Product sales data processing system, product sales data processing device and control program therefor, and product sales data processing method

Abstract

To set a courtesy rank for each of a plurality of courtesy groups for each member and provide a privilege in accordance with the courtesy rank.SOLUTION: First storage means stores discount rates for courtesy ranks that respectively correspond to two or more courtesy discount groups. Second storage means stores a courtesy rank for each of the courtesy discount groups that each correspond to a member identification code for identifying each member. Third storage means stores any of the courtesy discount groups in correspondence to each commodity to which a courtesy discount is applied. Receiving means receives input of a commodity to be purchased by the member. First acquisition means acquires a courtesy discount group corresponding to the commodity. Second acquisition means acquires a courtesy rank corresponding to the member identification code of the member who purchases the commodity. Third acquisition means acquires a discount rate for the courtesy rank from the discount rates for courtesy ranks corresponding to the courtesy discount group. Processing means subjects sales data on the commodity to discount processing at the discount rate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a merchandise sales data processing system, a merchandise sales data processing device and a control program therefor, and a merchandise sales data processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Some relatively large retail stores, such as department stores and chain stores, rank their members according to the level of use of the store. For example, members are given one of several ranks based on the total purchase amount of products purchased at the store. The unit price of products, discount rate, etc. are set for each rank. Such retail stores handle multiple product groups (food, clothing, daily necessities, home appliances, etc.). For this reason, there is variation in the product groups purchased by members, for example, a member may purchase food frequently but daily necessities infrequently. However, with a single preferential rank given to a member, it is not possible to set a high discount rate for food that is purchased frequently and a low discount rate for daily necessities that are purchased infrequently. Therefore, there is a need to establish a system in which preferential ranks are set for multiple preferential groups for each member and benefits are granted according to the preferential rank. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-221014 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide a product sales data processing system, a product sales data processing device and its control program, and a product sales data processing method that can set a preferential rank for each of multiple preferential groups for each member and grant benefits according to that preferential rank. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In one embodiment, the product sales data processing system includes a first storage means, a second storage means, a third storage means, a receiving means, a first acquisition means, a second acquisition means, a third acquisition means, and a processing means. The first storage means stores discount rates by preferential ranks corresponding to two or more types of preferential discount groups. The second storage means stores preferential ranks for each preferential discount group corresponding to a member identification code that identifies each member. The third storage means stores any of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which a preferential discount is applied. The receiving means receives input of a product to be purchased by a member. The first acquisition means acquires from the third storage means the preferential discount group stored corresponding to the product inputted by the receiving means. The second acquisition means acquires from the second storage means the preferential rank stored corresponding to the member identification code of the member who purchases the product inputted by the receiving means. The third acquisition means acquires the discount rate of the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means from the discount rates by preferential rank stored in the first storage means corresponding to the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means. The processing means discounts the sales data of the product inputted and accepted by the acceptance means according to the discount rate acquired by the third acquisition means. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a product sales data processing system according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of a member server. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of a member data record stored in a member database. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main circuit configuration of a store server. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of an item data record stored in an item master file. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a linking table. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a group 1 table. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a group 2 table. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the accounting machine. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a transaction memory. [Figure 11] 4 is a flowchart showing a main control procedure of a processor in the accounting machine. [Figure 12] 4 is a flowchart showing a main control procedure of a processor in the accounting machine. [Figure 13] 11 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a main part of a processor in the member server. [Figure 14] 11 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a main part of a processor in the member server. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a receipt. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Each embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a product sales data processing system S according to the present embodiment. The product sales data processing system S includes a member server 10, a store server 20, and a payment machine 30. The member server 10, the store server 20, and the payment machine 30 are connected to a communication network 40 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The member server 10 is a computer that manages information about members of the store in which the product sales data processing system S has been installed, and executes various information processing related to the members. The store server 20 is a computer that manages information about products sold in the store in which the product sales data processing system S has been installed, and executes various information processing related to the products. The payment machine 30 is a device that enables a store clerk or a member to perform the payment for purchased products. There is no particular limit to the number of payment machines 30.

[0009] 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the member server 10. The member server 10 is equipped with a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, a communication interface 14, and a system transmission path 15. The system transmission path 15 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The member server 10 connects the processor 11, main memory 12, auxiliary storage device 13, and communication interface 14 to the system transmission path 15. In the member server 10, a computer is made up of the processor 11, main memory 12, auxiliary storage device 13, and the system transmission path 15 that connects them.

[0010] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 11 controls each part to realize various functions of the member server 10 according to an operating system or application programs. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0011] The main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 12 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores data required for the processor 11 to execute processes for controlling each part in the volatile memory area. The main memory 12 also uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 11. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0012] The auxiliary storage device 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. As the auxiliary storage device 13, for example, a well-known storage device such as an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a HDD (Hard Disc Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) is used alone or in combination. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores data used by the processor 11 when performing various processes and data generated by the processes in the processor 11. The auxiliary storage device 13 may also store an application program.

[0013] The communication interface 14 is a circuit for performing data communication with other devices connected via a communication network 40 .

[0014] The member server 10 configured as above stores a member database 131 in the auxiliary storage device 13. The member database 131 saves member data records 1311 (see FIG. 3) that describe member data for each member.

[0015] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of member data record 1311 stored in member database 131. As shown in Fig. 3, member data record 1311 stores member data created for each member. Member data record 1311 includes items such as member ID, name, sex, email address, cumulative purchase amount of group 1, cumulative purchase amount of group 2, preferential rank, etc. Note that the items related to members are not limited to the above items. The member ID is a member identification code that identifies each member. The group 1 cumulative purchase amount is the total price of products belonging to the preferential discount group 1 that the member purchased at the store. The preferential discount group 1 is one of the groups to which products eligible for preferential discounts belong, which are preset by the store. The preferential discount group 1 will be referred to simply as group 1 below. The group 2 cumulative purchase amount is the total price of products belonging to the preferential discount group 2 that the member purchased at the store. The preferential discount group 2 is one of the groups to which products eligible for preferential discounts belong, which are preset by the store. The preferential discount group 2 will be referred to simply as group 2 below. The preferential rank is composed of the group 1 rank and the group 2 rank. The group 1 rank is a rank determined based on the group 1 cumulative purchase amount. The group 1 rank is ranked from rank "0" to rank "p". The rank "p" is any integer equal to or greater than 1. Rank "0" is set when there is no group 1 cumulative purchase amount or when the group 1 cumulative purchase amount does not meet the predetermined condition preset by the store. When there is a group 1 cumulative purchase amount and it meets the predetermined condition, one of ranks from rank "1" to rank "p" is set. The higher the group 1 cumulative purchase amount, the higher the group 1 rank. The group 2 rank is determined based on the group 2 cumulative purchase amount. The group 2 rank is ranked from rank "0" to rank "q". Rank "q" is an arbitrary integer of 1 or more. Rank "0" is set when there is no group 2 cumulative purchase amount or when the group 2 cumulative purchase amount does not meet the predetermined condition preset by the store. When there is a group 2 cumulative purchase amount and it meets the predetermined condition, one of ranks from rank "1" to rank "q" is set. The higher the group 2 cumulative purchase amount, the higher the group 2 rank. In this way, ranks are set for each group for the members.

[0016] In this embodiment, the preferential rank is a two-digit number. The number in the tens digit indicates the group 1 rank. The number in the ones digit indicates the group 2 rank. For example, if the preferential rank is preferential rank "12", this means that the group 1 rank is "1" and the group 2 rank is "2". For example, if the preferential rank is preferential rank "03", this means that the group 1 rank is "0" and the group 2 rank is "3". For example, if the preferential rank is preferential rank "20", this means that the group 1 rank is "2" and the group 2 rank is "0".

[0017] In this way, the member database 131 functions as a second storage means for storing the preferential rank for each preferential discount group in correspondence with the member identification code, i.e., the member ID, which identifies each member. The second storage means can be referred to as a second storage unit.

[0018] 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store server 20. The store server 20 includes a processor 21, a main memory 22, an auxiliary storage device 23, a communication interface 24, and a system transmission path 25. The system transmission path 25 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The store server 20 connects the processor 21, the main memory 22, the auxiliary storage device 23, and the communication interface 24 to the system transmission path 25. In the store server 20, the processor 21, the main memory 22, the auxiliary storage device 23, and the system transmission path 25 that connects them together constitute a computer.

[0019] The processor 21 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 21 controls each part to realize various functions of the store server 20 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU.

[0020] The main memory 22 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 22 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 22 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 22 stores data required for the processor 21 to execute processes for controlling each part in the volatile memory area. The main memory 22 also uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 21. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0021] The auxiliary storage device 23 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. As the auxiliary storage device 23, for example, a well-known storage device such as an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD is used alone or in combination. The auxiliary storage device 23 stores data used by the processor 21 when performing various processes and data generated by the processes in the processor 21. The auxiliary storage device 23 may also store application programs.

[0022] The communication interface 24 is a circuit for performing data communication with other devices connected via a communication network 40 .

[0023] The store server 20 having such a configuration stores an item master file 231 (see FIG. 5) in the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0024] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of an item data record 2311 stored in the item master file 231. As shown in Fig. 5, the item data record 2311 stores item data generated for each item. The item data record 2311 includes items such as an item code, a classification code, a product name, and a unit price. Note that the items related to an item are not limited to the above items. The item code is a unique identification code set for each item. An item is one item of a product. Many products are given a product barcode, which is a barcode of the item code of the product. The category code is an identification code that indicates the category to which the product identified by the corresponding item code belongs. The category is the type of product. Examples of categories include food, clothing, daily necessities, and home appliances. Food may also be further subdivided into categories such as fresh food, processed food, beverages, and sweets. The same applies to clothing, daily necessities, and home appliances. A unique category code is set in advance for each category. The unit price is the price per item of the product.

[0025] Returning to the explanation of Figure 4. The store server 20 configured as above uses a part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 22 as an area for the linking table 221 (see FIG. 6), the group 1 table 222 (see FIG. 7), and the group 2 table 223 (see FIG. 8). The store server 20 forms the linking table 221, the group 1 table 222, and the group 2 table 223 in this area.

[0026] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the linking table 221. As shown in Fig. 6, the linking table 221 is a data table in which preferential discount groups are described in correspondence with classification codes. Group 1 or group 2 is described in the preferential discount group. If the classification code corresponding to the product belongs to group 1, group 1 is described in the preferential discount group. If the classification code corresponding to the product belongs to group 2, group 2 is described in the preferential discount group.

[0027] The third storage means stores any of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which the preferential discount is applied. That is, the third storage means has a function of storing the linking table 221. The third storage means can be referred to as a third storage unit.

[0028] Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of group 1 table 222. As shown in Fig. 7, group 1 table 222 is a data table describing group 1 discount rates corresponding to group 1 ranks. The group 1 discount rate is the discount rate when selling products belonging to group 1 to members with corresponding group 1 ranks from "1" to "p". The higher the group 1 rank, the larger the group 1 discount rate.

[0029] Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of group 2 table 223. As shown in Fig. 8, group 2 table 223 is a data table describing group 2 discount rates corresponding to group 2 ranks. The group 2 discount rate is the discount rate when selling products belonging to group 2 to members with the corresponding group 2 ranks from "1" to "q". The higher the group 2 rank, the larger the group 2 discount rate.

[0030] In this way, the group 1 table 222 and the group 2 table 223 function as a first storage means for storing discount rates by preferential rank in correspondence with two or more preferential discount groups. The first storage means can be referred to as a first storage unit.

[0031] 9 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the accounting machine 30. The accounting machine 30 includes a processor 311, a main memory 312, an auxiliary storage device 313, a clock 314, a change machine interface 315, a communication interface 316, a touch panel 317, a scanner 318, a printer 319, a reader 320, and a system transmission path 321. The system transmission path 321 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 321 interconnects the processor 311 with the main memory 312, the auxiliary storage device 313, the clock 314, the change machine interface 315, the communication interface 316, the touch panel 317, the scanner 318, the printer 319, and the reader 320. The processor 311, the main memory 312, and the auxiliary storage device 313 are connected by the system transmission path 321 to form a computer of the accounting machine 30.

[0032] The processor 311 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 311 controls each part to realize various functions of the payment machine 30 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 311 is, for example, a CPU.

[0033] The main memory 312 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 312 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 312 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 312 may store data required for the processor 311 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 312 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 311. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0034] The auxiliary storage device 313 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 313. The auxiliary storage device 313 stores data used by the processor 311 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 311, etc. The auxiliary storage device 313 may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0035] The application programs stored in the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313 include a control program that describes information processing executed by the accounting machine 30. There are no particular limitations on the method for installing the control program into the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313. The control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or distributed by communication via a network, and installed into the main memory 312 or the auxiliary storage device 313. The recording medium can be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0036] The clock 314 functions as a time information source for the payment device 30. The processor 311 keeps track of the current date and time based on the time information kept by the clock 314.

[0037] The change machine interface 315 performs data communication with the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 315 receives data on the inserted amount, data on the number of stored coins, etc. from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 315 transmits change data to the automatic change machine.

[0038] The communication interface 316 is connected to the communication network 40. The communication interface 316 performs data communication with other devices connected via the communication network 40 in accordance with a communication protocol.

[0039] The touch panel 317 is a device that serves as both an input device and a display device for the payment machine 30. The touch panel 317 detects a touch position on a displayed image, and outputs the touch position information to the processor 311.

[0040] The scanner 318 is an example of a reading device that reads code symbols such as a barcode symbol and a QR code (registered trademark) and outputs the read data to the processor 311. The scanner 318 may be a type that reads a code symbol by scanning with a laser beam, or a type that reads a code symbol from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0041] The printer 319 issues receipts by printing various characters or images on receipt paper. This type of printer 319 may be, for example, a thermal printer or a dot-matrix printer. The printer 319 functions as a printing device for the accounting machine 30.

[0042] Reader 320 reads data recorded on the recording medium and outputs the read data to processor 311. Reader 320 is a magnetic card reader when the recording medium is a magnetic card, and is an IC card reader when the recording medium is a contact IC card. In the case of a recording medium using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) such as a contactless IC card or a smartphone, an RFID reader is used as reader 320.

[0043] The payment machine 30 configured as above uses a part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 312 as the transaction memory 3121 (see FIG. 10). The payment machine 30 forms the transaction memory 3121 in this area.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the transaction memory 3121. The transaction memory 3121 stores data related to commercial transactions with members. The data related to commercial transactions includes sales data of purchased products, such as single item code, product name, unit price, purchase number, purchase amount, preferential discount group, group 1 discount amount, group 2 discount amount, etc. The purchase number is the purchase number of products identified by the single item code, and the purchase amount is the amount obtained by multiplying the unit price and the purchase number. The preferential discount group is the group to which the product identified by the single item code belongs. For example, if the purchased product belongs to group 1, "1" is set. If the purchased product belongs to group 2, "2" is set. If the purchased product does not belong to any group, "0" is set. The group 1 discount amount is a discount amount calculated based on the group 1 discount rate corresponding to the group 1 rank in the group 1 table 222. The group 1 discount amount is the amount obtained by multiplying the purchase amount and the group 1 discount rate. If the purchased item does not belong to group 1, or if the purchased item belongs to group 1 but the member's group 1 rank is "0", a NULL value is set for the group 1 discount amount. The group 2 discount amount is a discount amount calculated based on the group 2 discount rate corresponding to the group 2 rank in group 2 table 223. The group 2 discount amount is the purchase amount multiplied by the group 2 discount rate. If the purchased item does not belong to group 2, or if the purchased item belongs to group 2 but the member's group 2 rank is "0", a NULL value is set for the group 2 discount amount. Transaction memory 3121 is created in association with a member ID.

[0045] The processor 311 has functions as a reception means 3111, a first acquisition means 3112, a second acquisition means 3113, a third acquisition means 3114, a processing means 3115, and an output means 3116. The reception means 3111 has a function of receiving input of a product to be purchased by a member.

[0046] The first acquisition means 3112 is a function for acquiring, from the third storage means, that is, the linking table 221, a special discount group stored in association with the product whose input has been accepted by the acceptance means 3111.

[0047] The second acquisition means 3113 is a function for acquiring, from the second storage means, that is, the member database 131, a preferential rank stored in association with the member ID of the person who will purchase the product whose input has been accepted by the acceptance means 3111.

[0048] The third acquisition means 3114 is a function for acquiring the discount rate of the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means 3113 from the discount rates by preferential rank stored in the first storage means, i.e., the group 1 table 222 and the group 2 table 223, corresponding to the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means 3112.

[0049] The processing means 3115 is a function for discounting the sales data of the product, the input of which is accepted by the acceptance means 3111, using the discount rate acquired by the third acquisition means 3114.

[0050] The output means 3116 is a function for outputting information specifying the preferential discount group stored in association with the product together with the sales data of the product discounted by the processing means 3115.

[0051] Figures 11 and 12 are flow charts showing the main control procedures executed by the processor 311 in the payment machine 30 according to a control program. Figures 13 and 14 are flow charts showing the main control procedures executed by the processor 11 in the member server 10 according to a control program.

[0052] Below, the main operations of the product sales data processing system S will be explained using these flow charts. Note that the operations explained below are just an example. As long as similar results can be obtained, the procedure is not particularly limited.

[0053] First, when the payment machine 30 in the store is started up, the processor 311 starts information processing according to the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. In this embodiment, the payment device 30 acquires the linking table 221 in advance from the store server 20 using the function of the first acquisition means 3112, and stores the linking table 221 in part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 312. The payment device 30 also acquires the group 1 table 222 and the group 2 table 223 in advance from the store server 20, and stores the group 1 table 222 and the group 2 table 223 in part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 312.

[0054] When a purchaser, who is a member, finishes shopping, he or she goes to the cash register to pay. The member has a member card on which his or her member ID is recorded. In ACT1, processor 311 waits for the data on the member card to be read by scanner 318 or reader 320. If the data on the member card has been read, processor 311 determines YES in ACT1 and proceeds to ACT2.

[0055] Processor 311 controls communication interface 316 to send a membership command as ACT2 to member server 10. This control causes communication interface 316 to send the membership command. The membership command includes the member ID of the membership card read by scanner 318 or reader 320.

[0056] When the processor 11 of the member server 10 receives the member command, it starts a command reception process according to the procedure shown in the flow chart of FIG.

[0057] Processor 11 detects the member ID from the member command in ACT 31. Processor 11 then authenticates the member identified by that member ID in ACT 32. Specifically, processor 11 checks whether member data record 1311 including that member ID exists in member database 131.

[0058] If the corresponding member data record 1311 does not exist in the member database 131, the processor 11 judges NO in ACT32 and proceeds to ACT33. The processor 11 controls the communication interface 14 to send a denial response command to the payment device 30 in ACT33. This control causes the communication interface 14 to send the denial response command. The denial response command is received by the payment device 30 via the communication network 40.

[0059] If the corresponding member data record 1311 exists in the member database 131, the processor 11 judges YES in ACT 32 and proceeds to ACT 34. The processor 11 acquires the preferential rank stored in the corresponding member data record 1311 in ACT 34.

[0060] The processor 11 controls the communication interface 14 to send an approval response command to the payment device 30 as ACT35. This control causes the approval response command to be sent from the communication interface 14. The approval response command is received by the payment device 30 via the communication network 40. The approval response command includes the member ID and the preferential rank.

[0061] In this way, the member server 10 that receives the member command sends a denial or approval response command in ACT 33 or ACT 35 to the payment device 30 that sent the member command. Once the processor 11 has finished sending either response command, it ends the member command receiving process.

[0062] Returning to the explanation of Figure 11. The processor 311 of the payment device 30, which controlled the transmission of the member command in ACT2, waits in ACT3 for an approval response command from the member server 10. If a denial response command is received from the member server 10, the processor 311 judges NO in ACT3 and returns to ACT1.

[0063] If an approval response command is received from the member server 10, the processor 311 determines YES in ACT3 and proceeds to ACT4. In ACT4, the processor 311 stores the preferential rank included in the approval response command in the main memory 312 using the function of the second acquisition means 3113. The processor 311 also stores the member ID included in the approval response command in the main memory 312.

[0064] In ACT5, the processor 211 displays a purchase registration screen on the touch panel 317. The purchase registration screen has an area for displaying the product name, purchase price, and total price of the product that has been registered for purchase.

[0065] As ACT6, the processor 311 checks whether or not a purchase registration has been performed using the function of the reception means 3111. Specifically, when the barcode of the purchased item is read by the scanner 318, or when the processor 311 detects that a button for an item without a barcode has been touched by a signal from the touch panel 317, the processor 311 recognizes that the purchased item has been registered.

[0066] If a purchase registration has been made, the processor 311 determines YES in ACT6 and proceeds to ACT8 in FIG.

[0067] The processor 311 detects the single item code in ACT8. The processor 311 queries the store server 20 for the single item data record 2311 using that single item code in ACT9. In response to this query, the store server 20 extracts the single item data record 2311 in which the queried single item code is stored from the single item master file 231, and transmits the single item data record 2311 to the accounting machine 30. The processor 311 then waits to receive the single item data record 2311 in ACT10. If the single item data record 2311 is received, the processor 311 determines YES in ACT10 and proceeds to ACT11.

[0068] The processor 311 checks in ACT11 whether or not a classification code written in the same row as the item code stored in the item data record 2311 exists in the linking table 221. If the classification code does not exist in the linking table 221, the processor 311 judges NO in ACT11 and proceeds to ACT17.

[0069] The processor 311 writes the sales data to the transaction memory 3121 as ACT17. In this case, since the classification code does not exist in the linking table 221, the purchased product does not belong to the preferential discount group. Therefore, "0" is set to the preferential discount group in the transaction memory 3121. In addition, NULL values ​​are set to the group 1 discount amount and group 2 discount amount.

[0070] The processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen in ACT 18. That is, the processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen so that the product name, unit price, number of items, and purchase amount of the product registered for purchase are added, and the purchase amount is added to the total amount. Then, the processor 311 returns to ACT 6 in FIG. 11.

[0071] If the classification code exists in the linking table 221, the processor 311 determines YES in ACT 11 and proceeds to ACT 12. In ACT 12, the processor 311 checks whether the preferential discount group corresponding to the classification code is group 1 or not.

[0072] If the preferential discount group is group 1, the processor 311 judges YES in ACT 12 and proceeds to ACT 14. The processor 311 checks whether the group 1 rank of the preferential rank stored in the main memory 312 in ACT 14 is set to any of ranks "1" to "p".

[0073] If any of ranks "1" to "p" has not been set, i.e., if group 1 rank is rank "0", processor 311 judges NO in ACT14 and proceeds to ACT17. Processor 311 writes the sales data to transaction memory 3121 in ACT17. In this case, since the preferential discount group is group 1, "1" is set to the preferential discount group in transaction memory 3121. Since group 1 rank is rank "0", a NULL value is set to the group 1 discount amount. Incidentally, a NULL value is set to the group 2 discount amount. After that, processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen in ACT18, and returns to ACT6 of FIG. 11.

[0074] If any of ranks "1" to "p" is set, processor 311 determines YES in ACT 14 and proceeds to ACT 15. In ACT 15, processor 311 searches group 1 table 222 using the function of third acquisition means 3114 to acquire the group 1 discount rate corresponding to the group 1 rank.

[0075] The processor 311 calculates the group 1 discount amount based on the group 1 discount rate by the function of the processing means 3115 as ACT16.

[0076] The processor 311 writes the sales data in the transaction memory 3121 in ACT17. In this case, since the preferential discount group is group 1, "1" is set in the preferential discount group in the transaction memory 3121. The group 1 discount amount calculated in the processing of ACT16 is written in the group 1 discount amount. Note that a NULL value is set in the group 2 discount amount.

[0077] The processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen in ACT 18. That is, the processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen so that the product name, unit price, number of items, purchase amount, and group 1 discount amount of the product registered for purchase are added, and the amount obtained by subtracting the group 1 discount amount from the purchase amount is added to the total amount. Then, the processor 311 returns to ACT 6 in FIG. 11.

[0078] If the preferential discount group is not group 1, the preferential discount group is group 2. Therefore, if the preferential discount group is not group 1, the processor 311 judges NO in ACT 12 and proceeds to ACT 13. In ACT 13, the processor 311 checks whether any of ranks "1" to "q" is set as the group 2 rank.

[0079] If any of ranks "1" to "q" has not been set, i.e., if group 2 rank is rank "0", processor 311 judges NO in ACT13 and proceeds to ACT17. Processor 311 writes the sales data to transaction memory 3121 in ACT17. In this case, since the preferential discount group is group 2, "2" is set in the preferential discount group in transaction memory 3121. Since group 2 rank is rank "0", a NULL value is set in the group 2 discount amount. Incidentally, a NULL value is set in the group 1 discount amount. After that, processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen in ACT18, and returns to ACT6 in FIG. 11.

[0080] If any of ranks "1" to "q" is set, processor 311 determines YES in ACT 13 and proceeds to ACT 19. In ACT 19, processor 311 searches group 2 table 223 using the function of third acquisition means 3114 to acquire the group 2 discount rate corresponding to that group 2 rank. In ACT 20, processor 311 calculates the group 2 discount amount based on the group 2 discount rate using the function of processing means 3115.

[0081] The processor 311 writes the sales data to the transaction memory 3121 as ACT17. In this case, since the preferential discount group is group 2, "2" is set in the preferential discount group in the transaction memory 3121. The group 2 discount amount calculated in the processing of ACT21 is written in the group 2 discount amount. Note that a NULL value is set in the group 1 discount amount.

[0082] The processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen in ACT 18. That is, the processor 311 updates the purchase registration screen so that the product name, unit price, number of items, purchase amount, and group 2 discount amount of the product registered for purchase are added, and the amount obtained by subtracting the group 2 discount amount from the purchase amount is added to the total amount. Then, the processor 311 returns to ACT 6 in FIG. 11.

[0083] If purchase registration has not been completed, processor 311 determines NO in ACT6 and proceeds to ACT7. In ACT7, processor 311 checks whether purchase registration has been completed. Specifically, when processor 311 detects that the subtotal button has been touched by a signal from touch panel 317, it recognizes that purchase registration has been completed. If purchase registration has not been completed, processor 311 determines NO in ACT7 and returns to ACT6. That is, processor 311 returns to the standby state for ACT6 to ACT7.

[0084] If the purchase registration is completed, the processor 311 determines YES in ACT7 and proceeds to ACT21. In ACT21, the processor 311 calculates the group 1 cumulative purchase amount and the group 2 cumulative purchase amount based on the transaction memory 3121. The group 1 cumulative purchase amount is the total amount of the purchase amount of each purchased item whose preferential discount group in the transaction memory 3121 is set to "1". The group 2 cumulative purchase amount is the total amount of the purchase amount of each purchased item whose preferential discount group in the transaction memory 3121 is set to "2". Then, the processor 311 stores the group 1 cumulative purchase amount and the group 2 cumulative purchase amount in the main memory 312.

[0085] The processor 311 displays a payment screen on the touch panel 317 as ACT 22. The payment screen displays, for example, the total price of the products registered for purchase.

[0086] The processor 311 executes the payment process as the ACT 23. The payment process is a well-known process, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0087] The processor 311, acting as ACT24, controls the printer 319 using the function of the output means 3116 to print the receipt 100 (see FIG. 15).

[0088] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a receipt 100. As shown in FIG. 15, the receipt 100 prints detailed information and accounting information of the purchased product. If there is a purchased product to which a preferential discount has been applied, the detailed information of the purchased product further displays an image of a mark M indicating that the purchased product belongs to group 1 or group 2, a group 1 discount amount or group 2 discount amount, a group 1 discount rate or group 2 discount rate, and text data explaining the mark M. The mark M is a figure for identifying the preferential discount group to which the purchased product to which the preferential discount has been applied belongs. The mark M is information for identifying the preferential discount group. The mark M is not limited to a figure, and may be anything that can identify each preferential discount group. In the case of FIG. 15, since the product BBB is a purchased product belonging to group 1, a circle mark is displayed as the mark M. In addition, the group 1 discount amount calculated based on the group 1 discount rate of 4 percent is displayed. Since the product EEE is a purchased product belonging to group 2, a diamond mark is displayed as the mark M. In addition, the group 2 discount amount calculated based on the group 2 discount rate of 3 percent is displayed. Since the product KKK is a purchased product to which the preferential discount is not applied, the mark M, the discount amount, and the discount rate are not displayed. Note that the contents and images of the text data displayed in FIG. 15 are merely examples.

[0089] Returning to the explanation of Figure 11. The processor 311 controls the communication interface 316 to send an update command as ACT25 to the member server 10. This control causes the communication interface 316 to send the update command. The update command includes the member ID, and the group 1 cumulative purchase amount and group 2 cumulative purchase amount stored in the main memory 312.

[0090] The processor 11 of the member server 10 that receives the update command starts a command reception process according to the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG.

[0091] Processor 11 detects the member ID from the update command as ACT 41. Processor 11 then extracts member data record 1311 corresponding to that member ID as ACT 42.

[0092] Processor 11 updates member data record 1311 as ACT43. Specifically, the group 1 cumulative purchase amount included in the update command is added to the group 1 cumulative purchase amount in member data record 1311 to update it to the newly calculated group 1 cumulative purchase amount. Also, the group 2 cumulative purchase amount included in the update command is added to the group 2 cumulative purchase amount in member data record 1311 to update it to the newly calculated group 2 cumulative purchase amount. With this, processor 11 ends the update command reception process.

[0093] In such a product sales data processing system S, first, when the member ID of the member card is read by the scanner 318 or the reader 320, the member's preferential rank is obtained. When a purchase registration is performed, if a classification code corresponding to the single item code of the purchased product exists in the linking table 221, it is confirmed whether the preferential discount group corresponding to the classification code is group 1 or group 2. If it is group 1 and any of ranks from "1" to "p" is set as the group 1 rank, the group 1 discount rate corresponding to the group 1 rank is obtained from the group 1 table 222. Then, the group 1 discount amount is calculated based on the group 1 discount rate. On the other hand, if the preferential discount group corresponding to the classification code is group 2 and any of ranks from "1" to "q" is set as the group 2 rank, the group 2 discount rate corresponding to the group 2 rank is obtained from the group 2 table 223. Then, the group 2 discount amount is calculated based on the group 2 discount rate. Therefore, it is possible to set a preferential rank for each of multiple preferential groups for each member and apply a preferential discount according to the preferential rank.

[0094] Furthermore, if there is a purchased item to which a preferential discount has been applied, the receipt 100 further displays mark M, the discount amount, the discount rate, and text data explaining mark M. Therefore, the member can check the sales data of the discounted purchased item as well as the preferential discount group to which the purchased item belongs by mark M.

[0095] Although the embodiments of the product sales data processing system, the product sales data processing device and its control program, and the product sales data processing method have been described above, the embodiments are not limited to these.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the preferential discount groups are exemplified by two types, group 1 and group 2. However, the preferential discount groups are not limited to group 1 and group 2, as long as they are two or more types.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the preferential rank is exemplified as a two-digit number, such as preferential rank "12", where the tens digit number indicates group 1 rank and the ones digit number indicates group 2 rank. The preferential rank is not limited to a two-digit number. For example, the preferential rank may be independent for each preferential discount group, such as preferential rank "1" as group 1 rank and preferential rank "2" as group 2 rank.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the preferential rank is determined based on the cumulative purchase amount of group 1 and the cumulative purchase amount of group 2. For example, the preferential rank may be determined based on the ratio of the cumulative purchase amount of group 1 and the ratio of the cumulative purchase amount of group 2 to the cumulative purchase amount of all purchased products at the store.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the classification code is an identification code that indicates the classification to which the product belongs. For example, a medium classification code, a small classification code, etc. may be set as a subcode of the classification code. For example, in the case of clothing, clothing items subdivided into men's and women's clothing may be set as medium classification codes, and clothing items for men may be further subdivided into men's jackets, etc., and set as small classification codes. In this case, the linking table 221 may describe a preferential discount group corresponding to the medium classification code or small classification code.

[0100] In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the payment machine 30 obtains the linking table 221, the group 1 table 222, and the group 2 table 223 in advance from the store server 20. For example, the payment machine 30 may obtain the linking table 221, the group 1 table 222, or the group 2 table 223 from the store server 20 as necessary. In addition, for example, the payment machine 30 may obtain the single item master file 231 from the store server 20 in advance.

[0101] In the above embodiment, it has been described that the linking table 221, the group 1 table 222, and the group 2 table 223 are formed in a portion of the volatile memory area in the main memory 22 of the store server 20. For example, the linking table 221, the group 1 table 222, and the group 2 table 223 may be formed in a portion of the volatile memory area in the main memory 312 of the payment device 30.

[0102] In the above embodiment, a receipt 100 is issued. For example, a member who is registered with an electronic receipt service may set up a mobile device such as a smartphone owned by the member so that image data of the receipt can be obtained.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the benefit is a preferential discount. For example, the benefit may be an increased rate of service points, a coupon, or the like.

[0104] Although several other embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope of the invention and the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. In addition, the claims as originally filed of this application are set forth below. [C1] A first storage means for storing discount rates by preferential rank corresponding to each of two or more preferential discount groups; A second storage means for storing a preferential rank for each preferential discount group in correspondence with a member identification code for identifying each member; a third storage means for storing any one of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which the preferential discount is applied; A receiving means for receiving an input of a product to be purchased by the member; a first acquisition means for acquiring from the third storage means a special discount group stored in association with the product inputted and accepted by the acceptance means; a second acquisition means for acquiring from the second storage means a preferential rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of a member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted by the acceptance means; A third acquisition means for acquiring a discount rate for the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means from discount rates for the preferential ranks stored in the first storage means in correspondence with the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means; a processing means for performing discount processing on the sales data of the product inputted and accepted by the accepting means, based on the discount rate acquired by the third acquiring means; A product sales data processing system comprising: [C2] an output means for outputting information specifying a special discount group stored in association with the product together with the sales data of the product discounted by the processing means; The product sales data processing system according to [C1], further comprising: [C3] A product sales data processing device comprising: a first storage means for storing discount rates by preferential ranks corresponding to two or more types of preferential discount groups; a second storage means for storing preferential ranks for each preferential discount group corresponding to a member identification code that identifies each member; and a third storage means for storing any of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which a preferential discount is applied, A receiving means for receiving an input of a product to be purchased by the member; a first acquisition means for acquiring from the third storage means a special discount group stored in association with the product inputted and accepted by the acceptance means; a second acquisition means for acquiring from the second storage means a preferential rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of a member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted by the acceptance means; A third acquisition means for acquiring a discount rate for the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means from discount rates for the preferential ranks stored in the first storage means in correspondence with the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means; a processing means for performing discount processing on the sales data of the product inputted and accepted by the accepting means, based on the discount rate acquired by the third acquiring means; A product sales data processing device comprising: [C4] A product sales data processing device includes a first memory section for storing discount rates by preferential rank corresponding to two or more types of preferential discount groups, a second memory section for storing preferential ranks for each preferential discount group corresponding to a member identification code that identifies each member, and a third memory section for storing any one of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which a preferential discount is applied, Accepting input of the product to be purchased by said member; Obtaining from the third storage unit a special discount group stored in association with the product whose input has been accepted; obtain from the second storage unit a preferential rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of a member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted; Obtaining a discount rate for the obtained preferential rank from discount rates for each preferential rank stored in the first storage unit corresponding to the obtained preferential discount group; The merchandise sales data processing method includes discount processing the merchandise sales data inputted and accepted based on the obtained discount rate. [C5] A computer of a product sales data processing device, a first storage means for storing discount rates by preferential rank corresponding to each of two or more preferential discount groups; a second storage means for storing a preferential rank for each preferential discount group in correspondence with a member identification code for identifying each member; a third storage means for storing any one of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which the preferential discount is applied; A receiving means for receiving input of products to be purchased by said member; a first acquisition means for acquiring from said third storage means a special discount group stored in correspondence with the product inputted and accepted by said acceptance means; a second acquisition means for acquiring from the second storage means a preferential rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of a member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted by the acceptance means; A third acquisition means for acquiring a discount rate for the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means from discount rates for the preferential ranks stored in the first storage means in correspondence with the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means; and a processing means for performing discount processing on the sales data of the product inputted and accepted by the accepting means, based on the discount rate acquired by the third acquiring means; A control program that functions as a [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 10...membership server, 11, 21, 311...processor, 12, 22, 312...main memory, 13, 23, 313...auxiliary storage device, 14, 24, 316...communication interface, 15, 25, 321...system transmission path, 20...store server, 30...accounting machine, 40...communication network, 131...membership database, 221...linking table, 222...group 1 table, 223...group 2 table, 231...single item mass file, 314...clock, 315...change machine interface, 317...touch panel, 318...scanner, 319...printer, 320...reader, 1311...membership data record, 2311...single item data record, 3121...transaction memory, S...product sales data processing system, 3111...reception means, 3112...first acquisition means, 3113...second acquisition means, 3114...third acquisition means, 3115...processing means, 3116...output means.

Claims

1. a first storage means for storing discount rates by preferential rank corresponding to each of two or more preferential discount groups; A second storage means for storing a preferential rank for each preferential discount group in correspondence with a member identification code for identifying each member; a third storage means for storing any one of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which the preferential discount is applied; A receiving means for receiving an input of a product to be purchased by the member; a first acquisition means for acquiring from the third storage means a special discount group stored in association with the product inputted by the reception means; a second acquisition means for acquiring from the second storage means a preferential rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of a member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted by the acceptance means; a third acquisition means for acquiring a discount rate for the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means from discount rates for the preferential ranks stored in the first storage means in correspondence with the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means; a processing means for performing discount processing on the sales data of the product inputted and accepted by the accepting means, based on the discount rate acquired by the third acquiring means; A product sales data processing system comprising:

2. an output means for outputting information specifying a special discount group stored in association with the product together with the sales data of the product discounted by the processing means; 2. The product sales data processing system according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. A product sales data processing device comprising: a communication means for communicating data with a server having a second storage means for storing a preferential rank for each preferential discount group, each corresponding to a member identification code that identifies each member; a first storage means for storing a discount rate for each preferential rank, each corresponding to two or more preferential discount groups; and a third storage means for storing one of the preferential discount groups, each corresponding to each product to which a preferential discount is applied; A receiving means for receiving an input of a product to be purchased by the member; a first acquisition means for acquiring from the third storage means a special discount group stored in association with the product inputted by the reception means; a second acquiring means for acquiring from the server a preferential rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of a member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted by the accepting means; a third acquisition means for acquiring a discount rate for the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means from discount rates for the preferential ranks stored in the first storage means in correspondence with the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means; a processing means for performing discount processing on the sales data of the product inputted and accepted by the accepting means, based on the discount rate acquired by the third acquiring means; A product sales data processing device comprising:

4. A product sales data processing device comprising: a communication unit for performing data communication with a server having a second memory unit for storing a preferential rank for each preferential discount group, each corresponding to a member identification code which identifies each member; a first memory unit for storing a discount rate for each preferential rank, each corresponding to two or more preferential discount groups; and a third memory unit for storing one of the preferential discount groups, each corresponding to each product to which a preferential discount is applied; Accept the input of the product to be purchased by the member; Obtaining from the third storage unit a special discount group stored in association with the product whose input has been accepted; obtain from the server a special rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of the member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted; Obtaining a discount rate for the obtained preferential rank from discount rates for each preferential rank stored in the first storage unit corresponding to the obtained preferential discount group; The merchandise sales data processing method includes discount processing the merchandise sales data inputted and accepted based on the obtained discount rate.

5. A computer of a product sales data processing device, a communication means for performing data communication with a server having a second storage means for storing a preferential rank for each preferential discount group in correspondence with each member identification code for identifying each member; a first storage means for storing discount rates by preferential rank corresponding to each of two or more preferential discount groups; a third storage means for storing any one of the preferential discount groups corresponding to each product to which the preferential discount is applied; A receiving means for receiving input of products to be purchased by said member; a first acquisition means for acquiring from said third storage means a special discount group stored in correspondence with the product inputted and accepted by said acceptance means; a second acquiring means for acquiring from the server a preferential rank stored in correspondence with a member identification code of a member who purchases the product whose input has been accepted by the accepting means; a third acquisition means for acquiring a discount rate for the preferential rank acquired by the second acquisition means from discount rates for the preferential ranks stored in the first storage means in correspondence with the preferential discount group acquired by the first acquisition means; and a processing means for performing discount processing on the sales data of the product inputted and accepted by the accepting means, based on the discount rate acquired by the third acquiring means; A control program that functions as a

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