Sales data processing device and program

Abstract

To provide an item sales data processor and a program that can prevent unintended switching of operation modes.SOLUTION: A POS terminal 20 includes a customer-side scanner unit 206 and a clerk-side scanner unit 212. The POS terminal 20 includes a change machine 209 that performs settlement processing based on registration details of the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the clerk-side scanner unit 212, and a CPU 201 that switches a usage status of the clerk-side scanner unit 212. The CPU 201 inhibits registration processing in the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the clerk-side scanner unit 212, or switching of the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the clerk-side scanner unit 212 when the change machine 209 is deposited.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] For example, in supermarkets and convenience stores, POS devices have been proposed that allow both store clerks and customers to pay for products (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This POS system is switchable between three different operating modes: a face-to-face mode in which the store clerk and customer meet face-to-face and only the store clerk performs operations from registering products to paying, a semi-self-service mode in which the store clerk registers products but the customer performs the paying operation, and a full-self-service mode in which the customer performs all operations from registering products to paying. [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, there is a risk that the operation mode may be unintentionally switched due to an operational error by a store clerk operating the POS system.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a product sales data processing device and a program that prevent unintended switching of operation modes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a product sales data processing device which is one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing device used for selling products, and is characterized in that it comprises: a clerk registration means for allowing a clerk to register products; a customer registration means for allowing a customer to register products; a settlement means for performing a settlement process based on the registration contents of at least one of the clerk registration means and the customer registration means; a switching means for switching the usage state of the clerk registration means; and a prohibition means for prohibiting switching by the switching means when the registration process in the clerk registration means and the customer registration means, or the settlement start process in the settlement means is executed.

[0007] Based on the above, unintended switching of the operation mode can be prevented.

[0008] The above-mentioned product sales data processing device may further comprise a notification means for notifying that switching by the switching means has been prohibited by the prohibition means.

[0009] Based on the above, it is possible to make it easier for the store clerk to recognize that switching of the operation mode is prohibited.

[0010] The above-mentioned product sales data processing device may further comprise a cancellation means for cancelling the prohibition of switching by the prohibition means when the customer registration means is in an available state.

[0011] According to the above, by notifying the store clerk, the time required for registering purchased items can be shortened.

[0012] The product sales data processing device may further comprise a take-over means for taking over, when the prohibition is lifted by the lifting means, information processed before the prohibition by the prohibiting means after switching by the switching means.

[0013] According to the above, settlement can be carried out smoothly.

[0014] The above-mentioned product sales data processing device may further comprise a discarding means for discarding information processed by the prohibiting means before the prohibition was imposed, when the prohibition is lifted by the lifting means.

[0015] Based on the above, confusion in processing can be prevented.

[0016] The above-mentioned product sales data processing device may further comprise a retention means for retaining information processed by the prohibition means before the prohibition is lifted by the lifting means.

[0017] According to the above, settlement can be carried out smoothly.

[0018] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer of a product sales data processing device used for selling products to function as a clerk registration means for allowing a clerk to register products, a customer registration means for allowing a customer to register products, a settlement means for performing settlement processing based on the registration contents of at least one of the clerk registration means and the customer registration means, a switching means for switching the usage status of the clerk registration means, and a prohibition means for prohibiting switching by the switching means when registration processing in the clerk registration means and customer registration means, or settlement start processing in the settlement means is executed. Effect of the Invention

[0019] As described above, unintentional switching of the operation mode can be prevented. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation of a POS terminal. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a POS terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a POS terminal. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of operation modes of the POS terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of operation modes of the POS terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transition of an operation mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transition of an operation mode. [Figure 9] 13 is a display example on the store clerk display unit and the customer display unit. [Figure 10] 13 is a display example on the store clerk display unit and the customer display unit. [Figure 11] 13 is a display example on the store clerk display unit and the customer display unit. [Figure 12] 13 is an example of a display on the customer side display unit. [Figure 13] 13 is a display example on the customer side display section and the store clerk side display section. [Figure 14] 13 is a display example on the customer side display section and the store clerk side display section. [Figure 15] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 16] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 17] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. [Figure 18] 13 is a display example on a store clerk's display unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] Fig. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS (Point Of Sales) system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes three POS terminals, a first POS terminal 20-1, a second POS terminal 20-2, and a third POS terminal 20-3, and a store controller (store computer, management device) 10, which are communicatively connected via a LAN 11. Hereinafter, the first POS terminal 20-1, the second POS terminal 20-2, and the third POS terminal 20-3 will be collectively referred to as the POS terminal 20 unless otherwise distinguished.

[0022] The POS system 1 can be introduced into various stores, but in the following description, an example in which the POS system 1 is introduced into a convenience store will be described.

[0023] Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the installation of a POS terminal. Figure 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the customer side. Figure 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in Figure 2(A), a counter is placed on the right side of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side.

[0024] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a POS terminal. Fig. 3(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side. Fig. 3(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the store clerk side. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20. In Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the same parts are given the same symbols.

[0025] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20 shown in Fig. 4 will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. The POS terminal 20 comprises 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.

[0026] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit, and controls the operation of the POS terminal 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 202 . The ROM 202 is a read-only memory, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 201, including programs.

[0027] 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 10) 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism that has an input port for banknotes and coins and an output port for banknotes and coins. It calculates the amount of money inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the input amount and the purchase amount, and dispenses the change from the output port.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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 devices (other POS terminals 20, the store controller 10).

[0037] (Overview of each operation mode) Next, the operation modes of the POS terminal 20 will be described. The POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes. For example, the POS terminal 20 has a normal mode, a full self-service mode, and a semi-self-service mode. 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 setting and maintenance work by store clerks and maintenance personnel, and a training mode for training new employees. The semi-self-service mode is an operation mode that is mainly used when transmitting and receiving data between a plurality of POS terminals 20. Here, an example of executing registration processing and settlement processing with one POS terminal will be described, and the normal mode and the full self-service mode will be described in detail below.

[0038] The registration process is a process that starts when the purchased item is registered for the first time and ends when the registration completion key is operated. The settlement process is a process that starts when the settlement start process is performed and ends when the dispensing of the change is completed. The settlement start process is the first process that starts the settlement process, and is, for example, a selection of a payment method. An example of the selection of a payment method is inserting coins into the change machine 209. By inserting coins into the change machine 209, payment by cash is selected. The selection of a payment method is not limited to payment by cash selected by depositing money into the change machine 209, but includes payment by cash and payment by various cards such as credit cards. A customer can select a preferred payment method from among these payment methods. These payment methods are selected individually, but multiple payment methods may be selected. For example, when the total amount of the purchased items is higher than the charge balance stored in the transportation card, the entire balance of the transportation card may be used for payment, and the remaining amount may be paid by cash or credit card. The settlement start process can be performed after the registration process is started, but can also be performed before the registration process is started. Specifically, by depositing cash before the registration process is started, the settlement start process is started before the registration process is started. For this reason, the settlement process including the settlement start process may be started after the registration process is started, or may be started before the registration process is started.

[0039] 5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining an outline of the operation modes of the POS terminal. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the normal mode. Fig. 5(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (product registration process, transaction process) and the actions of people (store clerks, customers) in the normal mode. Fig. 5(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of the operation of the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the full self-service mode. Fig. 6(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (product registration process, accounting process) and the actions of a person (customer) in the full self-service mode. Fig. 6(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of the operation of the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode.

[0040] In the following description, as a separate aspect from the classification of the three operating modes mentioned above (normal mode, full self-service mode, semi-self-service mode), the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the product registration process may be referred to as the registration mode, and the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process may be referred to as the accounting mode.

[0041] (Normal mode) As shown in Fig. 5(A), normal mode is an operation mode in which the clerk executes the registration process and the customer executes the payment process. That is, as shown in Fig. 5(B), in normal mode, the clerk is in registration mode and the customer is in payment mode. In other words, the POS terminal 20 operates in the registration and payment mode from the overall process from registration to payment.

[0042] 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). That is, the 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. 5(A)).

[0043] 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 by operating the card payment unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In other words, the 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. 5(A)).

[0044] That is, in the normal mode, as shown in Fig. 5(B), first, the clerk side scans the products using, for example, the clerk side scanner unit 212 (step S10: YES) and registers the products (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 using, for example, 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.

[0045] The customer may wait until the registration process is completed by the store clerk (until the total amount is confirmed), but may also insert coins into the change dispenser 209 before the registration process is completed, or may select a payment method, for example, payment by card settlement unit 208. In other words, the POS terminal 20 allows deposit of money as a settlement start process before the registration process is completed, for example, before the registration process or during the pedaling process (upper part of FIG. 5(A)).

[0046] After completing the registration of the purchased items, the store clerk may wait until the customer completes the payment (until the customer receives the change and receipt), or may register the purchased items of the next customer. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can register the purchased items of the next customer during the payment process (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In addition, the store clerk may be absent while the customer is paying (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). In other words, after completing the registration of the purchased items, the store clerk may finish serving the customer while the customer is paying.

[0047] Furthermore, when there is change, the 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 a sensor or the like recognizes that the customer has removed the change and the change note. The control of issuing a receipt after the customer has removed the change and the change note is also performed in other operation modes. As described above, in normal mode, there are cases where a store clerk is present in front of the customer who receives the change and cases where he is not. For example, when a store clerk is present, 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 recognized by a sensor).

[0048] (Full self mode) As shown in Fig. 6(A), the full self-service mode is an operation mode in which the customer side performs the registration process and the payment process. That is, as shown in Fig. 6(B), in the full self-service mode, the customer side is in both the registration mode and the payment mode. In other words, the POS terminal 20 operates in the registration and payment mode from the overall process from registration to payment.

[0049] 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 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. 6(A)).

[0050] 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 settlement unit 208 (lower part of FIG. 6(A)). In other words, the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation (inserting coins into the change machine 209, operating the card settlement unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 6(A)).

[0051] That is, in the full self-service mode, as shown in Fig. 6(B), the customer side scans the product, for example, by the customer side scanner unit 206 (step S20: YES), and registers the product (step S21). After pressing a registration completion key (for example, the END (receipt) button BT40 displayed on the customer side display unit 205 shown in Fig. 11(B)) (step S40: YES), the customer side settles the bill, for example, by the 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.

[0052] In the full self-service mode, as described above, 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. That is, even when the POS terminal 20 is operating in the full self-service mode, for example, the first mode switching button BT12 displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210 shown in FIG. 13(B) and the like can be pressed. In the full self-service mode, before registration starts, as shown in FIG. 13(B), the second mode switching button BT13 displays the words "Switch to face-to-face self-service". In the full self-service mode, when a customer is registering a purchased item in the full self-service mode, as shown in FIG. 14(B), the second mode switching button BT13 displays the words "Join registration", and when the second mode switching button BT13 is pressed, the store clerk side scanner unit 212 can register the purchased item. The state (operation mode) in which the registration process is being performed on both the store clerk side and the customer side is sometimes called the double scan mode.

[0053] In the full self-service mode, the settlement start process, such as depositing money into the change dispenser 209, cannot be performed before the product registration process is started, but the settlement start process may be performed before the product registration process is started. In this case, in the full self-service mode, all processes of the settlement start process, such as depositing money and selecting a payment method using various cards, may be performed, or only a part of the settlement start process, such as depositing money or selecting a payment method, may be performed. In the full self-service mode, if the settlement start process is to be able to select a payment method using various cards so that the settlement start process can be performed before the registration process, buttons corresponding to the various cards to be used for payment may be displayed on the registration start screen shown in FIG. 13(A), or a button for designating a screen for selecting a payment method may be displayed.

[0054] (Operation mode notification) The POS terminal 20 notifies the current operation mode. For example, the current operation mode may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210. Specifically, a screen having an operation mode display field may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210, and the current operation mode may be displayed in the operation mode display field on the screen. Also, a screen on which images (e.g., button-like images) corresponding to each operation mode are arranged may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210, and the image corresponding to the current operation mode may be displayed on the screen in a different display mode (e.g., a display mode that is more noticeable than the display modes of other images) from images that do not correspond to the current operation mode. The operation mode may also be displayed on the customer display unit 205 in a similar manner.

[0055] Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 may notify information according to the current operation mode. For example, a message according to the current operation mode may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. Specifically, when the current operation mode is the full self-service mode, for example, during standby, a message to the effect that the customer himself / herself should register the product (such as a message "We ask the customer to scan") may be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 (for example, a scrolling display in large letters, etc.).

[0056] (Operation mode transition) Next, a description will be given of the transition (switching) of the operation mode of the POS terminal 20. The operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is switched in accordance with an explicit mode transition operation (mode switching operation) by a store clerk. Specifically, the key operation unit 211 has a plurality of buttons, and the operation mode is switched in accordance with the operation of the mode switching button 211a (see FIG. 3(B)) located at the top and the rightmost end of the plurality of buttons.

[0057] In addition, since the mode switching button 211a is located at a corner of the key operation unit 211, it is possible to reduce operational errors when switching modes and to easily switch between operation modes. In other words, when the mode switching button 211a is located at a corner of the key operation unit 211, compared to when the mode switching button 211a is located near the center of the key operation unit 211, for example, the number of other buttons adjacent to the mode switching button 211a to be operated is smaller, so that operational errors such as hastily operating other buttons are less likely to occur, and the position of the mode switching button 211a to be operated can be instantly identified, allowing for stress-free mode switching operations.

[0058] Furthermore, since the mode switching button 211a is located at the corner of the upper right end (topmost and rightmost) of the key operation unit 211, it is easy for the store clerk to perform the mode switching operation not only when he is on the store clerk side but also when he is on the customer side. In other words, the store clerk on the customer side cannot usually see each button of the key operation unit 211, but the store clerk on the customer side can easily recognize the mode switching button 211a located at the upper right end of the key operation unit 211 by reaching out his hand from the customer side and feeling around (by touch), so the store clerk on the customer side can perform the mode switching operation without moving to the store clerk side. Also, since the mode switching button 211a is located at the topmost and rightmost (outermost) of the key operation unit 211, it is located close to the store clerk when he operates it from the customer side, so that the store clerk can easily operate it.

[0059] In this embodiment, the mode switching button 211a is placed in the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211, but the mode switching button 211a may be placed in a position other than the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211, for example, the lower right corner, as long as the position is recognizable by touch alone (a position that is relatively easy to recognize). Also, instead of or in addition to placing the mode switching button 211a in a position recognizable by touch alone (for example, the upper right corner), the mode switching button 211a may be formed so that it can be distinguished from other buttons even from the customer's side. For example, the size of mode switching button 211a may be made different from the size of the other buttons to the extent that it can be distinguished by touch alone, the shape of mode switching button 211a may be made different from the shape of the other buttons, or the height of mode switching button 211a may be made different from the height of the other buttons (for example, mode switching button 211a may be made to protrude more than the other buttons), or the feel of all or part of the surface (the surface that the hand touches) of mode switching button 211a may be made different from the feel of the other buttons (for example, only the surface of mode switching button 211a may be made rough or bumpy to the touch, or only the surface of mode switching button 211a may be provided with protrusions or depressions).

[0060] In this embodiment, taking into consideration the various advantages as described above, the mode switching button 211a is arranged on the key operation unit 211. However, instead of or in addition to arranging the mode switching button 211a on the key operation unit 211, a mode switching button (not shown) may be arranged on the screen displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210.

[0061] Next, the transition (switching) of the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 will be described. The operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is switched according to an explicit mode switching operation by a store clerk (for example, pressing the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 9(A), input on the operation mode setting screen, operation of the operation mode setting button, etc.). Note that, as a button (key) used for mode switching, instead of the first mode switching button BT12 shown in FIG. 9(A) or the second mode switching button BT13 shown in FIG. 13(B), a mode switching key (hard key) set in the key operation unit 211 may be used, or these may be used in combination. As shown in FIG. 9(A), the first mode switching button BT12 displayed in the normal mode displays the words "Switch to full self mode". Below, a transition example when the operation mode is switched by pressing the first mode switching button BT12 will be described.

[0062] 7 and 8 are diagrams for explaining an example of the transition of the operation mode. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of transition from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of transition from the full self-service mode to the normal mode. The transition from the normal mode to the full self-service mode and from the full self-service mode to the normal mode are performed, for example, by the operation of the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 by a store clerk or the like when no product is registered. In addition, when a condition such as the start of registration processing is met, the transition of the operation mode by the operation of the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 may be prohibited. Furthermore, in the full self-service mode, when a process such as registration processing on the customer side is not performed for a certain period of time, registration by the customer-side scanner unit 206 or the like may be prohibited (for example, the prohibition on changing the usage status of the customer-side scanner unit 206 during reception is lifted). These cases will be described below together.

[0063] (Transition from normal mode to full self mode) The flowchart of FIG. 7 starts constantly (at very short intervals, periodically) in the POS terminal 20 (normal mode). Because it is in the normal mode, the clerk scanner unit 212 is accepting, and the customer scanner unit 206 is not accepting. When the clerk scanner unit 212 is accepting, it is possible to register a product by pressing the clerk display unit 210. Similarly, when the clerk scanner unit 212 is not accepting, it is impossible to register a product by pressing the clerk display unit 210. Similarly, when the customer scanner unit 206 is accepting, it is possible to register a product by pressing the customer display unit 205, and when the customer scanner unit 206 is not accepting, it is impossible to register a product by pressing the customer display unit 205. Acceptance by the customer scanner unit 206 and the clerk scanner unit 212 refers to reading of purchased products, etc., and reading is possible during acceptance, and reading is impossible during non-acceptance. The reception by customer-side scanner unit 206 and clerk-side scanner unit 212 means the usage state of customer-side scanner unit 206 and clerk-side scanner unit 212, which means that they are available when they are receiving, and unavailable when they are not receiving. The unreadable state may be a state in which the functions of customer-side scanner unit 206 and clerk-side scanner unit 212 themselves have stopped, or a state in which customer-side scanner unit 206 and clerk-side scanner unit 212 themselves are functioning but the information read by customer-side scanner unit 206 and clerk-side scanner unit 212 is processed so that CPU 201, etc., does not recognize it.

[0064] 7 and 8, the scanning by the customer scanner unit 206 and the clerk scanner unit 212 may mean only the scanning by the customer scanner unit 206 and the clerk scanner unit 212, or may include other methods of registering a product. For example, the scanning by the customer scanner unit 206 may include an operation of a customer pressing an order button to register a product when an order button (preset key) for a product is displayed on the customer display unit 205. The scanning by the customer scanner unit 206 may include an operation of a clerk pressing an order button to register a product when an order button (preset key) for a product is displayed on the clerk display unit 210, or may include an operation of a clerk pressing a key corresponding to a product (e.g., a key corresponding to a sports newspaper) to register the product when the key operation unit 211 has the key. Also, when the customer-side scanner unit 206 is not accepting orders, the customer-side display unit 205 may not display the product order button (preset key), or the order button may be displayed but registration may not be performed even if the order button is pressed. Similarly, when the store clerk-side scanner unit 212 is not accepting orders, the store clerk-side display unit 210 may not display the product order button (preset key), or the order button may be displayed but registration may not be performed even if the order button is pressed. Also, registration may not be performed even if a key corresponding to a product on the key operation unit 211 is pressed.

[0065] Step S111: Determine whether or not a deposit has been made. A deposit is made by a customer inserting bills or coins into the change dispenser 209. If a deposit has been made, proceed to step S112, and if no deposit has been made, proceed to step S113. Step S112: A deposit process is performed. As part of the deposit process, the deposited amount is stored in the RAM 203, and the deposited amount is displayed on the customer display unit 205 and the store clerk display unit 210. The deposit process also initiates a settlement process, and the settlement process begins. After that, the process proceeds to step S113.

[0066] Step S113: Determine whether or not a mode switching button has been pressed. For example, determine whether or not the first mode switching button BT12 shown in FIG. 9(A) has been pressed by a store clerk or the like. If the first mode switching button BT12 has been pressed, proceed to step S114. If the first mode switching button BT12 has not been pressed, proceed to step S115. Step S114: Determine whether or not the registration of purchased items has started, or a deposit process has been performed, and the settlement has not yet been made. The registration of purchased items is performed, for example, by reading a barcode (item code, etc.) provided on the item by the store clerk scanner unit 212 or the customer scanner unit 206. Here, the customer scanner unit 206 is accepting, but the store clerk scanner unit 212 is not accepting. When the store clerk scanner unit 212 is not accepting, the registration process is performed by the customer scanner unit 206. If the registration of purchased items has started, or a deposit process has been performed, and the settlement has not yet been made, proceed to step S115. In step S114, if the first mode switching button BT12 is operated, a process of switching from the normal mode to the full self-service mode is performed, but after the registration process or the payment process, even if the first mode switching button BT12 is operated, the switch from the normal mode to the full self-service mode is prohibited, and switching of the clerk-side scanner unit 212 and the customer-side scanner unit 206 is prohibited. Therefore, if product registration has not started and there has been no payment process, or if the payment has already been settled, the process proceeds to step S119.

[0067] Step S115: Determine whether or not the product has been scanned by the clerk scanner unit 212. Whether or not the product has been scanned by the clerk scanner unit 212 is determined based on whether or not the clerk scanner unit 212 has scanned the barcode attached to the purchased product. If the purchased product has been scanned by the clerk scanner unit 212, proceed to step S116. If the purchased product has not been scanned by the clerk scanner unit 212, proceed to step S117. Step S116: The purchased item is registered in the RAM 203. Specifically, various information such as item information in the barcode scanned by the store clerk scanner unit 212 is stored in the RAM 203. After that, the process proceeds to step S117.

[0068] Step S117: Determine whether the accounting button (subtotal key) has been pressed. For example, determine whether the Finish (receipt) button BT40 shown in FIG. 11(B) has been pressed. If the accounting button has been pressed, proceed to step S118. If the accounting button has not been pressed, return to step S111. Step S118: The payment process is performed. After the payment process is completed, for example, a receipt is issued by the printing unit 213. Then, the flowchart in FIG. 7 ends. A receipt may be issued on which the products registered by the clerk and the products registered by the customer are printed in a manner that allows them to be distinguished from each other. For example, a mark such as an asterisk or star, or an underline may be added to either the product registered by the clerk or the customer. Also, for example, a receipt may be issued in which the printing area for the products registered by the customer and the printing area for the products registered by the clerk are separated. In other words, a receipt may be issued in which the products registered by the customer and the products registered by the clerk are printed in different areas.

[0069] Step S119: The operation mode is shifted from the normal mode to the full self mode (mode dedicated to registration), and then the process proceeds to step S120. Step S120: Start reception of the customer-side scanner unit. In the full self-service mode, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is set to be in reception mode, since the purchased goods are registered by the customer-side scanner unit 206. Then, the process proceeds to step S121. Step S121: Stop accepting orders from the store clerk scanner unit 212. In the full self-service mode, the store clerk scanner unit 212 is set to not accept orders, in order to register the purchased items using the store clerk scanner unit 212. Then, the flow chart in FIG. 7 ends.

[0070] In this way, in normal mode, transition to full self-service mode is permitted until the purchased item is registered or payment is made (after the payment is completed if the previous process from registration to payment has been performed), and the usage status of customer-side scanner unit 206 and store clerk-side scanner unit 212 can be switched. Also, after the purchased item is registered or payment is made, transition to full self-service mode is prohibited and switching of the usage status of customer-side scanner unit 206 and store clerk-side scanner unit 212 is prohibited until the payment is completed.

[0071] (Transition from Full Self Mode to Normal Mode) The flowchart in Fig. 8 starts constantly (periodically at very short intervals) in the POS terminal 20 (full self-service mode). Because it is in the full self-service mode, the clerk scanner unit 212 is not accepting transactions, and the customer scanner unit 206 is accepting transactions. In addition, the force quit button, which will be described later, is not accepting transactions.

[0072] Step S151: Determine whether or not there has been any operation from the customer side. An operation from the customer side is, for example, scanning by the customer side scanner unit 206, or operating various buttons displayed on the customer side display unit 205. If there has been any operation from the customer side, proceed to step S152. The last operation from the customer side (the last operation performed by the customer) becomes the timing start condition for starting timing by the clock timer. If there has been no operation from the customer side, proceed to step S154.

[0073] Step S152: Set the clock timer. The clock timer is a timer that measures the time during which various devices on the customer side are not operated. A time limit is set in the clock timer. The time limit is the time during which the operation mode is shifted to the face-to-face mode when various devices on the customer side are not operated in the full self-service mode, and can be set to any time, for example, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, etc. Also, it may be set to a time other than these times. Also, the time limit may be set arbitrarily by the store, etc. The clock timer measures the time from when the last operation on the customer side scanner unit 206 or the customer side display unit 205, etc. is accepted. Step S153: The force quit button shown in Fig. 14(B) and Fig. 15 is put into a non-accepting state. Here, if the force quit button was being accepted, the force quit button is changed to a non-accepting state, and if the force quit button was not being accepted, the state is maintained.

[0074] Step S154: Determine whether or not a mode switching button has been pressed. For example, determine whether or not the second mode switching button BT13 shown in FIG. 13(B) has been pressed by a store clerk or the like. If the second mode switching button BT13 has been pressed, proceed to step S155. If the second mode switching button BT13 has not been pressed, proceed to step S158. Step S155: Determine whether or not the registration of purchased items has started and payment has not yet been made. If the registration of purchased items has started and payment has not yet been made, proceed to step S156. Also, in step S155, if the second mode switching button BT13 is operated, a process of switching from the full self-service mode to the normal mode is performed. However, after the registration process, switching from the full self-service mode to the normal mode is prohibited even if the second mode switching button BT13 is operated. In this way, if the registration process has been performed, switching of the usage state of the clerk-side scanner unit 212 and the customer-side scanner unit 206 is prohibited. Therefore, if the registration of items has not started, proceed to step 167.

[0075] Step S156: Determine whether the clerk scanner unit 212 is accepting a request. The clerk scanner unit 212 is not accepting a request at the start of the flowchart shown in Figure 8, but may be switched to accepting a request in a later process. If the clerk scanner unit 212 is not accepting a request, proceed to step S157. If the clerk scanner unit 212 is accepting a request, proceed to step S158. Step S157: Start accepting with the clerk scanner unit 212. Specifically, switch the clerk scanner unit 212 from not accepting to accepting. By switching the clerk scanner unit 212 to accepting, the mode transitions to a double scan mode in which the purchased item can be registered by both the customer scanner unit 206 and the clerk scanner unit 212. In the normal mode, when the registration process starts, even if the second mode switching button BT13 is operated, in step S114 of FIG. 7, the customer scanner unit 206 is prohibited from switching to accepting, but in the full self mode, when the second mode switching button BT13 is operated after the registration starts, the prohibition of switching the clerk scanner unit 212 from not accepting to accepting is lifted, and the clerk scanner unit 212 starts accepting. Then, proceed to step S155.

[0076] Step S158: Determine whether or not the product has been scanned by the customer-side scanner unit 206. Whether or not the product has been scanned by the customer-side scanner unit 206 is determined by whether or not the barcode attached to the purchased product has been scanned by the customer-side scanner unit 206. If the purchased product has been scanned by the customer-side scanner unit 206, proceed to step S159. If the purchased product has not been scanned by the customer-side scanner unit 206, proceed to step S161. Step S159: Determine whether the store clerk scanner unit 212 is accepting a request. If the store clerk scanner unit 212 is accepting a request, proceed to step S160. If the store clerk scanner unit 212 is not accepting a request, proceed to step S163.

[0077] Step S160: Determine whether or not the merchandise has been scanned by the store clerk scanner unit 212. If the purchased merchandise has been scanned by the store clerk scanner unit 212, proceed to step S161. If the purchased merchandise has not been scanned by the store clerk scanner unit 212, proceed to step S163.

[0078] Step S161: The purchased item is registered in the RAM 203. Specifically, various information such as item information in a barcode scanned by the store clerk scanner unit 212 or the customer scanner unit 206 is stored in the RAM 203. Step S162: Determine whether the checkout button has been pressed. For example, determine whether the checkout button (the END (receipt) button BT40 shown in FIG. 14(A)) has been pressed. If the checkout button has been pressed, proceed to step S170. If the checkout button has not been pressed, return to step S151.

[0079] Step S163: Determine whether the time limit has elapsed. Specifically, determine whether the time set in the clock timer in step S152 has elapsed. If the time limit has elapsed, proceed to step S164. If the time limit has not elapsed, proceed to step S162. Step S164: Start accepting the forced termination button. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, a forced termination button BT14 for forcibly terminating the full self-service mode and transitioning to the normal mode and a clerk participation button BT15 for switching from the full self-service mode to the double scan mode are displayed below the clerk-side display unit 210 in the full self-service mode. The forced termination button BT14 and the clerk participation button BT15 are displayed vertically at the lower center position of the clerk-side display unit 210. When the forced termination button BT14 starts to be accepted, the full self-service mode is forcibly terminated and transitioned to the normal mode by the clerk or the like pressing and operating the forced termination button BT14. Note that before the forced termination button is accepted, the forced termination button BT14 is displayed in a grayed-out state as shown in FIG. 14(B). At this time, instead of displaying the forced termination button BT14 in a grayed-out state, the forced termination button BT14 may not be displayed. When the forced termination button BT14 is pressed, the registration is forcibly terminated and registration by operating the customer-side scanner unit 206 is no longer possible. Therefore, by starting to accept the forced termination button, the customer-side scanner unit 206 is released from being switched from accepting to not accepting. Step S165: It is determined whether or not the forced termination button has been pressed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the forced termination button BT14 shown in Fig. 15 has been pressed and operated by a store clerk or the like. If the forced termination button has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S166. If the forced termination button has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S162. Step S166: End full self mode. After ending full self mode, transition to normal mode occurs. When performing forced termination, registration information and the like for registered but unpaid products is discarded (deleted). Then, the flowchart in FIG. 8 ends. After forced termination, the full self mode may remain, or a transition to an operation mode other than normal mode may occur, or the operation mode to transition to may be specified. Furthermore, registration information does not have to be discarded after forced termination.

[0080] Step S167: The operation mode is shifted from the full self mode (registration-only mode) to the normal mode. Step S168: Start reception of the store clerk scanner unit 212. In the normal mode, the store clerk scanner unit 212 is set to be in reception mode since the purchased goods are registered by the store clerk scanner unit 212. Step S169: Stop accepting orders from the customer-side scanner unit 206. In the normal mode, the customer-side scanner unit 206, which was accepting orders, is switched to not accepting orders, in order to register the purchased items using the store clerk-side scanner unit 212. Then, the flow chart in FIG. 8 ends. Step S170: The payment process is carried out. After the payment process is completed, for example, a receipt is printed by the printing unit 213. Then, the flow chart of FIG. 8 ends.

[0081] In this way, in the full self-service mode, a transition to the normal mode is permitted until the purchased goods are registered or a payment is made, and the usage status of the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the store clerk-side scanner unit 212 can be switched. After the purchased goods are registered or a payment is made, a transition to the full self-service mode is prohibited until the settlement is completed, but instead the double scan mode is switched. Therefore, switching of the usage status of the customer-side scanner unit 206 and the store clerk-side scanner unit 212 is prohibited from the time when the purchased goods are registered or a payment is made until the settlement is completed, but the prohibition is lifted for the store clerk-side scanner unit 212.

[0082] Furthermore, when the full self-service mode is started, the customer registers products, and therefore switching of the usage state of customer-side scanner unit 206 is prohibited, but if a long period of time passes without any operation on the customer's side, it is possible that the customer will have stopped registration using customer-side scanner unit 206 before completing the settlement. For this reason, when the time limit has passed without any operation on the customer's side, the prohibition on switching of the usage state of customer-side scanner unit 206 is lifted, and the mode is switched from full self-service mode to normal mode, and customer-side scanner unit 206 is made unacceptable.

[0083] In the full self-service mode, if the deposit process is possible before the registration process starts as in the normal mode, instead of determining in step S152 that the full self-service mode should be switched to the normal mode when the second mode switching button BT13 is pressed not after the start of registration and before settlement, the full self-service mode may be switched to the normal mode when the second mode switching button BT13 is pressed not after the start of registration or after deposit and before settlement. Also, in the steps shown in Figures 7 and 8, an example has been described in which the settlement start process is a deposit into the change machine 209, but the same process as when a deposit is made into the change machine 209 may be performed when another settlement start process is performed.

[0084] (Displayed in normal mode) Next, the display in the normal mode will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 12. Figs. 9 to 12 are display examples of the clerk-side display unit 210 and the customer-side display unit 205 in the normal mode. Fig. 9(A) is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20, and is a display example of a registration start screen before a product is purchased. In the screen shown in Fig. 9(A), a subtotal button BT10, a pause button BT11, and a first mode switching button BT12 are displayed in the lower right of the screen. The subtotal button BT10 is a button (registration completion key) for instructing the end of product registration. The clerk performs an operation of pressing (touching) the subtotal button BT10 after product registration is completed. The pause button BT11 is a button for pausing the POS terminal 20. The clerk operates the pause button BT11 when leaving the POS terminal 20 (for example, when going to look for a product, when not using the POS terminal 20 for a while, etc.). The first mode switching button BT12 is a button for switching modes. When switching modes, the store clerk operates the first mode switching button BT12. The words "Switch to full self mode" are displayed on the first mode switching button BT12. The first mode switching button BT12 is displayed in a grayed-out state when mode switching is prohibited and operation of the button is not valid. Instead of displaying the button in a grayed-out state, the button may not be displayed at all. Also, since it is unlikely that the subtotal button BT10 will be operated until products are registered, the subtotal button BT10 does not need to be displayed on the registration start screen. In this case, for example, the subtotal button BT10 may be displayed when products are registered at the beginning of a transaction.

[0085] FIG. 9(B) is an example of a screen displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 before a product is purchased. In the screen shown in FIG. 9(B), a store clerk call button BT33 is displayed on the lower left side, and display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 are displayed on the right side. The store clerk call button BT33 is a button for calling a store clerk. A customer operates the store clerk call button BT33 when calling a store clerk (for example, when the support of a store clerk is required). The display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 are buttons for switching the display language between English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively. The display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 display the flag of each country and characters indicating the language in each language.

[0086] The message display section at the bottom of the screen displays the message "You can insert money anytime," and in the center of the screen is an image simulating the state of inserting money into the change machine 209. When money is inserted into the change machine 209, the customer side display section 205 displays the screen shown in Fig. 10(B), except that information about registered products and the number and amount of registered products associated with product registration are not displayed.

[0087] FIG. 10(A) is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20, and is a display example during the registration of a product. Specifically, FIG. 10(A) is a screen showing the display contents of the registration screen when a first product (canned beer) and a second product (asparagus) are registered. In the screen shown in FIG. 10(A), the product name of the currently registered product (asparagus) is displayed in the upper left of the screen, and the product names of the registered products (canned beer, asparagus) are displayed below it along with their respective prices. In addition, the points and total price of the registered products are displayed in the upper right of the screen. When product registration is started, switching of the operation mode is prohibited, so the first mode switching button BT12 is displayed in a grayed-out state. Note that the dashed line of the first mode switching button BT12 indicates that the button (first mode switching button BT12) is displayed in a display mode (here, grayed-out) that indicates that the operation of the button is not valid. In addition, instead of displaying the button in a grayed-out state, no display may be performed.

[0088] FIG. 10(B) is a display example of a screen displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20, which is a display example during the registration of a product, and is a screen displayed on the customer display unit 205 when the image shown in FIG. 10(A) is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210. In the screen shown in FIG. 10(B), the product names of registered products (canned beer, asparagus) are displayed at the top, and the product name of the currently registered product (asparagus) is displayed on the left below, along with the number of registered products and the amount of money. In addition, the number of registered products and the total amount, as well as the deposited amount are displayed below. The deposited amount is the amount of money that has been inserted from the change machine 209. In addition, in the screen shown in FIG. 10(B), the store clerk call button BT33 is displayed on the right, and the display language switching buttons BT35 to B37 are displayed on the lower side. The functions of the store clerk call button BT33 and the display language switching buttons BT35 to B37 are the same as those of the buttons shown in FIG. 9(B).

[0089] Fig. 11(A) is an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20, and is an example of the display while settlement is being carried out. Specifically, Fig. 10(A) is a screen in which the total amount is displayed as "Total" and the amount deposited in the change machine 209 is displayed as "Amount deposited in change machine" on top of the screen in which the product was last registered when the registration screen is displayed. In the example shown in Fig. 11(A), "383 yen" is displayed as the total amount, and "1,000 yen" is displayed as the amount deposited in the change machine.

[0090] In addition, a deposit cancellation button BT18 is provided to the lower right of the amount of money deposited in the change machine. The deposit cancellation button BT18 is a button for canceling the deposit to the change machine 209. A store clerk who receives a request from a customer to cancel the deposit cancels the deposit by pressing the deposit cancellation button BT18. When the deposit is canceled, the change machine 209 refunds the customer money equivalent to the amount of the deposit. The refunded money may be the same money inserted by the customer, or may be money of the same amount as the money inserted by the customer. The deposit cancellation button BT18 is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 and is not displayed on the customer display unit 205. For this reason, when a customer cannot cancel the deposit and wants to return the deposited money, the customer will ask the store clerk to do so. The deposit cancellation button BT18 may be displayed not only on the store clerk display unit 210 but also on the customer display unit 205, or may be displayed only on the customer display unit 205.

[0091] When the screen shown in Fig. 11(A) is displayed, switching of the operation mode (switching from normal mode to full self mode) is prohibited, so the first mode switching button BT12 shown in Fig. 9(A) is not displayed. In contrast, a grayed-out first mode switching button BT12 may be displayed.

[0092] FIG. 11(B) is an example of a settlement screen displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20. Specifically, the screen shown in FIG. 11(B) displays a message saying "If you wish, press the finish button," along with the payment amount (here, "383 yen"), the deposit amount (here, "1,000 yen"), and the change (here, "617 yen"). The payment amount is the total price of the registered products. The deposit amount is the total amount inserted by the customer, etc. into the change machine 209. The change is the amount obtained by subtracting the payment amount from the deposit amount. The Finish (Receipt) button BT40 is displayed below the column displaying the change. The Finish (Receipt) button BT40 is displayed when the deposit amount is equal to or greater than the payment amount. When the Finish (Receipt) button BT40 is pressed, the deposited amount and the payment amount are confirmed, the payment is executed, and the change (here, "617 yen") is dispensed from the change dispenser 209.

[0093] FIG. 12(A) is a settlement screen (change screen) displayed when change is dispensed. For example, when the end (receipt) button BT40 is operated, the POS terminal 20 displays the change screen as shown in FIG. 12(A). By displaying the change screen shown in FIG. 12(A), the customer is prompted to remove the change. FIG. 12(B) is a settlement screen (receipt screen) displayed when the change has been removed. For example, when the change has been removed from the outlet of the change dispenser 209, the POS terminal 20 displays a receipt screen as shown in FIG. 12(B), and the printing unit 213 issues a receipt or the like. The POS terminal 20 may have a sensor such as a photosensor installed near the outlet, and determine that the change has been removed when the sensor recognizes an object (presumably the customer's hand).

[0094] (Displayed in Full Self Mode) Next, the display in the full self-service mode will be described with reference to Figs. 13 to 15. Figs. 13 and 14 are display examples of the customer display unit 205 and the store clerk display unit 210 in the full self-service mode, and Fig. 15 is a display example of the store clerk display unit 210 in the full self-service mode. Fig. 13(A) is a display example of a registration start screen displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 before product registration begins. In the screen shown in Fig. 13(A), a registration start button BT30 is displayed on the right side of the screen, and display language switch buttons BT35 to BT37 are displayed on the lower left of the screen. The registration start button BT30 is a button for instructing the start of product registration. A customer operates the registration start button BT30 before starting product registration.

[0095] FIG. 13(B) is a display example of a registration start screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20 before product registration starts. In the screen shown in FIG. 13(B), in addition to the screen shown in FIG. 13(A), a second mode switching button BT13 is displayed. In the screen shown in FIG. 13(B), the registration start button BT30 and the display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 are displayed, but these buttons are inoperable. Inoperable refers to a case where the button does not respond when pressed, or a case where the button responds when pressed but does not perform a predetermined function. For example, when the registration start button BT30 displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 is pressed, the registration start button BT30 does not respond, or responds but does not start product registration.

[0096] The second mode switching button BT13 displays the words "Switch to face-to-face self-service." The second mode switching button BT13 has a function for switching the operation mode, similar to the first mode switching button BT12 displayed in FIG. 9(A) and the like. When a store clerk presses the second mode switching button BT13 before product registration starts, the operation mode transitions from the full self-service mode to the normal mode. Note that when mode switching is prohibited and the operation of the button is not valid, the second mode switching button BT13 is not displayed. At this time, the second mode switching button BT13 may be displayed in a grayed-out color.

[0097] Fig. 14(A) is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the customer side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20 before product registration is started. Specifically, Fig. 14(A) shows the display contents of the registration screen when the second product (daifuku mochi) is registered. Note that when the registration start button BT30 is operated on the registration start screen shown in Fig. 13(A), a registration screen on which no product has been registered yet (initial registration screen) is displayed, but for ease of explanation, Fig. 14(A) shows the registration screen after a product has already been registered.

[0098] As shown in Fig. 14(A), the message "Please register the product" is displayed at the top left of the screen, and below that is the message "Please hold the product's barcode close to the scanner to register it." Further below that is the message "If there is no barcode, please select an item from below," and below that is the "Vegetables" button BT38.

[0099] An END (receipt) button BT40 is displayed at the bottom right of the screen, and to the left of that is the CALL FOR SALE button BT33. The END (receipt) button BT40 is a button for instructing the end of product registration. After product registration is completed, the customer operates the END (receipt) button BT40. As described above, the CALL FOR SALE button BT33 is a button for calling a store clerk.

[0100] Also, the display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 are displayed at the bottom left of the screen. Also, the "Vegetable" button BT38 is a button for displaying each preset key for vegetables. By pressing the "Vegetable" button BT38, preset keys corresponding to vegetable products (for example, carrots, Chinese cabbage, cabbage, onions, etc.) are displayed.

[0101] FIG. 14(B) is a display example of a registration screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20 after product registration has started. In the screen shown in FIG. 14(B), in addition to the screen shown in FIG. 14(A), the second mode switching button BT13 is displayed. The registration start button BT30 and the display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 displayed on this screen are inoperable, similar to the registration start button BT30 and the display language switching buttons BT35 to BT37 shown in FIG. 13(B). In addition, when the store clerk presses the second mode switching button BT13 after product registration has started, the full self-service mode is switched to the double scan mode. Therefore, the second mode switching button BT13 displays the words "Participate in registration". In other words, this means that the store clerk will participate in the registration while the customer is registering the product in the full self-service mode. In addition, the second mode switching button BT13 displays "Switch to face-to-face self-service" to switch from the full self-service mode to the normal mode before registration or settlement starts, and displays "Participate in registration" to switch from the full self-service mode to the double scan mode after registration or settlement starts. In contrast, a mode switching button for switching from the full self-service mode to the normal mode and a mode switching button for switching from the full self-service mode to the double scan mode may be provided separately. In this case, these mode switching buttons are placed in different positions on the store clerk side display unit 210. In addition, when these mode switching buttons are not being accepted, they may be displayed in a grayed-out state or may not be displayed at all.

[0102] The screen shown in Fig. 14(B) is an example of a display before the acceptance of the force quit button has started. Therefore, since the acceptance of the force quit button has not started, the force quit button BT14 is displayed in a grayed-out state. At this time, the force quit button BT14 may not be displayed.

[0103] Fig. 15 is an example of a screen displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20, after a customer has started registering a product and before the forced termination button is accepted. In the screen shown in Fig. 15, the forced termination button BT14, which was displayed in a grayed-out state in Fig. 14(B), is displayed and can be pressed. By pressing the forced termination button BT14 while it is displayed, the full self mode is forcibly terminated and the operation mode transitions to the normal mode.

[0104] (Displayed in double scan mode) When the full self-service mode is switched to the double scan mode, the screen displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 is the same as the screen displayed in the full self-service mode, but the registered products include not only the products registered by the customer using the customer-side scanner unit 206, but also the products registered by the store clerk using the store clerk scanner unit 212. At this time, the products registered using the store clerk scanner unit 212 are displayed in a different display mode from the products registered using the customer-side scanner unit 206. A different display mode is, for example, a change in font or a different background color.

[0105] Also, the clerk-side display unit 210 has a screen common to that displayed in normal mode, but the products registered include products registered by the clerk using the clerk-side scanner unit 212 as well as products registered by the customer using the customer-side scanner unit 206. At the time of payment, both the customer-side display unit 205 and the clerk-side display unit 210 have a screen common to that displayed in normal mode. At this time, the products registered using the customer-side scanner unit 206 are displayed in a different display mode from the products registered using the clerk-side scanner unit 212.

[0106] When the END (receipt) button BT40 is pressed, a change screen as shown in FIG. 12(A) is displayed. By displaying the change screen as shown in FIG. 12(A), the customer is prompted to remove the change. FIG. 12(B) is a settlement screen (receipt screen) that is displayed when the change has been removed. For example, when the change has been removed from the outlet of the change dispenser 209, the POS terminal 20 displays a receipt screen as shown in FIG. 12(B). The POS terminal 20 may be provided with a sensor such as a photosensor near the outlet, and may determine that the change has been removed when the sensor recognizes an object (presumably a customer's hand).

[0107] For example, in normal mode or full self-service mode, once registration of purchased items has begun, it is difficult to imagine a situation in which the mode would be switched to full self-service mode or normal mode. In such a situation, it is highly likely that switching the operation mode is not an intentional operation but an erroneous operation. In this regard, according to the above-mentioned POS terminal 20, once registration of purchased items has begun, mode switching is prohibited, specifically, switching from normal mode to full self-service mode and switching from full self-service mode to normal mode is prohibited. This makes it possible to prevent unintentional switching of the operation mode.

[0108] In addition, for example, if the operating mode is switched between the normal mode and the full self-service mode after the registration of purchased items has started, it may be necessary to register the purchased items again from the beginning. In this case, the number of times purchased items are registered increases, the operation of the cash register decreases, and the payment of purchased items takes time, which may cause customers to wait.

[0109] In this regard, in the above-mentioned POS terminal 20, after the registration of purchased items has started, mode switching is prohibited, so that switching of the usage state of the store clerk scanner unit 212 (switching between accepting and not accepting) is prohibited. This makes it difficult to re-register purchased items, and allows for smooth payment of items. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the operation of the cash register, and prevent customers from having to wait.

[0110] In the case of the full self-service mode, if a customer is not accustomed to registering products and takes longer to register products than other customers, even if multiple POS terminals 20 are provided, the time required for the process from registration to payment at the POS terminal 20 becomes long, and there is a concern that the operation of the POS system 1 as a whole will decrease. In this regard, in the above-mentioned POS terminal 20, when a customer is registering in the full self-service mode, the prohibition on switching the operation mode and the prohibition on switching the usage state of the clerk-side scanner unit 212 are lifted, so that by operating the second mode switching button BT13, the operation mode can be switched from the full self-service mode to the double scan mode, and the clerk-side scanner unit 212 can be switched from not accepting to accepting, and the clerk-side scanner unit 212 can start accepting. Therefore, the registration time at the POS terminal 20 can be shortened, and the time required from registration to payment can be made equal to or longer than that of other POS terminals 20. Therefore, the decrease in the operation of the cash register can be suppressed, and customers can be prevented from waiting.

[0111] In addition, when no operation is performed on the customer side in the POS terminal 20 during the full self-service mode, it is assumed that there is no customer near the POS terminal 20. A possible reason for no customer near the POS terminal 20 is that the customer interrupted (stopped) the registration of the product midway and left it as it is. When there is no customer near the POS terminal 20, the POS terminal 20 cannot be used during the full self-service mode, which causes a decrease in operation of the POS terminal 20. In this regard, when a predetermined time limit has elapsed since the POS terminal 20 accepted the last operation of the customer, such as scanning on the customer side scanner unit 206 or operation on the customer side display unit 205 during the full self-service mode, in other words, when no operation on the customer side has been performed beyond the time limit, the POS terminal 20 is forced to terminate and returns to the full self-service mode by operating the forced termination button BT14 displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210. Therefore, even if a customer registers a product on the POS terminal 20 during the full self-service mode and then interrupts and leaves the product registration midway, the POS terminal 20 can be made available to another customer, thereby suppressing a decrease in operation of the POS terminal 20.

[0112] In addition, as a situation where there is no customer in the vicinity of the POS terminal 20, a customer who has started to register may remember a product that he / she forgot to buy and pick it up from the sales floor. In this case, the customer has stopped registering the product, but has the intention to resume it. In this case, if the POS terminal 20 is forcibly terminated, there is a possibility that the customer will have to go to the trouble of re-registering the same product. In this regard, since the POS terminal 20 sets a time limit before forcibly terminating, even if there is no customer in the vicinity of the POS terminal 20, the POS terminal 20 is not immediately forcibly terminated, so that the trouble of re-registering the product can be avoided. Assuming that a customer who has started to register may remember a product that he / she forgot to buy and pick it up from the sales floor, it is preferable to set the time limit to, for example, about 5 minutes. Alternatively, the time limit may be set based on the size of the sales floor, past information, etc. Furthermore, the time limit may be set based on information such as the date (day of the week).

[0113] Furthermore, the forced termination of the POS terminal 20 is performed based on the operation of pressing the forced termination button BT14 displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210. This prevents customers from forcibly terminating the registration, thereby avoiding trouble between customers. Also, when the store clerk knows the circumstances under which the customer will leave the POS terminal 20, the forced termination will not be performed even if the time limit has been significantly exceeded, so that the discomfort felt by the customer who has started to register due to the forced termination can be reduced.

[0114] Furthermore, when the POS terminal 20 is forcibly terminated, the product registration information registered in the customer side display unit 205 or the customer side scanner unit 206 is discarded. Therefore, for example, when the forced termination occurs because the customer leaves the POS terminal 20, the burden on the settlement process can be reduced. The registration information may be retained instead of being discarded.

[0115] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the device configuration, data configuration, processing flow, display and output modes, and the like can be changed or modified as appropriate.

[0116] (About error display) In the above-mentioned POS terminal 20, when the change of the operation mode is prohibited, for example, when the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 is operated after the start of registration and before settlement in the normal mode or the full self-service mode, the operation mode continues as it is without changing to the full self-service mode or the normal mode. In this case, even if the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 is operated, no display based on the operation of the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 or the customer display unit 205, but an error display based on the operation of the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 may be displayed. By displaying such an error, it is possible to make it easier for the store clerk to recognize the prohibition of switching of the operation mode.

[0117] For example, when the operation mode is the normal mode, if the first mode switching button BT12 is operated after the start of registration but before settlement, a normal mode error screen may be displayed as a display based on the operation of the first mode switching button BT12, as shown in FIG. 16(A). The normal mode error screen is a screen in which a normal mode error display GA50 is displayed on the screen displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210 in the normal mode. The normal mode error display GA50 displays a message saying "Error: Product registration (deposit) in progress. Switch to full self-service and leave product registration to us?", as well as an accept button BT51 with the words "Leave it to us" and a reject button BT52 with the words "No" written on it.

[0118] When the store clerk presses the accept button BT51, the operation mode is changed from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. When the operation mode is changed to the full self-service mode, the customer display unit 205 displays the registration screen shown in FIG. 14(A). Also, the store clerk display unit 210 displays the mirror screen shown in FIG. 14(B). Therefore, after the start of registration and before settlement, in principle, the change from the normal mode to the full self-service mode is prohibited. However, when there is a request for changing the operation mode (pressing the accept button BT51) by the store clerk, the change from the normal mode to the full self-service mode is possible. When changing from the normal mode to the full self-service mode, the store clerk may have performed product registration processing during the normal mode. In this case, the information of the registration processing is carried over as it is in the full self-service mode. Therefore, the duplication of the registration processing can be suppressed, and the burden can be reduced, so that the settlement can be performed smoothly. Also, when the store clerk presses the reject button BT52, the operation mode remains in the normal mode, and the error display GA50 during the normal mode is erased.

[0119] Furthermore, when the operation mode is the full self-service mode, if the second mode switching button BT13 is operated after registration has started but before payment, a full self-service mode error screen may be displayed as a display based on the operation of the second mode switching button BT13, as shown in Fig. 16(B). The full self-service mode error screen is a screen in which a full self-service mode error display GA60 is displayed on the screen displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210 in the full self-service mode. The full self-service mode error display GA60 displays a message saying "Error Customer is currently using the machine. Switch to face-to-face self-service and take over product registration?", as well as displaying an accept button BT61 with the word "Take over" and a reject button BT62 with the word "No" written thereon.

[0120] Of these, when the clerk presses the accept button BT61, the operation mode is changed from the full self-service mode to the normal mode. When the operation mode is changed to the normal mode, the registration screen shown in FIG. 10(A) is displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210. Also, the screen shown in FIG. 10(B) is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. For this reason, after the start of registration and before settlement, in principle, the change from the full self-service mode to the normal mode is prohibited. However, when there is a request for changing the operation mode (pressing the accept button BT61) by the clerk or the like, the change from the full self-service mode to the normal mode is possible. When changing from the full self-service mode to the normal mode, the customer may have performed product registration processing while in the full self-service mode. In this case, the information of the registration processing is carried over as it is in the normal mode. For this reason, the duplication of the registration processing can be suppressed, and the burden can be reduced, so that the settlement can be made smoothly. Also, when the clerk presses the reject button BT62, the operation mode remains in the full self-service mode, and the full self-service mode error display GA60 is erased.

[0121] Also, when the operation mode is the full self-service mode and the force-termination button BT14 shown in FIG. 15 is operated before the acceptance of the force-termination button BT14 starts, a force-termination pre-error screen may be displayed as shown in FIG. 17 as a display based on the operation of the force-termination button BT14. The force-termination pre-error screen is a screen in which a force-termination pre-error display GA70 is displayed on the screen displayed on the store clerk side display unit 210 in the full self-service mode. The force-termination pre-error display GA70 displays a message saying "Error: Product registration (payment) in progress. Mode cannot be switched.", and a cancel button BT71 with the word "ERASE" written on it is displayed. By pressing this cancel button BT71, the operation mode remains in the full self-service mode and the force-termination pre-error display GA70 is erased.

[0122] In addition, when there is an operation mode change request (pressing the accept button BT51) by a store clerk or the like as shown in FIG. 16(A) and the store clerk is performing product registration processing when switching from the normal mode to the full self-service mode, the registration information registered in the normal mode may not be carried over to the full self-service mode. Similarly, when there is an operation mode request (pressing the accept button BT61) by a store clerk or the like as shown in FIG. 16(B) and the customer is performing product registration processing when switching from the full self-service mode to the normal mode, the registration information registered in the full self-service mode may not be carried over to the normal mode. In these cases, instead of not carrying over the registration information registered in the normal mode or the full self-service mode before switching, for example, this registration information may be discarded or reserved. When the registration information is discarded, confusion in the subsequent processing can be avoided. Furthermore, when the registration information is reserved, the subsequent payment processing can be performed smoothly.

[0123] For example, when the accept button BT61 shown in FIG. 16(B) is pressed, the operation mode transitions from full self-time mode to normal mode, and at this time the registration information processing selection screen shown in FIG. 18(A) is displayed on the clerk display unit 210. The registration information selection screen is a screen on which the registration information processing selection display GA80 is displayed on the screen displayed on the clerk display unit 210 in full self-time mode. The registration information processing selection display GA80 displays a message saying "Transitioning to face-to-face self-timer. There is registered data. Do you want to discard / hold?", as well as displaying a discard button BT81 with the word "Discard" written on it and a hold button BT82 with the word "Hold" written on it.

[0124] Of these, when the clerk presses the Discard button BT81, the registration information registered in the full self mode is discarded, and the registration start screen for normal mode shown in FIG. 9(A) is displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210. When the Hold button BT82 is pressed, the registration start screen for normal mode shown in FIG. 18(B) is displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210. On the registration start screen shown in FIG. 18(B), a first hold display tab TAB91 and a second hold display button BT92 related to the reserved registration information are displayed. By pressing the first hold display tab TAB91 and the second hold display button BT92, an image including the reserved registration information, amount information, etc. is displayed, and the transaction including the reserved registration information can be resumed.

[0125] When the registration information is reserved, only one of the first reservation display tab TAB91 and the second reservation display button BT92 may be displayed, or the reservation display button etc. may be displayed in another manner. Alternatively, the registration information (transaction information) that can be called up in the form of a reserved receipt may be printed as code information such as a barcode. Furthermore, when the transaction is resumed, it may be resumed in the mode in which it was reserved (full self mode in this case) or in the current mode (normal mode in this case). Alternatively, the operating mode at the time of resumption may be selectable.

[0126] (Conditions for starting timing) In the above example, the timing start condition for starting the timing by the clock timer is the last operation performed by the customer (the last operation performed by the customer), but the timing start condition may be another condition. For example, it may be when the customer leaves the POS terminal 20. In order to determine when a customer has left the POS terminal 20, for example, a human presence sensor may be provided that detects a person at the POS terminal 20 as a customer, and the customer may be determined to have left when the human presence sensor can no longer identify the person (customer).

[0127] (Registering customer images) Also, the POS terminal 20 may be provided with an imaging means (camera) for imaging the customer side, and an image (customer image) of the customer's face, etc. may be captured. For example, the customer image may be captured when a transaction is started, and stored in the RAM 203, etc. in association with a transaction code (automatic numbering) assigned to each transaction, or the face image data may be transmitted to the store controller 10 and stored in the store controller 10.

[0128] Furthermore, when the registration information is discarded or reserved, a customer image may be acquired. The customer image to be acquired may be, for example, a customer image stored in the RAM 203 of the POS terminal 20 or a customer image saved in the store controller 10, or a customer image number (code) linked to such a customer image. By acquiring a customer image, it is possible to easily identify the customer who registered the discarded or saved registration information.

[0129] Also, instead of the imaging means, or together with the imaging means, an identification means for identifying a customer may be provided. The identification means may be, for example, a recorder for recording the customer's voice, or a means for storing the customer's fingerprints or veins and using them to identify the customer. Alternatively, when a customer has a membership card or the like and has an ID number or the like assigned to each customer, the ID number or the like may be stored and used to identify the customer. With these identification means as well, the customer who registered the registration information that was discarded or saved can be easily identified.

[0130] (About operation modes) The POS terminal 20 switches from the normal mode to the full self-service mode or from the full self-service mode to the normal mode by pressing the first mode switching button BT12 or the second mode switching button BT13 until the purchased item is registered or the payment is made (after the payment is completed if the process from registration to payment has been performed previously), and switches from the full self-service mode to the double scan mode by pressing the second mode switching button BT13 in the full self-service mode, but the mode may be switched under other conditions. For example, the POS terminal 20 may switch the operation mode in accordance with an operation other than an explicit mode switching operation by a store clerk (for example, reading a store clerk code, etc.). For example, in the full self-service mode, after the purchased item is registered and before payment is made, the full self-service mode may be switched to the double scan mode by having the POS terminal 20 read the store clerk code instead of pressing the second mode switching button BT13 or in addition to pressing the second mode switching button BT13.

[0131] The POS terminal 20 may also switch operation modes based on a predetermined condition not dependent on the operation of a store clerk (conditions related to time such as elapsed time or a predetermined time (schedule), conditions related to sending and receiving information such as commands between other terminals, etc.) Specifically, for example, the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode may switch to the full self-service mode if it continues to be unused until a purchased item is registered or a payment is made (after the payment is completed in the case where the process from registration to payment has been performed previously).

[0132] When operating in the full self mode, a screen on which buttons corresponding to each clerk are arranged may be displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, and the clerk may be identified according to the button touched on the screen. Also, instead of pressing the second mode switching button BT13 displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, the operation mode may be changed by operating the key operation unit 211. Buttons corresponding to each clerk may be arranged on the key operation unit 211, and the clerk may be identified according to the button operated on the key operation unit 211.

[0133] (About Semi-Self Mode) The POS terminal 20 is used alone and registers and settles products at the POS terminal, but a plurality of POS terminals 20 may be connected by a LAN or the like to form a POS system in which registration and settlement are performed at different POS terminals 20. For example, a product registered at a first POS terminal 20-1 may be settled at a second POS terminal 20-2. The POS terminal 20 that settles the balance has a normal mode, a full self-service mode, a double scan mode, and a semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) in which only settlement is performed without registering products. A mode in which the POS terminal 20 is operated in the semi-self-service mode may be, for example, in two or more POS terminals 20, some of the POS terminals 20 are operated in the normal mode (registration only mode) and the other POS terminals 20 are operated in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode). Below, we will explain the semi-self-service mode, assuming that of the first POS terminal 20-1 and the second POS terminal 20-2 shown in Figure 1, the first POS terminal 20-1 in the registration-only mode is the registration-only first POS terminal 20-1, and the second POS terminal 20-2 in the semi-self-service mode is the accounting-only second POS terminal 20-2.

[0134] When the second POS terminal 20-2 is set in semi-self mode as the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting, the store clerk registers the items purchased by the customer on the first POS terminal 20-1 dedicated to registration. When the store clerk has completed the registration process, the customer moves to the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting, checks the total amount of the purchased items on the store clerk display unit 210, and inserts coins into the change dispenser 209 or operates the card settlement unit 208 to settle the payment. In other words, the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting executes the settlement process according to the customer's operation, etc.

[0135] When the registration process is completed at the first registration-only POS terminal 20-1, the customer moves from the first registration-only POS terminal 20-1 to the second accounting-only POS terminal 20-2, and the information required for the settlement process, such as the registration information, is provided from the first registration-only POS terminal 20-1 to the second accounting-only POS terminal 20-2 at the customer's destination. Methods for providing the registration information include sending the information required for the settlement process from the first registration-only POS terminal 20-1 to the second accounting-only POS terminal 20-2 (which may be sent via the store controller 30), and issuing a medium (a medium on which a barcode or the like for acquiring the information required for the settlement process is printed) at the first registration-only POS terminal 20-1.

[0136] If there are two or more second POS terminals 20-2 dedicated to accounting, the first POS terminal 20-1 dedicated to registration may specify the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting to execute the settlement process. If the first POS terminal 20-1 dedicated to registration issues a medium (a medium on which a barcode or the like for acquiring information necessary for the settlement process is printed), the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting reads the medium and executes the settlement process.

[0137] That is, in the semi-self mode, initially, the product is registered on the clerk side of the first POS terminal 20-1 dedicated to registration. For example, the product is registered by scanning with the clerk side scanner unit 212 of the first POS terminal 20-1 dedicated to registration. After pressing a subtotal key (for example, a subtotal key displayed on the clerk side display unit 210 or a subtotal key arranged on the key operation unit 211), if the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting is designated, the registration information is sent to the designated second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting, and the process is completed.

[0138] In the above example, the subtotal key is pressed when product registration is completed, and then (after pressing the subtotal key), the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting is designated. However, the second POS terminal 20-2 dedicated to accounting may be designated directly (without pressing the subtotal key) when product registration is completed. In the latter case, the subtotal key does not need to be displayed on the screen.

[0139] Next, after receiving the registration information, the second POS terminal 20-2 designated for settlement by the first POS terminal 20-1 for registration settles the bill at the customer's side, for example, by the change dispenser 209 (step S50), and the process is completed. After transmitting the registration information (or issuing the medium) at the first POS terminal 20-1 for registration, the store clerk can register the next customer's purchase. After transmitting the registration information, the store clerk may not be present.

[0140] In the above example, the second POS terminal 20-2 for accounting uses the registration information of the product registered in the first POS terminal 20-1 for registration to perform the settlement process. In other words, the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 for accounting is the registration information of the product registered when the first POS terminal 20-1 for registration is operating in the registration-only mode. However, if the registration information can be transmitted to the second POS terminal 20-2 for accounting (or if a bill (registered trademark; the same applies below) can be issued), the registration information used by the second POS terminal 20-2 for accounting does not necessarily have to be the registration information of the product registered when the first POS terminal 20-1 was operating in the registration-only mode.

[0141] Furthermore, when the second POS terminal 20-2 is operating in the accounting-only mode, it receives registration information (or reads the bill) and executes the settlement process. However, if the settlement process can be executed after receiving the registration information (or reading the bill), the operating mode when the second POS terminal 20-2 receives the registration information (or reads the bill) does not necessarily have to be the accounting-only mode.

[0142] As an example, the second POS terminal 20-2 may receive registration information from another terminal (e.g., the first POS terminal 20-1) when operating in the full self-service mode, and execute a payment 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 first POS terminal 20-1) when operating in the full self-service mode, and execute a payment process using the registration information obtained from the receipt read from the other terminal.

[0143] In this case, 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 bill issued by the other terminal (it processes the registration information based on the bill issued by the other terminal as the settlement process in the accounting-only mode).

[0144] 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). 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 a 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). In these cases, data may be sent and received between multiple POS terminals 20, and registration and settlement processes, etc. may be performed between the multiple POS terminals.

[0145] Furthermore, after receiving a transition instruction from another POS terminal 20, a POS terminal 20 operating in a normal mode or the like transitions to a semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) if the POS terminal 20 is currently processing, but may also forcibly (immediately) transition to the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) after receiving a transition instruction. For example, if a transition instruction is received while a store clerk is performing a registration process on the store clerk's side, the mode may immediately transition from the normal mode to the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode), while the ongoing registration process may be allowed to continue until it is completed.

[0146] Also, the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode may be made to function as a semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode). That is, the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) transmits registration information to the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) and causes the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) to execute the settlement process, but the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) may transmit registration information to the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode and causes the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode to execute the settlement process. Note that, when a customer is not operating the POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode, the POS terminal 20 operating in the semi-self-service mode (registration only mode) may be made to transmit registration information. It may be possible to prevent the registration information from being transmitted when a customer is operating, or to transmit the registration information so that the settlement is immediately performed after the customer finishes operating even if the customer is operating.

[0147] In addition, in relation to the transmission of registration information, a send button may be displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20 that is the sender of the registration information. On the store clerk display unit 210, send buttons for all other POS terminals on the LAN 11 may be displayed in a manner that allows each POS terminal to be identified (for example, displaying with terminal numbers such as "register 1" and "register 2"), or send buttons for POS terminals that can be destinations (POS terminals 20 operating in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode) and POS terminals 20 operating in full-self-service mode) may be displayed in a manner that allows each POS terminal to be identified. One or more POS terminals 20 that are permitted as destinations for sending registration information from the POS terminal 20 may be determined in advance (i.e., the coupling of the registration side and the settlement side may be determined in advance), and the send buttons may be displayed based on this.

[0148] Additionally, buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently capable of transmitting registration information and buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently unable to transmit registration information may be displayed in different display modes. For example, buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently capable of transmitting registration information may be displayed in a normal display mode, and buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently unable to transmit registration information may be displayed in a special display mode (e.g., grayed down). Buttons corresponding to POS terminals 20 currently unable to transmit registration information may be made inoperable or prohibited from being operated (e.g., touch may not be enabled).

[0149] Also, the status (e.g., waiting, in use, near end, near full, offline, etc.) of each POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be transmitted may be notified. For example, the status of each POS terminal 20 may be shared (e.g., transmission and reception of information indicating the status, centralized management in the store controller 10 or a representative POS terminal 20, etc.) in the LAN 11, and information indicating the status of each POS terminal 20 (e.g., badge-like images indicating "waiting", "in use", "near end", etc.) may be displayed on the above-mentioned button (or associated with the button). Note that in the case of a POS terminal 20 operating in the full self-service mode, the terminal is in waiting state when the customer is not operating it, and when the customer starts registration, it changes from waiting to in use, and when the settlement is completed, it changes from in use to waiting again. The in-use state may be divided into "registering" and "settlement" before and after the operation of the registration completion key (subtotal key).

[0150] Furthermore, although it has been explained that the POS terminal 20 changes operating modes in accordance with an explicit mode change operation by a store clerk, even in the case of an explicit mode change operation, the operation may be restricted (prohibited) depending on the operating mode before the change (current operating mode), the operating mode to which the change is to be made, the operating conditions, etc.

[0151] The operation mode of the POS terminal 20 may be scheduled according to the working status of the store clerk (working status, working schedule, and working schedule). However, depending on the operating mode before the transition (current operating mode), the operating mode after the transition, the operating status, etc., there may be cases where the operation mode is controlled according to the schedule and cases where the operation mode is not controlled according to the schedule.

[0152] In the above description, the POS terminal 20 displays the operation mode on the display unit (clerk display unit 210, customer display unit 205) to notify the operation mode, but the manner of notifying the operation mode is not limited to this. For example, the POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a patrol light (registered trademark) or a display board (or a patrol light or a display board is connected to the POS terminal 20), and the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 may be notified by the patrol light or the display board. The POS system 1 may be equipped with a patrol light or a display board (or a patrol light or a display board is connected to the LAN 11), and the operation mode of each POS terminal 20 in the store may be notified by the patrol light or the display board. By using the patrol light or the display board, the operation mode can be visually recognized even from a distance (apart from the clerk display unit 210).

[0153] (Display in double scan mode) In the above example, in double scan mode, when the registration completion key (end (receipt) button BT40) displayed on the customer side display unit 205 is pressed, the change screen (see FIG. 12(A)) is displayed. In other words, the product registration is completed by the customer side (registration completion key). However, the manner in which product registration is completed is not limited to this.

[0154] For example, a subtotal key may be displayed on the clerk display unit 210, and the change screen may be displayed when either the subtotal key displayed on the clerk display unit 210 or the registration completion key displayed on the customer display unit 205 is pressed. In other words, both the clerk and the customer may be able to perform the operation to complete the product registration.

[0155] Also, when both the subtotal key on the clerk's side and the registration completion key on the customer's side are pressed, the subtotal screen may be displayed. That is, when the subtotal key is pressed first on the clerk's side (when the subtotal key is pressed), the subtotal screen may be displayed when the registration completion key is pressed on the customer's side, and when the registration completion key is pressed first on the customer's side (when the registration completion key is pressed), the subtotal screen may be displayed when the subtotal key is pressed on the clerk's side.

[0156] In a mode in which a subtotal screen is displayed when both the clerk's subtotal key and the customer's registration completion key are pressed, when one of the subtotal key and the registration completion key is pressed, the fact that the other key has been pressed may be notified. For example, if the subtotal key is pressed first, the customer display unit 205 may display a message indicating that the subtotal key has been pressed (i.e., that the clerk has performed an operation to register products. For example, a message such as "The clerk has completed product registration"). On the other hand, if the registration completion key is pressed first, the clerk display unit 210 may display a message indicating that the registration completion key has been pressed (i.e., that the customer has performed an operation to register products. For example, a message such as "The customer has completed product registration").

[0157] Furthermore, when the subtotal key is pressed, instead of or in addition to displaying on the customer display unit 205 that the subtotal key has been pressed, the display mode of the registration completion key displayed on the customer display unit 205 may be highlighted (blinking, etc.) until the registration completion key is pressed. Similarly, when the registration completion key is pressed, instead of or in addition to displaying on the clerk display unit 210 that the registration completion key has been pressed, the display mode of the subtotal key displayed on the clerk display unit 210 may be highlighted (blinking, etc.) until the subtotal key is pressed.

[0158] In a mode in which a subtotal screen is displayed when both the clerk's subtotal key and the customer's registration completion key are pressed, pressing of the registration completion key may be prohibited (for example, grayed out or hidden) until the subtotal key is pressed, and pressing of the registration completion key may be permitted after the subtotal key is pressed (for example, displayed in a pressable display mode). Alternatively, pressing of the subtotal key may be prohibited until the registration completion key is pressed, and pressing of the subtotal key may be permitted after the registration completion key is pressed.

[0159] In a mode in which the subtotal screen is displayed when both the subtotal key on the clerk's side and the registration completion key on the customer's side are pressed, if the subtotal key on the clerk's side has been pressed but before the registration completion key on the customer's side has been pressed, the registration on the clerk's side may be in a provisionally completed state, and product registration may be permitted. In other words, when the subtotal key is pressed by the clerk, the other party (the customer) may be notified that the subtotal key has been pressed, but even after the subtotal key has been pressed, until the subtotal screen is displayed (before the registration completion key on the customer's side is pressed), the clerk may be allowed to register (additionally register) products that have not yet been registered by the customer.

[0160] Note that if an item is additionally registered after the clerk has performed an operation to complete the item registration (if an item is additionally registered when registration is provisionally completed), the clerk must perform an operation to complete the item registration again (press the subtotal key) in order to display the subtotal screen. In other words, after the item is additionally registered, the subtotal screen is displayed when both the clerk presses the subtotal key again and the customer presses the registration completion key. Note that, instead of the above, the clerk may not be required to perform an operation to complete the item registration again. In other words, after the item is additionally registered, the subtotal screen may be displayed when the customer presses the registration completion key even if the clerk does not press the subtotal key again.

[0161] After the subtotal key is pressed but before the registration completion key is pressed, the clerk may be allowed to additionally register the customer's product as described above, but may also be allowed to register the next customer's product. After the subtotal key is pressed but before the registration completion key is pressed, the clerk display unit 210 may be allowed to declare (designate) whether to additionally register the customer's product or to register the next customer's product. For example, the declaration may be made by a button displayed on the clerk display unit 210.

[0162] In the double scan mode, when the same product is scanned on the customer side and the clerk side, the fact that the same product has been scanned on both the customer side and the clerk side may be notified. For example, a message such as "The same product has been scanned" or "This is the xxth scan" may be displayed on the display unit. The message may be displayed at least on the clerk side. In other words, when the same product is scanned on the customer side and the clerk side, the message is always displayed on the clerk side display unit 210, but the message may or may not be displayed on the customer side display unit 205. For example, when the clerk side scans an item identical to an item already scanned on the customer side, a message may be displayed on the clerk side display unit 210, and when the clerk side scans an item identical to an item already scanned on the customer side, a message may be displayed on both the customer side display unit 205 and the clerk side display unit 210. In addition, for example, whether or not to display the above-mentioned message on the customer side display unit 205 may be controlled according to a setting operation (or a switching operation) by the clerk.

[0163] Also, as described above, during double scan mode, when a product is being registered (registration screen), the clerk-side display unit 210 displays the product registered on the user's side (clerk's side) and the product registered on the other user's side (customer's side) in different display modes, and the customer-side display unit 205 displays the product registered on the user's side (customer's side) and the product registered on the other user's side (clerk's side) in different display modes, but the display modes on the clerk-side display unit 210 and the customer-side display unit 205 are not limited to this.

[0164] For example, the clerk-side display unit 210 may display products registered on the user's side (clerk side) without displaying products registered on the other side (customer side), and the customer-side display unit 205 may display products registered on the user's side (customer side) without displaying products registered on the other side (clerk side). Alternatively, the clerk-side display unit 210 may display products registered on the user's side (clerk side) and products registered on the other side (customer side) in different display modes, and the customer-side display unit 205 may display products registered on the user's side (customer side) without displaying products registered on the other side (clerk side). Alternatively, the clerk-side display unit 210 may display products registered on the user's side (clerk side) without displaying products registered on the other side (customer side), and the customer-side display unit 205 may display products registered on the user's side (customer side) and products registered on the other side (clerk side) in different display modes.

[0165] In addition, the clerk display unit 210 may be able to declare (designate) whether or not an item registered on the other side (customer side) is to be displayed on the customer's side (the clerk display unit 210). Also, instead of or in addition to the above, the clerk display unit 210 may be able to declare (designate) whether or not an item registered on the customer's side (the clerk side) is to be displayed on the other side (the customer display unit 205). Also, instead of or in addition to the above, the customer display unit 205 may be able to declare (designate) whether or not an item registered on the other side (the clerk side) is to be displayed on the customer's side (the customer display unit 205). In either case, the declaration may be made by a button or the like displayed on the screen.

[0166] Also, during product registration, the product registered on your side and the product registered on the other side may be displayed in different display areas, and after the product is registered, the product registered on your side and the product registered on the other side may be displayed in a common display area. In other words, for example, when transitioning from the registration screen to the subtotal screen by pressing a subtotal key or the like, the product registered on your side and the product registered on the other side, which were displayed in different display areas on the registration screen before pressing the subtotal key or the like, may be displayed in a common display area on the subtotal screen after pressing the subtotal key or the like.

[0167] In addition, the clerk display unit 210 may be able to declare (designate) whether the product registered on the user's side and the product registered on the other side are displayed in different display areas or in a common display area in relation to the display mode during or after product registration on the clerk display unit 210 or the customer display unit 205. Also, instead of or in addition to the above, the customer display unit 205 may be able to declare (designate) whether the product registered on the user's side and the product registered on the other side are displayed in different display areas or in a common display area in relation to the display mode during or after product registration on the customer display unit 205. In either case, the declaration may be made by a button or the like displayed on the screen. (Switching operation modes, etc.) When switching the operation mode, the 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), 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.

[0168] In addition, when a store clerk logs in while the POS terminal 20 is in full self-service mode and no store clerk is logged in, the 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).

[0169] That is, when the POS terminal 20 is in the full self-service mode in which the clerk has not logged in, and the clerk logs in, the 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, when a customer requests assistance with product registration to leave everything to the clerk from that point on (when a clerk is called), the clerk operates a button for switching to the normal mode after logging in, when a customer requests assistance with product registration to leave some of the product registration to the clerk from that point on (when a clerk is called), the clerk operates a button for switching to the double scan mode after logging in, and when 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 assistance of a clerk (or when the customer only logs in temporarily and cannot support the customer), the 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.

[0170] 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).

[0171] The 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 has been performed for the predetermined time).

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] (About the printing department) In the above, the POS terminal 20 is provided with one printing unit 213 that can be freely 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 also 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 freely rotatably changed in the direction of the medium issuing port, the 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.

[0175] (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.

[0176] (Regarding analysis, etc.) In the POS system 1, an electronic journal may be stored and utilized for various analyses. The electronic journal may include various information such as product information and registration information, and other output information (including information about customers). For example, the POS terminal 20 (or the store controller 10) may store an electronic journal for each transaction and analyze the operation status of each operation mode (for example, the operation time of each mode by time period and day of the week, by person in charge, or unconditionally) and the registration status of the clerk and customer in the double scan mode (the ratio of the number of product registrations of the clerk and customer, etc. This may be by clerk, or by customer if the customer's attributes (gender and age) can be grasped based on the membership number, etc.). The analysis results may be output to a list, etc.

[0177] In addition, by storing in the electronic journal, for example, the registration start time (in seconds) of the first item in each transaction and the start time of displaying the sub-page, it may be possible to analyze the time required by operation mode (for example, by operation mode and number of items purchased, etc.) (for example, the time required until the registration process is completed (until the sub-page starts to be displayed)).

[0178] (About other indications) Also, the POS terminal 20 may display, for example, information related to errors (for example, a warning about change, a warning about paper, information about calling a store clerk, etc.). Also, by transmitting and receiving information via the LAN 11, information related to other POS terminals 20 may be displayed instead of or in addition to the information related to the POS terminal 20 in question. Also, when displaying information related to other POS terminals 20, the information may be displayed according to the position of the other POS terminals 20 (positional relationship with the POS terminal 20 in question).

[0179] Each POS terminal 20 may refer to information indicating its positional relationship with the other POS terminals 20 (for example, each POS terminal 20 itself may store and refer to the information indicating the positional relationship, or the store controller 10 may store the information indicating the positional relationship, and each POS terminal 20 may access the store controller 10 and refer to the information indicating the positional relationship), and perform display according to the position of the other POS terminals 20. Alternatively, the display position may be determined in advance for each of the other POS terminals 20.

[0180] For example, the left and right display positions may be different depending on the arrangement of the POS terminals 20. As an example, when the first POS terminal 20-1 is arranged on the left side (left side as seen from the store clerk side) of the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3 is arranged on the right side (right side as seen from the store clerk side) of the second POS terminal 20-2 (that is, when seen from the store clerk side display unit 210 side, the first POS terminal 20-1 is arranged on the left side, the second POS terminal 20-2 is arranged in the left-right center, and the third POS terminal 20-3 is arranged on the right side), the store clerk side display unit 210 of the second POS terminal 20-2 arranged in the left-right center may display information about the first POS terminal 20-1 located on the left side of the second POS terminal 20-2 on the left side of the screen, and information about the third POS terminal 20-3 located on the right side of the second POS terminal 20-2 on the right side of the screen.

[0181] Also, on the store clerk display unit 210 of the first POS terminal 20-1 arranged on the left side, information on the second POS terminal 20-2 and the third POS terminal 20-3 located on the right side of the first POS terminal 20-1 may be displayed on the right side of the screen. For example, information on the third POS terminal 20-3 located farther from the first POS terminal 20-1 may be displayed further to the right than information on the second POS terminal 20-2 located closer to the first POS terminal 20-1. Similarly, on the store clerk display unit 210 of the third POS terminal 20-3 arranged on the right side, information on the first POS terminal 20-1 and the second POS terminal 20-2 located on the left side of the third POS terminal 20-3 may be displayed on the left side of the screen. For example, information on the first POS terminal 20-1 located farther from the third POS terminal 20-3 may be displayed further to the left than information on the second POS terminal 20-2 located closer to the first POS terminal 20-1.

[0182] 1 is a display example when three POS terminals 20 are installed in the store, but the same may be true when there are two or four or more POS terminals. In the above, the current operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is notified (displayed), but the current operation modes of the other POS terminals 20 may also be notified (displayed) by acquiring information on the operation modes of the other POS terminals 20 via the LAN 11, for example.

[0183] The following supplementary notes are disclosed below. (Appendix A1) A product sales data processing device for use in selling products, comprising: A store clerk registration means for allowing a store clerk to register a product; A customer registration means for allowing a customer to register a product; a payment processing unit that performs a payment process based on the registered contents of at least one of the store clerk registration unit and the customer registration unit; A switching means for switching the usage state of the store clerk registration means; a prohibition means for prohibiting switching by the switching means when a registration process in the store clerk registration means and the customer registration means or a settlement start process in the settlement means is executed; A product sales data processing device comprising:

[0184] According to supplementary note A1, unintentional switching of the operation mode can be prevented.

[0185] (Appendix 2) 2. The product sales data processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a notification means for notifying that switching by the switching means has been prohibited by the prohibition means.

[0186] According to supplementary note A2, it becomes possible for the store clerk to easily recognize that switching of the operation mode is prohibited.

[0187] (Appendix A3) The product sales data processing device according to claim A1 or A2, further comprising a cancellation means for canceling the prohibition of switching by said prohibition means when said customer registration means is in an available state.

[0188] According to supplementary note A3, by notifying the store clerk, the time required for registering purchased items can be shortened.

[0189] (Appendix A4) A product sales data processing device as described in Appendix 3, comprising a transfer means for transferring information processed before the prohibition by the prohibition means after switching by the switching means when the prohibition is lifted by the lifting means.

[0190] According to Appendix A4, the settlement can be carried out smoothly.

[0191] (Appendix A5) 5. A product sales data processing device as described in claim 3 or 4, further comprising a discarding means for discarding information processed by the prohibition means before the prohibition is lifted by the lifting means.

[0192] According to supplementary note A5, confusion in processing can be prevented.

[0193] (Appendix A6) 6. The product sales data processing device according to claim 3, further comprising a retention unit which, when the prohibition is lifted by the lifting unit, reserves information that was processed before the prohibition by the prohibition unit.

[0194] According to Appendix A6, the settlement can be carried out smoothly.

[0195] (Appendix A7) A computer of a product sales data processing device used for selling products, A store clerk registration means for allowing a store clerk to register products; A customer registration means for customers to register products; a settlement means for carrying out a settlement process based on the registered contents of at least one of the store clerk registration means and the customer registration means; A switching means for switching the usage state of the store clerk registration means; a prohibition means for prohibiting switching by the switching means when a registration process in the clerk registration means and the customer registration means or a settlement start process in the settlement means is executed; A program characterized by causing the program to function as a

[0196] (Appendix B1) A product sales data processing device for use in selling products, comprising: A customer registration means for allowing a customer to register a product; A switching means for switching the usage state of the customer registration means; a timer means for timing the time since the last operation on the customer registration means was accepted; prohibition means for prohibiting the switching process by the switching means based on a time measurement result of the time measurement means; A release means for releasing the inhibition of switching by the inhibition means; Equipped with The product sales data processing device according to claim 1, wherein the release means releases the inhibition of switching imposed by the inhibition means when the clock means has clocked a predetermined time.

[0197] According to the above, it is possible to prevent customers from having to wait.

[0198] (Appendix B2) The product sales data processing device according to claim B1, further comprising a discarding means for discarding information processed by said prohibiting means before the prohibition is lifted by said lifting means.

[0199] According to the above, confusion in processing can be avoided.

[0200] (Appendix B3) The product sales data processing device according to claim B1 or B2, further comprising a retention means for retaining information processed by the prohibition means before the prohibition is lifted by the lifting means.

[0201] According to the above, confusion in processing can be avoided.

[0202] (Appendix B4) A product sales data processing device as described in Appendix B2, comprising a customer identification information means for acquiring customer identification information for identifying a customer who was registered by the customer registration means when the information is discarded by the discarding means.

[0203] Based on the above, it is possible to easily identify the customer who registered the discarded registration information.

[0204] (Appendix B5) A product sales data processing device as described in Appendix B3, comprising a customer identification information means for acquiring customer identification information for identifying a customer who has registered with the customer registration means when the information is reserved by the reservation means.

[0205] Based on the above, it is possible to easily identify the customer who registered the reserved registration information.

[0206] (Appendix B6) A computer of a product sales data processing device used for selling products, A customer registration means for customers to register their products; A switching means for switching the usage state of the customer registration means; a timing means for timing the time from when a predetermined timing start condition related to the customer registration means is satisfied; a prohibition means for prohibiting the switching process by the switching means based on a time measurement result of the time measurement means; A release means for releasing the inhibition of switching by the inhibition means; It is a program to function as The release means releases the inhibition of switching by the inhibition means when the clock means has clocked a predetermined time.

[0207] The program for implementing the POS system 1 and the POS terminal 20 described above may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read into the computer system and executed. 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 the computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that hold the program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) in a computer system that becomes a server or client when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in the transmission medium. The "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be for implementing part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file (differential program). [Explanation of symbols]

[0208] 1. POS system 10…Store Controller 20…POS terminal 201...CPU 202...ROM 203...RAM 204...Hard disk 205…Customer side display section 206…Customer side scanner section 208…Card payment department 209…Change machine 210...Staff side display section 211...Key operation section 212…Clerk side scanner 213…Printing Department 214...Audio output unit 215…Communications Department

Claims

1. A sales data processing device for use in selling products, comprising: A store clerk operation receiving means capable of receiving operations including product registration performed by a store clerk; A customer operation receiving means capable of receiving operations including product registration performed by a customer; a payment processing unit that performs a payment process based on the contents of the product registration by at least one of the store clerk operation reception unit and the customer operation reception unit; a control means for switching between a state in which product registration by the store clerk operation receiving means is possible but product registration by the customer operation receiving means is impossible, and a state in which product registration by the store clerk operation receiving means is impossible but product registration by the customer operation receiving means is possible; Preparation, The sales data processing device is characterized in that, if product registration is not performed by the customer operation accepting means for a predetermined period of time even after product registration has been performed by the customer operation accepting means, the control means switches to a state in which product registration by the store clerk operation accepting means is possible but product registration by the customer operation accepting means is not possible, based on a predetermined operation in the store clerk operation accepting means.

2. A discarding means for discarding registration information of a product registered by the customer operation receiving means. Equipped with The discarding means discards the registration information of the product registered by the customer operation accepting means based on a predetermined operation in the store clerk operation accepting means when the product registration by the customer operation accepting means is not performed for a predetermined time even after the product registration by the customer operation accepting means.

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

3. A program for causing a computer to function as a sales data processing device used for selling products, the program comprising: a sales clerk operation receiving means capable of receiving operations including product registration performed by a sales clerk; and a customer operation receiving means capable of receiving operations including product registration performed by a customer, the program comprising: The computer, a settlement means for carrying out a settlement process based on the contents of the product registration by at least one of the store clerk operation reception means and the customer operation reception means; a control means for switching between a state in which product registration by the store clerk operation receiving means is possible but product registration by the customer operation receiving means is impossible, and a state in which product registration by the store clerk operation receiving means is impossible but product registration by the customer operation receiving means is possible; Function as a The control means is a program characterized in that, if product registration is not performed by the customer operation receiving means for a predetermined period of time even after product registration has been performed by the customer operation receiving means, the control means switches to a state in which product registration by the store clerk operation receiving means is possible but product registration by the customer operation receiving means is not possible, based on a predetermined operation in the store clerk operation receiving means.

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