales tax. Thus, by having processor 101 execute information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a configuration means. If no transaction goods have been registered yet and no data records REA are included in transaction data DAA, processor 101 skips ACT10. After this, processor 101 proceeds to ACT21 in Figure 4.
[0039] As ACT21, processor 101 displays a registration screen on display unit 105 that shows the details of the transaction after the tax classification has been changed in bulk as described above. Figure 9 shows an example of a registration screen. The registration screen shown in Figure 9 is an example of what is displayed when a special tax exemption designation is made while the registration screen shown in Figure 7 is displayed. In the registration screen shown in Figure 9, the tax category for each product has been changed from "external" to "large," and the total amount has been changed to the amount excluding tax.
[0040] In Figure 4, as ACT22, 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 ACT23. As ACT23, 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 ACT24. As ACT24, processor 101 checks whether a designation has been made to cancel the application of the special tax exemption. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT22. Thus, processor 101 waits for termination, modification, or cancellation to be specified as ACT22~ACT24.
[0041] Even after designating the customer for special tax exemption, the store clerk can still perform the operation to register the goods entrusted to them by the customer as transaction items. If an operation to specify a change in the transaction details is performed, processor 101 determines YES in ACT23 and proceeds to ACT25.
[0042] As ACT25, processor 101 updates the transaction data DAA to reflect the changes specified by the store clerk's operation as described above. This process may be the same as ACT5 in Figure 3. However, in ACT25 in Figure 4, processor 101 sets the field FAG of the newly added data record REA to "Embassy" regardless of the tax classification setting in the product master database. This is also a function of the computer, with processor 101 as the central part, as a setting means.
[0043] As ACT26, processor 101 updates the registration screen to reflect the updated transaction details. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state of ACT22-ACT24. Then processor 101 repeats ACT25 and ACT26 in response to operations performed sequentially by the store clerk. At this time, processor 101 updates the transaction data DAA stored in sub-storage unit 103 as described above. This is also a function of the computer, with processor 101 as the central part, as a means of registration.
[0044] If a customer wishes to cancel the special tax exemption, the store clerk can specify the cancellation of the special tax exemption at any time before proceeding to payment, as described later, by performing a predetermined operation such as pressing the cancellation key included in the input unit 104 to specify the cancellation of the special tax exemption. If cancellation is specified while the processor 101 is in the waiting state for ACT22 to ACT24, it determines YES in ACT24 and proceeds to ACT27.
[0045] As ACT27, processor 101 displays a deactivation confirmation screen on display unit 105. The deactivation confirmation screen is a screen that prompts the store clerk to confirm that they want to cancel the special tax exemption. Figure 10 shows an example of a window WIB displayed on the cancellation confirmation screen. Processor 101 uses the previously displayed registration screen as the cancellation confirmation screen, by popping up a window WIB on top of it.
[0046] The window WIB represents the area ARC and buttons BUD and BUE. The area ARC displays a text message indicating that the embassy tax exemption is being canceled. Button BUD is a soft key to confirm the cancellation. Button BUE is a soft key to cancel the cancellation.
[0047] As ACT28, processor 101 checks if confirmation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT29. As ACT29, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT28. Thus, processor 101 waits for confirmation or cancellation to be specified as ACT28 and ACT29.
[0048] If the store clerk decides to cancel the cancellation, they specify the cancellation by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping button BUE. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT29 and returns to ACT21, repeating ACT21 and subsequent steps as described above.
[0049] If the store clerk decides to cancel the special tax exemption, they confirm it by performing a predetermined action, such as tapping button BUD. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT28 and proceeds to ACT30. As ACT30, processor 101 changes the tax classification of each transaction product in bulk in order to make all transaction products subject to taxation. For example, processor 101 updates the FAG field of all data records REA included in the transaction data DAA to the tax classification represented in the product master database. Also, for example, processor 101 updates the FAF field of data records REA for transaction products whose tax classification is inclusive of tax to the amount including consumption tax. After this, processor 101 returns to ACT1 in Figure 3 and repeats ACT1 and subsequent steps as described above.
[0050] Once the store clerk has finished registering the transaction details, designating each item entrusted by the customer as a transaction item, they specify the end of registration by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the button BUA displayed on the registration screen. This specification is what is known as a subtotal declaration. If the end of registration is specified while the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT2 to ACT4 in Figure 3, it determines YES in ACT2 and proceeds to ACT31 in Figure 5. As ACT31, 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.
[0051] As ACT32, 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 ACT33. As ACT33, 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 ACT34. As ACT34, processor 101 checks whether the special tax exemption has been designated. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT32. Thus, processor 101 awaits the designation of either return, settlement transition, or special tax exemption as ACT32-ACT34.
[0052] If the store clerk needs to change the registered information, 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 ACT32 and returns to ACT1 in Figure 3, and repeats the subsequent processing as described above.
[0053] If the customer does not wish to apply for the special tax exemption, the store clerk will ask the customer about their preferred payment method. Before or after this, the 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 ACT33 and proceed to ACT35.
[0054] As ACT35, the processor 101 displays a selection screen on the 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.
[0055] As ACT36, 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 processor 101 completes the settlement, it proceeds to ACT37. The specific process for settling the payment may be the same as that used in existing similar POS terminal devices. Processor 101 also creates printable data for a transaction receipt that shows the transaction details 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.
[0056] As ACT37, processor 101 issues a transaction receipt for the current transaction. For example, processor 101 sends the print data created in ACT36 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. Processor 101 terminates this transaction process upon completion of ACT37.
[0057] If the customer wishes to apply for the special tax exemption and has not specified the application of the special tax exemption while the registration screen is displayed, the store clerk can specify the application of the special tax exemption even while the first confirmation screen is displayed. Then, when the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT32 to ACT34 and the application of the special tax exemption is specified, it determines YES in ACT34 and proceeds to ACT38.
[0058] As ACT38, processor 101 displays a configuration confirmation screen, similar to ACT7 in Figure 3. The store clerk will perform the same operations as described above if processor 101 displays the settings confirmation screen in ACT7.
[0059] In Figure 4, as ACT39, processor 101 checks whether confirmation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT40. As ACT40, processor 101 checks if cancellation has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT39. Thus, processor 101 waits for confirmation or cancellation to be specified as ACT39 and ACT40.
[0060] If cancellation is specified by a predetermined operation, processor 101 determines YES in ACT40 and returns to ACT31, and repeats ACT31 onwards in the same manner as described above. If confirmation is specified by a predetermined operation, processor 101 determines YES in ACT39 and proceeds to ACT41. As ACT41, processor 101 changes the tax category of each transaction item to "Embassy Tax Exemption" in the same way as ACT10 in Figure 3. After this, processor 101 proceeds to ACT51 in Figure 6.
[0061] On the other hand, if the processor 101 is in the waiting state of ACT22 to ACT24 in Figure 4 with the application of special tax exemption specified, and the termination of registration is specified, it will determine YES in ACT22 and proceed to ACT51 in Figure 6. As ACT51, processor 101 displays the tax change screen on display unit 105. The tax change screen is a screen for receiving instructions to change transaction products that are subject to special tax exemption to be subject to taxation.
[0062] Figure 11 shows an example of a tax change screen. The tax change screen shown in Figure 11 is an example of what happens when the processor 101 proceeds to ACT51 in Figure 6 in response to a termination instruction being made while the registration screen shown in Figure 9 is displayed.
[0063] The tax change screen consists of the areas ARB, ARC, and the button BUF. Area ARB, like area ARA, displays the details of the transaction. Area ARC displays text messages guiding the staff on what they need to do. Button BUG is a soft key used to indicate that the changes are finished.
[0064] As ACT52, processor 101 checks if the product has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT53. As ACT53, processor 101 checks if termination has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT52. Thus, processor 101 waits for a product or termination to be specified as ACT52 and ACT53.
[0065] If the store clerk's transaction includes items that are not eligible for special tax exemption, they specify these items by performing a predetermined operation, such as scanning the product barcode with the fixed scanner 107 or the handheld scanner 108. In response, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT 52 and proceeds to ACT 54.
[0066] As ACT54, processor 101 updates the transaction data DAA to make the specified goods subject to taxation. For example, processor 101 finds data record REA in the transaction data DAA where the product code of the specified goods is set in field FAA. Then, processor 101 rewrites field FAF of the corresponding data record REA to the amount including tax, and rewrites field FAG to the tax classification in the product master database. Thus, by having processor 101 execute information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a designation receiving means and a modification means.
[0067] As ACT55, processor 101 updates the tax change screen so that the area ARB reflects the contents of the updated transaction data DAA. After this, processor 101 returns to the waiting state for ACT52 and ACT53. Thus, the store clerk changes each of the items that are not subject to the special tax exemption from the initially collectively tax-exempt items to be subject to taxation. After completing these changes, the store clerk indicates termination by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the button BUG. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT53 and proceeds to ACT56. As ACT56, 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.
[0068] As ACT57, processor 101 checks if a return is specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT58. As ACT58, processor 101 checks if a transition to payment has been specified. If processor 101 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT57. Thus, processor 101 waits for a return or settlement transition to be specified as ACT57 and ACT58.
[0069] If there are still items that need to be changed to tax, the store clerk will specify a return by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the return button provided as a soft key on the second confirmation screen. In response, the processor 101 determines YES in ACT57 and returns to the waiting state of ACT52 and ACT53.
[0070] If the store clerk decides to settle the transaction as shown in the current transaction data DAA, they specify the transition to settlement by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping the settlement button provided as a soft key on the second confirmation screen. In response, processor 101 determines YES in ACT58 and proceeds to ACT59.
[0071] The processor 101 then executes ACT59, ACT60, and ACT61 in the same manner as ACT35 to ACT37 in Figure 5. The processor 101 then terminates the transaction processing upon completion of ACT61. However, in ACT60, the processor 101 calculates the settlement amount for each transaction product, determining whether it is taxable or tax-exempt according to the tax classification set in the transaction data DAA, and settles this settlement amount. In other words, by executing information processing based on the transaction processing program PRA, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as both a calculation means and a settlement means.
[0072] As described above, the POS terminal 100 registers the goods designated as the subject of a transaction for which special tax exemption is applied as goods eligible for special tax exemption. Thus, store employees do not need to perform the operation of specifying the application of special tax exemption for each individual goods eligible for special tax exemption. This reduces the burden on store employees when dealing with embassy staff who are purchasers and are not subject to consumption tax.
[0073] Furthermore, the POS terminal 100 accepts the designation for special tax exemption even while the registration of transaction items is in progress, and registers the designated items as transaction items eligible for special tax exemption after the designation is made. This means that even if a customer requests special tax exemption after the registration of transaction items has begun, the store clerk only needs to designate the application of special tax exemption at an appropriate time during the registration process.
[0074] Furthermore, the POS terminal 100 accepts the designation for special tax exemption even while the transaction products are being registered, and changes all transaction products that were previously registered as taxable to be eligible for special tax exemption at once. As a result, store employees do not need to perform any operations to change transaction products that have already been registered as taxable to be eligible for special tax exemption.
[0075] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 100 changes the designated transaction items to be subject to taxation after the registration of the transaction items is completed. Therefore, in transactions where transaction items eligible for special tax exemption and transaction items that are not eligible for special tax exemption are mixed, it is possible to properly process only the transaction items that are not eligible for special tax exemption as subject to taxation.
[0076] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows: Processor 101 may change the status of registered transaction items to be eligible for special tax exemption, either collectively or on an item-by-item basis, as specified separately by the store clerk, for items that were registered before the special tax exemption was designated.
[0077] The conditions for a purchaser to be designated for special tax exemption of processor 101 may be determined as appropriate by the person who determined the specifications of POS terminal device 100, etc.
[0078] The payment terminal may perform either the processing for settling the payment amount, or both the calculation of the payment amount and the processing for settling it. In this case, the processor 101 does not need to perform the processing that would be performed by the payment terminal.
[0079] The tax category used to identify items eligible for special tax exemption is "Embassy Tax Exemption," but any other appropriate tax category that clearly indicates exemption from taxation, such as "Tax-Exempt," may be used.
[0080] 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.
[0081] 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]
[0082] 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.
Claims
1. A registration method for registering a product designated as the subject of a transaction as a trading product, A means of receiving a declaration that the buyer in the aforementioned transaction will meet predetermined conditions, A setting means for setting all tax classifications of transaction products registered by the registration means to be tax-exempt with respect to a transaction for which the declaration has been received by the declaration receiving means, A transaction processing device equipped with the following.
2. The setting means sets the tax classification of goods registered by the registration means to taxable before the declaration is received by the declaration receiving means, and sets the tax classification of goods registered by the registration means to non-taxable after the declaration is received by the declaration receiving means. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1.
3. The setting means changes the tax classification of the goods registered by the registration means before the declaration is received by the declaration receiving means to non-taxable in accordance with the declaration being received by the declaration receiving means. The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 2.
4. When the declaration has been received by the declaration receiving means, after the registration of the trading product by the registration means is completed, a designation receiving means for receiving designation of a trading product whose tax classification will be changed to taxable, Once a designation is obtained through the aforementioned designation means, a means for changing the tax classification of the designated trading product to taxable, The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
5. A calculation means for calculating the settlement amount associated with the buying and selling of all trading products registered by the aforementioned registration means for a single transaction, without adding consumption tax for trading products whose tax classification is set to non-taxable, A settlement means for settling the settlement amount calculated by the calculation means, The transaction processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
6. The computer installed in the transaction processing unit A registration method for registering a product designated as the subject of a transaction as a trading product, A means of receiving a declaration that the buyer in the aforementioned transaction will meet predetermined conditions, A setting means for setting all tax classifications of transaction products registered by the registration means to be tax-exempt with respect to a transaction for which the declaration has been received by the declaration receiving means, An information processing program that enables a function to work.