Product sales data processing device and program

Abstract

To simply execute charge.SOLUTION: A commodity sales data processing device that registers purchased commodities of a customer includes: first processing means that generates and processes first processing data including registration information of the purchased commodities of the customer and identification information of the customer as first processing; second processing means that when a predetermined depositing operation is done during processing of the first processing by the first processing means, generates and processes second processing data based on the depositing operation as second processing; and takeover means that takes over the first processing data into the second processing to be started based on the predetermined depositing operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] There is known a technique for charging (depositing) electronic money without interrupting the electronic money settlement procedure (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-75986 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the charging operation at a POS terminal or the like is time-consuming and places a burden on the operator.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique for easily executing charging in a POS terminal or the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one embodiment of the present invention is a product sales data processing device that registers products purchased by a customer, and is characterized in that it has a first processing means that generates and processes, as a first process, first processing data including registration information of the products purchased by the customer and identification information of the customer, a second processing means that, when a specified deposit operation is performed during the processing of the first process by the first processing means, generates and processes, as a second process, second processing data based on the deposit operation, and a handover means that hands over the first processing data to the second process that is started based on the specified deposit operation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation of a POS terminal. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a POS terminal. [Figure 4] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Diagram 5] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 6] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 7] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 8] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 17] This is an explanatory diagram summarizing the differences between a next customer transaction using the next customer registration button and a charge transaction using a charge declaration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to one 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 device 40, which are communicatively connected via a LAN 11. Hereinafter, when the POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-3 are not particularly distinguished from each other, they will be collectively referred to as the POS terminal 20.

[0009] The store controller 10 receives product files from outside (for example, a server at the headquarters) and transmits (distributes) them to other devices (such as the POS terminals 20). The store controller 10 also receives information from other devices and transmits it to the outside.

[0010] The monitoring device 40 monitors, for example, the processing status of the POS terminal 20. As an example, the monitoring device 40 monitors the number of coins in the change dispenser 209 provided in the POS terminal 20.

[0011] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the installation of the POS terminal 20. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20. Fig. 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the customer side. Fig. 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in Fig. 2(A), a counter is placed to the right of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. In Fig. 2, the same parts as those in Fig. 3 are given the same reference numerals.

[0012] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20 shown in Fig. 3 will be described below with reference to Fig. 2. 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, and a communication unit 215. These can communicate with each other via a bus. The operation mode switching button 211a will be described later.

[0013] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the POS terminal 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 202 . The ROM 202 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 201, including programs.

[0014] The RAM 203 is a read / write memory and stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores information acquired from the outside (e.g., a product file acquired from the store controller 10, etc.) and information generated during processing (e.g., registration information (registration data) generated during a registration process for registering products, etc., settlement information generated during a settlement process for settling (paying) purchased products, etc.).

[0015] The hard disk 204 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 204 may store programs executed by the CPU 201 instead of the ROM 202. Also, instead of the RAM 203, the hard disk 204 may store information acquired from the outside and information generated during processing.

[0016] The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers, which 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 also read codes printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, complimentary tickets), codes printed on various cards (e.g., membership cards, point cards, etc.), and codes displayed on electronic devices (mobile terminals, etc.).

[0017] Although the customer-side scanner unit 206 is used when a customer registers a product, the customer may register the product by other methods. For example, if a preset button (a button for registering a product) corresponding to the product is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205, the customer may operate (press) the preset button to register the product.

[0018] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism using various cards (credit cards, point cards, prepaid cards, debit cards, etc.). The card payment unit 208 includes a recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit. The recognition unit magnetically or electrically reads information on various cards (or may be a mobile terminal, etc.). Recognition by the recognition unit may be of the contact type or of the non-contact type.

[0019] The information recognized by the recognition unit is used when the payment (settlement) of the purchased item is made non-cash. That is, the card payment unit 208 (recognition unit) reads the information in the case of credit card payment, point payment using (consuming) points held on a point card, prepaid payment using a prepaid card, debit payment using a debit card, etc.

[0020] The information recognized by the recognition unit may be used when the purchase is paid for non-cash (i.e., credit card payment, point payment, prepaid payment, debit payment, etc.), as well as when points are awarded on a point card. In other words, the card payment unit 208 (recognition unit) may read the information even when points are awarded simply in cash payment.

[0021] The card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes a recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit, but it is sufficient that the card payment unit 208 includes at least the recognition unit. That is, the card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes a display unit, and for example, the recognition information by the recognition unit is displayed on the display unit, but if the card payment unit 208 does not include a display unit, the recognition information may be displayed on the customer display unit 205 (or the store clerk display unit 210). Also, the card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes an operation unit, and the operation unit accepts, for example, operations related to payment (such as inputting the number of passwords), but if the card payment unit 208 does not include an operation unit, the customer display unit 205 (or the store clerk display unit 210) may accept the operations related to the payment.

[0022] Furthermore, the card payment unit 208 may have functions other than the recognition unit, the display unit, and the operation unit. For example, the card payment unit 208 may have a communication unit. When the card payment unit 208 does not have an operation unit, it communicates with an external server (such as a credit card payment server or a prepaid card payment server installed by the same company or another company) via the communication unit 215, but when the card payment unit 208 has an operation unit, it communicates with an external server via the communication unit 215 or the communication unit of the card payment unit 208 (whether it is via the communication unit 215 or the communication unit of the card payment unit 208 may be different for each server that is the communication partner).

[0023] The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism, which has an input port for banknotes and coins, and an output port for banknotes and coins, calculates the amount of money 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 and is operated by the customer. When banknotes or coins are inserted into the input port, they are detected by a sensor (detecting that they have been inserted, detecting the number of coins by denomination, etc.).

[0024] The store clerk's display unit 210 is a touch display for the store clerk, which displays various information to the store clerk and receives various inputs from the store clerk. The key operation unit 211 is made up of various keys (hardware keys, buttons) and receives various inputs from the store clerk. The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for store clerks, and optically reads various types of 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, coupons, various cards, and codes displayed on electronic devices.

[0025] Although the store clerk's scanner unit 212 is used when the store clerk registers a product, the store clerk may register the product by other methods. For example, if a key corresponding to a product (e.g., a key corresponding to a sports newspaper, etc.) is arranged on the key operation unit 211, the store clerk may operate (press) the key to register the product. Also, if a preset button corresponding to a product is displayed on the store clerk's display unit 210, the store clerk may operate the preset button to register the product.

[0026] The printing unit 213 prints and issues various media (receipts, bills, etc.). The printing unit 213 can freely rotate to change its orientation (direction of the media issuing port) from the clerk side to the customer side, or from the customer side to the clerk side. The orientation of the printing unit 213 may be changed manually, or may be changed automatically (mechanically controlled, etc.) based on, for example, a change in operating mode (details to be described later). The correctness of the orientation of the printing unit 213 may be detected by a sensor or the like.

[0027] The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance and the like. The communication unit 215 transmits and receives information to and from other terminals (other POS terminals 20, the store controller 10).

[0028] The POS terminal 20 may further include an imaging unit (camera), a timing unit (clock), and the like.

[0029] (Operation mode of POS terminal 20) The POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes. For example, the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is switched based on the operation of the operation mode switching button 211a.

[0030] (Face-to-face semi-self mode (normal mode)) The face-to-face semi-self-service mode (also called normal mode) is an operation mode in which a store clerk uses one side (store clerk side) of the POS terminal 20 to register products, and a customer uses the other side (customer side) of the POS terminal 20 to settle the bill. That is, when the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is the face-to-face semi-self-service mode, the store clerk and the customer face each other across the POS terminal 20, the store clerk registers the products, and the customer settles the bill.

[0031] (Full self mode) The full self-service mode is an operation mode in which a customer registers merchandise and pays using one side (customer side) of the POS terminal 20. That is, when the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is the full self-service mode, the customer registers merchandise and pays using the customer side of the POS terminal 20 (without using the store clerk side).

[0032] (Multiple-unit semi-self-registration mode (registration-only mode)) The multiple-unit semi-self-registration mode (also referred to as a registration-only mode) is an operation mode in which a store clerk registers a product using one side (the store clerk side) of the POS terminal 20. That is, when the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is the multiple-unit semi-self-registration mode, the store clerk registers a product using the store clerk side of the POS terminal 20 (without using the customer side).

[0033] (Multiple-unit semi-self-service payment mode (payment-only mode)) The multiple-unit semi-self-service settlement mode (also referred to as a settlement-only mode) is an operation mode in which a customer settles the bill using one side (customer side) of the POS terminal 20. That is, when the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is the multiple-unit semi-self-service settlement mode, the customer settles the bill using the customer side of the POS terminal 20 (without using the store clerk side).

[0034] The POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service registration mode transmits (directly or indirectly via another device) registration information to the other POS terminal 20 (specifically, the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service settlement mode) to have the other POS terminal 20 (the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service settlement mode) settle the payment for the products registered by the POS terminal 20 (the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service registration mode). In other words, the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service settlement mode receives (directly or indirectly via another device) registration information transmitted by the other POS terminal 20 (specifically, the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service registration mode) to settle the payment for the products registered by the other POS terminal 20 (the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service registration mode).

[0035] The POS terminal 20 in the multiple-machine semi-self-service registration mode may issue a bill and have another POS terminal 20 (a POS terminal 20 in the multiple-machine semi-self-service settlement mode) settle the payment for the products registered by the POS terminal 20 (the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-machine semi-self-service registration mode). In other words, the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-machine semi-self-service settlement mode may settle the payment for the products registered by the other POS terminal 20 (the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-machine semi-self-service registration mode) by reading a code printed on a bill issued by the other POS terminal 20 (the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-machine semi-self-service registration mode).

[0036] The above-mentioned operation in each operation mode is an example. For example, the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service registration mode may transmit registration information to the POS terminal 20 in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode or the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode, or may issue a bill. In other words, the POS terminal in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode (as well as the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode) may settle the account for the product registered by the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service registration mode. Also, for example, the POS terminal 20 in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode may transmit registration information to the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode or the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service settlement mode, or may issue a bill. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode (as well as the POS terminal 20 in the multiple-unit semi-self-service settlement mode) may settle the account for the product registered by the POS terminal 20 in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode. Also, for example, a POS terminal 20 in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode may transmit registration information or issue a bill to another POS terminal 20 in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode. In other words, a POS terminal 20 in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode may settle the bill for products registered by another POS terminal 20 in the face-to-face semi-self-service mode.

[0037] As described above, the POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes. However, in the following, unless otherwise specified, the POS terminal 20 will be described as operating in the normal mode (face-to-face semi-self-service mode).

[0038] The POS terminal 20 of this embodiment is capable of settling payments using a prepaid card. Also, the POS terminal 20 of this embodiment is capable of charging (depositing) money into a prepaid card at various times during a transaction.

[0039] 4 to 8 are examples of displays on the POS terminal 20. Specifically, they are examples of displays on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20 in the case where a prepaid card (Card A) of a certain customer K is charged when registering and settling the purchased items (canned beer, asparagus, and nori bento) of the certain customer K. The display transitions in the order of Fig. 4(A) → Fig. 4(B) → Fig. 5(A) → Fig. 5(B) → Fig. 6(A) → Fig. 6(B) → Fig. 7(A) → Fig. 7(B) → Fig. 8(A) → Fig. 8(B).

[0040] Fig. 4(A) shows the display contents of the registration screen before the start of a transaction (before one item of merchandise is registered and before A card (prepaid card) is read, etc.). In other words, when a transaction is not pending (when there is no pending transaction), the POS terminal 20 displays a settlement screen such as that shown in Fig. 4(A) on the store clerk display unit 210. Note that a pending transaction means that processing of the transaction is not yet completed (for example, a state in which settlement is not yet completed in a device that registers merchandise and settles the settlement, a state in which transmission of registration information is not yet completed in a device that registers merchandise and transmits the registration information to other devices, etc.).

[0041] In FIG. 4(A), HR01 on the upper left side of the screen is the customer information display area. The scene in FIG. 4(A) is before the start of a transaction, and since the customer has not been identified, the customer information display area HR01 is blank. BT04 on the right side of the customer information display area HR01 is a detail display button for displaying more detailed information in the customer information display area HR01. Since the scene in FIG. 4(A) is a scene where the customer has not been identified, operating the detail display button BT04 does nothing.

[0042] In Fig. 4(A), HR07 to the right of the detail display button BT04 is a status display area. In this embodiment, during a charge transaction (charge transaction), the word "charge" is displayed in the status display area HR07. Since the scene in Fig. 4(A) is not a scene during a charge transaction, the status display area HR07 is blank.

[0043] In FIG. 4(A), TRSXX (XX is "00", "01", "02", ...) on the upper right side of the screen is a transaction selection area (also called a "transaction tab") corresponding to each transaction. For example, the transaction selection area for the first pending transaction is transaction selection area TRS01, and the transaction selection area for the second pending transaction is transaction selection area TRS02. Note that the scene in FIG. 4(A) is a scene before the start of a transaction, so no transaction is pending (there are no pending transactions). Therefore, the transaction selection area TRS00 is displayed in the scene in FIG. 4(A). Note that the transaction selection area TRS00 is displayed not only in scenes where there are no pending transactions (the scene in FIG. 4(A)), but also in scenes where, for example, a pending transaction is terminated (the scenes in FIG. 7(B) and FIG. 8(B)).

[0044] The area HR02 below the customer information display area HR01 is a previous product information display area that displays the product information (product name, price) registered immediately before (last). Since the scene in FIG. 4(A) is a scene before the start of a transaction, the previous product information display area HR02 is blank (the amount is zero).

[0045] The area HR03 to the right of the previous product information display area HR02 is a total information display area that displays total information (total number of items, total price) of registered products. Since the scene in FIG. 4(A) is a scene before the start of a transaction, the total information display area HR03 is zero.

[0046] HR04 on the left center of the screen is a registered information display area that displays registered information for the transaction. Since the scene in Fig. 4(A) is a scene before the start of a transaction, the registered information display area HR04 is blank.

[0047] HR05 on the right center of the screen is a preset button display area that displays preset buttons. PBSXX (XX is "00", "01", "02", ...) displayed in the preset button display area HR05 are preset button selection areas (also called "preset button tabs") that correspond to preset button groups. PBS01 is a basic preset button selection area that corresponds to basic preset buttons. PBS02 is a fruit preset button selection area that corresponds to preset buttons related to fruits. PBS03 is a vegetable preset button selection area that corresponds to preset buttons related to vegetables. PBS04 is a fresh fish preset button selection area that corresponds to preset buttons related to fresh fish. PBS05 is a meat preset button selection area that corresponds to preset buttons related to meat. PBS06 is a sake preset button selection area that corresponds to preset buttons related to sake.

[0048] In the scene in Figure 4 (A), the basic preset button selection area PBS01 is selected, so the A card read button, customer number button, A card charge button, card cancel button, and designation correction button are displayed as the group of preset buttons (basic preset buttons) corresponding to the basic preset button selection area PBS01.

[0049] The A card read button is a button that is operated before reading the A card. In other words, the A card read button is a button that declares the reading of the A card. The customer number button is a button that is operated before inputting a customer number (customer identification information that identifies the customer). In other words, the customer number button is a button that declares the input of a customer number. The customer number is input, for example, by inputting a number (operating the numeric keys or the like arranged on the key operation unit 211).

[0050] The A Card Charge Button is a button that is operated before charging (depositing money into) Card A. In other words, the A Card Charge Button is a button that declares that Card A will be charged. Hereinafter, the declaration made by operating the A Card Charge Button will also be referred to as a charge declaration, and the A Card Charge Button will also be referred to as the charge declaration button.

[0051] The cancel card button is a button for canceling (cancelling) the results of reading the card (such as the acquired customer number). The correct designation button is a button that is operated before specifying and correcting a registered product. In other words, the correct designation button is a button that declares the cancellation of the designation of a registered product.

[0052] In the scene in Figure 4 (A), of the A Card Read button, Customer Number button, A Card Charge button, Card Cancel button, and Designation Correction button, the A Card Read button and Customer Number button are displayed in a manner that indicates that they are operable (valid, active), while the A Card Charge button, Card Cancel button, and Designation Correction button are displayed in a manner that indicates that they are not operable (invalid, inactive) (the buttons are shown with a diagonal line through them in the figure).

[0053] GA01 at the bottom left of the screen is a status image. In this embodiment, the POS terminal 20 displays a status image GA01 displaying "Sales Registration" at the bottom left of the registration screen (FIG. 4(A) etc.), and displays a status image GA02 displaying "Payment Registration" at the bottom left of the sub-screen (FIG. 6(B) etc.). For example, when a problem occurs, a store clerk can check the image and explain the situation of the problem (such as which screen it occurred on) to others.

[0054] 4A, a message prompting the user to read their membership card (A card) is displayed in the message display area HR06.

[0055] BT01 on the lower right side of the screen is a subtotal button for instructing the end of the registration process (end of registration of all purchased items in the transaction). Since the subtotal button BT01 becomes operable after the items are registered, in the scene of FIG. 4(A), the subtotal button BT01 is displayed in a manner that indicates that it cannot be operated.

[0056] The button BT02 to the right of the subtotal button BT01 is a checkout button for instructing the start of checkout (payment) (determining the deposit amount). The checkout button BT02 is operable when payment is possible, so in the scene in Figure 4(A), the checkout button BT02 is displayed in a manner that indicates that it cannot be operated.

[0057] BT03 at the bottom left of the screen is a next customer registration button for starting a transaction for another customer (second customer, next customer) when a transaction for a certain customer (first customer) is pending. The next customer registration button BT03 will be described later.

[0058] In this example, the A card charge button (as well as the card cancellation button and the designated correction button) is displayed in a manner that indicates that it cannot be operated, but it may be hidden. Also, in this example, the subtotal button BT01 (as well as the billing button BT02) is displayed in a manner that indicates that it cannot be operated, but it may be hidden. The same is true for the other figures.

[0059] Fig. 4(B) shows the display contents of the registration screen in the scene following Fig. 4(A), specifically, the scene after reading of card A. In other words, when the store clerk operates the A card reading button and customer K has his / her A card read by the card payment section 208, the POS terminal 20 displays the registration screen as shown in Fig. 4(B) on the store clerk side display section 210.

[0060] 4B, a transaction selection area TRS01 is displayed on the upper right side of the screen. In other words, the POS terminal 20 recognizes the reading of the A card before the start of the transaction as the start of the transaction, and generates the transaction selection area TRS01.

[0061] In addition, since the A card has been read, the customer information is displayed in the customer information display area HR01. Specifically, in the customer information display area HR01, the customer number (in this example, "1234567890 / 00"), the number of points held (usable) in the A card (in this example, "1034P"), and the charge balance of the A card (in this example, "500 yen") are displayed as the customer information of the customer K. In addition, since the A card has been read, the message that was displayed in the message display area HR06 and that urges the user to read the A card has been erased. Note that, when the detail display button BT04 is operated, the POS terminal 20 displays more detailed customer information of the customer K (customer name, rank, etc.) in the customer information display area HR01. Note that the customer information display area HR01 may be enlarged to display the detailed customer information, or the detailed customer information may be displayed on a small screen.

[0062] In addition, because the A card has been read, the display mode of the preset buttons displayed in the preset button display area HR05 has changed. Specifically, the A card read button and the customer number button have changed from a display mode indicating that they are operable to a display mode indicating that they are inoperable, and the A card charge button and the card cancel button have changed from a display mode indicating that they are inoperable to a display mode indicating that they are operable.

[0063] Fig. 5(A) shows the display contents of the registration screen in the scene following Fig. 4(B), specifically, in the scene after the registration of the products (canned beer, asparagus, and nori bento). That is, when the store clerk registers canned beer (reading the barcode on the canned beer using the store clerk scanner unit 212), registers asparagus (operating the asparagus preset button after operating the vegetable preset button selection area PBS03), and registers nori bento (reading the barcode on the nori bento using the store clerk scanner unit 212), the POS terminal 20 displays the registration screen as shown in Fig. 5(A) on the store clerk display unit 210.

[0064] In the scene of Fig. 5(A), the registration information display area HR04 displays the registration information of the registered products (canned beer, asparagus, and nori bento), the previous product information display area HR02 displays the product information of the product registered immediately before (nori bento), and the total information display area HR03 displays the total information of the registered products (canned beer, asparagus, and nori bento). Also, in the scene of Fig. 5(A), the vegetable preset button selection area PBS03 operated immediately before (last) remains selected in the preset button display area HR05.

[0065] In the scene of FIG. 5(A), since the product has already been registered, the subtotal button BT01 is displayed in a display mode indicating that it is operable.

[0066] Fig. 5(B) shows the display contents of the registration screen in the scene following Fig. 5(A), specifically, in the scene after the basic preset button selection area PBS01 is operated. In other words, when the store clerk operates the basic preset button selection area PBS01, the POS terminal 20 displays the registration screen as shown in Fig. 5(B) on the store clerk side display unit 210.

[0067] Fig. 6(A) shows the display contents of the registration screen in the scene following Fig. 5(B), specifically, in the scene after the declaration of charge to Card A. In other words, when the store clerk operates the A Card charge button, the POS terminal 20 displays the registration screen as shown in Fig. 6(A) on the store clerk side display unit 210.

[0068] 6(A), a transaction selection area TRS02 is displayed in addition to the transaction selection area TRS01 on the upper right side of the screen. In other words, the POS terminal 20 recognizes the charge declaration of the A card (operation of the A card charge button) as the start of a new transaction, and generates the transaction selection area TRS02.

[0069] 6(A), the customer information display area HR01 displays the customer information of customer K. That is, the customer information display area HR01 displays the customer information of customer K after the charge declaration for card A, just as it did before the charge declaration for card A. That is, when a charge declaration for card A is made, the POS terminal 20 recognizes (inherits) the customer information in the transaction (transaction 1) before the declaration as the customer information for the new transaction (transaction 2) generated by the declaration.

[0070] (Transfer of information from transaction 1 to transaction 2) The POS terminal 20 stores transaction information for each transaction (for example, in the RAM 203, the hard disk 204, etc.). Specifically, the POS terminal 20 stores registration information of products, etc., customer information, store clerk information, etc. as transaction information. For ease of explanation, it is assumed that the POS terminal 20 stores registration information of products, etc. in a product registration information storage area in the RAM 203, customer information in a customer information storage area in the RAM 203, and store clerk information in a store clerk information storage area in the RAM 203 for each transaction. Just before the charge declaration for the A card, the product registration information storage area for transaction 1 stores registration information of canned beer, asparagus, and nori bento, the customer information of customer K is stored in the customer information storage area for transaction 1, and the store clerk information of the store clerk serving customer K is stored in the store clerk information storage area for transaction 1.

[0071] When a charge declaration for card A is made, the POS terminal 20 copies the customer information (customer information of customer K stored in the customer information storage area of ​​transaction 1) of the transaction that was active before the declaration (transaction 1 in this example) to the customer information storage area of ​​the new transaction (transaction 2 in this example; specifically, the charge processing transaction (charge transaction)) generated by the declaration. As a result, the customer information of customer K in transaction 1 is carried over as the customer information for transaction 2.

[0072] When a charge declaration for card A is made, the POS terminal 20 may consider that the customer information for a new transaction (transaction 2 in this example) generated by the declaration is the customer information (customer information of customer K in this example) stored in the customer information storage area of ​​the transaction (transaction 1 in this example) that was active before the declaration. In other words, the POS terminal 20 may consider that the customer information for transaction 2 is common to the customer information for transaction 1 and is obtained by referring to the customer information storage area for transaction 1. As a result, the customer information for customer K in transaction 1 is carried over as the customer information for transaction 2.

[0073] Although details will be described later, multiple transactions of different customers become pending when the Next Customer Registration button BT03 is operated. Even when multiple transactions of different customers are pending, it is possible to declare a charge for Card A. When a charge for Card A is declared when multiple transactions of different customers are pending, the process is taken over in the same way as when a charge for Card A is declared when a single transaction is pending. In other words, when a charge for Card A is declared when multiple transactions of different customers are pending, the POS terminal 20 copies the customer information of one of the multiple transactions that was active before the declaration to the customer information storage area of ​​a new transaction (charge transaction) generated by the declaration. For example, if a charge declaration for card A is made while two transactions, a transaction for customer L (transaction L) and a transaction for customer M (transaction M), are pending, the customer information of one of the two transactions, L and M, that was active before the declaration (if a charge declaration for card A was made while transaction L was being executed, the customer information of customer L stored in the customer information memory area of ​​transaction L; conversely, if a charge declaration for card A was made while transaction M was being executed, the customer information of customer M stored in the customer information memory area of ​​transaction M) is copied to the customer information memory area of ​​the new transaction (charge transaction) generated by the declaration.

[0074] 6A, the product in transaction 2 (in this example, the charge product) has not been registered, so the registration information display area HR04 is blank. Similarly, the previous product information display area HR02 is blank (amount is zero), and the total information display area HR03 is also zero.

[0075] Also, in the scene of Fig. 6(A), the preset button display area HR05 displays preset buttons different from those before the charge declaration of card A. Specifically, before the charge declaration of card A (i.e., in transaction 1), the basic preset button selection area PBS01, the fruit preset button selection area PBS02, the vegetable preset button selection area PBS03, the fresh fish preset button selection area PBS04, the meat preset button selection area PBS05, and the sake preset button selection area PBS06 are displayed (arranged) as shown in Fig. 5(A), but after the charge declaration of card A (i.e., in transaction 2), the basic preset button selection area PBS01, the 10,000 or less preset button selection area PBS10, the 10,000 to 20,000 preset button selection area PBS11, the 20,000 to 30,000 preset button selection area PBS12, the 30,000 to 40,000 preset button selection area PBS13, and the 40,000 or more preset button selection area PBS14 are displayed (arranged) as shown in Fig. 6(A).

[0076] In the scene of Fig. 6(A), since the 10,000 or less preset button selection area PBS10 is selected, the charge 1000 yen button, charge 2000 yen button, charge 3000 yen button, ..., charge 9000 yen button, and charge 10000 yen button are displayed as the preset button group corresponding to the 10,000 or less preset button selection area PBS10. The preset button group corresponding to the 10,000 to 20,000 preset button selection area PBS11 is the charge 11,000 yen button, charge 12,000 yen button, charge 13,000 yen button, ..., charge 19,000 yen button, and charge 20,000 yen button. The same applies to the other preset button selection areas.

[0077] In this example, the preset button corresponding to the charge amount (such as the Charge 1000 yen button) is used to specify the charge amount as well as to operate the subtotal. Therefore, when the preset button corresponding to the charge amount is operated, the screen transitions to the subtotal screen without operating the subtotal button BT01. Therefore, in the scene of FIG. 6(A), the subtotal button BT01 is not displayed on the lower right side of the screen (to balance the fact that the subtotal button BT01 is not displayed, the billing button BT02 is also not displayed). However, in the scene of FIG. 6(A), the subtotal button BT01 and billing button BT02 may be displayed (for example, displayed in a manner indicating that they cannot be operated).

[0078] The charge amount can be specified by operating a preset button corresponding to the charge amount as described above, or by inputting a number (operating the number keys or the like arranged on the key operation unit 211). After operating a preset button, the display transitions to the subtotal screen without operating the subtotal button BT01 as described above, but after inputting a number, the display transitions to the subtotal screen based on the operation of the subtotal key (operation of the subtotal key arranged on the key operation unit 211). However, the display may transition to the subtotal screen without operating the subtotal key after inputting a number.

[0079] Also, in the scene of FIG. 6(A), a message prompting the user to specify a recharge amount is displayed in the message display area HR06.

[0080] Also, since the scene in FIG. 6(A) is during a charge declaration (charge declaration transaction), that is, during a charge processing transaction (charge transaction), the status display area HR07 displays "Charge."

[0081] Fig. 6(B) shows the display contents of the subtotal screen in the scene following Fig. 6(A), specifically, in the scene after the charge registration of 1000 yen. In other words, when the store clerk operates the charge 1000 yen button (or operates the subtotal key after inputting the amount of 1000 yen), the POS terminal 20 displays the subtotal screen as shown in Fig. 6(B) on the store clerk side display unit 210.

[0082] In Fig. 6(B), HR10 on the left side of the center of the screen is a subtotal information display area that displays the subtotal information for the transaction. In the scene of Fig. 6(B), the subtotal information display area HR10 displays the following subtotal information for Transaction 2: the number of items purchased (shown as "product total" in the figure) is "1," the subtotal amount (shown as "subtotal" in the figure) is "1,000," and the total amount (shown as "total" in the figure) is "1,000."

[0083] Also, in the scene of Fig. 6(B), the preset button display area HR05 displays preset buttons different from those before the operation of the charge 1000 yen button. Specifically, before the operation of the charge 1000 yen button (i.e. before the subtotal), as shown in Fig. 6(A), the basic preset button selection area PBS01, the basic preset button selection area PBS01, the 10,000 or less preset button selection area PBS10, the 10,000 to 20,000 preset button selection area PBS11, the 20,000 to 30,000 preset button selection area PBS12, the 30,000 to 40,000 preset button selection area PBS13, and the 40,000 or more preset button selection area PBS14 were displayed (arranged), but after the operation of the charge 1000 yen button (i.e. after the subtotal), the credit button, the A card prepaid button, the A card point button, the debit button, the A card read button, the customer number button, the A card charge button, and the card cancellation button are displayed as shown in Fig. 6(B).

[0084] The credit button is a button that is operated before making a payment with a credit card. In other words, the credit button is a button that declares a credit payment. The A card prepaid button is a button that is operated before making a payment with the A card. In other words, the A card prepaid button is a button that declares a prepaid payment with the A card. The A card points button is a button that is operated before making a payment with the A card points. In other words, the A card points button is a button that declares a point payment with the A card. The debit button is a button that is operated before making a payment with a debit card. In other words, the debit button is a button that declares a debit payment. The A card read button, as described above, is a button that declares the reading of the A card. The customer number button, as described above, is a button that declares the input of the customer number. The A card charge button, as described above, is a button that declares the charging of the A card. The card cancel button, as described above, is a button for canceling the result of reading the card. In the scene of FIG. 6(B), the card cancellation button is displayed in a display manner indicating that it is operable, and the other buttons are displayed in a display manner indicating that they are inoperable.

[0085] Also, in the scene of FIG. 6(B), the subtotal button BT01 is displayed in a display manner indicating that it is operable, and the checkout button BT02 is displayed in a display manner indicating that it is not operable.

[0086] In the scene of FIG. 6(B), a message prompting input of the deposit amount is displayed in the message display area HR06.

[0087] Fig. 7(A) shows the display contents of the settlement screen in the scene following Fig. 6(B), specifically, in the scene after the deposit amount of 5000 yen has been entered. In other words, when a customer inserts 5000 yen into the change dispenser 209 and the store clerk operates the bill payment button BT02, the POS terminal 20 displays the settlement screen as shown in Fig. 7(A) on the store clerk display unit 210.

[0088] In the scene of Fig. 7(A), the customer information display area HR01 displays the customer number ("1234567890 / 00"), the points held by Card A ("1034P"), and the charge balance of Card A ("1,500 yen") as the customer information of Customer K. In other words, the charge balance has been updated from 500 yen to 1500 yen by charging 1000 yen.

[0089] In addition, since the scene in FIG. 7(A) is a scene in which pending transaction 2 is being terminated, the transaction selection field TRS00 is displayed in place of the transaction selection field TRS02 corresponding to transaction 2.

[0090] In Fig. 7(A), HR20 on the left side of the center of the screen is a settlement information display area that displays settlement information for the transaction. In the scene of Fig. 7(A), the settlement information display area HR20 displays, as settlement information for transaction 2, "Cash 5,000" as payment information, "5,000" as purchase (payment) total (written as "Total" in the figure), "5,000" as deposit amount (written as "Deposit" in the figure), and "4,000" as change amount (written as "Change" in the figure).

[0091] 7(A), the small screen SG01 is displayed in front of the preset buttons such as the credit button in the preset button display area HR05. In this example, since there is change, the POS terminal 20 displays the small screen SG01, but if there is no change, the small screen SG01 is not displayed. Regardless of whether there is change or not, the POS terminal 20 may display the small screen SG01 (however, if there is no change, a message indicating that there is no change may be displayed).

[0092] Fig. 7(B) shows the display contents of the settlement screen in the scene following Fig. 7(A), specifically, in the scene after the OK button on the small screen SG01 is operated. In other words, when the store clerk operates the OK button on the small screen SG01, the POS terminal 20 displays the registration screen as shown in Fig. 7(B) on the store clerk side display unit 210.

[0093] The registration screen shown in Fig. 7(B) is the same as the registration screen shown in Fig. 5(B) except that the charge balance has been updated from 500 yen to 1500 yen. In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes transaction 2 (the process of charging 1000 yen to card A shown in Figs. 5(B) to 7(A)) from the middle of transaction 1 (the scene shown in Fig. 5(A)), and returns to transaction 1 again upon completion of transaction 2.

[0094] In the scene of Fig. 7(B), as described above, the charge balance in the customer information display area HR01 is updated from 500 yen to 1500 yen. In other words, the POS terminal 20 reflects the information of the transaction (transaction 2) resulting from the charge declaration of card A in the transaction (transaction 1) before the declaration.

[0095] (Regarding the reflection of information from transaction 2 in transaction 1) In transaction 2 after the charge declaration of A card (in this example, a charge transaction), the POS terminal 20 stores the registration information of transaction 2 (specifically, the charge amount of A card) in the product registration information storage area. That is, at the end of transaction 2, the charge amount of A card is stored in the product registration information storage area of ​​transaction 2. Also, as described above, the customer information storage area of ​​transaction 2 stores the customer information (customer information of customer K) of the transaction (transaction 1 in this example) that was active before the charge declaration of A card. Then, at the end of transaction 2 (charge transaction), the POS terminal 20 reflects the information of transaction 2 (specifically, the charge amount stored in the product registration information storage area of ​​transaction 2) in the customer information of the transaction (transaction 1) that was active before the charge declaration of A card (specifically, the customer information (charge balance of A card) of customer K stored in the customer information storage area of ​​transaction 2).

[0096] Although the details will be described later, multiple transactions of different customers are pending by operating the next customer registration button BT03. Even if multiple transactions of different customers are pending, it is possible to declare a charge for the A card. When a charge declaration for the A card is made while multiple transactions of different customers are pending, the POS terminal 20 reflects the charge amount of the charge transaction in the customer information of an appropriate transaction among the multiple transactions that were pending before the charge declaration for the A card at the end of the charge transaction. In other words, as described above, when a charge declaration for the A card is made while multiple transactions of different customers are pending, the POS terminal 20 copies the customer information of one of the multiple transactions that was active before the declaration to the customer information storage area of ​​a new transaction (charge transaction) generated by the declaration, so that at the end of the charge transaction, the POS terminal 20 refers to the copied customer information (the customer number of the transaction that was active before the declaration) and reflects the charge amount of the charge transaction in the customer information of an appropriate transaction among the multiple transactions (the charge balance of the customer of the transaction that was active before the declaration).

[0097] Fig. 8(A) shows the display contents of the subtotal screen in the scene following Fig. 7(B), specifically, in the scene after the subtotal button BT01 is operated. In other words, when a store clerk operates the subtotal button BT01, the POS terminal 20 displays the subtotal screen as shown in Fig. 8(A) on the store clerk side display unit 210.

[0098] In the scene in Figure 8 (A), the subtotal information display area HR10 displays the subtotal information for Transaction 1, including the number of items purchased (referred to as "Total of Items" in the figure) of "3," the subtotal amount (referred to as "Subtotal" in the figure) of "803," and the total amount (referred to as "Total" in the figure) of "803."

[0099] Also, in the scene of Figure 8 (A), the preset button display area HR05 displays the credit button, the A card prepaid button, the A card point button, the debit button, the A card charge button and the card cancellation button in a display manner indicating that they can be operated, while the A card read button and the customer number button are displayed in a display manner indicating that they cannot be operated.

[0100] We will explain the differences between the charge details page for Card A (Figure 6(A)) and the charge details page for general products (Figure 8(A)).

[0101] In this example, non-cash settlement is permitted as a settlement (payment) for general merchandise, but non-cash settlement is not permitted as a settlement for charging a prepaid card. Therefore, on the sub-page for general merchandise (FIG. 8(A)), the buttons for non-cash settlement (credit button, A card prepaid button, A card point button, debit button) are displayed in a manner that indicates that they can be operated, but on the sub-page for charging an A card (FIG. 6(A)), the buttons for non-cash settlement are displayed in a manner that indicates that they cannot be operated. Note that non-cash settlement may be permitted as a settlement for charging a prepaid card.

[0102] Also, in this example, a charge transaction is allowed to interrupt a general product transaction, but a further charge transaction is not allowed to interrupt a charge transaction. Therefore, on the general product sub-page (FIG. 8(A)), the A card charge button is displayed in a manner that indicates that it can be operated, but on the A card charge sub-page (FIG. 6(A)), the A card charge button is displayed in a manner that indicates that it cannot be operated.

[0103] Figure 8(B) shows the display contents of the settlement screen in the scene following Figure 8(A), specifically, the scene after the operation of full payment by card A. In other words, when the store clerk inputs the quantity 803, operates the A card prepaid button, and operates the billing button BT02, the POS terminal 20 displays the settlement screen as shown in Figure 8(B) on the store clerk side display unit 210.

[0104] In the scene of Fig. 8(B), the customer information display area HR01 displays the customer number ("1234567890 / 00"), the number of points held on Card A ("1042P"), and the charge balance on Card A ("697 yen") as customer information for Customer K. In other words, the charge balance has been updated from 1500 yen to 697 yen due to the payment of 803 yen, and the number of points held has been updated from 1034P to 1042P due to the purchase of 803 yen.

[0105] In addition, in the scene of Figure 8 (B), the settlement information display area HR20 displays the following settlement information for Transaction 1: payment information "A Card Prepaid 803", the purchase (payment) total (shown as "Total" in the figure) is "803", the total prepaid amount (shown as "Prepaid" in the figure) is "803", and the change amount (shown as "Change" in the figure) is "0".

[0106] Following the settlement screen of FIG. 8(B) (eg, based on detection that the receipt has been removed), the screen transitions to the registration screen of FIG. 4(A).

[0107] Fig. 9 to Fig. 16 are flow charts showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal 20. Specifically, the flow chart in Fig. 9 shows the operation in an initial state (a state in which there is no pending transaction). In other words, at the start of the flow chart in Fig. 9, the POS terminal 20 is displaying a registration screen as shown in Fig. 4(A) on the store clerk display unit 210. Figs. 10 to 15 are continuations of the flow chart in Fig. 1.

[0108] (Explanation of the flow chart in Fig. 9) As described above, the flowchart in FIG. 9 shows the operation in the initial state, that is, before the first product item is registered and before the A card is read.

[0109] Step S11: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the A card has been read. If the A card has been read (step S11: YES), the process proceeds to step S12. If the A card has not been read (step S11: NO), the process proceeds to step S17.

[0110] Step S12: The POS terminal 20 acquires and displays the customer information. For example, the POS terminal 20 acquires the customer information of the customer from an external server (a server in which customer information is stored in association with the customer number) based on the customer number read from the A card, and displays it in the customer information display area HR01. Next, proceed to step S23 in FIG. 10. Note that, if a portion of the necessary customer information (for example, information used for display in the customer information display area HR01 or for various processes) is stored in the A card, the portion of the customer information may be acquired from the A card instead of from an external server. If all of the necessary customer information is stored in the A card, there is no need to access an external server (the same applies to step S32 in FIG. 12 and step S52 in FIG. 15).

[0111] Step S17: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the product has been read (the barcode attached to the product has been read, or the preset button of the product has been operated). If the product has been read (step S17: YES), the process proceeds to step S30 in Fig. 12. If the product has not been read (step S17: NO), the process returns to step S11.

[0112] (Explanation of the flow chart in Figure 10) The flowchart in FIG. 10 shows the operation before the registration of the first product item and after the A card has been read.

[0113] Step S23: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the A card has been cancelled (the card cancellation button has been operated). If the A card has been cancelled (step S23: YES), the process proceeds to step S24. If the A card has not been cancelled (step S23: NO), the process proceeds to step S25.

[0114] Step S24: The POS terminal 20 clears the customer information. For example, the POS terminal 20 erases the customer information that has been displayed in the customer information display area HR01. Then, the process returns to step S17 in FIG.

[0115] Step S25: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not a charge declaration for the A card has been made (operation of the A card charge button). If a charge declaration has been made (step S25: YES), the process proceeds to step S200 (charge process). If a charge declaration has not been made (step S25: NO), the process proceeds to step S27.

[0116] Step S27: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the product has been read, etc. If the product has been read, etc. (Step S27: YES), the process proceeds to Step S40 in Fig. 13. If the product has not been read, etc. (Step S27: NO), the process returns to Step S23.

[0117] (Explanation of the flow chart in Figure 11) The flowchart in Fig. 11 shows the operation in the charge process (charge process before registration of one item of merchandise) in step S200 in Fig. 10. After the charge process is completed, the process proceeds to step S27 in Fig. 10.

[0118] Step S201: The POS terminal 20 generates a transaction selection area for a recharge transaction, and displays preset buttons corresponding to the recharge amount (a recharge 1000 yen button, a recharge 2000 yen button, a recharge 3000 yen button, etc.). Then, the process proceeds to step S202.

[0119] Step S202: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not a recharge amount has been registered (specified). If a recharge amount has been registered (specified) (Step S202: YES), the process proceeds to Step S203. If a recharge amount has not been registered (specified) (Step S202: NO), the process returns to Step S202.

[0120] The charge amount is registered (specified) in step S202 by operating a preset button (such as the charge 1000 yen button) that also functions as a subtotal operation, or by inputting a number (operating the numeric keys or the like arranged on the key operation unit 211). Therefore, after the charge amount is registered (specified), the screen transitions to the subtotal screen.

[0121] Step S203: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not cash has been inserted. If cash has been inserted (step S203: YES), the process proceeds to step S204. If cash has not been inserted (step S203: NO), the process proceeds to step S205.

[0122] Step S204: The POS terminal 20 counts the inserted coins, and then proceeds to step S205.

[0123] Step S205: The POS terminal 20 judges whether the inserted amount is equal to or greater than the charge amount. If the inserted amount is equal to or greater than the charge amount (Step S205: YES), the process proceeds to Step S206. If the inserted amount is not equal to or greater than the charge amount (Step S205: NO), the process returns to Step S203.

[0124] Step S206: The POS terminal 20 determines whether or not a payment operation has been performed (operation of the payment button BT02). If a payment operation has been performed (step S206: YES), the process proceeds to step S207. If a payment operation has not been performed (step S206: NO), the process returns to step S203. After the payment operation, the process transitions to the settlement screen.

[0125] Step S207: The POS terminal 20 issues a receipt. If there is change, the POS terminal 20 dispenses the change. Then, the process proceeds to step S208.

[0126] Step S208: The POS terminal 20 erases the transaction selection area for the recharge transaction. That is, the display on the store clerk display unit 210 returns to the state before the product was registered and after the A card was read.

[0127] (Explanation of the flow chart in Fig. 12) The flowchart in FIG. 12 shows the operation after the first product item has been registered and before the A card has been read.

[0128] Step S30: The POS terminal 20 registers the product. That is, the POS terminal 20 registers the product that has been read or the like in step S17 of Fig. 9 as the first product, and registers the products that have been read or the like in step S37 as the second and subsequent products. Then, proceed to step S31.

[0129] Step S31: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the A card has been read. If the A card has been read (step S31: YES), the process proceeds to step S32. If the A card has not been read (step S31: NO), the process proceeds to step S37.

[0130] Step S32: The POS terminal 20 acquires and displays customer information. For example, the POS terminal 20 acquires customer information of the customer from an external server based on the customer number read from the A card, and displays it in the customer information display area HR01. Then, proceed to step S43 in FIG.

[0131] Step S37: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the product has been read, etc. If the product has been read, etc. (Step S37: YES), the process returns to Step S30. If the product has not been read, etc. (Step S37: NO), the process proceeds to Step S38.

[0132] Step S38: The POS terminal 20 determines whether or not a subtotal operation (operation of the subtotal button BT01) has been performed. If a subtotal operation has been performed (step S38: YES), the process proceeds to step S51 in Fig. 15. If a subtotal operation has not been performed (step S38: NO), the process returns to step S31.

[0133] (Explanation of the flow chart in Fig. 13) The flowchart in FIG. 13 shows the operation after the first item of merchandise has been registered and the A card has been read.

[0134] Step S40: The POS terminal 20 registers the product. That is, the POS terminal 20 registers the product that has been read or the like in step S27 of Fig. 10 as the first product, and registers the products that have been read or the like in step S47 as the second and subsequent products. Then, proceed to step S43.

[0135] Step S43: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the A card has been cancelled. If the A card has been cancelled (step S43: YES), the process proceeds to step S44. If the A card has not been cancelled (step S43: NO), the process proceeds to step S45.

[0136] Step S44: The POS terminal 20 clears the customer information. For example, the POS terminal 20 erases the customer information that has been displayed in the customer information display area HR01. Then, the process returns to step S37 in FIG.

[0137] Step S45: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not there is a charge declaration for the A card. If there is a charge declaration (step S45: YES), the process proceeds to step S300 (charge processing). If there is no charge declaration (step S45: NO), the process proceeds to step S47.

[0138] Step S47: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the product has been read, etc. If the product has been read, etc. (Step S47: YES), the process returns to step S40. If the product has not been read, etc. (Step S47: NO), the process returns to step S48.

[0139] Step S48: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not a subtotal operation has been performed. If a subtotal operation has been performed (step S48: YES), the process proceeds to step S83 in Fig. 16. If a subtotal operation has not been performed (step S48: NO), the process returns to step S43.

[0140] (Explanation of the flow chart in FIG. 14(A)) The flowchart in Fig. 14(A) shows the operation of the charge process in step S300 in Fig. 13 (the charge process after registering one product item (before the subtotal)). After the charge process is completed, the process proceeds to step S47 in Fig. 13. The flowchart in Fig. 14(B) will be described later.

[0141] Step S301: The POS terminal 20 creates a new transaction selection area for a recharge transaction, and displays preset buttons corresponding to the recharge amount (a recharge 1000 yen button, a recharge 2000 yen button, a recharge 3000 yen button, etc.). Then, the process proceeds to step S302.

[0142] Note that the processing in steps S302 to S307 in FIG. 14A is similar to the processing in steps S202 to S207 in FIG. 11, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0143] Step S308: The POS terminal 20 erases the transaction selection area for the recharge transaction. That is, the display on the store clerk display unit 210 returns to the state after the product has been registered and the A card has been read.

[0144] (Explanation of the flow chart in Fig. 15) The flowchart in FIG. 15 shows the operation after the subtotal and before the A card is read.

[0145] Step S51: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the A card has been read. If the A card has been read (step S51: YES), the process proceeds to step S52. If the A card has not been read (step S51: NO), the process proceeds to step S59.

[0146] Step S52: The POS terminal 20 acquires and displays customer information. For example, the POS terminal 20 acquires customer information of the customer from an external server based on the customer number read from the A card, and displays it in the customer information display area HR01. Then, proceed to step S83 in FIG.

[0147] Step S59: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not a non-cash selection has been made. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 judges whether or not a credit payment selection (operation of the credit button) or a debit payment selection (operation of the debit button) has been made. If a non-cash selection has been made (Step S59: YES), the process proceeds to Step S78. If a non-cash selection has not been made (Step S59: NO), the process proceeds to Step S63.

[0148] Step S63: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not cash has been inserted. If cash has been inserted (step S63: YES), the process proceeds to step S64. If cash has not been inserted (step S63: NO), the process returns to step S51.

[0149] Step S64: The POS terminal 20 counts the inserted coins, and then proceeds to step S65.

[0150] Step S65: The POS terminal 20 judges whether the amount deposited is equal to or greater than the purchase amount (total amount). If the amount deposited is equal to or greater than the purchase amount (step S76: YES), the process proceeds to step S76. If the amount deposited is not equal to or greater than the purchase amount (step S76: NO), the process proceeds to step S73.

[0151] Step S73: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not cash has been inserted. If cash has been inserted (step S73: YES), the process proceeds to step S74. If cash has not been inserted (step S73: NO), the process returns to step S65.

[0152] Step S74: The POS terminal 20 counts the inserted coins, and then the process returns to step S65.

[0153] Step S76: The POS terminal 20 determines whether or not a payment operation has been performed. If a payment operation has been performed (step S76: YES), the process proceeds to step S77. If a payment operation has not been performed (step S76: NO), the process returns to step S73. After a payment operation has been performed, the process transitions to the settlement screen.

[0154] Step S77: The POS terminal 20 issues a receipt. If there is any change, the POS terminal 20 dispenses the change. Then, this flow chart ends.

[0155] Step S78: The POS terminal 20 executes the non-cash settlement selected in step S59, and then proceeds to step S77.

[0156] Step S77: The POS terminal 20 issues a receipt, and then this flow chart ends.

[0157] Further details regarding steps S59 and S78. In this example, the amount is input and then non-cash is selected (see message display area HR06 in FIG. 8(A)), but if the purchase amount is not reached, the input value for the amount may be corrected. Also, even if the amount (settlement amount) of one non-cash payment type does not reach the purchase amount, it is acceptable as long as the amounts of multiple payment types reach the purchase amount. Also, a payment may involve a mixture of cash and non-cash.

[0158] (Explanation of the flow chart in Figure 16) The flow chart in FIG. 16 shows the operation in the state after the subtotal and after the A card has been read.

[0159] Step S83: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not the A card has been cancelled. If the A card has been cancelled (step S83: YES), the process proceeds to step S84. If the A card has not been cancelled (step S83: NO), the process proceeds to step S85.

[0160] Step S84: The POS terminal 20 clears the customer information. For example, the POS terminal 20 erases the customer information that has been displayed in the customer information display area HR01. Then, the process returns to step S59 in FIG.

[0161] Step S85: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not there is a charge declaration for the A card. If there is a charge declaration (step S85: YES), the process proceeds to step S400 (charge processing). If there is no charge declaration (step S85: NO), the process proceeds to step S89.

[0162] Step S89: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not a non-cash selection has been made. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 judges whether or not any of the following has been made: credit payment (operation of the credit button), prepaid payment (operation of the A card prepaid button), point payment (operation of the A card point button), or debit payment (operation of the debit button). If a non-cash selection has been made (Step S89: YES), proceed to Step S108. If a non-cash selection has not been made (Step S89: NO), proceed to Step S93.

[0163] In the scene in Figure 15, the A card has not been read, so in step S59, payment related to the A card (prepaid payment or points payment) cannot be selected. However, in the scene in Figure 16, the A card has been read, so in step S89, payment related to the A card (prepaid payment or points payment) can be selected.

[0164] Step S93: The POS terminal 20 judges whether or not cash has been inserted. If cash has been inserted (step S93: YES), the process proceeds to step S94. If cash has not been inserted (step S93: NO), the process returns to step S83.

[0165] Hereinafter, the processing in steps S94 to S107 in FIG. 16 is similar to the processing in steps S64 to S77 in FIG. 15, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0166] (Explanation of the flow chart in FIG. 14(B)) The flowchart in Fig. 14(B) shows the operation in the charge process (charge process after subtotal) in step S400 in Fig. 16. After the charge process is completed, the process proceeds to step S85 in Fig. 16.

[0167] Note that the processing in steps S401 to S407 in FIG. 14B is similar to the processing in steps S301 to S307 in FIG. 14A, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0168] Step S408: The POS terminal 20 erases the transaction selection area for the recharge transaction. That is, the display on the store clerk display unit 210 returns to the state after the subtotal and after the A card has been read.

[0169] According to the flowcharts shown in Figures 9 to 16, the charge process can be performed before registering a product (charge process in step S200 in Figures 10 and 11), after registering a product and before the subtotal (charge process in step S300 in Figures 13 and 14(A)), and after the subtotal (charge process in step S400 in Figures 16 and 14(B)). According to the flowchart shown in Figure 16, the charge process can be performed after the subtotal and before selecting a payment type (selecting non-cash or inserting cash), but it may also be possible to make it possible to perform the charge process after selecting a payment type (for example, after selecting A card prepaid payment (operating the A card prepaid button)).

[0170] In step S63 of Fig. 15 (step S93 of Fig. 16), the insertion of cash is regarded as the selection of the payment type, but the user may insert cash after explicitly selecting the payment type of cash. The same applies to the charge process (S200, S300, S400).

[0171] Also, according to step S400 (charge processing) in Figures 16 and 14 (B), if the charge processing is executed from the sub-plan screen, the screen will return to the sub-plan screen after the charge processing is executed, but it is also possible to return to the registration screen instead of the sub-plan screen.

[0172] (Transaction Information) The POS terminal 20 stores the registration information of the purchased item of the customer K and the customer information of the customer K as transaction information of one transaction (or stores the registration information and the customer information in association with each other). For example, in the initial state (information as shown in FIG. 4(A)), when a barcode attached to the item is scanned (or a preset button of the item is operated), the POS terminal 20 generates and stores the registration information of the item as transaction information of one transaction. When the A card of the customer K is subsequently read, the POS terminal 20 adds the customer information of the customer K to the transaction information (or stores the customer information in association with the transaction information). Also, in the initial state, when the A card of the customer K is read, the POS terminal 20 acquires and stores the customer information of the customer K as transaction information of one transaction. When a barcode attached to the item is subsequently scanned (or a preset button of the item is operated), the POS terminal 20 adds the registration information of the item to the transaction information (or stores the customer information in association with the transaction information).

[0173] Next, the relationship between the display examples shown in Figures 4 to 8 and the flowcharts shown in Figures 9 to 16 will be explained. Figures 4 to 8 are display examples in which customer information is acquired by reading A card before registering a product, and a charge process is performed on A card after the product is registered and before the subtotal. In other words, the display examples in Figures 4 to 8 are display examples in the following sequence: Figure 9 → Figure 10 → Figure 13 → Figure 14(A) → Figure 16.

[0174] FIG. 4(A) is an example of a display at the start of the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 4B is an example of a display after the process of step S12 in the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 5(A) is a display example after the process of step S40 in the flow chart of FIG. 13 is performed three times. FIG. 5B is an example of a display after the basic preset button selection area PBS01 is operated from the display example of FIG. 5A, although this is not shown in the flowchart.

[0175] FIG. 6(A) is an example of a display after the charge declaration (operation of the A card charge button) in step S45 of the flowchart in FIG. FIG. 6B is an example of a display after the charge amount is registered (for example, the charge 1000 yen button is operated) in step S302 of the flowchart in FIG. 14A. FIG. 7(A) is an example of the display after the checkout operation (operation of the checkout button BT02) in step S306 of the flowchart in FIG. 14(A).

[0176] FIG. 7B is an example of a display after the process of step S308 in the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 8(A) is an example of the display after the subtotal operation (operation of the subtotal button BT01) in step S48 of the flowchart in FIG. FIG. 8B is an example of a display during the processing of step S108 in the flowchart of FIG.

[0177] Note that the examples shown in Figures 8(A) and (B) are not applicable because they involve prepaid payment for an amount (803 yen) less than the charge balance of Card A (1500 yen), but when an amount exceeding the balance of Card A is entered, the button for prepaid payment with Card A (Card A prepaid button) may be displayed in a display mode indicating that it is inoperable. In other words, since the charge balance is 1500 yen in the scene of Figure 8(A), even if 803 yen, which is less than 1500 yen, is entered, the Card A prepaid button remains in an operable display mode, and prepaid payment with Card A is possible, but if the charge balance is 500 yen in the scene of Figure 8(A), when 803 yen, which exceeds 500 yen, is entered, the Card A prepaid button may change to an inoperable display mode, and prepaid payment with Card A is not possible.

[0178] In addition, in Figures 4 to 8, a prepaid settlement of A card is executed after A card is charged, but as shown in the flowcharts of Figures 15 and 16, the settlement after A card is charged may be a settlement other than a prepaid settlement of A card. For example, a cash settlement or a credit settlement may be executed after A card is charged.

[0179] (Next Customer Registration Button BT03) Next, the next customer registration button BT03 will be described. The next customer registration button BT03 shown in FIG. 4(A) etc. is a button for starting a transaction (next customer transaction) of another customer (second customer, next customer) when a transaction of a certain customer (first customer) is pending. When the next customer registration button BT03 is operated when a transaction of the first customer is pending, the POS terminal 20 suspends the transaction of the first customer and starts the transaction of the second customer (putting the transaction of the first customer pending and putting the transaction of the second customer on hold). Specifically, when the next customer registration button BT03 is operated, the POS terminal 20 generates a new transaction selection area for the transaction of the second customer, separate from the transaction selection area of ​​the transaction (transaction of the first customer) that was active before the operation of the next customer registration button BT03, and activates the newly generated transaction selection area for the transaction of the second customer (deactivating the transaction selection area for the transaction of the first customer). In other words, before the Next Customer Registration button BT03 is operated, the transaction of the first customer corresponding to the transaction selection area for the first customer's transaction is valid (active), so when, for example, a product is scanned, the POS terminal 20 processes the registration information of that product as the registration information of the first customer's transaction. However, after the Next Customer Registration button BT03 is operated, the transaction of the second customer corresponding to the transaction selection area for the second customer's transaction becomes valid (active), so when, for example, a product is scanned, the POS terminal 20 processes the registration information of that product as the registration information of the second customer's transaction.

[0180] When the transaction of the second customer is completed, the suspended transaction of the first customer is resumed. Specifically, when the transaction of the second customer is completed, the POS terminal 20 erases the transaction selection area for the transaction of the second customer and activates the transaction selection area for the transaction of the first customer. In other words, after the transaction of the second customer is completed, the transaction of the first customer corresponding to the transaction selection area for the transaction of the first customer becomes valid (active), so that when a product is scanned, for example, the POS terminal 20 processes the registration information of the product as the registration information of the transaction of the first customer.

[0181] The transaction of the first customer and the transaction of the second customer are independent transactions by different customers. Therefore, when the POS terminal 20 interrupts the transaction of the first customer and starts the transaction of the second customer (when the next customer registration button BT03 is operated), the information of the transaction of the first customer (customer information, etc.) is not carried over to the transaction of the second customer. In addition, when the transaction of the second customer is completed and the interrupted transaction of the first customer is resumed, the POS terminal 20 does not reflect the information of the transaction of the second customer (registered product information, etc.) in the transaction of the first customer.

[0182] (Difference between next customer transaction using the next customer registration button BT03 and charge transaction using charge declaration) Fig. 17 is an explanatory diagram summarizing the differences between a next customer transaction using the next customer registration button BT03 and a charge transaction using a charge declaration. In Fig. 17, line a explains the next customer transaction using the next customer registration button BT03. Line b explains the charge transaction using a charge declaration.

[0183] As shown in column c, if the next customer registration button BT03 is operated while the first transaction (a transaction for product registration processing) is pending, a second transaction (a transaction for next customer) is started. The second transaction (a transaction for next customer) is, for example, a transaction for product registration processing. On the other hand, if the charge button is operated (a charge declaration is made) while the first transaction is pending, a second transaction (a charge transaction) is started.

[0184] As shown in column d, in the case of a next customer transaction, a transaction selection area for the next customer transaction, which is the second transaction, is generated at the start of the next customer transaction. Similarly, in the case of a charge transaction, a transaction selection area for the charge transaction, which is the second transaction, is generated at the start of the charge transaction. However, the customer for the next customer transaction (second transaction) is a different customer from the customer for the first transaction, but the customer for the charge transaction (second transaction) is the same customer as the customer for the first transaction.

[0185] As shown in column e, in the case of a next customer transaction, the customer of the second transaction is a different customer (next customer) from the customer of the first transaction, so the information of the first transaction is not carried over to the second transaction at the start of the second transaction (next customer transaction). On the other hand, in the case of a charge transaction, the customer of the second transaction is the same as the customer of the first transaction, so the information of the first transaction is carried over to the second transaction at the start of the second transaction (charge transaction).

[0186] As shown in column f, in the case of a transaction by a subsequent customer, the transaction selection area for the subsequent customer transaction (the second transaction) is erased at the end of the subsequent customer transaction. Also, in the case of a charge transaction, the transaction selection area for the charge transaction (the second transaction) is erased at the end of the charge transaction.

[0187] As shown in column g, in the case of a next customer transaction, the customer of the second transaction is a different customer (next customer) from the customer of the first transaction, so the information of the second transaction (next customer transaction) is not reflected in the first transaction at the end of the second transaction (next customer transaction). On the other hand, in the case of a charge transaction, the customer of the second transaction is the same as the customer of the first transaction, so the information of the second transaction is carried over to the first transaction at the end of the second transaction (charge transaction).

[0188] In other words, when the next customer registration button BT03 is operated while a first transaction is pending, the POS terminal 20 suspends the first transaction, starts a second transaction as a transaction with a different customer than the first transaction without inheriting the information of the first transaction, and resumes the first transaction after the second transaction is completed without reflecting the processing results of the second transaction. On the other hand, when the charge button is operated while a first transaction is pending, the POS terminal 20 suspends the first transaction, starts a second transaction as a transaction with the same customer as the first transaction by inheriting the information of the first transaction, and resumes the first transaction after the second transaction is completed by reflecting the processing results of the second transaction.

[0189] As described above, the operation after the operation differs between when the Next Customer Registration button BT03 is operated while the first transaction is pending and when the Next Customer Registration button BT03 is operated while the first transaction is pending, but both cases have in common the point that a transaction selection area is generated as a new transaction. In other words, just as the POS terminal 20 processes the registration process of the next customer's product after the operation of the Next Customer Registration button BT03 as a separate transaction executed under a separate selection area, it also processes the charge process after the operation of the charge button as a separate transaction executed under a separate selection area (however, there is a difference as to whether the information of the original transaction is carried over to the separate transaction or the processing result of the separate transaction is reflected in the original transaction).

[0190] As described above, according to the POS terminal 20, if the next customer registration button BT03 is operated during a transaction by a certain customer, a transaction by another customer (such as a transaction for registering a product) can be inserted as a separate transaction completely independent of the transaction by that customer. Also, according to the POS terminal 20, if the charge button is operated (a charge declaration is made) during a transaction by a certain customer, the transaction by that customer (a charge transaction) can be inserted as a separate transaction related to that customer.

[0191] In addition, if the charge process is canceled after the charge declaration (for example, if the charge is canceled based on the operation of a cancel button not shown), the processing contents up to the cancellation will not be reflected in the customer information (prepaid balance) of the customer.

[0192] In the above, an example was described in which the customer information of the first transaction is carried over to the second transaction as information of the first transaction when the charge button is operated (when a charge declaration is made) while the first transaction is pending, but the registered information of the first transaction may also be carried over to the second transaction as information of the first transaction. By carrying over the registered information of the first transaction to the second transaction, for example, if a prepaid settlement is made after the first transaction is resumed based on the current charge balance constituting the customer information and the registered information (the total amount of products registered up until just before the charge declaration), the charge amount required at the current time (up until just before the charge declaration) may be displayed in the second transaction, or instead of or in addition to displaying the required charge amount, a charge button that does not cover the required amount may be made inactive. For example, if the charge balance is 500 yen and the total amount of the products registered up until the time of the charge declaration is 2,800 yen, the required charge amount of "2,300 yen" may be displayed, and the Charge 1,000 yen button and Charge 2,000 yen button, which are less than 2,300 yen, may be made inactive.

[0193] In addition, in the above, the charge process for a certain customer while the process for that customer is in progress has been described, but the charge process for another customer while the process for that customer is in progress can also be executed. Specifically, a second transaction (a transaction for registering a product for customer Y using the next customer registration button BT03) may be inserted during a first transaction (a transaction for registering a product for customer X), and a third transaction (a charge transaction for customer Y using the next customer registration button BT03) may be inserted during the second transaction, and the second transaction may be resumed after the third transaction is completed, and the first transaction may be resumed after the second transaction is completed. In this example, it goes without saying that the information of the first transaction is not carried over to the second transaction when the second transaction starts, but the information of the second transaction is carried over to the third transaction when the third transaction starts. Furthermore, when the third transaction is completed, the information (processing result) of the third transaction is reflected in the second transaction, but when the second transaction is completed, the information (processing result) of the second transaction is not reflected in the first transaction.

[0194] In the above embodiment, in order to avoid complication, the next customer registration button BT03 cannot be operated during a charge transaction (see Fig. 6(B) to Fig. 7(A)). However, the next customer registration button BT03 may be operated even during a charge transaction. In other words, a second transaction (a charge transaction by customer A by a charge declaration) may be inserted during a first transaction (a transaction for registering products of customer A), and a third transaction (a transaction for registering products of customer B by the next customer registration button BT03) may be inserted during the second transaction, and the second transaction may be resumed after the third transaction is completed, and the first transaction may be resumed after the second transaction is completed. In this example, it goes without saying that the information of the first transaction is carried over to the second transaction when the second transaction starts, but the information of the second transaction (and the information of the first transaction) is not carried over to the third transaction when the third transaction starts. Furthermore, when the third transaction is completed, the information (processing result) of the third transaction is not reflected in the second transaction (nor in the first transaction), but when the second transaction is completed, the information (processing result) of the second transaction is reflected in the first transaction.

[0195] In the above embodiment, an example of charging a prepaid card when purchasing a product (when registering the product and paying for it) has been mainly described, but it is of course also possible to simply charge a prepaid card using the POS terminal 20 without purchasing a product.

[0196] As described above, the POS terminal 20 can easily execute a process for charging a prepaid card of a certain customer while executing a process for selling the product of the certain customer. Also, the POS terminal 20 can execute a process for charging (for example, by executing the same operation) appropriately (at any timing from before registering one product item to after selecting a payment type). Also, the POS terminal 20 can execute a process for charging (for example, by executing the same operation) many times within a certain transaction.

[0197] (Screen name) In the above explanation, the screen before the operation of the subtotal button BT01 is called the registration screen, the screen after the operation of the subtotal button BT01 is called the subtotal screen, and the screen after the operation of the billing button BT02 is called the settlement screen, but these names are only examples. For example, the screen before the operation of the billing button BT02 (both before and after the operation of the subtotal button BT01) may be called the registration screen, and the screen after the operation of the billing button BT02 may be called the settlement screen. Also, for example, the screen before the operation of the subtotal button BT01 may be called the registration screen, and the screen after the operation of the subtotal button BT01 (both before and after the operation of the billing button BT02) may be called the subtotal screen. Also, for example, all screens, including the screen after the operation of the billing button BT02, may be called the registration screen.

[0198] (Other operation modes) 4 to 16, the POS terminal 20 is described as operating in the normal mode (face-to-face semi-self-service mode), but the same applies to other operation modes. As an example, when the operation mode is the full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 may display the screens (for example, screens customized for customer operation) as shown in Figs. 4 to 8 on the customer-side display unit 205.

[0199] Although the embodiments have been described above, the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the specific configurations are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and designs that do not deviate from the gist of the invention are also included.

[0200] (1) In the above embodiment, the POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes (the operation modes are switchable), but the POS terminal 20 does not necessarily have to have a plurality of operation modes.

[0201] (2) In the above embodiment, the POS terminal 20 has the card payment unit 208 on the customer side, but it may be provided on the store clerk side instead of or in addition to the customer side. In other words, the operation to read the information on various cards (or mobile terminals, etc.) may be performed by the customer or the store clerk.

[0202] (3) In the above embodiment, the POS terminal 20 has the change dispenser 209 on the customer side, but it may be provided on the store clerk side instead of or in addition to the customer side. In other words, the handling of cash may be performed by the customer or the store clerk.

[0203] (4) In relation to the above (1) to (3), a general POS terminal used by a store clerk (a POS terminal in which a change dispenser is provided on the store clerk's side and the store clerk registers and settles the bill) may be configured to perform the displays shown in Figures 4 to 8 and the operations shown in Figures 9 to 16. Also, a general self-service POS terminal used by a customer (a POS terminal in which a customer registers and settles the bill; the customer operates the change dispenser) may be configured to perform the displays shown in Figures 4 to 8 and the operations shown in Figures 9 to 16.

[0204] (5) In the above, an example has been described in which the POS terminal 20 acquires customer information (such as a charge balance) using a card such as an A card, but the customer information may be acquired using something other than a card. For example, the customer information may be acquired using an electronic device (such as a smartphone).

[0205] In addition, all or part of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of each device (POS terminal 20, monitoring device 40, store controller 10) described above may be possessed by a subject (another device) different from the subject described above. For example, in the above embodiment, the POS terminal 20 has been described as making various judgments (for example, some or all of the various judgments shown by diamonds in the flowcharts of Figs. 9 to 16), but the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may make such judgments instead of the POS terminal 20. In addition, the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may store transaction data (registration information, customer identification information, etc.) instead of the POS terminal 20. In addition, the POS terminal 20 may generate display information (screen information) for various displays (for example, the screens of Figs. 4 to 8, etc.), or the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may generate such information. To put it simply, the POS terminal 20 is only responsible for output to the operator and each component and input from the operator and each component (screen display, control of the change machine, voice output, acceptance of screen operations, recognition by the scanner unit, etc.), and judgment, storage, generation, etc. may be performed by the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown), etc.

[0206] The embodiments will be summarized below. [Technical field] The present invention relates to a product sales data processing device and a program. [Background technology] There is known a technique for charging (depositing) electronic money without interrupting the electronic money settlement procedure (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-75986 A [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, the operation of charging at a POS terminal etc. is time-consuming and places a burden on the operator. The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technology that allows charging to be easily performed at a POS terminal etc. [Means for solving the problem] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a product sales data processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a product sales data processing device (e.g., a POS terminal 20) that registers products purchased by a customer, and is characterized in that it comprises: first processing means for generating and processing, as a first process (e.g., product registration process), first processing data including registration information of the products purchased by the customer and identification information of the customer (e.g., a customer number); second processing means for generating and processing, as a second process (e.g., charge process based on a charge declaration) second processing data (e.g., data related to the charge amount) based on the deposit operation when a predetermined deposit operation (e.g., operation of a preset button corresponding to the charge amount, such as the charge 1000 yen button after a charge declaration) is performed during the processing of the first process by the first processing means; and handover means for handing over the first processing data to the second process started based on the predetermined deposit operation. According to the product sales data processing device of (1) above, charging can be easily performed. That is, if a predetermined deposit operation (operation of a preset button corresponding to the charge amount after the charge declaration) is performed during the first process (during the process related to the sale of a product to a certain customer), the second process (charging process by the charge declaration) is started, but since the first process data (registered information of the purchased product of the customer and the identification information of the customer) are taken over to the second process, the process related to charging the prepaid card of the customer can be started easily without requiring any special operation by using the first process data in the second process. In addition, since no special operation is required at the start of the second process, it is expected that the psychological burden of the operator (especially an operator who is not familiar with charge transactions, etc.) at the start of the second process and the operation mistakes at the start of the second process can be reduced. (2) A product sales data processing device as described in (1), characterized in that it is provided with a reflection means for reflecting the second processing data in the first processing (e.g., updating the charge balance) when the second processing started based on the deposit operation during the processing of the first processing is completed. According to the product sales data processing device of (2) above, charging can be easily performed. In other words, when the second process (charging process by charge declaration) that started based on a deposit operation (operation of a preset button corresponding to the charge amount after the charge declaration) during the first process (processing related to the sale of a product by a certain customer) is completed, the second process data (data related to the charge amount) is reflected in the first process (updating the charge balance, etc.), so that the processing result of the second process can be easily reflected in the first process without requiring any special operation. In addition, since no special operation is required at the end of the second process, it is expected that the psychological burden of the operator (especially an operator who is not familiar with charge transactions, etc.) at the end of the second process and the operation mistakes at the start of the second process can be reduced. (3) A product sales data processing device as described in (1) or (2), characterized in that it is provided with a display means for displaying a selection area (e.g., a transaction selection area) in which each transaction can be selected, and the display means displays a button for the first process (e.g., a preset button as shown in Figure 5(A)) in association with one of the selection areas (e.g., transaction selection area TRS01, etc.) during the processing of the first process, and when a deposit operation is performed during the processing of the first process, displays a button for the second process (e.g., a preset button as shown in Figure 6(A)) in association with a new selection area (e.g., transaction selection area TRS02, etc.) different from the selection area displaying the button for the first process. According to the product sales data processing device of (3) above, charging can be easily performed. That is, if there is a deposit operation (operation of a preset button corresponding to the charge amount after charging declaration) during the processing of the first process (during the processing of a process related to the sale of a product by a certain customer), a selection area for the second process is generated separately from the selection area for the first process, and a button for the second process (a preset button corresponding to the charge amount such as a charge 1000 yen button) is displayed under the selection area for the second process, so that the operation is easy for the operator (store clerk, customer) to understand and charging can be easily performed. In addition, just as the next customer process (the registration process of the product of the next customer after the operation of the next customer registration button BT03) is performed under a separate selection area, the second process based on a predetermined deposit operation (operation of a preset button corresponding to the charge amount after charging declaration) is also performed under a separate selection area. That is, although the two differ in terms of the identity of the customer and the presence or absence of handover or reflection, they are common in that they are performed under a selection area separate from that before the operation (FIG. 17). Therefore, it is easy for the operator to intuitively understand that the second process is a different transaction from the first process. For example, it becomes easier to understand that a receipt is issued as a second process separate from a first process. (4) The product sales data processing device described in (3) is characterized in that the display means erases the selection area displaying the button for the second processing based on the completion of the second processing (for example, erases the transaction selection area TRS02 as in Figure 6(B) → Figure 7(A) → Figure 7(B)). According to the product sales data processing device of (4) above, charging can be easily performed. In other words, the selection area for the second process, which is newly generated separately from the selection area for the first process, is erased without requiring any special operation when the second process is completed, so the burden on the operator (store clerk, customer) is light. (5) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a product sales data processing device that registers products purchased by a customer to function as a computer, the program causing the computer to function as first processing means that generates and processes, as a first process, first processing data including registration information for the products purchased by the customer and identification information for the customer, second processing means that, when a specified deposit operation is performed while the first process is being performed by the first processing means, generates and processes, as a second process, second processing data based on the deposit operation, and a handover means that hands over the first processing data to the second process that is started based on the specified deposit operation. According to the program of (5) above, charging can be easily performed, similarly to the product sales data processing device of (1) above. In addition, because it is simple, it is possible to reduce operational errors.

[0207] The programs for implementing the above-described POS terminal 20, store controller 10, monitoring device 40, etc. may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the programs 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 flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also refers to storage devices that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) in a computer system that becomes a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The above-mentioned program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device, etc., 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 above-mentioned 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]

[0208] 1. POS System 10. Store Controller 20 POS terminals 40 Monitoring equipment 201 CPU 202 ROM 204 Hard Disk 205 Customer side display section 206 Customer side scanner unit 208 Card Payment Department 209 Change machine 210 Clerk side display section 211 Key operation section 212 Store clerk scanner unit 213 Printing Department 214 Audio output section 215 Communications Department

Claims

1. A product sales data processing device having a display unit capable of receiving operations and a key operation unit capable of receiving operations, A product registration means for executing a product registration process for registering purchased products; A charging means for executing a charging process of electronic money; a transfer means for transferring processing data generated in the product registration processing to the charge processing when the charge processing is started during a transaction of the product registration processing; a message means for displaying a message regarding the operation on the display unit; Equipped with The charging means is In the charge process, a charge amount can be designated based on the operation of one of a plurality of amount buttons corresponding to each charge amount displayed on the display unit, and a charge amount can be designated based on the operation of a numeric key arranged on the key operation unit, The message means includes: A different message can be displayed on the display unit for the product registration process and the charge process, In the charge process, a message is displayed on the display unit to the effect that the charge amount designation is accepted based on the operation of one of the plurality of amount buttons or the operation of a numeric key arranged on the key operation unit. A product sales data processing device comprising:

2. A reflecting means for reflecting processing data generated in the charge processing in the product registration processing when the charge processing started during the transaction of the product registration processing is completed. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. A program for causing a computer to function as a product sales data processing device having a display unit capable of receiving operations and a key operation unit capable of receiving operations, The computer, A product registration means for executing a product registration process for registering purchased products; A charging means for executing a charging process of electronic money; a transfer means for transferring processing data generated in the product registration processing to the charge processing when the charge processing is started during a transaction of the product registration processing; a message means for displaying a message regarding the operation on the display unit; Functioning as a The charging means is In the charge process, a charge amount can be designated based on the operation of one of a plurality of amount buttons corresponding to each charge amount displayed on the display unit, and a charge amount can be designated based on the operation of a numeric key arranged on the key operation unit, The message means includes: A different message can be displayed on the display unit for the product registration process and the charge process, In the charge process, a message is displayed on the display unit to the effect that the charge amount designation is accepted based on the operation of one of the plurality of amount buttons or the operation of a numeric key arranged on the key operation unit. A program characterized by:

Images