Merchandise sales data processing device, merchandising sales data processing method, and program

Abstract

To efficiently manage achievement of a clerk.SOLUTION: A commodity sales data processing device includes mode control means and storage control means. The mode control means allows a clerk to perform registration operation of a commodity purchased by a customer, and controls the device to enter one operation mode of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode in which the customer performs a settlement operation for the purchased commodity and a second operation mode in which the customer performs a settlement operation based on the registration operation performed at another device. The storage control means in the first operation mode stores clerk identification information for the clerk who has performed the registration operation in association with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the first operation mode, and it in the second operation mode stores clerk identification information for the clerk who has performed the registration operation at another device in association with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the second operation mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a product sales data processing device, a product sales data processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets, POS (Point Of Sales) registers are used to register products purchased by customers and to settle the bill. For such POS registers, so-called self-checkout registers, in which a store clerk registers products and the customer settles the bill, are widespread. For example, a POS register is known that can be switched between a first operation mode in which a store clerk registers products and the customer settles the bill, and a second operation mode in which the customer registers products and settles the bill.

[0003] A related technology is known in which a registered payment device waits for the input of store clerk identification information when an instruction to switch from a second operating mode to a first operating mode is given, and when the store clerk identification information is input, updates specific information stored in a store clerk memory unit to the input store clerk identification information (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-017160 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the conventional technology has a problem in that it is not possible to tally up the operation of each store clerk for each operation mode, and therefore it is not possible to efficiently manage the performance of each store clerk.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique that enables efficient management of sales clerk performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing device comprising: a mode control means for controlling an operation mode to one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode in which a store clerk performs a registration operation for products purchased by a customer and the customer performs a settlement operation for the purchased products, and a second operation mode in which the customer performs a settlement operation based on the registration operation performed on another device; and a storage control means for storing, in the first operation mode, store clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation and transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the first operation mode in association with each other, and for storing, in the second operation mode, store clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation on the other device and transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the second operation mode in association with each other. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a POS terminal 20. [Diagram 3] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a POS terminal 20. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a POS terminal 20. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of operation in a normal mode. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining an overview of the operation in the transaction-only mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of the operation in a full self mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation authority table 800 showing operation authority for each store clerk. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a transaction information table showing transaction information. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the POS terminal 20 at startup. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the POS terminal 20 in a normal mode. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the POS terminal 20 in a transaction-only mode. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the POS terminal 20 in a full self-service mode. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the POS terminal 20 during store clerk support in the self-service mode. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a receipt issuing process performed by the POS terminal 20. [Figure 16] An example of a receipt output by the POS terminal 20 will now be described. [Figure 17] An example of a receipt output by the POS terminal 20 will now be described. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a tally table 1800 showing a tally of work by operation mode for each store clerk. [Figure 19] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a tallying process performed by the POS terminal 20. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen and a meal ticket in ticket vending machine mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] (Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes three POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-3, a store controller (store computer, management device) 10, and a monitoring terminal 11. Hereinafter, the POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-3 will be collectively referred to as the POS terminal 20 when there is no particular distinction between them. The store controller 10, the monitoring terminal 11, and the POS terminal 20 are communicatively connected via a LAN 55. Note that, although the number of POS terminals 20 in the POS system 1 is three, it may be one, or four or more.

[0010] The POS system 1 can be installed in various stores, such as supermarkets, home centers, convenience stores, and various supply stores. The store controller 10 manages various information such as product types and prices, inventory status, sales history, deposit and withdrawal records, and member information in the store. The monitoring terminal 11 displays the status of the POS terminal 20 (operation mode, processing status, etc.) and controls the POS terminal 20. The POS terminal 20 is a register that registers products and settles accounts.

[0011] The POS system 1 may also include a mobile terminal carried by a store clerk. The mobile terminal can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal 20 and control the POS terminal 20. The mobile terminal can also notify a store clerk to be called based on an instruction from the POS terminal 20.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the POS terminal 20. FIG. 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. FIG. 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in FIG. 2(A), a counter is placed on the right side of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Note that the counter may also be placed on the left side of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side in FIG. 2(A). In other words, the counter may be placed on both sides of the POS terminal 20. A shopping basket can be placed on the counter.

[0013] The POS terminal 20 also includes a sign pole 220. The sign pole 220 includes a lighting unit. The lighting unit can be lit, for example, in a predetermined color or in a predetermined flashing manner. The sign pole 220 is provided so as to extend upward so that the lighting unit is disposed at a high position. This allows even store clerks who are not near the POS terminal 20 to recognize the lighting mode of the lighting unit.

[0014] Next, the configuration of the POS terminal 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the POS terminal 20. Fig. 3(A) is a front view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Fig. 3(B) is a front view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the store clerk side. Fig. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the POS terminal 20. In Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the same parts are given the same reference numerals.

[0015] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20 shown in Fig. 4 will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. The POS terminal 20 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a hard disk 204, a customer display unit 205, a customer scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change dispenser 209, a store clerk display unit 210, a key operation unit 211, a store clerk scanner unit 212, a printing unit 213, an audio output unit 214, a communication unit 215, and a camera 216. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0016] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the POS terminal 20 by reading and executing various programs stored in the ROM 202. The various programs include a product sales data processing program according to this embodiment. The ROM 202 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 201, including programs.

[0017] The RAM 203 is a readable and writable memory, and stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores information acquired from the outside (for example, a product master acquired from the store controller 10) and information generated during processing. This information is, for example, registration information generated during a registration process for registering a product, and settlement information generated during a settlement process for settling (paying) the registered product (registered product).

[0018] Hard disk 204 stores various information. For example, hard disk 204 stores imaging results (e.g., video) captured by camera 216. Hard disk 204 may store programs executed by CPU 201, instead of ROM 202. Also, hard disk 204 may store information acquired from the outside and information generated during processing, instead of RAM 203.

[0019] The customer display unit 205 is a touch display for customers. The customer display unit 205 displays various information to customers and accepts various inputs from customers. The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers, and optically reads various information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 206 optically reads barcodes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on bills (registered trademarks). In addition to the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may read codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, and complimentary coupons) and various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.). Note that product registration is not limited to registration by reading codes by the customer-side scanner unit 206. For example, a preset key (a button for ordering a product) corresponding to a product may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205, and the product may be registered by operating (pressing) the preset key by the customer.

[0020] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism using various cards. The various cards include credit cards, prepaid cards such as electronic money, and point cards. A monetary amount (balance) is stored (charged) in the prepaid cards. The card payment unit 208 includes a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit. The card recognition unit magnetically or electrically reads information from various cards. The read information is used to settle the registered goods. The card recognition unit is also capable of recognizing information to be used in settling the registered goods this time, for example, when using points held on a point card. The card recognition unit is also capable of recognizing information that is not used in settling the registered goods this time, for example, when points are awarded to a point card.

[0021] In addition, the card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit, but is not limited thereto and may include at least a card recognition unit. In addition, the card recognition unit of this embodiment may be compatible with contact cards (IC cards, magnetic cards) or non-contact cards (IC cards).

[0022] The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a mechanism for settlement using cash, and has an input port for banknotes and coins, and an output port for banknotes and coins. The change machine 209 calculates the amount inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the input amount and the purchase amount, and outputs the change from the output port. The change machine 209 faces the customer side, and accepts various operations and cash insertion from customers. The change machine 209 has a sensor that detects banknotes and coins inserted into the input port. The sensor detects that banknotes and coins have been inserted into the input port, and detects the number of banknotes by denomination.

[0023] The store clerk display unit 210 is a touch display for the store clerk. The store clerk display unit 210 displays various information to the store clerk and receives various inputs from the store clerk.

[0024] The key operation unit 211 includes various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 accepts various inputs from the store clerk. Specifically, the key operation unit 211 includes a mode switching button 211a, a collective switching button 211b, and a checkout-only mode switching button 211c. The mode switching button 211a is a button for switching the operation mode, which will be described later. The collective switching button 211b is a button for switching the operation mode of all the POS terminals 20 collectively, by being operated on a specific POS terminal 20 (for example, a POS terminal 20 to which a store manager or the like is logged in). The checkout-only mode switching button 211c is a button for switching to the "checkout-only mode", which will be described later.

[0025] The mode switching button 211a is a button that can switch the operation mode of the destination in a predetermined order each time it is pressed. This order is preset, for example, as normal mode → full self-service mode → accounting-only mode → normal mode → .... Therefore, to switch from the normal mode to the accounting-only mode, the store clerk needs to press the mode switching button 211a twice. When switching to the normal mode, the store clerk identification information needs to be input, and switching to the normal mode is permitted when the store clerk indicated by the input store clerk identification information is authorized to operate the registration operation. In addition, the operation mode of the mode switching button 211a may include the maintenance mode, or a separate button for switching to the maintenance mode may be provided.

[0026] The button for switching the operation mode is not limited to a hard key (mechanical key) such as the mode switching button 211a, but may be a selection button (soft key) displayed on the store clerk display unit 210. This selection button may, for example, display a number of buttons corresponding to the operation mode to which the mode is to be switched. Specifically, if the current operation mode is the normal mode, a button for switching to the checkout-only mode and a button for switching to the full self-service mode may be displayed. This makes it possible to switch the operation mode with a single touch. In other words, the store clerk does not need to press a button multiple times, but only needs to press the button for the operation mode to which the mode is to be switched.

[0027] However, the selection button displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 may be a single button, similar to the mode switching button 211a, which can switch to a destination operation mode in a predetermined order each time it is pressed.

[0028] Furthermore, the button for switching the operation mode is generally displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, but may also be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. For example, when it is determined that a clerk is clearly on the customer side, it is also possible to display the button on the customer-side display unit 205. Examples of situations in which a clerk is clearly on the customer side include when the customer-side scanner unit 206 is used to transition to a clerk-only maintenance screen (maintenance mode), or when the customer-side display unit 205 is operated to transition to a clerk-only maintenance screen.

[0029] The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for store clerks, and optically reads various information. For example, the store clerk scanner unit 212 optically reads barcodes attached to products and store clerk codes attached to store clerk nametags. In addition to the above, the store clerk scanner unit 212 may also read codes printed on bills, gift certificates, and various cards.

[0030] The registration of a product is not limited to registration by reading a code using the store clerk scanner unit 212. For example, a key corresponding to a product (e.g., a key corresponding to a sports newspaper) may be arranged on the key operation unit 211, and the product may be registered by the store clerk operating (pressing) the key. The POS terminal 20 may also display a preset key corresponding to a product on the store clerk display unit 210, and the product may be registered by the store clerk operating the preset key.

[0031] The printing unit 213 prints and outputs various media (receipts, invoices, bills, etc.). The printing unit 213 is capable of changing the direction of the medium issuing port. Specifically, the printing unit 213 has a rotatable mechanism, and is configured so that the medium issuing port faces from the store clerk side to the customer side, and from the customer side to the store clerk side. The orientation of the medium issuing port may be changeable manually, or may be changeable automatically in response to switching of the operating mode. The printing unit 213 may be equipped with a sensor that detects whether the orientation of the printing issuing port is correct.

[0032] The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance, warning sounds, etc. The audio guidance and warning sounds relate to, for example, product registration and payment. The communication unit 215 is an interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from other devices (the store controller 10, the monitoring terminal 11, and other POS terminals 20).

[0033] The camera 216 is a camera that continuously captures moving images or still images. A CCD (charge coupled device) camera or a CMOS (charge coupled device) camera can be used as the camera 216. The camera 216 captures, for example, the operation status of a customer at the time of payment. Specifically, the camera 216 captures images of bills and coins held by the customer, the change dispenser 209, hand movements, and the like. The camera 216 also captures images of the operation status of a customer at the time of registering a product. Specifically, the camera 216 can capture images of the inside (products) of a shopping basket on a counter provided on both sides of the POS terminal 20, and the operation status of a customer at the time of registration.

[0034] (Overview of each operation mode) Next, the operation modes of the POS terminal 20 will be described. The POS terminal 20 operates in one of a plurality of operation modes. The plurality of operation modes are operation modes during normal business (operation modes related to registration processing and settlement processing). Specifically, the plurality of operation modes are, for example, a normal mode (face-to-face self-service mode), a checkout-only mode, a full self-service mode, and a maintenance mode. Note that, below, the checkout-only mode and the full self-service mode may be collectively referred to as "self-service modes."

[0035] (Normal mode) The normal mode is an operation mode in which the clerk's side product registration (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "product registration") is enabled and the customer's side product registration is disabled. In other words, the normal mode is an operation mode in which the clerk's side registration process is executed without executing the customer's side registration process. In the clerk's side product registration, the product registration process is executed using the clerk's side scanner unit 212, the clerk's side display unit 210, and the key operation unit 211. In addition, in the normal mode, a settlement process is executed in which currency (banknotes and coins) is inserted and various cards are read. In addition, in the normal mode, it is possible to start the settlement process (for example, to accept the insertion of currency) while the product registration process is being executed.

[0036] In the normal mode, the registration information can be transmitted to another POS terminal 20. Transmitting the registration information to another POS terminal 20 means transmitting the registration information generated in the registration process to another POS terminal 20 capable of executing the settlement process (for example, a POS terminal 20 in a checkout-only mode). The registration information may be transmitted directly from the POS terminal 20 to the other POS terminal 20, or may be transmitted indirectly to the other POS terminal 20 via another device such as the store controller 10 or the monitoring terminal 11. In the following description, the transmission and reception of information between the devices is not specifically described, but the information may be transmitted directly between the devices that transmit and receive the information, or may be transmitted indirectly via another device.

[0037] In the normal mode, it is also possible to issue a receipt. Issuing a receipt means that the registration information generated in the registration process is coded and printed on a print medium (sheet). By reading the receipt with another POS terminal 20, it is possible to carry out the settlement process at the other POS terminal 20.

[0038] (Accounting only mode) The accounting-only mode is an operating mode in which product registration by the store clerk and the customer is disabled. Specifically, the accounting-only mode is an operating mode in which the settlement process can be performed using registration information received from another POS terminal 20 (a POS terminal 20 in normal mode) or registration information obtained by reading a receipt. In the settlement process, the insertion of currency (banknotes and coins) and the reading of various cards are enabled. Note that, since product registration is disabled in the accounting-only mode, the sending of registration information to other POS terminals 20 and the issuance of receipts are also disabled.

[0039] (Full self mode) The full self-service mode is an operation mode in which product registration by the store clerk is disabled and product registration by the customer is enabled. In the customer's product registration, product registration is performed using the customer scanner unit 206 and the customer display unit 205. In the full self-service mode, it is also possible to perform settlement processing at the terminal itself. Specifically, in the full self-service mode, it is possible to accept the insertion of currency (banknotes and coins) and the reading of various cards. In the full self-service mode, the sending of registration information to other POS terminals 20 and the issuance of bills are disabled. In the full self-service mode, like the bill-only mode, it is also possible to enable the reception of registration information from other POS terminals 20 and the reading of bills, and to perform settlement processing using the registration information obtained by the reception or reading.

[0040] (Maintenance mode) The maintenance mode is an operation mode in which a store clerk or a maintenance technician performs setting work, maintenance work, etc. The maintenance mode is also an operation mode in which a store clerk performs registration operations and settlement operations to support a customer in the self-service mode.

[0041] (Other operation modes) In addition to the above operation modes, the POS terminal 20 has other operation modes such as a tallying mode and a training mode. The tallying mode is a mode for tallying and inquiring sales and inventory. The training mode is an operation mode for training new store clerks.

[0042] (About enabling and disabling various functions) In the above description, it has been explained that the various functions (clerk's product registration, customer's product registration, inserting coins, reading the bill, etc.) of the POS terminal 20 are enabled or disabled depending on the operation mode. In other words, it has been explained that the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is set by disabling some of all the functions of the POS terminal 20.

[0043] However, it is sufficient that the POS terminal 20 has different executable functions for each operation mode. In other words, the POS terminal 20 does not necessarily have all the functions. For example, the POS terminal 20 may obtain a program for realizing a function required for each operation mode from an external device (e.g., the store controller 10, the monitoring terminal 11, an external server, etc.) and make it executable, and when the POS terminal 20 holds a program for realizing an unnecessary function for each operation mode, it may make the program inexecutable (e.g., erased).

[0044] The POS terminal 20 may disable some or all of the various functions originally provided depending on the operation mode. For example, when switching the operation mode, the POS terminal 20 may extract some programs for realizing unnecessary functions and make the programs inexecutable. For example, when switching the operation mode, the POS terminal 20 may temporarily make all programs inexecutable, regardless of the operation mode to which the operation mode is to be switched. After disabling some or all of the programs, the POS terminal 20 may acquire programs from the outside to realize functions required in the operation mode to which the operation mode is to be switched and make the programs executable.

[0045] (About operation in each operation mode) Next, the operation in each operation mode will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0046] (Normal mode operation) Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of the operation in the normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processing and the operation of people (store clerks, customers) in the normal mode. As shown in the upper part of Fig. 5, in the normal mode, the POS terminal 20 accepts operations by the store clerk using the store clerk scanner unit 212, the store clerk display unit 210, and the key operation unit 211, and performs product registration.

[0047] When the store clerk has completed product registration, the POS terminal 20 displays the total price of the registered products and the like on the customer display unit 205. Then, as shown in the lower part of Fig. 5, the customer checks the total price of the registered products displayed on the customer display unit 205 and makes a payment. Specifically, the customer makes a payment by inserting cash into the change machine 209 or by operating the card payment unit 208.

[0048] In this way, in the normal mode, the POS terminal 20 can execute the settlement process by the customer's operation. Also, the POS terminal 20 can accept the selection of the settlement type (payment method) from the customer before the registration process is completed.

[0049] In addition, in the normal mode, the POS terminal 20 can also register the next customer's product even before the customer completes the payment process (even before the change is taken out or the receipt is printed). In other words, the POS terminal 20 can register the next customer's product while the payment process is being performed at the terminal (lower part of FIG. 5). Also, the store clerk may not be present when the customer is performing the payment process (lower part of FIG. 5). In other words, the store clerk may finish serving the customer while the customer is performing the payment process.

[0050] Furthermore, in order to prevent change from being forgotten, the POS terminal 20 may issue a receipt after the change is taken out if there is change. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 may be provided with a sensor for detecting the change and change tag, and after controlling the dispensing of the change and change tag, may control the printing unit 213 to issue a receipt when the sensor detects that the change and change tag have been taken out. This makes it possible to prevent change from being forgotten. Note that in other operation modes as well, a receipt may be issued after the change is taken out in a similar manner.

[0051] In addition, the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode can also transmit registration information to the POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode and issue accounting tickets. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode can only register products and not perform accounting processing (face-to-face accounting).

[0052] (Accounting only mode operation) Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of the operation in the transaction-only mode. Fig. 6 explains the case where the POS terminal 20-1 is in the normal mode (registered POS terminal 20a) and the POS terminals 20-2 and 20-3 are in the transaction-only mode (settlement POS terminal 20b).

[0053] As shown in the upper part of Fig. 6, in the normal mode POS terminal 20-1 (registration POS terminal 20a), product registration is performed by the store clerk, similarly to the upper part of Fig. 5. Also, when product registration is being performed by the store clerk in the POS terminal 20-1, the POS terminals 20-2 and 20-3 (payment POS terminal 20b) are in a standby state.

[0054] When the store clerk has completed product registration, the registration POS terminal 20a transmits registration information to the settlement POS terminal 20b, which is controlled in a settlement-only mode. For example, the registration POS terminal 20a accepts designation of the settlement POS terminal 20b (either the POS terminal 20-2 or the POS terminal 20-3 in the example of FIG. 6) from the store clerk. Alternatively, the registration POS terminal 20a accepts issuance of a bill to be read by the settlement POS terminal 20b.

[0055] When the settlement POS terminal 20b receives the registration information from the registration POS terminal 20a or reads the code on the bill, it displays the total price of the registered products and the like on the customer side display unit 205. Then, as shown in the lower part of Fig. 6, the customer moves to the settlement POS terminal 20b, checks the total price of the registered products displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the settlement POS terminal 20b, and performs settlement. Specifically, the customer inserts cash into the change machine 209 of the settlement POS terminal 20b, or operates the card settlement unit 208 to perform settlement.

[0056] The registration POS terminal 20a can also perform face-to-face settlement. That is, the registration POS terminal 20a can also function in normal mode. After the registration POS terminal 20a designates the settlement POS terminal 20b or issues a bill, it can register the product of the next customer (lower part of FIG. 6). Furthermore, the store clerk may not be present after designating the settlement POS terminal 20b.

[0057] (Full self mode operation) Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of the operation of the full self-service mode. As shown in the upper part of Fig. 7, in the full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 accepts operations by the customer using the customer-side display unit 205 and the customer-side scanner unit 206, and the customer registers the product.

[0058] When the customer has completed product registration, the POS terminal 20 displays the total price of the purchased products, etc., on the customer display unit 205. Then, as shown in the lower part of Fig. 7, the customer checks the total price of the registered products displayed on the customer display unit 205 and settles the bill (lower part of Fig. 7). Specifically, the customer deposits cash into the change machine 209 or operates the card payment unit 208 to settle the bill. Thus, in the full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 registers products and settles the bill through the customer's operations.

[0059] (Regarding operation authority for each store clerk) Fig. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation authority table 800 showing operation authority for each store clerk. As shown in Fig. 8, the operation authority table 800 includes the fields of "store clerk identification information", "store clerk name", "operation authority", and "presence of authority". "Store clerk identification information" is information for identifying a store clerk. "Store clerk name" is the name of the store clerk.

[0060] "Operation authority" is the operation authority that a store clerk can perform, and includes, for example, "registration," "customer support," "discount," "returns," "deposit," and "sales collection." "Registration," for example, is the operation authority indicating that registration operations can be performed in normal mode. "Customer support" is, for example, the operation authority indicating that payment operations are supported in checkout-only mode, or that registration operations and payment operations are supported in full self-service mode. "Discount" is, for example, the operation authority indicating that discounts on products can be made. "Returns" is, for example, the operation authority indicating that returns can be accepted. "Deposit" is, for example, the authority to perform deposit operations. "Sales collection" is the operation authority indicating that sales collection operations can be performed. "Presence or absence of authority" indicates, for example, the presence or absence of each operation authority.

[0061] As an example, "clerk identification information: 0001" is assigned to "clerk name: Teraoka Taro." "Teraoka Taro" is not authorized to perform "discounts" or "sales collection" as "operational authority," but is authorized for all other operations. "Clerk identification information: 0004" is assigned to "clerk name: Terada Shiro." "Terada Shiro" is authorized to perform only "customer support" as "operational authority," but is not authorized for any other operations. For example, this indicates that "Terada Shiro" is an apprentice clerk who is not authorized to perform registration or startup operations. This also indicates that the "store manager" has all operational authority.

[0062] Note that the items of "operation authority" shown in the operation authority table 800 are merely examples, and other items may be included. For example, there may be an operation authority indicating that currency exchange from a customer is possible, an operation authority indicating that settlement with gift certificates is possible, and the like.

[0063] (Functional configuration of POS terminal 20) Next, a functional configuration of the POS terminal 20 will be described. The POS terminal 20 of this embodiment includes a mode control unit, a storage control unit, a setting unit, an input unit, a permission unit, and an output unit. The mode control unit controls the operation mode to one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode and a second operation mode.

[0064] The first operation mode is, for example, a normal mode. Specifically, the first operation mode is an operation mode in which a store clerk performs a registration operation of a product purchased by a customer (hereinafter referred to as a "registered product"), and the customer performs a settlement operation for the registered product. The second operation mode is, for example, a mode dedicated to accounting. Specifically, the second operation mode is an operation mode in which the customer performs a settlement operation based on a registration operation performed on another device. The other device is another POS terminal 20 (registered POS terminal 20a) controlled in the normal mode.

[0065] In the first operation mode, the storage control unit associates the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the first operation mode (hereinafter referred to as "mode transaction identification information") and stores them in a storage unit such as the RAM 203. In the second operation mode, the storage control unit associates the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the second operation mode and stores them in a storage unit such as the RAM 203.

[0066] The mode transaction identification information is, for example, information that identifies a transaction and indicates the operating mode when the transaction was performed. The mode transaction identification information is also associated with information on the time required for one transaction (hereinafter referred to as "transaction operation time"). In normal mode, the transaction operation time is, for example, the time from the start of product registration to the completion of settlement processing. In normal mode, when registration information is output, such as when sending registration information to another POS terminal 20 (settlement POS terminal 20b) or when issuing a bill, the transaction operation time may be the time from the start of product registration to the output of registration information.

[0067] The time required for one transaction is, for example, in the checkout-only mode, the time from when the customer accepts an instruction to start checkout by pressing the customer-side display unit 205, etc., until the checkout process is completed. The time required for one transaction is, for example, in the full self-service mode, the time from when the customer accepts an instruction to start a registration operation by pressing the customer-side display unit 205, etc., until the checkout process is completed. The time required for one transaction is, for example, in the support mode described below, the time from when the clerk accepts an instruction to start a support operation by inputting clerk identification information, etc., until the support operation is completed. The POS terminal 20 stores the clerk identification information and the mode transaction identification information in association with each other, thereby making it possible to obtain the transaction operating time of each clerk for each operation mode.

[0068] The multiple operation modes also include a third operation mode. The third operation mode is, for example, a full self mode. Specifically, the third operation mode is an operation mode in which both the registration operation and the settlement operation are performed by the customer. In the third operation mode, the storage control unit stores mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the third operation mode in a storage unit such as the RAM 203. The mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the third operation mode is associated with information on the transaction operating time. Therefore, by storing the mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the third operation mode, it is possible to obtain the transaction operating time in the third operation mode.

[0069] The input unit inputs the clerk identification information. Specifically, the input unit inputs the clerk identification information by accepting operational input of the clerk identification information from the clerk using the clerk-side display unit 210 and the key operation unit 211. However, the clerk identification information may be written as a barcode (clerk code) on an employee ID card or a name tag, or may be stored in an IC tag on the employee ID card or name tag. In this case, the input unit may input the clerk identification information by having the clerk-side scanner unit 212 read the clerk code or the IC tag.

[0070] The setting unit pre-sets the operation authority that each store clerk can operate in each operation mode. The operation authority is, for example, an operation authority indicating that a registration operation can be performed in the normal mode, an operation authority indicating that customer support can be performed in the self-service mode, and the like. The operation authority also includes an operation authority indicating that a discount can be performed, an operation authority indicating that sales can be tallied, and the like, such as an operation authority for collecting sales. The operation authority is set by an administrator (e.g., a store manager) according to, for example, whether the store clerk is a trainee or a veteran store clerk.

[0071] The permission unit permits an operation with the operation authority set in the setting unit based on the sales clerk identification information input to the input unit. For example, if the sales clerk does not have the operation authority to register a product, specifically, if the sales clerk is an apprentice, the permission unit does not permit the sales clerk to operate the product registration. On the other hand, if the sales clerk has the authority to register a product, specifically, if the sales clerk is a veteran, the permission unit permits the sales clerk to operate the product registration.

[0072] The storage control unit stores the clerk identification information input to the input unit in association with mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed with the operating authority permitted by the permission unit in a storage unit such as the RAM 203. The mode transaction identification information is associated with transaction operating time information. Therefore, by storing the mode transaction identification information, it is possible to obtain, for each clerk, the transaction operating time performed with the operating authority permitted by the permission unit in each operation mode.

[0073] In addition, the mode control means can control the second and third operation modes to a support mode (e.g., a maintenance mode) for supporting customers. Specifically, the support mode is a maintenance mode for supporting accounting processing in the accounting-only mode, and a maintenance mode for supporting registration processing and accounting processing in the full self-service mode.

[0074] In the support mode, the storage control unit stores in a storage unit such as the RAM 203, in association with the clerk identification information of the clerk who provided support to the customer and the mode transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the support mode. The mode transaction identification information is associated with information on the transaction operation time (the time from when an instruction to start a support operation is received to when the support operation is completed). Therefore, by storing the clerk identification information and the mode transaction identification information in association with each other, it is possible to obtain the transaction operation time in the support mode of each clerk.

[0075] Here, in order to support a customer in the self mode or the like, the POS terminal 20 is designed so that even a clerk without operation authority can operate it in an emergency so as not to keep the customer waiting. Specifically, even a clerk without operation authority can operate it by inputting specific identification information. A clerk without operation authority is a clerk without operation authority set in the setting unit, or a clerk whose clerk identification information is not even registered in the first place. Note that in the POS system 1, multiple POS terminals 20 cannot be used at the same time with the same clerk identification information. Therefore, even if a clerk who would normally have operation authority is using another POS terminal 20, he or she will not have operation authority.

[0076] The specific identification information is, for example, the number "9999." When the specific identification information is input to the input unit, the permission unit permits the clerk to operate regardless of the operation authority set in the setting unit. The memory control unit associates the specific identification information with mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed by operation with the operation authority permitted by the permission unit, and stores the associated information in a memory unit such as RAM 203. The mode transaction identification information is associated with transaction operation time information. Therefore, by storing the mode transaction identification information, it is possible to obtain the transaction operation time performed with the operation authority permitted by the permission unit in each operation mode, even though it is unclear which clerk performed the operation.

[0077] Next, the output of a receipt will be described. The output unit outputs receipt information indicating the operation mode in which the transaction was performed and the store clerk involved in the transaction based on information stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 203 by the storage control unit. The store clerk involved in the transaction is, for example, the store clerk who performed the product registration operation in normal mode, and the store clerk who registered the product in the registration POS terminal 20a in the transaction-only mode. In addition, the store clerk involved in the transaction also includes the store clerk who assisted the customer in self-service mode. In addition, if there is no store clerk involved in the transaction in full self-service mode, the output unit outputs receipt information (receipt information not including the store clerk) indicating the operation mode in which the transaction was performed (full self-service mode).

[0078] The output unit outputs the receipt information to the printing unit 213. The printing unit 213 prints a receipt using the receipt information output by the output unit. For example, the printing unit 213 prints a receipt that lists the operating mode of the transaction and information about the store clerk involved in the transaction. The information about the store clerk may be the store clerk's name or store clerk identification information. The output unit also outputs the receipt information to the customer side display unit 205 and the store clerk side display unit 210. The customer side display unit 205 and the store clerk side display unit 210 display the receipt information output by the output unit.

[0079] The mode control unit, the storage control unit, the setting unit, the input unit, the permission unit, and the output unit are realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal 20. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal 20 executes a product sales data processing program to realize the functions of each unit.

[0080] (Example of a transaction information table) Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a transaction information table showing transaction information. As shown in Fig. 9, transaction information table 900 (900a, 900b, 900c) includes the following items: "transaction date and time", "operation mode", "clerk identification information", "clerk name", "mode transaction identification information", "transaction operating time", "product", "total amount", "deposit amount", and "change". Transaction information 901 is stored as a record by storing information in each item.

[0081] The transaction information table 900a shows, for example, a transaction in the POS terminal 20-1. The transaction information table 900b shows, for example, a transaction in the POS terminal 20-2. The transaction information table 900c shows, for example, a transaction in the POS terminal 20-3.

[0082] "Transaction date and time" indicates the time when the transaction was made. "Operation mode" indicates the operation mode being controlled, specifically, normal mode, checkout only mode, full self-service mode, or maintenance mode. "Operation mode" includes "start-up." "Start-up" indicates that the power has been turned on. "Store clerk identification information" is information for identifying the store clerk. "Store clerk name" is the name of the store clerk. In full self-service mode, "Store clerk identification information" and "Store clerk name" are set to "Null."

[0083] The "mode transaction identification information" is an example of transaction identification information, and indicates the identification information for each operation mode when a transaction is performed. Specifically, the initial letter of the "mode transaction identification information" can be any one of "S", "F", "T", "K", and "M". The initial letter "S" indicates startup, "F" indicates full self mode, "T" indicates normal mode, "K" indicates accounting-only mode, and "M" indicates maintenance mode. The final symbol of the "mode transaction identification information" indicates any one of "a", "b", and "c". The final symbol "a" indicates a transaction in the POS terminal 20-1, "b" indicates a transaction in the POS terminal 20-2, and "c" indicates a transaction in the POS terminal 20-3. The number in the "mode transaction identification information" indicates the serial number of the transaction performed for each operation mode. This serial number is not reset during business hours in a day, that is, it is a number that is updated every time a transaction is performed.

[0084] For example, "S001a" in the "mode transaction identification information" shown in transaction information 901a indicates that the POS terminal 20-1 has been started. Also, for example, "F001a" in the "mode transaction identification information" shown in transaction information 901b indicates the first transaction in full self mode in the POS terminal 20-1. Also, "T001a" in the "mode transaction identification information" shown in transaction information 901c indicates the first transaction in normal mode in the POS terminal 20-1. Also, "T001a" in the "mode transaction identification information" is associated with "clerk identification information: 0001" of "clerk name: Teraoka Taro."

[0085] Also, in Figure 9, "transaction operation time" indicates the time required for one transaction. "Product" indicates the registered product. "Total amount" indicates the total amount in the transaction. "Deposit amount" indicates the amount deposited by the customer in the transaction. "Change" indicates the amount obtained by subtracting "Total amount" from "Deposit amount."

[0086] In this embodiment, when the POS terminal 20-1 (registered POS terminal 20a) is controlled in the normal mode, the POS terminals 20-2 and 20-3 (settlement POS terminal 20b) are controlled in the transaction-only mode. For example, the transaction information 901c and 901j indicate that the settlement process was performed in the settlement POS terminal 20b using the registration information generated in the registration POS terminal 20a. In the transaction-only mode, the transaction information is associated with the "clerk identification information: 0001" of the "clerk name: Teraoka Taro" who performed the registration operation in the other POS terminal 20 (registered POS terminal 20a).

[0087] For example, transaction information 901b shows a transaction in full self-service mode. Transaction information 901b shows that in full self-service mode, the customer completed the transaction (from registration to completion of payment) in 1 minute 30 seconds without the involvement of a store clerk. For example, transaction information 901c shows a transaction in normal mode. Transaction information 901c shows that in normal mode, "Store clerk name: Teraoka Taro" completed the transaction (from registration to completion of payment). Also, for example, transaction information 901f shows a transaction in checkout-only mode. Transaction information 901f shows that in checkout-only mode, the customer completed the checkout process in 58 seconds.

[0088] Moreover, transaction information 901e, 901g, and 901h indicate transactions in the maintenance mode. Transaction information 901e indicates that in the full self-service mode, "clerk name: Terao Jiro" switched the device to the maintenance mode and supported the customer in the registration operation and the settlement operation for 55 seconds. Transaction information 901g indicates that in the accounting-only mode, "clerk name: Terashima Saburo" switched the device to the maintenance mode and supported the customer in the settlement operation for 1 minute and 10 seconds. Transaction information 901h indicates that in the accounting-only mode, specific identification information "9999" was entered, the device was switched to the maintenance mode, and the customer was supported in the settlement operation for 26 seconds. Moreover, transaction information 901i indicates that the power was turned on by entering specific identification information "9999". Note that when specific identification information "9999" is entered, the clerk name becomes Null.

[0089] For convenience of explanation, the transaction information table 900 shown in FIG. 9 illustrates transaction information 901 necessary for explaining this embodiment, but in reality, a large number of pieces of transaction information 901 are stored. For example, as a transaction in normal mode, only one transaction indicated by transaction information 901c at around 10:20 on July 7 is shown, but in reality, multiple transactions are carried out. Specifically, multiple transactions are carried out from around 10:20 to 11:20 on July 7, and thus multiple pieces of transaction information 901 are stored.

[0090] (Processing performed by POS terminal 20) Next, a process for generating the transaction information 901 shown in the transaction information table 900, which is performed by the POS terminal 20, will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0091] (Start-up process performed by the POS terminal 20) Fig. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of a startup process performed by the POS terminal 20. As shown in Fig. 10, the POS terminal 20 judges whether the power is on or not (step S1001). The POS terminal 20 waits until the power is on (step S1001: NO), and when the power is on (step S1001: YES), it accepts the input of store clerk identification information by operation input, reading, etc. (step S1002).

[0092] Then, the POS terminal 20 refers to the operation authority table 800 (see FIG. 8) and determines whether the store clerk has the operation authority for start-up based on the received store clerk identification information (step S1003). If the store clerk does not have the operation authority for start-up (step S1003: NO), the POS terminal 20 displays a warning indicating that the store clerk does not have the operation authority for start-up (step S1004). Then, the POS terminal 20 displays a screen prompting the input of specific identification information (9999) and receives the input of the specific identification information (step S1005).

[0093] Then, the POS terminal 20 stores the specific identification information and the mode transaction identification information indicating the startup operation in the transaction information table 900 (see FIG. 9) in association with each other (step S1006), and proceeds to step S1008. On the other hand, if the user has the operation authority for startup in step S1003 (step S1003: YES), the POS terminal 20 stores the store clerk identification information at the time of startup and the mode transaction identification information indicating the startup operation in association with each other in the transaction information table 900 (see FIG. 9) (step S1007). The POS terminal 20 then starts up (step S1008), and ends the series of processes.

[0094] The operation mode immediately after startup may be the full self mode across the board. Also, the operation mode immediately after startup may be the operation mode that was controlled at the time of the previous shutdown. Also, the operation mode immediately after startup may be set to the normal mode only by a store clerk who has the operation authority for product registration. In other words, if a store clerk who does not have the operation authority for product registration starts the device, it may not be possible to set the operation mode immediately after startup to the normal mode.

[0095] (Processing in normal mode performed by the POS terminal 20) Fig. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of a process in the normal mode performed by the POS terminal 20. As shown in Fig. 11, the POS terminal 20 judges whether to transition to the normal mode (step S1101). Specifically, in step S1101, the POS terminal 20 displays, for example, on the store clerk display unit 210, a screen for inputting store clerk identification information for transitioning to the normal mode, and judges whether input of store clerk identification information has been accepted on the input screen.

[0096] If the POS terminal 20 does not want to switch to the normal mode, it waits (step S1101: NO), and if the POS terminal 20 wants to switch to the normal mode (step S1101: YES), it refers to the operation authority table 800 (see FIG. 8) and determines whether the store clerk has the operation authority for product registration (step S1102). If the store clerk does not have the operation authority for product registration (step S1102: NO), the POS terminal 20 displays a warning indicating that the store clerk does not have the operation authority for product registration (step S1103), and ends the series of processes without switching to the normal mode.

[0097] On the other hand, if the user has the operation authority to register the product in step S1102 (step S1102: YES), the POS terminal 20 transitions to the registration mode (step S1104). Then, the POS terminal 20 generates the mode transaction identification information (step S1105). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 increments the numeric portion of the mode transaction identification information, and more specifically, if the mode transaction identification information is "T001a", the mode transaction identification information is changed to "T002a".

[0098] The POS terminal 20 then stores in the transaction information table 900 the store clerk identification information received in step S1101 and the mode transaction identification information generated in step S1105 in association with each other (step S1106). Next, the POS terminal 20 performs a product registration process based on the operation of the store clerk (step S1107). The POS terminal 20 then performs a settlement process using the registration information generated in the product registration process (step S1108). The settlement process includes, for example, a process of receiving settlement information from the POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode (settlement POS terminal 20b). The settlement information includes information on the deposit and change at the time of settlement based on the registration information.

[0099] Then, the POS terminal 20 stores the transaction information including the registration information, the settlement information, and the transaction operating time information in the transaction information table 900 (step S1109), and judges whether or not to transition to another operation mode (step S1110). In step S1110, the POS terminal 20 judges, for example, whether or not transition to another operation mode has been accepted. If transition to another operation mode is not to be accepted (step S1110: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S1105. If transition to another operation mode is to be accepted (step S1110: YES), the POS terminal 20 ends the series of processes.

[0100] After the warning display in step S1107, product registration may be allowed even if the user does not have the operational authority for product registration. Specifically, after the warning display, a screen prompting the user to enter specific identification information (9999) may be displayed, and the user may enter the specific identification information and proceed to step S1104. This allows even a store clerk who does not have the operational authority for product registration to register a product in an emergency, etc.

[0101] (Processing in the transaction-only mode performed by the POS terminal 20) Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the transaction-only mode performed by the POS terminal 20. As shown in Fig. 12, the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not to switch to the transaction-only mode (step S1201). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 determines, for example, whether the transaction-only mode switch button 211c has been pressed.

[0102] If the POS terminal 20 is not to be switched to the transaction-only mode, it waits (step S1201: NO), and if the POS terminal 20 is to be switched to the transaction-only mode (step S1201: YES), it switches to the transaction-only mode (step S1202). Then, the POS terminal 20 acquires the store clerk identification information input at the registered POS terminal 20a (another POS terminal 20) from the registered POS terminal 20a (step S1203). Specifically, for example, the POS terminal 20 acquires the store clerk identification information by making a request for transmission of the store clerk identification information to the registered POS terminal 20a and receiving the store clerk identification information from the registered POS terminal 20a in response to the transmission request.

[0103] Then, the POS terminal 20 generates the mode transaction identification information (step S1204). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 increments the numeric portion of the mode transaction identification information, and more specifically, if the mode transaction identification information is "K001b", the mode transaction identification information is changed to "K002b".

[0104] Then, the POS terminal 20 stores the clerk identification information acquired in step S1203 and the mode transaction identification information generated in step S1204 in the transaction information table 900 in association with each other (step S1205). Next, the POS terminal 20 acquires the registration information by reading the code on the receipt or by receiving the registration information from the registered POS terminal 20a (step S1206). Note that the POS terminal 20 in the transaction-only mode displays a button for accepting the start of settlement using the receipt on the standby screen where no transaction is being processed, and when the button is pressed, the customer-side scanner unit 206 can read the transaction. Then, the settlement process is performed using the acquired registration information (step S1207). In the settlement process, the POS terminal 20 generates settlement information. The settlement information includes information on the deposit and change at the time of settlement based on the registration information.

[0105] Then, the POS terminal 20 stores the transaction information including the registration information, the settlement information, and the transaction operating time information in the transaction information table 900 (step S1208), and judges whether or not to transition to another operation mode (step S1209). In step S1209, the POS terminal 20 judges, for example, whether or not transition to another operation mode has been accepted. If transition to another operation mode is not to be accepted (step S1209: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S1105. If transition to another operation mode is to be accepted (step S1209: YES), the POS terminal 20 ends the series of processes.

[0106] (Processing in the Full Self-Service Mode Performed by the POS Terminal 20) Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in the full self-service mode performed by the POS terminal 20. As shown in Fig. 13, the POS terminal 20 judges whether or not to transition to the full self-service mode (step S1301). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 judges, for example, whether or not the mode switching button 211a has been pressed.

[0107] If the POS terminal 20 does not want to transition to the full self-service mode, it waits (step S1301: NO). If the POS terminal 20 wants to transition to the full self-service mode (step S1301: YES), it erases the store clerk identification information stored before transitioning to the full self-service mode (step S1302) and transitions to the full self-service mode (step S1303). Then, the POS terminal 20 generates mode transaction identification information (step S1304). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 increments the numeric portion of the mode transaction identification information, and more specifically, if the mode transaction identification information was "F001a", it changes the mode transaction identification information to "F002a".

[0108] Then, the POS terminal 20 stores the mode transaction identification information generated in step S1304 in the transaction information table 900 (step S1305). Next, the POS terminal 20 performs a product registration process based on the customer's operation (step S1306). Then, the POS terminal 20 performs a settlement process based on the customer's operation using the registration information generated in the product registration process (step S1307).

[0109] Then, the POS terminal 20 stores the transaction information including the registration information, the settlement information, and the transaction operating time information in the transaction information table 900 (step S1308), and judges whether or not to transition to another operation mode (step S1309). In step S1309, the POS terminal 20 judges, for example, whether or not transition to another operation mode has been accepted. If transition to another operation mode is not to be accepted (step S1309: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S1304. If transition to another operation mode is to be accepted (step S1309: YES), the POS terminal 20 ends the series of processes.

[0110] (Processing performed by the POS terminal 20 when providing store clerk support in the self-service mode) Fig. 14 is a flow chart showing an example of a process performed by the POS terminal 20 during clerk support in the self mode. As shown in Fig. 14, the POS terminal 20 judges whether or not a shift to the maintenance mode has been accepted (step S1401). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the mode switching button 211a has been pressed.

[0111] The POS terminal 20 waits until it receives a command to switch to the maintenance mode (step S1401: NO), and upon receiving the command to switch to the maintenance mode (step S1401: YES), it receives input of store clerk identification information by operation input, reading, or the like (step S1402).

[0112] Then, the POS terminal 20 refers to the operation authority table 800 (see FIG. 8) and judges whether the store clerk has operation authority for customer support based on the received store clerk identification information (step S1403). If the store clerk does not have operation authority for customer support (step S1403: NO), the POS terminal 20 displays a warning indicating that the store clerk does not have operation authority for customer support (step S1404).

[0113] Then, the POS terminal 20 judges whether or not specific identification information (9999) is input within a predetermined time (step S1405). In step S1405, specifically, the POS terminal 20 judges whether or not input of specific identification information (9999) is accepted from the store clerk. If specific identification information is not input (step S1405: NO), the POS terminal 20 ends the series of processes without switching to the maintenance mode.

[0114] On the other hand, if specific identification information is input (step S1405: YES) or if the customer support has operating authority in step S1403 (step S1403: YES), the POS terminal 20 transitions to the maintenance mode (step S1406). Then, the POS terminal 20 generates mode transaction identification information (step S1407). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 increments the numeric portion of the mode transaction identification information, and more specifically, if the mode transaction identification information was "M001a", it changes the mode transaction identification information to "M002b".

[0115] Then, the POS terminal 20 stores the identification information (the store clerk identification information accepted in step S1402 or the specific identification information accepted in step S1405) and the mode transaction identification information generated in step S1406 in association with each other in the transaction information table 900 (step S1408). Next, the POS terminal 20 performs at least one of a product registration process and a payment process based on the operation of the store clerk (step S1409).

[0116] The POS terminal 20 then stores the transaction information, including the registration information, settlement information, and transaction operating time information, in the transaction information table 900 (step S1410), and determines whether the operation mode before the transition to maintenance mode was the transaction-only mode (step S1411). If the operation mode before the transition to maintenance mode was the transaction-only mode (step S1411: YES), the POS terminal 20 transitions to the transaction-only mode (step S1412) and ends the series of processes. If the operation mode before the transition to maintenance mode was not the transaction-only mode (step S1411: NO), the POS terminal 20 transitions to the full self-service mode (step S1413) and ends the series of processes.

[0117] Through the processing shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, transaction information 901 in a transaction information table 900 (see FIG. 9) is generated.

[0118] (Receipt issuing process performed by POS terminal 20) Figure 15 is a flow chart showing an example of a receipt production process performed by the POS terminal 20. As shown in Figure 15, the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not to produce a receipt (step S1501). Specifically, in step S1501, the POS terminal 20 determines, for example, whether the receipt production button has been pressed.

[0119] The POS terminal 20 determines whether or not to issue a receipt (step S1501). If the POS terminal 20 does not want to issue a receipt (step S1501: NO), it waits, and if it wants to issue a receipt (step S1501: YES), it refers to the transaction information table 900 (see FIG. 9) and identifies, for example, the most recent transaction information 901 (step S1502). It is also possible to identify past transaction information 901 by, for example, entering mode transaction identification information.

[0120] The POS terminal 20 then determines whether the identified transaction information includes the store clerk's name (step S1503). If the identified transaction information includes the store clerk's name (step S1503: YES), that is, for example, in the case of a transaction in normal mode or accounting-only mode, or in the case of a transaction in self-service mode in which a store clerk with customer support operation authority operated in maintenance mode, the operation mode name and the store clerk's name are printed on the receipt (step S1504), and the process proceeds to step S1506.

[0121] On the other hand, if the identified transaction information does not include the store clerk's name (step S1503: NO), that is, for example, in the case of a transaction in full self-service mode where no store clerk is involved, or in the case of a transaction in full self-service mode where specific identification information (9999) is entered and the transaction transitions to maintenance mode, the store clerk's name is not displayed, but full self-service mode is displayed (step S1505).Then, a receipt is printed (step S1506), and the process ends.

[0122] (Example of a receipt) Next, Fig. 16 and Fig. 17 show examples of receipts output by the POS terminal 20. Fig. 16(A) shows a receipt 1600a output in normal mode. Fig. 16(B) shows a receipt 1600b output in transaction-only mode when a store clerk is not involved. Fig. 16(C) shows a receipt 1600c output in transaction-only mode when a store clerk is involved (when customer support is provided). Fig. 17(A) shows a receipt 1600d output in full self-service mode when a store clerk is not involved. Fig. 17(B) shows a receipt 1600e output in full self-service mode when a store clerk is involved (when customer support is provided).

[0123] The receipt 1600 (1600a to 1600e) contains information including registration information 1601, settlement information 1602, operation mode 1603, and store clerk name 1604. The registration information 1601 includes the product name, unit price, subtotal amount, consumption tax rate, number of items purchased, etc. The settlement information 1602 includes the total amount, the amount received, change, etc.

[0124] The operation mode 1603 indicates the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 in the transaction. Specifically, the operation mode 1603 indicates one of the normal mode, the transaction-only mode, and the full self-service mode. The store clerk name 1604 indicates the name of the store clerk involved in the transaction.

[0125] The receipt 1600a is output from the registration POS terminal 20a. In the receipt 1600a, the operation mode 1603 indicates the normal mode. Also, in the receipt 1600a, the store clerk name 1614 indicates the name of the store clerk who registered the item.

[0126] The receipts 1600b and 1600c are output from the settlement POS terminal 20b. In the receipts 1600b and 1600c, the operation mode 1603 indicates the transaction-only mode. Also, in the receipts 1600b and 1600c, the store clerk name 1614 indicates the name of the store clerk who registered the item in the registration POS terminal 20a. In particular, in the receipt 1600c, the store clerk name 1614a indicates the name of the store clerk who provided customer support by switching the settlement POS terminal 20b into maintenance mode. Note that "maintenance mode" may be written alongside the operation mode 1603 in the receipt 1600c.

[0127] 17 are output from a POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode. In the receipts 1600d and 1600e, the operation mode 1603 indicates full self-service mode. In the receipt 1600d, the store clerk name 1614 is not displayed because there was no involvement of a store clerk. In the receipt 1600e, the store clerk name 1614a indicates the name of the store clerk who provided customer support by switching the POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode into maintenance mode. Note that "maintenance mode" may be written alongside the operation mode 1603 in the receipt 1600e.

[0128] By printing such a receipt 1600, the store clerk or customer can easily understand in which operating mode the transaction was performed and which store clerk was involved in the transaction.

[0129] (Regarding the compilation of operation modes for each store clerk) 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an aggregation table 1800 showing an aggregation of the operation of each store clerk for each operation mode. The aggregation table 1800 can be obtained by extracting the transaction information table 900 (see FIG. 9) for each store clerk and aggregating the data for each operation mode of each store clerk.

[0130] 18, the tally table 1800 includes items of "clerk identification information", "clerk name", "tally target", and "operation mode". "Clerk identification information" is information for identifying a clerk. "Clerk name" is the name of the clerk.

[0131] "Aggregation target" corresponds to the performance of each clerk, and includes the items "Sales," "Transaction operating hours," and "Number of customers." "Sales" indicates the daily sales amount for each clerk's operation mode (the cumulative total amount shown in transaction information table 900). "Transaction operating hours" indicates the daily operating hours for each clerk's operation mode (the cumulative total of transaction operating hours). "Number of customers" indicates the number of transactions handled by each clerk in each operation mode in a day (the cumulative number of customers handled).

[0132] "Operation mode" refers to one of "normal mode," "accounting only mode (maintenance mode)," and "full self-service mode (maintenance mode)." "Normal mode" refers to product registration operations. "Accounting only mode (maintenance mode)" refers to customer support in accounting only mode. "Full self-service mode (maintenance mode)" refers to customer support in full self-service mode.

[0133] Here, we will explain the performance of "Clerk name: Teraoka Taro" with "Clerk identification information: 0001" on July 7, 2020. "Sales" were ¥23,423 in normal mode, ¥592 in checkout only mode, and ¥633 in full self-service mode. "Transaction operating time" was 3 hours and 42 minutes in normal mode, 5 minutes in checkout only mode, and 9 minutes in full self-service mode. "Number of customers" was 25 people in normal mode, 2 people in checkout only mode, and 3 people in full self-service mode.

[0134] Also, for "clerk identification information: 9999 (specific identification information)", a "counting target" for each operation mode is stored. Here, it is unknown which clerk performed the operation indicated by "clerk identification information: 9999". However, by using the image capture results of camera 216, a manager or the like can identify the clerk who assisted the customer. Note that when identifying the clerk, it is not necessary to use the image capture results of camera 216, and it is also possible to use the image capture results of an external camera such as the ceiling or wall of the store.

[0135] When transaction information table 900 stores transaction information 901 with "clerk identification information: 9999" entered, the closing process such as collection of sales for that day may require approval from a manager. For example, the manager may use the imaging results to confirm which clerk assisted the customer, and then perform the closing process.

[0136] By displaying such an aggregation table 1800, a manager such as a store manager can easily grasp the performance of each store clerk. In the aggregation table 1800, the aggregation results are displayed by day, but this is not limited to daily, and can be displayed by any period such as by week or month. In the aggregation table 1800, the display order is in the order of the store clerk identification information, but it is also possible to display the results in order of ranking, such as in order of highest sales or highest hours, without being limited to the order of the store clerk identification information. It is also possible to display the results of comparison with the previous day or the previous month for each store clerk.

[0137] Also, although the tally table 1800 shows tally for each operation mode, this is not limiting. For example, it is also possible to tally items of operation authority (such as discount, return, and deposit). For example, if the "tally target" is set to "discount" of operation authority, it is also possible to tally the discount amount, time, number of customers, etc. for each store clerk. It is also possible to tally the number of times the POS terminal 20 is started up for each store clerk.

[0138] (Counting process performed by POS terminal 20) Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a tallying process performed by the POS terminal 20. As shown in Fig. 19, the POS terminal 20 judges whether an instruction to display a tallying screen has been received (step S1901). Note that the instruction to display the tallying screen can be received, for example, in a maintenance mode.

[0139] The POS terminal 20 waits until it receives an instruction to display the tally screen (step S1901: NO). When the POS terminal 20 receives the instruction to display the tally screen (step S1901: YES), it refers to the transaction information table 900 (see FIG. 9) (step S1902) and tallies the results (sales, time, and number of customers per day) for each operation mode of each store clerk (step S1903). Then, the POS terminal 20 displays the results on, for example, the store clerk display unit 210 (step S1904), and ends the series of processes.

[0140] The POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment described above stores the clerk identification information and the mode transaction identification information in association with each other in the normal mode, and stores the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation at the registration POS terminal 20a and the mode transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the payment-only mode in association with each other in the transaction-only mode. This allows the stored information to be used to tally up the operation of each clerk for each operation mode. This allows the product registration performance of each clerk to be efficiently managed.

[0141] In this embodiment, the POS terminal 20 stores, in the full self-service mode, mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the full self-service mode. This allows the stored information to be used to tally up operations in the full self-service mode. This allows the performance in the full self-service mode to be managed efficiently.

[0142] In addition, in the present embodiment, the POS terminal 20 stores in the maintenance mode the clerk identification information of the clerk who supported the customer and the mode transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the maintenance mode in association with each other. This allows the stored information to be used to tally up the operation in the maintenance mode. This allows the performance of each clerk in the maintenance mode to be efficiently managed.

[0143] In addition, in this embodiment, the POS terminal 20 stores the entered store clerk identification information in association with mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed under the operation authority set in advance for each store clerk. This allows the stored information to be used to tally up the operation of each store clerk in each operation mode for each operation authority. This allows the performance according to the operation authority of each store clerk to be efficiently managed.

[0144] In this embodiment, when specific identification information (9999) is input, the POS terminal 20 allows operation regardless of the operation authority, and stores the specific identification information in association with mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed with the permitted operation authority. This allows even a store clerk without operation authority to perform an operation in an emergency. In addition, the stored information can be used to tally up the operation of a transaction performed by inputting the specific identification information. Therefore, the performance of a transaction performed by inputting the specific identification information can be efficiently managed.

[0145] In this embodiment, the transaction mode identification information is associated with information on the time required for one transaction (transaction operation time), so that the transaction operation time for each operation mode of each clerk can be obtained.

[0146] In this embodiment, the POS terminal 20 outputs receipt information indicating the operation mode in which the transaction was performed and the store clerk involved in the transaction, so that the store clerk or customer can easily understand in which operation mode the transaction was performed and which store clerk was involved in the transaction.

[0147] (Modification of the embodiment) Modifications 1 to 4 of this embodiment will be described below. In each of the following modifications, the contents described in the above embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. It is also possible to combine the configurations shown in the above embodiment and modifications 1 to 4. Specifically, the configuration may include all of the above embodiment and modifications 1 to 4, or the configuration may include at least one of the above embodiment and modifications 1 to 4.

[0148] (Variation 1) First, a first modified example of this embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the mode transaction identification information and the store clerk identification information are not associated with each other in the full self-service mode. In the first modified example, a case will be described in which the mode transaction identification information and the store clerk identification information are associated with each other and stored even in the full self-service mode.

[0149] In the first modification, the clerk identification information associated with the mode transaction identification information may be the clerk identification information of the clerk who switched to the full self-service mode, or the clerk identification information of the clerk who was using the POS terminal 20 immediately before. The name of the clerk may also be displayed on receipts issued in the full self-service mode. According to the first modification, it is possible to know the clerk who switched to the full self-service mode and the clerk who was using the POS terminal 20 before switching to the full self-service mode, so that the work of each clerk can be understood in detail. Therefore, the product registration track record of each clerk can be efficiently managed.

[0150] (Variation 2) Next, a second modified example of the present embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, a configuration in which the third operation mode includes a full self-service mode has been described. In addition to or instead of such a configuration, in the second modified example, a configuration in which the third mode includes a ticket vending machine mode will be described.

[0151] The ticket vending machine mode is a mode for issuing meal tickets. Specifically, in the ticket vending machine mode, a customer performs a product registration process and a payment process, purchases a meal ticket, and receives the product in exchange for the meal ticket, thereby completing the transaction.

[0152] (About stores that switch to ticket vending machine mode) In izakaya restaurants that are mainly open at night and also serve lunch, the introduction of a meal ticket issuing machine can speed up the provision of various services. However, the introduction of a meal ticket issuing machine can cause problems with installation space and costs. In this regard, if it is possible to switch to ticket vending machine mode, it is possible to speed up the provision of various services by issuing meal tickets with the POS terminal 20 without installing a meal ticket machine. Also, by switching to normal mode (face-to-face payment) during nighttime operations, payment can be made after meals have been consumed.

[0153] In addition to izakaya restaurants, some stores cook and serve food to customers during the day, and serve boxed lunches and instant noodles that have been prepared during the day at night. In such stores, the POS terminal 20 may be in ticket machine mode during the day (11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) and in full self-service mode at night (8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.).

[0154] In this way, the POS terminal 20 can be used not only as a normal cash register, but also as a ticket vending machine (ticket vending machine mode), thereby improving convenience.

[0155] Fig. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen and a meal ticket in the ticket vending machine mode. Fig. 20(A) shows a mode switching screen 2000 to switch to the ticket vending machine mode. Note that in Fig. 20(A), the machine is operating in normal mode before switching to the mode switching screen 2000, and a store clerk has pressed a mode switching button 2004.

[0156] The mode switching screen 200 includes a ticket vending machine mode designation button 2001, another mode designation button 2002, and a back button 2003. The ticket vending machine mode designation button 2001 accepts switching to the ticket vending machine mode. The other mode designation button 2002 accepts switching to other modes such as a full self-service mode or a checkout only mode. The back button 2003 accepts returning to the normal mode.

[0157] FIG. 20B shows a registration screen 2010 in the ticket vending machine mode. The registration screen 2010 includes a product selection button 2011, a registered product display area 2012, and a checkout button 2020. The product selection button 2011 is a button corresponding to each displayed product (coffee, tea, etc.) and is a button that accepts registration of a product selected by a customer. In the ticket vending machine mode, product registration is performed only by the product selection button 2011 displayed on the customer side display unit 205, and the scanner function by the customer side scanner unit 206 is stopped. The registered product display area 2012 is an area that displays a list of products selected by a customer. The checkout button 2020 is a button that accepts the start of checkout. When the checkout button 2020 is pressed to complete the checkout, a meal ticket 2030 in FIG. 20C is output. The meal ticket 2030 includes a receipt section and a meal ticket section. The receipt section and the meal ticket section can be separated from each other.

[0158] Furthermore, once the payment is complete, the POS terminal 20 transmits the order data to the kitchen monitor and kitchen printer. Upon receiving the order data from the POS terminal 20, the kitchen monitor displays the order details. Furthermore, upon receiving the order data from the POS terminal 20, the kitchen printer prints out the order details on a medium (paper). The waiter in the kitchen checks the order details displayed on the kitchen monitor and the order details printed out from the kitchen monitor, and then starts cooking.

[0159] When the clerk has finished preparing the product, the customer who ordered that product is called, and the product is handed over to the customer in exchange for the meal ticket portion of meal ticket 2030. Note that the customer may be called by, for example, the clerk reading out the order number, by displaying the order number when the product is ready on a display, or by lending a specific pager to the customer and calling the customer using that pager.

[0160] In the second modification, in the ticket machine mode, the memory control unit stores in a memory unit such as the RAM 203 mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the ticket machine mode. For example, the mode transaction identification information is identification information such as "N001" for the first ticket machine mode transaction of the day. The mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the ticket machine mode is associated with information on the transaction operating time (the time required for one transaction: the time from receiving an instruction to start the registration operation to completing the settlement process). Therefore, by storing the mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the ticket machine mode, it is possible to obtain the transaction operating time in the ticket machine mode (the time required for one transaction).

[0161] According to the second modification, the POS terminal 20 stores mode transaction identification information that indicates transactions performed in the ticket vending machine mode, and can use the stored information to tally up operations in the ticket vending machine mode. This allows for efficient management of results in the ticket vending machine mode.

[0162] In addition, the mode control means can control the ticket vending machine mode to a support mode for providing support to customers. The support mode is specifically a maintenance mode for providing support for registration processing and accounting processing in the ticket vending machine mode.

[0163] In the support mode, the storage control unit stores in a storage unit such as the RAM 203, in association with the clerk identification information of the clerk who provided support to the customer and the mode transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the support mode. The mode transaction identification information is associated with information on transaction operating time (e.g., the time from switching to the support mode to the end of the support mode). Therefore, by storing the clerk identification information and the mode transaction identification information in association with each other, it is possible to obtain the transaction operating time in the support mode of each clerk in the ticket machine mode.

[0164] In the ticket vending machine mode, the mode transaction identification information and the clerk identification information may be stored in association with each other. The clerk identification information associated with the mode transaction identification information may be the clerk identification information of the clerk who switched to the ticket vending machine mode, or the clerk identification information of the clerk who was using the POS terminal 20 immediately before. This makes it possible to know the clerk who switched to the ticket vending machine mode and the clerk who was using the POS terminal 20 before switching to the ticket vending machine mode, and therefore to know the work of each clerk in detail. Therefore, the product registration performance of each clerk can be efficiently managed.

[0165] (Variation 3) Next, a third variation of this embodiment will be described. In the above embodiment, the POS system 1 has been described in which the POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode performs settlement using registration information in which products have been registered in the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. In addition to or instead of this configuration, a third variation will be described in which a shopping system is described in which the POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode performs settlement using registration information in which products have been registered in a mobile terminal operated by a customer.

[0166] In the third modification, the shopping system includes a mobile terminal, a payment device (a POS terminal 20 in a payment-only mode), and a cloud server. The mobile terminal may be a terminal device owned by a customer, or may be a terminal device rented by a store. The mobile terminal may be installed in a shopping cart, or may be held by a customer.

[0167] In the shopping system, the product scanned by the mobile terminal is registered in the cloud server. Then, at the time of payment, the POS terminal 20 receives registration information used for payment from the cloud server, and payment is made. Below, we will briefly explain the flow from product registration to payment in the shopping system. (1) A customer uses the camera function of a mobile device to read a product code (e.g., a barcode) attached to a product. After reading the product code, the mobile device transmits the product code information (and cart identification information) indicated by the read product code to the cloud server. (2) The cloud server stores cart information including cart identification information that identifies the customer (mobile terminal). When the cloud server receives product code information (and cart identification information) from the mobile terminal, it stores the product indicated by the product code information in the cart information. The mobile terminal transmits the product code information to the cloud server each time it reads a product code. However, the mobile terminal may successively store the product code information it reads and transmit the product code information to the cloud server all at once when it accepts the start of settlement. (3) When the customer has completed registering the products they wish to purchase, they press the checkout start button displayed on their mobile device. When the mobile device receives the button press, it encodes the cart identification information (e.g., a two-dimensional code) and displays it on the display (touch panel) of the mobile device. (4) Then, the customer causes the customer-side scanner unit 206 of the POS terminal 20 to read the two-dimensional code. When the settlement device reads the two-dimensional code, it transmits the cart identification information indicated by the read two-dimensional code to the cloud server, and requests the cloud server to transmit registration information required for settlement. Note that the timing at which the customer-side scanner unit 206 is able to read is different between the shopping system and the POS system 1 of the embodiment. In the POS terminal 20 in the settlement-only mode in the shopping system, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is always able to read two-dimensional codes on the standby screen where no settlement is being performed. On the other hand, the POS terminal 20 in the settlement-only mode in the POS system 1 of the embodiment described above displays a button for accepting the start of settlement using a bill on the standby screen where no settlement is being performed, and when the button is pressed, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is able to read the bill. (5) When the cloud server receives a request to transmit registration information from the POS terminal 20, the cloud server identifies the cart information using the cart identification information received together with the request to transmit, and generates registration information. Then, the cloud server transmits the generated registration information to the POS terminal 20. (6) When the POS terminal 20 receives the registration information from the cloud server, the POS terminal 20 starts settlement using the received registration information.

[0168] Here, in the shopping system, when a specific product (hereinafter referred to as a "reserved product") is registered, a store clerk is called at the time of payment and the store clerk's confirmation is required. For example, types of reserved products include NO-FILE products, unscanned products, age verification products, security tag products, medicines, etc. The following describes the types of reserved products.

[0169] A no file product is, for example, a product that is not registered in the product master. An unscanned product is, for example, a product whose package is wrinkled, or whose barcode is smudged or dirty, and whose barcode cannot be recognized due to a timeout. Note that unscanned products include products that are added to the cart by pretending to read the product's barcode (for example, by scanning a part without a code or by passing the product through the imaging range too fast to scan it), and products that are added to the shopping cart without performing any operation to position the product within the imaging range of camera 407. Age verification products are products such as alcohol and tobacco that require a store clerk to verify the customer's age before selling them. An anti-theft tag product is, for example, a product that is priced above a certain amount and has an anti-theft tag attached. Pharmaceutical products are products that require a licensed person, such as a pharmacist, to explain the product to the purchaser.

[0170] In the third modification, the mode control means can control the shopping system in a checkout-only mode to a support mode in which support is provided to the customer when there are reserved items, etc. The support mode in the shopping system is a mode in which support for checkout is provided by a store clerk, and also includes a reserved item support mode. In the reserved item support mode, the store clerk performs processes such as registering no-file items and unscanned items, verifying age-verification items, removing security tags, and contacting pharmacists, etc.

[0171] In the pending product support mode, the storage control unit stores in a storage unit such as the RAM 203, in association with the clerk identification information of the clerk who provided support to the customer and the mode transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the pending product support mode. For example, the mode transaction identification information is identification information such as "H001" for the first pending product support of the day. The mode transaction identification information is associated with information on transaction operating time (for example, the time from switching to the support mode to terminating the support mode). Therefore, by storing the clerk identification information and the mode transaction identification information in association with each other, it is possible to obtain the transaction operating time of each clerk in the pending product support mode.

[0172] According to the third modification, the POS terminal 20 stores the clerk identification information of the clerk who supported the customer in the pending product support mode and the mode transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the pending product support mode in association with each other, so that the operation in the pending product support mode can be totaled using the stored information. Therefore, the performance of each clerk in the pending product support mode can be efficiently managed.

[0173] In addition, in the third modified example, in the reserved product support mode, mode identification information according to the type of reserved product may be set. For example, mode identification information when handling a no-file product and mode identification information when handling an unscanned product may be set, respectively. Furthermore, the storage control unit may store in a storage unit such as the RAM 203, in association with the clerk identification information of the clerk who supported the customer and the mode transaction identification information indicating the reserved product support mode according to the type of reserved product. The mode transaction identification information is associated with information on transaction operating time (the time from switching to the support mode for handling a no-file product to ending the support mode). This makes it possible to obtain the transaction operating time according to the type of reserved product of each clerk in the reserved product support mode.

[0174] In addition, in the third modification, the setting unit may set in advance the operation authority that each clerk can operate in the reserved product support mode. For example, in the case of a trainee clerk, only the operation authority for age verification products may be set, and in the case of a veteran clerk, the operation authority for all types of reserved products may be set. The permission unit permits operation with the operation authority set in the setting unit based on the clerk identification information input to the input unit. For example, in the case of a clerk who does not have the operation authority to register a product of a no-file product, specifically in the case of a trainee clerk, the permission unit does not permit the clerk to operate the product registration of a no-file product. On the other hand, in the case of a clerk who has the authority to register a product of a no-file product, specifically in the case of a veteran clerk, the permission unit permits the clerk to operate the product registration of a no-file product.

[0175] In this way, the stored information can be used to tally up the work performed by each sales clerk for each operating authority in the reserved item support mode, thereby making it possible to efficiently manage the performance of each sales clerk according to their operating authority.

[0176] (Variation 4) Next, a fourth modified example of the present embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, a configuration for collecting mode transaction identification information in the normal mode, the checkout mode, and the full self-service mode has been mainly described. In addition to or instead of such a configuration, in the fourth modified example, a configuration capable of collecting mode transaction identification information in each of the exchange mode, the charge mode, and the cash-out mode will be described.

[0177] The currency exchange mode is a mode in which currency exchange is performed in response to operations by a customer. In the currency exchange mode, currency exchange is performed by accepting cash inserted by a customer. The charge mode is a mode for depositing (charging) money into electronic money. In the charge mode, a selection screen for charging amount is displayed, and the customer can select the charge amount or insert cash, thereby charging the electronic money with cash. The cash-out mode is a mode in which cash can be withdrawn. In the cash-out mode, a field for inputting the amount to be withdrawn is displayed, the amount to be withdrawn is accepted from the customer, and if there is no insufficient balance, the cash is dispensed.

[0178] These modes can be switched to, for example, when a settlement process is not being performed in the accounting-only mode, or when a registration process or a settlement process is not being performed in the full self-service mode. For example, when an instruction to switch to the money exchange mode is input while the POS terminal 20 is on standby in the accounting-only mode or the full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 transitions to the money exchange mode. The switching instruction may be input by displaying a switching button for each mode on the customer-side display unit 205 during standby and the customer pressing the button. Also, without being limited to this, the switching instruction may be input by transmission from the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. For example, when a store clerk performing a registration operation on the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode receives a request from a customer, the switching instruction is transmitted from the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode in response to the operation of the store clerk.

[0179] In the fourth modification, the storage control unit stores in a storage unit such as the RAM 203, in each mode such as the currency exchange mode, each mode transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in each mode. For example, the mode transaction identification information is identification information such as "R001" for the first currency exchange of the day. Each mode transaction identification information is associated with information on transaction operating time (for example, the time from switching to the currency exchange mode to terminating the currency exchange mode). Therefore, by storing each mode transaction identification information, it is possible to obtain the transaction operating time in each mode.

[0180] According to the fourth modification, the POS terminal 20 stores mode transaction identification information indicating transactions performed in each mode such as the exchange mode, and can use the stored information to tally up operations in each mode such as the exchange mode. Therefore, the results in each mode such as the exchange mode can be efficiently managed.

[0181] The mode control means can also control each mode, such as the currency exchange mode, to a support mode in which the clerk provides support to the customer. In the support mode, the storage control unit stores in a storage unit, such as the RAM 203, the clerk identification information of the clerk who provided support to the customer in association with the mode transaction identification information indicating the transaction conducted in the support mode. The mode transaction identification information is associated with information on transaction operating time (e.g., the time from switching to the support mode to terminating the support mode). Therefore, by storing the clerk identification information in association with the mode transaction identification information, it is possible to obtain the transaction operating time in the support mode of each clerk in each mode.

[0182] This allows the POS terminal 20 to tally up the work of each store clerk in each support mode, such as the currency exchange mode, etc. Therefore, the track record of each store clerk regarding customer support can be efficiently managed.

[0183] In addition, for each mode, the mode transaction identification information and the clerk identification information may be stored in association with each other. The clerk identification information associated with the mode transaction identification information may be the clerk identification information of the clerk who switched to each mode, or the clerk identification information of the clerk who was using the POS terminal 20 until just before. This makes it possible to know the clerk who switched to each mode and the clerk who was using the POS terminal 20 before switching to each mode, and therefore to know the work of each clerk in detail. Therefore, the performance of each clerk can be efficiently managed.

[0184] In addition, in the fourth modification, the setting unit may set in advance the operation authority available for each clerk who can switch to each mode. For example, in the case of an apprentice clerk, only the operation authority for switching to the exchange mode may be set, and in the case of a veteran clerk, the operation authority for switching to all modes may be set. The permission unit permits an operation with the operation authority set in the setting unit based on the clerk identification information input to the input unit. For example, in the case of a clerk who does not have the operation authority to switch to the cashout mode, specifically in the case of an apprentice clerk, the permission unit does not permit the clerk to operate the switch to the cashout mode. On the other hand, in the case of a clerk who has the authority to switch to the cashout mode, specifically in the case of a veteran clerk, the permission unit permits the clerk to operate the cashout mode.

[0185] This allows the user to know which clerk switched to each mode according to his / her operating authority and which clerk was using each mode before switching to that mode, and therefore the user can get a detailed understanding of the work of each clerk. This allows the user to efficiently manage the performance of each clerk.

[0186] The embodiments will be summarized below. [Name of invention] Product sales data processing device, product sales data processing method, and program [Technical field] The present invention relates to a product sales data processing device, a product sales data processing method, and a program. [Background technology] Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets, POS (Point Of Sales) registers are used to register products purchased by customers and to settle the bill. For such POS registers, so-called self-checkout registers, in which a store clerk registers products and the customer settles the bill, are widespread. For example, a POS register is known that can be switched between a first operation mode in which a store clerk registers products and the customer settles the bill, and a second operation mode in which the customer registers products and settles the bill. A related technology is known in which a registered payment device waits for the input of store clerk identification information when an instruction to switch from a second operating mode to a first operating mode is given, and when the store clerk identification information is input, updates specific information stored in a store clerk memory unit to the input store clerk identification information (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-017160 A [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, the conventional technology has a problem in that it is not possible to tally up the operation of each store clerk for each operation mode, and therefore it is not possible to efficiently manage the performance of each store clerk. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique that enables efficient management of sales clerk performance.

[0187] [Means for solving the problem] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one embodiment of the present invention is a product sales data processing device that is characterized by comprising: a mode control means for controlling an operation mode to one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode (e.g., a normal mode) in which a store clerk performs a registration operation of products purchased by a customer and the customer performs a settlement operation for the purchased products, and a second operation mode (e.g., a checkout-only mode) in which the customer performs a settlement operation based on the registration operation performed on another device; and a storage control means for storing, in the first operation mode, the store clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation and transaction identification information (mode transaction identification information) indicating the transaction performed in the first operation mode in association with each other, and for storing, in the second operation mode, the store clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation on the other device and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the second operation mode in association with each other (see FIG. 9). According to the above-mentioned configuration, the operation of each sales clerk for each operation mode can be compiled using the stored information, and therefore the track record of each sales clerk regarding product registration can be efficiently managed.

[0188] In the above configuration, the multiple operation modes include a third operation mode (e.g., a full self-service mode) in which the customer performs both the registration operation and the settlement operation, and the memory control means may store transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the third operation mode. According to the above configuration, the operations in the third operation mode can be compiled using the stored information, and therefore the results in the third operation mode can be efficiently managed.

[0189] In the above configuration, the mode control means can control the second operation mode and the third operation mode to a support mode in which customer support is provided, and the memory control means can store, in the support mode, clerk identification information of the clerk who provided support to the customer and transaction identification information indicative of a transaction conducted in the support mode in association with each other. According to the above-mentioned configuration, the operation in the support mode can be totaled using the stored information, and therefore the performance in the support mode of each store clerk can be efficiently managed.

[0190] In the above configuration, the device includes a setting means for presetting the operating authority available to each store clerk in each operation mode (for example, authority for registration operations in normal mode), an input means for inputting store clerk identification information (store clerk code), and an authorization means for authorizing operations with the operating authority set in the setting means based on the store clerk identification information inputted to the input means, and the storage control means may store the store clerk identification information inputted to the input means in association with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed by an operation with the operating authority authorized by the authorization means. According to the above-mentioned configuration, the operation of each store clerk for each operation authority in each operation mode can be totaled using the stored information, and therefore the performance according to the operation authority of each store clerk can be efficiently managed.

[0191] In the above configuration, when specific identification information (e.g., the number "9999") is input into the input means, the permission means permits the operation regardless of the operation authority set in the setting means, and the memory control means may store the specific identification information in association with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed by an operation with the operation authority permitted by the permission means. According to the above configuration, even a store clerk without operating authority can perform an emergency operation. In addition, the stored information can be used to tally up the operation of a transaction performed by inputting specific identification information. Therefore, the performance of a transaction performed by inputting specific identification information can be efficiently managed.

[0192] In the above configuration, the transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in each operation mode may be associated with information on the time required for one transaction. According to the above configuration, the time required for one transaction can be obtained for each operation mode of each store clerk.

[0193] In the above configuration, the device may further include an output means for outputting receipt information (see FIG. 16) indicating the operating mode in which the transaction was performed and the store clerk involved in the transaction, based on the information stored by the memory control means. According to the above configuration, the store clerk or the customer can easily understand in which operation mode the transaction was performed and which store clerk was involved in the transaction.

[0194] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing method performed by a product sales data processing device, which is a product sales data processing method characterized by executing processing including: a mode control step of controlling an operation mode to one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode in which a store clerk performs a registration operation of a product purchased by a customer and the customer performs a settlement operation for the purchased product, and a second operation mode in which the customer performs a settlement operation based on the registration operation performed on another device; and a storage control step of storing, in the first operation mode, the store clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the first operation mode in association with each other, and storing, in the second operation mode, the store clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation on the other device and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the second operation mode in association with each other. According to the above-mentioned configuration, the operation of each sales clerk for each operation mode can be compiled using the stored information, and therefore the track record of each sales clerk regarding product registration can be efficiently managed.

[0195] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer used in a product sales data processing device to function as a mode control means that controls the computer to one of a plurality of operation modes, including a first operation mode in which a store clerk performs a registration operation for products purchased by a customer and the customer performs a settlement operation for the purchased products, and a second operation mode in which the customer performs a settlement operation based on the registration operation performed on another device, and a storage control means that, in the first operation mode, stores clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation in association with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the first operation mode, and, in the second operation mode, stores clerk identification information of the store clerk who performed the registration operation on the other device in association with transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the second operation mode. According to the above-mentioned configuration, the operation of each sales clerk for each operation mode can be compiled using the stored information, and therefore the track record of each sales clerk regarding product registration can be efficiently managed.

[0196] In the above description, for example, the registered POS terminal 20a is described as having a mode control unit, a storage control unit, a setting unit, an input unit, a permission unit, and an output unit. However, these functional units may be provided in other computer devices. For example, these functional units may be provided in the store controller 10, the monitoring terminal 11, or an external computer device (external server). In addition, the number of computer devices that are provided with these functional units is not limited to one, and may be multiple. For example, some of these functional units may be provided in one computer device, and other functional units may be provided in other computer devices.

[0197] The program for implementing the POS terminal 20 described above may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read and executed by a computer system. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as a flexible disk, an optical magnetic disk, a ROM, and a CD-ROM, and a storage device such as a hard disk built into a computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a storage device that holds a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or a client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. The "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be for implementing a part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file (differential program). [Explanation of symbols]

[0198] 1. POS system 10…Store Controller 11…Monitoring terminal 20…POS terminal 201…CPU 202...ROM 203...RAM 204...Hard disk 205…Customer side display section 206…Customer side scanner section 208…Card payment department 209…Change machine 210...Staff side display section 211...Key operation section 212…Clerk side scanner 213…Printing Department 214...Audio output unit 215…Communications Department 216…Camera

Claims

1. a mode control means for controlling the operation mode to one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode in which a store clerk performs a registration operation of merchandise purchased by a customer and the customer performs a payment operation for the purchased merchandise, and a second operation mode in which the customer performs a payment operation based on the registration operation performed on another device; a storage control means for storing, in the first operation mode, the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the first operation mode in association with each other, and for storing, in the second operation mode, the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation at the other device and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the second operation mode in association with each other; an output means for outputting receipt information indicating the operating mode in which the transaction was made and the store clerk involved in the transaction based on the information stored by the memory control means; Equipped with the mode control means is capable of controlling the second operation mode to a support mode for providing support to a customer, the storage control means stores, in association with each other, sales clerk identification information of a sales clerk who has provided support to a customer in the support mode and transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the support mode; and in the second operation mode, the output means outputs the receipt information including information on the store clerk who performed the registration operation and information on the store clerk who provided support in the support mode in the second operation mode. A product sales data processing device comprising:

2. the plurality of operation modes includes a third operation mode in which both the registration operation and the settlement operation are performed by a customer, The storage control means, in the third operation mode, stores transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the third operation mode, the mode control means is capable of controlling the mode to the support mode in the third operation mode, and in the third operation mode, the output means outputs the receipt information including information about the store clerk who provided support in the support mode in the third operation mode.

2. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1.

3. the mode control means controls the operation mode to the first operation mode when the store clerk has an operating authority, and controls the operation mode to the second operation mode or the third operation mode regardless of the operating authority; 3. The product sales data processing device according to claim 2.

4. A product sales data processing method performed by a product sales data processing device, a mode control step of controlling the operation mode to one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode in which a store clerk performs a registration operation of merchandise purchased by a customer and the customer performs a payment operation for the purchased merchandise, and a second operation mode in which the customer performs a payment operation based on the registration operation performed on another device; a storage control step of storing, in the first operation mode, the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the first operation mode in association with each other, and storing, in the second operation mode, the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation at the other device and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the second operation mode in association with each other; an output step of outputting receipt information indicating the operating mode in which the transaction was performed and the store clerk involved in the transaction based on the information stored in the storage control step; Perform a process including In the mode control step, the second operation mode can be controlled to a support mode for providing support to a customer, In the storage control step, store clerk identification information of a clerk who has provided support to the customer in the support mode and transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the support mode in association with each other, In the output step, in the second operation mode, the receipt information including information on the store clerk who performed the registration operation and information on the store clerk who provided support in the support mode in the second operation mode is output. A merchandise sales data processing method comprising:

5. A computer used in a product sales data processing device, a mode control means for controlling the operation mode to one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode in which a store clerk performs a registration operation of merchandise purchased by a customer and the customer performs a payment operation for the purchased merchandise, and a second operation mode in which the customer performs a payment operation based on the registration operation performed on another device; a storage control means for storing, in the first operation mode, the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the first operation mode in association with each other, and for storing, in the second operation mode, the clerk identification information of the clerk who performed the registration operation at the other device and transaction identification information indicating the transaction performed in the second operation mode in association with each other; an output means for outputting receipt information indicating the operating mode in which the transaction was made and the store clerk involved in the transaction based on the information stored by the memory control means; Function as a the mode control means is capable of controlling the second operation mode to a support mode for providing support to a customer, the storage control means stores, in association with each other, sales clerk identification information of a sales clerk who has provided support to a customer in the support mode and transaction identification information indicating a transaction performed in the support mode; and in the second operation mode, the output means outputs the receipt information including information on the store clerk who performed the registration operation and information on the store clerk who provided support in the support mode in the second operation mode. A program characterized by:

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