System, product sales data processing device, program

Abstract

To provide efficient customer service.SOLUTION: An item sales data processing device can display on a display unit a registration screen for customers to register items by themselves or a settlement screen for customers to make settlement by themselves. The item sales data processing device includes: detection means for detecting the presence or absence of information on settlements to be processed by an own device; and control means for displaying the settlement screen on the display unit when the information on the settlement is detected by the detection means while the own device is not being operated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to S Stem, Product sales data processing device; Regarding the program. [Background technology]

[0002] A sales processing device has been proposed that controls whether to perform a first processing mode in which operations are performed by a store clerk, or a second processing mode in which at least a part of the series of sales processes is performed by the customer (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-102856 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the sales processing device shown in the cited document 1 has a problem in that it is not possible to efficiently handle customers.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique that enables efficient customer handling. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing device that is capable of displaying on a display unit a registration screen for customers to register products themselves, or a settlement screen for customers to settle their own payments, and is equipped with a detection means for detecting the presence or absence of settlement information that the device should process, and a control means for displaying the settlement screen on the display unit when the detection means detects information regarding the settlement when the device is not being operated.

[0007] According to the above, customers can be handled efficiently.

[0008] The product sales data processing device may include an acquisition means for acquiring product registration data, and the detection means may detect the registration data acquired by the acquisition means as information relating to the settlement.

[0009] According to the above, customers can be handled efficiently.

[0010] In the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, when the control means detects information regarding the settlement while the device is being operated, it may control the display unit to display the settlement screen after the operation is completed, and when the control means does not detect information regarding the settlement while the device is being operated, it may control the display unit to display the registration screen or a registration start screen that allows the customer to start product registration themselves after the operation is completed.

[0011] According to the above, customers can be handled efficiently.

[0012] The product sales data processing device may further include an output unit that outputs information notifying the start of display of at least one of the settlement screen and the registration screen when the screen is displayed on the display unit.

[0013] Based on the above, it is possible to notify about the screen display.

[0014] In the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, the control means may determine the start of settlement processing based on the processing status of the device itself, and when the processing status of the device itself is in a specified status, may control so that settlement processing based on information regarding the settlement newly detected by the detection means is not started.

[0015] Based on the above, it is possible to control whether or not to receive the registration data depending on the processing status of the own device.

[0016] In the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, the control means may output information indicating the processing status of the device itself so that settlement processing based on information regarding the settlement newly detected by the detection means is not started when the processing status of the device itself is in a specified status.

[0017] Based on the above, it is possible to suitably control transmission of registration data from another device to the own device.

[0018] In the above-mentioned product sales data processing device, the specified situation may be any one of a situation in which the deposited amount has not been determined, a situation in which the dispensed change has not been removed, or a situation in which the issued receipt has not been removed.

[0019] Based on the above, it is possible to suitably control reception of registration data based on whether or not the process of the own device will soon be completed.

[0020] In order to achieve the above object, a merchandise sales data processing system according to another aspect of the present invention is a merchandise sales data processing system including the above-mentioned merchandise sales data processing device.

[0021] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to function as a product sales data processing device capable of displaying on a display unit a registration screen for customers to register products themselves, or a settlement screen for customers to settle payments themselves, and is characterized in that it causes the computer to function as a detection means for detecting the presence or absence of settlement information that the device should process, and as a control means for displaying the settlement screen on the display unit when the detection means detects information regarding the settlement when the device is not being operated. Effect of the Invention

[0022] As described above, customer handling can be carried out efficiently. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a first POS terminal. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of installation of a second POS terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a second POS terminal. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a second POS terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of an operation mode of the second POS terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of an operation mode of the second POS terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of an operation mode of the second POS terminal. [Figure 9] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit of the first POS terminal. [Figure 10] 13 is a display example on a first POS terminal. [Figure 11] 13 is a display example on a first POS terminal. [Figure 12] 13 is a display example of the second POS terminal in the full self-service mode. [Figure 13] 13 is a display example of the second POS terminal in the full self-service mode. [Figure 14] 13 is a display example of the second POS terminal in the semi-selfie mode. [Figure 15] 13 is a display example of the second POS terminal in the semi-selfie mode. [Figure 16] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS system. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second POS terminal. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second POS terminal. [Figure 19] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second POS terminal and the like. [Figure 20]4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the first POS terminal. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second POS terminal. [Figure 22] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a send button for sending registration information. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] Fig. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes a first POS terminal 10, a second POS terminal 20-1, a second POS terminal 20-2, a store controller (store computer) 30, and a monitoring terminal 40, which are communicatively connected via a LAN 11. Hereinafter, when there is no particular distinction between the second POS terminals 20-1 and 20-2, they will be collectively referred to as the second POS terminal 20.

[0025] The second POS terminal 20 is a POS terminal that has multiple operation modes (described in detail below) for registration and settlement processing and has a function of switching between the operation modes as appropriate, whereas the first POS terminal 10 is a POS terminal that does not have the above-mentioned functions.

[0026] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first POS terminal 10. As shown in Fig. 2, the first POS terminal 10 includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a hard disk 104, a customer display unit 105, a card payment unit 108, a change dispenser 109, a store clerk display unit 110, a key operation unit 111, a scanner unit 112, a printer unit 113, an audio output unit 114, and a communication unit 115. These can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0027] The CPU 101 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the first POS terminal 10 by reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 102 . The ROM 102 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 101, including programs.

[0028] The RAM 103 is a read / write memory and stores various information. For example, the RAM 103 stores information acquired from the outside (e.g., a product master acquired from the store controller 30) and information generated in the process (e.g., registration information generated in the registration process, settlement information generated in the settlement process, etc.). In the following description, either or both of the registration information and the settlement information may be referred to as transaction information.

[0029] The hard disk 104 stores various information. For example, the hard disk 104 may store programs executed by the CPU 101 instead of the ROM 102. Also, instead of the RAM 103, the hard disk 104 may store information acquired from the outside and information generated during processing.

[0030] The customer-side display unit 105 is a touch display for customers, which displays various information to customers and accepts various inputs from customers. The card settlement unit 108 is a settlement mechanism using various cards (credit cards, transportation cards, etc.). The change machine 109 (cash settlement unit) is a mechanism for settlement with cash, and 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 amount of change, which is the difference between the input amount and the purchase amount, and outputs the change from the output port. The change machine 109 faces the store clerk and is operated by the store clerk.

[0031] The store clerk's display unit 110 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 111 is made up of various keys (buttons) and receives various inputs from the store clerk. Scanner unit 112 optically reads, for example, bar codes (product codes, etc.) attached to products, store clerk codes attached to store clerk name tags, and the like.

[0032] Scanner unit 112 is used when a store clerk registers a product, but the store clerk may register the product by other methods. For example, if a key corresponding to a product (such as a key corresponding to a sports newspaper) is arranged on key operation unit 111, the store clerk can operate (press) that key to register the product. Also, if a preset key (preset button) corresponding to a product is displayed on store clerk-side display unit 110, the store clerk can operate that preset key to register the product.

[0033] The printing unit 113 is a printing unit that ejects media, and prints and issues various media such as receipts. The audio output unit 114 outputs audio. The communication unit 115 transmits and receives information to and from other terminals (the second POS terminal 20, the store controller 30, and the monitoring terminal 40).

[0034] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of installation of the second POS terminal 20. Fig. 3(A) is a perspective view of the second POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the customer side. Fig. 3(B) is a perspective view of the second POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in Fig. 3(A), a counter is placed to the right of the second POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side.

[0035] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the second POS terminal 20. Fig. 4(A) is a perspective view of the second POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Fig. 4(B) is a perspective view of the second POS terminal 20 as seen from the store clerk side. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second POS terminal 20. In Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the same parts are given the same symbols.

[0036] An example of the configuration of the second POS terminal 20 shown in Fig. 5 will be described below with reference to Fig. 4. The second 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.

[0037] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the second 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.

[0038] 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 master acquired from the store controller 30) and information generated during processing (e.g., registration information generated during registration processing, settlement information generated during settlement processing, etc.).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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 customer use, and optically reads, for example, bar codes (product codes, etc.) attached to products.

[0041] 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 product order button or the like is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205, the customer can operate (press) the order button to register the product.

[0042] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism that accepts various cards (credit cards, transportation cards, etc.). The card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit, but it is sufficient that the card payment unit 208 includes at least the card recognition unit.

[0043] The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a mechanism for settlement with cash, and 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 amount of change, 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.

[0044] 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 (buttons) and receives various inputs from the store clerk. The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for use by the store clerk, and optically reads, for example, bar codes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and store clerk codes attached to the name tags of store clerks.

[0045] 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 can operate (press) that key to register the product. Also, if a preset key corresponding to a product is displayed on the store clerk's display unit 210, the store clerk can operate that preset key to register the product.

[0046] Printing unit 213 is a printing unit that ejects media, and prints and issues various media such as receipts. Printing unit 213 is a single printing unit that can be freely rotated to face from the store clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the store clerk side (direction of the media issuing port). The orientation of the printing unit may be changed manually, or may be changed automatically (mechanically controlled, etc.) in response to, for example, a transition in operating mode (details described later). The correctness of the orientation of the printing unit may be detected by a sensor or the like.

[0047] 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 (the first POS terminal 10, the other second POS terminals 20, the store controller 30, and the monitoring terminal 40).

[0048] (Overview of each operation mode) Next, the operation modes of the second POS terminal 20 will be described. The second POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes. For example, the second POS terminal 20 has a normal mode, a full self-service mode, and a semi-self-service mode. Note that the operation modes described below are operation modes during normal business (operation modes related to product registration processing and accounting processing), and do not include a counting mode for counting and inquiring sales and inventory, a maintenance mode for a store clerk or maintenance staff to perform setting and maintenance work, a training mode for training new employees, etc.

[0049] 6 to 8 are diagrams for explaining the outline of the operation modes of the second POS terminal 20. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the normal mode. FIG. 6(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (product registration process, accounting process) and the actions of people (clerks, customers) in the normal mode, and FIG. 6(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of operations of the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the full self-service mode. FIG. 7(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (product registration process, accounting process) and the actions of people (customers) in the full self-service mode, and FIG. 7(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of operations of the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the semi-self-service mode. FIG. 8(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (product registration process, accounting process) and the actions of people (customers) in the semi-self-service mode, and FIGS. 8(B) and 8(C) are flowcharts showing the basic flow of operations of the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode.

[0050] In the following description, as a separate aspect from the classification of the above-mentioned operation modes (normal mode, full self-service mode, semi-self-service mode), the mode in which the second POS terminal 20 executes the product registration process may be referred to as the registration mode, and the mode in which it executes the settlement process as the payment mode.

[0051] (Normal mode) The normal mode is an operation mode in which the clerk executes the registration process and the customer executes the payment process, as shown in Fig. 6(A). That is, in the normal mode, the clerk is in the registration mode and the customer is in the payment mode, as shown in Fig. 6(B). In other words, the second POS terminal 20 operates in the registration and payment mode from the overall process from registration to payment.

[0052] In the normal mode, the store clerk registers the purchased items of the customer on the store clerk side (store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211). In other words, the second POS terminal 20 executes the registration process of the purchased items by the operation of the store clerk (operation of the store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211, etc.) (upper part of FIG. 6(A)).

[0053] When the clerk has completed the registration process, the customer checks the total amount of the purchased items on the clerk display unit 210, and settles the bill by inserting coins into the change machine 209 or operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 6(A)). In other words, the second POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 6(A)).

[0054] That is, in the normal mode, as shown in Fig. 6(B), first, the clerk side scans the product, for example, by the clerk side scanner unit 212 (step S10: YES), and registers the product (step S11). After the subtotal key (for example, the subtotal key displayed on the clerk side display unit 210 or the subtotal key arranged on the key operation unit 211) is pressed (step S30: YES), the customer side settles the bill, for example, by the change dispenser 209 (step S50), and the process is completed. The subtotal key in step S30 is an operation key for completing the registration process, and may also be called a subtotal button, a registration completion key, a registration completion button, a bill key, or a bill button.

[0055] The customer may wait until the registration process is completed by the store clerk (until the total amount is finalized), or may insert money into the change dispenser 209 before the registration process is completed. In other words, the second POS terminal 20 can accept deposits during the registration process (upper part of FIG. 6(A)).

[0056] The store clerk may wait until the customer completes the payment (until the customer receives the change and receipt), but may also register the items purchased by the next customer. That is, the second POS terminal 20 can register the items purchased by the next customer during the payment process (lower part of FIG. 6(A)). The store clerk may be absent while the customer is paying (lower part of FIG. 6(A)). That is, the store clerk may finish serving the customer while the customer is paying.

[0057] Furthermore, when there is change, the second POS terminal 20 controls the dispenser 209 to dispense the change and the change note to prevent the customer from forgetting to take the change, and controls the printing unit 213 to issue a receipt after detecting by a sensor or the like that the customer has removed the change and the change note. The same applies to other operation modes. As described above, in normal mode, there is a case where a store clerk is present in front of the customer who receives the change, and there is a case where there is a store clerk. If there is a store clerk, the above-mentioned control does not necessarily have to be performed (i.e., the dispense of the change and the change note and the issue of the receipt may be performed simultaneously, or the receipt may be issued first). In addition, the timing of the dispense of the change and the change note and the issue of the receipt may be controlled depending on the current operation mode and the presence / absence of a store clerk (for example, the presence / absence of a store clerk is detected by a sensor).

[0058] (Full self mode) The full self-service mode is an operation mode in which the customer side performs the registration process and the payment process, as shown in Fig. 7(A). That is, in the full self-service mode, the customer side is in both the registration mode and the payment mode, as shown in Fig. 7(B). In other words, the second POS terminal 20 operates in the registration and payment mode from the overall process from registration to payment.

[0059] In the full self-service mode, the customer registers the purchased items on the customer side (customer side scanner unit 206, customer side display unit 205). In other words, the second POS terminal 20 executes the registration process of the purchased items by the customer's operation (scanning by the customer side scanner unit 206, touching the customer side display unit 205) (upper part of FIG. 7(A)).

[0060] When the registration process is completed, the customer checks the total amount of the purchased items on the customer side display unit 205, and settles the bill by inserting coins into the change machine 209 or operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 7(A)). In other words, the second POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 7(A)).

[0061] That is, in the full self-service mode, as shown in Fig. 7(B), the customer side scans the product, for example, by customer side scanner unit 206 (step S20: YES), and registers the product (step S21). After pressing a registration completion key (for example, a registration completion key displayed on customer side display unit 205) (step S40: YES), the customer side settles the bill, for example, by change dispenser 209 (step S50), and the process is completed. The registration completion key in step S40 is an operation key for completing the registration process, and may also be called a registration completion button, subtotal key, subtotal button, bill key, bill button, etc.

[0062] As described above, in the full self-service mode, both the customer side performs the registration process and the settlement process, but this does not mean that the store clerk side cannot do anything. In other words, even when the second POS terminal 20 is operating in the full self-service mode, for example, the store clerk side scanner unit 212 can scan the store clerk code. The state (operation mode) in which the registration process is performed on both the store clerk side and the customer side is sometimes called the double scan mode.

[0063] (Semi-self mode) The semi-self-service mode is divided into a registration-only mode in which the clerk performs the registration process, and a payment-only mode in which the customer performs the payment process. The example in Fig. 8 shows an example in which the second POS terminal 20-1 operates in the registration-only mode, and the second POS terminal 20-2 operates in the payment-only mode.

[0064] In the semi-self mode, the store clerk registers the purchased items of the customer on the store clerk side (store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211) of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the registration-only mode. In other words, the second POS terminal 20-1 executes the registration process of the purchased items by the operation of the store clerk (operation of the store clerk scanner unit 212, store clerk display unit 210, key operation unit 211, etc.) (upper part of FIG. 8(A)).

[0065] When the clerk has completed the registration process, the customer moves to the second POS terminal 20-2 in the payment-only mode, checks the total amount of the purchased items on the clerk-side display unit 210, and settles the bill by inserting coins into the change machine 209 or operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 8(A)). In other words, the second POS terminal 20-2 executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 8(A)).

[0066] When the registration process is completed at the second POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode (the second POS terminal 20-1 in the example of Figure 8), the customer moves from the second POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode to the second POS terminal 20 in the payment-only mode (the second POS terminal 20-2 in the example of Figure 8), and information necessary for the settlement process (registration information, etc.) is supplied to the second POS terminal 20 to which the customer has moved.

[0067] Methods for supplying information necessary for settlement processing from the second POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode (the second POS terminal 20-1 in the example of FIG. 8) to the second POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode (the second POS terminal 20-2 in the example of FIG. 8) include a method in which the second POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode sends the information necessary for settlement processing to the second POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode (it may be sent via the store controller 30; the same applies below), and a method in which the second POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode issues a medium (a medium on which a barcode or the like for obtaining information necessary for settlement processing is printed)

[0068] In the example of Fig. 8, there is only one second POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-2) in the accounting-only mode, but if there are two or more second POS terminals 20 in the accounting-only mode, the second POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode (second POS terminal 20-1 in the example of Fig. 8) may specify the POS terminal (second POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode) to execute the settlement process. In addition, if a medium (a medium on which a barcode or the like for obtaining information required for settlement is printed) is issued in the second POS terminal 20 in the registration-only mode, the settlement process is executed in the second POS terminal 20 in the accounting-only mode that reads the medium.

[0069] That is, in the semi-self mode, initially, the clerk of the second POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-1) in the registration-only mode registers the product. For example, as shown in FIG. 8B, the clerk scanner unit 212 scans the product (step S10: YES) to register the product (step S11). After pressing the subtotal key (e.g., the subtotal key displayed on the clerk display unit 210 or the subtotal key arranged on the key operation unit 211) (step S30: YES), for example, when the second POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-2) in the accounting-only mode is designated (step S31: YES), the registration information is sent to the designated second POS terminal 20 (step S32), and the process is completed.

[0070] In the example of Fig. 8(B), the processing procedure is to first press the subtotal key when completing product registration, and then (after pressing the subtotal key), specify the second POS terminal 20, but the processing procedure may be such that the second POS terminal 20 is directly specified (without pressing the subtotal key) when completing product registration. In the latter case, the subtotal key does not need to be displayed on the screen.

[0071] Next, as shown in FIG. 8(C), the second POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-2) designated by the second POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-1) in the registration-only mode receives the registration information (step S49: YES), and then the customer performs settlement, for example, by the change machine 209 (step S50), and the process is completed.

[0072] After transmitting the registration information (or issuing the medium), the store clerk can register the next customer's purchase (lower part of FIG. 8(A)). Also, after transmitting the registration information, the store clerk may not be present (lower part of FIG. 8(A)).

[0073] In the example of Fig. 8, the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode executes the settlement process using the registration information of the product registered in the second POS terminal 20-1 in the registration-only mode. In other words, the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode for the settlement process is the registration information of the product registered when the second POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the registration-only mode. However, if the registration information can be transmitted to the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode (or if a billing slip (registered trademark; the same applies below) can be issued), the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode for the settlement process does not necessarily have to be the registration information of the product registered when the second POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the registration-only mode.

[0074] As an example, the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode for the settlement process may be the registration information of the product registered when the second POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the normal mode. In other words, the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode may execute the settlement process using the registration information of the product registered when the second POS terminal 20-1 is operating in the normal mode.

[0075] In addition, if the customer has already started the settlement operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209 or operating the card payment unit 208) when the clerk at the second POS terminal 20-1 has completed the registration process (when attempting to send the registration information or issue a receipt), the sending of the registration information or the issuance of the receipt may be prohibited, or the settlement operation may be canceled.

[0076] As another example, if the first POS terminal 10 has a function of transmitting registration information (or issuing a receipt) to the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode (for example, if the first POS terminal 10 has this function as a basic function from the beginning, or if the function has been added as an additional function), the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode for the settlement process may be the registration information of the product registered by the first POS terminal 10. In other words, the second POS terminal 20-2 in the accounting-only mode may execute the settlement process using the registration information of the product registered by the first POS terminal 10.

[0077] 8, the second POS terminal 20-2 receives the registration information (or reads the receipt) and executes the settlement process while operating in the settlement-only mode. However, if the settlement process can be executed after receiving the registration information (or after reading the receipt), the operating mode when the second POS terminal 20-2 receives the registration information (or reads the receipt) does not necessarily have to be the settlement-only mode.

[0078] As an example, the second POS terminal 20-2 may receive registration information from another terminal (e.g., the second POS terminal 20-1, the first POS terminal 10) when operating in the full self-service mode, and execute a settlement process using the registration information received from the other terminal. Also, the second POS terminal 20-2 may read a receipt issued by another terminal (e.g., the second POS terminal 20-1, the first POS terminal 10) when operating in the full self-service mode, and execute a settlement process using registration information obtained from the receipt read from the other terminal.

[0079] The second POS terminal 20-2 transitions from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using the registration information received from the other terminal (it processes the registration information received from the other terminal as the settlement process in the accounting-only mode). Also, the second POS terminal 20-2 transitions from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using the accounting ticket issued by the other terminal (it processes the registration information based on the accounting ticket issued by the other terminal as the settlement process in the accounting-only mode).

[0080] The second POS terminal 20-2 does not have to switch from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using the registration information received from the other terminal (it may process the registration information received from the other terminal as the settlement process in the full self-service mode). Also, the second POS terminal 20-2 does not have to switch from the full self-service mode to the accounting-only mode before executing the settlement process using the bill issued by the other terminal (it may process the registration information based on the bill issued by the other terminal as the settlement process in the full self-service mode).

[0081] (Operation mode transition) The second POS terminal 20 changes the operation mode according to an explicit mode change operation by the store clerk (e.g., input on the screen, selection operation, etc.) or other operation other than the explicit mode change operation by the store clerk (e.g., reading a store clerk code, etc.). Also, the second POS terminal 20 changes the operation mode based on a predetermined condition not depending on the operation by the store clerk (conditions related to time such as elapsed time or a predetermined time (schedule), conditions related to sending and receiving information to and from other terminals, etc.).

[0082] (Display on the first POS terminal 10) Next, the display of the first POS terminal 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 9 to Fig. 11. Fig. 9 to Fig. 11 are examples of display on the first POS terminal 10. In the description of Fig. 9 to Fig. 11, it is assumed that the second POS terminal 20-1 is in the full self mode, and the second POS terminal 20-2 is in the pause mode (pause state).

[0083] Fig. 9 is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 110 of the first POS terminal 10. Specifically, Fig. 9 shows the display content of the registration screen when the second item (asparagus) is registered.

[0084] 9, an image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen shows the state of the 20-1 cash register (the second POS terminal 20-1 in FIG. 1). An image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the state of the 20-2 cash register (the second POS terminal 20-2 in FIG. 1).

[0085] The subtotal button BT10 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for instructing the end of product registration. After product registration is completed, the store clerk operates (touches) the subtotal button BT10. The pause button BT11 is a button for pausing the store's own terminal (the first POS terminal 10). The store clerk operates the pause button BT11 when leaving the store's own terminal (for example, when going to look for a product, when not using the terminal for a while, etc.).

[0086] Fig. 10 is a display example of the subtotal screen displayed on the store clerk side display unit 110 of the first POS terminal 10. Specifically, Fig. 10 shows the display contents of the subtotal screen in a scene following the scene in Fig. 9 (a scene after the subtotal button BT10 is operated).

[0087] 10, the current total button BT20 is a button for instructing input of the deposit amount. When executing a settlement process at the store clerk's own terminal (first POS terminal 10), after receiving a deposit from a customer that is equal to or greater than the total amount (after inputting a deposit amount equal to or greater than the total amount), the store clerk operates the current total button BT20.

[0088] The 20-1 register button BT21 is a button for designating the 20-1 register (the second POS terminal 20-1 in FIG. 1). When the store clerk designates the second POS terminal 20-1 as the terminal for carrying out the settlement process, he or she operates the 20-1 register button BT21. Note that "(FULL)" displayed on the 20-1 register button BT21 indicates that the operation mode of the terminal corresponding to the 20-1 register button BT21 (the second POS terminal 20-1) is the full self-service mode.

[0089] When the operation of the register button BT21 of 20-1 is accepted, the first POS terminal 10 transmits registration information to the register 20-1 (the second POS terminal 20-1 of the register).

[0090] The 20-2 register button BT22 is a button for specifying the 20-2 register (the second POS terminal 20-2 in FIG. 1). When the store clerk specifies the second POS terminal 20-2 as the terminal for executing the settlement process, he / she operates the 20-2 register button BT21. Note that "(suspended)" displayed on the 20-2 register button BT22 indicates that the terminal corresponding to the 20-2 register button BT22 (the second POS terminal 20-2) is suspended. Also, the dashed line on the 20-2 register button BT22 indicates that the button (20-2 register button BT22) is displayed in a display mode (e.g., grayed out) that indicates that the operation of the button is invalid.

[0091] In the example shown in FIG. 10, the operation of the 20-2 register button BT22 is not valid, but if the operation of the 20-2 register button BT22 is valid and the operation of the 20-2 register button BT22 is accepted, the first POS terminal 10 transmits registration information to the 20-2 register (the second POS terminal 20-2).

[0092] The receipt button BT25 is a button for issuing a receipt by the printing unit 113. The store clerk operates the receipt button BT25 when causing the second POS terminal 20, which has read the receipt, to carry out the settlement process.

[0093] Information required for executing the settlement process is coded and printed on the receipt. For example, the registered information used in the settlement process itself may be printed as a QR code (registered trademark) on the receipt, or information for identifying the registered information used in the settlement process (e.g., transaction identification information, etc.) may be printed as a barcode.

[0094] In the aspect of issuing a receipt with a QR code printed thereon, the second POS terminal 20 that reads the receipt (QR code) executes the settlement process using, for example, registration information obtained from the QR code. In the aspect of issuing a receipt with a barcode printed thereon, the second POS terminal 20 that reads the receipt (barcode) sends a registration information acquisition request including information for identifying the registration information obtained from the barcode (transaction identification information, etc.) to the terminal that issued the receipt (the first POS terminal 10, another second POS terminal 20) or a terminal that obtained the registration information from the terminal that issued the receipt (for example, the store controller 30), thereby receiving the registration information from the terminal that sent the registration information acquisition request and executing the settlement process. In other words, in a mode in which a receipt with the above-mentioned barcode printed thereon is issued, when the terminal which issued the receipt (the first POS terminal 10, the other second POS terminal 20) or the terminal which acquired the registration information from the terminal which issued the receipt (such as the store controller 30) receives a registration information acquisition request sent from the second POS terminal 20 which read the receipt, it transmits the registration information specified by the registration information acquisition request to the sender of the registration information acquisition request (the requester of the registration information).

[0095] The issued receipt is handed over to the customer by the store clerk. The customer then moves to the second POS terminal 20 (the second POS terminal 20-1 or the second POS terminal 20-2), and the second POS terminal 20 (customer side scanner unit 206) reads the code on the receipt, and the settlement process is carried out at the second POS terminal 20.

[0096] The registration screen button BT26 is a button for returning the screen from the sub-plan screen to the registration screen. The store clerk operates the registration screen button BT26 when, for example, changing (adding or canceling) a purchased item.

[0097] As described above, the current total button BT20 is a button that is operated after a deposit amount equal to or greater than the total amount is entered, and Fig. 10 does not show a scene in which a deposit amount equal to or greater than the total amount has been entered. Therefore, in Fig. 10, like the 20-2 register button BT22, the current total button BT20 may be displayed in a manner that indicates that operation is invalid.

[0098] Fig. 11 is an example of the settlement screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 110 of the first POS terminal 10. Specifically, Fig. 11 shows the display contents of the settlement screen in a scene following the scene of Fig. 10 (a scene after the deposit amount "¥503" has been entered as the quantity, and a scene before the operation of the current total button BT20). The scene of Fig. 11 is a scene after the deposit amount "¥503", which is more than the total amount "¥383", has been entered as the quantity, i.e., a case in which the settlement process is to be carried out at the own terminal (the first POS terminal 10), and therefore the buttons (20-1 register button BT21, cash register button BT25) for causing the other terminal, the second POS terminal 20, to carry out the settlement process are displayed in a display mode indicating that the operation is invalid.

[0099] In the scene of FIG. 11, when the cash button BT20 is operated, the change machine 109 dispenses change "¥120", and the printing unit 113 issues a receipt or the like.

[0100] (Display on the second POS terminal 20 (full self-service mode)) Next, the display of the second POS terminal 20 in the full self mode will be described with reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 are examples of display on the second POS terminal 20 in the full self mode. In the description of Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, it is assumed that the second POS terminal 20-1 is in the full self mode and the second POS terminal 20-2 is in the pause mode (pause state).

[0101] Fig. 12(A) is a display example of a registration start screen displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode. In Fig. 12(A), the registration start button BT30 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for instructing the start of product registration. The customer operates the registration start button BT30 before starting product registration. The buttons BT35 to BT37 at the bottom left of the screen are buttons for switching the display language to English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively.

[0102] Fig. 12(B) is a display example of the registration screen displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode. Specifically, Fig. 12(B) shows the display contents of the registration screen when the second item (daifuku mochi) is registered. When the registration start button BT30 is operated on the registration start screen shown in Fig. 12(A), a registration screen on which no item has been registered yet (initial registration screen) is displayed, but for ease of explanation, Fig. 12(B) shows the registration screen after an item has already been registered.

[0103] 12B, an image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the own terminal (the second POS terminal 20-1), and an image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-2 cash register (the second POS terminal 20-2).

[0104] The checkout button BT32 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for instructing the end of product registration. The customer operates the checkout button BT32 after product registration is complete. The store clerk call button BT33 is a button for calling a store clerk. The customer operates the store clerk call button BT33 when calling a store clerk (for example, when the customer needs the assistance of a store clerk).

[0105] As described above, the buttons BT35 to BT37 are buttons for switching the display language to English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively. The "vegetable" button BT38 is a button for displaying each preset key for vegetables (see FIG. 9).

[0106] FIG. 13 is a display example of the settlement screen displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode. FIG. 13(A) is a settlement screen (payment method selection screen) displayed when settlement processing is started. For example, the second POS terminal 20-1 displays a payment method selection screen as shown in FIG. 13(A) when the checkout button BT32 is operated on the registration screen (see FIG. 12(B)). FIG. 13(B) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when starting a cash payment. For example, the second POS terminal 20-1 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 13(B) when cash is operated on the payment method selection screen (see FIG. 13(A)). FIG. 13(C) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when the deposit amount is determined. For example, the second POS terminal 20-1 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 13(C) when cash (deposit) equal to or greater than the payment amount (purchase amount) is inserted.

[0107] Fig. 13(D) is a settlement screen (change screen) displayed when dispensing change. For example, the second POS terminal 20-1 displays the change screen as shown in Fig. 13(D) when the Finish (receipt) button BT40 is operated on the deposit screen (Fig. 13(C)). Fig. 13(E) is a settlement screen (receipt screen) displayed when change is removed. For example, the second POS terminal 20-1 displays a receipt screen as shown in Fig. 13(E) when change is removed from the outlet of the change dispenser 209. The second POS terminal 20 may have a sensor such as a photosensor installed near the outlet and determine that change has been removed when the sensor recognizes an object (presumably a customer's hand).

[0108] Fig. 13(F) shows a pause screen displayed when in a pause state. That is, the second POS terminal 20-2 is in a pause mode (pause state), and when in the pause mode, a pause screen as shown in Fig. 13(F) is displayed.

[0109] After displaying the receipt screen (FIG. 13(E)), the second POS terminal 20-1 displays the registration start screen (FIG. 12(A)). For example, the second POS terminal 20-1 displays the registration start screen after the receipt is removed from the issuing port of the printing unit 213. The second POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a sensor that can recognize that the receipt has been removed from the issuing port.

[0110] Also, if no change is required, the change screen (FIG. 13(D)) may not be displayed, and the screen may transition from the deposit screen (FIG. 13(C)) to the receipt screen (FIG. 13(E)).

[0111] (Display on the second POS terminal 20 (semi-self mode)) Next, the display of the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode will be described with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15. Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 are examples of display on the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode. In the description of Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, it is assumed that the second POS terminal 20-1 is in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) and the second POS terminal 20-2 is in the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode).

[0112] Fig. 14 is a display example of the registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the semi-self mode (registration only mode). Specifically, Fig. 14 shows the display contents of the registration screen when one item of product (egg (M)) is registered.

[0113] 14, an image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the own terminal (the second POS terminal 20-1), and an image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen shows the status of the 20-2 cash register (the second POS terminal 20-2).

[0114] The pause button BT11 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for pausing the terminal (the second POS terminal 20-1). The store clerk operates the pause button BT11 when leaving the terminal (for example, when going to look for a product, when not using the terminal for a while, etc.).

[0115] The 20-2 register button BT22 is a button for designating the 20-2 register (the second POS terminal 20-2). Note that "(Accounting M)" displayed on the 20-2 register button BT22 indicates that the terminal corresponding to the 20-2 register button BT22 (the second POS terminal 20-2) is in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode).

[0116] The receipt button BT25 is a button for issuing a receipt by the printing unit 213. The issued receipt is handed over to the customer by the store clerk. The customer then moves to the second POS terminal 20-2, and the second POS terminal 20-2 (customer side scanner unit 206) reads the code on the receipt, and the settlement process is carried out at the second POS terminal 20-2.

[0117] Fig. 15 shows an example of the settlement screen displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the second POS terminal 20-2 in semi-self mode (accounting only mode). Fig. 15(A) shows the settlement screen (standby screen) displayed before starting the settlement process. For example, when the second POS terminal 20-2 is in standby mode (standby state), it displays the standby screen as shown in Fig. 15(A).

[0118] FIG. 15(B) is a settlement screen (payment method selection screen) displayed when settlement processing is started. For example, when the second POS terminal 20-2 receives registration information, it displays a payment method selection screen as shown in FIG. 15(B). FIG. 15(C) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when starting a cash payment. For example, when cash is operated on the payment method selection screen (see FIG. 15(B)), the second POS terminal 20-2 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 15(C). FIG. 15(D) is a settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when the deposit amount is determined. For example, when cash (deposit) equal to or greater than the payment amount (purchase amount) is inserted, the second POS terminal 20-2 displays a deposit screen as shown in FIG. 15(D).

[0119] Fig. 15(E) is a settlement screen (change screen) displayed when change is dispensed. For example, the second POS terminal 20-2 displays the change screen as shown in Fig. 15(E) when the END (receipt) button BT40 is operated on the deposit screen (Fig. 15(D)). Fig. 15(F) is a settlement screen (receipt screen) displayed when change is removed. For example, the second POS terminal 20-2 displays the receipt screen as shown in Fig. 15(F) when change is removed from the outlet of the change dispenser 209.

[0120] Although not shown in the drawings, the second POS terminal 20-2 may display a pause screen when in a pause state.

[0121] Also, as will be described in more detail later, after displaying the receipt screen (FIG. 15(F)) (for example, after the receipt is removed from the issuing port of the printing unit 213), the second POS terminal 20-2 displays a standby screen (FIG. 15(A)) or a payment method selection screen (see FIG. 15(B)).

[0122] Also, if no change is required, the change screen (FIG. 15(E)) may not be displayed, and the screen may transition from the deposit screen (FIG. 15(D)) to the receipt screen (FIG. 15(F)).

[0123] As shown in Figures 13 and 15, the settlement screens (payment method selection screen, deposit screen, change screen, receipt screen) displayed when the second POS terminal 20 is in full self-service mode are the same as the settlement screens (payment method selection screen, deposit screen, change screen, receipt screen) displayed when the second POS terminal 20 is in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode).

[0124] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS system 1. Specifically, the flowchart in Fig. 16 shows an example of the operation when the first POS terminal 10 transmits registration information to the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode. The left side of Fig. 16 shows the operation of the first POS terminal 10, and the right side shows the operation of the second POS terminal 20-1. At the start of the flowchart in Fig. 16, it is assumed that the first POS terminal 10 has completed product registration (it is assumed that the small display screen is displayed). At the start of the flowchart in Fig. 16, it is assumed that the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-1 is the full self-service mode.

[0125] Step S100: The first POS terminal 10 accepts the designation of the second POS terminal 20-1. Specifically, the first POS terminal 10 accepts the operation of the register button BT21 20-1 (see FIG. 10). Step S101: The first POS terminal 10 transmits registration information to the second POS terminal 20-1.

[0126] Step S102: The second POS terminal 20-1 receives the registration information. Step S103: The second POS terminal 20-1 stores the received registration information in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0127] Step S104: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not processing is in progress (registration processing or settlement processing). If processing is not in progress (step S104: NO), proceed to step S106. If processing is in progress (step S104: YES), return to step S104. In other words, if processing is in progress, the processing is continued until it is completed, and after the processing is completed, proceed to step S106. Note that it is also possible to return to step S102 instead of step S104. In other words, two or more pieces of registration information may be received and stored during processing.

[0128] Step S106: The second POS terminal 20-1 changes its operation mode from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode). The process of step S106 may include a process in which the second POS terminal 20-1 updates the terminal status management information (described later) that manages (stores) the status of its own terminal from information indicating full self-service mode to information indicating semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode). Step S107: The second POS terminal 20-1 transmits information (mode change information) indicating that the operation mode has been changed to the first POS terminal 10. The second POS terminal 20-1 may transmit the mode change information to the first POS terminal 10 via the store controller 30. The second POS terminal 20-1 may also transmit the mode change information to the second POS terminal 20-2.

[0129] Step S108: The second POS terminal 20-1 displays a settlement screen in the semi-self mode (accounting-only mode). More specifically, the second POS terminal 20-1 displays a settlement screen (payment method selection screen) showing the total amount and the like of the registration information received in step S102 (the registration information stored in step S103) as shown in FIG. 15(B).

[0130] Step S109: The first POS terminal 10 receives the mode change information. Step S110: The first POS terminal 10 updates the terminal status management information that manages the status of the transmission source terminal (the second POS terminal 20-1). That is, the first POS terminal 10 updates the terminal status management information of the second POS terminal 20-1 from information indicating the full self-service mode to information indicating the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) based on the mode change information received in step S109.

[0131] The first POS terminal 10 displays the status (operation mode) of other terminals in the image GA01 or GA02 based on the terminal status management information, and changes the display mode (whether the operation is valid, i.e., whether transmission is possible) of the 20-1 register button BT21 and the 20-2 register button BT22 based on the terminal status management information. The same is true for the second POS terminal 20 (see Fig. 12(B) and Fig. 14).

[0132] Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second POS terminal 20. Specifically, the flowchart in Fig. 17 shows an example of the operation of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode according to whether or not registration information has been received. The flowchart in Fig. 17 is started as appropriate. Also, at the start of the flowchart in Fig. 17, the operation mode of the second POS terminal 20-1 is assumed to be the full self-service mode.

[0133] Step S202: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the registration information has been received. If the registration information has been received (step S202: YES), the process proceeds to step S203. If the registration information has not been received (step S202: NO), the process proceeds to step S204. Step S203: The second POS terminal 20-1 stores the received registration information in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0134] Step S204: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not processing is in progress (registration processing or settlement processing). If processing is not in progress (step S204: NO), proceed to step S205. If processing is in progress (step S204: YES), return to step S202. In other words, if processing is in progress, the processing is continued until it is completed, and proceeds to step S205 after the processing is completed.

[0135] Step S205: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the registration information is stored. If the registration information is not stored (step S205: NO), the process proceeds to step S208. If the registration information is stored (step S205: YES), the process proceeds to step S216. Step S208: The second POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration start screen for the full self-service mode.

[0136] Step S216: The second POS terminal 20-1 changes the operation mode from the full self-service mode to the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode), similarly to step S106 in FIG. Step S217: The second POS terminal 20-1 transmits the mode change information in the same manner as in step S107 of FIG. Step S218: The second POS terminal 20-1 displays the settlement screen in the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) in the same manner as in step S108 in FIG.

[0137] Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the second POS terminal 20. Specifically, the flowchart in Fig. 18 shows an example of the operation of the second POS terminal 20-1 in semi-self mode (accounting only mode) according to whether or not registration information has been received. The flowchart in Fig. 18 is started as appropriate. Also, at the start of the flowchart in Fig. 18, the operating mode of the second POS terminal 20-1 is assumed to be semi-self mode (accounting only mode).

[0138] Step S302: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the registration information has been received. If the registration information has been received (step S302: YES), the process proceeds to step S303. If the registration information has not been received (step S302: NO), the process proceeds to step S304. Step S303: The second POS terminal 20-1 stores the received registration information in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0139] Step S304: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not processing is in progress (payment processing is in progress). If processing is not in progress (step S304: NO), proceed to step S305. If processing is in progress (step S304: YES), return to step S302. In other words, if processing is in progress, the processing is continued until it is completed, and proceeds to step S305 after the processing is completed.

[0140] Step S305: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the registration information is stored. If the registration information is stored (step S305: YES), the process proceeds to step S308. If the registration information is not stored (step S305: NO), the process proceeds to step S310. Step S308: The second POS terminal 20-1 displays the settlement screen in the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) in the same manner as in step S108 in FIG.

[0141] Step S310: The second POS terminal 20-1 displays a standby screen for the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) as shown in FIG. 15(A).

[0142] Step S312: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the registration information has been received. If the registration information has been received (step S312: YES), the process proceeds to step S313. If the registration information has not been received (step S312: NO), the process proceeds to step S315. Step S313: The second POS terminal 20-1 stores the received registration information in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0143] Step S315: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the registration information is stored. If the registration information is stored (step S315: YES), the process proceeds to step S308. If the registration information is not stored (step S315: NO), the process proceeds to step S316. Step S316: The second POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed, that is, whether or not the elapsed time (for example, the elapsed time since the standby screen was displayed) exceeds a predetermined time. If the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S316: NO), the process returns to step S312. If the predetermined time has elapsed (step S316: YES), the process proceeds to step S326.

[0144] Step S326: The second POS terminal 20-1 changes the operation mode from the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) to the full-self-service mode. The process of step S326 may include a process in which the second POS terminal 20-1 updates its own terminal status management information from information indicating the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) to information indicating the full-self-service mode. Step S327: The second POS terminal 20-1 transmits the mode change information. Step S328: The second POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration start screen for the full self-service mode.

[0145] As described above, according to Figs. 17 and 18, when the number of people waiting at the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode increases, the registration information can be handed over to the second POS terminal 20 in the full-self-service mode, which is relatively empty (see Fig. 17). This allows smooth handling of customers. Also, when the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode is empty (when the store clerk is not operating it), it can be automatically switched to the full-self-service mode (see Fig. 18). This allows the empty terminal to be used effectively. Also, for customers who are not familiar with registering products (elderly people, etc.), the store clerk can register the products using the first POS terminal 10 or the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (i.e., a manned response), and if the customer is not familiar with payment, the registration information of the other terminals can be skipped and the customer can make the payment by himself at the other terminal (i.e., an unmanned response). In other words, since the operation mode can be freely switched as needed, it is possible to operate according to the situation, for example. It is also possible to handle charging of prepaid cards, etc. For example, the process up to charging a prepaid card may be handled by an attendant, and the process thereafter (payment) may be unattended by transmitting the charge amount to another terminal.

[0146] (Conditions for sending registration information) In the example shown in Fig. 16, no particular condition is set for the transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self mode, but a condition may be set for the transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in the full self mode. Specifically, whether or not to transmit registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in the full self mode may be controlled according to the processing status of the second POS terminal 20 (using the processing status as a condition), as shown in Fig. 19(A) and Fig. 20.

[0147] The flowchart in Fig. 19(A) shows the operation of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode. At the start of the flowchart in Fig. 19(A), the second POS terminal 20-1 is assumed to be displaying a registration screen (initial registration screen) on which no product has yet been registered.

[0148] Step S400: In response to a customer's operation (for example, an operation to register a product using the customer-side scanner unit 206), the second POS terminal 20-1 starts registering the purchased product. Step S401: Control information (transmission restriction start information) for starting a transmission restriction of registration information from the other terminal to the own terminal (the second POS terminal 20-1) is transmitted to the other terminal. The transmission may be via the store controller 30.

[0149] Step S402: The operation of the checkout button BT32 is accepted. That is, an instruction to end the registration of purchased items is accepted. Step S403: A payment screen (payment method selection screen) is displayed. Step S404: Cash is selected as the payment method. Step S405: A settlement screen (a deposit screen showing the deposit amount of 0 yen) is displayed. Step S406: The deposit amount (coin inserted by the customer) is counted. Step S407: The settlement screen (the deposit screen with the deposit amount updated) is displayed. That is, the counting result is displayed.

[0150] Step S408: The operation of the Finish (receipt) button BT40 is accepted. That is, the operation to confirm the deposit amount is accepted. Step S409: Control information (transmission restriction end information) for ending (cancelling) the restriction on transmission of registration information from the other terminal to the own terminal is transmitted to the other terminal. The transmission may be via the store controller 30.

[0151] Step S410: The settlement screen (change screen) is displayed, and if there is change, the change is dispensed. Step S411: It is detected that the change has been removed. Step S412: The settlement screen (receipt screen) is displayed, and a receipt is printed and issued. Step S413: It is detected that the receipt has been removed. Step S414: For the next customer, the initial registration screen is displayed.

[0152] The flowchart in Fig. 20(A) shows the operation of the first POS terminal 10. The first POS terminal 10 starts the flowchart in Fig. 20(A) as appropriate. Fig. 20(B) and Fig. 20(C) are examples of terminal status management information.

[0153] Step S501: Determine whether or not transmission restriction start information transmitted from another terminal has been received. If the transmission restriction start information has been received, proceed to step S501. If the transmission restriction start information has not been received, proceed to step S510. Step S501: The transmission of registration information is restricted (prohibited) for the terminal that transmitted the transmission restriction start information until the transmission restriction end information is received. For example, the first POS terminal 10 may use terminal status management information to control whether or not the transmission of registration information is permitted (restriction, lifting of restriction).

[0154] The terminal status management information is information (flag, classification information, status information, etc.) for managing the status of each terminal (own terminal, other terminal). FIG. 20(B) shows the terminal status management information stored by the first POS terminal 10 at a certain point in time. The terminal status management information in FIG. 20(B) includes "1 (operating)" as information on the status of the own terminal (first POS terminal 10), "F (full self mode)" as information on the status of the other terminal (second POS terminal 20-1), "1 (transmittable)" as information on whether or not the registration information can be transmitted to the other terminal (second POS terminal 20-1), "K (inactive)" as information on the status of the other terminal (second POS terminal 20-2), and "0 (transmittable)" as information on whether or not the registration information can be transmitted to the other terminal (second POS terminal 20-2). FIG. 20(C) shows the terminal status management information stored by the first POS terminal 10 at another point in time. The terminal status management information in FIG. 20(C) differs from the terminal status management information in FIG. 20(D) in that the information regarding whether or not the registration information can be transmitted to the other terminal (the second POS terminal 20-1) is "0 (transmission not permitted)."

[0155] For example, when the first POS terminal 10 receives the transmission restriction start information transmitted from the second POS terminal 20-1 in step S500, the first POS terminal 10 updates the information regarding whether or not the registration information can be transmitted to the second POS terminal 20-1 from "1 (transmittable)" to "0 (not transmittable)" in step S501. That is, the terminal status management information stored in the process of step S501 as shown in Fig. 20(B) is updated to as shown in Fig. 20(C).

[0156] Step S510: Determine whether or not transmission restriction end information transmitted from another terminal has been received. If transmission restriction end information has been received, proceed to step S511. If transmission restriction end information has not been received, proceed to step S511. Step S511: The transmission restriction of the registration information for the source terminal of the transmission restriction end information is lifted.

[0157] For example, when the first POS terminal 10 receives the transmission restriction end information transmitted from the second POS terminal 20-1 in step S510, the first POS terminal 10 updates the information regarding whether or not the registration information can be transmitted to the second POS terminal 20-1 from "0 (transmission not permitted)" to "1 (transmission permitted)" in step S511. That is, the terminal status management information stored in the process of step S511 as shown in Fig. 20(C) is updated to the information shown in Fig. 20(B).

[0158] The terminal status management information in Fig. 20(D) is the terminal status management information stored by the second POS terminal 20-1 when the registration screen in Fig. 14 is displayed. The terminal status management information in Fig. 20(D) includes "ST (semi-self mode (registration-only mode))" as information regarding the status of the terminal itself (second POS terminal 20-1), "1 (operating)" as information regarding the status of the other terminal (first POS terminal 10), "0 (transmission not possible)" as information regarding whether or not registration information can be transmitted to the other terminal (first POS terminal 10), "K (inactive)" as information regarding the status of the other terminal (second POS terminal 20-2), and "0 (transmission not possible)" as information regarding whether or not registration information can be transmitted to the other terminal (second POS terminal 20-2).

[0159] As described above, according to Figs. 19(A) and 20, when the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode starts to register purchased items (step S400 in Fig. 19(A)), it transmits transmission restriction start information (step S401 in Fig. 19(A)). When the first POS terminal 10 receives the transmission restriction start information transmitted from the second POS terminal 20-1 (step S500 in Fig. 20: YES), it restricts the transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20-1 (step S501 in Fig. 20). Also, when the second POS terminal 20-1 in the full self-service mode accepts an operation to confirm the deposit amount (step S408 in Fig. 19(A)), it transmits transmission restriction end information (step S409 in Fig. 19(A)). When the first POS terminal 10 receives the transmission restriction end information transmitted from the second POS terminal 20-1 (step S510 in FIG. 20: YES), it releases the transmission restriction of the registration information to the second POS terminal 20-1 (step S511 in FIG. 20). That is, according to FIG. 19(A) and FIG. 20, the transmission of the registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode is not restricted during the period before the registration of one purchased item and after the deposit amount is determined (the transmission of the registration information is permitted), but is restricted during the period from the registration of one purchased item to the determination of the deposit amount (the transmission of the registration information is not permitted).

[0160] In addition, in Figures 19 (A) and 20, the control of whether or not to send registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode has been explained, but as shown in Figure 19 (B), whether or not to send registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (checkout only mode) may also be similarly controlled.

[0161] The flowchart in Figure 19(B) shows the operation of the second POS terminal 20-2 in semi-self mode (accounting only mode) (i.e., in the explanation of Figure 19(B), the second POS terminal 20-2 is assumed to be operating in semi-self mode (accounting only mode).) At the start of the flowchart in Figure 19(B), the second POS terminal 20-2 is assumed to be displaying the standby screen (Figure 15(A)).

[0162] Step S420: Registration information is received and stored. Step S421: Control information (transmission restriction start information) for starting a transmission restriction of registration information from the other terminal to the own terminal (the second POS terminal 20-2) is transmitted to the other terminal. The transmission may be via the store controller 30.

[0163] The processes in steps S423 to S433 are similar to the processes within the dashed line P in FIG. 19A (the processes in steps S403 to S413), and therefore will not be described.

[0164] Step S434: Display a standby screen or a payment method selection screen. For example, if the registration information of the next customer has not been received between the time the change is dispensed and the time the receipt is detected as being removed, the standby screen is displayed, and if the registration information has been received, the payment method selection screen is displayed.

[0165] As described above, according to Figs. 19(B) and 20, when the second POS terminal 20-2 in the semi-self mode (accounting only mode) receives and stores the registration information (step S420 in Fig. 19(B)), it transmits transmission restriction start information (step S421 in Fig. 19(B)). When the first POS terminal 10 receives the transmission restriction start information transmitted from the second POS terminal 20-2 (step S500 in Fig. 20: YES), it restricts the transmission of the registration information to the second POS terminal 20-2 (step S501 in Fig. 20). When the second POS terminal 20-2 in the semi-self mode (accounting only mode) accepts an operation to confirm the deposit amount (step S428 in Fig. 19(B) and step S408 in Fig. 19(A)), it transmits transmission restriction end information (step S429 in Fig. 19(B) and step S409 in Fig. 19(A)). When the first POS terminal 10 receives the transmission restriction end information transmitted from the second POS terminal 20-2 (step S510 in FIG. 20: YES), it releases the restriction on transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20-2 (step S511 in FIG. 20). That is, according to FIG. 19(B) and FIG. 20, transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode) is not restricted (transmission of registration information is permitted) during the period before reception of the registration information and after the deposit amount is determined, but is restricted (transmission of registration information is not permitted) during the period from reception of the registration information to determination of the deposit amount.

[0166] Fig. 21 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the second POS terminal 20. Specifically, Fig. 21(A) shows an example of the operation of reading various information by the customer-side scanner unit 206 in an operation mode (full self-service mode) in which only the customer registers the product. The second POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode starts the flow chart of Fig. 21(A) as appropriate during the registration process. Note that the flow chart of Fig. 21(A) omits operations other than those related to the customer-side scanner unit 206.

[0167] Step S600: Determine whether or not information has been read by the customer-side scanner unit 206. If information has been read by the customer-side scanner unit 206 (step S600: YES), proceed to step S601. If information has not been read by the customer-side scanner unit 206 (step S600: NO), end the process.

[0168] Step S601: Determine whether the read information is a product code. In other words, determine whether the barcode attached to the product has been read. If it is a product code (step S601: YES), proceed to step S602. If it is not a product code (step S601: NO), proceed to step S603. Step S602: The product code is stored, and information obtained based on the product code (for example, product name, unit price, etc.) is displayed on the customer side display unit 205 and the store clerk side display unit 210. Then, the process ends.

[0169] Step S603: Determine whether the read information is member identification information (member number, member code, customer number, customer identification information). In other words, determine whether a barcode or the like attached to a member card or the like has been read. If it is member identification information (step S603: YES), proceed to step S604. If it is not member identification information (step S603: NO), proceed to step S605. Step S604: The member identification information is stored, and information obtained based on the member identification information (for example, the member's name, the number of points, etc.) is displayed on the customer display unit 205 and the store clerk display unit 210. Then the process ends.

[0170] Step S605: Determine whether the read information is privilege identification information (identification information for a coupon, gift certificate, etc.). In other words, determine whether a barcode or the like attached to a coupon, etc. has been read. If it is privilege identification information (step S605: YES), proceed to step S606. If it is not member identification information (step S605: NO), proceed to step S605. Note that gift certificates may be given to customers unconditionally or by lottery during a campaign period, etc., either individually or in sets of several, or may be given to specific targets as complimentary coupons, or may be sold (such as a set of 11 exchange coupons, each of which can be exchanged for one product and sold for the price of 10 of the products). Step S606: The benefit identification information is stored, and information obtained based on the benefit identification information (for example, discount information, etc.) is displayed on the customer display unit 205 and the store clerk display unit 210. Then, the process ends. Step S607: An error message is displayed on the customer display unit 205 and the clerk display unit 210. That is, if the read information is neither a product code, nor member identification information, nor benefit identification information, an error message is displayed on the customer display unit 205 and the clerk display unit 210. For example, a message such as "Not subject to reading" is displayed on the customer display unit 205 and the clerk display unit 210. Note that a message such as "Not subject to reading" may be displayed on the customer display unit 205, and a message such as "An error message has been displayed on the customer side because non-target information was scanned" may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210. Then the process ends.

[0171] Fig. 21(B) shows an example of the operation of reading various information by the customer-side scanner unit 206 in an operation mode (normal mode, semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode)) in which only the store clerk registers the product. The second POS terminal 20 operating in the normal mode or semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) starts the flowchart of Fig. 21(B) as appropriate during the registration process. Note that the flowchart of Fig. 21(B) omits operations other than those related to the customer-side scanner unit 206.

[0172] Step S610: Determine whether or not information has been read by the customer-side scanner unit 206. If information has been read by the customer-side scanner unit 206 (step S610: YES), proceed to step S611. If information has not been read by the customer-side scanner unit 206 (step S610: NO), end the process.

[0173] Step S611: Determine whether the read information is a product code. In other words, determine whether the barcode attached to the product has been read. If it is a product code (Step S611: YES), proceed to Step S612. If it is not a product code (Step S611: NO), proceed to Step S613. Step S612: An error message is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 and the clerk-side display unit 210. That is, in the operation mode in which only the clerk registers the product, unlike the operation mode in which only the customer registers the product, when the product code is read, an error message is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 and the clerk-side display unit 210. For example, a message such as "Product cannot be registered" is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 and the clerk-side display unit 210. Note that a message such as "Product cannot be registered" may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205, and a message such as "An error message has been displayed on the customer side because the product was scanned on the customer side" may be displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210.

[0174] The processes in steps S613 to S617 are the same as those in steps S603 to S607 in Fig. 21(A), and therefore will not be described here. As shown in Fig. 21(A) and Fig. 21(B), when the second POS terminal 20 is in the full self-service mode, it permits the customer-side scanner unit 206 to scan all of the product code, member identification information, and privilege identification information, and when the operation mode is the normal mode or semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode), it prohibits the scanning of the product code, but permits the scanning of the member identification information and privilege identification information.

[0175] 21(A) and 21(B), customer-side scanner unit 206 can be appropriately controlled according to the situation. Specifically, whether or not customer-side scanner unit 206 can read the product code can be appropriately controlled according to the operation mode. In addition, since reading of member identification information and privilege identification information is permitted regardless of the operation mode, the time required for processing can be shortened.

[0176] The following provides additional information regarding the reading of identification information by the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the like.

[0177] The second POS terminal 20 may determine which identification information (product code, member identification information, benefit identification information) it is from the read identification information (read information). For example, the second POS terminal 20 may determine which identification information it is based on the number of digits of the read information. Also, the second POS terminal 20 may determine which identification information it is based on the value of a predetermined part of the read information (for example, the first digit, the second digit, the first to second digits, etc.) instead of or in addition to the number of digits of the read information.

[0178] It has been explained that the flowchart in Figure 21(A) shows an example of operation in an operation mode where customers mainly register products (full self-service mode), and the flowchart in Figure 21(B) is an example of operation in an operation mode where store clerks mainly register products (normal mode, semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode)). However, in the case of an operation mode where both store clerks and customers register products (double scan mode), the operation is the same as the operation in the operation mode where customers mainly register products (full self-service mode) (Figure 21(A)).

[0179] That is, in operation modes that allow customers to register products (full-self mode, double-scan mode), in addition to member identification information and benefit identification information, customer-side scanner unit 206 is permitted to read product codes (FIG. 21(A)). On the other hand, in operation modes that do not allow customers to register products (normal mode, semi-self mode (registration-only mode)), reading of member identification information and benefit identification information by customer-side scanner unit 206 is permitted, but reading of product codes by customer-side scanner unit 206 is prohibited (FIG. 21(B)).

[0180] Also, as shown in Figures 21(A) and 21(B), the customer-side scanner unit 206 operates differently depending on the operation mode, but the store clerk-side scanner unit 212 may operate the same regardless of the operation mode. Specifically, in the case of the store clerk-side scanner unit 212, the operation is the same as that of the customer-side scanner unit 206 shown in Figure 21(A) regardless of the operation mode.

[0181] In other words, whether the operating mode is one that allows customers to register products (full self-service mode, double scan mode) or one that does not allow customers to register products (normal mode, semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode)), the store clerk's scanner unit 212 is permitted to read product codes, member identification information, and bonus identification information (Figure 21 (A)).

[0182] In the flowchart of Fig. 21(A), when any of the product code, member identification information, or privilege identification information is read by the customer-side scanner unit 206, it is accepted (steps S602, S604, S606), while when other information (information other than the product code, member identification information, or privilege identification information) is read by the customer-side scanner unit 206, it is not accepted (step S607). However, when the other information, such as information on the organization to which the customer belongs (shareholder, group employee, etc.), information on the customer's attributes (age, nationality, etc.), information on the delivery of the product (for example, a ticketing code for issuing a ticket, etc.), information on the delivery of the product (delivery destination / delivery date and time), etc., is read by the customer-side scanner unit 206, it may be accepted. The same applies to the flowchart of Fig. 21(B).

[0183] In addition, in the case of the store clerk-side scanner unit 212, it has been explained that it operates as shown in FIG. 21(A) regardless of the operating mode. However, when other information as mentioned above (information that is not a product code, member identification information, or benefit identification information), such as store clerk identification information that identifies a store clerk or transaction identification information printed on a medium, is read by the store clerk-side scanner unit 212, it may be possible to accept each of them.

[0184] The second POS terminal 20 may notify what is permitted to be read (or what is prohibited from being read) depending on the situation. For example, in the process of FIG. 21(A), the second POS terminal 20 may display on the customer side display unit 205 that in addition to reading the product (product code), it is also possible to read the membership card (member identification information) and the bonus medium (bonus identification information). Also, in the process of FIG. 21(B), the second POS terminal 20 may display that it is not possible to read the product, but it is possible to read the membership card and the bonus medium.

[0185] Furthermore, when a medium (privilege medium) such as a coupon or gift certificate is used, the second POS terminal 20 may execute the following process.

[0186] For example, the second POS terminal 20 may notify that the bonus medium used this time cannot be used next time (for example, the bonus medium used this time can be used only once, the bonus medium used this time can be used multiple times (up to a predetermined usage limit of two or more times) but the current use is the last use (the usage at the predetermined usage limit), etc.), and may notify that the bonus medium needs to be collected. For example, a collection box for collecting the bonus medium used may be installed at the counter (see FIG. 3), and a message such as "Please put the used XX ticket in the collection box" may be displayed on the customer display unit 205 in the process of step S606 in FIG. 21(A) (similar to step S616 in FIG. 21(B)). Also, instead of or in addition to the display on the customer display unit 205, a message such as "Collect XX ticket required" may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210. Also, instead of or in addition to the display on the display unit (customer display unit 205, store clerk display unit 210), a voice may be output from the voice output unit 214. The same applies to other messages.

[0187] In addition, various methods are conceivable as a method for determining whether or not the bonus medium needs to be collected, which are related to the manner in which the bonus medium is used in the store. For example, in a manner in which a bonus medium that can only be used once is used, the second POS terminal 20 (CPU 201) may always determine that the bonus medium needs to be collected when it determines that the read information (identification information) is bonus identification information. In other words, since any bonus medium used this time cannot be used next time, it may always determine that the bonus medium needs to be collected when it is read. The same applies when multiple types of bonus media (e.g., bonus medium A that can only be used once and bonus medium B that can only be used once) are used as bonus media that can only be used once. In other words, in determining whether or not the bonus medium needs to be collected, regardless of the type of bonus medium (bonus medium A, B), it may be determined that the bonus medium needs to be collected regardless of which bonus medium is read.

[0188] In a mode of using bonus media that can be used multiple times (up to a predetermined usage limit of two or more times) (regardless of whether multiple types of bonus media are used as bonus media that can be used multiple times, or whether bonus media that can be used only once are used in total), the need for collection may be determined by managing the number of times of use for each bonus medium (for example, by assigning bonus identification information to each bonus medium rather than to each type of bonus medium, and by storing the number of times of use in an updatable manner in the store controller 30 or the monitoring terminal 40 in association with each bonus identification information). In other words, the second POS terminal 20 (CPU 201) may update the number of times of use corresponding to the read information (bonus identification information) of the bonus medium (for example, by sending usage number update control information to the store controller 30, etc.), and determine the need for collection based on whether the updated number of times of use has reached the usage limit.

[0189] On the other hand, if the bonus medium used this time can be used next time (for example, if the bonus medium used this time is a bonus medium that can be used any number of times within a specified usable period, if the bonus medium used this time is a bonus medium that can be used multiple times and the current use is not the last use (the use at the limit number of times), etc.), it may be notified that it can be used next time. For example, in the process of step S606 in FIG. 21(A) (similar to step S616 in FIG. 21(B)), a message such as "Your XX voucher can be used any number of times until XX / XX" or "Your XX voucher can be used △ more times until XX / XX" may be displayed on the customer display unit 205. Also, instead of or in addition to the display on the customer display unit 205, a similar message may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210.

[0190] The usable period may be managed in the same manner as the use limit number. That is, the usable period may be stored in the store controller 30 or the monitoring terminal 40 in association with each benefit identification information, and a message according to the usable period may be displayed. If the date and time of reading the benefit identification information is within the usable period and the specific medium can be used again, a message such as "Your used XX ticket can be used any number of times until XX / XX" or "Your used XX ticket can be used △ times more until XX / XX" may be displayed as described above. If the date and time of reading the benefit identification information is before the start of the usable period, a message such as "Your XX ticket is currently unavailable. You can use it between XX / XX and XX / XX" may be displayed on the customer display unit 205. If the date and time of reading the benefit identification information is after the usable period has ended, a message such as "Your XX ticket is currently unavailable because the usable period has ended" or "Your XX ticket is currently unavailable because the usable period has ended. Please put it in the collection box" may be displayed on the customer display unit 205.

[0191] In addition, when a message such as "Please put the used XX coupon in the collection box" is displayed to encourage collection of the bonus medium, the process may not proceed unless an operation to confirm collection is performed. For example, when the second POS terminal 20 reads a coupon during product registration in the full self-service mode and determines that collection is necessary, it may display a "Collect OK" button on the customer side display unit 205 instead of or in addition to a notification that collection is necessary, and may prevent operation of the checkout button BT32 unless the "Collect OK" button is operated.

[0192] In addition, items other than the product code, such as a coupon bonus medium, may be readable at the checkout stage after product registration. Even in a mode in which the coupon can be read at the checkout stage, the process may not proceed unless an operation is performed to confirm the collection of the coupon. For example, in the semi-self mode (checkout-only mode), when the second POS terminal 20 reads a coupon and determines that collection is necessary, it may display a "Collect OK" button on the customer-side display unit 205 instead of or in addition to notifying the user that collection is necessary, and it may not be possible to operate the Finish (receipt) button BT40 unless the "Collect OK" button is operated.

[0193] (About the printing department) In the above, the second POS terminal 20 is provided with one printing unit 213 that can be rotatably changed in the direction (direction of the medium issuing port) from the clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the clerk side, but it may be provided with two printing units with a medium issuing port on each side. In other words, instead of one printing unit 213 that can be rotatably changed in the direction of the medium issuing port, the second POS terminal 20 may be provided with a clerk-side printing unit with a medium issuing port on the clerk side and a customer-side printing unit with a medium issuing port on the customer side separately.

[0194] (About the scanner part) In the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is a type that is held by an operator (a store clerk, a customer) and brought close to an object (such as a product) to recognize identification information, but it may be of another type. For example, it may be a fixed type that recognizes an object by bringing it close. The same applies to the store clerk-side scanner unit 212.

[0195] (Switching operation modes, etc.) When switching the operation mode, the second POS terminal 20 may display a message indicating that the operation mode is being switched on at least one of the customer display unit 205 or the store clerk display unit 210. For example, when switching from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) (step S106 in FIG. 16), a message such as "Switching to accounting-only mode" may be displayed on the customer display unit 205 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., several seconds) when switching (or before switching). Note that after switching the operation mode, a message indicating that the operation mode has been switched may be displayed.

[0196] In addition, when a store clerk logs in while in full self-service mode and no store clerk is logged in, the second POS terminal 20 may determine whether to maintain the full self-service mode, switch to normal mode, or switch to double scan mode depending on the store clerk's operation (e.g., button operation).

[0197] That is, when the second POS terminal 20 is in the full self-service mode in which the store clerk has not logged in, if the store clerk logs in, the second POS terminal 20 may display a button for maintaining the full self-service mode, a button for switching to the normal mode, and a button for switching to the double scan mode, and control the operation mode after login depending on which button is operated. For example, if a customer requests assistance with product registration to leave everything to the store clerk from now on (if a store clerk is called), the store clerk operates a button for switching to the normal mode after logging in, if a customer requests assistance with product registration to leave some of the product registration to the store clerk from now on (if a store clerk is called), the store clerk operates a button for switching to the double scan mode after logging in, and if the customer logs in for some reason (for example, to check the processing status, etc.) but wishes to register himself or does not need the support of a store clerk (or if the customer only logs in temporarily and cannot support the customer), the store clerk operates a button for maintaining the full self-service mode after logging in. If the full self-service mode is maintained after the store clerk logs in, from the viewpoint of privacy, etc., the product names and the like of the products registered by the customer may not be displayed on the store clerk's display unit 210. However, information that does not significantly affect privacy, etc. (such as the cumulative total amount being registered) may be displayed. If the cumulative total amount being registered is displayed, the store clerk can, for example, appropriately check the right to a lottery (whether or not the purchase amount has exceeded a predetermined amount, etc.), and therefore prepare for the lottery in advance.

[0198] Whether or not to display the product name, etc. of a product registered by a customer on the store clerk display unit 210 in full self-service mode when the store clerk is logged in may be set by at least one of the store clerk side (store clerk display unit 210) or the customer side (customer display unit 205).

[0199] The second POS terminal 20 is cleared from the logged-in state (changes from logged-in state to logged-out state) based on an explicit operation (logout operation) by the store clerk. Instead of or in addition to an explicit operation by the store clerk, the logged-in state may be cleared when a predetermined time (for example, which can be set for each terminal) has passed since the last operation by the store clerk (when no operation is performed for the predetermined time).

[0200] The above-mentioned hibernation state (pause mode) and the logout state may be the same. In other words, the above-mentioned logout operation is the operation of the pause button. However, the hibernation state and the logout state may be considered to be different states. For example, the hibernation state (pause mode) may be considered to be part of the login state (a state to which the device transitions when the pause button is operated in the login state). If the hibernation state and the logout state are considered to be different states, the logout operation is a different operation from the operation of the pause button.

[0201] However, for products that require the intervention of a store clerk (for example, products that need to be heated in a microwave or products that a store clerk takes out (meat buns, cigarettes, etc.)), the store clerk must be notified of the product, so the product may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 regardless of the above setting. In addition, for products that require age authentication (for example, cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, etc.), the store clerk must be notified of the product, so the product may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 regardless of the above setting. Whether or not a product requires the intervention of a store clerk may be determined in advance for each product.

[0202] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and designs that do not deviate from the gist of the present invention are also included.

[0203] (Other examples of restrictions on sending and receiving registration information) According to Fig. 19(A) and Fig. 20, the transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode is restricted (prohibited) during the period from the registration of one purchased item to the determination of the deposit amount (the transmission of registration information is not permitted), but the period during which the transmission of registration information is restricted is not limited to the above period. In other words, the transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may be restricted from a timing earlier (or later) than the timing of registering one purchased item. In other words, the second POS terminal 20 may restrict the reception of registration information transmitted from another terminal from a timing earlier (or later) than the timing of registering one purchased item. In addition, the restriction on the transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may be lifted from a timing earlier (or later) than the timing of determining the deposit amount. In other words, the second POS terminal 20 may lift the restriction on the reception of registration information transmitted from another terminal from a timing earlier (or later) than the timing of determining the deposit amount.

[0204] Specifically, in Fig. 19(A), the second POS terminal 20 transmits the transmission limit start information after the registration of one purchased item (step S402), but may transmit the transmission limit start information at other times. Also, in Fig. 19(A), the second POS terminal 20 transmits the transmission limit end information after the operation of the Finish (receipt) button BT40 (step S408), but may transmit the transmission limit end information at other times.

[0205] As an example, the transmission of registration information may be restricted not from the timing when the first purchased item is registered, but from the timing when the registration of the items is completed (the timing when the registration of all purchased items is completed). Specifically, the second POS terminal 20 may transmit the transmission restriction start information after the checkout button BT32 is operated (step S402).

[0206] As an example, the transmission restriction of the registration information may be lifted from the timing when the dispensed change is removed. Specifically, the second POS terminal 20 may transmit the transmission restriction end information after detecting the removal of the change (step S411).

[0207] The transmission restriction of the registration information may be lifted when the ejected receipt is removed. Specifically, the second POS terminal 20 may send the transmission restriction end information after detecting the removal of the receipt (step S413).

[0208] In the above, it has been explained that the transmission restriction period (reception restriction period) of registration information from the first POS terminal 10 to the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode (in other words, the reception restriction period of registration information at the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode) is not limited to the period shown in Figure 19 (A). However, the transmission restriction period (reception restriction period) of registration information from the first POS terminal 10 to the second POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) (in other words, the reception restriction period of registration information at the second POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode)) is similarly not limited to the period shown in Figure 19 (B).

[0209] (Other methods of control over sending and receiving registration information) 19 and 20, the second POS terminal 20 (receiver of registration information) in the full self mode transmits control information (transmission restriction start information, transmission restriction end information) to the first POS terminal 10 (sender of registration information) for determining whether the first POS terminal 10 can transmit the registration information, thereby controlling whether the first POS terminal 10 can transmit the registration information (i.e., whether the second POS terminal 20 in the full self mode can receive the registration information). However, the method of controlling whether the first POS terminal 10 can transmit the registration information (whether the second POS terminal 20 in the full self mode can receive the registration information) is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20.

[0210] For example, instead of transmitting control information (transmission restriction start information, transmission restriction end information) from the second POS terminal 20, information indicating the progress of processing in the second POS terminal 20 (see FIG. 19) (status information; for example, information that one purchased item has been registered, information that the checkout button has been pressed, information that the payment method selection screen has been displayed, etc.) may be appropriately transmitted to the first POS terminal 10 to control whether the first POS terminal 10 can transmit the registration information (i.e., whether the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode can receive the registration information). In other words, the first POS terminal 10 may control whether the first POS terminal 10 can transmit the registration information to the second POS terminal 20 (whether the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode can receive the registration information) based on the status information received from the second POS terminal 20.

[0211] In addition, when the second POS terminal 20 is in a specific operation mode (e.g., full self-service mode, semi-self-service mode (checkout only mode)), it may transmit the above-mentioned status information to terminals other than the first POS terminal 10 (e.g., other second POS terminals 20, the monitoring terminal 40, the store controller 30). This allows, for example, the monitoring terminal 40 to display on a screen the real-time processing status of each second POS terminal 20 based on the status information transmitted from each second POS terminal 20. In addition, the monitoring terminal 40 may be a mobile terminal (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook computer, etc.). In addition, the status information may be transmitted in all operation modes, not just in a specific operation mode.

[0212] The second POS terminal 20 may vary the granularity (type and number of statuses to be transmitted) of the status information transmitted to other terminals depending on the operation mode. For example, the second POS terminal 20 may transmit status information at a fine level in one mode (e.g., full self-service mode) and transmit status information at a coarse level in another mode (e.g., semi-self-service mode (checkout only mode)). That is, the second POS terminal 20 in one mode (e.g., full self-service mode) may transmit status information notifying all of the statuses (statuses in steps S400 to S414) shown in FIG. 19(A), and the second POS terminal 20 in another mode (e.g., semi-self-service mode (checkout only mode)) may transmit status information notifying some of the statuses (statuses in steps S420 to S434) shown in FIG. 19(B). The granularity of the status information to be transmitted (which statuses to be notified) may be set for each operation mode. The statuses shown in FIG. 19(A) and FIG. 19(B) are only examples, and other statuses may exist.

[0213] Moreover, the second POS terminal 20 may vary the granularity of the status information depending on the terminal to which the status information is to be sent instead of or in addition to the operation mode. For example, the status information may be sent to the monitoring terminal 40 at a finer level than to other terminals. The granularity of the status information may be set for each destination terminal.

[0214] The second POS terminal 20 (the receiver of the registration information) may not transmit any information to the first POS terminal 10 (the transmitter of the registration information), and the first POS terminal 10 may simply transmit the registration information, and the second POS terminal 20 may determine whether or not to receive the information depending on the progress of the process. In other words, the transmitter of the registration information may transmit the information unconditionally, and the receiver may determine whether or not to receive the information (more specifically, the information may be received once for the purpose of determination, and later stored in a storage unit, or the like). If the second POS terminal 20 does not accept the registration information transmitted from the first POS terminal 10, it responds to the first POS terminal 10 with information indicating that the registration information is not accepted (not to be carried over). The second POS terminal 20 may respond to the first POS terminal 10 with current status information together with the information indicating that the registration information is not accepted.

[0215] In addition, there may be cases where the next customer is already waiting in line at the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode (the receiver of the registration information). When the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode where the next customer is already waiting in line receives the registration information transmitted from another terminal, there is a possibility that a problem may occur regarding the order of processing between the next customer waiting in line and a customer moving from another terminal (a customer who settles the bill based on the registration information). Therefore, it is preferable to control the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode where the next customer is already waiting in line so as not to transmit the registration information, or to control the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode where the next customer is already waiting in line so as not to receive the registration information transmitted from another terminal. However, in preparation for an emergency, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode where the next customer is already waiting in line may also be provided with a function (such as a forced transmission button) that can forcibly transmit the registration information. In addition, whether or not the next customer is waiting in line may be monitored by, for example, a camera or various sensors.

[0216] In addition, in the case where the second POS terminal 20 in the full self mode is caused to display the registration start screen after the end of the settlement process (i.e., when no registration information has been received from another terminal at the stage of the end of the settlement process), the registration screen in the full self mode (initial registration screen) may be displayed instead of the registration start screen in the full self mode (FIG. 12(A)). Specifically, in step S208 in FIG. 17 (similar to step S328 in FIG. 18), the second POS terminal 20-1 may display the registration screen in the full self mode (initial registration screen) instead of the registration start screen in the full self mode. In other words, the operation of the registration start button BT30 on the registration start screen may be omitted.

[0217] In addition, in the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode, whether to display the registration screen or the registration start screen after the end of the settlement process may be controlled depending on whether the next customer is waiting in line. For example, in step S208 in Fig. 17, the second POS terminal 20-1 may display the registration start screen when the next customer is not waiting in line, and may display the registration screen when the next customer is waiting in line. In other words, the operation of the registration start button BT30 on the registration start screen for the next customer may be omitted.

[0218] (Transition from full self mode to normal mode) In the above, an example has been described in which the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode shifts from the full self-service mode to the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) depending on whether or not registration information has been received (FIG. 17), but the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may shift from the full self-service mode to the normal mode depending on whether or not registration information has been received. For example, if the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode stores registration information received from another terminal at the end of the settlement process at its own terminal, it may change its operation mode from the full self-service mode to the normal mode.

[0219] For example, an example has been described in which the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode controls whether or not to transmit registration information from another terminal to the terminal itself (FIG. 19(A)), but the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode that receives registration information transmitted from another terminal based on this control may transition to the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) (FIG. 17) or to the normal mode. In the normal mode, after the clerk completes product registration (registration process), the customer performs payment processing based on the registration information in the clerk's registration process (FIG. 6). However, when the terminal transitions to the normal mode after receiving registration information from another terminal, the customer performs payment processing based on the registration information received from the other terminal (registration information registered in the other terminal) after receiving the registration information from the other terminal.

[0220] (Mode transition from normal mode to full self mode) In the above, an example was described in which the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) transitions from the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) to the full-self-service mode depending on whether or not registration information has been received (FIG. 18). However, the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may also transition from the normal mode to the full-self-service mode depending on whether or not registration information has been received. For example, the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may change the operation mode from the normal mode to the full-self-service mode if product registration (registration process) for the next customer has not been started when the settlement process is completed at the terminal, and if the registration information received from the other terminal has not been stored when the settlement process is completed at the terminal, the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may change the operation mode from the normal mode to the full-self-service mode if product registration (registration process) for the next customer has not been started when the settlement process is completed at the terminal, and if the registration information received from the other terminal has not been stored when the settlement process is completed at the terminal, and if product registration (registration process) has not been started and if the registration information has not been received from the other terminal within a predetermined time after the settlement process is completed.

[0221] As described above, the second POS terminal 20 can change the operation mode between the normal mode and the full self-service mode, as well as between the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) and the full self-service mode. It is also possible to change between other modes (for example, between the normal mode and the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode)). In addition, as shown in Fig. 18 and Fig. 19, when changing to various operation modes, it is also possible to switch the display screen according to the changed operation mode.

[0222] In the above, an example in which the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode controls whether or not to transmit registration information from another terminal to the terminal itself (FIG. 19(A)) and an example in which the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) controls whether or not to transmit registration information from another terminal to the terminal itself (FIG. 19(B)) have been described, but the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may also control whether or not to transmit registration information from another terminal to the terminal itself. For example, the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may transmit the transmission restriction start information after starting product registration (after starting registration of one purchased product) and transmit the transmission restriction end information after accepting the operation of the Finish (receipt) button in the settlement process of the last customer including the next customer. The timing of transmitting the transmission restriction start information and the transmission restriction end information is not limited to the above. For example, the transmission restriction end information may be transmitted after detecting the removal of the change or the removal of the receipt in the settlement process of the last customer including the next customer.

[0223] (Control method in a mode in which a cashier ticket is used) In the above, an example has been described in which the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode transitions from the full self-service mode to the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) depending on whether registration information has been received (FIG. 17), but the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may transition from the full self-service mode to the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) depending on whether a bill issued by another terminal has been read. For example, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may transition from the full self-service mode to the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) if the bill has been read by the time the settlement process at the terminal is completed (for example, if the registration information and transaction identification information obtained from the read bill have been stored).

[0224] As described above, when the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode receives registration information from another terminal, it may switch from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) before executing the settlement process using the registration information (it may process the registration information received from the other terminal as settlement processing in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode)), or it may not need to switch from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) before executing the settlement process using the registration information (it may process the registration information received from the other terminal as settlement processing in full self-service mode), but the same is true when a bill is read. In other words, when the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode reads a bill, it may switch from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) before performing the settlement process using the registration information obtained from the bill (it may process the registration information obtained from the bill as the settlement process in the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode)), or it may not need to switch from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) before performing the settlement process using the registration information obtained from the bill (it may process the registration information obtained from the bill as the settlement process in the full self-service mode).

[0225] Furthermore, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may switch from the full self-service mode to the normal mode depending on whether or not a bill issued by another terminal has been read. For example, if the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode has read a bill by the time the settlement process at the terminal is completed, the second POS terminal 20 may switch from the full self-service mode to the normal mode in the same way as when the second POS terminal 20 has stored the registration information received from the other terminal at the time the settlement process at the terminal is completed.

[0226] In addition, when the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode reads a receipt, it may switch from full self-service mode to normal mode before performing the settlement process using the registration information obtained from the receipt (it may process the registration information obtained from the receipt as the settlement process in normal mode), but it does not have to switch from full self-service mode to normal mode before performing the settlement process using the registration information obtained from the receipt (it may process the registration information obtained from the receipt as the settlement process in full self-service mode).

[0227] In the above, an example has been described in which the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) transitions from the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) to the full-self-service mode depending on whether or not registration information has been received (FIG. 18), but instead of or in addition to transitioning depending on whether or not registration information has been received, the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) may transition from the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) to the full-self-service mode depending on whether or not a bill issued by another terminal has been read. For example, the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) may transition from the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) to the full-self-service mode if it has not read a bill by the end of the payment process (for example, if it has not stored registration information or transaction identification information obtained from the read bill). For example, the second POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) may change its operating mode from semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) to full-self-service mode if it has not read the bill by the time the payment process is completed and if it has not read the bill within a specified time after the payment process is completed.

[0228] In the above, an example has been described in which the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode transitions from the normal mode to the full self-service mode depending on whether or not registration information has been received, but instead of or in addition to transitioning depending on whether or not registration information has been received, the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may transition from the normal mode to the full self-service mode depending on whether or not a receipt issued by another terminal has been read. For example, the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may transition from the normal mode to the full self-service mode if product registration (registration process) for the next customer has not been started at the end of the settlement process at its own terminal, and the receipt has not been read by the end of the settlement process at its own terminal. Also, for example, the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may change the operation mode from the normal mode to the full self-service mode if product registration (registration process) for the next customer has not been started at the end of the settlement process at its own terminal, and the receipt has not been read by the end of the settlement process at its own terminal, and product registration has not been started and the receipt has not been read within a predetermined time after the end of the settlement process.

[0229] As described above, the second POS terminal 20 can change the operation mode based on whether or not a bill has been read, similarly to changing the operation mode based on whether or not registration information has been received.

[0230] In the above, the control of reading of various identification information (product code, member identification information, benefit identification information, etc.) by the second POS terminal 20 (customer scanner unit 206, store clerk scanner unit 212) has been described (FIG. 21). However, the second POS terminal 20 may always permit reading of receipts in any operation mode, whether by the customer scanner unit 206 or the store clerk scanner unit 212. However, if registration information waiting to be processed already exists (for example, if registration information received from another terminal has already been stored, or if registration information or transaction identification information obtained from another receipt previously read has already been stored), reading of the receipt may be prohibited (and a message may be displayed to the effect that reading is not possible because registration information waiting to be processed already exists).

[0231] The second POS terminal 20 may control the reading of the receipt depending on the operation mode, the processing status, etc. For example, when the customer side is available (e.g., when there is no customer on the customer side in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) or full-self-service mode), the customer side scanner unit 206 may be permitted to read the receipt, and when the customer side is not available (e.g., in normal mode, when there is a customer on the customer side in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) or full-self-service mode), the customer side scanner unit 206 may be prohibited from reading the receipt. However, even when the customer side is available, if there is already registered information waiting to be processed, the customer side scanner unit 206 may be prohibited from reading the receipt (and a message may be displayed indicating that the receipt cannot be read because there is already registered information waiting to be processed).

[0232] Also, if there is a receipt ticket that has not yet been read in the store, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may be permitted to read the receipt ticket, and if there is no receipt ticket that has not yet been read in the store, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may be prohibited from reading the receipt ticket. In other words, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may be permitted to read the receipt ticket only from the time when a receipt ticket is issued until the receipt ticket is read at any terminal. Also, as described above, if the customer side is available and there is a receipt ticket that has not yet been read in the store, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may be permitted to read the receipt ticket, and if the customer side is not available or there is no receipt ticket that has not yet been read in the store, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may be prohibited from reading the receipt ticket. Whether or not there is a receipt ticket that has not yet been read in the store may be managed, for example, by the store controller 30. For example, the second POS terminal 20 may transmit issuance information (e.g., identification information identifying an individual receipt, the issuance time, etc.) to the store controller 30 when issuing a receipt, and transmit read information (e.g., identification information identifying an individual receipt, the read time, etc.) to the store controller 30 when reading the receipt, so that the store controller 30 can determine whether or not an unread receipt exists in the store. Specifically, if a receipt in which only issuance information is stored exists, the store controller 30 determines that an unread receipt exists in the store, and if no receipt in which only issuance information is stored exists, the store controller 30 determines that an unread receipt does not exist in the store.

[0233] In addition, the reading of receipt tickets by the clerk scanner unit 212 may be controlled in the same way as the reading of receipt tickets by the customer scanner unit 206 (if the reading of receipt tickets by the customer scanner unit 206 is permitted, the reading of receipt tickets by the clerk scanner unit 212 may be permitted, and if the reading of receipt tickets by the customer scanner unit 206 is prohibited, the reading of receipt tickets by the clerk scanner unit 212 may be prohibited), but in consideration of operational convenience, the reading of receipt tickets by the clerk scanner unit 212 may be permitted even if the reading of receipt tickets by the customer scanner unit 206 is prohibited.

[0234] (Control method in recall processing) In the POS system 1, after the shift from the registration side to the settlement side, a process (recall process) can be performed to return the transaction to the registration side again for the purpose of changing the purchased item (cancellation, addition, change). The call back process is performed based on a predetermined operation by a store clerk (for example, an operation of declaring a call back by specifying the transaction from the registration side, an operation of declaring a call back from the settlement side, an operation of declaring a call back by specifying the transaction from the monitoring terminal 40, etc.). The transition of the operation mode related to the call back process will be described below.

[0235] For example, if the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode receives registration information from another terminal (or reads a receipt issued by another terminal) and transitions from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (a mode for accounting only), and then a recall process is performed, the registration information on the settlement side (the registration information on the second POS terminal 20) moves to the registration side (the terminal that registered the product related to the registration information; specifically, the terminal that sent the registration information or the terminal that issued the receipt). In other words, when a recall process is performed, the registration information to be recalled moves (returns) from the settlement side to the registration side.

[0236] If the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) where the recall process has been performed stores the next registration information, etc. (if it stores registration information received from another terminal in addition to the registration information moved to the registration side, or if it stores registration information or transaction identification information obtained from the accounting ticket), it maintains the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) and performs settlement processing based on the next registration information. On the other hand, if the second POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) where the recall process has been performed does not store the next registration information, etc., it may switch from the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) to the full-self-service mode immediately, or when a predetermined time has passed without obtaining the next registration information.

[0237] Also, for example, when the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode receives registration information from another terminal (or reads a bill issued by another terminal) and transitions from the full self-service mode to the normal mode, and then a call-back process is performed, if the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode where the call-back process is performed stores the next registration information, etc., it maintains the normal mode and executes a settlement process based on the next registration information, and if product registration has started on the registration side of its own terminal, it maintains the normal mode and executes a settlement process based on the registration information of its own terminal. On the other hand, if the second POS terminal 20 in the normal mode where the call-back process is performed does not store the next registration information, etc., or if product registration has not started on the registration side of its own terminal, it may transition from the normal mode to the full self-service mode immediately, or when a predetermined time has passed without obtaining the next registration information.

[0238] As described above, the operation mode can be changed based on the execution of the recall process. Specifically, when the full self-service mode is switched to another operation mode (semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode), normal mode) by receiving registration information from another terminal (or by reading a bill issued by another terminal), and the recall process is performed and there is no other registration information that can be processed, the operation mode can be changed from the other operation mode (semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode), normal mode) to the original operation mode (full self-service mode) immediately or when a predetermined time has passed without receiving the next registration information.

[0239] It should be noted that after the execution of the recall process, the operation mode does not have to be changed back to the original operation mode. For example, after the execution of the recall process, the operation mode may be changed to an operation mode different from the original operation mode. For example, when the recall process is performed after the terminal has transitioned to semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) by receiving registration information from another terminal (or by reading a bill issued by another terminal) while in the normal mode, and there is no other registration information that can be processed, the operation mode may be changed to full-self-service mode without changing back to the original normal mode from the semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) immediately or after a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving the next registration information.

[0240] Also, the operating mode does not have to be changed after the callback process is executed. For example, if the callback process is executed after the device has switched to semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) by receiving registration information from another terminal (or by reading a bill issued by another terminal) while in normal mode, and there is no other registration information that can be processed, and even if a predetermined time has passed without receiving the next registration information, the operating mode may not be changed and the device may remain in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode).

[0241] In addition, in the operation to execute the recall process, the store clerk may be able to specify whether or not to change the operation mode after the recall process is executed, and the operation mode after the recall process is executed (i.e., which operation mode to change to).

[0242] In addition, the call back process can be performed either before or after the deposit (for example, after the deposit is made, if the End (receipt) button is not pressed). When the call back process is performed after the deposit, the entire amount deposited is paid out before the call back process is performed (or the entire amount deposited is paid out as part of the call back process).

[0243] In the above, it has been explained that when the recall process is performed, the registration information to be recalled is moved (returned) from the settlement side to the registration side, but when the recall process is performed, the registration information to be recalled does not have to be deleted from the settlement side. For example, the settlement side may add information indicating that the registration information to be recalled is the registration information to be recalled (such as a flag indicating that the registration information is the registration information to be recalled) to the registration information to be recalled, so that the settlement process using the registration information to be recalled is not performed after the recall process.

[0244] (Method of controlling operation modes based on other events) Although it has been described that the operation mode is changed or the display screen is switched based on the reception of registration information from another terminal, the reading of a bill issued by another terminal, or the execution of a recall process, the operation mode may be changed or the display screen may be switched based on other events. Specifically, the operation mode may be changed or the display screen may be switched when registration information to be used in a payment process is about to be acquired. For example, the operation mode may be changed or the display screen may be switched based on requesting registration information from a terminal that stores the registration information (e.g., the second POS terminal 20 that executed the registration process, the store controller 30 that acquired the registration information from the second POS terminal 20 that executed the registration process, etc.), receiving information (also called advance notice information or advance notice flag) indicating that registration information will be transmitted soon from the terminal that stores the registration information, or the like. An example of advance notice information is information that is sent (notified) when it is determined that the destination of the registration information is the user's own terminal (for example, when the user's own terminal is given priority over other terminals based on the processing status, or when the settlement process cannot be performed on any terminal other than the user's own terminal due to a situation such as insufficient change), and it is determined that the registration side has designated a terminal that will soon perform the settlement process (i.e., the user's own terminal is designated) (when the subtotal button is operated on the registration side).

[0245] In addition, the terminal may constantly or at a specified time monitor whether there is registration information to be processed on its own terminal (for example, by inquiring of other terminals), and when it is recognized that there is registration information to be processed on its own terminal, it may change the operating mode or switch the display screen.

[0246] In addition, when the terminal transitions from a state in which settlement processing was being performed at the other terminal to a state in which settlement processing is no longer being performed at the other terminal (when the change in state is detected, for example, when detected by a notification from or inquiry to the other terminal), the operation mode may be changed or the display screen may be switched. For example, when the three terminals, including the terminal itself, are all in normal mode, and the other two terminals both transition to semi-self mode (registration-only mode), the terminal itself may be changed to semi-self mode (accounting-only mode).

[0247] The registration side (the sender of the registration information) may transmit the status monitoring data, write the status of each while transferring it to the other terminals in sequence, and when all writing is completed, determine a terminal to transmit the registration information according to a priority order (priority order based on the machine number, travel distance, remaining number of change slips, etc.). When determining a terminal to transmit the registration information on the registration side, the store clerk does not specify a terminal to transmit the registration information. The other terminal, which is the receiver of the registration information, may also obtain the status monitoring data and determine to which terminal the registration information will be transmitted or to its own terminal based on the same priority order as the registration side, prior to or approximately simultaneously with the registration side's determination, and may change the operation mode or switch the display screen before actually receiving the registration information.

[0248] (Other controls in full self mode) In the full self-service mode where no store clerk is involved, security may be strengthened (measures to prevent unauthorized use may be strengthened). Specifically, for example, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may be configured so that a customer cannot operate it unless the member is authenticated. In other words, when operating in the full self-service mode, the second POS terminal 20 may request the member to authenticate when starting each transaction (product registration). Two modes have been described above: one in which the registration start screen (FIG. 12(A)) is displayed as the screen at the start of each transaction (product registration), and the other in which a registration screen (initial registration screen) is displayed without displaying the registration start screen. However, each may be configured as follows.

[0249] In the case of a mode in which a registration start screen is displayed as a start screen for each transaction (product registration), the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may, for example, before reading a barcode on a membership card or the like, display on the customer-side display unit 205 a message on the registration start screen instructing the user to read the barcode on the membership card or the like and make the registration start button BT30 inoperable (for example, by displaying the button in a grayed-out or non-displayed state), and when the barcode is read, make it possible to operate the registration start button BT30. Also, for example, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may, for example, before reading a barcode on a membership card or the like, display on the customer-side display unit 205 a member authentication screen displaying a message instructing the user to read the barcode on the membership card or the like, and when the barcode is read, switch the display from the member authentication screen to the registration start screen (the registration start button BT30 can be operated). In addition, member authentication may be by methods other than reading a barcode attached to a membership card, etc. (such as a method using a mobile terminal, etc. or an IC chip on various cards), or it may be by a method that does not use a medium, etc. (for example, inputting a membership number, etc., biometric authentication, etc.).

[0250] The same is true for the case where a registration screen (initial registration screen) is displayed as a start screen for each transaction (product registration). For example, before a barcode attached to a membership card or the like is read, the customer-side display unit 205 may display a message on the registration screen (initial registration screen) instructing the customer to read the barcode attached to the membership card or the like, and may disable reading by the customer-side scanner unit 206 or operation of a preset button (such as the "vegetable" button BT38), and may enable reading by the customer-side scanner unit 206 or operation of a preset button when the barcode is read. For example, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may display the above-mentioned member authentication screen before reading a barcode attached to a membership card or the like, and may switch the display from the member authentication screen to the registration screen (initial registration screen) when the barcode is read.

[0251] The member authentication may be switched on / off manually or automatically. For example, in the POS system 1, a late-night time zone may be set in advance (for example, the setting contents may be stored in the store controller 30), and the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may turn on the member authentication when the current date and time is a late-night time zone, and turn off the member authentication when the current date and time is not a late-night time zone. In other words, when the late-night time zone is entered, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may automatically become unusable without member authentication, and when the late-night time zone is exited, the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may automatically become usable without member authentication. Also, when a store clerk is not near the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode (for example, as determined by a sensor or the like), the member authentication may be turned on, and when a store clerk is near, the member authentication may be turned off. Also, the member authentication may be turned on only when it is a late-night time zone and there is no store clerk nearby, or the member authentication may be turned off only when it is not a late-night time zone and there is a store clerk nearby.

[0252] Instead of or in addition to strengthening security (strengthening measures to prevent fraudulent use), an incentive may be given to the use of the full self-service mode from the viewpoint of promoting the use of the full self-service mode. For example, the benefits given by the second POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode may be made more advantageous to customers than the benefits given by the second POS terminal 20 in other modes. In other words, the second POS terminal 20 may give more benefits to a member identified from a membership card or the like in the full self-service mode than in other modes, even if other conditions such as the total amount of purchases made this time and past purchasing records are the same.

[0253] (POS system configuration) 1 uses a change dispenser (change dispenser 109), but a drawer may be used instead of or in addition to the change dispenser (change dispenser 109). In other words, the first POS terminal 10 may be a general POS terminal.

[0254] 1 includes one first POS terminal 10 and two second POS terminals 20 as POS terminals, but the configuration of the POS terminals is not limited to this. Specifically, the number of first POS terminals 10 may be zero (not included) or two or more, and the number of second POS terminals 20 may be one or three or more. For example, in a configuration including three second POS terminals 20 but not including a first POS terminal 10 (i.e., a POS system in which one second POS terminal 20 is provided in place of the one first POS terminal 10 in the POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1), various operations are possible. Some examples are given below.

[0255] For example, one second POS terminal 20 is operated in normal mode and the other two second POS terminals 20 are operated in full self-service mode, and depending on the situation, the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode is switched to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode). In other words, by transmitting registration information registered by a store clerk at the second POS terminal 20 in normal mode to the second POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode, the second POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is transmitted is switched from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode).

[0256] Also, for example, all three machines are operated in the full self-service mode, and depending on the situation, some of the machines are switched to an operation mode (normal mode, double scan mode) in which a store clerk supports product registration.

[0257] For example, one machine can be operated in full self-service mode and the other two in semi-self-service mode (one in registration-only mode and the other in payment-only mode), and depending on the situation, one of the full self-service machines can be switched to an operating mode (normal mode, double scan mode) in which a store clerk assists with product registration.

[0258] Also, for example, all three terminals are operated in normal mode, and some of the terminals are switched to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) depending on the situation, in which the customer settles the bill at another terminal. The control for switching from normal mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) may be the same as the control for switching from full self-service mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode). That is, the difference is that in full self-service mode, the customer registers the product, whereas in normal mode, the store clerk registers the product. However, the normal mode may be switched to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) based on receiving registration information from another terminal (or after the processing is completed if the processing is in progress). That is, the registration information registered by the store clerk at the second POS terminal 20 in normal mode is transmitted to another second POS terminal 20 in normal mode, thereby switching the second POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is transmitted from the normal mode to semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode).

[0259] Furthermore, the configuration of the POS system may include a terminal dedicated to product registration and a terminal dedicated to settlement. For example, the configuration may include one dedicated product registration terminal and three second POS terminals 20. In this configuration, of the three second POS terminals 20, for example, one may be in full self-service mode or normal mode and two may be in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) during normal times. The configuration may also include two second POS terminals 20 and one settlement only terminal. In this configuration, of the two second POS terminals 20, for example, one may be in full self-service mode or normal mode and one may be in semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) during normal times. The configuration may also include one dedicated product registration terminal, one second POS terminal 20, and one settlement only terminal. In this configuration, of the one second POS terminal 20, for example, the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) during normal times.

[0260] Fig. 22 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the send button for sending registration information. Specifically, each of Fig. 22(A) to Fig. 22(C) shows a part (lower right part) of the registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the second POS terminal 20-1 in the semi-self mode (registration-only mode).

[0261] The scenes shown in each of Fig. 22(A) to Fig. 22(C) are different from the scene shown in Fig. 14. Specifically, Fig. 14 is a display example of one second POS terminal 20 (the second POS terminal 20-1 in semi-self mode (registration-only mode)) in a configuration in which there are two second POS terminals 20 (the second POS terminal 20-1 and the second POS terminal 20-2). On the other hand, each of Fig. 22(A) and Fig. 22(B) is a display example of one second POS terminal 20 (the second POS terminal 20-1 in semi-self mode (registration-only mode)) in a configuration in which there are three second POS terminals 20 (assuming that they are the second POS terminal 20-1, the second POS terminal 20-2, and the second POS terminal 20-3). Also, Figure 22 (C) is a display example of one second POS terminal 20 (second POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode) in a configuration where there are three second POS terminals 20 (assuming they are second POS terminal 20-1, second POS terminal 20-2, and second POS terminal 20-3).

[0262] The second POS terminal 20 may indicate the state (status) of the destination terminal on the transmission button for transmitting the registration information.

[0263] For example, when the second POS terminal 20-2 in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode), which is one of the candidates for the destination of the registration information, is short of receipt paper (when it is almost out; determined by a threshold), the second POS terminal 20-1 may display an image GA10 indicating that receipts are running low (for example, above the 20-2 register button BT22) in association with the 20-2 register button BT22 corresponding to the second POS terminal 20-2, as shown in FIG. 22(A). Note that information regarding the remaining amount of receipt paper at each terminal may be shared within the POS system. In other words, for example, when one terminal runs out of receipt paper, information indicating that receipt paper is running low may be sent to other terminals (all other terminals including the monitoring terminal 40). The same applies to information regarding change, etc.

[0264] Furthermore, when the second POS terminal 20-1 is unable to communicate with the second POS terminal 20-3 in semi-self mode (checkout only mode), which is one of the candidates for the destination of the registration information, the second POS terminal 20-1 may display an image GA11 indicating that the terminal is offline, in association with the 20-3 register button BT22 corresponding to the second POS terminal 20-3, as shown in Fig. 22(A). Note that the availability of communication (offline or not) may be determined, for example, by periodically transmitting and receiving information for confirming the availability of communication.

[0265] In Fig. 22(A), the diagonal lines on the register button BT22 20-3 indicate that registration information cannot be sent to the second POS terminal 20-3. In Fig. 14, the display mode of the buttons for which operation is not valid is changed (for example, grayed down), but they may be diagonally lined as described above. The same applies to Fig. 22(B) and Fig. 23(C).

[0266] In addition, when the second POS terminal 20-2 in semi-self-service mode (checkout only mode), which is one of the candidates for the destination of the registration information, runs out of change (of one denomination) (or when there is so little that it is difficult to process the next customer's payment; determined using a threshold value), the second POS terminal 20-1 may display an image GA12 indicating that there is no change in association with the 20-2 register button BT22, as shown in Figure 22 (B).

[0267] Furthermore, when the change (one denomination) of the second POS terminal 20-3 in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode), which is one of the candidates for the destination of the registration information, is about to overflow (when it is about to overflow, determined by a threshold), the second POS terminal 20-1 may display an image GA14 indicating that the change is about to overflow in association with the 20-3 register button BT23 as shown in Fig. 22(B) . Furthermore, when maintenance is being performed (in this case, maintenance to discharge the overflowing change), an image GA19 indicating that maintenance is being performed may be displayed in association with the 20-3 register button BT23 as shown in Fig. 22(B) .

[0268] In addition, when the change (of one denomination) of the second POS terminal 20-2 in full self-service mode, which is one of the candidates for the destination of the registration information, is about to overflow, the second POS terminal 20-1 may display an image GA14 indicating that the change is about to overflow in association with the 20-2 register button BT22, as shown in FIG. 22(C).

[0269] In addition, when the second POS terminal 20-1 is restricting the transmission of registration information to the second POS terminal 20-3 in full self-service mode, which is one of the candidates for the destination of the registration information (handover is prohibited; see Figures 19 and 20), the second POS terminal 20-1 may display an image GA18 indicating that the transmission of registration information is restricted, in association with the 20-3 register button BT23, as shown in Figure 22 (C).

[0270] Although not explained in Fig. 14, the change status button BT27 shown in Figs. 22(A) to 22(C) is a button (a button for displaying the number of coins of each denomination, etc.) for checking the status of the change dispenser 209 of the own terminal (the second POS terminal 20-1). When the own terminal is short of change (of one denomination) (when it is nearly out; determined by a threshold), an image GA20 indicating that there is insufficient change may be displayed in association with the change status button BT27, as shown in Fig. 22(C). By displaying the image GA20, it is possible to encourage the user to operate the change status button BT27 (to check the number of coins of each denomination, etc.).

[0271] In addition, if a receipt cannot be issued (for example, if the paper is out), it may be displayed in a manner (grayed out, crossed out, etc.) that operation of the receipt button BT25 is invalid, i.e., that a receipt cannot be issued.

[0272] The following supplementary notes are disclosed below. (Appendix A1) a first reading means for reading the identification information and operated by a store clerk; a second reading means for reading the identification information and operated by a customer; a read control means for controlling reading of the identification information by the first reading means and the second reading means, The reading control means A product sales data processing device that can be controlled between a first mode that prohibits the second reading means from reading product identification information and a second mode that permits the second reading means to read product identification information.

[0273] According to supplementary note A1, the scanner can be suitably controlled according to the situation. Specifically, whether or not the second reading means (customer side scanner unit 206) can read the product code can be suitably controlled according to the operation mode. Also, when the second reading means (customer side scanner unit 206) reads the customer's own product code, there may be a problem that the whole process is slowed down due to a mistake such as re-reading a product that has already been read. However, by operating in the first operation mode for customers who are likely to make mistakes, it is possible to prohibit the registration of products.

[0274] (Appendix A2) The reading control means The merchandise sales data processing device according to appended claim A1, wherein in both the first mode and the second mode, reading of merchandise identification information by the first reading means is permitted.

[0275] According to supplementary note A2, the scanner can be appropriately controlled according to the situation. Specifically, the first reading means (clerk-side scanner unit 212) can be controlled to be permitted to read the product code regardless of the operation mode.

[0276] (Appendix A3) The reading control means In both the first mode and the second mode, reading of identification information other than the identification information of the commodity by the first reading means is permitted; The product sales data processing device according to claim A1 or A2, wherein in both the first mode and the second mode, reading of the other identification information by the second reading means is permitted.

[0277] According to supplementary note A3, the scanner can be appropriately controlled according to the situation. Specifically, the scanner can be controlled to permit reading of identification information other than the product code, regardless of whether the first reading means (clerk-side scanner unit 212) or the second reading means (customer-side scanner unit 206) is used, or regardless of the operation mode.

[0278] (Appendix A4) The other identification information is The product sales data processing device according to Appendix A3, characterized in that the information is identification information of the customer or identification information of a benefit to be given to the customer.

[0279] According to Appendix A4, the reading of member identification information, privilege identification information, etc. can be controlled to be permitted whether the first reading means (store clerk side scanner unit 212) or the second reading means (customer side scanner unit 206) is used, and regardless of the operating mode.

[0280] (Appendix A5) a determination means for determining whether or not the special offer medium on which the special offer identification information is printed needs to be collected based on the special offer identification information; a notification means for notifying the user that the bonus medium needs to be collected when the bonus medium needs to be collected; The product sales data processing device according to claim A4,

[0281] According to appended note A5, the customer can be notified about the collection of the bonus medium as necessary.

[0282] (Appendix A6) A product sales data processing system including the product sales data processing device according to any one of Appendix A1 to Appendix A5.

[0283] (Appendix A7) A program for causing a computer to function as a product sales data processing device, the computer comprising: a first reading means for reading identification information and operated by a store clerk; and a second reading means for reading identification information and operated by a customer, the program comprising: The computer, a read control means for controlling the reading of the identification information by the first reading means and the second reading means; Functioning as a The reading control means A program capable of being controlled between a first mode in which the second reading means is prohibited from reading the identification information of a commodity, and a second mode in which the second reading means is permitted to read the identification information of a commodity.

[0284] Incidentally, in recent store operations, there are cases where cash registers installed in stores go unused. For example, in a store that has multiple face-to-face semi-self-service registers, unused face-to-face semi-self-service registers occur during times when there are not enough cashiers (times when tasks other than customer service (inspection, product delivery, checking expiry dates, disposal tasks, etc.) are performed, and late night hours). On the other hand, during busy times, even if all cashiers are in charge of the registers, many customers may end up waiting in front of the register. Also, even during times when there are not enough cashiers, many customers may end up waiting in front of the register without realizing it.

[0285] Further notes are disclosed below. (Appendix B1) A product sales data processing device capable of displaying on a display unit a registration screen for a customer to register a product by himself or a checkout screen for a customer to checkout by himself, A detection means for detecting the presence or absence of information regarding a settlement to be processed by the device itself; a control means for displaying the settlement screen on the display unit when the detection means detects information related to the settlement while the device itself is not being operated; A product sales data processing device comprising:

[0286] According to supplementary note B1, customers can be served efficiently. Specifically, when the detection means detects information related to payment while the device is not being operated (for example, when registration information transmitted from another terminal is received, when coded information printed on a bill issued by another terminal is recognized, etc.), the payment screen is displayed, which prompts the user to operate the device appropriately, and customers can be served efficiently.

[0287] (Appendix B2) An acquisition means for acquiring product registration data, The detection means is The product sales data processing device according to claim B1, wherein the registration data acquired by the acquisition means is detected as information related to the settlement.

[0288] According to Appendix B2, customers can be handled efficiently.

[0289] (Appendix B3) The control means When the device detects information related to the settlement while the device is being operated, the device controls the display unit to display the settlement screen after the operation is completed; A product sales data processing device as described in Appendix B1 or Appendix B2, characterized in that if the device does not detect any information regarding the settlement while being operated, after the operation is completed, the device controls the display unit to display the registration screen or a registration start screen that allows the customer to start registering products themselves.

[0290] According to supplementary note B3, customers can be served efficiently. Specifically, since an appropriate screen is displayed, operations are appropriately prompted, and customers can be served efficiently.

[0291] (Appendix B4) A product sales data processing device described in any of Appendices B1 to B3, characterized in that it has an output unit that outputs information notifying the start of display of at least one of the settlement screen or the registration screen when the screen is displayed on the display unit.

[0292] According to supplementary note B4, it is possible to notify the user about the display on the screen.

[0293] (Appendix B5) The control means Determine whether to start settlement processing based on the processing status of the own device; A product sales data processing device as described in any of Appendices B1 to B4, characterized in that when the processing status of the device itself is in a specified state, the device controls so that settlement processing based on information regarding the settlement newly detected by the detection means is not started.

[0294] According to supplementary note B5, it is possible to control whether or not to receive registration data depending on the processing status of the own device.

[0295] (Appendix B6) The control means A product sales data processing device as described in claim 5, characterized in that it outputs information indicating the processing status of its own device so that settlement processing based on the settlement information newly detected by the detection means is not started when the processing status of the own device is in a specified status.

[0296] According to supplementary note B6, it is possible to suitably control the transmission of registration data from other devices to the own device.

[0297] (Appendix B7) A product sales data processing device as described in Appendix B5 or Appendix B6, characterized in that the specified situation is any one of a situation in which the deposited amount has not been determined, a situation in which the dispensed change has not been removed, or a situation in which the issued receipt has not been removed.

[0298] According to supplementary note B7, reception of registration data can be suitably controlled based on whether the process of the own device is about to end.

[0299] (Appendix B8) A product sales data processing system including a product sales data processing device according to any one of Appendix B1 to Appendix B5.

[0300] (Appendix B9) A program that causes a computer to function as a product sales data processing device capable of displaying on a display unit a registration screen for a customer to register a product by himself or a checkout screen for a customer to checkout by himself, The computer, A detection means for detecting the presence or absence of information regarding a settlement to be processed by the device itself; a control means for displaying the settlement screen on the display unit when the detection means detects information related to the settlement while the device itself is not being operated; A program characterized by causing the program to function as a

[0301] Further notes are disclosed below. (Appendix C1) A product sales data processing device (second POS terminal 20) having a first operation mode (normal mode, full self-service mode, double scan mode) for settling a bill based on registration data registered in the device itself, and a second operation mode (semi-self-service mode) for settling a bill based on registration data (registration information) registered in another device, A receiving means for receiving registration data registered in another device; A switching means for switching the operation mode; Equipped with The switching means is 2. A product sales data processing device, comprising: a processor for processing product sales data, the processor being operable to switch an operation mode to the second operation mode when the receiving means receives registration data in the first operation mode.

[0302] According to the appended note C1, the commodity sales data processing device (the second POS terminal 20) can be effectively utilized by switching from the first operation mode to the second operation mode. In addition, by utilizing it effectively, the customer can be handled efficiently.

[0303] (Appendix C2) The product sales data processing device according to appended claim C1, further comprising a prohibition means for prohibiting said receiving means from receiving registration data when the processing status of said device is a predetermined status.

[0304] According to supplementary note C2, mode switching to the second operation mode can be suitably controlled.

[0305] (Appendix C3) The product sales data processing device described in Appendix C2, characterized in that the specified situation is any one of a situation in which the deposited amount has not been confirmed, a situation in which the dispensed change has not been removed, or a situation in which the issued receipt has not been removed.

[0306] According to supplementary note C3, it is possible to suitably control the mode switching to the second operation mode.

[0307] (Appendix C4) A product sales data processing device described in any of Appendix C1 to Appendix C3, characterized in that if the receiving means has not received registration data at the end of settlement in the second operating mode, a waiting screen is displayed until registration data is received.

[0308] According to appendix C4, it becomes easy to know that the registration information is waiting to be received in the second operation mode.

[0309] (Appendix C5) The switching means is The product sales data processing device according to appended claim C4, wherein when a predetermined time has elapsed since the display of the standby screen, the operation mode is switched to the first operation mode.

[0310] According to supplementary note C5, by switching from the second operation mode to the first operation mode, the product sales data processing device (the second POS terminal 20) can be effectively utilized.

[0311] (Appendix C6) The switching means is A product sales data processing device as described in any of Appendix C1 to Appendix C3, characterized in that if the receiving means has not received registration data at the end of settlement in the second operating mode, the operating mode is switched to the first operating mode.

[0312] According to supplementary note C6, by switching from the second operation mode to the first operation mode, the product sales data processing device (the second POS terminal 20) can be effectively utilized.

[0313] (Appendix C7) A product sales data processing system including the product sales data processing device according to any one of Appendix C1 to Appendix C6.

[0314] (Appendix C8) A program for causing a computer to function as a product sales data processing device having a first operation mode for settling based on registration data registered in the device itself and a second operation mode for settling based on registration data registered in another device, The computer, A receiving means for receiving registration data registered in another device; Switching means for switching operation modes Functioning as a The switching means is a program for switching an operation mode to the second operation mode when the receiving means receives registration data in the first operation mode;

[0315] A program for implementing one or more of the above-described POS system 1, the first POS terminal 10, the second POS terminal 20, and the monitoring terminal 40 may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read and executed by a computer system. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as 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 a 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 or the like 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 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]

[0316] 1. POS system 10…First POS terminal 20…Second POS terminal 30…Store Controller 40…Monitoring terminal 101...CPU 102...ROM 103…RAM 104...Hard disk 105…Customer side display section 108…Card payment section 109…Change machine 110...Staff side display section 111…Key operation section 112…Scanner section 113...Printing Department 114...Audio output section 115…Communications Department 201...CPU 202...ROM 203...RAM 204...Hard disk 205…Customer side display section 206…Customer side scanner section 208…Card payment department 209…Change machine 210...Staff side display section 211...Key operation section 212…Clerk side scanner 213…Printing Department 214...Audio output unit 215…Communications Department

Claims

1. A system including a plurality of product sales data processing devices having, as operation modes during normal business, at least a normal mode in which product registration by a store clerk and settlement by a customer are performed, and a registration-only mode in which product registration is exclusively performed by a store clerk, The product sales data processing device includes: a mode transition receiving means for receiving a mode transition operation for transitioning an operation mode; mode transition means for executing a mode transition when the mode transition reception means receives the mode transition operation; A communication means for communicating with the other product sales data processing device; a display means for displaying a state of the other product sales data processing devices on a registration screen in the registration-only mode; Equipped with one of the product sales data processing devices transmits registration information by the product registration to the other of the product sales data processing devices by the communication means; When the other product sales data processing device receives the registration information by the communication means, the other product sales data processing device can execute a mode transition by the mode transition means, When the other product sales data processing device receives the registration information and executes a mode transition, the other product sales data processing device transmits mode change information to the one product sales data processing device that is a transmission source of the registration information by the communication means, When the one of the product sales data processing devices receives the mode change information by the communication means, the one of the product sales data processing devices updates the state of the other of the product sales data processing devices displayed by the display means. A system characterized by:

2. When one of the product sales data processing devices receives, via the communication means, transmission restriction start information for starting a transmission restriction on the registration information to another of the product sales data processing devices, the product sales data processing device restricts transmission of the registration information to the other of the product sales data processing devices until the product sales data processing device receives transmission restriction end information for terminating the transmission restriction on the other of the product sales data processing devices.

2. The system of claim 1.

3. The communication means comprises: The registration information can be transmitted whether the device is operating in the registration-only mode or in the normal mode.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A product sales data processing device described in a system described in any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A program for causing a computer to function as a merchandise sales data processing device in a system including a plurality of merchandise sales data processing devices each having a display unit and having, as operation modes during normal business, at least a normal mode in which a store clerk performs merchandise registration and a customer performs payment, and a registration-only mode in which the store clerk exclusively performs merchandise registration, The computer, a mode transition receiving means for receiving a mode transition operation for transitioning an operation mode from a store clerk; mode transition means for executing a mode transition when the mode transition reception means receives the mode transition operation; A communication means for communicating with the other product sales data processing device; A display control means for displaying on a display unit the status of the other product sales data processing devices on the registration screen of the registration-only mode. Function as a one of the product sales data processing devices transmits registration information by the product registration to the other of the product sales data processing devices by the communication means; When the other product sales data processing device receives the registration information by the communication means, the mode transition means executes a mode transition, When the other one of the product sales data processing devices receives the registration information and executes a mode transition, the other one of the product sales data processing devices transmits mode change information to the one of the product sales data processing devices that transmitted the registration information by the communication means; A program that causes the computer to function so that, when the one product sales data processing device receives the mode change information via the communication means, the state of the other product sales data processing device displayed by the display control means is updated.

Images