Transaction processing system, settlement device and program

Abstract

To provide a transaction processing system that allows a settlement device to efficiently acquire information necessary for settlement of a transaction.SOLUTION: A transaction processing system includes an input processing device and a plurality of settlement devices. The input processing device comprises generation means and storage means. The generation means generates settlement information necessary for settlement of a transaction based on input data. The storage means stores the settlement information in a storage unit. The settlement devices each comprise settlement means. When the settlement information is stored in the storage unit and the settlement device can execute settlement processing, the settlement means acquires the settlement information from the storage unit and executes the settlement processing based on the settlement information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a transaction processing system, an input processing device and a settlement device used in the system, and respective programs for the input processing device and the settlement device. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, semi-self-service transaction processing systems have become known as transaction processing systems for mass retailers. This type of transaction processing system separates an input processing device that inputs and registers data on the products to be bought and sold for each transaction, from a payment device that processes the payment for the transaction based on the data registered by the input processing device. The system is arranged so that a store clerk operates the input processing device and a customer operates the payment device.

[0003] In a semi-self-service transaction processing system, the time required for data entry is shorter than in a full-self-service transaction processing system in which the customer enters the data themselves, because a store clerk inputs the data of the product. On the other hand, because the customer operates the payment device, it is expected that customers who are unfamiliar with the operation will have difficulty in making a payment. Therefore, a semi-self-service transaction processing system generally has two or more payment devices for one input processing device. Then, the information required for the settlement of the transaction is sent from the input processing device to one of the payment devices so that the transaction can be settled.

[0004] However, if the input processing device transmits information necessary for settlement of a transaction to the settlement device, but the settlement device is unable to carry out the settlement process because it is, for example, in a busy state, there is a concern that the transmission of the information will be wasted. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-242839 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem that an embodiment of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a transaction processing system in which a payment device can efficiently obtain information necessary for settling a transaction, as well as an input processing device and a payment device used in the system, and each program of the input processing device and the payment device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the transaction processing system includes an input processing device and a plurality of payment devices. The input processing device includes a creation means and a storage means. The creation means creates payment information required for settlement of a transaction based on input data. The storage means stores the payment information in a memory unit. Each payment device includes a payment means. When payment information is stored in the memory unit and the payment device is in a state where it can execute payment processing, the payment means acquires the payment information from the memory unit and executes payment processing based on the payment information. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a transaction processing system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration machine. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the storage unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the payment information. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a first information processing procedure executed by the processor of the registration machine in accordance with the registration program. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a second information processing procedure executed by the processor of the checkout machine in accordance with the payment program. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a specific procedure of the master process shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a specific main procedure of the master process shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a specific procedure of the satellite processing shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an example of a registration screen displayed on the touch panel of the registration machine. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an example of a sub-screen displayed on the touch panel of the registration machine. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the touch panel of the payment machine. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an example of a payment screen displayed on the touch panel of a payment machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a semi-self-service type transaction processing system will be described with reference to the drawings. As described above, the semi-self-service type transaction processing system includes an input processing device and a payment device. The input processing device is a device for inputting data on the products to be bought and sold in each transaction and registering and processing the product sales data. The payment device is a device for acquiring information necessary for the settlement of the transaction, including the product sales data, from the input processing device and processing the settlement of the transaction based on the information and payment data for the price. In the following embodiments, the input processing device is referred to as a registration machine and the payment device is referred to as a cashier machine.

[0010] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a transaction processing system 10 according to this embodiment. The transaction processing system 10 includes a registration machine 11, a billing machine 12, a server 13, and a network 14 connecting these. There are no particular limitations on the type of network 14, but a wired or wireless LAN (local area network) is generally used.

[0011] The registration machine 11 is operated by a store clerk 21 who plays a role called a checker. The payment machine 12 is operated by a consumer who purchases products at the store, a so-called customer 22. In FIG. 1, the registration machine 11 is attached to a work table 23. The work table 23 has a rectangular top. A number of work tables 23 are arranged so that the longitudinal directions of the tops are approximately parallel to each other, thereby forming a passage for the customers 22, a so-called checkout lane.

[0012] The registration machine 11 and the payment machine 12 are arranged for each checkout lane in the store. For each checkout lane, one registration machine 11 and multiple payment machines 12 are arranged. Various data signals are exchanged between the registration machine 11 and the payment machine 12 arranged in the same checkout lane via the network 14. The data signals may be exchanged via the server 13 or may not be exchanged via the server 13.

[0013] FIG. 1 shows an example in which one registration machine 11 and two payment machines 12 are arranged for each of two checkout lanes. Of the two payment machines 12, one payment machine 12-1 is set as the master machine, and the other payment machine 12-2 is set as the satellite machine. In other words, the master machine 12-1 is the first payment machine, and the satellite machine 12-2 is the second payment machine. The functions of the master machine 12-1 and satellite machine 12-2 will be made clear in the explanation below.

[0014] In the following description, when describing the accounting machine 12 without distinguishing between a master machine and a satellite machine, it will be written as "accounting machine 12", and when a distinction is required, it will be written as "master machine 12-1" or "satellite machine 12-2".

[0015] The server 13 includes a product master file 15. The product master file 15 may be stored in a storage device built into the server 13, or may be stored in a storage device externally connected to the server 13.

[0016] The product master file 15 is a data file that stores a product record created for each product sold in the store. The product record is a data record that describes product data such as the product code, product name, unit price, attributes, etc.

[0017] The product code is a unique code set for each product to identify the product. Usually, each product is provided with a barcode or two-dimensional code representing the product code. Alternatively, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag storing the product code may be provided. The registration machine 11 can input the product code of the product being bought and sold in a transaction by reading the barcode, two-dimensional code, or RFID tag provided on the product with a reading device.

[0018] The product name and unit price are the name of the product identified by the product code and the price per item. The attribute is, for example, information about the tax on the product. Information about taxes includes tax rate, tax type (tax excluded, tax included, tax exempt), etc.

[0019] 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration machine 11. The registration machine 11 includes a processor 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage device 33, a clock 34, a communication unit 35, a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, a touch panel 38, a customer display 39, a printer 40, and a system transmission path 41. The system transmission path 41 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, and the like. The system transmission path 41 connects the processor 31 to each of the other parts directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0020] The registration machine 11 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 31, the main memory 32, the auxiliary storage device 33, the clock 34, and the communication unit 35 via a system transmission line 41. The registration machine 11 also connects devices such as a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, a touch panel 38, a customer display 39, and a printer 40 to the computer via the system transmission line 41.

[0021] The processor 31 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 31 controls each part to realize various functions of the registration machine 11 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0022] The main memory 32 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 32 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 32 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 32 may store data required for the processor 31 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 32 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 31. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0023] The auxiliary storage device 33 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 33. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores data used by the processor 31 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 31, etc. The auxiliary storage device 33 may also store the above application programs.

[0024] The clock 34 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 31 processes the date and time kept by the clock 34 as the current date and time.

[0025] The communication unit 35 performs data communication with the server 13 and the accounting machine 12 connected via the network 14. The communication unit 35 can also perform data communication with other registration machines 11 connected via the network 14.

[0026] The keyboard 36 is an input device on which various keys necessary for inputting data relating to the product to be purchased by the customer are arranged.

[0027] The scanner 37 is an example of a reading device capable of reading code symbols such as bar codes, two-dimensional codes, etc. The scanner 37 may be of a type that reads code symbols by scanning with laser light, or of a type that reads code symbols from images captured by an imaging device.

[0028] The touch panel 38 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 38 displays information to a store clerk who is an operator of the registration device 11, and receives operational inputs from the store clerk.

[0029] The customer display 39 displays information to the customer 22 whose purchase data has been registered in the registration machine 11.

[0030] The printer 40 issues receipts by printing various characters or images on receipt paper. This type of printer 40 may be, for example, a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer.

[0031] For example, an existing POS terminal can be used as the hardware of the registration machine 11. The devices connected to the registration machine 11 are not limited to the keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, and printer 40 shown in Fig. 3. Devices required for the application of the registration machine 11 may be added, or some devices may be omitted.

[0032] The registration machine 11 uses a part of the memory area of ​​the auxiliary memory device 33 as a memory unit 331 . 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the memory unit 331. As shown in the figure, the memory unit 331 has a transaction file storage area 51 and an operation information recording area 52. The transaction file storage area 51 is an area for temporarily storing a transaction file created in the registration machine 11. The transaction file is a data file that describes settlement information 511 (see FIG. 4) required for settlement of a transaction.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the payment information 511. As shown in the figure, the payment information 511 includes items such as a transaction number, transaction date and time, a registered machine ID, product sales data, total points, and total amount. The transaction number is a consecutive number that is issued for each transaction to identify each transaction with the customer 22. The transaction date and time is the date and time when the transaction was performed. The registered machine ID is identification information set for the registered machine 11 that processed the transaction. Each registered machine 11 is set with a unique registered machine ID in advance. The product sales data includes items such as the product code, product name, unit price, sales points, sales amount, and attributes of the product purchased by the customer 22. The payment information 511 includes product sales data of all products purchased by the customer 22 in the transaction. The total points is the total value of the sales points of the product sales data in one transaction. The total amount is the total amount of the sales amounts of the product sales data in one transaction. The data structure of the payment information 511 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 4. Other items may be added, or some items may be omitted.

[0034] The operation information recording area 52 is an area in which multiple payment machines 12 installed in the same checkout lane as the registration machine 11 periodically record their operation information. Each payment machine 12 is set with its own unique payment machine ID. For example, the master machine 12-1 is set with "IDx" as its payment machine ID, and the satellite machine 12-2 is set with "IDy" as its payment machine ID. The operation information recording area 52 is divided according to payment machine ID, and for example, the master machine 12-1 records operation information in the operation information recording area 52-1 for payment machine IDx, and the satellite machine 12-2 records operation information in the operation information recording area 52-2 for payment machine IDy. Operation information is information that indicates that a payment machine 12 is operating. In this embodiment, the operation information is information about the current time.

[0035] In the registration machine 11 configured as above, the processor 31 functions as a creating means 311 and a storing means 312. The creating means 311 has a function of creating payment information 511 required for settlement of a transaction based on data related to a product inputted via a reading device or an input device. The storing means 312 has a function of storing a transaction file describing the payment information 511 in the transaction file storage area 51 of the memory unit 331.

[0036] The functions of the creation means 311 and the storage means 312 are both realized by a first information processing executed by the processor 31 in accordance with a registration program. The first information processing will be described later. The registration program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The method of installing the registration program in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33 is not particularly limited. The registration program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or distributed by communication via the network 14, and installed in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card.

[0037] Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment machine 12. Note that since the master machine 12-1 and the satellite machine 12-2 have the same circuit configuration, they will be described as the payment machine 12 without distinction in Fig. 5.

[0038] The accounting machine 12 includes a processor 61, a main memory 62, an auxiliary storage device 63, a clock 64, a communication unit 65, a change machine interface 66, a scanner 67, a touch panel 68, a printer 69, a reader / writer 70, a signal lamp 71, and a system transmission path 72. The system transmission path 72 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 72 connects the processor 61 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0039] The accounting machine 12 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 61, a main memory 62, an auxiliary storage device 63, a clock 64, and a communication unit 65 via a system transmission path 72. The accounting machine 12 also connects device interfaces or devices, such as a change machine interface 66, a scanner 67, a touch panel 68, a printer 69, a reader / writer 70, and a patrol lamp 71, to the computer via the system transmission path 72.

[0040] The processor 61 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 61 controls each part to realize various functions of the payment machine 12 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU.

[0041] The main memory 62 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 62 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 62 stores an operating system or an application program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 62 may store data required for the processor 61 to execute processes for controlling each part in the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 61. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM.

[0042] The auxiliary storage device 63 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a HDD, or an SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 63. The auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by the processor 61 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 61, etc. The auxiliary storage device 63 may also store the above-mentioned application programs.

[0043] The clock 64 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 61 processes the date and time kept by the clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0044] The communication unit 65 performs data communication with the server 13 or the registration machine 11 connected via the network 14. The communication unit 65 can also perform data communication with other accounting machines 12 connected via the network 14.

[0045] The change machine interface 66 constitutes an interface with an automatic change machine (not shown). The change machine interface 66 inputs amount data of the currency inserted into the automatic change machine from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 66 outputs change data from the accounting machine 12 to the automatic change machine. Having input the change data, the automatic change machine automatically pays out currency equivalent to the change data as change.

[0046] The scanner 67 is an example of a reading device that reads code symbols such as bar codes, two-dimensional codes, etc. The scanner 67 may be a type that reads code symbols by scanning with laser light, or a type that reads code symbols from images captured by an imaging device.

[0047] The touch panel 68 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 68 displays information to the customer 22 who is the operator of the payment machine 12, and accepts operational inputs by the customer 22.

[0048] The printer 69 issues receipts by printing various characters or images on receipt paper. As this type of printer 69, for example, a thermal printer or a dot-matrix printer can be used.

[0049] The reader / writer 70 has a function of reading data recorded on a medium such as a card or a smartphone, and a function of writing data to the above-mentioned medium. Cards may include payment cards such as credit cards, debit cards, electronic money cards, and prepaid cards, as well as membership cards such as member's cards and point cards. The reader / writer 70 may be a magnetic, contact, or non-contact device, or may include multiple types of devices.

[0050] The patrol lamp 71 has light emitters of two colors, for example, red and blue. The patrol lamp 71 is provided on the top of a pole that is erected in the vicinity of the payment machine 12 in correspondence with the payment machine 12, and lights up or flashes, for example, in red or blue, depending on the status of the corresponding payment machine 12.

[0051] As the hardware for such a payment machine 12, for example, a POS terminal in an existing full-self-service transaction processing system, a so-called self-checkout register, can be used. Note that the devices connected to the payment machine 12 are not limited to the scanner 67, touch panel 68, printer 69, reader / writer 70, and patrol lamp 71 shown in Fig. 5. Devices required for the purpose of the payment machine 12 may be added, or some devices may be omitted.

[0052] The payment machine 12 uses part of the memory area of ​​the main memory 62 as a memory area 621 for a mode flag MF and a memory area 622 for a busy flag BF. The mode flag MF is 1-bit data for identifying the operation mode of the payment machine 12. There are master mode and satellite mode. The master mode is an operation mode for executing master processing. The satellite mode is an operation mode for executing satellite processing. Details of master processing and satellite processing will be described later. A payment machine 12 whose operation mode is set to the master mode becomes the master machine 12-1. A payment machine 12 whose operation mode is set to the satellite mode becomes the satellite machine 12-2. In this embodiment, the mode flag MF representing the master mode is set to "1", and the mode flag MF representing the satellite mode is set to "0".

[0053] The busy flag BF is one-bit data for identifying whether or not the payment machine 12 is in the middle of a payment process. In this embodiment, the busy flag BF indicating that a payment process is in progress is set to "1", and the busy flag BF indicating that a payment process is not in progress is set to "0".

[0054] In a payment machine 12 configured as above, the processor 61 has the functions of a first confirmation means 611, a settlement means 612, a transmission means 613, a second confirmation means 614, a notification means 615 and a recording means 616. The first confirmation means 611, the settlement means 612, the transmission means 613, the second confirmation means 614 and the notification means 615 are functions possessed by the payment machine 12 operating in master mode, that is, the master machine 12-1. The recording means 616 is a function possessed by the master machine 12-1 and the payment machine 12 operating in satellite mode, that is, the satellite machine 12-2.

[0055] The first confirmation means 611 is a function for confirming whether a transaction file describing the payment information 511 is stored in the memory unit 331 of the registration machine 11 arranged in the same checkout lane. The settlement means 612 is a function for acquiring the transaction file from the memory unit 331 and executing the payment process based on the payment information 511 described in the transaction file when the transaction file is stored in the memory unit 331 and the payment machine 12 is in a state where it can execute the payment process. The transmission means 613 is a function for acquiring the transaction file from the memory unit 331 and transmitting the transaction file to the satellite machine 12-2 arranged in the same checkout lane when the transaction file is stored in the memory unit 331 but the payment machine 12 is not in a state where it can execute the payment process. The second confirmation means 614 is a function for confirming whether the satellite machine 12-2 arranged in the same checkout lane is in a state where it can execute the payment process. The notification means 615 has a function of notifying the registration device 11 in the same checkout lane that the payment process cannot be executed when the master device 12-1 and the satellite device 12-2 in the same checkout lane are not all in a state capable of executing the payment process.

[0056] The recording means 616 is a function that periodically records operation information indicating that its own device is operating in the operation information recording area 52 of the registration device 11 arranged in the same checkout lane. The operation information is, for example, the current time (hh;mm;ss / hour, minute, second) kept by the clock 64. The master device 12-1 records the current time in the operation information recording area 52-1 at regular intervals. The satellite device 12-2 records the current time in the operation information recording area 52-2 at regular intervals. That is, in the operation information recording area 52-1, the master device 12-1 updates the time, which is the operation information, at regular intervals. In the operation information recording area 52-2, the satellite device 12-2 updates the time, which is the operation information, at regular intervals.

[0057] The functions of the first confirmation means 611, the settlement means 612, the transmission means 613, the second confirmation means 614, the notification means 615 and the recording means 616 are all realized by a second information processing executed by the processor 61 according to the settlement program. The second information processing will be described later. The settlement program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The method of installing the settlement program in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 is not particularly limited. The settlement program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or distributed by communication via the network 14, and installed in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store the program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card.

[0058] Fig. 6 is a flow chart showing the procedure of the first information processing executed by the processor 31 of the registration machine 11 according to the registration program. Figs. 7 to 10 are flow charts showing the procedure of the second information processing executed by the processor 61 of the checkout machine 12 according to the settlement program. Figs. 11 and 12 are examples of screens displayed on the touch panel 38, which is a display device of the registration machine 11, and Figs. 13 and 14 are examples of screens displayed on the touch panel 68, which is a display device of the checkout machine 12. Below, the main operations of the transaction processing system 10 will be explained using each figure. Note that the operations explained below are just an example. The procedures or contents of the processing can be changed as appropriate as long as the same effect can be achieved.

[0059] First, a customer 22 places the products he or she wishes to purchase from those displayed in the sales area in a shopping basket or the like, and heads to the checkout lane. When the customer 22 reaches the checkout lane, a store clerk 21 acting as a checker declares the start of registration to the registration machine 11. This operation starts up the registration program of the registration machine 11, and the processor 31 starts the first information processing, the procedure of which is shown in the flow chart of FIG.

[0060] The processor 31 causes the touch panel 38 to display the registration screen SCa (see FIG. 11) in ACT1. FIG. 11 is an example of the registration screen SCa. The registration screen SCa is a screen in which a detail area ARa and a total area ARb are arranged, and further an icon of a subtotal button BTa is arranged. The detail area ARa is an area for displaying the product name, the quantity, the unit price, and the amount in a list format in a series of numerical order. The items displayed in the detail area ARa are not limited to the product name, the quantity, the unit price, and the amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, for example, the amount, may be omitted. The total area ARb is an area for displaying the total of the quantities (dots) and the total amount (yen) displayed in the detail area ARa. The items displayed in the total area ARb are not limited to the total of the quantities and the total amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, for example, the total of the quantities, may be omitted. The subtotal button BTa is an operator that the store clerk 21 touches to instruct the output of the subtotal of the products purchased by the customer 22.

[0061] Returning to the explanation of Figure 6. The processor 31 that controlled the display of the registration screen SCa waits for data related to the product to be input as ACT2. Many products are provided with a barcode indicating the product code, which is the identification information of the product. The store clerk 21 operates the scanner 37 to read the barcode provided on the product purchased by the customer 22. The barcode is read by the scanner 37, and the product code of the purchased product is input to the registration machine 11. On the other hand, some products, such as fresh foods, may not have a barcode provided. When the purchased product does not have a barcode provided, the store clerk 21 touches a product button corresponding to the purchased product from among the product buttons displayed on the touch panel 38. When the product button is touched, the product code of the product corresponding to that product button is input to the registration machine 11.

[0062] When the product code is input, the processor 31 judges YES in ACT2 and proceeds to ACT3. The processor 31 executes product sales data processing in ACT3. That is, the processor 31 acquires product data such as the product name, unit price, attributes, etc. from the product record of the product identified by the product code input via the scanner 37 or touch panel 38. The processor 31 then registers the product sales data including items such as the product code, product name, unit price, sales quantity, sales amount, attributes, etc. in the transaction memory. The transaction memory is part of the volatile memory area in the main memory 32.

[0063] After completing the product sales data processing, the processor 31 checks whether or not the subtotal button BTa has been pressed (ACT4).

[0064] The store clerk sequentially performs operations to input the product codes of the products purchased by the customer 22. Then, when the store clerk has finished inputting the product codes of all the purchased products, the store clerk touches the subtotal button BTa.

[0065] If the subtotal button BTa is not pressed and the product code of the next product is entered, the processor 31 judges NO in ACT4 and YES in ACT2, and proceeds to ACT3. That is, the processor 31 executes product sales data processing. As a result, the product sales data of the purchased product is registered in the transaction memory.

[0066] When the subtotal button BTa is pressed, the processor 31 determines YES in ACT4 and proceeds to ACT5. The processor 31 displays the subtotal screen SCb (see FIG. 12) in ACT5.

[0067] FIG. 12 is an example of the subtotal screen SCb. The subtotal screen SCb is a screen on which a total area ARc is arranged, and further arranged are the icons of a subtotal discount button BTb, a subtotal discount button BTc, a back button BTd, and a payment button BTe. The total area ARc is the same as the total area ARb of the registration screen SCa. The subtotal discount button BTb and the subtotal discount button BTc are operators that the store clerk 21 touches to instruct a discount or reduction on the total amount. The back button BTd is an operator that the store clerk 21 touches to instruct returning to the previous registration screen SCa. The payment button BTe is an operator that the store clerk 21 touches to instruct payment of the price.

[0068] After checking the subtotal screen SCb, the clerk 21 touches the payment button BTe if the customer 22 has finished inputting all the data for the products he or she will purchase and no discount is required. If a subtotal discount is required, the clerk 21 touches the subtotal discount button BTb or the subtotal discount button BTc. If data entry for products remains, the clerk 21 touches the back button BTd.

[0069] Returning to the explanation of Figure 6. The processor 31, which has controlled the display of the sub-plan screen CSb, checks whether the back button BTd has been pressed in ACT6. If the back button BTd has not been pressed, the processor 31 judges NO in ACT6 and proceeds to ACT7. The processor 31 checks whether the payment button BTe has been pressed in ACT7. If the payment button BTe has not been pressed, the processor 31 judges NO in ACT7 and returns to ACT6. Here, the processor 31 waits for the back button BTd or the payment button BTe to be pressed in ACT6 and ACT7. Note that if the subtotal discount button BTb or the subtotal discount button BTc is pressed in this standby state, the processor 31 performs a subtotal discount process or a subtotal discount process, although not shown. After that, the processor 31 returns to the standby state in ACT6 and ACT7.

[0070] In the standby state of ACT6 and ACT7, if the store clerk 21 inputs the back button BTd, the processor 31 judges YES in ACT6 and returns to ACT1. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 38 to the registration screen SCa. Then, the processor 31 executes the processes from ACT2 onwards in the same manner as described above.

[0071] If the store clerk 21 inputs the payment button BTe during the standby state of ACT6 and ACT7, the processor 31 judges YES in ACT7 and proceeds to ACT8. The processor 31 creates a transaction file in ACT8. That is, the processor 31 creates a transaction file that describes the payment information 511 required for the settlement of the transaction from the product sales data of each purchased product registered in the transaction memory, the total number of items, and the total amount, and data that can identify the transaction, such as the transaction number, transaction date and time, and registered machine ID. Then, the processor 31 saves the transaction file in the transaction file storage area 51 of the memory unit 331 in ACT9. Here, the processor 31 realizes the function of the creation means 311 by processing ACT8. The processor 31 also realizes the function of the storage means 312 by processing ACT9.

[0072] After storing the transaction file in the transaction file storage area 51, the processor 31 waits for a payment ready command as ACT 10. The payment ready command is sent from a payment processing capable accounting device 12 via the network 14. The payment ready command includes the accounting device ID of the payment processing capable accounting device 12.

[0073] Having received the payment possible command, processor 31 determines YES in ACT10 and proceeds to ACT11. In ACT11, processor 31 notifies the payment machine 12 identified by the payment machine ID included in the payment possible command as the payment destination. For example, processor 31 causes a payment destination notification screen showing the payment machine ID to be displayed on touch panel 38. A confirmation button icon is displayed on the payment destination notification screen.

[0074] The store clerk 21 instructs the customer 22 to make the payment at the payment machine 12 identified by the payment machine ID, and touches a confirmation button. The customer 22 proceeds to the instructed payment machine 12 and makes the payment for the transaction.

[0075] After notifying the payment destination, processor 31 waits for the confirmation button to be pressed in ACT 12. When the confirmation button is pressed, processor 31 determines YES in ACT 12 and ends the first information processing of the procedure shown in FIG.

[0076] Next, there will be described the procedure of the second information processing executed by the processor 61 of the payment device 12. This procedure is common to the master device 12-1 and the satellite device 12-2. 7, the processor 61 waits for a certain period of time (n seconds) to elapse as ACT 21. n seconds is an arbitrary period of time that is set by the system administrator. The period of time is not particularly limited, but is preferably around 5 seconds.

[0077] When n seconds have passed, the processor 61 judges YES in ACT21 and proceeds to ACT22. The processor 61 obtains the current time measured by the clock 64 in ACT22, and records the current time in the operation information recording area 52 formed in the memory unit 331 of the registration machine 11 arranged in the same checkout lane. That is, the master machine 12-1 with "IDx" set as the accounting machine ID records the current time in the operation information recording area 52-1, and the satellite machine 12-2 with "IDy" set as the accounting machine ID records the current time in the operation information recording area 52-2. Therefore, when the master machine 12-1 is operating normally, the operation information in the operation information recording area 52-1 is updated every n seconds. Similarly, when the satellite machine 12-2 is operating normally, the operation information in the operation information recording area 52-2 is updated every n seconds. Here, the processor 61 realizes the function as a recording means 616 by processing ACT22.

[0078] The processor 61 checks the mode flag MF in ACT 23. If the mode flag MF is "1", that is, if the master device 12-1, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT 23 and proceeds to ACT 29. The processor 61 executes the master process in ACT 29. In this way, the master device 12-1 executes the process of updating the operation information in the operation information recording area 52-1 at n second intervals and also executes the master process.

[0079] If the mode flag MF is "0", i.e., if it is the satellite device 12-2, the processor 61 judges NO in ACT23 and proceeds to ACT24. The processor 61 checks the busy flag BF in ACT24. Here, if the busy flag BF is "1", i.e., if a payment process is in progress, the processor 61 judges YES in ACT24 and returns to the processing of ACT21. In this way, the satellite device 12-2 that is in a busy state during a payment process only performs the processing of updating the operating information in the operating information recording area 52-2 at n second intervals.

[0080] If the busy flag BF is "0", that is, if a payment process is not in progress, the processor 61 judges NO in ACT24 and proceeds to ACT25. The processor 61 acquires the operation information in the operation information recording area 52-1 updated by the master device 12-1 in ACT25. The processor 61 checks whether the time in the operation information is within n seconds of the current time in ACT26. If it is within n seconds, the master device 12-1 is operating normally. The processor 61 judges YES in ACT26 and proceeds to ACT27. The processor 61 executes satellite processing in ACT27.

[0081] On the other hand, if the time in the operation information is not within n seconds of the current time, it is presumed that the master device 12-1 is not operating normally. The processor 61 determines NOS in ACT26 and proceeds to ACT28. The processor 61 executes the master process in ACT28.

[0082] In this way, the satellite device 12-2 in the idle state performs a process of updating the operation information in the operation information recording area 52-2 at n-second intervals. The satellite device 12-2 also monitors whether the master device 12-1 is operating normally at n-second intervals. If the master device 12-1 is operating normally, the satellite device 12-2 performs satellite processing, and if the master device 12-1 is not operating normally, the satellite device 12-2 performs master processing instead of the master device 12-1.

[0083] Next, the procedure of the master process will be described. 8 and 9 are flow charts showing the procedure of the master processing. In ACT31, the processor 61 searches the transaction file storage area 51 of the registration machine 11 arranged in the same checkout lane. In ACT32, the processor 61 checks whether or not a transaction file is stored in the transaction file storage area 51. If a transaction file is not stored, the processor 61 judges NO in ACT32 and ends the master processing.

[0084] If the transaction file is stored in the transaction file storage area 51, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT32 and proceeds to ACT33. The processor 61 checks the busy flag BF in ACT33.

[0085] When the busy flag BF is "0", i.e., in an idle state, the payment machine 12 is ready to process a payment. The processor 61 changes the busy flag BF to "1" in ACT34. The processor 61 also sets the screen of the touch panel 68 to a standby screen in ACT35. The standby screen is a screen that displays a message such as "Please wait a moment" to instruct the customer 22 to wait for an operation. The processor 61 also lights up the patrol lamp 71 in blue in ACT35.

[0086] After completing the processing of ACT34 to ACT36, the processor 61 acquires a transaction file from the transaction file storage area 51 of the registration machine 11 in ACT37. At this time, if multiple transaction files are stored in the transaction file storage area 51, the oldest stored transaction file is acquired. Through this processing, the transaction file is transmitted from the registration machine 11 via the network 14 to the accounting machine 12 that is executing the master processing. The transaction file transmitted to the accounting machine 12 is cleared from the transaction file storage area 51.

[0087] The processor 61, which has acquired the transaction file, notifies the registration machine 11 of a payment possible command as ACT38. The payment possible command is sent from the payment machine 12 to the registration machine 11 via the network 14. The payment possible command includes the payment machine ID of the payment machine 12. As a result, as described above, the registration machine 11 is notified that the payment machine 12 identified by the payment machine ID, in other words, the payment machine 12 that is executing master processing, is the payment destination.

[0088] The processor 61 that has notified the payment possible command updates the screen of the touch panel 68 to the payment method selection screen SCc (see FIG. 13) in ACT39.

[0089] Fig. 13 is an example of the payment method selection screen SCc. The payment method selection screen SCc is a screen on which a total area ARd is arranged, and further arranged are icons of a cash button BTf, a credit button BTg, an electronic money button BTh, and a store clerk call button BTi. The total area ARd is an area for displaying the total points and the total amount included in the transaction file obtained from the registration machine 11. The cash button BTf is an operator that is touched by a customer 22 who selects cash as the payment method. The credit button BTg is an operator that is touched by a customer 22 who selects a credit card as the payment method. The electronic money button BTh is an operator that is touched by a customer 22 who selects electronic money as the payment method. The store clerk call button BTi is an operator that is touched by a customer 22 to call a store clerk.

[0090] The cash button BTf, credit button BTg, and electronic money button BTh function as selection means for selecting a payment method. The payment methods are not limited to the three types of cash, credit card, and electronic money. Any two types may be used, or another payment method may be selectable. The payment method may be one type. In that case, instead of the cash button BTf, credit button BTg, and electronic money button BTh, an operator for instructing the start of payment, such as an icon of a payment start button, may be displayed on the payment method selection screen SCc.

[0091] A customer 22 who has been designated by the store clerk 21 as the payment destination, for example, the master machine 12-1, moves to the master machine 12-1. Then, when the payment method selection screen SCc is displayed on the touch panel 68 of the master machine 12-1, the customer touches the button corresponding to the desired payment method. That is, a customer who wishes to pay in cash touches the cash button BTf, a customer who wishes to pay by credit card touches the credit button BTg, and a customer who wishes to pay by electronic money touches the electronic money button BTh.

[0092] The processor 61, which has controlled the display of the payment method selection screen SCc, waits for any payment method to be selected in ACT40. Then, if a payment method is selected, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT40 and proceeds to ACT41. The processor 61 updates the screen of the touch panel 68 to the payment screen SCd (see FIG. 14) in ACT41. The processor 61 also causes the patrol lamp 71 to flash in blue in ACT42.

[0093] 14 shows the payment screen SCd when cash is selected as the payment method. The payment screen SCd has a display area ARe for the total amount, the amount inserted, and the amount of change, and also has the icons of the settlement button BTj, the back button BTk, and the store clerk call button BTl. Although not shown, the settlement screen when credit card or electronic money is selected as the payment method also has the icons of the settlement button BTj, the back button BTk, and the store clerk call button BTl.

[0094] A customer 22 who has declared that they will pay with cash by touching the cash button BTf inserts cash equal to or greater than the total amount into the automatic change machine and then touches the settlement button BTj. A customer 22 who wishes to change to a payment method other than cash touches the back button BTk. To call a store clerk, the customer 22 touches the store clerk call button BTl. When the back button BTk is touched, the screen on the touch panel 68 returns to the payment method selection screen SCc.

[0095] After completing the processes of ACT41 and ACT42, the processor 61 waits for the settlement button BTj to be pressed in ACT43. If the settlement button BTj is pressed, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT43 and proceeds to ACT44. The processor 61 executes the settlement process in ACT44. For example, if cash is selected as the payment method, the processor 61 executes the process of subtracting the total amount from the amount inserted into the automatic change machine, calculating the change, and dispensing it from the automatic change machine. For example, if a credit card is selected as the payment method, the processor 61 authenticates the credit card read by the reader / writer 70, and determines the total amount as the credit settlement amount on the condition that it is approved by the server 13. For example, if electronic money is selected as the payment method, the processor 61 subtracts the total amount from the balance of the electronic money medium read by the reader / writer 70.

[0096] When the payment process for each payment method is completed in this way, the processor 61 controls the printer 69 as ACT 45 to issue a transaction receipt. The transaction receipt prints payment information 511, that is, the transaction number, transaction date and time, registered machine ID, product sales data, total number of items, total amount, etc.

[0097] The processor 61 that controlled the issuance of the transaction receipt waits for t seconds to pass in ACT 46. t seconds is the estimated time it will take for the customer 22, who has received the transaction receipt, to leave the accounting machine 12. t seconds is an arbitrary time that is set by the system administrator, and is preferably around 10 seconds.

[0098] When t seconds have elapsed, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT 46 and proceeds to ACT 47. The processor 61 resets the busy flag BF to "0" in ACT 47. With this, the processor 61 ends the master process.

[0099] In this way, the accounting machine 12 executing the master process checks at n-second intervals whether a transaction file is stored in the transaction file storage area 51 of the registration machine 11 located in the same checkout lane. Then, when a transaction file is stored and the accounting machine 12 is in a state where it can execute payment processing, it obtains payment information from the transaction file storage area 51 and executes payment processing based on that payment information.

[0100] Here, the processor 61 realizes a function as a first confirmation means 611 by the processing of ACT31 and ACT32. The processor 61 also realizes a function as a payment means 612 by the processing of ACT33 to ACT45.

[0101] On the other hand, in ACT33, if the busy flag BF is "1", i.e., the payment machine 12 is in a busy state, it cannot perform a new payment process. In this case, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT51 in Figure 9. In ACT51, the processor 61 checks the status of the satellite machine 12-2 located in the same checkout lane. In ACT52, the processor 61 checks whether the busy flag BF of the satellite machine 12-2 is "1".

[0102] If the busy flag BF is "0", i.e., if the satellite device 12-2 is in an idle state and is capable of executing payment processing, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT52 and proceeds to ACT53. In ACT53, the processor 61 retrieves a transaction file from the transaction file storage area 51 of the registration device 11. At this time, if multiple transaction files are stored in the transaction file storage area 51, the oldest stored transaction file is retrieved. Through this process, the transaction file is transmitted from the registration device 11 via the network 14 to the accounting device 12 that is executing master processing. The transaction file transmitted to the accounting device 12 is cleared from the transaction file storage area 51.

[0103] The processor 61 that has acquired the transaction file transmits the transaction file to the satellite device 12-2 that has confirmed the status, that is, the satellite device 12-2 that is capable of settlement processing, as ACT 54. With this, the processor 61 ends the master processing.

[0104] By the processing of ACT 54, the transaction file is transmitted via the network 14 from the accounting machine 12 that executes the master processing to the satellite machine 12-2 that has confirmed the status.

[0105] In this way, the accounting machine 12 executing the master process checks at n-second intervals whether a transaction file is stored in the transaction file storage area 51 of a registration machine 11 located in the same checkout lane. If a transaction file is stored but the accounting machine 12 is not in a state to execute the payment process, it obtains the payment information from the transaction file storage area 51 and transmits the payment information to another available accounting machine 12, i.e., satellite machine 12-2.

[0106] Here, the processor 61 realizes a function as a second confirmation means 614 by the processing of ACT51 and ACT52. Also, the processor 61 realizes a function as a transmission means 613 by the processing of ACT53 and ACT54.

[0107] On the other hand, if the busy flag BF is "1" in ACT52, i.e., if the satellite machine 12-2 is busy, not only the payment machine 12 executing the master process but also the other payment machines, i.e., the satellite machine 12-2, cannot perform the payment process. In this case, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT55. The processor 61 sends a busy response command to the registration machine 11 in the same checkout lane to notify that the payment process cannot be performed. With this, the processor 61 ends the master process.

[0108] By the processing of ACT55, the busy response command is transmitted to the registration machine 11 through the network 14. In the registration machine 11 that receives the busy response command, a message is displayed on a part of the screen of the touch panel 38 to notify the store clerk 21 that the payment machine 12 is busy.

[0109] In this way, the payment machine 12 executing the master process checks at n-second intervals whether a transaction file is stored in the transaction file storage area 51 of the registration machine 11 located in the same checkout lane. If a transaction file is stored but not only that payment machine 12 but also other payment machines 12 are in a state where payment processing can be executed, payment information is not obtained from the transaction file storage area 51. The payment machine 12 sends a busy response command to the registration machine 11 to notify it that payment processing cannot be executed.

[0110] Here, the processor 61 realizes the function of a notification means 615 by processing ACT55.

[0111] As described above, the master process may be executed not only by the master device 12-1 but also by the satellite device 12-2. When there is only one satellite device 12-2, there is no satellite device 12-2 whose status should be checked in ACT 51. In that case, the processor 61 ends the master process without executing the processes of ACT 51 to ACT 55.

[0112] Furthermore, when there are two or more satellite devices 12-2, a priority order is set for each satellite device 12-2. When a satellite device 12-2 with a higher priority executes the master process, the status of the satellite device 12-2 with a lower priority can be confirmed in ACT51.

[0113] Next, the procedure of the satellite processing will be described. 10 is a flow chart showing the procedure of satellite processing. The processor 61 checks whether or not a transaction file has been received as ACT61. As described above, if the accounting machine 12 executing the master processing is busy and cannot execute the settlement processing, the transaction file stored in the registration machine 11 in the same checkout lane is transferred to the satellite machine 12-2 via the accounting machine 12 executing the master processing.

[0114] If the transaction file has not been received, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT61 and ends the satellite processing.

[0115] On the other hand, if a transaction file has been received, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT61 and proceeds to ACT62. Then, the processor 61 executes the same processes as those in ACT34 to ACT36 described in the master process in ACT62 to ACT64. That is, the processor 61 changes the busy flag BF to "1" in ACT62, changes the screen of the touch panel 68 to a standby screen in ACT63, and lights up the patrol lamp 71 in blue in ACT63.

[0116] Thereafter, the processor 61 executes the same processes as those of ACT38 to ACT47 described in the master process as ACT65 to ACT74. That is, the processor 61 notifies the registration device 11 of a payment possible command as ACT65. As a result, the registration device 11 is notified of the satellite device 12-2 as the payment destination.

[0117] Having notified the payment possible command, processor 61 updates the screen of touch panel 68 to a payment method selection screen SCc (see FIG. 13) in ACT66. Then, processor 61 waits for a payment method to be selected in ACT67. When a payment method is selected, processor 61 updates the screen of touch panel 68 to a payment screen SCd (see FIG. 14) in ACT68. Processor 61 also causes patrol lamp 71 to flash blue in ACT69.

[0118] After controlling the display of the payment screen SCd, processor 61 waits for the settlement button BTj to be pressed (ACT70). When the settlement button BTj is pressed, processor 61 executes the payment process (ACT71). Then, when the payment process is completed, processor 61 controls printer 40 (ACT72) to issue a transaction receipt. After issuing the transaction receipt, processor 61 waits for t seconds to pass (ACT73). Then, when t seconds have passed, processor 61 resets busy flag BF to "0" (ACT74). With this, processor 61 ends the satellite processing.

[0119] As described above in detail, in the transaction processing system 10 of this embodiment, the payment information of the transaction file created by the registration machine 11 is sent to the accounting machine 12 only when the master machine 12-1 is capable of executing the payment process or when the satellite machine 12-2 is capable of executing the payment process. Therefore, the sending of the payment information is not wasted. It is therefore possible to provide a transaction processing system 10 that allows the accounting machine 12 to efficiently obtain the payment information necessary for the settlement of a transaction, as well as a registration machine 11 and accounting machine 12 used in the transaction processing system 10, a registration program for the registration machine 11, and a payment program for the accounting machine 12.

[0120] Also, if neither the master machine 12-1 nor the satellite machine 12-2 is able to process the payment, a busy response command is sent to the registration machine 11. Then, for example, when the busy flag BF becomes "0" in the master machine 12-1 and payment becomes possible, the master machine 12-1 acquires payment information from the registration machine 11 and executes the payment process. Also, when the busy flag BF becomes "0" in the satellite machine 12-2 before the master machine 12-1, and payment becomes possible, the master machine 12-1 acquires payment information from the registration machine 11 and transmits the payment information to the satellite machine 12-2. As a result, the satellite machine 12-2 executes the payment process. Therefore, even if the master machine 12-1 and the satellite machine 12-2 are busy, the payment process can be performed promptly when the busy state is resolved, so that the transaction can be settled efficiently.

[0121] In addition, for example, if the master device 12-1 breaks down and is unable to update the operation information, the satellite device 12-2 executes the master process in place of the master device 12-1. Therefore, even if the master device 12-1 breaks down, there is no need to worry about delays in settlement.

[0122] Although the embodiment of the transaction processing system 10 has been described above, the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0123] The number of payment machines 12 arranged in one checkout lane is not limited to two. There may be three or more payment machines 12. In that case, one payment machine 12 becomes a master machine 12-1, and the other payment machines 12 become satellite machines 12-2.

[0124] The memory unit 331 does not have to be in the auxiliary memory device 33 of the registration machine 11. For example, a part of the RAM area in the main memory 32 of the registration machine 11 may be used as the area of ​​the memory unit 331. In addition, in the storage device of the server 13, a memory unit 331 may be formed for each registration machine 11 connected to the network 14, and each registration machine 11 may store a transaction file in the transaction file storage area 51 of the memory unit 331 assigned to it.

[0125] The operation information is not limited to information about the current time. For example, the payment machine 12 may record the count value of a counter that counts up every n seconds in the operation information recording area 52 of the register 11 as the operation information.

[0126] In the above embodiment, one of the two payment machines 12 is set as the master machine 12-1, and the other is set as the satellite machine 12-2. In another embodiment, both of the two payment machines 12 execute master processing. In this case, one of the payment machines (hereinafter referred to as payment machine 12-3) executes master processing at 10 second intervals, for example, at 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds, and 60 seconds every hour. The other payment machine (hereinafter referred to as payment machine 12-4) executes master processing at 10 second intervals, for example, at 5 seconds, 15 seconds, 25 seconds, 35 seconds, 45 seconds, and 55 seconds every hour.

[0127] By doing so, for example, if a transaction file is stored in the transaction file storage area 51 when the accounting machine 12-3 executes the master process, and if the accounting machine 12-3 is capable of executing the payment process, the accounting machine 12-3 acquires the transaction file and performs the payment process. If the accounting machine 12-3 is unable to execute the payment process and the other accounting machine 12-4 is capable of executing the payment process, the accounting machine 12-3 acquires the transaction file and transmits it to the other accounting machine 12-4, which then performs the payment process. Similarly, if a transaction file is stored in the transaction file storage area 51 when the accounting machine 12-4 executes the master process, and if the accounting machine 12-4 is capable of executing the payment process, the accounting machine 12-4 acquires the transaction file and performs the payment process. If the relevant payment machine 12-4 is unable to execute the payment process and the other payment machine 12-3 is able to execute the payment process, the relevant payment machine 12-4 acquires the transaction file and transmits the transaction file to the other payment machine 12-3, which then executes the payment process. Here, the interval at which master processing is executed by the payment machine 12-3 or the payment machine 12-4 is 5 seconds. Therefore, the same effect as when n seconds is 5 seconds in the above embodiment is achieved.

[0128] Although several other embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope of the invention and the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. The invention as originally claimed in the present application is set forth below. [1] A transaction processing system including an input processing device and a plurality of payment devices, wherein the input processing device has a creation means for creating payment information necessary for settlement of a transaction based on input data, and a storage means for storing the payment information in a memory unit, and each of the payment devices has a payment means for acquiring the payment information from the memory unit and executing the payment processing based on the payment information when the payment information is stored in the memory unit and the payment device is in a state where it can execute payment processing. [2] A transaction processing system as described in Appendix [1], further comprising a transmission means for acquiring the payment information from the memory unit and transmitting the payment information to other payment devices when the payment information is stored in the memory unit but the payment device is not in a state where it can execute payment processing. [3] A transaction processing system as described in appendix [2], wherein one of the payment devices is set as a master device and the others are set as satellite devices, and the first payment device set as the master device is equipped with a first confirmation means for confirming whether the payment information is stored in the memory unit, and when the payment information is stored in the memory unit and the payment device is in a state where it can execute payment processing, the first confirmation means acquires the payment information from the memory unit and executes payment processing based on the payment information, and when the payment information is stored in the memory unit but the payment device is not in a state where it can execute payment processing, the first confirmation means acquires the payment information from the memory unit and transmits the payment information to the second payment device set as the satellite device. [4] A transaction processing system as described in Appendix [3], further comprising a second confirmation means for confirming whether the second payment device set in the satellite device is in a state capable of executing the payment processing, and if the first payment device set in the master device and the second payment device set in the satellite device are not both in a state capable of executing the payment processing, the payment information is not acquired from the memory unit. [5] A transaction processing system as described in Appendix [4], further comprising a notification means for notifying the input processing device that the payment processing cannot be executed when the first payment device set in the master machine and the second payment device set in the satellite machine are not both in a state capable of executing the payment processing. [6] A transaction processing system as described in any one of appendices [3] to [5], wherein the first payment device set in the master machine and the second payment device set in the satellite machine each have a recording means for periodically recording operation information indicating that the device is operating, and when the recording of the operation information by the first payment device set in the master machine is interrupted, the second payment device set in the satellite machine checks whether the payment information is stored in the memory unit, and when the payment information is stored in the memory unit and the second payment device is in a state where it can execute payment processing, it acquires the payment information from the memory unit and executes payment processing based on the payment information. [7] An input processing device that constitutes a transaction processing system and multiple payment devices that, when payment information is stored in a memory unit and a state in which payment processing can be executed, acquires the payment information from the memory unit and executes payment processing based on the payment information, said input processing device having a creation means that creates payment information necessary for transaction settlement based on input data, and a storage means that stores the payment information in the memory unit. [8] A payment device constituting a transaction processing system, comprising an input processing device which creates payment information necessary for settlement of a transaction based on input data and stores the payment information in a memory unit, the payment device comprising: a first confirmation means which confirms whether the payment information is stored in the memory unit; and, when the payment information is stored in the memory unit and the payment device is in a state in which it is able to execute payment processing, a payment means which acquires the payment information from the memory unit and executes payment processing based on the payment information. [9] A payment device as described in appendix [8], further comprising a transmission means for acquiring the payment information from the memory unit and transmitting the payment information to another payment device when the payment information is stored in the memory unit but the payment device is not in a state in which it can execute payment processing.

[10] A program for causing a computer of an input processing device that constitutes a transaction processing system and a plurality of payment devices that acquire the payment information from the memory unit and execute payment processing based on the payment information when payment information is stored in the memory unit and the payment processing can be executed, to function as a creation means that creates payment information necessary for transaction settlement based on input data, and a storage means that stores the payment information in the memory unit.

[11] An input processing device that creates payment information necessary for the settlement of a transaction based on input data and stores the payment information in a storage unit, and a computer of a payment device that constitutes a transaction processing system, comprising a first confirmation means that confirms whether the payment information is stored in the storage unit, and A program for functioning as a payment means that, when the payment information is stored in the memory unit and the payment device is in a state where it can execute payment processing, acquires the payment information from the memory unit and executes payment processing based on the payment information.

[12] A program described in Appendix

[11] for causing the computer of the payment device to further function as a transmission means for acquiring the payment information from the memory unit and transmitting the payment information to another payment device when the payment information is stored in the memory unit but the payment device is not in a state where it can execute payment processing. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 10...transaction processing system, 11...registration machine, 12...accounting machine, 12-1...master machine, 12-2...satellite machine, 13...server, 14...network, 15...product master file, 21...store clerk, 22...customer, 51...transaction file storage area, 52...operation information recording area, 311...creation means, 312...storage means, 331...memory unit, 511...payment information, 611...first confirmation means, 612...payment means, 613...transmission means, 614...second confirmation means, 615...notification means, 616...recording means.

Claims

1. An input processing device and a plurality of payment devices, The input processing device includes: a means for generating payment information necessary for settling a transaction based on the input data; A storage means for storing the payment information in a storage unit; Equipped with Each of the payment devices is a first confirmation means for confirming whether the payment information is stored in the storage unit; a payment means for acquiring the payment information from the storage unit and executing the payment process based on the payment information when the first confirmation means confirms that the payment information is stored in the storage unit and the payment device is in a state where it can execute a payment process; A transaction processing system comprising:

2. Each of the payment devices is a transmission means for acquiring the payment information from the storage unit and transmitting the payment information to another payment device when the first confirmation means confirms that the payment information is stored in the storage unit but the payment device is not in a state in which it can execute a payment process; 2. The transaction processing system of claim 1, further comprising:

3. Among the settlement devices, one is set as a master device and the others are set as satellite devices; the first settlement device set as the master device includes the first confirmation means; When it is confirmed by the first confirmation means that the payment information is stored in the storage unit and the payment device is in a state in which it can execute a payment process, the payment information is acquired from the storage unit, and the payment process is executed based on the payment information; A transaction processing system as described in claim 2, wherein when it is confirmed that the payment information is stored in the memory unit but the payment device is not in a state in which it can execute the payment process, the payment information is obtained from the memory unit and the payment information is transmitted to a second payment device set in the satellite machine.

4. The first settlement device set in the master device is a second confirmation means for confirming whether a second settlement device set in the satellite machine is in a state in which the settlement process can be executed; Further comprising: A transaction processing system as described in claim 3, wherein the payment information is not acquired from the memory unit if the first payment device set in the master machine and the second payment device set in the satellite machine are not both in a state capable of executing the payment processing.

5. The first settlement device set in the master device is a notification means for notifying the input processing device that the payment process cannot be executed when the first payment device set in the master device and the second payment device set in the satellite device are not both in a state capable of executing the payment process; 5. The transaction processing system of claim 4, further comprising:

6. The first payment device set in the master device and the second payment device set in the satellite device each include a recording means for periodically recording operation information indicating that the device itself is operating; Equipped with A transaction processing system as described in any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein when the recording of operation information by the first payment device set to the master device is interrupted, the second payment device set to the satellite device checks whether the payment information is stored in the memory unit, and when the payment information is stored in the memory unit and the second payment device is in a state where it can execute payment processing, it obtains the payment information from the memory unit and executes payment processing based on the payment information.

7. An input processing device and a payment device constituting a transaction processing system, the input processing device creating payment information necessary for settlement of a transaction based on input data and storing the payment information in a storage unit, a first confirmation means for confirming whether the payment information is stored in a storage unit of the input processing device; a payment means for acquiring the payment information from the storage unit and executing the payment process based on the payment information when the first confirmation means confirms that the payment information is stored in the storage unit and the payment device is in a state where it can execute a payment process; A payment device comprising:

8. A transmission means for acquiring the payment information from the storage unit and transmitting the payment information to another payment device when the first confirmation means confirms that the payment information is stored in the storage unit but the payment device is not in a state in which it can execute a payment process; The payment device according to claim 7, further comprising:

9. An input processing device that creates payment information necessary for settling a transaction based on input data and stores the payment information in a storage unit, and a computer of a payment device that constitutes a transaction processing system, a first confirmation means for confirming whether the payment information is stored in a storage unit of the input processing device; and a payment means for acquiring the payment information from the storage unit and executing the payment process based on the payment information when it is confirmed by the first confirmation means that the payment information is stored in the storage unit and the payment device is in a state in which it can execute a payment process; A program to function as a

10. A computer of the payment device, a transmission means for acquiring the payment information from the storage unit and transmitting the payment information to another payment device when the first confirmation means confirms that the payment information is stored in the storage unit but the payment device is not in a state in which it can execute a payment process; The program according to claim 9, further functioning as

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