SALES DATA PROCESSING APPARATUS, PROGRAM, AND SALES DATA PROCESSING METHOD

Abstract

To efficiently perform processing.SOLUTION: A sales data processing device that can operate in a plurality of operation modes, includes instruction reception means for receiving an operation mode switching instruction to switch an operation mode of an own device, and control means for controlling the own device. The control means controls execution of operation mode switching processing of switching the operation mode of the own device when a state of the own device upon the operation mode switching instruction is an initial state, and executes another processing different from the operation mode switching processing in place of the operation mode switching processing or in addition to the operation mode switching processing when the state of the own device upon the operation mode switching instruction is not the initial state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] A plurality of POS registers are generally installed in convenience stores, supermarkets, etc. Also, a POS register that operates in a plurality of operation modes has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

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

[0004] However, even if multiple POS registers are installed, there is a problem that the number of store clerks is insufficient, limiting the number of customers that can be processed, making it difficult to process transactions efficiently.

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

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a sales data processing device according to one aspect of the present invention is a sales data processing device capable of operating in a plurality of operating modes, and is provided with an instruction receiving means for receiving an operation mode switching instruction for switching the operation mode of the device itself, and a control means for controlling the device itself, and if the state of the device itself when the operation mode switching instruction is received is an initial state, the control means controls execution of an operation mode switching process for switching the operation mode of the device itself, and if the state of the device itself when the operation mode switching instruction is received is not an initial state, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, executes another process different from the operation mode switching process. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of a POS system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation of a POS terminal. [Diagram 3] FIG. 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] 13 is a display example of a POS terminal in full self-service mode. [Figure 8] 13 is a display example of a POS terminal in full self-service mode. [Figure 9] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 10] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 11] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 12] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 13] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 14] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 15] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 16] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 17] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 18] This is an example of display on a POS terminal. [Figure 19] 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining processes that can be executed after a mode switching operation. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal. [Diagram 23] 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation. [Figure 24] 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation. [Diagram 25] 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation. [Figure 26] 1 is an example of a layout of a POS terminal. [Figure 27] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. [Figure 28] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. [Figure 29] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a bag receiver. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] 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 20-1, 20-2, and 20-3, and a store controller (store computer, management device) 10, which are communicatively connected via a LAN 11. Hereinafter, the POS terminals 20-1, 20-2, and 20-3 will be collectively referred to as the POS terminal 20 unless otherwise specified. The POS system 1 may further include a monitoring terminal (not shown) that displays the status of the POS terminal 20 (operation mode, processing status, etc.) and controls the POS terminal 20.

[0009] The POS system 1 can be introduced into various stores (convenience stores, supermarkets, etc.).

[0010] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of installation of the POS terminal 20. Fig. 2(A) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the customer side. Fig. 2(B) is a perspective view of the POS terminal 20, etc., as seen from the store clerk side. As shown in Fig. 2(A), a counter is placed to the right of the POS terminal 20 as seen from the customer side.

[0011] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the POS terminal 20. 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.

[0012] 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 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a hard disk 204, a customer display unit 205, a customer scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change dispenser 209, a store clerk display unit 210, a key operation unit 211, a store clerk scanner unit 212, a printing unit 213, an audio output unit 214, and a communication unit 215. These can communicate with each other via a bus. The reference characters 211a, 211b, and 211c will be described later.

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

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

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

[0016] The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers, which displays various information to customers and accepts various inputs from customers. The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers, and optically reads various information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 206 optically reads barcodes (product codes, etc.) attached to products and codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on bills (registered trademarks). In addition to the above, the customer-side scanner unit 206 may also read gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, complimentary coupons) and codes (barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc.) printed on various cards (for example, membership cards, point cards, etc.).

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

[0018] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism using various cards (credit cards, prepaid cards such as transportation cards, point cards, etc.). The card payment unit 208 includes a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit. The card recognition unit magnetically or electrically reads information on various cards. The read information is used for payment (settlement) of the purchased items. The card recognition unit may recognize various cards not only when the recognized information is used for payment (settlement) of the purchased items (i.e., in the case of credit card payment, prepaid card payment, and the use (consumption) of points held on a point card), but also when the recognized information is not used for payment (settlement) of the purchased items (for example, when a special offer is given by presenting a credit card, when points are given to a point card, etc.). The card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes a card recognition unit (reading unit), a display unit, and an operation unit, but the card payment unit 208 may include at least a card recognition unit. Further, the card recognition unit in this embodiment is compatible with contact cards (IC cards, magnetic cards), but may be compatible with non-contact cards (IC cards) instead of or in addition to contact cards.

[0019] The change machine 209 (cash settlement unit) is a cash settlement mechanism, which has an input port for banknotes and coins, and an output port for banknotes and coins, calculates the amount of money inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the input amount and the purchase amount, and outputs the change from the output port. The change machine 209 faces the customer and is operated by the customer. When banknotes or coins are inserted into the input port, they are detected by a sensor (detecting that they have been inserted, detecting the number of coins by denomination, etc.).

[0020] The store clerk's display unit 210 is a touch display for the store clerk, which displays various information to the store clerk and receives various inputs from the store clerk. The key operation unit 211 is made up of various keys (hardware keys, buttons) and receives various inputs from the store clerk. The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for store clerks, and optically reads various information. For example, the store clerk scanner unit 212 optically reads barcodes attached to products and store clerk codes attached to store clerk nametags. In addition to the above, the store clerk scanner unit 212 may also read codes printed on bills, gift certificates, and various cards.

[0021] Although the store clerk's scanner unit 212 is used when the store clerk registers a product, the store clerk may register the product by other methods. For example, if a key corresponding to a product (e.g., a key corresponding to a sports newspaper, etc.) is arranged on the key operation unit 211, the store clerk may operate (press) 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 may operate that preset key to register the product.

[0022] The printing unit 213 prints and issues various media (receipts, bills, etc.). The printing unit 213 can freely rotate to change its orientation (direction of the media issuing port) from the clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the clerk side. The orientation of the printing unit 213 may be changed manually, or may be changed automatically (mechanically controlled, etc.) based on, for example, a change in operating mode (details to be described later). The correctness of the orientation of the printing unit 213 may be detected by a sensor or the like. Switching the operating mode is also referred to as a transition of the operating mode.

[0023] The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance and the like. The communication unit 215 transmits and receives information to and from other terminals (other POS terminals 20, the store controller 10).

[0024] (Overview of each operation mode) Next, a description will be given of the operation modes of the POS terminal 20. The POS terminal 20 has a plurality of operation modes. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 has at least three types of operation modes (normal mode, full self-service mode, and semi-self-service mode).

[0025] It should be noted that the above-mentioned operating modes are operating modes during normal business operations (operating modes related to registration processing and settlement processing), and do not include a calculation mode in which sales and inventory are calculated and inquired, a maintenance mode in which store clerks or maintenance personnel perform setup and maintenance work, a training mode in which new employees are trained, etc.

[0026] In addition, in the following description, as a separate aspect from the above-mentioned classification of operation modes (normal mode, full self-service mode, semi-self-service mode), the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the registration process may be referred to as the registration mode, and the mode in which the POS terminal 20 executes the settlement process as the accounting mode.

[0027] 5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the outline of the operation modes of the POS terminal 20. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the normal mode. FIG. 5(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (registration process, settlement process) and the actions of people (store clerks, customers) in the normal mode, and FIG. 5(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of operations of the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the full self-service mode. FIG. 6(A) is a schematic diagram showing the flow of processes (registration process, settlement process) and the actions of people (customers) in the full self-service mode, and FIG. 6(B) is a flowchart showing the basic flow of operations of the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode.

[0028] (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 POS terminal 20 is in registration mode on the clerk side and in payment mode on the customer side. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in normal mode operates in the registration payment mode from the registration process to the payment process as a whole.

[0029] 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 (scanning by the store clerk scanner unit 212, touching the store clerk display unit 210, operating the key operation unit 211) (upper part of FIG. 5(A)).

[0030] 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 currency (cash) 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 cash into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 5(A)).

[0031] That is, in normal mode, as shown in Fig. 5(B), first, the clerk scans the product (step S10: YES) and registers the product (step S11). After the subtotal key (e.g., the subtotal key displayed on the clerk display unit 210 or the subtotal key arranged on the key operation unit 211) is pressed (step S30: YES), the customer uses, for example, the change dispenser 209 to settle the amount (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, registration completion key, registration completion button, checkout key, checkout button, etc.

[0032] The customer may wait until the registration process is completed by the store clerk (until the total amount is finalized), but may also insert cash into the change dispenser 209 before the registration process is completed. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can accept deposits during the registration process (upper part of FIG. 5(A)).

[0033] In addition, the customer may select a payment method (also referred to as a payment type, settlement method, or settlement type) before completing the registration process. In other words, the POS terminal 20 can accept the selection of a payment method during the registration process (details will be described later).

[0034] The store clerk may wait until the customer completes the payment (until the customer receives the change and receipt), but may also register the items purchased by the next customer. That is, the POS terminal 20 can register the items purchased by the next customer during the payment process (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). The store clerk may be absent while the customer is paying (lower part of FIG. 5(A)). That is, the store clerk may finish serving the customer while the customer is paying.

[0035] Furthermore, when there is change, the POS terminal 20 may control the dispenser 209 to dispense the change and the change note to prevent the customer from forgetting to take the change, and after detecting with a sensor or the like that the customer has removed the change and the change note, control the printing unit 213 to print a receipt. This is also true in other operation modes.

[0036] In the normal mode, in addition to the above-mentioned process of executing the registration process on the store clerk side and executing the settlement process on the customer side of the terminal using the registration information generated in the registration process (see FIG. 5), the store clerk side can also execute the registration process and transmit the registration information generated in the registration process to another terminal (another terminal capable of executing the settlement process, for example, another POS terminal 20) (directly to the other terminal via the LAN 11, or via the store controller 10 or a monitoring terminal (not shown); the same applies below), and the registration information generated in the registration process can be converted into a code (barcode, two-dimensional code, etc.), printed on a medium, and issued as a bill. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode has a function of registering products on the terminal itself and settling the payment on the terminal itself, as well as a function of registering products on the terminal itself and settling the payment on the terminal itself.

[0037] The above-mentioned function of registering a commodity at its own terminal and making the payment at another terminal is an inherent function of the semi-self-service mode. The semi-self-service mode is classified into a registration-only mode and a payment-only mode. The POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) has a function of registering a commodity at its own terminal and making the payment at another terminal. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) executes a registration process at the store clerk's side and transmits the registration information generated in the registration process to the other terminal (or encodes the registration information generated in the registration process, prints it on a medium, and issues it as a bill). The POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (payment-only mode) has a function of making the payment for a commodity registered at the other terminal. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (payment-only mode) receives the registration information transmitted from the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode) (or reads the bill issued by the POS terminal 20 in the semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode)) and performs the payment process.

[0038] The POS terminal 20 in normal mode, like the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode), has a function of registering products at its own terminal and having the payment made at another terminal, but the POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode (like the POS terminal 20 in normal mode) may have a function of paying for products registered at another terminal, like the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting-only mode). In other words, the POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode and the POS terminal 20 in normal mode may receive registration information (or read an accounting ticket) from another terminal (the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (registration-only mode), the normal mode POS terminal 20, etc.) and perform the payment process.

[0039] (Full self mode) As shown in Fig. 6(A), the full self-service mode is an operation mode in which the customer executes the registration process and the payment process. That is, as shown in Fig. 6(B), the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode can be in both the registration mode and the payment mode on the customer side. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode operates in the registration and payment mode when viewed from the entire process from the registration process to the payment process.

[0040] 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)).

[0041] 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 cash into the change machine 209 or operating the card payment 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 cash into the change machine 209, operating the card payment unit 208) (lower part of FIG. 6(A)).

[0042] That is, in the full self-service mode, as shown in Fig. 6(B), the customer side scans the product (step S20: YES) and registers the product (step S21). After pressing a registration completion key (e.g., a registration completion key displayed on the customer side display unit 205) (step S40: YES), the customer side settles the bill, for example, using 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.

[0043] As described above, in the full self-service mode, both the customer side performs the registration process and the settlement process, but this does not mean that the store clerk side cannot do anything. In other words, even when the POS terminal 20 is operating in the full self-service mode, it is possible to, for example, scan the store clerk code with the store clerk scanner unit 212, display various information, and register products. The state (operation mode) in which registration processes are performed on both the store clerk side and the customer side is sometimes called the double scan mode.

[0044] (Operation mode notification) Each POS terminal 20 may notify the current operation mode of the terminal. For example, each POS terminal 20 may display the current operation mode of the terminal on the clerk display unit 210. Specifically, each POS terminal 20 may display a screen having an operation mode display field of the terminal on the clerk display unit 210, and display the current operation mode of the terminal in the operation mode display field on the screen. Also, each POS terminal 20 may display a screen on which images corresponding to each operation mode (for example, button-like images) are arranged on the clerk display unit 210, and display the images corresponding to the current operation mode of the terminal on the screen in a different display mode (for example, a display mode that is more prominent than the display mode of other images) from images that do not correspond to the current operation mode. For example, a normal mode image and a full self-timer mode image may be always displayed, and when the current operation mode of the terminal is the normal mode, the normal mode image may be displayed in a more prominent display mode than the full self-timer mode image, and when the current operation mode of the terminal is the full self-timer mode, the full self-timer mode image may be displayed in a more prominent display mode than the normal mode image. Each POS terminal 20 may also display the current operation mode of the terminal on the customer side display unit 205 in the same manner.

[0045] Furthermore, each POS terminal 20 may report the current operation mode of the other terminal instead of or in addition to the current operation mode of the own terminal. That is, each POS terminal 20 may report the current operation mode of the other terminal by recognizing the current operation mode of the other terminal. One example of a method for each POS terminal 20 to recognize the current operation mode of the other terminal is a method in which each POS terminal 20 notifies the other terminal of the operation mode after the transition (the latest operation mode) after the transition of the operation mode (directly notifying the other terminal via the LAN 11, or notifying the other terminal via the store controller 10 or a monitoring terminal (not shown)). Furthermore, each POS terminal 20 may report the current processing status of the other terminal as well as the current operation mode of the other terminal.

[0046] Furthermore, each POS terminal 20 may report information according to its own current operation mode, etc. (operation mode, processing status, etc.). For example, when the current operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is the full self mode, for example when it is in standby, the POS terminal 20 may display a predetermined message (see, for example, FIG. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 205. Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 may report information according to the current operation mode, etc. of other terminals instead of or in addition to the information according to the current operation mode of the terminal itself.

[0047] (Switching (transitioning) operation modes) Next, a description will be given of the transition of the operation mode of the POS terminal 20. The operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is switched (the operation mode is transitioned) according to an explicit mode switching operation (also referred to as a mode transition operation) by a store clerk. Specifically, the operation mode is switched according to the operation of the mode switching button 211a (see FIG. 3(B)) located at the top and rightmost end of the key operation unit 211.

[0048] 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 the operation mode and to easily switch the operation mode. 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 the mode switching operation to be performed without stress.

[0049] Furthermore, since the mode switching button 211a is located in the upper right corner (top row and rightmost) of the key operation unit 211, the mode switching operation can be performed not only when the clerk is on the clerk side but also when the clerk is on the customer side. In other words, a clerk on the customer side cannot usually see the buttons on the key operation unit 211, but the clerk can easily recognize the mode switching button 211a located on the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211 by reaching out from the customer side and feeling for it (by touch), so the clerk on the customer side can perform the mode switching operation without moving to the clerk side.

[0050] In this embodiment, the mode switching button 211a is disposed in the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211, but the mode switching button 211a may be disposed in a position other than the upper right corner of the key operation unit 211 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 disposing 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 as to be distinguishable from other buttons even from the customer 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 can switch the operation mode without an explicit mode switching operation. For example, the POS terminal 20 switches the operation mode based on conditions related to time such as elapsed time (e.g., time elapsed since the last operation) or a predetermined time (schedule), and conditions related to transmission and reception of information such as a mode switching instruction (mode switching command) from another terminal (the POS terminal 20, a monitoring terminal, a mobile terminal, etc.).

[0053] In addition, regardless of whether the mode switching is performed by an explicit mode switching operation by a store clerk or not, when the POS terminal 20 switches the operating mode of its own terminal, it may notify other terminals of the operating mode after the switch (the latest operating mode).

[0054] In the following description, it is assumed that the POS terminals 20-1 and 20-2 are in the normal mode. Also, it is assumed that the POS terminal 20-3 is in the full self-service mode. Also, in the following description, it is assumed that the operation mode of the POS terminal 20 is switched every time the mode switching button 211a is operated (pressed). However, in the following description, for the sake of convenience, a description of the semi-self-service mode is omitted, so it is assumed that basically, every time the mode switching button 211a is operated, the operation mode is switched from the normal mode to the full self-service mode, and vice versa.

[0055] (Display example of POS terminal 20 in full self-service mode) 7 and 8 are examples of displays on the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode. Specifically, Fig. 7(A), Fig. 7(B), and Fig. 8(A) to Fig. 8(F) are all examples of displays on the customer-side display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20-3 in the full self-service mode.

[0056] Fig. 7(A) shows the display contents of the registration start screen before the start of the registration process. In Fig. 7(A), the registration start button BT30 on the right of the screen is a button for instructing the start of product registration. A customer operates the registration start button BT30 when starting product registration. The buttons BT35 to BT37 on the bottom left of the screen are buttons for switching the display language between English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively.

[0057] Fig. 7(B) shows the display contents of the registration screen in a state where the second item (daifuku mochi) has been registered. When the registration start button BT30 is operated on the registration start screen shown in Fig. 7(A), the POS terminal 20-3 displays a registration screen in a state where no items have been registered yet, but for the sake of convenience, Fig. 7(B) shows the registration screen after the items (tea and daifuku mochi) have already been registered.

[0058] In FIG. 7(B), image GA01 at the bottom left of the screen indicates the state of the other terminal (POS terminal 20-1) (specifically, that it is in normal mode). Image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen indicates the state of the other terminal (POS terminal 20-2) (specifically, that it is in normal mode). The checkout button BT32 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for instructing the end of product registration. The customer operates the checkout button BT32 after product registration is complete. The store clerk call button BT33 is a button for calling a store clerk. The customer operates the store clerk call button BT33 when calling a store clerk (for example, when the customer needs the support of a store clerk).

[0059] As described above, the buttons BT35 to BT37 are buttons for switching the display language to English, Chinese, and Korean, respectively. The "vegetable" button BT38 is a button for displaying each preset key for vegetables (see FIG. 9).

[0060] Fig. 8(A) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (payment method selection screen) displayed when starting the settlement process. For example, when the checkout button BT32 is operated on the registration screen (see Fig. 7(B)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the payment method selection screen as shown in Fig. 8(A).

[0061] Fig. 8(B) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when starting a cash payment. For example, when cash is operated on the payment method selection screen (see Fig. 8(A)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the deposit screen as shown in Fig. 8(B).

[0062] Fig. 8(C) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (deposit screen) displayed when the deposit amount is decided. For example, when the POS terminal 20-3 receives cash (deposit) equal to or greater than the payment amount (purchase amount), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the deposit screen as shown in Fig. 8(C).

[0063] Fig. 8(D) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (change screen) displayed when dispensing change. For example, when the END (receipt) button BT40 is operated on the deposit screen (Fig. 8(C)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the change screen as shown in Fig. 8(D).

[0064] Fig. 8(E) shows the display contents of the settlement screen (receipt screen) displayed when the change is removed. For example, the POS terminal 20-3 displays a receipt screen as shown in Fig. 8(E) when the change is removed from the outlet of the change dispenser 209. 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 a customer's hand). Fig. 8(F) shows the pause screen displayed in pause mode (pause state).

[0065] After displaying the receipt screen (FIG. 8(E)), the POS terminal 20-3 displays the registration start screen (FIG. 7(A)). For example, the POS terminal 20-3 displays the registration start screen after the receipt is removed from the issuing port of the printing unit 213. The POS terminal 20 may be equipped with a sensor capable of recognizing that the receipt has been removed from the issuing port. Also, if no change is to be made, the screen may transition from the deposit screen (FIG. 8(C)) to the receipt screen (FIG. 8(E)) without displaying the change screen (FIG. 8(D)).

[0066] (Display example of POS terminal 20 in normal mode) 9 to 14 are display examples of the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 9(A), Fig. 10(A), Fig. 11(A), Fig. 12(A), Fig. 13(A), and Fig. 14(A) are all display examples of the store clerk display unit 210 of the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode. Fig. 9(B), Fig. 10(B), Fig. 11(B), Fig. 12(B), Fig. 13(B), and Fig. 14(B) are all display examples of the customer display unit 205 of the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode.

[0067] 9(A) shows the display contents of the initial state registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210. In the following explanation, unless otherwise specified, the initial state refers to a state in which no processing is progressing, for example, a state in which no products have been registered yet, and no payment (settlement) has been made yet (no payment method has been selected, no cash has been inserted, no gift certificates have been registered, etc.), and no customer has been made yet (no membership card has been read, etc.).

[0068] In Fig. 9(A), the tab area T1 in the upper right corner of the screen is a tab corresponding to each display content (display screen). The POS terminal 20-1 can interrupt the registration process of the customer (the reason for interruption is to return to the store to add an item to be purchased, etc.) and perform the registration process of the next customer. In other words, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a new registration screen for the next customer while retaining (storing) the display content (registration content) of the registration screen for the customer based on the operation of the store clerk. In the example shown in Fig. 9(A), there is one tab (tab area T1), but the POS terminal 20-1 displays tabs (tab areas T1, T2, T3, ...) in accordance with the number of registration screens (number of customers) in progress, and switches the registration screen to be enabled (active) according to the operation (pressing) of the tab.

[0069] In tab area T1, information that distinguishes the tab from other tabs (the number "1" in the example of FIG. 9(A)) is displayed. In addition, tab area T1 is provided with a display field HR01 that displays the amount of money deposited by the customer. In addition to the above, various other information (described later) is also displayed in tab area T1, although this is not shown in the example shown in FIG. 9(A).

[0070] An image GA02 at the bottom left of the screen indicates the state of the other terminal (the POS terminal 20-2) (specifically, the normal mode). An image GA03 at the bottom left of the screen indicates the state of the other terminal (the POS terminal 20-3) (specifically, the full self mode).

[0071] Fig. 9(B) shows the initial display contents on the customer display unit 205. That is, when the POS terminal 20-1 displays the registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 9(A), the POS terminal 20-1 displays the small screen (small window) SG01 on the customer display unit 205, superimposed on the settlement screen (deposit screen), as shown in Fig. 9(B).

[0072] The small screen SG01 allows the customer to select a payment method. The customer selects either cash, credit, or electronic money as the payment method on the small screen SG01. If the customer desires cash as the payment method, he / she may insert cash (a deposit) before selecting cash as the payment method on the small screen SG01. When any payment method is selected on the small screen SG01, the POS terminal 20-1 clears the small screen SG01. Also, when cash is inserted before a payment method is selected on the small screen SG01, the POS terminal 20-1 processes it as if cash was selected as the payment method, and clears the small screen SG01.

[0073] When a can of beer is registered by a store clerk while the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying the registration screen of FIG. 9(A) on the store clerk display unit 210, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen as shown in FIG. 10(A) on the store clerk display unit 210.

[0074] 10A, a subtotal button BT10 at the bottom right of the screen is a button for instructing the end of product registration. After completing product registration, the store clerk operates (touches) the subtotal button BT10.

[0075] The 20-2 register button BT12 is a button for designating the 20-2 register (POS terminal 20-2). When the store clerk designates the POS terminal 20-2 as the terminal to which registration information is to be transmitted, the clerk operates the 20-2 register button BT12. "(Normal)" displayed on the 20-2 register button BT12 indicates that the operation mode of the POS terminal 20-2 corresponding to the 20-2 register button BT12 is the normal mode.

[0076] The 20-3 register button BT13 is a button for designating the 20-3 register (POS terminal 20-3). When the store clerk designates the POS terminal 20-3 as the terminal to which registration information is to be transmitted, the clerk operates the 20-3 register button BT13. "(Full self-service mode)" displayed on the 20-3 register button BT13 indicates that the operation mode of the POS terminal 20-3 corresponding to the 20-3 register button BT13 is the full self-service mode.

[0077] The receipt button BT15 is a button for issuing a receipt in the printing unit 213. A store clerk operates the receipt button BT15 when executing a process on the POS terminal 20 that read the receipt (the POS terminal 20 from which the customer has read the receipt).

[0078] In addition, when comparing the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode with the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode as the POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be sent, the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode is more preferable as the destination of the registration information than the POS terminal 20 in the normal mode. The POS terminal 20 in the normal mode is basically operated by a store clerk (see FIG. 5(A)), so there is a continuous process (e.g., registration process, customer service, etc.) and it is highly likely that the registration information cannot be processed immediately even if it is sent, and even if it is free (even if there is neither a store clerk nor a customer), it is basically preferable to keep it free in order to immediately respond to customers who request the support of a store clerk, whereas the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode can transmit the registration information and process it immediately if there is no customer, and even if there is a customer, the above-mentioned problem is unlikely to occur because the process can be simply performed in order.

[0079] In view of the above, the clerk is notified as to whether or not the POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be sent is preferable, or which of the multiple destinations to which the registration information is to be sent is more preferable. As an example, in FIG. 10(A), the outline of the 20-3 register button BT13 corresponding to the POS terminal 20-3 in the full self-service mode, which is a relatively preferable destination to which the registration information is to be sent, is shown by a solid line, and the outline of the 20-2 register button BT12 corresponding to the POS terminal 20-2 in the normal mode, which is a relatively unpreferable destination to which the registration information is to be sent, is shown by a broken line. Note that the above-mentioned notification by the outline is only an example, and the notification mode is not limited as long as the clerk can recognize whether or not the POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be sent is preferable, or which of the multiple destinations to which the registration information is to be sent is more preferable. For example, the background color of the button for the relatively unpreferable one may be grayed out, or a penalty mark or a diagonal line may be added to the entire button. In addition, the display size, shape, and display position of the button may be varied depending on whether or not it is desirable as a POS terminal 20 to which the registration information is to be sent, and some information (such as a badge-like image saying "Preferred" or "Recommended") may be added to the button.

[0080] When the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen as shown in Fig. 10(A) on the store clerk display unit 210, it displays the small screen SG01 superimposed on the settlement screen (deposit screen) as shown in Fig. 10(B) on the customer display unit 205. Note that in the settlement screen (deposit screen) of Fig. 9(B), no products were registered so the total amount was 0 yen, but in the settlement screen (deposit screen) of Fig. 10(B), a can of beer costing 215 yen has been registered so the total amount is 215.

[0081] When a customer deposits 500 yen while the registration screen of FIG. 10(A) is being displayed on the store clerk display unit 210, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen such as that shown in FIG. 11(A) on the store clerk display unit 210.

[0082] Since the customer has inserted 500 yen, the display field HR01 in the upper right corner of the screen in Fig. 11(A) shows 500. Also, since the customer has inserted 500 yen, the payment will be settled at the customer's own terminal (POS terminal 20-1), so the buttons (20-2 register button BT12, 20-3 register button BT13, and bill button BT15) used for settling at other terminals (POS terminal 20-2, POS terminal 20-3) are not displayed (are erased).

[0083] When the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen as shown in Fig. 11(A) on the store clerk display unit 210, it displays a settlement screen (deposit screen) as shown in Fig. 11(B) on the customer display unit 205. Note that the small screen SG01 is cleared because the customer has inserted 500 yen.

[0084] When the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying the registration screen of Fig. 11(A) on the clerk display unit 210, and the clerk registers the second product (asparagus) and the third product (seaweed lunch box) and the customer inserts an additional 500 yen, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen as shown in Fig. 12(A) on the clerk display unit 210. As the customer has inserted an additional 500 yen, 1000 is displayed in the display field HR01 in the upper right corner of the screen in Fig. 12(A).

[0085] When the POS terminal 20-1 displays a registration screen such as that shown in FIG. 12(A) on the store clerk display unit 210, it displays a settlement screen (deposit screen) such as that shown in FIG.

[0086] When the POS terminal 20-1 operates the subtotal button BT10 while the registration screen of Fig. 12(A) is displayed on the clerk display unit 210, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a small screen (small window) SG02 superimposed on the registration screen as shown in Fig. 13(A) on the clerk display unit 210, and displays a settlement screen (deposit screen) as shown in Fig. 13(B) on the customer display unit 205. The small screen SG02 notifies the clerk of settlement-related information (total amount, amount deposited in the device (deposit amount)).

[0087] When the customer operates the finish (receipt) button BT40 while the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying the settlement screen (deposit screen) of Figure 13 (B) on the customer display unit 205, the POS terminal 20-1 displays the message screen MG1 superimposed on the registration screen as shown in Figure 14 (A) on the clerk display unit 210, and displays the settlement screen (change screen) as shown in Figure 14 (B) on the customer display unit 205.

[0088] The message screen MG1 notifies the store clerk about the change. The POS terminal 20-1 erases the message screen MG1 displayed superimposed on the registration screen without the operation of the store clerk (for example, automatically after a predetermined time has passed). The POS terminal 20-1 may erase the message screen MG1 displayed superimposed on the registration screen in response to the operation of the store clerk (such as touching the message screen MG1).

[0089] Although not shown in Figures 14 and onwards, the POS terminal 20-1 displays a settlement screen similar to that shown in Figure 8(E) and onwards on the customer display unit 205, and displays a message corresponding to the settlement screen on the store clerk display unit 210.

[0090] (Operation after mode switching) Next, the operation after the mode switching operation will be described. The mode switching button 211a (see FIG. 3(B)) is a hardware key provided on the key operation unit 211, so the store clerk can operate it no matter what situation (state) the POS terminal 20 is in (in extreme terms, the button can be pressed even if the POS terminal 20 is not turned on or is broken). In other words, the mode switching operation can be performed on the POS terminal 20 under various circumstances. In other words, the situation of the POS terminal 20 when the mode switching operation is performed is various.

[0091] For the above reasons, the POS terminal 20 operates in accordance with the situation at the time of the mode switching operation (various situations in which the terminal is operating normally, not the extreme cases described above). In other words, the POS terminal 20 generally switches the operation mode when the mode switching operation is performed (although it has been explained that the operation mode is basically switched from the normal mode to the full self-service mode and vice versa every time the mode switching button 211a is operated), but more specifically, the POS terminal 20 differs in its behavior, including whether or not to switch the operation mode, depending on the situation (state) in which the mode switching operation is performed. In other words, the POS terminal 20 controls the operation after the mode switching operation depending on the situation (state) at the time of the mode switching operation. A specific example will be given below for explanation.

[0092] (Initial state) When the mode switching button 211a is operated in the initial state, the POS terminal 20-1 in the normal mode executes a mode switching process for switching the operation mode from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. The mode switching process is also called a mode transition process. Therefore, in other words, when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the initial state, the POS terminal 20-1 in the normal mode executes a mode transition process for transitioning the operation mode from the normal mode to the full self-service mode.

[0093] As described above, the initial state is a state in which no products have been registered, and no payment (settlement) has been made (no payment method has been selected, no cash has been inserted, no gift certificates have been registered, etc.), and no customer has been made (no membership card has been read, etc.). In other words, the initial state is a state in which no products have been registered, no cash has been inserted, no payment type has been selected, no gift certificates have been registered, and no customer information has been obtained.

[0094] For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying the initial registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 9(A), the POS terminal 20-1 switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes mode switching processing) and displays the registration start screen on the customer display unit 205 as shown in FIG. 7(A).

[0095] (Cash only inserted) When the mode switch button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a cash-only deposit state (no product registered, cash deposited, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, no customer information acquired), the terminal ejects the deposited cash (executes the deposit information cancellation process) and returns to the initial state.

[0096] Fig. 15(A) is a display example of the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 15(A) shows a registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in a state where only cash has been inserted (a product has not been registered, cash has been inserted (15 yen has been inserted in Fig. 15(A)), a payment type has not been selected, gift certificates have not been registered, and customer information has not been acquired).

[0097] Fig. 15(B) is a display example of the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 15(B) shows a state in which a message screen MG1 (see Fig. 14(B)) is superimposed on the registration screen (see Fig. 9(A)) on the store clerk display unit 210 in the initial state.

[0098] For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen for a state in which only cash has been inserted on the clerk display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 15(A), the POS terminal 20-1 dispenses the inserted cash (and executes the deposit information cancellation process) and displays the registration screen for the initial state with the message screen MG1 superimposed on it on the clerk display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 15(B). Note that since the cash has been dispensed, 0 is displayed in the display field HR01 of the tab area T1 in Fig. 15(B).

[0099] (Payment type selected alone) When the mode switch button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a state where only a payment type has been selected (no product registered, no cash inserted, payment type selected, gift certificates not registered, and customer information not acquired), the terminal cancels the selected payment type (executes a payment type information cancellation process) and returns to its initial state.

[0100] Fig. 16(A) is a display example of the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 16(A) shows a registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in a state where only a payment type has been selected (no product registered, no cash inserted, payment type selected ("credit" has been selected in Fig. 16(A)), no gift certificates registered, and no customer information acquired). Icon I1 in tab area T1 indicates that the payment type "credit" has been selected.

[0101] Fig. 16(B) is a display example of the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 16(B) shows a state in which a message screen MG2 is superimposed on the registration screen (see Fig. 9(A)) on the store clerk display unit 210 in the initial state.

[0102] The message screen MG2 notifies the store clerk about the payment type (specifically, that the selection of the payment type has been canceled). The POS terminal 20 erases the message screen MG2 displayed superimposed on the registration screen without the operation of the store clerk (for example, automatically after a predetermined time has passed). The POS terminal 20 may erase the message screen MG2 displayed superimposed on the registration screen in response to the operation of the store clerk (such as touching the message screen MG2).

[0103] For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen for selecting only the payment type on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 16(A), the selected payment type is cancelled (the payment type information cancellation process is executed) and the initial registration screen with the message screen MG2 superimposed is displayed on the store clerk display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 16(B). Note that since the payment type has been cancelled, the icon I1 in the tab area T1 is erased in Fig. 16(B).

[0104] (Voucher registration only) When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a state where only gift certificates are registered (no product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, gift certificates registered, no customer information acquired), the terminal cancels the registered gift certificates (executes the gift certificate information cancellation process) and returns to its initial state.

[0105] For example, in normal mode, when the POS terminal 20-1 is displaying a registration screen for registering gift certificates only on the store clerk display unit 210 (not shown), if the mode switching button 211a is operated, the registered gift certificates are cancelled (a gift certificate information cancellation process is executed), and, although not shown, the store clerk display unit 210 displays an initial registration screen with a superimposed message screen informing the store clerk about the gift certificates (specifically, that the registration of the gift certificates has been cancelled).

[0106] (Product registration only) When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a product registration only state (product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, no customer information acquired), the product information is cancelled (product information cancellation process is executed) and the terminal returns to its initial state.

[0107] For example, as shown in FIG. 10(A), when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen for product registration only on the store clerk display unit 210, the POS terminal 20-1 cancels the registered product (executes the product information cancellation process) and, although not shown in the figure, displays on the store clerk display unit 210 an initial registration screen with a superimposed message screen informing the store clerk about the product (specifically, that the product registration has been cancelled).

[0108] (Customer information acquisition only) When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a state where customer information has only been acquired (no product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, and customer information acquired), the terminal takes over the acquired customer information (executes customer information transfer processing) and switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes mode switching processing).

[0109] Fig. 17(A) is an example of a display on the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 17(A) shows a registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in a state where customer information has only been acquired (no product registered, no cash inserted, no payment type selected, no gift certificates registered, and customer information has been acquired (membership card information has been acquired in Fig. 17(A))). Icon I2 in tab area T1 indicates that membership card information has been acquired.

[0110] Fig. 17(B) is a display example on the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode. Specifically, Fig. 17(B) shows the state in which "member number XXX" is displayed on the registration start screen (see Fig. 7(A)) on the customer side display unit 205. "Member number XXX" is the carried-over customer information (specifically, information on the member card).

[0111] For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen in a state where only customer information is acquired on the clerk display unit 210 as shown in Fig. 17(A), the POS terminal 20-1 takes over the acquired customer information (membership number, which is information on the membership card) (executes customer information taking over process), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes mode switching process), and displays a registration start screen showing "membership number XXX" on the customer display unit 205 as shown in Fig. 17(B). Note that the customer information may also be taken over (displayed) on the screens following the registration start screen (the registration screen in Fig. 7(B) and all or part of each settlement screen in Figs. 8(A) to 8(E)).

[0112] (Cash-in product registration status) When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a cash-in product registration state (product registered, cash inserted, payment type not selected, gift certificates not registered, customer information not acquired), the terminal takes over the deposit information and product information (executes the deposit information transfer process and the product information transfer process) and switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process).

[0113] Fig. 18(A) is a display example of the POS terminal 20 in normal mode. Specifically, Fig. 18(A) shows a registration screen on the store clerk display unit 210 in a cash-inserted product registration state (product registered (in Fig. 18(A) a can of beer has been registered), cash has been inserted (in Fig. 18(A) 15 yen has been inserted), payment type not selected, gift certificate not registered, customer information not acquired).

[0114] Fig. 18(B) is a display example on the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode. Specifically, Fig. 18(B) shows the customer-side display unit 205 displaying the registration information for a can of beer and "Deposit 15 yen" on the registration screen (see Fig. 7(B)). The registration information for a can of beer is the carried-over product information. "Deposit 15 yen" is the carried-over deposit information.

[0115] For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in the normal mode displays the registration screen of the cash-inserted product registration status on the clerk-side display unit 210 as shown in FIG. 18(A), the POS terminal 20-1 takes over the deposited cash information (15 yen) and the registered product information (information on canned beer) (executes the deposit information takeover process and the product information takeover process), switches from the normal mode to the full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process), and displays the registration information of the canned beer and the "deposit of 15 yen" on the customer-side display unit 205 as shown in FIG. 18(B). Note that the customer information may be taken over (displayed) on the screens following the registration screen. Also, since the "deposit of 15 yen" already exists (since cash is treated as being selected), the payment method selection screen (see FIG. 8(A)) may not be displayed.

[0116] (Cash-in gift certificate registration status) When the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20 is in a cash-deposit / gift-certificate registration state (product not registered, cash deposited, payment type not selected, gift certificates registered, customer information not acquired), the terminal takes over the deposit information and gift certificate information (executes the deposit information transfer process and the gift certificate information transfer process) and switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process).

[0117] For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated while the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is displaying a registration screen showing the cash-inserted gift certificate registration status on the clerk display unit 210 (not shown), the POS terminal 20-1 takes over the deposited cash information and the registered gift certificate information (executes the deposit information transfer process and the gift certificate information transfer process), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process), and displays a registration screen showing the gift certificate information and the deposit on the customer display unit 205 (also not shown).

[0118] (Customer detection related) The POS terminal 20 may be provided with a sensor (e.g., a camera that takes pictures of the customer side) capable of detecting whether or not a customer is present around the terminal (particularly on the customer side). Alternatively, a sensor (e.g., a camera that takes pictures of the customer side) capable of detecting whether or not a customer is present around the POS terminal 20 (particularly on the customer side) may be provided on the ceiling, wall, etc. In the case where the POS terminal 20 is configured to be capable of detecting whether or not a customer is present around the terminal (particularly on the customer side), the POS terminal 20 may differ in behavior, including whether or not to switch the operation mode, depending on whether or not a customer is present around the terminal when the mode switching button 211a is operated.

[0119] In addition, instead of or in addition to the above-mentioned sensor-based method, the POS terminal 20 may determine whether or not there is a customer around the terminal based on whether or not it has been operated for a predetermined time (whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the last time it was operated) (based on either one or both).

[0120] (Customer detection only) When the POS terminal 20-1 in normal mode is in a customer detection only state (a state in which a customer is detected, a product is not registered, cash is not inserted, a payment type is not selected, a gift certificate is not registered, and customer information is not acquired), if the mode switching button 211a is operated, the POS terminal 20-1 simply switches from the normal mode to the full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process) and displays a registration start screen on the customer side display unit 205. Note that this state is the initial state (a state in which a product is not registered, cash is not inserted, a payment type is not selected, a gift certificate is not registered, and customer information is not acquired), but for convenience of explanation, it is called the customer detection only state.

[0121] (Cash insertion customer detection status) When the POS terminal 20 is in a cash deposit customer detection state (customer detected, product not registered, cash deposited, payment type not selected, gift certificate not registered, customer information not acquired), if the mode switching button 211a is operated, the terminal takes over the deposit information (executes the deposit information taking over process), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes the mode switching process), and displays a registration screen showing the deposit amount on the customer display unit 205.

[0122] (Product registration customer detection status) When the POS terminal 20 is in a product registration customer detection state (customer detected, product registered, cash not inserted, payment type not selected, gift certificate not registered, customer information not acquired) and the mode switching button 211a is operated, the POS terminal 20 takes over the product information (executes product information taking over process), switches from normal mode to full self-service mode (executes mode switching process), and displays a registration screen showing the product information on the customer side display unit 205.

[0123] Fig. 19 is an explanatory diagram for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. Specifically, Fig. 19 summarizes various behaviors (operations) after a mode switching operation from the normal mode to the full self-service mode in each state, including each state exemplified above (initial state, cash insertion only state, payment type selection only state, gift certificate registration only state, product registration only state, customer information acquisition only state, cash insertion product registration state, cash insertion gift certificate registration state, customer detection only state, cash insertion customer detection state, product registration customer detection state).

[0124] As shown in the upper right of Figure 19, when the operating mode is switched from normal mode to full self-service mode, registration on the customer side, which was previously prohibited, is permitted, the transmission of registration information to other terminals, which was previously permitted, is prohibited, and the issuance of payment tickets, which was previously permitted, is prohibited.

[0125] In the above, the display field HR01 (i.e., the deposit amount), icon I1 (i.e., the payment type "credit" has been selected), and icon I2 (i.e., the membership card information has been obtained) have been described as specific examples of information displayed in tab area T1, but tab area T1 may also display, for example, the selection of a payment type other than "credit" or the registration of a gift certificate. Also, instead of or in addition to the above, tab area T1 may display the fact that a customer has been detected, that the total amount deposited (or the total amount deposited plus the total amount of gift certificates) is equal to or greater than the total amount of merchandise, etc.

[0126] Fig. 20 is an explanatory diagram for explaining processes that may be executed after a mode switching operation. Specifically, Fig. 20(A) shows a summary of the processes that are executed according to the state after a mode switching operation. Fig. 20(B) shows a summary of messages that are displayed according to the state after a mode switching operation.

[0127] The "payment type information transfer process" shown in Fig. 20(A) is executed in the "payment related + customer detection related" of Fig. 19. Specifically, it is executed when the "payment type selection customer detection state (not shown)" is in (b) + (e). The "customer information cancellation process" will be described later.

[0128] As shown in Figures 20(A) and 20(B), processes and messages correspond to each other. For example, the message on message screen MG1 in Figure 15(B) corresponds to the "deposit cancellation message" shown in Figure 20(B) and is displayed when the "deposit information cancellation process" shown in Figure 20(A) is performed. Also, for example, the message on message screen MG2 in Figure 16(B) corresponds to the "payment type cancellation message" shown in Figure 20(B) and is displayed when the "payment type information cancellation process" shown in Figure 20(A) is performed.

[0129] (Example of operation of POS terminal 20) Fig. 21(A) is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the POS terminal 20. Specifically, the flowchart in Fig. 21(A) shows an example of the operation when a mode switching operation is performed on the POS terminal 20-1 in the normal mode. That is, the flowchart in Fig. 21(A) starts when the POS terminal 20-1 in the normal mode detects an operation of the mode switching button 211a.

[0130] Step S100: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the registration status of the product. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 judges whether the product is registered or not. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (judgment result) in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0131] Step S110: The POS terminal 20-1 checks whether or not cash has been inserted. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not cash has been inserted. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (judgment result) in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0132] Step S120: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the selection of the payment type (payment method). That is, the POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not a payment type has been selected. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (judgment result) in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0133] Step S130: The POS terminal 20-1 checks the registration status of the coupon (coupon, etc.). That is, the POS terminal 20-1 judges whether the coupon is registered or not. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (judgment result) in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0134] Step S140: The POS terminal 20-1 checks whether or not customer information (membership number, etc.) has been acquired. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 determines whether or not customer information has been acquired. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (determination result) in the RAM 203, etc.

[0135] Step S150: The POS terminal 20-1 checks whether a customer has been detected. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 judges whether a customer has been detected. The POS terminal 20-1 stores (temporarily stores) the check result (judgment result) in the RAM 203 or the like.

[0136] Step S160: The POS terminal 20-1 executes an operation (see FIG. 19) according to the above-mentioned confirmation result, and then ends the flow chart of FIG. 21(A).

[0137] In Fig. 21(A), the order of confirmation is the product registration status, the cash insertion status, the payment type selection status, the gift certificate registration status, the customer information acquisition status, and the customer detection status, but the order of confirmation is not limited to the order shown in Fig. 21(A). In other words, any status may be confirmed first. In Fig. 21(A), the product registration status, the cash insertion status, the payment type selection status, the gift certificate registration status, the customer information acquisition status, and the customer detection status are confirmed, but if the operation to be processed is confirmed, the subsequent confirmation processes may be omitted.

[0138] The processes (steps S160A, S160B, S160C, and S160D) shown in the respective flowcharts of Figures 21(B), 21(C), 22(A), and 22(B) are examples of the process (operation according to the confirmation result) of step S160 in Figure 21(A). Also, the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 22(C) is a modified example of the process (step S160B) shown in the flowchart of Figure 21(C).

[0139] (Initial state) The flowchart in FIG. 21B shows, as an example of step S160 in FIG. 21A, a process (step S160A) according to the confirmation result (initial state) when the confirmation result is the initial state.

[0140] Step S170A: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode switching process. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 switches from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. Then, the process (step S160A) of the flowchart in FIG. 21B ends.

[0141] As described above, as shown in FIG. 21(B), if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the initial state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the state is the initial state), the mode switching process is executed and the mode is switched to full self mode.

[0142] (When only cash is inserted) The flowchart in FIG. 21(C) shows, as an example of step S160 in FIG. 21(A), a process (step S160B) according to the confirmation result (cash insertion only state) when the confirmation result indicates a cash insertion only state.

[0143] Step S161B: The POS terminal 20-1 executes the deposit information cancellation process. Step S162B: The POS terminal 20-1 executes the deposit cancellation message.

[0144] Step S163B: The POS terminal 20-1 judges whether the cash has been removed. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 judges whether the cash dispensed in the deposit information cancellation process has been removed by a sensor or the like. If the cash has not been removed, the process is repeated, and if the cash has been removed, the process (step S160B) of the flowchart in FIG. 21(C) ends.

[0145] As shown in Fig. 21(C) above, if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the cash insertion only state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the state is the cash insertion only state), the mode switching process is not executed and the mode does not switch to the full self-service mode, but the deposit information cancellation process is executed and the mode returns to the initial state. Therefore, if the mode switching operation is performed again, the mode switching process is executed and the mode switches to the full self-service mode (see Fig. 21(B)).

[0146] (In case of single product registration) The flowchart in FIG. 22A shows, as an example of step S160 in FIG. 21A, a process (step S160C) according to the confirmation result (product registration only state) when the confirmation result indicates the product registration only state.

[0147] Step S161C: The POS terminal 20-1 executes the product information cancellation process. Step S162C: The POS terminal 20-1 displays a product cancellation message, and the process (step S160C) of the flowchart in FIG.

[0148] As shown in Fig. 22(A) above, if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the product registration only state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the state is the product registration only state), the mode switching process is not executed and the mode does not switch to the full self mode, but the product information cancellation process is executed and the mode returns to the initial state. Therefore, if the mode switching operation is performed again, the mode switching process is executed and the mode switches to the full self mode (see Fig. 21(B)).

[0149] (If cash-on-delivery item is registered) The flowchart in FIG. 22(B) shows, as an example of step S160 in FIG. 21(A), a process (step S160D) according to the confirmation result (cash-deposited product registration status) when the confirmation result indicates a cash-deposited product registration status.

[0150] Step S161D: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a deposit information transfer process and a product information transfer process. Step S162D: The POS terminal 20-1 displays a payment transfer message and a product transfer message.

[0151] Step S170D: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode switching process. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 switches from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. Then, the process (step S160D) of the flowchart in FIG. 22B ends.

[0152] As shown in Fig. 22(B) above, if the state at the time of mode switching operation is the cash-in product registration state (if the mode switching operation is performed when the cash-in product registration state), the mode switching process is executed and the mode is switched to the full self-service mode. In addition, the deposit information handover process and the product information handover process are executed, so that the deposit information and the product information are carried over to the full self-service mode.

[0153] It has been explained that after the mode switching operation, the initial state is restored but the mode is not switched (for example, in the case of only cash insertion state in FIG. 21(C) or only product registration state in FIG. 22(A)), the mode can be switched by performing the mode switching operation again after returning to the initial state. In other words, it has been explained that after the series of processes starting from step S100 in FIG. 21(A) is completed, the mode switching operation can be performed again as necessary. Alternatively, the mode may be switched during the series of processes described above.

[0154] (Select whether or not you want to switch modes from the screen) The flowchart in Fig. 22C is a modification of the process (step S160B) shown in the flowchart in Fig. 21C. Specifically, it shows the process after step S163B (YES) in the flowchart in Fig. 21C.

[0155] Step S164B: Following step S163B (YES), the POS terminal 20-1 displays a small screen (not shown; "Yes" and "No" buttons are provided) for the store clerk to decide whether or not to switch modes.

[0156] Step S165B: The POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the "No" button on the small screen has been operated. In other words, it judges whether or not the store clerk has expressed an intention not to switch the mode. If the "No" button has been operated, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 22(C) ends. If the "No" button has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S166B.

[0157] Step S166B: The POS terminal 20-1 judges whether or not the "Yes" button on the small screen has been operated. In other words, it judges whether or not the store clerk has expressed an intention to switch modes. If the "Yes" button has been operated, the process proceeds to step S170B. If the "Yes" button has not been operated, the process returns to step S166B.

[0158] Step S170B: The POS terminal 20-1 executes a mode switching process. That is, the POS terminal 20-1 switches from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. Then, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 22(C) ends.

[0159] According to the example shown in Fig. 22(C), the mode is switched as necessary during a series of processes without the need to perform a mode switching operation again. Note that Fig. 22(C) is an example of a state where only cash is inserted, but the same applies to a state where only product registration is performed. Also, when switching from the full self-service mode to the normal mode (see Fig. 23) or when using other criteria (processing by the store clerk or the customer, etc.) (see Figs. 24 and 25), the mode may be switched as necessary during a series of processes.

[0160] In the example shown in Fig. 22(C), the mode is switched as necessary (according to the selection of the store clerk), but the mode may be switched automatically (not depending on the selection of the store clerk). In other words, step S170B may always be executed after step S163B (YES). The same applies to the case where only a product is registered, when switching from the full self-service mode to the normal mode (see Fig. 23), or when using other criteria (processing by the store clerk or the customer, etc.) (see Figs. 24 and 25).

[0161] Fig. 23 is an explanatory diagram for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation from the full self mode to the normal mode. While Fig. 19 above summarizes the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a when the current operation mode is the normal mode, Fig. 23 summarizes the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a when the current operation mode is the full self mode.

[0162] As shown in the upper right corner of Figure 23, when the operating mode is switched from full self-service mode to normal mode, registration on the customer side, which was permitted, is prohibited, the transmission of registration information to other terminals, which was prohibited, is permitted, and the issuance of payment tickets, which was prohibited, is permitted.

[0163] As shown in Fig. 23, when the current operating mode is the full self mode, the behavior when the situation is "payment-related + product-related", "payment-related + customer detection-related", "product-related + customer detection-related", or "multiple payment-related" is different from the behavior when the current operating mode is the normal mode shown in Fig. 19. In other words, when the current operating mode is the full self mode, the information is inherited and the mode is switched to the full self mode (see Fig. 19), but when the current operating mode is the normal mode, the information is retained and the mode is not switched to the normal mode (see Fig. 23).

[0164] As shown outside the table in FIG. 23, when the conditions are "payment-related + product-related", "payment-related + customer detection-related", "product-related + customer detection-related", or "multiple payment-related", the information may be inherited and the mode may be switched to normal. For example, a small screen (not shown, with "Yes" and "No" buttons) may be displayed that allows the store clerk to decide whether or not to switch modes, and the information may be inherited and the mode may be switched to normal according to the selection of the store clerk (indication of the store clerk's intention) (when the "Yes" button is operated). Also, the information may be inherited and the mode may be switched to normal automatically (irrespective of the selection of the store clerk).

[0165] Note that taking over and keeping are common in that they are not canceled. For example, taking over and keeping inserted cash are common in that the cash is not discharged, and taking over and keeping a selected payment type are common in that the payment type is not canceled. Therefore, each process corresponding to "keeping information" in FIG. 23 (for example, each process named "XX information keeping process") is the same as or similar to the "XX information taking over process" in FIG. 20(A) (at most the difference is whether the mode is switched or not).

[0166] (Customer information cancellation process) In the above, it has been described that when customer information is acquired (for example, when customer information is acquired only) at the time of operating the mode switching button 211a, the acquired customer information is carried over (see FIG. 19, FIG. 23, etc.), but the acquired customer information may be cancelled. That is, when customer information has already been acquired at the time of the mode switching operation, the POS terminal 20 may execute a customer information cancellation process instead of the customer information transfer process. For example, when customer information has already been acquired at the time of the mode switching operation, the POS terminal 20 may display a small screen (not shown; "take over" button and "cancel" button are arranged) that allows the store clerk to decide whether to take over or cancel the acquired customer information, and may take over or cancel the customer information according to the store clerk's intention. When customer information is cancelled (when customer information cancellation process is executed), the mode may be switched or not (see FIG. 22(C)).

[0167] As described above, the POS terminal 20 changes its behavior (operation) after the mode switching button 211a is operated depending on the operating mode, cash insertion status, payment type selection status, gift certificate registration status, product registration status, customer information acquisition status, and customer detection status at the time of the operation (see Figures 19, 23, etc.).

[0168] In addition, when the mode switching button 211a is operated, the POS terminal 20 executes, depending on the situation, other processes different from the mode switching process (e.g., deposit information cancellation process, deposit information transfer process, payment type information cancellation process, payment type information transfer process, gift certificate information cancellation process, gift certificate information transfer process, product information cancellation process, product information transfer process, customer information cancellation process, customer information transfer process) instead of or in addition to the mode switching process that should normally be performed by operating the mode switching button 211a.

[0169] (Other examples) FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 are explanatory diagrams for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation. Previously, FIG. 19 and FIG. 23 explained that the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a differs depending on the state of cash insertion, the state of payment type selection, the state of coupon registration, the state of product registration, the state of customer information acquisition, and the state of customer detection at the time of the operation, but FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 explain that the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a differs depending on the state of the operation of the store clerk side, the operation of the customer side, etc. at the time of the operation. Specifically, FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation from the normal mode to the full self-service mode. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram for explaining various operations after a mode switching operation from the full self-service mode to the normal mode.

[0170] The "state where only store clerk operation, etc. is performed" in Figure 24 (similar to Figure 25) is, for example, a state where store clerk operation, etc. is performed, customer operation, etc. is not performed, and no customer is detected. The "state where only customer operation, etc. is performed" is, for example, a state where no store clerk operation, etc. is performed, customer operation, etc. is performed, and no customer is detected. The "state where only customer detection, etc. is performed" is, for example, a state where no store clerk operation, etc. is performed, no customer operation, etc. is performed, and a customer is detected.

[0171] Operation by the store clerk, etc., is present means that there is operation, etc., on the store clerk's side (see Figure 2, etc.) (for example, one or more of operation of the store clerk's display unit 210, operation of the key operation unit (excluding the mode switching button 211a), operation of the store clerk's scanner unit 212, etc.).

[0172] Operation on the customer side, etc., refers to a state in which there is operation on the customer side (see Figure 2, etc.) (for example, one or more of operation of the customer side display unit 205, operation of the customer side scanner unit 206, operation of the card payment unit 208, operation of the change machine 209, etc.).

[0173] Note that the membership card etc. may be read by the store clerk (store clerk scanner unit 212, etc.) or by the customer (customer scanner unit 206, etc.). In the full self-service mode, the purchased items are generally registered by the customer (customer scanner unit 206, etc.), but may also be registered by the store clerk (store clerk scanner unit 212, etc.) (double scan mode).

[0174] The "both sides operation state" in Figure 24 (similar to Figure 25) is, for example, a state where there is operation on the store clerk side, operation on the customer side, and no customer detection. The "customer detection state for operation on the store clerk side, etc." is, for example, a state where there is operation on the store clerk side, no operation on the customer side, and a customer detection. The "customer detection state for operation on the customer side, etc." is, for example, a state where there is no operation on the store clerk side, operation on the customer side, and a customer detection.

[0175] For example, when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, the POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in Fig. 24 instead of operating as shown in Fig. 19. Also, when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self mode, the POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in Fig. 25 instead of operating as shown in Fig. 23.

[0176] The POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in Fig. 19 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, and may operate as shown in Fig. 25 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode. In other words, when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a may be made different depending on the state of cash insertion, the state of payment type selection, the state of gift certificate registration, the state of product registration, the state of customer information acquisition, and the state of customer detection at the time of the operation, and when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode, the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a may be made different depending on the state of the operation by the store clerk, the state of the operation by the customer, etc. at the time of the operation.

[0177] Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 may operate as shown in Fig. 24 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, and may operate as shown in Fig. 23 when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode. In other words, when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the normal mode, the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a may be made different depending on the state of the operation by the store clerk and the state of the operation by the customer at the time of the operation, and when the mode switching button 211a is operated in the full self-service mode, the behavior (operation) after the operation of the mode switching button 211a may be made different depending on the state of the cash insertion, the state of the payment type selection, the state of the gift certificate registration, the state of the product registration, the state of the customer information acquisition, and the state of the customer detection at the time of the operation.

[0178] In FIG. 19, there are cases where information is cancelled (for example, cash deposited only state, product registration only state, etc.) and cases where information is carried over without being cancelled (cash deposited and product registered state, cash deposited customer detected state, etc.). In cases where information is cancelled, it is basically the case that the information is more likely to be unnecessary than when information is carried over.

[0179] For example, in a state where only cash has been inserted (cash-inserted only state), the possibility that the cash insertion is intended or that the deposit information will actually be used in a transaction immediately is low, so in this state (cash-inserted only state), the deposit information cancellation process is executed to cancel the deposit information. This is particularly true when the mode switching operation is originally performed in the initial state. In other words, when the mode switching operation is performed in a situation where it is believed that there is no deposit and no product registration is in progress (for example, a situation where there are no customers), if only the deposit information remains, it is considered that the deposit information is unlikely to be information that will be taken over and used, so the deposit is discharged and the deposit information is canceled. Also, for example, in a state where only a product has been registered (product registration only state), the possibility that the product registration is intended or that the product information will actually be used in a transaction immediately is low, so in this state (product registration only state), the product information cancellation process is executed to cancel the product information. This is particularly true when the mode switching operation is originally performed in the initial state. In other words, if a mode switching operation is performed in a situation where there are no customers, and in fact only product information remains, it is considered unlikely that the product information will be carried over and used, so that product information is canceled.

[0180] On the other hand, for example, a state in which cash has been inserted and a product has been registered (cash inserted product registration state) is highly likely to be intentional because two operations have been performed, and in this state (cash inserted product registration state), the deposit information transfer process and product information transfer process are executed to transfer the deposit information and product information.

[0181] In FIG. 23, the case where information is cancelled and the case where information is retained without being cancelled are similar to those in FIG.

[0182] Similarly, in Figure 24, there are cases where the information is canceled (for example, when the clerk is operating alone, or when the customer is operating alone) and cases where the information is carried over without being canceled (when both sides are operating), but when the information is canceled, it is basically the case that the information is more likely to be unnecessary than when the information is carried over.

[0183] In other words, when only one of the clerk or customer is performing operations (a state where only clerk operations are performed, a state where only customer operations are performed) there is a lower possibility that the state is the intended state or that the information will actually be used immediately, compared to a state where both the clerk and customer are performing operations (a state where both operations are performed, etc.). Therefore, when only one of the clerk or customer is performing operations (a state where only clerk operations are performed, a state where only customer operations are performed), the information is canceled, and when both the clerk and customer are performing operations (a state where both operations are performed, etc.), the information is inherited.

[0184] In FIG. 25, the case where information is cancelled and the case where information is held without being cancelled are similar to those in FIG.

[0185] In the above description, the focus is on the overall processing in the POS terminal 20, and a state in which no processing is in progress (a state in which no product is registered, no cash is inserted, no payment type is selected, no gift certificates are registered, and no customer information is acquired) is referred to as the initial state, but there may be cases in which the focus is on a portion of the processing and the state is referred to as the initial state. For example, the cash-inserted product registration state (a state in which products are registered, cash is inserted, no payment type is selected, no gift certificates are registered, and no customer information is acquired) cannot be called the initial state when the focus is on the overall processing, but it may be called the initial state when the focus is on the state of selection of the payment type only. Also, it cannot be called the initial state when the focus is on the two states of product registration and payment type selection, but it may be called the initial state when the focus is on the two states of payment type selection and gift certificate registration.

[0186] (Layout) Fig. 26 shows an example of the layout of the POS terminals 20. Specifically, Fig. 26(A) shows a configuration consisting of four POS terminals 20 in the full self-service mode (hereinafter, this configuration is referred to as configuration A). Configuration A is suitable for relatively less busy times.

[0187] When a customer has finished shopping at the sales floor, he or she goes to one of the four POS terminals 20 in full self-service mode, registers the products, and makes the payment. The customer may choose a POS terminal 20 (such as an available POS terminal 20) to carry out the process (registration and payment) at the customer's own discretion, or a store clerk (not shown in FIG. 26(A)) may instruct the customer who has finished shopping. Also, a dedicated attendant terminal (not shown) may be installed, and a display screen of the attendant terminal may guide a customer who has finished shopping to the POS terminal 20 that should carry out the process. In the case of configuration A, four payment paths (traffic paths) are formed, as shown in FIG. 26(A).

[0188] A configuration consisting of a plurality of POS terminals 20 (the above configuration A or the later-described configuration B) may be referred to as an "island."

[0189] Figure 26(B) shows a configuration consisting of two POS terminals 20 in normal mode and two in semi-self-service mode (checkout only mode) (hereinafter, this configuration will be referred to as configuration B). Configuration B is a configuration that is relatively suitable for busy times. In the case of configuration B, as shown in Figure 26(B), two checkout paths are formed (two lanes), but the POS terminal 20 on the upstream side of each checkout path is in normal mode, and the POS terminal 20 on the downstream side of each checkout path is in semi-self-service mode (checkout only mode).

[0190] When a customer has finished shopping at the sales floor, they go to one of the two POS terminals 20 in normal mode, where a store clerk registers the products. After the store clerk has completed registration, the registration information is sent to the POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode), so the customer can pay for the purchase themselves. Note that, in order not to disrupt the accounting flow shown in the figure, registration information is generally sent to a POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) in the same lane, but it is also possible to send the information to a POS terminal 20 in semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode) in another lane.

[0191] Next, a general operation will be described in which registration information is transmitted to a POS terminal 20 in the semi-self mode (accounting-only mode) in the same lane.

[0192] (1) The POS terminal 20 in normal mode (or the store clerk of the device; hereafter the same applies in the present description) starts registering a product for a certain customer (customer 1) on the store clerk side. After completing the product registration for customer 1, the POS terminal 20 in normal mode transmits the registration information for customer 1 to another terminal, the POS terminal 20 in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode). (2) The POS terminal 20 in normal mode, which has transmitted the registration information of customer 1, starts registering products for the next customer (customer 2) on the clerk's side. After completing product registration for customer 2, if the previous customer, customer 1, is still in semi-self mode (accounting-only mode) (if customer 1's payment at another terminal has not been completed), the POS terminal 20 in normal mode performs payment for customer 2 on the customer's side of its own terminal. Note that if the next customer (customer 3) appears during payment for customer 2, the clerk's side is free, so registration of products for customer 3 starts. In other words, the POS terminal 20 in normal mode can perform payment processing for customer 2 on the customer side while performing registration processing for customer 3 on the clerk's side (it can process payment for customer 2 and registration for customer 3 in parallel). (3) After completing product registration for customer 3, if the previous customer, customer 2, is still on the customer side of the terminal (if customer 2's payment at the terminal has not been completed), the POS terminal 20 in normal mode sends the registration information for customer 3 to another terminal, the POS terminal 20 in semi-self mode (mode for accounting only).

[0193] Next, switching from configuration A to configuration B and switching from configuration B to configuration A will be described.

[0194] There are two types of methods for switching from configuration A to configuration B (methods for switching from configuration B to configuration A). One is a method (individual method) in which a mode switching operation is performed individually on each of the multiple POS terminals 20 (four terminals in the example of configuration A and configuration B) that make up the "island." The other is a method (collective method) in which a mode switching operation is performed on any one POS terminal 20 (one of the four terminals in the example of configuration A and configuration B) that makes up the "island," and the mode switching operation on one terminal also collectively switches the modes of the other POS terminals 20 that make up the "island."

[0195] FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. Specifically, FIG. 27(A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching, etc., when switching from configuration A to configuration B. More specifically, section (a) of FIG. 27(A) explains the individual method in switching from configuration A to configuration B described above. Section (b) of FIG. 27(A) explains the collective method in switching from configuration A to configuration B described above. FIG. 27(B) is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching, etc., when switching from configuration B to configuration A. More specifically, section (c) of FIG. 27(B) explains the individual method in switching from configuration B to configuration A described above. Section (d) of FIG. 27(B) explains the collective method in switching from configuration B to configuration A described above.

[0196] As shown in Figures 27(A) and 27(B), the collective method is advantageous compared to the individual method because it does not require much effort to switch from configuration A to configuration B or from configuration B to configuration A.

[0197] In order to realize the batch method, each POS terminal 20 may store (or query other terminals) information indicating how to switch modes when a switching operation is performed or a switching instruction is received, and may then switch to an appropriate operating mode (the operating mode shown in column (b) of Figure 27(A) or column (d) of Figure 27(A)) in response to the switching operation or switching instruction.

[0198] As shown outside the table in Fig. 27, the mode switching operation in the individual method (same for the batch method) may be performed by a hardware key or a software key (described later). Also, in the individual method (same for the batch method), instead of or in addition to the mode switching operation, individual operation modes may be switched by a mode switching instruction from a monitoring terminal or a mobile terminal of a store clerk.

[0199] Furthermore, in the batch method, switching of the batch method may be enabled not in any one of the POS terminals 20 but in a specific POS terminal 20 (for example, a POS terminal 20 frequently used by a store manager or the like (a POS terminal 20 located at a certain location), a POS terminal 20 to which the store manager or the like is logged in, etc.). For example, when the switching button 211a is operated in a specific POS terminal 20, switching using the batch method is executed, but when the switching button 211a is operated in a POS terminal 20 other than the specific POS terminal 20, switching using the batch method may not be executed.

[0200] In addition, in the batch method, a dedicated button for the batch method may be prepared (for example, the batch switching button 211b (see FIG. 3(B))).

[0201] In addition, the operation by the collective switching button 211b may be valid in a specific POS terminal 20. For example, the collective switching button 211b may be arranged in a specific POS terminal 20 (for example, a POS terminal 20 (a POS terminal 20 located at a certain place) that is frequently used by a store manager, etc.), and the collective switching button 211b may not be arranged in a POS terminal 20 that is not the specific POS terminal 20. In addition, although the collective switching button 211b is arranged in all POS terminals 20, when the collective switching button 211b is operated in a specific POS terminal 20 (for example, a POS terminal 20 where a store manager, etc. is logged in), the switching by the collective method is executed, but when the collective switching button 211b is operated in a POS terminal 20 that is not the specific POS terminal 20, the switching by the collective method is not executed. The same applies to the operation by the accounting-only mode switching button 211c (described later).

[0202] Next, the individual switching method will be described. Fig. 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining mode switching. Although the configurations A and B have been described above, the individual switching method described in Fig. 27 is also applicable to cases where appropriate switching is made to a configuration other than the configurations A and B. For example, it is also applicable to a situation where switching is made to a configuration in which there is one normal mode POS terminal and one semi-self-service (accounting-only mode) POS terminal 20, and two full-self-service POS terminals 20.

[0203] Although it has been described that the operation modes are switched in order each time the mode switching button 211a is operated, assuming an example of two operation modes (normal mode and full self mode), even if there are three or more operation modes, each time the mode switching button 211a is operated, the operation modes may be switched in order as in the case where there are two operation modes. When there are three or more operation modes, multiple operations are required to switch to a desired operation mode.

[0204] FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram explaining mode switching. The individual method (1) shown in FIG. 28 explains an example in which three operating modes (normal mode, full self-service mode, semi-self-service (accounting only mode)) are switched in sequence. In the case of the individual method (1) shown in FIG. 28, the mode switches from "normal mode" to "full self-service mode" to "semi-self-service (accounting only mode)", so for example, if the current operating mode is normal mode, two operations are required to switch to semi-self-service (accounting only mode).

[0205] If multiple mode switching operations are provided, the number of operations required to switch to the desired operation mode is reduced. In the individual method (2) shown in Fig. 28, when mode switching operation 1 (for example, operation of switching button 211a in Fig. 3) is performed, the mode switches in turn between normal mode and full self-service mode, and when mode switching operation 2 (for example, operation of accounting-only mode switching button 211c in Fig. 3) is performed, the mode switches to "semi-self-service (accounting-only mode)". The POS terminal 20 may switch the operation mode of each POS terminal 20 by a method according to individual method (2) instead of individual method (1).

[0206] As shown outside the table in Figure 28, when mode switching operation 1 is performed (similarly when mode switching operation 2 is performed), if the current operating mode is "semi-self (accounting only mode)", it may be switched to the operating mode before it became "semi-self (accounting only mode)" ("normal mode" or "full self mode").

[0207] Also, instead of the individual method (1) or (2), a number of mode switching buttons corresponding to the respective operation modes may be provided, and the operation mode may be switched to the operation mode corresponding to the operated mode switching button.

[0208] Although the mode switching buttons 211a and the like for switching the operation modes are hardware keys, the operation modes may be switched by software keys displayed on a display unit (clerk-side display unit 210 and the like) instead of or in addition to the hardware keys. That is, instead of or in addition to the switching button 211a, a software key equivalent to the switching button 211a may be displayed, instead of or in addition to the all-switching button 211b, a software key equivalent to the all-switching button 211b may be displayed, or instead of or in addition to the accounting-only mode switching button 211c, a software key equivalent to the accounting-only mode switching button 211c may be displayed. The same applies to each button when a number of mode switching buttons corresponding to each of the operation modes are provided.

[0209] Figure 29 is an explanatory diagram explaining the bag receiver. Figure 29(A) shows the state of the bag receiver suitable for when the POS terminal 20 is in full self-service mode. Figure 29(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 29(A) (bag receiver plate 300). In Figure 29(A), the right side is the upstream side of the checkout lead and the left side is the downstream side. The same is true for Figures 29(C) and 29(D).

[0210] In the full self-service mode, customers bag their purchased items. The person (customer) bagging the purchased items hangs a bag (shopping bag, bag for personal use) on arm 301 standing up from bag receiving plate 300, as shown in Figures 29(A) and 29(B). In this bag-receiving state, arm 301 stands up on the side of the person (customer) bagging the purchased items (i.e., the customer side (see Figure 2)), so it is easy for the person (customer) to hang a bag, and also easy to pack the purchased items because the bag is on the downstream side.

[0211] Fig. 29(C) shows a bag receiver state suitable for when the POS terminal 20 is in normal mode. In normal mode, the purchased items are basically bagged by a store clerk (for example, every time an item is registered, the items are bagged when the customer is paying). The person bagging the purchased items (store clerk) bags the purchased items by hanging the bags on the arm 302 standing up from the side of the POS terminal 20 as shown in Fig. 29(C). In this bag receiver state, the bag receiver plate 300 does not get in the way, so the person bagging the purchased items (store clerk) can easily hang the bags, and since the bags are on the downstream side, the purchased items can be easily packed.

[0212] Fig. 29(D) shows the state when the bag hanger is not in use. When the bag hanger is not in use, as shown in Fig. 29(D), the bag receiving plate 300 rotates (rotates toward the front in the figure) to fit against the side of the housing, and the arm 302 is folded against the side of the housing. Note that a storage section (recess, groove, etc.) for storing the arm 301 may be provided at a position opposite the arm 301 on the side of the housing so that the bag receiving plate 300 fits neatly against the side of the housing of the POS terminal 20.

[0213] When necessary (for example, when switching the POS terminal 20 from another operating mode to the full self-service mode), the store clerk rotates the bag receiving plate 300, which has been stored as shown in Fig. 29(D), to the position shown in Fig. 29(A). Note that by providing a drive unit that controls the rotation of the bag receiving plate 300, the bag receiving plate 300 may be rotated automatically (rather than manually by the store clerk). When switching from the full self-service mode to another operating mode, the reverse operation may be performed automatically.

[0214] Also, the store clerk raises the arm 302, which was folded as shown in Fig. 29(D), to the position shown in Fig. 29(C) as necessary (for example, when switching the POS terminal 20 from another operation mode to the normal mode, etc.). The arm 302 may be raised automatically by providing a drive unit that controls the raising of the arm 302. When switching from the normal mode to another operation mode, the reverse operation may be performed automatically.

[0215] In the semi-self-service mode (accounting only mode), the state shown in Fig. 29(A) or the state shown in Fig. 29(D) is suitable. For example, the state shown in Fig. 29(D) is suitable in a situation where the purchased items have already been bagged when the customer moves to the terminal after the store clerk has registered the items (for example, in the bag receiving state of Fig. 29(C), the store clerk has bagged the items when registering the items). On the other hand, the state shown in Fig. 29(A) is suitable in a situation where the purchased items have not been bagged when the customer moves to the terminal after the store clerk has registered the items (when the customer moves to the terminal with the shopping basket still in place).

[0216] The above describes the embodiment with reference to the drawings. According to the above embodiment, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 can be operated appropriately depending on the situation (state) at the time of the operation.

[0217] For example, as shown in Figures 19 and 23, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 operates appropriately depending on the operating mode, cash deposit status, payment type selection status, gift certificate registration status, product registration status, customer information acquisition status, and customer detection status at the time of the operation.

[0218] For example, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 operates appropriately depending on the operating mode, the state of the store clerk's operation, the state of the customer's operation, and the state of customer detection at the time of the operation, as shown in Figures 24 and 25.

[0219] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 19, 23, 24, and 25, when a mode switching operation is performed, the POS terminal 20 executes other suitable processes different from the mode switching process (e.g., deposit information cancellation process, deposit information transfer process, payment type information cancellation process, payment type information transfer process, gift certificate information cancellation process, gift certificate information transfer process, product information cancellation process, product information transfer process, customer information cancellation process, customer information transfer process) instead of or in addition to the mode switching process, depending on the situation at the time of the operation.

[0220] Alternatively, when a mode switching operation is performed and some information remains (if the state is not the initial state), the POS terminal 20 differs in its behavior after the operation based on whether the state is the intended state or not.

[0221] For example, when only cash has been inserted (cash inserted only state) or when only a product has been registered (product registered only state), it is determined that the state is unlikely to be the intended one, and the information is cancelled. However, when cash has been inserted and a product has been registered (cash inserted and product registered state), it is determined that the state is likely to be the intended one, and the information is not cancelled (see Figures 19 and 23).

[0222] Also, for example, when operations are being performed by either the store clerk or the customer (a state in which operations are being performed only by the store clerk, or a state in which operations are being performed only by the customer), it is determined that the state is unlikely to be intended, and the information is canceled; however, when operations are being performed by both the store clerk and the customer (a state in which operations are being performed by both sides, etc.), it is determined that the state is likely to be intended, and the information is not canceled (see Figures 24 and 25).

[0223] The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the specific configuration is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and includes designs within the scope of the invention that do not deviate from the gist of the invention.

[0224] For example, in the above embodiment, if multiple pieces of information exist when a mode switching operation is performed and the information is not cancelled, not all of the multiple pieces of information that exist are cancelled, but it is also possible to cancel some of the multiple pieces of information that exist and not cancel some of the information. For example, in the above embodiment, when cash is inserted and a product is registered (cash inserted product registration state), both the deposit information and product information are carried over (see FIG. 19) or retained (see FIG. 23), but it is also possible to cancel the deposit information and carry over (or retain) the product information.

[0225] In other words, when a mode switching operation is performed, one cancellation process (e.g., in the above example, a deposit information cancellation process) and one handover process (e.g., in the above example, a product information handover process) shown in Figure 20 (A) may be executed.

[0226] In addition, in the above embodiment, if the state when the mode switching operation is performed is the cash-only deposit state, the deposit information is always canceled (see Figures 19 and 23), but the processing may be different depending on the cash deposit situation (amount deposited, number of deposited bills, whether bills or coins are deposited, etc.).

[0227] For example, if the total amount deposited is less than a specified amount, it may be determined that the deposit is unlikely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if the total amount deposited is equal to or greater than a specified amount, it may be determined that the deposit is likely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

[0228] For example, if the total number of coins and bills inserted is less than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the insertion is unlikely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if the total number of coins inserted is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the insertion is likely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

[0229] Also, for example, if coins have been inserted, it may be determined that the insertion was unlikely to have been intentional and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if banknotes have been inserted, it may be determined that the insertion was likely to have been intentional and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

[0230] Also, for example, if only coins or only banknotes have been inserted, regardless of the total number of pieces inserted, it may be determined that the insertion is unlikely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if both coins and banknotes have been inserted, it may be determined that the insertion is likely to have been intentional, and the deposit information may be carried over or retained.

[0231] In addition, in the above embodiment, if the state when the mode switching operation is performed is the gift certificate registration only state, the gift certificate information is always canceled (see Figures 19 and 23), but the processing may be different depending on the gift certificate registration status (amount, number, type, etc.).

[0232] For example, if the total amount of the gift certificates (the total amount of the registered gift certificates) is less than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to have been intentional, and the gift certificate information may be canceled, whereas if the total amount of the gift certificates is equal to or greater than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is likely to have been intentional, and the gift certificate information may be carried over or retained.

[0233] For example, if the total number of gift certificates (total number of registered gift certificates) is less than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to be intentional, and the gift certificate information may be canceled, whereas if the total number of gift certificates is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, it may be determined that the registration is likely to be intentional, and the gift certificate information may be carried over or retained.

[0234] Also, for example, regardless of the total number of gift certificates, if only a single type of gift certificate is registered (for example, two gift certificates A), it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to be intentional, and the gift certificate information may be canceled. On the other hand, if multiple types of gift certificates are registered (for example, one gift certificate A and one gift certificate B), it may be determined that the registration is likely to be intentional, and the gift certificate information may be carried over or retained.

[0235] In addition, in the above embodiment, if the state when the mode switching operation is performed is the product registration only state, the product information is always canceled (see Figures 19 and 23), but the processing may be different depending on the product registration status (price, number of items, etc.).

[0236] For example, if the total product price (total price of registered products) is less than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to have been intentional, and the product information may be cancelled, whereas if the total product price is equal to or greater than a specified amount, it may be determined that the registration is likely to have been intentional, and the product information may be carried over or retained.

[0237] For example, if the total number of products (total number of registered products) is less than a specified number, it may be determined that the registration is unlikely to be intentional, and the product information may be canceled, whereas if the total number of products is equal to or greater than a specified number, it may be determined that the registration is likely to be intentional, and the product information may be carried over or retained.

[0238] In the above embodiment, the operation after the mode switching operation is different depending on the state at the time of the mode switching operation, but the operation after the mode switching operation may be different in consideration of the duration of the state. That is, the operation may be different depending on the time elapsed since each state was entered. As an example, if the state at the time of the mode switching operation is the cash insertion only state, the operation may be different depending on the time elapsed since the cash insertion.

[0239] For example, the POS terminal 20 may store the time when cash was inserted, and when the state when the mode switching operation was performed was the cash insertion only state, if the time elapsed from the time of cash insertion (the time of the last cash insertion in the case of multiple cash insertions) is equal to or greater than a predetermined time, the deposit information may be cancelled, whereas if the time elapsed from the time of cash insertion is less than the predetermined time, the deposit information may be taken over or held. Note that the above-mentioned cash insertion status (deposit amount, number of inserted bills, whether bills or coins, etc.) may be combined with the time elapsed from the time of cash insertion to differentiate the processing. Alternatively, the time elapsed from the time of cash insertion may be regarded as one of the cash insertion statuses.

[0240] Also, for example, the POS terminal 20 may store the time when the product was registered, and when the state when the mode switching operation was performed was the product registration state only, if the time elapsed from the product registration time (the last product registration time in the case of multiple registrations) is equal to or greater than a predetermined time, the product information may be cancelled, whereas if the time elapsed from the cash insertion time is less than the predetermined time, the product information may be taken over or held. Note that the above-mentioned product registration status (amount, number, etc.) may be combined with the time elapsed from the product registration time to differentiate the processing. Alternatively, the time elapsed from the product registration time may be regarded as one of the product registration statuses.

[0241] In the above embodiment, when the mode switching button 211a is operated, a process corresponding to the state when the mode switching operation is performed is executed (the operation corresponds to the state when the mode switching operation is performed), but before the process is actually executed, the type of process to be executed (the type of operation) may be notified. For example, when a certain operation is to be performed after the mode switching operation, a small screen may be displayed before the operation is actually performed, indicating that the operation will be performed and displaying an OK button and an NG button to request the store clerk to reject the operation, and the operation may not be performed if the NG button is operated, and the operation may be performed if the OK button is operated. The same applies when the all-key switching button 211b or the accounting-only mode switching button 211c is operated. In a mode in which a software key (a software key corresponding to the switching button 211a, a software key corresponding to the all-key switching button 211b, or a software key corresponding to the accounting-only mode switching button 211c) is used, the same applies when the mode switching button of the software key is operated.

[0242] Furthermore, in a mode in which the operation mode is switched by a software key (such as a mode in which a software key is provided instead of or in addition to a hardware key), information may be displayed in association with the software key (for example, on the software key, superimposed on the software key, or in the vicinity of the display position of the software key) to notify the user of what process is actually executed (what operation is performed) when a mode switching operation is performed using the software key (which may include, in the case of having mode switching button 211a, when a mode switching operation is performed using mode switching button 211a).

[0243] In addition, after a mode switching operation (operation of a hardware key, software key, etc.), multiple types of operation modes (individual operation modes, operation modes relating to the entire "island" such as configuration A, configuration B, etc.) may be displayed in a manner selectable by the store clerk (for example, displayed on the store clerk's display unit 210, or displayed on a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet terminal used by the store clerk), and the operation mode may be switched to the operation mode selected by the store clerk.

[0244] Also, instead of or in addition to when a mode switching operation (operation of a hardware key, software key, etc.) is performed (after a mode switching operation), multiple types of operation modes may be displayed in a manner selectable by the store clerk as described above even when a mode switching operation is not performed. For example, when the store clerk operates (presses) image GA02, image GA03, etc. in FIG. 9(A), multiple types of operation modes may be displayed in a manner selectable by the store clerk. That is, when image GA02 in FIG. 9(A) is operated, the operation mode of the switching destination (switching candidate) of the POS terminal 20-2 corresponding to image GA02, the switching destination configuration (configuration A, configuration B) of the island to which the POS terminal 20-2 corresponding to image GA02 belongs, etc. may be displayed so that the store clerk can select them. Also, for example, a dedicated area may be provided on the registration screen, and multiple types of operation modes may be displayed in the dedicated area basically all the time in a manner selectable by the store clerk as described above.

[0245] Also, instead of or in addition to the above, information regarding the switching of the "island" may be notified. For example, depending on the congestion situation in the store, a notification urging the switching of the "island" mode may be made to the POS terminal 20 (a specific POS terminal 20 or all POS terminals in the store), a monitoring terminal, or a mobile terminal used by a store clerk. The store clerk may check and judge the congestion situation in the store, but the judgment may be made automatically using a camera in the store (a camera installed on the ceiling or the POS terminal 20), or may be made automatically based on the operating status of the POS terminal 20. Also, instead of or in addition to the congestion situation in the store, information regarding the switching of the "island" may be notified according to a predetermined schedule. For example, in the case of a store where the number of customers starts to decrease after 8 p.m., a schedule may be set to make a notification at 8 p.m. to prompt the switching from configuration B to configuration A, and a notification may be made according to the schedule (at 8 p.m.).

[0246] Also, instead of or in addition to the above-mentioned notification, the "island" mode may be switched according to a predetermined schedule. For example, since there are many customers until 8 p.m., the schedule may be set so that operation is performed in configuration B, and then the operation is switched to configuration A around 8 p.m. when the number of customers starts to decrease.

[0247] Also, when a switching key that normally only switches the mode of the own device is judged to be around the scheduled switching time (for example, 19:50 to 20:10) as described above, it may be displayed so that the user can select switching of the own device, switching of the "island", etc. In other words, a certain mode switching operation (operation of a hardware key, software key, etc.) may be performed in some cases to only switch the own device, and in other cases to switch either the own device or the "island".

[0248] In addition, in a mode in which the operation mode is switched by a software key, information notifying the above-mentioned various states (various states shown in Figures 19, 23, 24, 25, etc.) may be displayed in association with the software key instead of or in addition to information notifying what process is actually executed (what operation is performed). Note that as information notifying various states, information displayed in tab area T1 (information related to the selected payment type, acquired customer information, registered voucher information, etc.) may be displayed.

[0249] Furthermore, the POS terminal 20 may accept, as a mode switching operation, operation of a button on an external device connectable to the POS terminal 20 by wire or wirelessly (a hardware key provided on the external device, or a software key displayed on the screen of the external device) instead of or in addition to a hardware key (mode switching button 211a) or the above-mentioned software key, and when operation of a button on the external device is accepted, the same control as when operation of the mode switching button 211a is accepted may be performed.

[0250] As already partially explained, when the POS terminal 20 receives a mode switching instruction (mode switching command) from another terminal (for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet terminal used by a store clerk), the POS terminal 20 may perform the same control as when the operation of the mode switching button 211a is accepted. Note that, as described above, in the mode in which the mode switching instruction is received from another terminal, the POS terminal 20 itself may have a mode switching means (hardware key, software key), but the POS terminal 20 itself may not have a mode switching means.

[0251] Note that the mode switching operation (including mode switching instructions from other terminals) may be allowed only when the operator is a specific store clerk (depending on the operator's authority). For example, when the store manager or the like is logged in to the POS terminal 20, the mode switching operation may be enabled (specifically, controlled as shown in Figs. 19, 23, 24, and 25), and when a part-timer or the like is logged in, the mode switching operation may be disabled (an error may be generated unconditionally regardless of the state at the time of the mode switching operation).

[0252] In the above embodiment, when the subtotal key is operated, the POS terminal 20-1 displays the small screen SG02 superimposed on the registration screen (Figure 13 (A)). However, when the subtotal key is operated, the POS terminal 20-1 may display (switch to) a small screen that displays information, etc. displayed on the small screen SG02 instead of the registration screen.

[0253] In addition, in the above embodiment, the POS terminal 20 is equipped with one printing unit 213 that can be freely rotated to face from the clerk side to the customer side and from the customer side to the clerk side (see Figures 2 to 4), but instead of one printing unit 213, it may be equipped with two printing units (a printing unit fixedly facing the clerk side and a printing unit fixedly facing the customer side).

[0254] In the above embodiment, when transmitting registration information to another terminal, the store clerk specified (selected) the terminal to which the registration information was to be sent (destination), but when transmitting registration information to another terminal, the store clerk may simply specify that the registration information is to be sent without specifying the terminal to which the registration information is to be sent. In other words, it may be possible to simply provide only a send button. In an embodiment in which the store clerk specifies that the registration information is to be sent without specifying the terminal to which the registration information is to be sent, the sending terminal selects one of the destination terminals according to a predetermined priority order and transmits the registration information to the selected terminal.

[0255] The above-mentioned predetermined priority order may be set so that, for example, when registration information is sent from the POS terminal 20-1 to other terminals (POS terminal 20-2, POS terminal 20-3), the POS terminal 20-3 in full self-service mode is given a higher priority than the POS terminal 20-2 in normal mode (registration information may be sent preferentially to the POS terminal 20-3 in full self-service mode).

[0256] Supplementary Notes 1 to 10 are disclosed below. (Appendix 1) A sales data processing device capable of operating in a plurality of operating modes, An instruction receiving means for receiving an operation mode switching instruction for switching the operation mode of the device itself (for example, a mode switching operation using the mode switching button 211a or a software key, a mode switching command, etc.); A control means for controlling the device itself; Equipped with The control means When the state of the own device at the time of receiving the operation mode switching instruction is an initial state (e.g., a state in which processing is not in progress, etc.), control execution of an operation mode switching process (such as the mode switching process of FIG. 20) for switching the operation mode of the own device; A sales data processing device characterized in that, if the state of the device itself when the operation mode switching instruction is received is not an initial state, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, another process different from the operation mode switching process (see Figure 20 (A)).

[0257] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 1, efficient processing is possible. In other words, in general, the operation mode is switched to perform efficient processing, but when switching the operation mode, various confirmation operations by the store clerk are required depending on the state of the device itself, which may result in poor efficiency. On the other hand, according to the above configuration, the sales data processing device operates appropriately depending on the state of the device itself when it receives an instruction to switch the operation mode, so efficient processing is possible.

[0258] (Appendix 2) The sales data processing device according to claim 1, wherein the instruction receiving means receives an operation mode switching operation by a store clerk (for example, a mode switching operation using a mode switching button 211a or a software key) as the operation mode switching instruction.

[0259] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 2, the operation mode can be easily switched.

[0260] (Appendix 3) The control means When the operation mode switching instruction is received, if the progress state of the payment processing in the own device (for example, the state of cash insertion, the state of payment type selection, the state of coupon registration, etc.) is an initial state, control the execution of the operation mode switching process; A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that if the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself when the operation mode switching instruction is received is not an initial state, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, the sales data processing device controls the execution of a payment cancellation process (for example, the ``deposit information cancellation process,'' ``payment type information cancellation process,'' ``gift certificate information cancellation process,'' etc. in Figure 20 (A)) that resets the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself to its initial state.

[0261] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 3, the process can be carried out efficiently according to the progress of the payment process.

[0262] (Appendix 4) The control means When the operation mode switching instruction is received, if the progress state of the product registration process in the own device (e.g., the state of the product registration) is an initial state, control the execution of the operation mode switching process; A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that if the progress state of the product registration process in the device itself is not an initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is received, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, the device controls the execution of a product registration cancellation process (e.g., the "product information cancellation process" in Figure 20(A)) that resets the progress state of the product registration process in the device itself to an initial state.

[0263] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 4, the process can be efficiently performed according to the progress of the product registration process.

[0264] (Appendix 5) The control means A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that when the progress states of both the payment processing and the product registration processing in the device itself when the operation mode switching instruction is received are both in their initial states, or when the progress states of both the processing when the operation mode switching instruction is received are not in their initial states (for example, the "cash-input product registration state" in Figures 19 and 23, etc.), the execution of the operation mode switching processing is controlled.

[0265] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 5, the processing can be performed efficiently according to the progress of the payment processing and the product registration processing.

[0266] (Appendix 6) The control means When the operation mode switching instruction is given, the progress state of the settlement processing in the own device is an initial state, but when the progress state of the product registration processing in the own device is not an initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is given, control is performed to execute a product registration cancellation process to reset the progress state of the product registration processing in the own device to an initial state instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process; A sales data processing device as described in Supplementary Note 1, Supplementary Note 2, and Supplementary Note 5, characterized in that when the operation mode switching instruction is received, the progress state of the product registration processing in the device itself is in an initial state, but when the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself is not in the initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is received, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching processing, the device controls the execution of a payment cancellation processing to reset the progress state of the payment processing in the device itself to the initial state.

[0267] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 6, the processing can be performed efficiently according to the progress of the payment processing and the product registration processing.

[0268] (Appendix 7) The control means A sales data processing device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that when the progress states of both processes, the process based on the clerk's operation and the process based on the customer's operation, are in their initial states when the operation mode switching instruction is given, or when the progress states of both processes, the process based on the clerk's operation and the process based on the customer's operation, are not in their initial states when the operation mode switching instruction is given (for example, when the progress states are the "both sides operation state" in Figures 24 and 25, etc.).

[0269] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 7, efficient processing can be performed according to the state of operations by store clerks and customers.

[0270] (Appendix 8) The control means when the operation mode switching instruction is given, the progress state of the process based on the operation of the store clerk is in an initial state, but when the progress state of the process based on the operation of the customer is not in the initial state, control is performed to execute a cancellation process to reset the progress state of the process based on the operation of the customer to the initial state instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process; A sales data processing device as described in Supplementary Note 1, Supplementary Note 2, and Supplementary Note 7, characterized in that if the progress state of the processing based on the customer's operation when the operation mode switching instruction is given is in an initial state, but the progress state of the processing based on the store clerk's operation when the operation mode switching instruction is given is not in the initial state, instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process, the device controls the execution of a cancellation process to reset the progress state of the processing based on the store clerk's operation to the initial state.

[0271] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 8, processing can be performed efficiently according to the state of operations by store clerks and customers.

[0272] (Appendix 9) a detection means for detecting the presence of a customer of the device; The control means A sales data processing device as described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8, characterized in that if the presence of a customer is detected when the operation mode switching instruction is received, the execution of the operation mode switching process is controllable.

[0273] According to the configuration of Supplementary Note 9, processing can be efficiently performed depending on whether or not the presence of a customer is detected.

[0274] (Appendix 10) A program for causing a computer to function as a sales data processing device capable of operating in a plurality of operating modes, The computer, An instruction receiving means for receiving an operation mode switching instruction for switching an operation mode of the own device; Control means for controlling the device itself Functioning as a The control means When the state of the own device at the time of receiving the operation mode switching instruction is an initial state, control is performed to execute an operation mode switching process to switch the operation mode of the own device; A program characterized by executing another process different from the operation mode switching process instead of or in addition to the operation mode switching process when the state of the device itself is not an initial state when the operation mode switching instruction is received.

[0275] 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]

[0276] 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 211a…Mode switching button 211b…Mode switching button 211c…Mode switching button 212…Clerk side scanner 213…Printing Department 214...Audio output unit 215…Communications Department

Claims

1. A sales data processing device having a clerk registration mode in which a clerk operates a clerk-side display unit to register a product, and a customer registration mode in which a customer operates a customer-side display unit to register a product, a reception unit for receiving an operation of an operation mode switching instruction by the store clerk to switch the operation mode of the device to the store clerk registration mode or the customer registration mode; an operation mode switching execution means for executing an operation mode switching process for switching an operation mode of the own device based on the reception by the reception means; Equipped with The operation mode switching execution means In a state where a product is registered, the operation mode switching process for switching the operation mode of the device itself from the customer registration mode to the store clerk registration mode cannot be executed. A sales data processing device comprising:

2. When the operation mode of the device itself is the customer registration mode, if the reception means receives an operation for instructing to switch the operation mode while a product is registered, a notification is given that the product registration has been cancelled.

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

3. The system has two registration sides: a store clerk side where the store clerk operates the store clerk side display unit to register products, and a customer side where the customer operates the customer side display unit to register products.

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

4. A program for causing a computer to function as a sales data processing device having a clerk registration mode in which a clerk operates a clerk-side display unit to register a product, and a customer registration mode in which a customer operates a customer-side display unit to register a product, The computer, a reception unit for receiving an operation of an operation mode switching instruction by the store clerk to switch the operation mode of the device to the store clerk registration mode or the customer registration mode; an operation mode switching execution means for executing an operation mode switching process for switching an operation mode of the own device based on the reception by the reception means; Functioning as a The operation mode switching execution means In a state where a product is registered, the operation mode switching process for switching the operation mode of the device itself from the customer registration mode to the store clerk registration mode cannot be executed. A program characterized by:

5. A method for processing product sales data in a sales data processing device having a clerk registration mode in which a clerk operates a clerk-side display unit to register a product, and a customer registration mode in which a customer operates a customer-side display unit to register a product, comprising: a receiving step of receiving an operation of an operation mode switching instruction by the store clerk to switch the operation mode of the device to the store clerk registration mode or the customer registration mode; an operation mode switching execution step of executing an operation mode switching process for switching the operation mode of the own device based on the reception in the reception step; Including, The operation mode switching execution step includes: In a state where a product is registered, the operation mode switching process for switching the operation mode of the device itself from the customer registration mode to the store clerk registration mode cannot be executed. A sales data processing method comprising:

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