Settlement device, its program, and settlement method

Abstract

To provide a payment method in which settlement information on electronic money or the like stored in a medium such as a point card can be handled without making a user feel complicated and without impairing the versatility of the payment method.SOLUTION: First acquisition means acquires identification information of a payer and settlement information from information held by a first medium. Second acquisition means acquires settlement information from information held by a second medium different from the first medium. Waiting means, when instructed to settle a transaction after the identification information and the settlement information are acquired by the first acquisition means, is instructed to use the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means or waits for the settlement information to be acquired by the second acquisition means. When instructed to use the settlement information, settlement means settles the transaction with the payer using the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means. When the second acquisition means acquires the settlement information, the settlement means settles the transaction with the payer using the settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a settlement device, a program thereof, and a settlement method for the settlement device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, point cards having functions of electronic money, so-called point cards with electronic money, have been widely spread. Since a point card with electronic money can be charged with house-type electronic money that can be used at the store where the service points accumulated by transactions at point card affiliated stores are used, customers can be trapped.

[0003] Point cards with electronic money are classified into linked type and non-linked type. A linked type point card with electronic money is a card that automatically pays the price of a transaction set as a transaction for granting service points by reading the card data with the electronic money attached to the card. Therefore, it is convenient to use at stores where the payment method is limited to electronic money. However, it cannot meet the demands of customers who want to settle transactions by payment methods other than electronic money.

[0004] On the other hand, a non-linked type point card with electronic money is not limited to the electronic money attached to the card as a payment method. Therefore, it is possible to pay the price of a transaction for which service points are granted by a payment method other than electronic money such as cash or a credit card. It is also possible to pay the price of a transaction with the electronic money attached to another point card. However, even when a customer pays the price of a transaction with the electronic money attached to the point card, the data of the same point card must be read again before payment, which is troublesome.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a settlement device that can deal with payment by settlement information such as electronic money possessed by a medium such as a point card without loss of generality of the payment method and without complexity.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In one embodiment, the settlement device includes a first acquisition means, a second acquisition means, a waiting means, and a settlement means. The first acquisition means acquires identification information of the settler and settlement information used for settlement of a transaction between the settler from information possessed by the first medium. The second acquisition means acquires settlement information from information possessed by a second medium different from the first medium. The waiting means waits for an instruction to use the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means or waits for the second acquisition means to acquire settlement information after the identification information and the settlement information are acquired by the first acquisition means and the settlement of the transaction is instructed. The settlement means settles the transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means when an instruction to use the settlement information is given. The settlement means settles the transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the settlement information is acquired by the second acquisition means.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the settlement device will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the settlement device 10. The settlement device 10 is a device that settles transactions with a settler in a store. The settler is, for example, a customer who purchases goods sold in a retail store such as a supermarket or a specialty store. The settler is, for example, a user who uses services provided by a facility store such as a hot spring facility, a sports gym, or an esthetic salon. The settlement device 10 has functions as a reading unit 11, a storage unit 12, an input unit 13, a display unit 14, a registration unit 15, a cashier unit 16, and a communication unit 17.

[0010] The reading unit 11 reads data recorded on the medium 20. The medium 20 is a general term for data holding media such as an IC card, a magnetic card, a wireless tag, a barcode, and a two-dimensional data code. When the medium 20 is an IC card, the reading unit 11 serves as an IC card reader. When the medium 20 is a magnetic card, the reading unit 11 serves as a magnetic card reader. When the medium 20 is a wireless tag, the reading unit 11 serves as a wireless tag reader. When the medium 20 is a barcode or a two-dimensional data code, the reading unit 11 serves as a code scanner. Note that the barcode or two-dimensional data code may be pasted or printed on a substrate as a label, or may be displayed on the display of a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The reading unit 11 can be rephrased as a reading means.

[0011] The medium 20 is owned by the settler who has become a member of the store. The medium 20 is used when the settler settles a transaction at the store where the settler has become a member. The store may be an independent store or a chain store. The member is, for example, a point service member to whom points are given by settling a transaction. The member may be a privileged member to whom points or similar benefits are given, for example, by visiting the store. The medium 20 holds identification information for identifying that the settler who is its owner is a member. Hereinafter, this identification information is referred to as a member ID.

[0012] Also, the medium 20 holds settlement information used for settling a transaction at the store. The settlement information is, for example, information related to electronic money. The information related to electronic money is identification information corresponding to the balance of the electronic money, so-called electronic money ID. The electronic money ID may be the same as or different from the member ID. The settlement information is not limited to the electronic money ID. For example, the medium 20 may record the balance of the electronic money as information related to the electronic money, that is, settlement information. Also, the settlement information may be information related to a credit card, for example, the card number of the credit card.

[0013] Note that hereinafter, the member is a point service member. The settlement information is an electronic money ID. The medium 20 is an IC card or a magnetic card. That is, in this embodiment, an electronic money-added point card is taken as an example of the medium 20. Regarding the medium 20, an electronic money-added point card owned by a first owner is represented as a first medium 201, and an electronic money-added point card owned by a second owner is represented as a second medium 202, as appropriate.

[0014] The storage unit 12 stores the data of the medium 20 read by the reading unit 11. The storage unit 12 has at least a storage area 121 for the member ID read from the medium 20 and a storage area 122 for the electronic money ID. The storage unit 12 can be paraphrased as a storage means.

[0015] The input unit 13 accepts the input of data related to transactions with the payer. For example, the input unit 13 accepts the input of data related to the payer's purchase of goods. For example, the input unit 13 accepts the input of data related to the payer's facility usage status. The input unit 13 can be rephrased as input means.

[0016] The display unit 14 displays data related to the transaction to the store clerk or the payer. For example, the display unit 14 displays the price of the goods purchased by the payer, the total amount, etc. For example, the display unit 14 displays the facility usage fee, etc. according to the payer's usage status. The display unit 14 can be rephrased as display means.

[0017] The registration unit 15 registers the sales data of the transaction based on the data input via the input unit 13. For example, the registration unit 15 registers the sales data of the goods purchased by the payer. For example, the registration unit 15 registers the sales data of the facility associated with the payer's usage. The registration unit 15 can be rephrased as registration means.

[0018] The accounting unit 16 processes the accounting of the settlement amount calculated based on the sales data registered by the registration unit 15. The settlement amount is, for example, the total amount of the goods purchased by the payer. The settlement amount is, for example, the usage fee of the facility used by the payer. The accounting unit 16 supports at least electronic money payment. Preferably, the accounting unit 16 also supports payment methods other than electronic money, such as cash payment and credit card payment. The accounting unit 16 can be rephrased as accounting means.

[0019] The communication unit 17 connects to the communication network 30. The communication unit 17 performs data communication with the point server 40 and the electronic money server 50 via the communication network 30. The communication network is typically an intranet. The communication network may also be a WAN (Wide Area Network), a LAN (Local Area Network), the Internet, etc. The communication unit 17 can be rephrased as communication means.

[0020] The point server 40 manages the point database 41. The point database 41 is an aggregate of point records generated for each member. A point record is a data record that records a member's member ID and the points owned by that member.

[0021] The electronic money server 50 manages the electronic money database 51. The electronic money database 51 is an aggregate of electronic money records generated for each member. An electronic money record is a data record that records a member's electronic money ID and the balance of electronic money owned by that member. Incidentally, a member can convert the points in the point record including their own member ID into electronic money and charge the electronic money in the electronic money record including their own electronic money ID.

[0022] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure 21 held by the medium 20. As shown in the figure, the medium 20 holds a data structure 21 including a type code, a member ID, an electronic money ID, and a linkage flag. The type code is data indicating that the medium 20 is an electronic money - attached point card. The member ID and the electronic money ID are as described above.

[0023] The linkage flag is 1 - bit data for identifying whether to link the function of electronic money to the point card. A member who becomes a point service member and obtains an electronic money - attached point card does not necessarily have to use the electronic money linked to the point card for transaction settlement. The electronic money linked to the point card is a house - type electronic money that can only be used at point card franchise stores. Point members who do not use the house - type electronic money for transaction settlement disable the function of electronic money. In that case, the linkage flag becomes 1 - bit data indicating non - linkage, for example, "0". Point members who use the house - type electronic money for transaction settlement at franchise stores enable the function of electronic money. In that case, the linkage flag becomes 1 - bit data indicating linkage, for example, "1".

[0024] Next, as an example of one aspect of the settlement device 10, a POS terminal 60 installed at the accounting area of a retail store or a facility store will be exemplified.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the POS terminal 60. The POS terminal 60 includes a processor 61, a main memory 62, an auxiliary storage device 63, a clock 64, a communication interface 65, a keyboard 66, a scanner 67, a display 68, a printer 69, a card reader 70, a change machine interface 71, a system transmission path 72, and the like. The system transmission path 72 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, and the like. The system transmission path 72 connects the processor 61 and other respective parts directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged therebetween.

[0026] The POS terminal 60 constitutes a computer by connecting the processor 61, the main memory 62, the auxiliary storage device 63, the clock 64, and the communication interface 65 via the system transmission path 72. Then, the POS terminal 60 connects devices such as the keyboard 66, the scanner 67, the display 68, the printer 69, the card reader 70, and the change machine interface 71 to the computer via the system transmission path 72.

[0027] The processor 61 corresponds to the central part of the above computer. The processor 61 controls each part in order to realize various functions as the POS terminal 60 according to an operating system or an application program. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0028] The main memory 62 corresponds to the main storage part of the above computer. The main memory 62 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, the main memory 62 stores an operating system or an application program. The main memory 62 may store, in the non-volatile or volatile memory area, data necessary for the processor 61 to execute processes for controlling each part. The main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is appropriately rewritten by the processor 61. The non-volatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0029] The auxiliary storage device 63 corresponds to the auxiliary storage part of the above computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) etc. can be the auxiliary storage device 63. The auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by the processor 61 to perform various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 61, etc. The auxiliary storage device 63 may store the above application program.

[0030] The clock 64 measures the date and time. The processor 61 processes the date and time measured by the clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0031] The communication interface 65 connects to the communication network 30. The POS terminal 60 performs data communication with a point server 40, an electronic money server 50, etc. connected to the communication network 30 via the communication interface 65.

[0032] The keyboard 66 is an input device having various function keys necessary for the POS terminal 60, such as a numeric keypad for inputting numerical values, a subtotal key, a cancel key, and a close key.

[0033] Scanner 67 is an input device that scans and reads, for example, barcodes attached to products. Scanner 67 may be of a type that reads barcodes by scanning laser light, or may be of a type that reads barcodes from an image captured by an imaging device.

[0034] Display 68 is an output device having a screen capable of displaying various screen information such as an initial screen, a product registration screen, a subtotal screen, an inquiry screen, etc., which will be described later. There are an operator display and a customer display on Display 68. Display 68 may be a touch panel with a touch sensor arranged on the screen.

[0035] Printer 69 is an output device used for printing transaction receipts, credit slips, etc.

[0036] Card reader 70 is an input device that reads data from the electronic money - attached point card which is Medium 20. That is, card reader 70 is an IC card reader or a magnetic card reader. The medium from which card reader 70 can read data is not limited to the electronic money - attached point card. For example, when the card reader is an IC card reader, it can also read data from credit cards, common electronic money cards, etc. made of IC cards. A common electronic money card is, for example, a card corresponding to transportation - related electronic money. For example, when the card reader is a magnetic card reader, it can also read data from credit cards, prepaid cards, etc. made of magnetic cards.

[0037] The change machine interface 71 connects to an automatic change machine (not shown). The change machine interface 71 inputs the amount data of the currency inserted into the automatic change machine from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 71 outputs change data to the automatic change machine. The automatic change machine that has received the change data automatically pays out the currency equivalent to the change data as change.

[0038] In the POS terminal 60 with such a configuration, the card reader 70 functions as the reading unit 11, and the main memory 62 functions as the storage unit 12. Therefore, the main memory 62 has a storage area 121 for member IDs and a storage area 122 for electronic money IDs. Also, in the POS terminal 60, the keyboard 66 and the scanner 67 function as the input unit 13, the display 68 functions as the display unit 14, the processor 61 functions as the registration unit 15 and the accounting unit 16, and the communication interface 65 functions as the communication unit 17.

[0039] Then, the POS terminal 60 implements a control program that controls the processor 61 to operate as the first acquisition means 611, the second acquisition means 612, the waiting means 613, the settlement means 614, and the provision means 615. The control program is one of the application programs stored in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The method of installing the control program in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63 is not particularly limited. The control program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or distributed through communication via a network and installed in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The recording medium can be in any form as long as it can non-temporarily store the program and can be read by the device, such as a CD-ROM, a memory card, etc.

[0040] The first acquisition means 611 is a means for acquiring the identification information of the settler and the settlement information used for the settlement of the transaction between the settler and the information possessed by the first medium 201. In the present embodiment, the first medium 201 is an electronic money-point card. The identification information of the settler is the member ID. The settlement information is the electronic money ID.

[0041] The second acquisition means 612 is a means for acquiring the settlement information from the information possessed by the second medium 202 different from the first medium 201. In the present embodiment, the second medium 202 is an electronic money-point card different from the electronic money-point card which is the first medium 201. The settlement information is the electronic money ID.

[0042] The waiting means 613 is a means for waiting for whether the use of the payment information (the electronic money ID of the first medium 201) acquired by the first acquisition means 611 is instructed or for the second acquisition means 612 to acquire the payment information (the electronic money ID of the second medium 202) when a payment for a transaction is instructed after the first acquisition means 611 has acquired the identification information (member ID) and the payment information (electronic money ID).

[0043] The settlement means 614 is a means for settling a transaction with a settler using the payment information (the electronic money ID of the first medium 201) acquired by the first acquisition means 611 when the use of the payment information is instructed. Also, when the second acquisition means acquires the payment information (the electronic money ID of the second medium 202), the settlement means 614 is a means for settling a transaction with a settler using the payment information.

[0044] The provision means 615 is a means for providing a service based on the settlement of a transaction to a settler identified by the identification information (member ID) acquired by the first acquisition means 611. The service is a point service.

[0045] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are flowcharts showing the main procedure of the transaction settlement process executed by the processor 61 of the POS terminal 60. The transaction settlement process is, in the case of a retail store, a process of registering the sales data of the goods purchased by the settler and closing the accounts for the total amount. The transaction settlement process is, in the case of a facility store, a process of registering the sales data of the facility associated with the use by the settler and closing the accounts for the facility usage fee.

[0046] Hereinafter, the operations related to the first acquisition means 611, the second acquisition means 612, the waiting means 613, the settlement means 614, and the provision means 615 of the POS terminal 60 will be described according to the procedure of the transaction settlement process shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Note that the procedure and content of the operations described below are examples. The procedure or content of the operations can be appropriately changed as long as the same effects can be obtained.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 4, when the transaction settlement process is started, the processor 61 first displays an initial screen on the display 68 as ACT1. The initial screen is a screen that notifies the operator of the start of the transaction settlement process. For example, the initial screen is a screen that instructs the operator to have the card reader 70 read the data of the electronic money - attached point card when the payer is a point service member. The operator is typically a store clerk. The payer may also be the operator. The operator who has confirmed the initial screen, if the payer is a point service member, causes the card reader 70 to read the data of the electronic money - attached point card owned by the payer. If the payer is not a point service member, the operator inputs, for example, the cancel key on the keyboard 66.

[0048] The processor 61 checks whether it is a transaction of a point service member as ACT2. For example, when the cancel key on the keyboard 66 is input, the processor 61 recognizes that it is not a transaction of a point service member. The processor 61 determines NO in ACT2 and processes the transaction with a non - member. Since this process is a well - known process in existing POS terminals, the description here is omitted.

[0049] When the electronic money - attached point card is read by the card reader 70, that is, when the type code of the data structure 21 indicates the electronic money - attached point card, the processor 61 recognizes that it is a transaction of a point service member. The processor 61 determines YES in ACT2 and proceeds to ACT3.

[0050] The processor 61 checks whether it is a point card with the electronic money function linked as ACT3. When the link flag of the data structure 21 is "0", the electronic money - attached point card has the electronic money function disabled. The processor 61 determines NO in ACT3 and proceeds to ACT4. The processor 61 writes the member ID of the data structure 21 to the storage area 121 as ACT4.

[0051] On the other hand, when the link flag of the data structure 21 is "1", the electronic money - attached point card has the electronic money function enabled. The processor 61 determines YES in ACT3 and proceeds to ACT5. The processor 61 writes the member ID of the data structure 21 to the storage area 121 and writes the electronic money ID to the storage area 122 as ACT5. Here, the processor 61 operates as the first acquisition means 611 by the processes of ACT4 and ACT5.

[0052] After finishing the process of ACT4 or ACT5, the processor 61 acquires member information as ACT6. Specifically, the processor 61 generates an inquiry command for member information including the member ID stored in the storage area 121 and controls the communication interface 65 to send it to the point server 40. By this control, the inquiry command is sent from the communication interface 65 to the point server 40 via the communication network 30. The point server 40 that has received the inquiry command searches the point database 41 and acquires member information including point data from the point record including the member ID in the inquiry command. The point server 40 returns a response command including the member information to the POS terminal 60 that is the inquiry command sender. Thus, the processor 61 can acquire member information from the point server 40. The processor 61 stores the member information in the main memory 62.

[0053] The processor 61 displays a registration screen on the display 68 as ACT7. In the case of a retail store, the registration screen is a screen for receiving input of data related to the goods purchased by the payer. In the case of a facility store, the registration screen is a screen for receiving input of data related to the facility usage status of the payer.

[0054] The processor 61 checks whether a registration operation has been performed as ACT8. The registration operation, in the case of a retail store, is an operation in which a payer inputs data related to the goods to be purchased via a keyboard 66 or a scanner 67 or the like. The registration operation, in the case of a facility store, is that data related to the facility usage status of the payer is input via a keyboard 66 or a scanner 67 or the like. If the registration operation has not been performed, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT8 and proceeds to ACT9. The processor 61 checks whether a subtotal operation has been performed as ACT9. The subtotal operation is, for example, an operation of inputting the subtotal key of the keyboard 66. If the subtotal operation has not been performed, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT9 and returns to ACT8. In this way, the processor 61 waits for a registration operation or a subtotal operation to be performed as ACT8 and ACT9.

[0055] In the waiting state of ACT8 and ACT9, when a registration operation is performed, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT8 and proceeds to ACT10. The processor 61 executes a registration process as ACT10. Specifically, the processor 61 registers the sales data of the goods purchased by the payer or the sales data of the facility used by the payer based on the data input by the registration operation. Also, the processor 61 updates the registration screen based on the result of the registration process. Then, the processor 61 returns to the waiting state of ACT8 and ACT9.

[0056] In the waiting state of ACT8 and ACT9, when a subtotal operation is performed, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT9 and proceeds to ACT11. It is assumed that at least one registration operation has been performed. If a subtotal operation is performed without a registration operation, the processor 61 invalidates the subtotal operation.

[0057] After at least one registration operation is performed and then a subtotal operation is performed, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT9 and proceeds to ACT11. The processor 61, as ACT11, displays a subtotal screen on the display 68. The subtotal screen is a screen that displays the subtotal amount. The subtotal amount is, in the case of a retail store, the total amount of the goods purchased by the payer. The subtotal amount is, in the case of a facility store, the facility usage fee calculated according to the facility usage status of the payer. The operator who has confirmed the subtotal screen performs a closing operation. The closing operation is, for example, an operation of inputting the closing key on the keyboard 66.

[0058] The processor 61 that controls the display of the subtotal screen checks, as ACT12, whether the closing operation has been performed. If the closing operation has not been performed, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT12 and returns to ACT8. The processor 61 returns to the waiting states of ACT8 and ACT9. At this time, the screen of the display returns from the subtotal screen to the previous registration screen. Therefore, the operator can perform the registration operation again even after the subtotal operation.

[0059] When the closing operation is performed, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT12 and proceeds to ACT13. The processor 61, as ACT13, displays a payment method selection screen on the display 68. The payment method selection screen is a screen that accepts the selection input of the payment method. Examples of payment methods include cash, credit card, electronic money card, etc. The operator selects cash from the payment method selection screen if the payer wishes to pay in cash. The operator selects a credit card from the payment method selection screen if the payer wishes to pay by credit card. The operator selects electronic money from the payment method selection screen if the payer wishes to pay by electronic money.

[0060] The processor 61 that displays the payment method selection screen waits for a payment method to be selected as ACT21 in FIG. 5. Then, when any payment method is selected by a key operation or a touch operation on the payment method selection screen, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT21 and proceeds to ACT22. The processor 61 checks whether electronic money payment is selected as ACT22.

[0061] When a payment method other than electronic money is selected, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT22 and executes the first other process [Other process 1]. The first other process is a settlement process according to the selected payment method. For example, when cash payment is selected, the processor 61 executes a settlement process for a cash transaction that subtracts the total amount or the facility usage fee from the deposited amount. For example, when credit card payment is selected, the processor 61 executes a settlement process based on a credit transaction of the credit card read by the card reader 70. For example, in the case of code settlement using a barcode or a two-dimensional code, etc., the processor 61 executes a settlement process based on the code read by the scanner 67. Since these settlement processes are well-known processes in existing POS terminals, detailed descriptions here are omitted.

[0062] On the other hand, when electronic money payment is selected, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT22 and proceeds to ACT23. The processor 61 checks whether an electronic money ID is written in the storage area 122 as ACT23.

[0063] When the electronic money ID is not written in the storage area 122, the electronic money - attached point card read by the card reader 70 during the display of the initial screen is set not to cooperate with house - type electronic money, that is, a card with a cooperation flag of "0". The processor 61 determines NO in ACT23 and executes the second other process [Other process 2]. The second other process is, for example, a settlement process using transportation - type electronic money. Since this settlement process is a well - known process in existing POS terminals, detailed descriptions here are omitted.

[0064] When the electronic money ID is written in the memory area 122, the electronic money - attached point card read by the card reader 70 during the display of the initial screen is a card set to link the house - type electronic money, that is, a card with the link flag being "1". The processor 61 determines YES in ACT23 and proceeds to ACT24. The processor 61 displays an inquiry screen 80 (see FIG. 6) on the display 68 as ACT24.

[0065] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the inquiry screen 80. The inquiry screen 80 is a screen that displays a message 82 to the operator together with an OK button 81. The message 82 notifies the operator that when the payer pays the transaction amount with the electronic money of the electronic money - attached point card read during the display of the initial screen, the operator should input the OK button 81, and when the payer pays the transaction amount with the electronic money of another electronic money - attached point card, the operator should let the card reader 70 read the data of that point card.

[0066] The operator who has confirmed the message 82 inputs the OK button 81 when the payer pays the transaction amount with the electronic money of the point card read during the display of the initial screen. When the payer pays the transaction amount with the electronic money of another electronic money - attached point card, the operator lets the card reader 70 read the data of that electronic money - attached point card.

[0067] The processor 61 that has displayed the inquiry screen 80 checks whether the OK button 81 has been input as ACT25. If the OK button 81 has not been input, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT25 and proceeds to ACT26. The processor 61 checks whether card data has been read by the card reader 70 as ACT26. If the card data has not been read, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT26 and returns to ACT25. If the card data has been read, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT26 and proceeds to ACT27. The processor 61 checks whether the card data is data of an electronic money point card as ACT27. If the card data is not data of an electronic money point card, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT27 and returns to ACT25. Thus, the processor 61 that has displayed the inquiry screen 80 waits for the OK button 81 to be input or for the data of the electronic money point card to be read in ACT25 to ACT27. Here, the processor 61 operates as the waiting means 613 by the processing of ACT25 to ACT27.

[0068] When the OK button 81 is input in the waiting state of ACT25 to ACT27, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT25 and proceeds to ACT28. The processor 61 acquires the electronic money ID from the storage area 122 of the main memory 62 as ACT28. Then the processor 61 proceeds to ACT30. Here, the processor 61 operates as the second acquisition means 612 by the processing of ACT28.

[0069] When the data of the electronic money point card is read in the waiting state of ACT25 to ACT27, that is, when the type code of the data structure 21 indicates an electronic money point card, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT27 and proceeds to ACT29. The processor 61 acquires the electronic money ID of the data structure 21 as ACT29. Then the processor 61 proceeds to ACT30.

[0070] In this way, when the OK button 81 is input while the inquiry screen 80 is being displayed, the processor 61 acquires the electronic money ID from the storage area 122 of the main memory 62. When data of an electronic money - attached point card is read while the inquiry screen 80 is being displayed, the processor 61 acquires the electronic money ID from the point card.

[0071] The processor 61 that has acquired the electronic money ID acquires the balance of the electronic money as ACT30. Specifically, the processor 61 generates a balance inquiry command including the electronic money ID, and controls the communication interface 65 to transmit it to the electronic money server 50. By this control, the balance inquiry command is transmitted from the communication interface 65 to the electronic money server 50 via the communication network 30. The electronic money server 50 that has received the balance inquiry command searches the electronic money database 51, and acquires the balance of the electronic money from the electronic money record including the electronic money ID in the inquiry command. The electronic money server 50 returns a response command including the balance to the POS terminal 60 that is the source of the inquiry command. Thus, the processor 61 can acquire the balance of the electronic money from the electronic money server 50. The processor 61 stores the balance of the electronic money in the main memory 62.

[0072] The processor 61 that has acquired the balance of the electronic money executes the settlement process of the electronic money as ACT31. That is, the processor 61 subtracts the settlement amount from the balance of the electronic money. Then, the processor 61 generates a balance update command including the electronic money ID and the balance of the electronic money after subtracting the settlement amount, and controls the communication interface 65 to transmit it to the electronic money server 50. By this control, the balance update command is transmitted from the communication interface 65 to the electronic money server 50 via the communication network 30. The electronic money server 50 that has received the balance update command searches the electronic money database 51, and changes the balance of the electronic money record including the electronic money ID in the update command to the balance in the update command. Here, the processor 61 operates as a settlement means 614 through the processing of ACT30 and ACT31.

[0073] In addition, when the balance of the electronic money is insufficient for the settlement amount, the processor 61 regards the payment of the price by the electronic money as an error. In that case, the settler will pay the price by a payment method other than the electronic money.

[0074] After finishing the settlement process of the electronic money, the processor 61 executes a point addition process as ACT32. Specifically, the processor 61 calculates service points based on the settlement amount. Then, the processor 61 generates a point update command including the point ID stored in the storage area 121 and the service points, and controls the communication interface 65 to send it to the point server 40. By this control, the point update command is sent from the communication interface 65 to the point server 40 via the communication network 30. The point server 40 that has received the point update command searches the point database 41 and adds the service points in the point update command to the points of the point record including the point ID in the update command. Here, the processor 61 operates as a granting means 615 through the processing of ACT32.

[0075] After finishing the point addition process, the processor 61 controls the printer 69 as ACT33 to print a receipt. Also, the processor 61 displays a transaction completion screen on the display 68 as ACT34. The transaction completion screen is a screen that notifies the operator that the transaction has ended. Thus, the processor 61 finishes the transaction settlement process.

[0076] According to the POS terminal 60 in which the processor 61 operates as the first acquisition means 611, the second acquisition means 612, the waiting means 613, and the settlement means 614, the following operational effects can be achieved.

[0077] For example, there may be a case where two accompanying payers, each owning an electronic money - attached point card, want to add points to one electronic money - attached point card but pay with the other electronic money - attached point card. In this case, the operator first causes the card reader 70 to read the data of one electronic money - attached point card (the first medium 201). Thereby, the processor 61 operates as the first acquisition means 611.

[0078] Next, the operator performs a registration operation, a subtotal operation, and a closing operation. Since a payment method selection screen is displayed on the display 68 in response to the closing operation, the operator selects electronic money as the payment method. Then, an inquiry screen 80 is displayed on the display 68. That is, the processor 61 operates as the waiting means 613.

[0079] The operator causes the card reader 70 to read the data of the other electronic money - attached point card (the second medium 202) according to the message on the inquiry screen 80. Thereby, the processor 61 operates as the second acquisition means 612.

[0080] The processor 61 subtracts the settlement amount from the remaining balance of the electronic money specified by the electronic money ID of the other electronic money - attached point card. That is, the processor 61 operates as the settlement means 614.

[0081] Thus, according to the POS terminal 60 of the present embodiment, simply by causing the card reader 70 to read the data of an electronic money - attached point card other than the electronic money - attached point card for which the data was first read, in accordance with the message on the inquiry screen 80, the transaction can be settled with the electronic money of the other electronic money - attached point card.

[0082] In addition, the processor 61 operates as a granting means 615. That is, the processor 61 adds the service points granted in the current transaction to the accumulated points of the point service member identified by the membership ID of one of the electronic money - attached point cards. Therefore, the POS terminal 60 can satisfy the request of the payer who wants to grant points to one electronic money - attached point card but make the payment with the electronic money of the other electronic money - attached point card with a simple operation.

[0083] On the other hand, for the request of the payer who wants to grant points and make the payment with one electronic money - attached point card, the operator inputs the OK button 81 according to the message on the inquiry screen 80. Then, the processor 61 subtracts the payment amount from the balance of the electronic money identified by the electronic money ID of one of the electronic money - attached point cards. That is, the processor 61 operates as a settlement means 614. Also, the processor 61 adds the service points granted in the current transaction to the accumulated points of the point service member identified by the membership ID of one of the electronic money - attached point cards. That is, the processor 61 operates as a granting means 615.

[0084] In this way, for the request of the payer who wants to grant points and make the payment with one electronic money - attached point card, the POS terminal 60 can satisfy it with a simple operation of just inputting the OK button 81. There is no need to read the one electronic money - attached point card again. Therefore, according to the POS terminal 60, it is possible to achieve the effect of dealing with the payment by the electronic money - attached point card without complication, without impairing the versatility of the payment method.

[0085] Incidentally, the POS terminal 60 is equipped with a card reader 70 as a reading means for reading information from an electronic money - attached point card. And the first acquisition means 611 executed by the processor 61 acquires the member ID and the electronic money ID from the electronic money - attached point card read by the card reader 70 before the settlement of the transaction is instructed. The second acquisition means 612 acquires the electronic money ID from the electronic money - attached point card read by the card reader 70 after the settlement of the transaction is instructed. In this way, the POS terminal 60 can use one card reader 70 for the operations as the first acquisition means 611 and the second acquisition means. Therefore, it is easy for the operator to handle the electronic money - attached point card, and the POS terminal 60 is user - friendly.

[0086] Also, the waiting means 613 displays an OK button 81 on the display 68 which is a display unit as an operation button for instructing the use of the electronic money acquired by the first acquisition means 611. When the OK button 81 is operated, the POS terminal 60 determines that the use of the electronic money ID acquired by the first acquisition means 611 is instructed. On the other hand, when another electronic money - attached point card is read by the card reader 70, the POS terminal 60 determines to use the electronic money ID acquired from that electronic money - attached point card. Therefore, the operator may operate the OK button 81 at the timing when the OK button 81 is displayed on the display 68. Or the operator may let another electronic money - attached point card be read by the card reader 70. In this way, since no complicated operation is required of the operator, the POS terminal 60 is user - friendly also from this point.

[0087] As described above, the embodiments of the settlement device have been explained, but such embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in the above embodiment, as one aspect of the settlement device 10, the POS terminal 60 installed in the cashier's area of a retail store or a facility store was exemplified. The settlement device is not limited to this type of POS terminal 60. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a semi-self-service settlement device including a registration device having the function of the registration unit 15 and a settlement device having the function of the settlement unit 16, where the registration device is operated by a store clerk and the settlement device is operated by the customer himself / herself. In this case, the inquiry screen 80 is displayed on the touch panel of the settlement device. A customer who settles with the electronic money of the electronic money-added point card presented to the store clerk may touch the OK button 81 on the inquiry screen 80. Also, a customer who settles with the electronic money of another electronic money-added point card may have the settlement device read the electronic money-added point card with the card reader of the settlement device.

[0088] In addition, there is a semi-self-service or full-self-service settlement device in which the registration device is configured as a tablet terminal, attached to a shopping card, and when a customer purchases a product in the sales floor, the barcode or the like of the product is read by the scanner of the tablet terminal. Similarly, there is also a semi-self-service or full-self-service settlement device in which the registration device is configured as a smartphone and carried by the customer, and when the customer purchases a product in the sales floor, the barcode or the like of the product is photographed with the camera of the smartphone. The present invention can also be applied to such settlement devices.

[0089] In the above embodiment, the service provided by the providing means 615 is a point service. The type of service is not limited to the point service. For example, it may be a value discount service according to the transaction record. Also, it is not necessarily required to provide a service.

[0090] In the above embodiment, the medium 20 is an electronic money-added point card. The medium 20 does not necessarily have to be a card. The medium 20 may be an information terminal on which an application program capable of displaying a barcode or a two-dimensional data code including a member ID and an electronic money ID is installed.

[0091] The text data of the OK button 81 and the message 82 displayed on the inquiry screen 80 is not limited to that shown in the figure. Further, instead of the OK button 81, a message may be displayed to input a predetermined key on the keyboard 66.

[0092] The link flag may be deleted from the data structure 21 shown in FIG. 2. That is, a point member who has received an electronic money - attached point card may be restricted so that electronic money payment is always made with house - type electronic money.

[0093] In addition, although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and are included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalent scope. The invention described in the original claims of the present application is appended below. [1] A first acquisition means for acquiring identification information of a settler and settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler from information held by a first medium; a second acquisition means for acquiring the settlement information from information held by a second medium different from the first medium; a waiting means for waiting for an instruction to use the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means or for the second acquisition means to acquire the settlement information when the settlement of the transaction is instructed after the first acquisition means has acquired the identification information and the settlement information; and a settlement means for settling the transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means when the use of the settlement information is instructed, and for settling the transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the settlement information is acquired by the second acquisition means. A settlement device comprising the above. [2] A giving means for giving a service based on the settlement of the transaction to a settler identified by the identification information acquired by the first acquisition means. The settlement device according to appended [1], further comprising the above. [3] Further comprising a reading means for reading information from a medium, wherein the first acquisition means acquires the identification information of the settler and the settlement information from the information of the first medium read by the reading means before the settlement of the transaction is instructed, and the second acquisition means acquires the settlement information from the information of the second medium read by the reading means after the settlement of the transaction is instructed. The settlement device according to appended [1] or [2]. [4] The waiting means displays an operation button for instructing the use of the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means on a display unit, determines that the use of the settlement information is instructed when the operation button is operated, and determines to use the settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the information of the second medium is read by the reading means. The settlement device according to appended [3]. [5]A program for causing a computer of a settlement device to function as: a first acquisition means for acquiring, from information held by a first medium, identification information of a settler and settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler; a second acquisition means for acquiring the settlement information from information held by a second medium different from the first medium; a waiting means for waiting for whether use of the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means is instructed or for the second acquisition means to acquire the settlement information after the first acquisition means has acquired the identification information and the settlement information and the settlement of the transaction is instructed; and a settlement means for settling a transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means when use of the settlement information is instructed, and for settling a transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the second acquisition means has acquired the settlement information. [6]A settlement device including: a first acquisition means for acquiring, from information held by a first medium, identification information of a settler and settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler; and a second acquisition means for acquiring the settlement information from information held by a second medium different from the first medium, waits for whether use of the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means is instructed or for the second acquisition means to acquire the settlement information after the first acquisition means has acquired the identification information and the settlement information and the settlement of the transaction is instructed, settles a transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means when use of the settlement information is instructed, and settles a transaction with the settler using the settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the second acquisition means has acquired the settlement information.

Explanation of Signs

[0094] 10... Settlement device, 11... Reading unit, 12... Storage unit, 13... Input unit, 14... Display unit, 15... Registration unit, 16... Accounting unit, 17... Communication unit, 20... Medium, 30... Communication network, 40... Point server, 41... Point database, 50... Electronic money server, 51... Electronic money database, 60... POS terminal, 61... Processor, 62... Main memory, 63... Auxiliary storage device, 64... Clock, 65... Communication interface, 66... Keyboard, 67... Scanner, 68... Display, 69... Printer, 70... Card reader, 80... Inquiry screen, 81... OK button.

Claims

1. A first acquisition means for acquiring identification information of a settler and first settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler from information held by a first medium; A second acquisition means for acquiring second settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler from information held by a second medium different from the first medium; A waiting means for waiting for a command to use the first settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means or for the second acquisition means to acquire the second settlement information when settlement of the transaction is instructed after the identification information and the first settlement information are acquired by the first acquisition means; A settlement means for settling a transaction with the settler using the first settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means when a command to use the first settlement information is given, and for settling a transaction with the settler using the second settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the second settlement information is acquired by the second acquisition means; A settlement apparatus comprising the above.

2. A providing means for providing a service based on settlement of the transaction to a settler identified by the identification information acquired by the first acquisition means; The settlement apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the above.

3. A reading means for reading information from a medium; Further comprising the above, The first acquisition means acquires the identification information of the settler and the first settlement information from the information of the first medium read by the reading means before settlement of the transaction is instructed, The second acquisition means acquires the second settlement information from the information of the second medium read by the reading means after settlement of the transaction is instructed. The settlement apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The waiting means displays an operation button for commanding use of the first settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means on a display unit, determines that a command to use the first settlement information has been given when the operation button is operated, and determines to use the second settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when information of the second medium is read by the reading means. The settlement apparatus according to claim 3.

5. A computer of a settlement apparatus, A first acquisition means for acquiring identification information of a settler and first settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler from information held by a first medium; A second acquisition means for acquiring second settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler from information held by a second medium different from the first medium; When the settlement of the transaction is instructed after the first acquisition means has acquired the identification information and the first settlement information, a waiting means for waiting for an instruction to use the first settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means or for waiting for the second acquisition means to acquire the second settlement information, and a settlement means for settling the transaction with the settler using the first settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means when an instruction to use the first settlement information is given, and for settling the transaction with the settler using the second settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the second acquisition means has acquired the second settlement information, A program for causing it to function as such.

6. A settlement apparatus comprising: a first acquisition means for acquiring, from information held by a first medium, identification information of a settler and first settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler; and a second acquisition means for acquiring, from information held by a second medium different from the first medium, second settlement information used for settlement of a transaction with the settler, when the settlement of the transaction is instructed after the first acquisition means has acquired the identification information and the first settlement information, waits for an instruction to use the first settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means or for the second acquisition means to acquire the second settlement information, when an instruction to use the first settlement information is given, settles the transaction with the settler using the first settlement information acquired by the first acquisition means, A settlement method for settling a transaction with a settler using the second settlement information acquired by the second acquisition means when the second acquisition means has acquired the second settlement information.

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